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Irabor, Kyari Vow to Unmask Operators of Illegal Crude Oil Trunkline in Delta Sylvester Idowu in Warri The Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor and the Group Managing Director of the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC), Mr. Mele Kyari, have vowed to unmask the

saboteurs behind the illegal four-kilometre pipeline connected from Forcados terminal to the sea to siphon crude oil.

Both Irabor and Kyari made the vow at the weekend during a joint visit to the illegal loading port, which

is attached to the Trans Escravos pipeline at Yokre Flow Station in Ogulagha oil field in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State.

Tantita Security Services, operated by the ex-leader of the defunct Movement for the

Emancipation of Niger Delta (MEND), Chief Government Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo, last week discovered the illegal four-kilometre crude oil pipeline connected from Forcados terminal to the sea and operated for the past nine years.

General Irabor, while speaking with journalists after the visit to the area, said the federal government would ensure an extensive investigation into the revelation by Tantita Security Services owned by Tompolo.

"This is an eye-opener.

We are going to ensure an extensive investigation into the whole revelation to get to the roots to review the entire security architecture across the board amongst other issues," he said.

Continued on page 5

Economists Raise Concern over FG’s 2023 Spending Plan… Page 6 Sunday 9 October, 2022 Vol 27. No 10043

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INEC: We Have Ended Era of Election Rigging in Nigeria Says no one can vote twice again

Chuks Okocha in Abuja The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu,

yesterday declared that the commission has ended the era of election rigging in Nigeria.

He also vowed that henceforth, no eligible voter

can vote more than once in any election in the country.

The INEC chairman, who spoke at a seminar titled: ‘2023 and Beyond: Leadership, Politics, and

Citizens Engagement,’ organised by the St. James Anglican Church in Asokoro, Abuja, also said that the commission has been legally empowered to review any

election result declared under duress.

Yakubu who was represented by a deputy director, Voter Education, Chukwu Emeka Ogbuaja,

said the votes of Nigerians would count in the 2023 general election.

He said: "We, in INEC, Continued on page 5

APC Kicks as PDP Says Tinubu’s Emergence as Candidate Invalid Opposition party insists ruling party has no plan for Nigeria APC to inaugurate women campaign council Chuks Okocha and Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja The All Progressives Congress (APC) yesterday kicked against the claim by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) that the ruling party has no valid presidential candidate for the 2023 general election.

The National Publicity Secretary of PDP, Debo Ologunagba had asked the presidential candidate of the ruling party, Senator Bola Tinubu, to seek legal advice on the implications of last month’s court judgment that declared as nullity the tenure of Governor Mai Mala Buni as the chairman of the party’s national caretaker committee.

The main opposition party also urged Tinubu to account for the consequences and implications of the discrepancies in his academic qualifications and other controversies associated with him.

Also, as the APC plans to kick off its campaigns with the inauguration of its Women Presidential Campaign Team led by the First Lady, Mrs. Aisha Buhari, on Monday, the PDP Presidential Campaign Council has said the ruling party has no plan to better the lots of Nigerians.

Addressing a press conference in Abuja, the National Publicity Secretary of PDP, Ologunagba also urged Tinubu “to go home and face the issues of inconsistencies in his educational qualifications, name, ancestry, age as well as corruption allegations.”

"In any case, the APC candidate, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu has nothing to offer being the architect of the woes, calamities and life-discounting experiences faced by Nigerians in the last seven and half years," the PDP spokesman stated.

Olugunagba, who spoke on Continued on page 5

At Eid-el-Maulud, Buhari, Atiku, Lawan, Govs, Others Preach Peaceful Co-existence...Page10

CONGRATULATIONS… L-R: Governor of Massachusetts, United States of America, Deval Patrick; renowned author and activist, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie; and the presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Mr. Peter Obi, when Adichie and Patrick were honoured by Harvard University with the W.E.B. Du Bois Medal at the university in Massachusets, USA…recently

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WOMEN AFFAIRS… L-R: Wife of the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Oluremi Hamzat; Wife of the Head of Service, Mrs. Abisola Muri-Okunola; Chairman of the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO) and First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu; and Assistant Secretary of COWLSO, Mrs. Azeezat Tijani, during an awareness walk on the forthcoming COWLSO National Women’s Conference held at Lagos Island…yesterday

APC KICKS AS PDP SAYS TINUBU’S EMERGENCE AS CANDIDATE INVALID the consequences of the Federal High Court judgment on the tenure of the former interim chairman said, "as you are aware, the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja on Friday, September 30, 2022, nullified the candidature of Governor Gboyega Oyetola in the July 16, 2022, Osun State governorship election on the ground that his nomination was invalid, having been conducted and submitted

by Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State, in violation of Section

183 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended)”.

According to him, “the import of the September 30, 2022 judgment of the Federal High Court is that every decision made by Governor Mai Mala Buni as Chairman of the APC is null and void as you cannot place something on nothing and expect it to stand.”

"Consequently, the Congresses, as well as the National Convention which produced

INEC: WE HAVE ENDED ERA OF ELECTION RIGGING IN NIGERIA have a good message for all Nigerians. We have murdered and buried rigging in Nigeria.

Apart from that, no voter can afford to vote more than once in any election in Nigeria.

"Also, there will be no case of over voting again in any polling station. Voting will be based on BVAS and other electronic devices by INEC. "At the polling stations, the number of votes must be based on the number of voters accredited at the time of polling and not based on the number of registered voters. The number of accreditation at the polling station must tally with the number of actual voting.

If it exceeded by one vote, the entire process would be invalidated," the INEC chairman explained.

According to him, "the BVAS will ensure that the fingerprints tally with the facial recorded. The processes are so transparently configured that your finger and facial records are contained in the BVAS and thereafter, the results are uploaded to anyone that keys into the INEC portal anywhere in the world."

Yakubu vowed that political parties that engage in rigging will face the same experience witnessed in Edo, Ondo, Anambra, Ekiti and Osun state governorship elections.

“Nobody can rig any election. INEC has fortified its portal; People will elect the leader they leader want," he said.

He also vowed that the

commission would leave a legacy of a transparent election with the outcome of the 2023 general election.

He said to avoid a situation where any politician will hold its staff at a gunpoint to declare false results, that the commission is now empowered by the new electoral law to review any election result by any of its staff.

According to the INEC chairman, "Section 65 of the Act gives the Commission the power within seven days to review a declaration and return made where the commission determines that the said declaration and return was not made voluntarily or was made contrary to the provisions of the law, regulations and guidelines, and manual for the election.

"The commission will exercise this power responsibly based on the provisions of the Constitution, the Electoral Act and its Regulations and Guidelines," he explained.

The chairman of the occasion, Ambassador Godknows Igali explained that Nigerians as a sovereign state has citizens who have a major role in building the nation, adding that the Church must discuss politics and how it is governed.

He urged Christians not to shy away from politics and good governance as that is where issues affecting all are discussed and policies implemented.

APC Excos including the Senator Adamu Abdullahi-led NWC, is void", the PDP spokesman said.

He argued that the primaries and presidential convention conducted by the Abdullahi-led NWC, including the nomination of Tinubu as the presidential candidate of the APC “is invalid, null and void ab initio.”

Ologunagba said that the APC had become prostrate, handicapped and incapacitated to campaign as it has no valid candidate for the 2023 general election.

He urged Nigerians to recall that the PDP had on February 22, 2022, and March 8, 2022, raised the alarm that with its foisting of an illegal and unconstitutional leadership, the APC had become “legally defunct, structurally crippled and no longer a legitimate and valid vehicle to field candidates for elections under our laws.”

He announced that the PDP would officially flag off its 2023 presidential election campaign on Monday, October 10, 2022, in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State capital.

He said from the party’s consultations across the six geopolitical zones of the country, it is clear that Nigerians across the board, irrespective of religion, ethnicity and even political affiliations accept the PDP presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar as the best candidate with the practical experience,

capacity, broad-mindedness and willpower to unite the country.

Meanwhile, the PDP Presidential Campaign Council has said the ruling party had no plan to better the lots of Nigerians.

It said in the past seven years, the ruling party had continued to mismanage the nation’s diversity, economy, education, and security architecture.

Reacting, the APC dismissed Ologunagba’s statement, saying he should seek clarification.

APC National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, stated that the Federal High Court judgment was flawed.

Morka said, “I am confident that the decision will not pass appellate court’s scrutiny. For one, the decision flies in the face of a valid and subsisting majority Supreme Court decision in Akeredolu’s case which settled the question as to the validity of Mai Mala Buni Caretaker Committee.

“In any event, that committee was duly constituted by the NEC of the APC and everything done by the caretaker committee was duly ratified by the national convention, the highest decisionmaking organ of the party.

Clearly, we stand on strong legal ground and are unperturbed by that decision.”

Also, speaking yesterday on the "Morning Show," a programme on ARISE NEWS

Channel, a spokesman of the PDP Presidential Campaign Council, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, said the party’s presidential candidate, Atiku, would energise the country's private sector to drive the nation’s economy to provide jobs for the people.

While reacting to allegations by the Minister of Information, Mr. Lai Mohammed that the PDP copied from what the APC was doing, Aniagwu said the APC had no single plan to copy from, adding that Atiku had long prepared his policy document titled "My Covenant With Nigerians".

According to him, the APC has no single plan to develop the country.

"If they had a plan, Nigeria would not be where we are today, because they would have known that it was important to manage our diversity so that everybody is well taken care of.

"Nigerians helped them to power in 2015 and they left them behind after failing to fulfil all their campaign promises.

"Atiku's plan for Nigeria is generic and it is resting on the fact that our presidential candidate and his running mate, Governor Ifeanyi Okowa understand what the issues are.

"Atiku didn't just wake up to declare for president; he has been preparing for this over time and he is adequately apprised with what it takes to indeed rescue

and rebuild Nigeria," he said.

Aniagwu who is also Delta State Commissioner for Information said only Atiku was prepared to lead as other candidates weren't ready with their plans.

"Each time you ask other presidential candidates they will tell you that they will soon come up with their manifesto and that tells you that they are not prepared for the task ahead.

"Nigeria is currently at an intensive care unit and does not require a leader who is not adequately prepared to lead her out of its present challenges," Aniagwu added.

In a related development, the APC will on Monday kick off its campaigns with the inauguration of the APC Women Presidential Campaign Team.

First Lady, Aisha Buhari, was last week announced as the grand patron of the women’s wing of the Tinubu/Shettima Presidential Campaign Team.

The wife of the presidential candidate, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, and the wife of the vice presidential candidate, Nana Shettima, will serve as chairman and co-Chairman, respectively.

The organising committee of the Tinubu/Shettima Women Presidential Campaign Team said the formal inauguration of members of its various committees would be held at the Presidential Villa.

IRABOR, KYARI VOW TO UNMASK OPERATORS OF ILLEGAL CRUDE OIL TRUNKLINE IN DELTA Kyari, on his part, also pledged that an extensive investigation would be conducted into the illegal trunkline, noting that anyone that is involved would be dealt with according to the law.

He said the pipeline was uncovered during a clampdown on crude oil theft in the past six weeks by Tantita Security Services, vowing that the perpetrators would be identified and sanctioned according to the provisions of the law.

Kyari lamented that oil theft in the country has been going on for over 22 years but noted that the dimension and rate it assumed in recent times is unprecedented.

"That is why the Chief of

Defence Staff has said very clearly that an extensive investigation will be conducted.

“Anyone involved in this matter, either from the host community, community contractors, government security agencies, or workers of the oil companies including NNPC and Shell, will be dealt with.

“The illegal attachments on the Trans Escravos pipeline are professionally done and the result is that they connected this to an inactive pipeline which should not carry crude in a normal instance.

“And we have seen that this line flows all the way parallel to the two other active Trans Escravos pipelines. And this

is a good revelation,” Kyari added.

The duo noted that preliminary investigations have shown that the illegal pipeline led to an illegal loading point in the creeks where large volumes of crude oil are illegally being diverted and stolen.

Chief Executive of Tantita Security Services, Chief Keston Pondi, who conducted the CDS and NNPC boss around the site, said from observations, the illegal business had been on for a very long time.

“To get to this level is not easy. We were hinted about the two illegal attachments that were foiled. We are still escalating. We are combing this lineup with Ogidigben

to Madaho.

“This particular one inspected by the NNPC CEO team is located at Yokre Flow Station. Only God knows how many more points we are going to see as we go further. As of this moment, we have discovered 15 points so far. The identified 15 points were attached to the Trans Escravos pipeline at different locations,” he added.

“It is obvious that a lot of people are complicit in these illegal oil activities. Whether it is in the security sector, host communities, even in the oil industry, if you know that you have been involved and nobody is doing anything about it, this is the time to evacuate,” he said.

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TRADITIONAL HARMONY… L-R: Wife of the Olofin of Ilishan, Olori Folashade Sonuga; Olofin of Ilishan-Remo, Oba Mojeed Sonuga; Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun; his wife, Bamidele; and Chairman, Adron Homes and Property Limited, Chief Adetola Emmanuel-King, at the grand finale of the 45th Isanbi Day celebration at Ilishan-Remo in Ikenne Local Government Area of Ogun State…yesterday

Economists Raise Concern over FG’s 2023 Spending Plan Fault use of debt to finance deficit budget Festus Akanbi, Gboyega Akinsanmi, Dike Onwuamaeze in Lagos and James Emejo in Abuja Following the presentation of a N20.51 trillion appropriation bill for 2023 to a joint session of the National Assembly in Abuja on Friday, some economists have raised concerns over the proposed spending plan given current revenue challenges in the country.

Reacting to the proposal, the Chief Executive Officer of Economic Associates, Dr. Ayo Teriba; Chief Executive Officer of the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE), Dr. Muda Yusuf; Group Executive Director of Cordros Capital, Mr. Olufemi Ademola and analysts from Cowry Asset Management Limited called for a departure from the use of debt to finance the budget deficit.

They proposed ways out of the budget problems, including the use of equity to finance the deficit, saying Nigeria got to the current deficit level because of reliance on the use of debt to finance deficits in the past.

On his part, Teriba faulted the government’s plan to use debt to finance the deficit, which he blamed for the nation’s current

woes.

He noted that because of the ambitious layout of the budget, the worry is how to get N10 trillion in revenue in 2023.

According to him, “The overall spending proposal is a lofty N20.51 trillion but the non-debt spending is a more sobering N14.21 trillion once you deduct the proposed N6.3 trillion interest payments from the overall spending plan. So, we do not have a N20.51 trillion spending plan on the table.

We only have a N14.21 trillion spending plan.

“The proposed revenue of N9.73 trillion does not reflect our peak revenue performance of N6trillion in 2021. It is unlikely that we are going to get that N6 trillion in 2022, as we reported only 1.6 trillion in the first four months. How we are projecting N9.73 trillion in revenue in 2023 is therefore a mystery. Even if we are lucky enough to generate the N9.73 trillion, you must discount the N6.3 trillion projected interest payments out of it to leave us with a N3.43 trillion net revenue against the N14.21 trillion nondebt spending. This explains why the President is proposing a deficit of N10.78 trillion.”

Speaking on options available to the federal government, Teriba

said “Our approach should not be to continue issuing only debt, especially with the increasingly unbearable burden of interest payments that exposes our fiscal vulnerability. Massive equity financing is the choice we should all urge the Federal Government to consider now.

Nigeria should henceforth use equity financing as an exclusive way of funding budget deficits.

If we embrace equity financing, we do not have to make huge interest payments, and we can use some of the proceeds of our equity issuance to pay some of the down debt, make the fiscal situation more sustainable and rekindle much-needed confidence in our economic and fiscal resilience,” he said.

Also reacting, the Chief Executive Officer of the CPPE, Yusuf said the 2023 federal government budget has further amplified the troubling fiscal outlook for the economy, noting that expenditure continues to accelerate amid consistent weak revenue performance.

He cautioned the government against excessive borrowing, which he said may trigger an acceleration of fiscal deficit as revenue declines.

Yusuf said several issues should be addressed to achieve our fiscal

Air Peace Resumes Flights to Johannesburg Today Chinedu Eze Nigeria’s major carrier, Air Peace, yesterday announced that it would today resume flights to Johannesburg, South Africa, two months after it suspended service due to high cost of operation.

The airline in a statement, said that it would resume flights from October 9, 2022.

“This is to inform the flying public that our Johannesburg service resumes on Sunday, October 9, 2022. The schedules are now live on our website/ mobile app, and you can now book your flights to South Africa.

We look forward to having you on board,” Air Peace said.

Nigeria’s biggest operator decided to suspend flights to

Johannesburg early August 2022 when it couldn’t cope with the high cost of aviation fuel and low passenger traffic due to the failure of the South African Embassy in Nigeria to issue visas to Nigerians who were willing to travel to the country.

The airline noted that the high cost and scarcity of aviation fuel, known as Jet A1, forced it to suspend its Lagos-Johannesburg flight operations.

The airline explained then that due to the turbulent times the aviation industry was experiencing with Jet A1 fuel price increase, scarcity of forex and a delay in visa issuance for South African travel passengers, it had to stop the service.

There are indications that

the airline decided to resume service, especially now that the Christmas season approaches, as many Nigerians would like to return to their fatherland.

Aviation experts have commended Air Peace for its decision to return to Johannesburg in order to tame the cut-throat fares introduced on that route since its withdrawal.

“Air Peace’s resumption of flights to Johannesburg will help bring down the fare, which to me is exploitative because there is only one direct flight from Nigeria. Now, the route is going to be competitive and it will be to the benefits of travellers,” one industry stakeholder told THISDAY.

sustainability aspiration.

He said, for instance, government-owned enterprises managing huge economic assets should justify the value of assets at their disposal.

Yusuf, who was a former Director-general of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) said oil revenue performance should be much better given the prevailing global oil price. He said that lapses in the petroleum upstream ecosystem should be urgently addressed.

On his part, the Group Executive Director of Cordros Capital, Ademola said given the present revenue realities, there is a need for the government to slow down in the area of infrastructure spending.

He said Nigeria doesn’t have access to the needed fund locally, noting however that the increasing debt servicing is part of the current problems facing the proposed budget.

According to the Financial Advisory firm, Cowry Asset Management, Nigeria requires a huge outlay of financial resources to drive all-inclusive growth.

In a position paper on the 2023 budget proposal, the asset management firm said, “A look at Nigeria’s revenue generation power over the years has shown how important it is to cut the cost of governance as it plans to introduce the payroll system in the area of personnel cost as means to monitor ghost workers.”

Also, Cordros Capital, another financial management firm believed that given that the external financing conditions are unfavourable, it implies that much of the deficit financing would be channelled towards the domestic debt market amid an increased reliance on the CBN’s Ways and Means (W&M) advance.

Further reacting to the 2023 budget proposal, renowned economist/Chairman, Chartered

Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), Abuja Branch, Prof. Uche Uwaleke, described the oil price benchmark of $70 as conservative in line with budget principles.

Uwaleke, however, expressed worry that capital expenditure as a proportion of total spending had gone down below the government target of 30 per cent while debt service at over N6 trillion is more than the amount budgeted for capital expenditure.

The former Imo State commissioner of finance, also said the fiscal deficit of over N10 trillion could be trimmed especially by pruning down the over N1 trillion overhead costs.

"As the president rightly noted, the greatest threat to budget performance is the revenue side.

This is why every effort must be made to improve revenue collection efficiency as well as monitor closely the MDAs and government independent revenues."

Soludo Mourns as 76 Persons are Declared Missing in Anambra Boat Mishap David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka Anambra State governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, has condoled the families of persons involved in a boat mishap that occurred in Umunnankwo Community in Ogbaru Local Government Area of the state.

About 76 persons were reported missing in a boat mishap that occurred in the riverine LGA of the state.

The incident, according to the chairman of the Transition Committee of the local government area, Hon. Pascal Aniegbuna happened on Friday, October 7, 2022, in the Umunnankwo community.

The ill-fated boat said to be carrying about 85 persons on board, was said to have taken off from Onukwu Bridge and was heading to Nkwo market, Ogbakuba when capsized.

THISDAY gathered that about 76 persons were unaccounted

for, after a rescue operation.

Soludo's condolence message to the families of the victims, which was signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Christian Aburime, described the accident as a shock.

Aburime said: "This development is still a shock to the government and good people of Anambra State. I sympathise with the families of people involved."

He said Soludo sent several interventions to the people of the flood-ravaged area, who have all relocated to IDP camps for safety.

He promised that the state government would continue to do its best to reduce the negative effects of the flood disaster in the state.

Meanwhile, a former member of the House of Representatives, who represented the Ogbaru federal constituency, Hon. Victor Afam Ogene, in a swift reaction to the incident, has expressed

shock and deep sorrow.

Ogene, who is the Labour Party candidate for the Ogbaru Federal Constituency in the 2023 elections, lamented that Ogbaru was devastated, saying: “I am in shock over the horrendous boat accident that took the precious lives of some of its sons and daughters.”

He said further: “This sad news of this terrible accident is numbing and painful to me as a person and must be very devastating, especially to the immediate families of the victims. This is a collective loss for Ogbaru as a whole and we are united in sorrow.

“My condolences go to the affected families and also Ogbaru people and communities, who have in recent times found themselves in the jaws of severe flood disaster that has practically submerged all our communities and displaced thousands of people.”

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RECEIVING ROYAL BLESSING… L-R: Governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress in Cross River State, Senator Bassey Otu; Obong of Calabar, Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu II; and the deputy governorship candidate, Hon. Peter Odey, during a thank-you visit to the monarch’s palace in Calabar…recently

We Have Spent $100m Feeding 10m Pupils, Says FG Onyebuichi Ezigbo in Abuja The federal government said it spent about $100 million in feeding 10 million pupils under the National School Feeding Programme.

This was part of efforts to eliminate the scourge of child labour in the country.

The Minister of Labour and

Employment, Dr. Chris Ngige, said this when he received the United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Mary Leonard and officials of the Department of State, on a courtesy visit at the weekend in Abuja.

This is contained in a statement issued by the Head of Press and Public Relations in the ministry, Olajide Oshundun.

Illegal Medicine Shops Risk N2m Fine, Says PCN Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja The Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) has said that illegal operators of pharmacy shops and patent medicine outlets across the country will henceforth be made to pay a N2 million fine.

It said that 110 persons have so far been arrested this year and are facing various charges for violation of pharmacy regulatory laws of the country.

Registrar of the PCN, Mr. BabaShehu Ahmed, disclosed this at the weekend in Abuja while briefing journalists on the implications of the new PCN Establishment Act (2022) assented to by President Muhammadu Buhari.

Part of the changes introduced in the new PCN law is the upward review of fines for offenders, which was increased from N250,000 to N2 million.

While responding to questions on the performance of the council, with regards to its enforcement of compliance to standards and laid down practices in the sector, Ahmed said that a lot of impacts has been made to ensure that people respect the set rules.

He said that so far the PCN enforcement team has visited a total of 27,262 facilities across the country.

He said: "Out of this number, we have closed down a total of 19,059. From among these, 1,780 were places operating illegally as pharmaceutical premises.

"Also 16,502 are patent medicine shops. Over this period, a total of 110 persons were arrested and are at various stages of prosecution. In the last quarter we have carried out enforcement in Oyo, Ogun states and are currently in Kogi State,” he explained.

Ahmed also said a total of 57 pharmacies were sealed in Oyo State, while 335 patent medicine shops were sealed, another 25 pharmacies were shut down in Ogun State during the team's inspection and 317 Patent Medicine shops closed down.

According to the PCN Registrar, enforcement activities began after a proposal to set up an Enforcement Department in the Council was approved by the Head of Service of the Federation in 2018.

He also spoke on the new powers given to his office under the new PCN law, among which is the power to withdraw the operating licence of any defaulting pharmacy outlets.

In this regard, Ahmed said that it would enable the council to have an effective grip on the activities of pharmacy shops and ensure that they play according to the rules.

Chairman of the Board of the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN), Prof. Ahmed Tijani Mora, described the new Act as very apt as it came at a time when there was a clamour for adherence to global best practices.

Speaking on the aspect of the new PCN Act that granted stiffer penalties for defaulters, Mora said that the intention is not punitive but to act as a corrective measure that will sanitise the profession.

"The Council is a regulatory agency. We are not a profit-making organisation and we are corrective, not punitive. In every organisation, we have deviants and that is why we have investigative panels and disciplinary tribunals to ensure that those deviants are brought to book.

"So, the fines are meant to act as a deterrent; so, people will not fall short of the minimum standard expected from them. We are dealing with drugs and this is because the issue is about life and death and a manufacturer of the wrong medication can kill hundreds of people at once. We have zero tolerance when it comes to the quality of drugs in the market,” he explained.

While explaining the role of PCN in drug production and distribution in the country, Mora said that both NAFDAC and PCN are required to undertake separate inspections of drug manufacturing facilities to ensure strict compliance with standards.

Ngige said that the Nigerian government had introduced the school feeding programme under its social security programme, to lure children engaged in child labour, back to school.

He said the federal government also introduced social protection programmes to fight poverty, which is the major contributory factor to the prevalence of child labour in Nigeria.

According to him, “we have introduced the national school feeding programme under our social security, to lure children back to school.

“As of today, we are feeding 10 million children across the country. We have spent nearly $100 million on this.

“We have also taken more schools into the areas prone to child labour and made education free in the whole country through the Universal Basic Education (UBE) and the Child Rights Acts.

“For the people with disability, we introduced Disability Peoples

Commission, to give them full and comprehensive aid.

“This is so that they will not feel that they have any disability.

If you don’t support someone with a disability, it is outright poverty,’’ he said.

The minister commended the US Government for the recent technical assistance of the Department of Labour to West Africa.

He said that this was in the area of fighting violence and harassment in the workplace under Convention 190 of the International Labour Organisation (ILO).

“Nigeria and Liberia are listed there and the fund is $5 million, estimated to be spent on the project. We think that it is a step in the right direction.

“Just last week, we got information of another $4 million for anti-child labour activities in Nigeria.

“Ondo State was chosen as the pilot state for the fight against

child labour in the area of cocoa farming. We think this is a good step in the right direction.

“Because over the years, from the time we visited for African Growth and Opportunities conference under the Department of Labour and Trade in Washington in 2017, we had made it clear that the US Government has to take practical steps for us to follow,” he said.

Ngige added, “we can’t be mouthing child labour and we leave it unattended to when we know that most of those engaged in it are those trying to make up for family needs.”

The minister also said that vulnerable families send their underage children to work in cocoa farms, mining sites, street hawking and petty trading.

“This is because the family income is not enough, owing to underemployment or unemployment,’’ he said.

The minister explained that advocacy alone cannot reduce

the scourge, adding, “it would be difficult to retain the audience of a hungry person.”

Ngige reiterated his proposal at the AGOA conference, urging the United States to assist Nigeria in fighting child labour in the area of capacity building and logistics, among others.

Earlier, Leonard said the US Government was worried to see that Nigerian children were subjected to the worst forms of child labour in quarries, granite and other mining sites.

She promised that her country would continue to work with the Nigerian government in addressing the scourge and appealed to the remaining seven states yet to domesticate the Child Rights Act to do so without further delay.

The Envoy said, ”the US government was pleased to see a new programme in Nigeria that provides seed capital to vulnerable people to pursue programmes in areas with a high prevalence of child labour.”

Buhari, Atiku, PDP, Others Mourn Former PDP National Chairman, Ogbulafor Deji Elumoye, Chuks Okocha, Sunday Aborisade in Abuja, and Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt President Muhammadu Buhari; former Vice President and presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar; Delta State Governor and vice-presidential candidate of PDP, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa; Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State; former National Chairman of the PDP, Prince Uche Secondus; former Governor of Abia State and Chief Whip of the Senate, Senator Orji Kalu and the former Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Chimaroke Nnamani, have expressed sadness over the passing of a former National Chairman of the party, Chief Vincent Ogbulafor.

The PDP also said it is griefstrickened over the death of one of its founding members.

Ogbulafor, the pioneer National Secretary and later, National Chairman of the party, was said to have died on Friday in a hospital in Canada at the age at 73. He was also a former Minister of Special Duties.

President Buhari in a statement yesterday by his spokesman, Mallam Garba Shehu, condoled

with the Ogbulafor’s family, leaders and members of the PDP, the Olokoro Royal family in Umuahia, and the Government and people of Abia State over his demise.

The president believed the former national chairman would be remembered for his role in the nation’s democratic growth.

Atiku has also expressed shock and sadness over the passing of Ogbulafor, saying he “was my friend and colleague from the early days of our great party, the PDP; a platform with which we won the presidential election of 1999 and 2003 and formed the federal cabinet from 1999 to 2003; a government in which we worked together to reform Nigeria’s economy after many years of military plundering. As a minister of State of the Federal Republic, he contributed his quote with open mind in the economic reforms process that we embarked on", Atiku said.

On his part, Okowa in a condolence message by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Olisa Ifeajika, expressed sadness over the death of the erstwhile party boss and commiserated with the members of his family and the people of Olokoro in Umuahia South Local Government Area

of Abia State.

He said that Ogbulafor would be remembered for his outstanding contributions to the growth of the party, especially during its formative years.

In his condolence message to Governor Ikpeazu, the Ogbulafor family and the people of Abia State, Wike described the death of Ogbulafor as a grievous loss that will leave a particularly broad void in the ranks of genuine lovers of the PDP. While commiserating with the government and people of Abia State, Kalu stressed that the late politician contributed to the growth and sustenance of democracy in Nigeria, having served in various capacities in the political space.

On his part, Nnamani while lamenting demise of Ogbulafor, said he was a good administrator and consummate politician who contributed to the growth of the party.

Senator Nnamani said: “With Ogbulafor’s death, the PDP has lost a strong pillar and a committed party man. His exit has created a huge vacuum “.

Similarly, Secondus also expressed shock at the news of the death of Ogbulafor.

He described him as a great

patriot who made significant contributions to the development of democracy in the country through his selfless service to the PDP and the nation.

In a statement from his media office, Secondus said that Ogbulafor’s wise counsel would be greatly missed especially at this time of electioneering.

Meanwhile, the PDP has said it is grief-stricken over the death of Ogbulafor.

In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, the party said Ogbulafor was an exceptionally patriotic leader, a detribalised Nigerian and quintessential democrat who dedicated his skills, resources and energies in selfless service towards the unity, stability, democratic advancement and economic development of our nation.

He said: "As the National Secretary of the PDP, Prince Ogbulafor played key roles alongside others leaders of our Party in laying a solid foundation for effective Party management and administration as well as development and implementation of our robust policy guidelines that led to key accomplishments of successive PDP administrations in the country.

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NEWS

HONOURING A FRIEND… L-R: Chairman, His Breath Cosmetics, Mr. Onyebuchi Okoye; Chairman, Ekulo Group of Companies, Chief Emma Bishop Okonkwo; and his wife, Ngozi, at Okoye’s baby dedication in Festac, Lagos…recently

At Eid-el-Maulud, Buhari, Atiku, Lawan, Govs, Others Preach Peaceful Co-existence Sanwo-Olu tasks religious leaders on electoral violence

Deji Elumoye in Abuja President Muhammadu Buhari; presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar; Senate President, Dr. Ahmad Lawan; presidential candidate of All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Bola Tinubu; Delta State Governor and vice presidential candidate of the PDP, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa; Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki; and Kwara State Governor, Abdularahman AbdulRazaq, have urged Nigerians to learn the virtue of patience even in the face of provocation, and peacefully co-exist with people of other faiths, just like Prophet Muhammad lived in his time.

The leaders made the appeal in their goodwill messages to Muslims on the occasion of Eid-el-Maulud, to celebrate the birthday of Prophet Muhammad.

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has also appealed to religious leaders to educate people on the importance of shunning electoral violence and other acts that are inimical to democracy.

Buhari explained that Prophet became famous for his life of humility, justice and fairness,” adding that demonstrated “a remarkable life of patience under provocation and honoured treaties with non-Muslims for peaceful coexistence.”

He, however, urged Muslims to “practise the noble and shining virtues of the Prophet”, saying that “the best way to honour him is to follow his good examples.”

President’s spokesman Malam Garba Shehu, in a statement in Abuja, quoted the Buhari as saying, “The Prophet attracted people to Islam through personal examples of honesty, trustworthiness, justice, patience and tolerance.”

The president explained that “the prophet became famous for his life of humility, justice and fairness,” explaining that the Prophet demonstrated “a remarkable life of patience under

provocation and honoured treaties with non-Muslims for peaceful coexistence.”

On his part, Atiku felicitated with Nigerians on the commemoration of the birthday of the holy Prophet Muhammed.

He said as Nigerians are on the threshold of a historic decision that will shape their future, they should join hands in the task to rescue, unify, reposition and build the country irrespective of faith, creed, tribe or political affiliation.

In his message, the Senate President, Lawan, in a statement by his Special Adviser (Media), Ola Awoniyi, in Abuja, enjoined Muslim faithful to use the occasion for deep reflection on the virtuous life of Prophet Mohammed and the message of peace, love, tolerance, humility, fairness and justice which he preached in words and deeds.

He urged politicians, in this season of elections, to avoid using expletives and cuss words, and to avoid the unwanted culture of demeaning and humiliating opponents.

Also, Tinubu in a statement by his Media Office, urged the Muslim faithful to extend love and goodness to one another and imbibe the virtues of Prophet Muhammed (SAW), which include tolerance, forgiveness, peaceful coexistence and sacrifice.

He asked Muslim Ummah and others to offer prayers for the country to overcome its present challenges.

Tinubu reiterated his sympathy for victims of the recent flooding in Kogi, Edo and Nasarawa states.

On his part, Okowa urged Muslims to embrace peace and love and share the same among fellow citizens as the country prepares for general elections in 2023.

In the felicitations contained in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Olisa Ifeajika, Okowa urged Muslims to pray particularly for a peaceful and united Nigeria.

In his message, Obaseki, in a statement, urged Muslims in the state to use the occasion

of the celebration to pray for the success of the 2023 general elections.

Similarly, the Kwara State Governor, AbdulRazaq, called on the Muslim faithful to rededicate themselves to the commandments of Allah, including shunning all kinds of mischief which might disrupt public peace and human brotherhood.

The governor, while addressing a large gathering of Muslim Community, who

converged on the Kwara State Stadium, Ilorin, congratulated them on the birth anniversary of the Prophet Muhammad, urging the faithful to emulate the great examples and legacies of the prophet.

Sanwo-Olu Urges Religious Leaders to Preach against Electoral Violence Meanwhile, ahead of the 2023 general election, Governor

Sanwo-Olu has urged religious leaders to educate people on the importance of shunning electoral violence and other acts that are inimical to democracy.

He advised the 5th edition of the Greater Nigeria Project conference of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) held at the weekend at the Vineyard Christian Ministries, Ajao Estate, Lagos.

The conference is aimed at reviving and strengthening the Pentecostal body for a

more effective leadership role in these end times.

Sanwo-Olu during the conference announced a donation of N25million for the ongoing building project of the secretariat of the Lagos State Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria.

“I also call on us as clerics and Christian leaders to educate our people on the importance of shunning electoral violence and other acts that are inimical to democracy,” Sanwo-Olu said.

Kogi Vigilantes Inflicted Enormous Damage on Us, Dangote Cement Cries Out Firm plans to cause chaos, state govt alleges Ejiofor Alike in Lagos and Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja There is no end in sight to the tussle over the ownership of Obajana Cement in Kogi State as Dangote Cement Plc yesterday cried out over the destruction of the company’s assets, and the gunshot injuries inflicted on its workers by the agents of the state government.

The company in a statement listed the damage it suffered from the invasion of its cement plant by what those he described as Governor Yahaya Bello’s extrajudicial forces popularly referred to as ‘Government Vigilantes or Government Hunters.’

But the state government alleged yesterday that it had uncovered plans by the cement company to cause chaos in the state.

The state government and the company have been at loggerheads following the government’s move to seal off the Obajana Cement Plant.

According to the statement issued by Dangote Cement Plc, over 500 Kogi State Government vigilantes invaded its plant located at Obajana on Wednesday at the behest of the state governor and forcefully

shut down its operations.

The company, which provided some pictures of the damaged facilities and injured workers, further alleged that cement trucks were also burnt, and many others were vandalised, as they forcefully hijacked Dangote buses and vans.

“Market and business activities have been brought to a standstill since the attack was launched. No fewer than 27 Dangote staff are currently in bad condition after they were shot at by the invaders,” the company explained.

The statement added that control rooms were forcefully shut down while equipment whose monetary value has not been computed was vandalised.

“Communication cords were also severed to bring production to an abrupt halt.

The marauding invaders also blocked the roads, distorted vehicular movement, and restricted the movement of people all around Obajana.

“Since the criminal attack, our vehicles carrying diesel have been attacked along Anyigba road,” the statement added.

The company explained that the victims of the state government-sanctioned invasion

are currently admitted to the emergency section of the Kogi State Specialists Hospital in Lokoja.

According to the statement, 45-year-old Tijani Mukhtari, who was shot several times in the lower abdomen and other parts by the invading government’s thugs, is currently battling for his life and is slated for emergency surgery to remove the bullets lodged in his body.

The statement also disclosed that 43-year-old Aminu Sarki, a fleet officer at the Transport Section of the Dangote Cement Plant, was shot in the leg.

It quoted a 21-year-old Isyaku Adamu, who was also shot, as describing the invasion as barbaric and nasty.

However, in a statement obtained by THISDAY last night, the state Commissioner for Information, Kingsley Fanwo, accused the company of resolving to fight the state government by altering the agreement papers.

Fanwo said the company was also planning to deploy the media against the state government and initiate legal proceedings against certain government officials.

“A top management staff of

Dangote Group erroneously called a top government official as the meeting was going on to hatch their satanic plans against the government and people of Kogi State,” the statement alleged.

“The call which came in at 10:06 pm went on for 28 minutes, 12 seconds, detailing how they intend to doctor documents to prove they own the cement company 100 per cent; how they intend to use the DSS and other security agencies to arrest top government officials on frivolous charges; how they intend to use the EFCC to arrest some government officials to cow them down; how they also intend to use the media to promote falsehood against the government and people of Kogi State and sundry other satanic plans against the people and government of our dear state”.

The state government threatened to release visuals and audio of the said meeting to support its claim.

The Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Folashade Ayoade, had earlier announced the commencement of the process to recover the Obajana Cement Plant from the Dangote Group.

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THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 9, 2022

SUNDAY INTERVIEW

Ikpeazu

OKEZIE IKPEAZU:

The Greatest Need of Nigerians Today is Inclusiveness Since assuming office in 2015, Abia State Governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, had chosen to remain extremely reticent. But not anymore as his tenure winds down in May 2023. He opened up to journalists on various issues including why five governors of the Peoples Democratic Party are at war with the party’s presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, the performance of the All Progressives Congress-led federal government, why he is the best candidate to represent Abia South in the Senate, how he arrived at the choice of his successor, and what he has done in office in the past seven years to move the state forward. Vanessa Obioha brings excerpts:

Y

ouandafewPDPgovernorswereconspicuously absent at the launch of Atiku campaign. What happened? Is it an extension of the ongoing battle between you and your presidential candidate?

There is no battle between the presidential candidate and I. He is my presidential candidate.

I don’t have any other candidate but at times, when one gets to a certain point in life, and a vehicle is put down for a journey, every NLG ZLOO MXPS DW WKDW RͿHU :KDW LI D PDWXUH PDQ DVNHG DERXW the destination of the vehicle? That is the question I am asking. I DP D 6RXWK HDVWHUQHU , DP DQ ,JER PDQ :H KDYH EHHQ IDLWKIXO apologists of the PDP since 1999 and needed to ask a question.

The greatest need of Nigerians today is inclusiveness. Can we be sensitive to the feelings of other people? Can I be guaranteed a country where a criminal in Sokoto is a criminal in Abia and a criminal Abia is a criminal in Zamfara? Can I be guaranteed a country where my son will not be brutalised because his name

is Okolie? Can I be allowed into a meeting out of respect for my capacity to make contributions in that meeting and not necessarily because I am here but because of where I come from? There was a time in this country when the quota system was the order of the day; even in admission, because if we take candidates on merit, some sections of this country may not have candidates and everybody agreed to it so that our brothers and sisters can catch up with us. :KHQ GLG ZH MHWWLVRQ WKDW FRQVLGHUDWLRQ" 7KH RWKHU QDPH for hypocrisy is double-standard and these questions were being asked quietly and politely before some characters escalated to the national platform. I was not inAbuja because I went overseas for a United Nations meeting held in New York and I just came back, which is why I couldn’t attend the launch. But going forward, if those questions are not answered, we will limp into the bus and see how it goes but I thank God for the courage to ask those questions for and on behalf of Nnamdi and I will end this particular question

with a proverb about a chicken that found itself the claws of a kite and the chicken continued to shout and it said ‘I am shouting not because the kite will leave me but let heaven and earth hear my voice.”

It is said that a group of governors like you, Seyi Makinde, Ortom, Wike, and Ugwuanyi are opposed to the candidacy either because of Wike’s loss or the quest for southern president. Was WKDW WKH UHDVRQ DOO WKH ÀYH JRYHUQRUV ER\FRWWHG WKH ODXQFK" :DV LW SODQQHG WKDW WKH ÀYH RI \RX ZHUH QRW WKHUH" It will be very childish for me not to attend our party activiWLHV EHFDXVH :LNH ORVW , JUDQWHG DQ LQWHUYLHZ RQ WKH ÁRRU RI WKH FRQYHQWLRQ WKDW QLJKW DQG , KDYH WROG :LNH EHIRUH WKH FRQYHQWLRQ that we should be hopeful and prayerful so that we can win, but if we don’t win, are we still going to remain in PDP and his answer was positive that we will remain in PDP; that if another person wins, we will go with the person. However, in trying to make our party strong and give us a narrative with which to market

17

THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 9, 2022

SUNDAY INTERVIEW The Greatest Need of Nigerians Today is Inclusiveness the party from this part of the country, people would always ask me questions as a leader in the party: what is the way forward and what’s in it for us? If that question is posed, I don’t know what I will say or have we gotten to the point where nobody says anything again?

and T. A Orji’s 16 years, Old Aba division would have done Ikpeazu’s eight years and Ikonne’s eight years, which makes up for 16 years. If it goes to Abia North, we don’t mind if it will come to Umuahia again before it comes to the South. It is a recipe for peace and stability.

Like the PDP and APC did...

This is why I needed to satisfy my conscience that I have these questions. It is not about Wike and we are not against his Excellency, Waziri Adamawa. The problem is beyond Waziri. It is about dredging up the courage to speak the right words and this is also part of what is bedeviling Nigeria. I have said that if I were in the shoes of President Buhari, I would engage citizen Nnamdi Kanu. Engaging him does not belittle our president. He is our citizen, and there may be things that Nnamdi Kanu is not seeing because he is not sitting on the presidential chair.

Then, you enlighten him, there could also be things that he is hearing because he is closer to the grassroots which the president doesn’t know and he would educate him. This is what leadership is all about but if you say I would not sit and listen to anything, democracy gives opportunities to be heard.

Going to the Senate after serving eight years as governor, one would wonder if you are not WLUHG :K\ GR \RX ZDQW WR JR WR WKH 6HQDWH" Let me say this. I am tired of being a governor but certainly not tired of responding to impulses from my people. If it is the wish of my people that I represent them in the Senate, so be it but after my stint in the Senate because of age, I will contemplate retirement from politics but if my people feel I am still young enough and also have VRPHWKLQJ WR RͿHU HVSHFLDOO\ LQ WKH DUHD RI WKH IDFW that all that you see in Aba today is done under my watch. If you delete my intervention from Aba, in fact, Abia South and some parts of Abia Central will be left a void, formless and shapeless.

But of all the things you have seen, we have done VR IDU WKH\ DUH E\ WKH HͿRUWV RI WKH VWDWH JRYHUQment. There is no federal government presence in Abia South. They think they need somebody who has the capacity to create and attract federal government’s attention toAbia South. They want us to continue along the line of supporting us as the SME capital of Nigeria. We need to give Aba manufacturers a global perspective, and we need to give the federal government impetus to use us as the arrowhead in the Continental Free Trade Agreement, where we rightly belong. We are not contending with anybody as the largest producer of crude oil, nor are we contending with anybody as the largest producer of rice but we are the best manufacturers of shoes in Africa and the best manufacturer of garments and wears in Africa. So, we need to give a national voice to and he looks out for me. He is an elder statesman all of these that we have been doing. If I could and I am grateful that he provided his platform create an SME bank as a governor, I could do more and opportunity for me to serve. I really don’t on capacity building. I could even establish two industries around Aba, then I understand what have any problem with him. the problems are and I can speak about them. I can 7KDW OHDGV WR WKH TXHVWLRQ RI VXSSRUW IRU mount strong advocacy in that direction and get \RXU RZQ VXFFHVVRU <RXU SUHGHFHVVRU VHHPV things done. I have also done so much in terms of support for trade and commerce and my people IDU GHWDFKHG IURP \RXU GHFLVLRQ« He has not told me about his preference for think that I will be able to ask questions in the DUHD RI ZK\ FXVWRPV R΀FHUV UDLG ZDUHKRXVHV LQ another person…

Aba and after going through the rigours in the 0DQ\ SHRSOH LQ \RXU SDUW\ DUH QRW KDSS\ Wharf, harassment along Benin-Ore Expressway and getting to the warehouse in Aba. It is just like DERXW WKDW GHFLVLRQ« somebody coming into your pot of soup and lifting Which decision? the wing of chicken and asking you where is the ELUWK FHUWLÀFDWH RI WKLV FKLFNHQ" 6R ZH WKLQN WKDW <RXU FKRLFH RI \RXU SUHIHUUHG VXFFHVVRU« there is something that is not right about how You said many… the rest of Nigerians perceive our people in this One of them is the man that left PDP, Senator our genuine calling as traders and small-scale manufacturers, which is just our God-given talent. $EDULEH WR FRQWHVW WKH VHQDWH ZLWK \RX« No. His reason for leaving is that he wanted God doesn’t give one everything but the much he to be governor, and we are from the same local has given, we are asking that we need to protect. government. How do we conceive that it takes 84 My people also think that I am in a position to years in a state of 17 local governments for every mount strong advocacy in that direction. I am local government to produce a governor? How in a position to drive this transition leveraging does one justify eight years by 17? This is the bane on the federal government’s impetus to do that. of politics and politicians in Nigeria. When they :K\ ZDV LW GLͿFXOW WR GR WKDW DV D JRYHUQRU" don’t get what they want, there is no ideology As a leader of the subnational government, and morality behind it. I don’t understand what LW LV 6RPHERG\ ZKRVH KRXVH LV D ÀYH PLQXWHV I have my job cut out for me. I couldn’t do walk away from my house? I think we need to everything. It’s important but that is not to say get to that point where we will be more sensitive that nothing is being done in that direction. We have two to three ICT hubs that recently exported to issues concerning politics. somebody that is valued at $1million. The person $QRWKHU WKRUQ\ LVVXH LV WKDW \RXU ZRXOG EH is residing in the UK now. The person came up with an app for a payment platform but we think VXFFHVVRU LV IURP WKH VDPH DUHD DV \RX« No, I am from Abia South, he is from Abia we can do more. We have over 350 boys in one Central. Abia Central has about six local govern- of those hubs and this ICT initiative has been ment areas, three local government areas are in recognisedbyFordFoundationandwewonmany Umuahia, which is Old Bende, and the other times through the platform and by the grace of three are in Old Aba. From the Abia Charter God, Ford Foundation put Abia State on CNN of Equity, Orji Uzor Kalu, who is from Bende for several weeks where Made-in-Aba products Local Government handed over to the next and ICT exploits were promoted. We have done local government which is in Umuahia North, TXLWH D ORW :H MXVW VLJQHG RͿ WR WUDQVIRUP WKH though in Abia Central, the same Old Bende. digital library at Umuahia into an ICT hub for If it was a crime, it was committed long before young people to idealise, create and innovate. So, now. So, equity dictates that if I am returning to we have created the fundamentals. So, we have Abia North, it has to also stay in the three Ngwa done this much as a subnational government.

Local Government Areas in the Central and then The real thing is the federal government and we proceed from there. In fact, a friend of mine, who think there is a missing link and my people felt I is also one of the critics of the projects of Chief can do the needful by bridging this gap. Again, if Ogbonna asked me a question when Governor you recall all the major issues we have today, be it T. A. Orji was running to be governor, and we Aba-Port Harcourt Expressway, or Ikot Ekpene… were talking about it and he said to me that in Igbo these are federal government roads because I have tradition, that if one lifts a load from the head, he VXͿHUHG D ORW WU\LQJ WR GR WKHVH WKLQJV ZLWKRXW D puts it on the shoulder as it is going down and refund from the federal government and I have my question to him now is that if one is carrying done several federal government roads. The time VRPHWKLQJ IURP WKH JURXQG RQH ZLOO ÀUVW SXW LW has come for the man who understands where on the knee and take it up there using the same the shoe pinches to lead out in the next four years analogy that he used. With Uchenna Ikonne’s at that level to speak for his people. emergence, it has provided an opportunity for See concluding part on www. thisdaylive.com equity. Old Bende would have done Orji Uzor

Howwouldyousituatethekindofgovernance we have had at the federal level since 2015 when \RX DVVXPHG RͿFH" &RXOG ZH KDYH GRQH EHWWHU LI ZH KDG D GL;HUHQW DSSURDFK WR JRYHUQDQFH" (YHU\ERG\ LV PLͿHG DQG VKRFNHG DW WKH NLQG RI leadership we have experienced at the hands of the APC since 2015. The main reason why many people are shocked is that the government is judged based on promises and manifestos they made and President Buhari is not particularly new to presidential orchestration. Perhaps, he is the most prepared at the time having tried several times and experienced leadership at that level as a military ruler. So, we thought he has the levers of SRZHU DW KLV ÀQJHUWLSV DQG KH FRXOG SXOO WKHP EXW it is shocking that the value of the dollar to naira is N730 as at present, which has never happened before and it is on a free fall and the resolution of issues like ASUU strike appears as if we are implementing Boko Haram by default, which is we don’t want western education. The rate of LQÁDWLRQ LV XQFRQWUROODEOH DQG WKHQ SHRSOH DUH being paid N30,000 and they don’t want to see criminals. Graduates won’t get jobs and now they won’t also graduate. Even the simplest of things, the only thing I see happening is sharing of loots. Is that government? They would collect money from London and share it. How does that represent sophisticated thinking? The answers are clear to this particular question and the greatest disservice to our nation is the disunity and the rate of mutual suspicion brought in by the government that today one could be stoned in one part of the country for posting your views on social media and nothing will happen. Some FLWLHV DUH FXW RͿ IURP RWKHU FLWLHV DQG LQ DOO RI WKHVH they still post statistics on agriculture. Where are the farmers? On which farm are the farmers?

Having said all these, why do you think the $3& VKRXOG EH FRQÀGHQW DERXW ZLQQLQJ WKH HOHFWLRQV" What gives a party or candidate hope about what he or she will do in an election is a combinaWLRQ RI WZR WKLQJV 7KH ÀUVW RQH LV ZKDW KH LV DEOH WR do and his opponent is unable to do it. So, if those that are contending with APC become indolent, they say justice does not favour indolence.

7KH 6RXWK HDVW LV QRW VSHDNLQJ DERXW 3HWHU 2EL ,V LW DERXW SDUW\ SROLWLFV RU DERXW WKH EULJKWHVW FKDQFH WKH ,JER KDYH WR PDNH DQ LPSDFW DQG SRVVLEO\ ZLQ WKH SUHVLGHQF\" I don’t know what you mean by the Southeast… , PHDQ OHDGHUV« Leaders of a geopolitical zone cannot be synonymous with the geopolitical zone. Most SROLWLFLDQV VSHDN IURP D VHOÀVK UHDVRQ DQG LW LV DERXW KRZ LW VDWLVÀHV ZKDW WKH\ SHUFHLYH EXW if any leader in the South-east wants, to be frank, he will say Peter Obi is a narrative that is resonating and I believe strongly that God VWLOO LQWHUIHUHV LQ WKH DͿDLUV RI PHQ 6HFRQGO\ I also believe strongly that a mango will fall when it is ripe and it is time. Nobody knows whether it is time and season now or not but whosoever will emerge as the president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria should know there is a Goliath confronting that David. If the person is unable to dredge up the courage to kill that Goliath, then you are not the David.

There is no way we can run away from it.

Ikpeazu

&DQ \RX H[SODLQ WKDW" What I mean is that today for the candidate of PDP, his Goliath is to dredge up the courage to demonstrate your capacity for inclusiveness and nation-building. It is a big-time Goliath.

For Peter Obi, dredge up the courage to speak Nigerianness into the seeming South-east agenda.

For Bola Tinubu, the Goliath is to create a 360 degree departure from what has brought us to this path in the past seven years. $UH \RX QRW ZRUULHG DERXW WKH WHQGHQFLHV RI VXFFHVVRUV QRW WR FRQWLQXH ZLWK VXFK YLVLRQV" Yes, I have also tried to move away from that line of thought which has become the bane of our political intervention in Nigeria. I inherited about six to seven projects from my predecessor and I am proud to say that I have completed three and I am going to complete the Government House project which I inherited. We have a tradition in Abia of not allowing the people’s funds to be wasted on abandoned projects. If my predecessor embarked on some projects and they are life-changing projects, why won’t I embrace it and conclude it? After all, it is our money that is being tied down. On a very serious note, we have Enyimba Economic City beyond the sentiments and nuances of whosoever comes after me because there is a law provision that protects Enyimba Economic City as an entity that is capable of self-governance within Abia.

This is so because we needed to give comfort to the private sector entities that are investing. It is a PPP project, driven by the private sector but protected by our laws. It is not likely we are going to abandon it. It is a strong vision that will sell LWVHOI 6R , DP YHU\ FRQÀGHQW DERXW WKH SURMHFW ,Q PDQ\ RWKHU VWDWHV VRPHRQH OLNH \RX FRPHV LQ DQG VXFFHHGV DQRWKHU SHUVRQ D ZDU ZLOO HQVXH EHWZHHQ WKH SUHGHFHVVRU DQG VXFFHVVRU +RZ KDYH \RX EHHQ PDQDJLQJ \RXU SUHGHFHVVRU LQ RͿFH" Anywhere there is peace, even in a family, there must be a compromise. Luckily, I am a man that is devoid of ego because of my training. I am a very sophisticated person. I understand signs and times. My predecessor has also been a gentleman.

He understands that there has to be one key in the plug at a time; that Abia State has one governor, which is me. In return, I accord him his respect as an elder statesman. I seek his advice whenever I need and I also urge him to call my attention when he doesn’t understand what I am doing EXW ODUJHO\ ZH EXLOG VX΀FLHQW FRQÀGHQFH WKDW he is sure that I will act in the best interest of the state and not necessarily to undermine him. If there are things I do during the course of work that he is averse to, he would also see my view that it is for the overall interest of the state. I was confronted with his question recently and my responsewasthatmypredecessorunderstandsme

18

T H I S DAY, T H E S U N DAY N E W S PA P E R • OCTOBER 9, 2022

MARKET NEWS A Mutual fund (Unit Trust) is an investment vehicle managed by a SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) registered Fund Manager.

Investors with similar objectives buy units of the Fund so that the Fund Manager can buy securities that willl generate their desired return.

An ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) is a type of fund which owns the assets (shares of stock, bonds, oil futures, gold bars, foreign currency, etc.) and divides ownership of those assets into shares. Investors can buy these ‘shares’ on the

floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

A REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) is an investment vehicle that allows both small and large investors to part-own real estate ventures (eg.

Offices, Houses, Hospitals) in proportion to their investments. The assets are divided into shares that are traded on the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

GUIDE TO DATA: Date: All fund prices are quoted in Naira as at 06Oct-2022, unless otherwise stated.

Offer price: The price at which units of a trust or ETF are bought by investors.

Bid Price: The price at which Investors redeem (sell) units of a trust or ETF. Yield/Total Return: Denotes the total return an investor would have earned on his investment. Money Market Funds report Yield while others report Year- to-date Total Return.

NAV: Is value per share of the real estate assets held by a REIT on a specific date.

DAILY PRICE LIST FOR MUTUAL FUNDS, REITS and ETFS MUTUAL FUNDS / UNIT TRUSTS AFRINVEST ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD aaml@afrinvest.com Web: www.afrinvest.com; Tel: +234 818 885 6757 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Afrinvest Equity Fund N/A N/A N/A Afrinvest Plutus Fund N/A N/A N/A Nigeria International Debt Fund N/A N/A N/A Afrinvest Dollar Fund N/A N/A N/A AIICO CAPITAL LTD ammf@aiicocapital.com Web: www.aiicocapital.com, Tel: +234-1-2792974 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AIICO Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 10.84% AIICO Balanced Fund 3.64 3.70 5.48% ANCHORIA ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED info@anchoriaam.com Web:www.anchoriaam.com, Tel: 08166830267; 08036814510; 08028419180 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Anchoria Money Market 100.00 100.00 6.49% Anchoria Equity Fund 134.51 135.99 -3.40% Anchoria Fixed Income Fund 1.17 1.17 1.96% info@anchoriaam.com ARM INVESTMENT MANAGERS LTD enquiries@arminvestmentcenter.com Web: www.arm.com.ng; Tel: 0700 CALLARM (0700 225 5276) Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ARM Aggressive Growth Fund 20.57 21.19 1.43% ARM Discovery Balanced Fund 494.48 509.39 9.60% ARM Ethical Fund 41.60 42.86 6.79% ARM Eurobond Fund ($) 1.09 1.09 0.61% ARM Fixed Income Fund 0.00 0.00 -100.00% ARM Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 10.04% AVA GLOBAL ASSET MANAGERS LIMITED info@avacapitalgroup.com Web: www.avacapitalgroup.com; Tel 08069294653 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AVA GAM Fixed Income Dollar Fund 88.92 88.92 -7.93% AVA GAM Fixed Income Dollar Naira 1,080.56 1,080.56 8.06% AXA MANSARD INVESTMENTS LIMITED investmentcare@axamansard.com Web: www.axamansard.com; Tel: +2341-4488482 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AXA Mansard Equity Income Fund N/A N/A N/A AXA Mansard Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A CAPITAL EXPRESS ASSET AND TRUST LIMITED info@capitalexpressassetandtrust.com Web: www.capitalexpressassetandtrust.com; Tel: +234 803 307 5048 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn CEAT Fixed Income Fund 2.10 2.10 2.33% Capital Express Balanced Fund(Formerly: Union Trustees Mixed Fund) 2.25 2.30 3.56% CAPITALTRUST INVESTMENTS AND ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED halalfif@capitaltrustnigeria.com Web: www.capitaltrustnigeria.com; Tel: 08061458806 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Capitaltrust Halal Fixed Income Fund N/A N/A N/A CARDINALSTONE ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED mutualfunds@cardinalstone.com Web: www.cardinalstoneassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 (1) 710 0433 4 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn CardinalStone Fixed Income Alpha Fund 1.02 1.02 6.48% CHAPELHILL DENHAM MANAGEMENT LTD investmentmanagement@chapelhilldenham.com Web: www.chapelhilldenham.com, Tel: +234 461 0691 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Chapelhill Denham Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 11.76% Paramount Equity Fund 17.65 17.97 5.37% Women's Investment Fund 142.16 143.82 0.13% CORDROS ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmgtteam@cordros.com Web: www.cordros.com, Tel: 019036947 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Cordros Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 9.79% Cordros Milestone Fund 127.93 128.73 2.94% Cordros Dollar Fund ($) 111.53 111.53 5.05% CORONATION ASSETS MANAGEMENT investment@coronationam.com Web:www.coronationam.com, Tel: 012366215 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Coronation Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A Coronation Balanced Fund N/A N/A N/A Coronation Fixed Income Fund N/A N/A N/A EDC FUNDS MANAGEMENT LIMITED mutualfundng@ecobank.com Web: www.ecobank.com Tel: 012265281 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class A N/A N/A N/A EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class B N/A N/A N/A EDC Nigeria Fixed Income Fund N/A N/A N/A EMERGING AFRICA ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmanagement@emergingafricafroup.com Web:www.emergingafricagroup.com/emerging-africa-asset-management-limited/, Tel: 08039492594 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Emerging Africa Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A Emerging Africa Bond Fund N/A N/A N/A Emerging Africa Balanced Diversity Fund N/A N/A N/A Emerging Africa Eurobond Fund N/A N/A N/A FBNQUEST ASSETS MANAGEMENT LIMITED invest@fbnquest.com Web: www.fbnquest.com/asset-management; Tel: +234-81 0082 0082 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn FBN Bond Fund 1512.84 1512.84 11.49% FBN Balanced Fund 190.24 191.49 8.55% FBN Halal Fund 124.24 124.24 11.41% FBN Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 10.79% FBN Dollar Fund (Retail) 126.53 126.53 6.27% FBN Nigeria Smart Beta Equity Fund 151.38 153.40 0.85% FCMB ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED fcmbamhelpdesk@fcmb.com Web: www.fcmbassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 1 462 2596 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Legacy Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 10.77% Legacy Debt Fund 3.58 3.58 -10.58% Legacy Equity Fund 1.80 1.84 3.63% Legacy USD Bond Fund 1.25 1.25 3.61% FSDH ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD coralfunds@fsdhgroup.com Web: www.fsdhaml.com; Tel: 01-270 4884-5; 01-280 9740-1 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn

Coral Balanced Fund Coral Income Fund Coral Money Market Fund

3,966.75 3,637.39 100.00

4,018.93 3,637.39 100.00

2.31% 6.38% 11.27%

FSDH Dollar Fund 1.12 1.12 4.08% GUARANTY TRUST FUND MANAGERS LIMITED enquiries@investment-one.com Web: www.investment-one.com; Tel: +234 812 992 1045,+234 1 448 8888 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Abacus Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A Vantage Balanced Fund N/A N/A N/A Vantage Guaranteed Income Fund N/A N/A N/A Kedari Investment Fund (KIF) N/A N/A N/A Vantage Equity Income Fund (VEIF) - June Year End N/A N/A N/A Vantage Dollar Fund (VDF) - June Year End N/A N/A N/A LOTUS CAPITAL LTD fincon@lotuscapitallimited.com Web: www.lotuscapitallimited.com; Tel: +234 1-291 4626 / +234 1-291 4624 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Lotus Halal Investment Fund 1.62 1.65 14.26% Lotus Halal Fixed Income Fund 1,176.48 1,176.48 7.10% MERISTEM WEALTH MANAGEMENT LTD info@meristemwealth.com Web: www.meristemwealth.com/funds/; Tel: +2348028496012 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Meristem Equity Market Fund 11.62 11.72 0.00% Meristem Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 0.00% NORRENBERGER INVESTMENT AND CAPITAL MANAGEMENT LIMITED enquiries@norrenberger.com Web: www.norrenberger.com, Tel: +234 (0) 908 781 2026 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Norrenberger Islamic Fund (NIF) 102.98 102.98 9.26% Norrenberger Money Market Fund (NMMF) 100.00 100.00 10.80% PAC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD info@pacassetmanagement.com Web: www.pacassetmanagement.com/mutualfunds; Tel: +234 1 271 8632 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn PACAM Balanced Fund N/A N/A N/A PACAM Fixed Income Fund N/A N/A N/A PACAM Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A PACAM Equity Fund N/A N/A N/A PACAM EuroBond Fund N/A N/A N/A SCM CAPITAL LIMITED info@scmcapitalng.com Web: www.scmcapitalng.com; Tel: +234 1-280 2226,+234 1- 280 2227 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn SCM Capital Frontier Fund 123.97 126.50 0.05% SFS CAPITAL NIGERIA LTD investments@sfsnigeria.com Web: www.sfsnigeria.com, Tel: +234 (01) 2801400 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn SFS Fixed Income Fund 1.07 1.07 10.04% STANBIC IBTC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD assetmanagement@stanbicibtc.com Web: www.stanbicibtcassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 1 280 1266; 0700 MUTUALFUNDS Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Stanbic IBTC Balanced Fund 3,443.40 3,475.40 1.64% Stanbic IBTC Bond Fund 242.52 242.52 2.95% Stanbic IBTC Ethical Fund 1.34 1.36 7.14% Stanbic IBTC Guaranteed Investment Fund 327.30 327.30 4.53% Stanbic IBTC Iman Fund 249.19 252.71 6.80% Stanbic IBTC Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 10.17% Stanbic IBTC Nigerian Equity Fund 11,390.06 11,542.51 4.39% Stanbic IBTC Dollar Fund (USD) 1.34 1.34 4.02% Stanbic IBTC Shariah Fixed Income Fund 119.94 119.94 2.59% Stanbic IBTC Enhanced Short-Term Fixed Income Fund 112.89 112.89 6.12% UNITED CAPITAL ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD unitedcapitalplcgroup.com Web: www.unitedcapitalplcgroup.com; Tel: +234 01-6317876 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn United Capital Equity Fund 0.91 0.93 3.30% United Capital Balanced Fund 1.32 1.33 0.89% United Capital Wealth for Women Fund 1.14 1.15 10.30% United Capital Sukuk Fund 1.08 1.08 7.22% United Capital Fixed Income Fund 1.92 1.92 6.33% United Capital Eurobond Fund 123.69 123.69 5.76% United Capital Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 11.41% QUANTUM ZENITH ASSET MANAGEMENT & INVESTMENTS LTD service@quantumzenithasset.com.ng Web: www.quantumzenith.com.ng; Tel: +234 1-2784219 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Zenith Balanced Strategy Fund 13.31 13.43 0.91% Zenith ESG Impact Fund 15.19 15.33 3.86% Zenith Income Fund 23.17 23.17 5.56% Zenith Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 10.52% VETIVA FUND MANAGERS LTD funds@vetiva.com Web: www.vetiva.com; Tel: +234 1 453 0697 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Vetiva Banking Exchange Traded Fund 3.58 3.68 -10.70% Vetiva Consumer Goods Exchange Traded Fund 5.76 5.86 -1.46% Vetiva Griffin 30 Exchange Traded Fund 17.07 17.27 -3.47% Vetiva Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 10.01% Vetiva Industrial Goods Exchange Traded Fund 17.57 17.77 -11.99% Vetiva S&P Nigeria Sovereign Bond Exchange Traded Fund 136.89 138.89 -13.15%

REITS NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

119.29 52.14

5.27% 2.50%

Bid Price

Offer Price

Yield / T-Rtn

14.06 120.38 94.63 16.40 17.10

14.16 123.41 96.69 16.50 17.20

0.55% -5.30% -5.15% -12.98% 5.92%

NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

107.59

0.00%

Fund Name SFS REIT Union Homes REIT

EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS Fund Name Lotus Halal Equity Exchange Traded Fund SIAML Pension ETF 40 Stanbic IBTC ETF 30 Fund MERGROWTH ETF MERVALUE ETF

INFRASTRUCTURE FUND Fund Name Chapel Hill Denham Nigeria Infrastructure Debt Fund

The value of investments and the income from them may fall as well as rise. Past performance is a guide and not an indication of future returns. Fund prices published in this edition are also available on each fund manager’s website and FMAN’s website at www.fman.com.ng. Fund prices are supplied by the operator of the relevant fund and are published for information purposes only.

19

THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 9 , 2022

BUSINESS

Editor: Festus Akanbi 08038588469 Email:festus.akanbi@thisdaylive.com s supply.

“So, indeed, we have closed the gates; only i interventions that are very, very critical. MSMEs W WKDW DUH VWDWXWRU\ ZKLFK WDNHV RI HYHU\ EDQN·V S SURÀW DIWHU WD[ LW LV QRW D ORW WR GHSOR\ WR 60(V a then supporting the electricity sector is very, and v critical. Interventions have stopped...” very Continuing, he said, “We have also started r recovering loans from state governments. We K KDYH EHHQ GRLQJ D ORDQ ZRUNRXW SURJUDPPH w them, and we are debiting their FAAC with d directly for the loans. ´6R LI D VWDWH JRYHUQPHQW KDV WDNHQ 1 ELOOLRQ D DQG LV LQ GHIDXOW RYHU VL[ PRQWKV ZH DUH JRLQJ t be debiting them N150 million every month. to “So, we started that programme- every single l loan that has been given out through any of o Intervention Programme must be paid our E EDFN 7KHUH·V DEVROXWHO\ QR PHUF\ :H DUH L LQ UHFRYHU\ PRGH DV GHYHORSPHQW ÀQDQFH d departments are beginning to recover most o the loan. of ´)LQDOO\ ZH·UH ZRUNLQJ ZLWK ()&& 7KH C CBN governor has approved for ourselves D DQG ()&& WR VHW XS D GHVN WR KHOS XV UHFRYHU W WKH ORDGV ZKHUH ZH DUH DW ULVN , PHQWLRQHG r really around ABP and then some of the SMEs. $ $ ORW RI SHRSOH WRRN WKH WDUJHWHG FUHGLW IDFLOLW\ W WKDW ZH JLYH RXW GXULQJ WKH &29,' SHULRG 6 6R HYHU\ERG\ PXVW SD\ EDFN ,W LV RQO\ ZKHQ \ \RX SD\ EDFN WKDW ZH FDQ KDYH WKRVH IXQGV W WR DEOH WR OHQG EDFN :H·OO PRYH WR D UHJLPH w where we’ll want to begin to push out funds.”

Emefiele

Sustaining Credit Expansion for Economic Sustainability James Emejo ZULWHV WKDW ZLWK WKH UHPDUNDEOH LPSURYHPHQW LQ FUHGLW ÁRZ to the real sector through the various intervention schemes by the Central %DQN RI 1LJHULD LQ UHFHQW WLPHV WKH JHVWXUH PXVW EH ZHOO UHFLSURFDWHG LQ the interest of the general economy

I

f anything, recent reports that some EHQHÀFLDULHV RI WKH EDQNLQJ VHFWRU intervention funds, particularly the CBN-Anchor Borrower Programme (ABP) and the Targeted Credit Facility (TCF) among others, have failed to commence the process of repayment of loans are particularly worrisome, considering the country’s hitherto credit system.

Earlier in September, there were reports that VRPH PDL]H IDUPHUV XQGHU WKH $%3 KDG PLVWDNHQ the loan for grants, and even acted as if they never NQHZ WKH\ ZRXOG KDYH WR SD\ EDFN WKH ORDQV The National President of the Maize Farmers Association of Nigeria (MAAN), Dr. Bello $EXEDNDU UHFHQWO\ ODPHQWHG WKDW GHVSLWH WKH numerous gains so far recorded in the ABP implementation, there had been challenges particularly as some farmers across the country have misconceptions about repayment, adding WKDW VRPH EHQHÀFLDULHV GR QRW VHH WKH UHDVRQ ZK\ WKH\ VKRXOG SD\ EDFN 7R PDNH PDWWHUV ZRUVH $EXEDNDU VDLG VRPH politicians have created wrong impressions that the intervention facility was from them and that it is free, a development which had further hampered loan repayment.

Intervention Exposures $FFRUGLQJ WR WKH FHQWUDO EDQN RXW RI WKH 1 trillion interventions funds disbursed to critical sectors of the economy, about N3.7 trillion had VR IDU EHHQ UHSDLG E\ EHQHÀFLDULHV ZKLOH WKH VXP of N5 trillion was not yet due for recovery as most are still under moratorium.

6SHDNLQJ UHFHQWO\ DW WKH SRVW 03& PHGLD EULHÀQJ &%1 'LUHFWRU 'HYHORSPHQW )LQDQFH Department, Mr. Yusuf Yila, said the anchor borrower programme had gulped the sum of N1 trillion out of which only about N400 billion so far been recovered.

Disappointing Attitude by Farmers It is rather disturbing that the negative attitude

of some farmers to loan repayment had come DIWHU UHSHDWHG FODULÀFDWLRQV DQG ZDUQLQJ IURP WKH FHQWUDO EDQN RQ YDULRXV RFFDVLRQV WKDW WKH intervention funds are not grants but credit that must be repaid.

There’s no gainsaying the fact that the real sector of the economy which had hitherto been VWDUYHG RI ÀQDQFLQJ E\ WKH EDQNLQJ V\VWHP KDV ZLWQHVVHG DQ LPSURYHG ÁRZ RI FUHGLW LQ UHFHQW WLPHV WKDQNV WR WKH HͿRUWV RI WKH DSH[ EDQN LQ mobilising support through its intervention VFKHPH XQGHU LWV GHYHORSPHQW ÀQDQFLQJ initiative. &RPPHUFLDO EDQNV KDG SDUWLFXODUO\ UHVWULFWHG funding to the agricultural sector and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) which ZHUH RIWHQ FRQVLGHUHG KLJK ULVN GXH WR KLJK rates of default in loans.

The CBN has had to intervene by providing liquidity directly to these sectors through its GHYHORSPHQW ÀQDQFLQJ SURJUDPPHV But the fact that one of the greatest fears of the EDQNV ² ORDQ GHIDXOW E\ 60(V DQG IDUPHUV ² DUH FXUUHQWO\ EHHQ UHSOD\HG DQG H[SHULHQFHG E\ the CBN leaves much to be desired.

Before now, SMEs and agriculture were FRQVLGHUHG KLJKO\ ULVN\ WR EH VXSSRUWHG E\ GHSRVLW PRQH\ EDQNV SURPSWLQJ WKH DSH[ EDQN WR LQWHUYHQH DQG FDXVH D ZDWHUVKHG LQ UHDO VHFWRU ÀQDQFLQJ LQ WKH FRXQWU\ GSI to the Rescue? )ROORZLQJ WKH IDLOXUH RI VRPH EHQHÀFLDULHV RI WKH $%3 WR RͿVHW WKHLU LQGHEWHGQHVV &%1 Senior Manager, Development Finance OfÀFH 3RUW +DUFRXUW %UDQFK 0U &HOVXV $JOD during a strategic meeting with maize farmers DQG VWDNHKROGHUV IURP WKH 6RXWK VRXWK DQG 6RXWK HDVW JHR SROLWLFDO ]RQH LQ 3RUW +DUFRXUW 5LYHUV 6WDWH ZDUQHG WKDW WKH EDQN PD\ HYRNH the Global Standing Instruction (GSI) against loan defaulters under the Anchor Borrower Programme (ABP).

Essentially, the GSI, which was introduced

E\ WKH DSH[ EDQN LQ VHHNV WR DPRQJ RWKHU WKLQJV SURPRWH D VRXQG ÀQDQFLDO V\VWHP LQ Nigeria, facilitate an improved credit repayPHQW FXOWXUH UHGXFH 1RQ 3HUIRUPLQJ /RDQV 13/V LQ WKH EDQNLQJ LQGXVWU\ DQG ZDWFK OLVW consistent loan defaulters.

According to the CBN, “The GSI shall serve as D ODVW UHVRUW E\ D FUHGLWRU EDQN ZLWKRXW UHFRXUVH to the borrower, to recover past due obligations 3ULQFLSDO DQG $FFUXHG ,QWHUHVW RQO\ H[FOXGLQJ any Penal Charges) from a defaulting borrower WKURXJK D GLUHFW VHW RͿ IURP GHSRVLWV LQYHVWPHQWV KHOG LQ WKH ERUURZHU·V TXDOLI\LQJ EDQN DFFRXQWV ZLWK SDUWLFLSDWLQJ ÀQDQFLDO LQVWLWXtions.”

No Mercy for Debtors According to Yila, who insisted the CBN interventions were not grants but loans that PXVW EH SDLG EDFN WKH *6, KDV EHHQ DFWLYDWHG WR UHFRYHU ORDQV IURP WKH YDULRXV EHQHÀFLDULHV of its intervention support. +H DGGHG WKDW WKH &%1 LV DOUHDG\ LQ WKH GHEW recovery mode and had been debiting the states directly from their FAAC allocations to settle WKHLU OLDELOLWLHV WR WKH DSH[ EDQN DGGLQJ WKDW WKH EDQN LV DOVR SDUWQHULQJ ZLWK WKH (FRQRPLF DQG Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) wherever ULVN LV SHUFHLYHG According to the CBN director, “There will be QR PHUF\ HYHU\ERG\ PXVW SD\ EDFNµ DGGLQJ WKDW WKH FHQWUDO EDQN LV DW WKLV WLPH DOVR VORZLQJ GRZQ on all its intervention programmes to focus only on the priority areas, particularly electricity and SMEs, clarifying that the intervention schemes were not being shut down anyway adding that the manufacturing sector accounted for 31 per FHQW RI WKH &%1 LQWHUYHQWLRQ HͿRUWV Yila said: “We’ve already started even before the announcement of the MPC to taper some of the programmes that we were doing. I can FRQÀUP WR \RX WKDW WKH JDWHV KDYH EHHQ FORVHG 7R PDNH WKH PRQHWDU\ SROLF\ WRRO WKDW KDV EHHQ GHSOR\HG YHU\ HͿHFWLYH \RX VWUDLQ WKH PRQH\

/RDQ 'HIDXOW ZLOO $;HFW &UHGLW )ORZ Meanwhile, analysts in separate interviews ZLWK 7+,6'$< VDLG WKH IDLOXUH E\ EHQHÀFLDries of the CBN intervention funds to repay their loans will have implications for future disbursements.

Wealth Management and Business Development Consultant, Mr. Ibrahim Shelleng, said EDQNV DQG RWKHU ÀQDQFLDO LQVWLWXWLRQV KDYH RIWHQ OLPLWHG WKHLU H[SRVXUHV WR 60(V ZKLFK DUH FRQVLGHUHG WR EH KLJK ULVN GXH WR KLJK UDWHV of default in loans.

According to him, the CBN has had to intervene by providing liquidity directly to WKHVH VHFWRUV WKURXJK LWV GHYHORSPHQW ÀQDQFing programmes, pointing out, however, that WKH FHQWUDO EDQN LV DOVR ´ZLWQHVVLQJ WKH UHDVRQ ZK\ GHSRVLW PRQH\ EDQNV KDYH OLPLWHG WKHLU involvement in those areas”. +H QRQHWKHOHVV QRWHG WKDW WKH LQDELOLW\ RI EHQHÀFLDULHV WR IXOÀO WKHLU ÀQDQFLDO REOLJDWLRQV WR WKH DSH[ EDQN PD\ QRW EH XQFRQQHFWHG ZLWK ERWK WKH &29,' SDQGHPLF DQG WKH FXUUHQW JOREDO KHDGZLQGV GXH WR WKH 5XVVLDQ 8NUDLQH FULVLV ZKLFK DSSHDUHG WR KDYH WDNHQ D WROO RQ small businesses.

Shellleng, however, said: “The high rates of GHIDXOW ZLOO XQGRXEWHGO\ KXUW FUHGLW ÁRZ WR WKH HFRQRP\ DV EDQNV ZLOO UHGXFH WKHLU H[SRVXUH WR KLJK ULVN VHFWRUV :LWK UHDO VHFWRU SOD\HUV QRW JHWWLQJ DFFHVV WR FUHGLW LW ZLOO FHUWDLQO\ DͿHFW growth.

“Increasing credit to the real sector will require D UREXVW FUHGLW V\VWHP WKDW ÀUVWO\ SURYLGHV D UREXVW ULVN DVVHVVPHQW RI SRWHQWLDO ERUURZHUV DQG VHFRQGO\ HͿHFWLYH PRQLWRULQJ DQG FROOHFWLRQ RI loan repayments as currently, aside from moral VXDVLRQ DQG GHELWLQJ IURP DQ\ EDQN DFFRXQW that the borrower owns (as recently introduced

by CBN).”

In the same vein, Managing Director/Chief ([HFXWLYH 6' ' &DSLWDO 0DQDJHPHQW /LPLWHG 0U ,GDNROR *ERODGH WKH FHQWUDO EDQN·V EDQN·V initiative on lending to SMEs and agriculture was laudable adding that it was CBN that enabled the positive position on the credit landscape. +H VDLG PRVW RI WKH GHSRVLW PRQH\ EDQNV refused to go deep into the SMEs and agricultural VHFWRU EHFDXVH RI WKHLU IXQG PL[ DQG FRVW RI IXQGV ZKLFK ZLOO EH WRR H[SHQVLYH IRU WKH VHFWRU +RZHYHU KH VDLG ´7KH &%1 ORDQ UDWH WR these sectors were at single digit interest rate which is what is sustainable for the sector. The reports from the CBN have shown that most of WKH ORDQ EHQHÀFLDULHV LQ WKH $QFKRU %RUURZHUV Programme had failed to repay their loan.

“This can be attributed to two major factors: 7KH EHQHÀFLDULHV EHOLHYH WKDW \RX GRQ·W KDYH to repay a government loan because it is free PRQH\ DQG VRPH RI WKH EHQHÀFLDULHV IDFHG VRPH FKDOOHQJHV OLNH VHFXULW\ LVVXHV ZHDWKHU SUREOHPV WKDW DͿHFWHG WKHLU EXVLQHVV ZKLFK FDXVHG WKHP not to be able to repay the loan.” *ERODGH VDLG ´7KH ODFN RI UHSD\PHQW ZLOO DͿHFW RWKHU ZRXOG EH EHQHÀFLDULHV DQG DOVR DͿHFW LQFUHDVHG FUHGLW WR WKHVH VHFWRUV “The major implication of non-repayment of CBN-initiated loans is that it would discourage WKH EDQN IURP UROOLQJ RXW PRUH LQLWLDWLYHV XQWLO positive reports start coming in.”

20

THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 9 , 2022

FINANCE

As Dozie Brothers Make Wave with Carbon Finance 7KURXJK WKH DFWLYLWLHV RI &DUERQ )LQDQFH D ÀQWHFK FRPSDQ\ ZKLFK PDUNHG LWV WK DQQLYHUVDU\ ODVW PRQWK WKH 'R]LH EURWKHUV &KLMLRNH DQG 1JR]L KDYH FRQÀUPHG WKH GLFWXP that says necessity is the mother of invention, writes Festus Akanbi

T

he dictum, that necessity is the mother of all inventions has continued to play out LQ WKH 1LJHULDQ ÀQDQFLDO industry where the inadequacy of the traditional banking system is creating room for a technology-driven mode of operation.

Banking industry watchers said that is ZK\ ÀQDQFLDO VHUYLFH GHOLYHU\ LV JUDGXDOO\ merging with emerging technologies to IRUP WKH QRZ SRSXODU ¶ÀQDQFLDO WHFKQRORJ\ in Nigeria.

When we talk about banking today, we also talk about FinTech companies, which SURYLGH ÀQDQFLDO VHUYLFHV WR WKH SXEOLF XVLQJ the software. Unlike the traditional banking system, these companies are not hindered by factors like legacy operating systems. ,W ZDV WKLV JDS LQ WKH ÀQDQFLDO LQGXVWU\ that the duo of Ngozi Dozie and his brother Chijioke Dozie decided to exploit with the establishment of Carbon Finance, just like RWKHU SURPRWHUV RI WKH QRZ IDPRXV ÀQWHFK services in Nigeria.

As Banking Runs in the Family Co-founders Chijioke and Ngozi Dozie DUH WHVWHG ÀQDQFH SURIHVVLRQDOV ZLWK ,Y\ League MBAs. They are children of one of Nigeria’s foremost bankers, Paschal Dozie, who established the defunct Diamond Bank which was later acquired by Access Bank Plc. Diamond Bank, until its acquisition was an undisputable digital-minded bank.

Although the company had been quietly pushing its services deeper into Nigeria’s ÀQDQFLDO PDUNHW RYHU WKH \HDUV LW ZDV WLPH to make a noise on September 16, 2022, when the management decided to roll out drums to mark its 10th anniversary with a promise to transform the banking experience, making the process more accessible DQG ÁH[LEOH IRU FRQVXPHUV The Beginning 7KH ÀUP ZDV RULJLQDOO\ VHW XS DV D OHQGLQJ company, with over a million users across the federation and operations in two African countries.

Having begun operations in 2012 as One Credit, a brick-and-mortar consumer lender focused on the Nigerian market, the company then pivoted in 2016 to become a digital lender via its Pay later App and was focused on providing access to consumer credit services.

With a refreshed intention to develop LQWR D IXOO\ IXQFWLRQLQJ GLJLWDO ÀQDQFLDO VHUYLFH SODWIRUP WKDW RͿHUV FRVW HͿHFWLYH bill payments, free fund transfers, and high-yield savings and investments options in addition to loans, the company 2019 rebranded itself as Carbon Finance DQG ZDV JUDQWHG D PLFURÀQDQFH EDQNLQJ licence by the Central Bank of Nigeria.

According to Ngozi Dozie, the licence PHDQV WKDW &DUERQ·V FXVWRPHUV DUH DͿRUGHG additional protection through depositors’ insurance via the NDIC. The Nigerian Deposit Insurance Corporation, a federal insurance agency, protects depositors and guarantees the settlement of insured funds ZKHQ D ÀQDQFLDO LQVWLWXWLRQ FDQ QR ORQJHU repay its deposits. With that in place, Dozie says the typical Carbon wallet is now a IXOO ÁHGJHG EDQN DFFRXQW DQG FXVWRPHUV can perform transactions on the platform as they would with any bank.

Focusing on Customers’ Needs Speaking further, Chijioke Dozie, noted, “At Carbon, we are very proud of what we have built, thanks to our customers and the humans. When we look at the last 10 years and the future ahead, we want to focus more on our customer’s needs and ensure we are adapting to the market demands and changing the way Nigerians make payments.”

Chjioke Dozie

His brother, Ngozi Dozie, who is also co-founder further explained that the company’s newly launched buy now pay later product “Carbon Zero” gives customers the ÁH[LELOLW\ WR VKRS ZKDW WKH\ ZDQW ZKHQ they want, without breaking the bank at a zero per cent interest rate.

Ngozi Dozie

EHQHÀFLDU\ RI VRPH RI WKH GHYHORSPHQWDO policies of the Central Bank of Nigeria, like WKH %DQN 9HULÀFDWLRQ 1XPEHU %91 IRU instance, which allowed their team access to their customers’ information without QHFHVVDULO\ FRQGXFWLQJ SK\VLFDO YHULÀFDWLRQ The co-founders said Carbon provides customer-centric services, including making Financials loans accessible for everyone at the lowest ,WV ODVW ÀQDQFLDO ÀJXUH UHOHDVHG ZDV WKDW RI FRVW SRVVLEOH HQDEOLQJ VHDPOHVV ÀQDQFH WKH ÀVFDO \HDU LQ ZKLFK WKH FRPSDQ\ decisions, and helping other businesses which has about 659,000 customers, said it scale. processed N96.54 billion (~$241.35 million), Ngozi recalled that the company was up 89% compared to the same period of WKH ÀUVW GLJLWDO OHQGHU WR JLYH FXVWRPHUV the preceding year. For its lending arm, credit reports. Then, customers could go disbursement volume was N25.21 billion on to verify their credit status from any of (~$63 million), up 9.1% from FY2019. Also, the credit bureaus.

N13.02 billion (~$32.55 million) worth of ´:H ZHUH WKH ÀUVW ÀQWHFK LQ 1LJHULD investments were made on the platform, if not Africa, to get a credit rating from representing a 365% increase from the GCR, and that was because we realized previous year.

WKDW ÀQDQFH LV QRW MXVW DERXW FUHGLELOLW\ As of 2019, this top Nigerian Fintech but also about trust.” company had already generated a revenue Since its rebranding to become Carbon of up to $10.4 million and has disbursed LQ WKH ÀQWHFK FRPSDQ\ KDV HYROYHG not less than $35 million in loans. into a fully-functional service platform WKDW RͿHUV FRVW HͿHFWLYH ELOO SD\PHQWV IUHH Providing Access to Nigerians fund transfers and high-yield savings and 6SHDNLQJ DW D SUHVV EULHÀQJ LQ FRP- investment options to users, in addition memoration of the 10th anniversary of to its original loan option.

Carbon, the founders disclosed that a major ,Q DGGLWLRQ LW VWDUWHG WR RͿHU 1LJHULDQV achievement for the team over the years is ZKDW PDQ\ FRQYHQWLRQDO ÀQDQFLDO LQVWLWXbeing able to provide access to credit and tions in the country are unable to guarantee: ÀQDQFH WR PDQ\ 1LJHULDQV no charges when they use the platform to They described Nigeria as one of the most FDUU\ RXW ÀQDQFLDO WUDQVDFWLRQV RU VKRS fertile markets for Fintech companies in with Carbon Zero.

Africa and a rightly regulated destination Carbon later started to pay interest to for tech innovations to thrive, irrespective customers monthly based on their savings of the ratings by Nigerians themselves.

EDODQFH $QRWKHU LQWHUHVWLQJ RͿHULQJ LV D )RU WKHP 1LJHULD RͿHUV WKH ULJKW PDUNHW 1% interest payment on the total spending in terms of regulation due to the forward- of a customer at the end of the month who thinking abilities of the regulators. This use the platform for their transactions. provides a soft spot for market entry.

Another major value proposition that has On his part, Chijioke Dozie believes the kept Carbon apart from its competitors is imperfections of the market also provide its “buy now, pay later model. This allows innovators with real-life market challenges customers to spread payment over time they can leverage to build sustainable busi- based on their convenience when they shop ness models. for items using Carbon.

“Nigeria is one of the most rightly regulated tech spaces in Africa, and that’s Credit Culture why it continues to attract more funding The founders emphasised the need for investments for startups…”

Nigerians to eliminate the stigma associated Chijioke said that Carbon has been a with people taking loans. Ngozi explained

that credit facilities are a normal phenomenon around the world, and people should be encouraged to take loans when they see the need, to kickstart a business or even sustain a need at any point in time.

On the emergence of loan sharks and a lasting solution for distinguishing them from genuine credit-giving facilities, Ngozi said that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Federal Competition and Consumers Protection Commission (FCCPC) are doing so much already to curb these loan sharks.

He, however, admits that more is still required in the areas of implementation and enforcement of these policies.

He noted that the problem was one of supply and demand. Individuals continually ZDQW ORDQV IURP EXVLQHVVHV WKDW RͿHU UDWHV WKDW DUH ZLOG RͿ WKH PDUN DQG WKHQ JR RQ to fall prey to being harassed and molested by these supposed credit businesses.

In curbing high loan defaults, he noted that a model that has worked for them involves a collaboration with banks and RWKHU ÀQDQFLDO LQVWLWXWLRQV OLNH WKH &UHGLW Bureau to have access to the credit information of individuals and issue credit on that basis.

This way, a serial defaulter can be identiÀHG EHIRUH KH RU VKH JHWV PRUH ORDQV RU LI a defaulter attempts to leave the country.

Chijioke noted that Carbon has had to be careful with fund management, with $15 million as its major raise since 2015.

He said that when they started in 2015, Nigeria was not a big destination for foreign LQYHVWPHQW LQÁRZ DV LW LV QRZ “We had to think about releasing products that the customers wanted. Given the funds raised, we knew people wanted loans and so we stuck with that with the least cost as much as possible and did not digress into other services immediately. We have also had some disciplined investors too.”

Analysts believe one of the lessons learnt while running Diamond Bank was the culture of transparency and adherence to corporate governance.

2WKHU WRS ÀQWHFK FRPSDQLHV LQ 1LJHULD include Flutterwave, Paystack, Accelerex, PiggyVest, Paga, Interswitch and E-transact.

THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 9, 2022

21

INDUSTRY

Between Kogi Govt and Dangote Cement Lastweek,theKogiStateGovernmentinaHollywoodstuntfashionshutdowntheObajanafactory of Dangote Cement over allegations of tax evasion and unresolved ownership, a development which analysts said will be a big disincentive to investment, reports Festus Akanbi

Obajana Cement Factory

O

ne incident that promises to redefine the public-private partnership arrangement in Nigeria is the ongoing feud between the Kogi State Government and the management of Dangote Cement leading to the drastic and dramatic shutdown of the Obajana Cement factory of the company last Wednesday.

Going by media reports, the Kogi State government is alleging that it was shortchanged by the company in terms of ownership. It also labelled the company as a tax evader, two allegations that the company has vigorously denied. The Management of Dangote Cement Plc in one of its responses to the claims by the Kogi State government, firmly declared that the Obajana Cement plant in Kogi State is owned 100 per cent by it and that the invasion of the plant last Wednesday by armed vigilantes “on the orders of the state government” was illegal.

The climax of the breakdown in communication between the government and the company manifested last week when scores of the state’s vigilante members reportedly stormed the Obajana cement factory, where many of the company’s staff were wounded and the facility shut.

However, THISDAY gathered from a dependable source on Friday that the management of the company has decided to take the matter to court anytime this week.

According to the source, the crisis was fuelled by the refusal of Alhaji Aliko Dangote to succumb to blackmail by the state assembly which had summoned him for an explanation on the share arrangement of the company.

The source explained that a top official of the company sent to meet with the lawmakers was shunned by the state assemblymen who insisted that Alhaji Dangote must come in person.

When asked to respond to the allegation of tax evasion, the source disclosed that the allegation was just a mere smokescreen because the company does not owe any tax to the government.

“The company pays over N1billion as PAYE to the government. We are not owing a kobo and the evidence is there,” the source said.

Dangote Cement: We Own Obajana Cement 100% In his response to the claims by the state government, Group Managing Director (GMD), Dangote Cement Plc, Michel Puchercos and titled, “Illegal

Shutdown of Dangote Cement, Obajana Plant”, declared the firm’s full ownership of the Obajana plant, while berating the attack on the plant.

Puchercos said: “The Management of Dangote Cement Plc. wishes to inform members of the public, especially its customers and other stakeholders of the recent invasion of its Obajana Cement Plant, Kogi State by armed vigilantes on the orders of the state government.

“The vigilantes, led by some officials of the State government were acting on a resolution of the Kogi State House of Assembly on controversial tax claims; claims that the state government had also contradicted when he said the shutdown was due to an alleged invalid acquisition of the company

by Dangote Industries Limited.”

He said in the process of forcefully evicting the company’s workers, to enforce the illegal shutdown, the vigilantes shot at 27 of the workers and also destroyed some of the company’s property at the plant.

Puchercos declared: “We have taken steps to get the hoodlums apprehended by the law enforcement agencies, and we will ensure that full legal action is taken against them.

Meanwhile, watchers of the emerging drama have cautionedthatthecrisiswhichhasobstructednormal business activities of the cement manufacturer, has serious economic consequences unless the matter is quickly resolved.

An Abuja-based member of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), said the crackdown on Dangote Cement will send a wrong signal to potential industrialists not to commit their resources to areas where a smooth operation cannot be guaranteed.

“What the Kogi government is telling us is that private initiatives like the cement firm are not needed,” he stated.

He recalled that a similar drama played out when Dangote Refinery was about to start in Ogun State.

He also recalled that the location had to be shifted from Ogun State to Lagos when the then administration in Ogun State was proving difficult.

In their responses, members of the mining and host communities have condemned the Kogi State Government for what they described as an extrajudicial and unlawful deployment of the vigilantes to cause chaos in the Obajana community.

The spokesman for the Oyo Mining host community, David Oluruntoba, condemned the

act, stating the company had established a cordial relationship with the local community.

He said, “They called us to join them. But I told them that the company has not offended us. We just signed a Community Development Agreement (CDA) and the company has been helping us and providing us with jobs. What has the government done for us, nothing? There is no basis to support the government.”

A staff of Dangote Cement, Jibrin Abubakar, said the company’s workers who were shot during the invasion were currently receiving treatment at a medical facility.

Kogi Govt: Acquisition of Obajana Null and Void However, the Kogi State’s Commissioner for Information, Kingsley Fanwo, insisted that the state’s government has all the relevant documents to prove that the purported acquisition of Obajana

by Dangote was null and void.

He said Kogi State indigenes would not be intimidated into forgoing their birth rights to any individual or institution, no matter how highly placed, adding that Governor Yahaya Bello is committed to his inaugural promise that his administration “shall exist for the sole purpose of serving the superseding interests of the people of Kogi State”.

“There is no evidence of consideration paid

by Dangote Industries Limited to the Kogi State Government from the alleged transfer of Obajana Cement Company Plc and no dividend was paid to the state from the profits realised from the inception of Dangote Cement Company Plc to date.

“By the assignment of the three certificates of occupancy, the title in Obajana Cement Company Plc, still vests in Kogi State government as the sole owner.”

Speaker of the Kogi State House of Assembly, Matthew Kolawole, noted that the acquisition of the Obajana Cement Company by Dangote was without the resolution of the House of Assembly, which made the process null and void.

“It is clear that you cannot sell a state government property of any form without the resolution of the Kogi State House of Assembly. All the transfer process of the share capital to Dangote from Obajana by the previous administration was without any law backing it by the state House of Assembly,” Kolawole stated.

In his remarks, the governor said he took the bold step in line with his mandate to safeguard the lives and livelihood of the people of Kogi State, including residents, and to ensure their wellbeing.

The governor, however, said the state was open to discussions once the Dangote Group is ready to come clean.

“We received several petitions from the general public over this particular subject matter. In the past five to six years, all efforts to sit with the proprietors of the Dangote Conglomerate failed,” Bello said.

Questions Begging for Answers Another analyst noted that the transaction took place in 1992 under the guided democracy of General Ibrahim Babangida, saying it took place a few years after the state was created.

“Perhaps the state had problems with proper documentation. But Dangote should have its documentation of purchase,” he stated.

Speaking further about the development, he said, “the question to ask is if the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) also handled the Obajana plant transaction and whether the Kogi State Government had a 10% stake in it.

Other questions, according to him, are (1) Did the KSG give the federal government the power of attorney to sell its 10% on its behalf? (2) If the federal government got that power of attorney, did, it sell its stake and that of the KSG? (3) If both stakesweresold,didthefederalgovernmenttransfer the proceeds of 10% to the KSG? “The governor did not withdraw the CoO. He only used the state vigilantes to close the company down.

Not even policemen. That is dangerous. Imagine what he will use the vigilante for during elections.”

Another respondent who pleaded anonymity said that Yahaya Bello is saying that the state government has searched for evidence of payment and cannot find it.

“A transaction can have evidence of documentation. But what makes it complete is the purchase consideration. If that cannot be found and or was never made, then Dangote is in serious trouble.”

Intheeventthecompanygoestocourt,theanalyst believes it’s going to be a straightforward case.

He said, “This is a commercial transaction, not a political one. The way the courts treat commercial transactions is very straightforward. There are no technicalities involved. The laws of contract and conveyancing are pretty straightforward.”

22

T H I S DAY, T H E S U N DAY N E W S PA P E R • OCTOBER 9, 2022

CONVERSATION WITH MY BILLIONAIRE FRIEND ayo.arowolo@thisdaylive.com 08086447494 (SMS only) LESSONS NOTES MODEL STUDIES BINOCULARS

AYO AROWOLO

PERSONAL FINANCE

FIELD REPORT

Enlightened Wealth Builders are Power Networkers My boss, it would surprise you if I disclosed that wealthy people do the same things ordinary people do but do them differently. For instance, while ordinary people spend on impulse, wealthy people do their expenses on the last penny and discipline themselves not to spend outside the budget – Conversation with my Billionaire Friend Good habits can be developed through repetition. By incorporating behaviours, tasks and attitudes into regular routines, they usually become a habit, thus becoming natural and virtually effortless – Kellie Sullivan

W

hen I first came to my first Billionaire Friend’s residence, I wondered discreetly how he earned so much wealth. I used to think that my Friend and other wealthy people had special DNAs that made them effortlessly earn wealth. One evening, I expressed my ideas and asked him: do you people (rich people) know some things that others don’t know?

His reply surprised me: “My boss, it would surprise you if I disclosed that wealthy people do the same things ordinary people do but just that they do them differently. For instance, while ordinary people spend on impulse, wealthy people do their expenses on the last penny and discipline themselves not to spend outside the budget.”

In the past couple of years, I have embarked on a project involving interviewing successful people and asking them the same questions: what do they do that ordinary people do not do? I have done over 40 such interviews. Their answers surprised me but corroborated what my Billionaire Friend shared with me during one of our sessions. I discovered that successful wealth-builders have unique habits developed through practice. We are looking at one such habit.

In our first field report, we focused on the subject of building generational wealth, and our binoculars were on Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, co-founder of Access Bank and Chairman of The Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation, who was reported as creating models that would allow him to create wealth that outlives him. His eyes are on building an enduring legacy as a habit.

In this edition, we are focusing on another powerful dimension of the habits of enlightened wealth builders, the habit of building power networks as one of the strategies used by wealth builders to accumulate wealth and, not surprisingly, our binoculars are on my boss, Mr Nduka Obaigbena, Editor in Chief of THISDAY and Arise Media Group, who has been described by many as one of the most powerful networkers in the land.

Our boss is an enigma. It is impossible to fit him into a specific mould. Never! Indeed, trying to describe this prince of the Owa Kingdom in Delta State is like calling out blindfolded men to feel an elephant and, on that basis, asking them to step out to describe who an elephant is. You can only describe the part you touch.

While coordinating a documentary project we

YOU

Obaigbena

But in this edition, we want to focus on the description

by Bashorun Dele Momodu, the foundation editor at LEADERS AND COMPANY, Publishers of THISDAY who aptly named Mr Obaigbena, “Mr interconnectivity” wanted to present as one of the surprise packages for his 60th-anniversary celebration, I interviewed over 25 of the people we can describe as Friends of Nduka Obaigbena (FoNO) and asked them to attempt a description of him. What was evident was that you could not pigeonhole this enigmatic man into a single narrative. Impossible!

Eniola Bello, Managing Director, THISDAY, and one of the foundation staff of THISDAY, says ‘Nduka is a crazy fellow positively’; Professor Pat Utomi calls him a ‘bulldozer’; Otunba Niyi Adebayo regards him as ‘tenacious’; Tunde Lemo, former CBN Deputy Governor thinks he is ‘miracle worker of the media’; Prince Tony Momoh regards him as ‘cerebral’; Lai Mohammed, Minister of Information says the Duke is ‘incredible’; Funke Egbemode, President of the Nigeria Guild of Editor sees him as ‘the innovative man of the media’; Tunji Bello, former Chairman of THISDAY Editorial Board says he is a ‘restless innovator’; Dr. Alimi Abdulrasak, Nduka’s friend of over 40 years coined these words to describe him: ‘versatility and strength in the face of all opposition’; Dr. Alim Abubakre, Chair of Texem, UK, believes he is a ‘bold innovator’;

AND YOUR

Senator Lanre Tejuosho regards him as ‘a fiercely loyal person’, Lanre Arogundade, says Nduka is ‘enigmatic’; Dare Babarinsa thinks he is a ‘dynamite’; Okagbue Aduba, Thisday’s foundation managing editor, says the publisher is ‘non-conformist’; Tim Kayode Akano, CEO of New Horizon Systems Solution, a passionate fan of Nduka, says the chairman ‘has the resilience of the Japanese, the creativity of the Americans, the wisdom of the British and the strength of the Chinese.’

But in this edition, we want to focus on the description

by Bashorun Dele Momodu, the foundation editor at LEADERS AND COMPANY, Publishers of THISDAY who aptly named Mr Obaigbena, “Mr interconnectivity”.

According to BOB DEE: “His connectivity is second to none. Nduka would get any president. There is nobody he cannot get as long as he has his phone with him”.

Even though I have worked closely with him for a couple of years, I witnessed for the first time the manifestation of that description by Bob Dee at the funeral events of his late mother, Princess Margarete Obaigbena. Owa-Oyibu Community in Ika North-east Local Government Area of Delta State, the venue of the funeral event, was invaded from Friday, August 19th through Sunday, August 21st 2022, with creme de la creme of society who came to pay their last respect. I happened to be on 15-member organising committee for the event: myself, Israel Iwegbu, THISDAY Deputy Managing Director, and Kayode Komolafe, THISDAY OMBUDSMAN, were assigned the role of taking care of everything about the welfare of the Very Very Important Personalities (VVIP) coming for the events. Myself and K.K. were stationed at Asaba International Airport for some time. Many private jets landed at the very small airport. I counted up to 12 private jets apart from the three chartered planes by the publisher to convey guests from Abuja and Lagos to the events.

Princess Obaigbena was also mother to Benjamin Obaigbena, a retired director at the NNPC, as well as Princess Isioma Ukwa, Prince Alan Glory Obaigbena, late Prince Rotimi Obaigbena, and Princess Ogochukwu Aneke. But many people can vow that 90% of the VIPs that came to the event were direct guests of Prince Nduka Obaigbena.

ROLL CALL

As captured by Chiemelle Ezeobi, Group Features Editor of THISDAY, who did a summary of her coverage for me, at the funeral were businessmen and women, politicians, captains of industry, political juggernauts and eminent Nigerians from all walks of life, who converged on the hitherto quiet town to give a grand royal funeral service to the late Matriarch of the Obaigbena family.

Present at the event were Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi; Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo; Delta State Governor and vicepresidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Ifeanyi Okowa; Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Godwin Emefiele and wife; businessman Oscar Ibru and wife. Others include Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote; former Executive Director Nigeria Export Promotion Council

(NEPC), Segun Awolowo; Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun; Ekiti State Governor, Kayode Fayemi; Minority Leader of House of Representatives, Ndudi Elumelu and Founder/Chairman of Zenith Bank Plc, Mr Jim Ovia.

Not left out were Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, chairman of Coronation Merchant Bank, Herbert Wigwe, CEO of Access Bank Plc, the Governor of Edo State, Mr Godwin Obaseki; United Bank of Africa (UBA) Group Chairman, Mr Tony Elumelu; former governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Anambra State, Mr Valentine Ozigbo; Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Governor of Kebbi State, Atiku Bagudu; and former Governor of Cross Rivers State, Mr Donald Duke.

Senator representing Delta South Senatorial District, James Manager; former Ogun State Governor, Olusegun Osoba; Senator Sanusi Daggash; Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Lucky Irabor; Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON), Mr Ahmed Kuru, and Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Banking and Currency, Mr Victor Nwokolo, were also present.

Also present were the National Commissioner for Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in charge of Akwa-Ibom, Bayelsa and Rivers, Mrs May Agbamuche-Mbu; former Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Mr Dakuku Peterside; and former Governor of Edo State and former National Chairman of APC, Adams Oshiomhole.

Many people questioned quietly how a single individual could command such a massive gathering of who is who from almost all the important sectors of the economy and all the geographical regions.

WHAT MAKES HIM TICK AS A NETWORKER?

I once asked an individual, a medical entrepreneur, who has remained in his power network for a long time to share with me what she thought, made Mr Obaigbena tick as a networker. Here is her response: “There are a few things I have learned from him: 1. Attention to detail “Everywhere he goes when I have seen him in the banks, for example, he asks for the TV to be turned to Arise. He pays intense attention to every aspect of his craft”.

2. He sets the agenda before it becomes the agenda “A good journalist reports the truth but doesn’t create it. I can remember when he decided to run programs on healthcare years before it became a focus due to Covid-19. He is always ahead of his time, shaping the agenda before it becomes an agenda”.

3. He helps, often when there is nothing to be gained in return “He has helped countless other people and me not because we are politically useful to him or because we have money. But because it is just a habit. A habit that I have already incorporated into my life. Just being kind because it’s the right thing to do, not because of what will be given in return”.

Read the full article at https://www.thisdaylive.com

MONEY

WEEKLY PERSONAL FINANCE TIPS FROM MY 1ST BILLIONAIRE FRIEND

M

Live Within Your Means

y boss has instructed me to share with you weekly financial tips that can transform your financial life.

So, here we go: The major error I see many people make is allowing their tastes to catch up with their rising status and income. As the marketing manager at a manufacturing company, I lived at Olodi Apapa, adjoining Ajegunle and paid a rent of N2,400 per annum. I later became an executive director at 31 years of age, with a much remarkably enhanced and enticing salary

and allowances per annum, but I continued to reside in this rented accommodation for another 18 months. My uplift in income and status did not make me discontinue my rental of this two-bedroom flat that I was occupying in Olodi Apapa for the next 18 months after attaining my uplifted income and status.

I, however, put my much-increased payment together and obtained a cooperative loan. Within two years, I bought a plot of land off Allen Avenue, Ikeja, for N125,000, on which I built my fivestorey commercial property. It now fetches me

millions of Naira per annum. I did this rather than make a residential home for my family. We later moved to another rented apartment on Oduduwa Crescent in Ikeja, GRA, owned by the famous industrialist - Chief Samuel Adedoyin, where we stayed for 12 years on such low rent at increasing career and investment incomes.

As executive director, I started by putting my income in savings, investments and in a cooperative staff society, from which I borrowed N500,000, took two years of my housing allowance, and sold a couple of my shares to build the five-storey

commercial property in 1990.

Recall that I continued to reside for 18 months at Olodi, Apapa, before moving to GRA (in Ikeja), where we continued to stay in the rented threebedroom bungalow, notwithstanding my greatly enhanced income and status. Therefore, I generally lived at minimum expenses for maximum savings and investments. My admonition is this: never allow your progress in life to influence your taste all the time.

See you next week when I shall share another nugget.

OPI NION

123

T H I S D AY MONDAYSunday MARCH 14, 20222022 9 October, Vol 27. No 10043

opinion@thisdaylive.com

www.thisdaylive.com

A FOOT ON THE NECK OF CREATIVITY IN ABUJA

AISHA SHUAIBU canvasses a conducive environment where artists can ply their trade

For a constitution to be legitimate it must emanate from the people, writes NICHOLAS EBEHIKHALU

NIGERIA NEEDS AN AUTOCHTHONOUS CONSTITUTION

T See Page 24

A LAND OF PROMISE

Akwa Ibom celebrates 35 years of remarkable progress, writes MUSA YAKUBU

See Page 24

EDITORIAL

EDUCATION AND THE INSURGENCY

See Page 45

he phrase ‘autochthonous constitution’ can be better understood if the word ‘autochthonous’ is defined. It is derived from a Greek word ‘autochthones’ literally translated as ‘people or mortals who have sprung from the indigenous soil’ or people who are ‘indigenous inhabitants to a country’. A constitution is therefore said to be autochthonous if it derives its force and validity from its own people or if it is home grown or homemade, native and indigenous to the people and not imposed by colonial masters or imperial powers. A constitution is an expression of the will of the people, and it is an instrument of government made by the people which establish the norms and principles on which they want to be governed. According to Prof.

Ben Nwabueze, a constitution is defined as a body of principles according to which a state is organized. The constitution is not just an ordinary document but a document that binds all authorities and persons in a country.

One obvious deduction from this conceptual clarification is that the constitution must be owned and produced by the people, that is, it must be a product that must emanate from the sovereignty of the people. The question therefore is, did the 1999 constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria emanate from the people?

At various fora, a Nigerian constitutional lawyer, Dr. Mike Ozekhome has consistently provided an answer. According to him, the 1999 constitution is an illegitimate document, a militarily imposed document. It is a decree no. 24 of 1999 which was promulgated by the General Abdulsalami Abubakar military junta of 28 members of the Provisional Ruling Council. It was given to the late Justice Niki Tobi’s panel (a cerebral jurist of the Supreme Court) to couple together…, hence the constitution is wholly an illegitimate jurisprudential child of the military junta. Prof Akin Oyebode while delivering a lecture titled ‘the Nigeria conundrum and the way forward’ said that as far as he is concerned, the subsisting/extant 1999 constitution that provides the legal framework for the country’s socio-economic, political, spiritual, secular and moral life, is irredeemably defective and should be discarded altogether, for the country to make progress rather than going round in circles in a manner reminiscent of the potter’s will – all motion, no movement. We cannot continue living a lie by calling a military decree, which propagates an untruth against itself, the country’s constitution. It should be jettisoned and replaced with a more acceptable instrument which adheres to the tenets of true federalism.

The culmination of the foregoing is that the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria did not emanate from the people even though the preamble of the constitution has it that “we the people of Federal Republic of Nigeria having firmly and solemnly resolved to live in unity and harmony… and to provide for a constitution… do hereby make and give to ourselves the following constitution”. There was no time the people of Nigeria came together to make and gave to themselves the 1999 constitution. Therefore the 1999 constitution is not autochthonous; rather, the constitution was imposed or foisted on the people by the military junta.

The story of the Nigerian constitution has been largely, an account of tale of colonially

imposed constitution or militarily imposed/ based constitution. Beginning from the 1922 Sir Hugh Clifford’s constitution, to the 1946 Sir Arthur Richard’s constitution which established the foundation of federalism by dividing Nigeria into North, West and East Regions; 1951 Sir John Macpherson’s constitution; 1954 Sir Oliver Littleton’s constitution which first operationalised the federal structure for Nigeria by making Lagos the Federal Capital Territory, distinct from the Western Region, with each region having its own judicial arm, up to appellate court; 1960 Independence constitution which provided for parliamentary system of government; and 1963 Republican constitution which established a properly constituted parliamentary system of government; 1979 General Olusegun Obasanjo’s constitution; 1989 General Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida’s constitution which was never used one day; the botched 1995 General Sani Abacha’s draft constitution and to the 1999 General Abdulsalami Abubakar’s constitution. Apart from the 1963 republican constitution, none of the constitutions within the time under review originated from the people.

Until 1960, Nigeria was under British Colonial Rule and from 1960 to 1966 when Major Patrick Chukwuma Kaduna Nzeogwu played out the first military coup; Nigeria practiced parliamentary system democracy based on British model. Still and all, between 1979 and 1983 and from 1999 to date, Nigeria is practicing presidential democracy founded on the United States of America’s model. The United States of America from where Nigeria adopted the presidential democracy is a good example of a country that has an autochthonous constitution.

6R LW LV VLJQLÀFDQW DW WKLV FOLPD[ WKDW WKH process and arrangement that gave birth to American constitution is known. The United States’ constitution is a constitution that emanated from popular referendum and plebiscite of the people. As a result of the dismal failure of the Article of Confederation, 55 representatives of the 13 colonies which later turned states (the different Confederates of America who had already gained independence from the British in 1776) gathered together in a Constitutional Convention on May 14, 1786 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, ostensibly or with the goal of amending the Article of Confederation, in order to have an American constitution (or a new constitution), with federating units not too weak to be trampled upon and not too strong to overpower the federal government, and to cede some powers to the Government at the

centre. When the delegates to the conference or the constitutional convention concluded that the Article of Confederation was beyond repairs, they proceeded to change the entire form of government at its very root by making a draft constitution. On September 17, 1788 there was a ratification of the draft constitution. On March 4, 1789 a new constitution was enacted and came into effect. That was how America had their autochthonous constitution they call American constitution today.

Present in the Constitutional Convention was George Washington who eventually became the first President of America and some other great men like James Madison, George Mason, Roger Sherman, William Paterson and James Wilson. It was at that constitutional conference or convention that the agreement to adopt the principle or the doctrine of separation of powers was undertaken. The principle which John Locke, while writing on his observation in England in the 17th century, captured inter alia: “it may be too great a temptation to human frailty, for the same persons who have the powers of making laws to also have in their hands the powers to execute them, because they will exempt themselves from obedience to the laws they make, and suit the laws both in making and execution, to their own private advantage.”

It is as a result of this process of constitution making in America that the preamble of United States’ Constitution testifies as to the autochthonous nature when it states: “We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity; do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.”

It is significant to note that “We the people...” is used in the preamble of American constitution because the people came together to birth the constitution. Nigerians never gathered to make the 1999 constitution, and therefore for the constitution to have in its preamble, “We the people...” is a misnomer and a lie against the Constitution. It is high time Nigeria took the example or path of the United States of America.

It is therefore humbly suggested that the only way to bring about legitimate constitution of the people to Nigeria is to institute a process of constitution making like the way Americans did on 14th May 1786 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

We must take notice that you cannot build something on nothing and expect it to stand, rather it will collapse. So, Nigeria cannot choose the expedition or a continuous journey of constitutional amendments, a journey without destination. This is because, the 1999 constitution is a jurisprudential child of illegitimate background and no amount of constitutional amendments can cure the illegitimacy. All the fundamental flaws of deficiencies, inadequacies, and insufficiencies that characterize the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria can only be cured by popular plebiscite or referendum in a constitutional convention.

Dr. Ebehikhalu is Associate Professor of Urban and Regional Planning, University of Abuja

2 24

T H I S D AY SUNDAY OCTOBER 9, 2022

AISHA SHUAIBU canvasses a conducive environment where artists can ply their trade

A FOOT ON THE NECK OF CREATIVITY IN ABUJA

As the modern city it was designed to be, the Federal Capital does well in recognising and promoting African artists, SDUWLFXODUO\ ORFDO RQHV 7KH FLW\ LV ÀOOHG with art lovers who regularize exhibitions, festivals, and creative spaces where they socialise, celebrate and support African art.

It has become a culture within the creative community to seek out the best and experience their work together. These local artists and artisans are majorly made up of low-income earning Nigerians, reliant on their work to earn a living. They do this through commissioned work or the sale of their sculptures, paintings, woven baskets, beadworks, precious gems, tie-dye clothing attires, and a variety of other artefacts.

More than often, the spaces these local artists work in are temporary structures that are a moving target for regulatory boards and agencies who rightly do their job in clearing illegal structures in the city.

Arts and crafts villages are loved and frequently visited by Abuja art lovers, however, there seem to be more artists than there are art villages to house them. Artists with no permanent spaces to work in are displaced every few years, posing an issue to their sustainable growth. The potential of these artists to grow into more established businesses can only be achieved through proper regulation and management by the responsible MDAs. TheNationalCouncilforArtsandCulture (NCAC) is one of the 21 departments and agencies under the Ministry of Information and Culture, founded for the preservation and promotion of the creative arts for sustainable growth and development in Nigeria. Agencies with related mandates are the National Gallery of Art (NGA) and the Center for Blacks and African Arts and Culture (CBAAC). Although these bodies all exist under the regulation and management of the Ministry, the creative community continues to experience setbacks such as access to infrastructure to accommodate the vast and versatile artists and artisans, a database and regulatory formula to ensure that they are operating credible and tax compliant businesses, and access to funding to harness, empower and develop their crafts. The impact of the preservation of our local artists and artisans on the community that enjoys and supports them is the overall development of the creative industry as a whole. Structure is NH\ LQ À[LQJ WKH HFRV\VWHP RI DQ\ LQGXVWU\ The most recent incident reported out of the Abuja creative community was the demolition of the Jabi Art Village, which was awkwardly located along the airport road of the Jabi / Lifecamp district. The art village showcased a collection of locally produced, mostly handmade artefacts RI ÀQH TXDOLW\ DQG DWWUDFWHG FXVWRPHUV including foreigners to its space made up of what some called “ideal souvenirs from 1LJHULDµ 6RPH RI WKH EHQHÀWV RI DQ DUW village are its contribution to culture and tourism, and the exposure it gives to the

quality of our local raw materials. These artists have produced unique artefacts for commercial spaces, eco-friendly materials for homes, customised sculptures and paintings, and a range of other exquisite works. An art village is a place of expression and adventure for those who enjoy creating.

The Jabi Art Village demolition sparked outrage that resulted in many calling out the Ministry of FCT for not doing enough towards the preservation of these spaces.

The truth, however, is that art village in particular was illegally operating on premises that belonged to a real estate company. The company had allegedly spent two years giving notice to the artists to relocate, which landed on deaf ears.

Unfortunately, in the afternoon of October 4th, 2022, the art village was demolished and the artists became instantly displaced.

Accountability must be taken by both the artists and artisans who worked at the village as well as the responsible agencies under the Ministry of FCT and the Ministry of Information and Culture in ensuring that these situations do not become a trend. To reduce public outrage and curb the spread of fake news, clear information should be passed between the relevant agencies and the general public in addressing such situations. There is also a need for the Ministry to educate local artists RQ WKH SURFHVVHV LQYROYHG LQ EHQHÀWLQJ from the provisions of its agencies. Should they be unable to support them for whatever reasons, that should be clearly communicated as well. The destruction of artefacts during the demolition of the Jabi Art Village was unfortunate but avoidable.

It is indeed disheartening to the arts community of Abuja to lose a place that was loved and treasured. It is also an opportunity for the Ministry of Information and Culture to recognise the demand for such services and develop a means of generating revenue through these local artists, towards their own growth and development.

During a parliamentary session with the House of Representatives Committee on Culture and Tourism in 2021, the Minister of Information and Culture said that the Ministry has had limitations and called on the Federal Government to allocate more funding to its development. The VXP RI 1 ZDV DSSURYHG in the 2022 budget and allocated to the Ministry. Looking at the broader picture, the development of culture and tourism still has a long way to go. There is work to be done by the federal government and the Ministry in closely examining the allocation of those funds. Inactive agencies, incompetent personnel, and dated methods must be dissolved and replaced with more competent individuals and modern methods. Sustainable development through the creative industry will require innovative and forward-thinking leadership that Shuaibu is a member of THISDAY Editorial Board

Akwa Ibom celebrates 35 years of remarkable progress, writes MUSA YAKUBU

A LAND OF PROMISE At the age of 35, a man or woman is still a young person, eyeing the middle age.

For a political entity or a community, a 35-year-old is more like a child. Nigeria as D \HDU ROG FRXQWU\ LV VWLOO OLNH D FKLOG especially when you consider nations that are centuries old and still bustling with the brio of adolescents.

Hence, we can appreciate a state like Akwa Ibom when it turned 35 years old, and its understated governor, Udom Emmanuel, has showcased a dazzle of accomplishments that he has brought to bear on the community within a space of just over seven years.

It was instructive that we can say one of the highlights was the focus on the young, with the installation of the essay competition and TXL] ,W ZDV ÁDJJHG RII ZLWK WKH VREULHW\ RI an academic atmosphere. But when it was time to earn their plaudits, the winners SXIIHG ZLWK ÁRXULVK 7KH HVVD\ WRSLF ZDV A land of limitless promise. Which is quite a proper way to approach a state that has adopted dream over decay.

And the evidence of possibilities was on hand in the activities that marked the event.

It showed that the governor has worked on land and in the air. The world is now familiar with how he has disrupted air travel with a blazing new airline, with a blazing raft of new aircraft, and blazing new set of services. From nothing, he conjured into the nation’s air travel something of a miracle. )URP ]HUR LW MHWWHG WR EHFRPH 1LJHULD·V ÀUVW FKRLFH ,ERP $LU LV KHUH WR VWD\ KHUH WR Á\ But it was not front and centre in the activities of the 35th anniversary, the state being content to serve as its angels in the sky while they walked the earth with activities that included church services that started and ended proceedings that lasted over a week. There were categories of actions. Other than the spiritual, there ZDV WHFKQRORJ\ KHDOWKFDUH D ÁXUU\ RI URDG infrastructure, attention to the females in gender sensitivity, arts and culture, project sites, the environment, photography contests and, of course, sports.

2QH VLJQLÀFDQW GD\ ZDV 0RQGD\ WK The governor with his long entourage of VXSSRUWHUV HOHFWHG RIÀFLDOV DQG DSSRLQWHHV undertook a long walk and long drives and visited a roll call of project sites. They LQFOXGHG WKH &RFRQXW IDFWRU\ WKH ÀUVW RI LWV kind in this part of the world; the Jubilee Syringe factory, a delicately woven idea to bring medical care to the people by taking care of a rare area of need and provision; the Kings Flour Mill, for its economic value and food on the table; for sports, he took on the stadium at Eket, with its picturesque appeal and impressive architecture, and making it into a duel of national unity with a match between its local team and the one from katsina; Nto Edino Road/ Bridge; Ituk Mbang Isolation; to support Ibom Air, he visited the MRO/ International Terminal noted for its high-tech facility and smartest in the country. He confronted the environment with the IBB Flood Control.

The Dakkada Smart Building has a sort of showy quality to it, the tallest in the region, its facility for business and its appeal to the Lagos-centric oil elite. Of course for God, not far away from Dakkada is the Worship Centre, and to God be all the glory. Other offering, too: Ring Road III; Etinan-Ndon Eyo Road and Efaini PKO Factory Phase 2. $OO RQ RQH GD\ DQ DUGXRXV GD\ D IXOÀOOLQJ feast for the eyes.

But we cannot miss the road infrastructure, an array of them across Akwa Ibom State. For instance, no one could miss the commissioning of the internal roads like the Rev. Akwatang Road, Mbiabong Ikot Essien Road, Rev. Amaowo Avenue, Obong Okon and Professor Stella Idiong Arts gallery Street, also internal roads in Atan Offot in phases one and two. The dualized 29 kilometre-Ndon Eyo

Road has two bridges and a spur from Mbioto-Ekpene Nten to Ikot Akpan.

Also the 2.59 kilometre Atiamkpat – Ikot Ese Ishiet Road has a spur in Onna. This is accompanied with the Emergency Gully Erosion rehabilitation works at Nung Ikono Ufok- Ishiet Road. The nine-kilometre Ulliong-Edikor-Uduetta Road also has a spur in Udung Uko local government area. The 13.1km AnuaIfa-Mbak Etoi-Adadia Road has two roundabouts. He also commissioned the 14km Abak Nsekhe Akpa Nkuk-Ikot Etim-Ikot Ikara road phase III, the 4.94 km Ibesit Okpkoro/Ikot Ibritam Road as well as the Nung Ukim Ikono Akpa Etok Ekpang Road with spur to Ibiaku Ntok Okpo Road.

The naming of some of those roads highlights the governor’s nod to the value of the spiritual as well as the stellar LQGLYLGXDOV LQ RWKHU ÀHOGV DV VWDWHVPHQ and men of war. We can understand why he commissioned and unveiled a statue in honour of a state hero in the person of Air Commodore Idongesit Nkanga at the Indongesit Nkanga Secretariat.

For healthcare, he also commissioned the Ikot Abasi General hospital and a theatre building donated by the engineer Uwem Okoko, CEO, HENSEK Integrated Services Ltd. Apart from commissioning a centre for gender-based violence, the event was festooned by a distinguished DUUD\ RI ÀUVW ODGLHV IURP DFURVV WKH states and it brought colour and a sense of inclusivity to the anniversary.

They came. They chatted. They celebrated. Gov. Emmanuel was on hand WR VXSSRUW KLV ZLIH DQG ÀUVW ODG\ 0DUWKD as they enjoyed the visit and the festive air.

Of course, the event did not end without some special recognitions at a banquet where a few distinguished citizens came up for mention. But standing out were the winners of the essay and competitions. Unmistakable though were the awards to Master Inyang Valour Mbre and Master Uwakmfom Unwana Jacob. Iyang scored parallel A1 in WAEC and 341 in JAMB. Uwakmfon won the African gold medal and other awards in mathematics.

The series of events did not make the governor a loner as personages from across the country attended, including two ex-presidents, Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan. Aminu Tambuwal, the acting chairman of Nigeria Governors’ Forum, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, Delta State Gov. Ifeanyi Okowa, former Senate president Bukola Saraki, former katsina State governor Shema were some of the high-profile attendees. Thirty five years may be a child in community years, but the doings of Gov. Emmanuel makes Akwa Ibom State soar like an adult.

Yakubu writes from Uyo State University

49

T H I S D AY SUNDAY OCTOBER 9, 2022

EDITORIAL

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com

EDUCATION AND THE INSURGENCY The authorities must go all out to ensure that children learn in protected environment

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t the 2022 National Delegates Conference of the Nigeria Union of Teachers last week, the Chief Executive of Teachers’ Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN), Josiah Ajiboye, painted the ruinous impact of the 13-year-old insurgency on education in the Northeast.

He revealed that repeated attacks on schools by Boko +DUDP DQG RWKHU WHUURU DIÀOLDWHV KDYH FODLPHG WKH lives of more than 2,295 teachers while about 19,000 others were displaced between 2009 and 2022. Boko Haram, whose underpinning philosophy is “western education is sinful,” also led the destruction or forced closure of some 1500 schools while more than 600,000 children have lost access to education due to the DUPHG FRQÁLFW The killings, abductions of staff and students and the destruction of school structures have impacted on students’ enrolment and attendance, besides creating classrooms without teachers in many northern states.

It all started with the 25th February 2014 brutal attacks on Federal Government College, Buni Yadi, Yobe State. It was designed to instill fear in the minds of children and their teachers and to discourage the parents from sending their wards to school. On that tragic night, no fewer than 51 students were murdered.

Attacks on other schools were to follow across many states. Thousands of boys and girls abducted from VHYHUDO VFKRROV SDUWLFXODUO\ DW WKH SHDN RI WKH FRQÁLFW were used as suicide bombers, while the girls were also subjected to all kinds of violence, including forced “marriages” and sexual violence.

In 2018, some criminal gangs abducted 108 schoolgirls from Dapchi before most were eventually returned after a controversial deal in which a Christian girl (Leah Sharibu) was left behind reportedly on account of her faith. Last year, gunmen killed three people at the College of Agriculture and Animal Science in Bakura, Zamfara State, and kidnapped 15 students and four staff. In December 2020, motorbikeriding bandits attacked Government Secondary School, Kankara in Katsina State to ferry away about 300 students. Some weeks later, they also snatched pupils and a teacher of an Islamic seminary heading

home after school in the same state. In February last year, a school pupil was killed, and 27 others were abducted by armed men from their school in Kagara, Niger State.

The list of these atrocities is almost endless and responsible for why many parents would rather keep their children out of school. “Attacks on education create a ripple effect and set in motion a range of negative impacts,” said Ajiboye, “such as loss of education, early marriage, early pregnancy, and stigma associated with sexual violence and children born from rape, all of which can dramatically affect female students’ futures.” Indeed, Manuel Fotaine, United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) director for Emergency Programmes has long noted that when schools are under repeated attacks and students become targets “not only are their lives shattered, but the future of the nation is also stolen.”

The spate of violence has prompted many to look out for ways of safeguarding students and teachers from physical threats and generally making the schools safe for study. The Safe Schools Initiative launched in 2014 after the Chibok kidnap was meant to counter the growing attacks on the right to education and to build community security groups to promote safe zones for education, consisting of teachers, parents, police and community leaders. Endorsed by the federal government in May 2015, the Safe School Initiative, with the support of national and international organisations, has developed a number of measures to rebuild schools and provide improved security for schools, particularly in the northeast. But it is unclear KRZ PDQ\ VFKRROV KDYH EHQHÀWWHG DQG KRZ HIIHFWLYH the measures are.

While we must commend our military for the relative improvement in security, all indicators VXJJHVW WKH WKUHDW LV QRW DERXW WR ÁDJ DV PDQ\ schools are located in rural areas, making them easy targets. Last week, the TRCN boss called for the full implementation of the Safe Schools guidelines. To the extent that the protection of the child and the promotion of their well-being are closely linked to development and well-being of the society, the authorities must heed the call.

While we must commend our military for the relative improvement in security, all indicators suggest the threat is not about to flag as many schools are located in rural areas, making them easy targets

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LETTERS

NIGERIA AND THE PANGS OF CHILDBIRTH

Nigeria`s recently celebrated 62nd Independence anniversary brought with LW D IUHVK RSSRUWXQLW\ WR UHÁHFW RQ KRZ IDU the country has come as an independent country.

By all accounts, Lord Lugard`s seeming masterstroke of 1914 was not borne out of D GHHS UHÁHFWLRQ 0D\EH LW KDG LPPHGLDWH HFRQRPLF DQG DGPLQLVWUDWLYH EHQHÀWV %XW it was incredibly shortsighted in that it did not take into account the implications of bringing together two diametrically different regions of the country in what was at best a marriage of convenience.

In fact, it is a marriage that has grown increasingly strained with time.

Matters came to a head a few years after independence when military coup followed military coup until the catastrophic civil war of 1967-70 saw the illusions of one independent and united country explode in a plume of smoke.

For Nigeria, the journey so far has been

RQH IXOO RI PDQ\ GLIÀFXOW WHVWV DQG WULDOV ,W has been an excruciating experimentation RI ZKDW ZRUNV IRU SHRSOH DQG VSHFLÀFDOO\ what works in the country. For many years, nothing has really worked. Even the little that has worked has worked largely by chance than by design. What has been left is a country that has known no little fragility.

Of course, the story has been replete with square pegs in round holes. So many of Nigeria`s struggle as a country started when some military men following a pattern that was then rampant across Africa in the 60s and 70s, leapt into the corridors of power.

For many years, their actions which were informed more by avarice than anything else proved disruptive of Nigeria`s fragile democracy. The fact that no one knew when they would strike was enough to elicit the kind of fear and anxiety that no serious country should ever have to experience.

When they did strike, they were often ruthless, digging in their heels, enjoying years in power during which they successfully laid to rest many of Nigeria`s febrile attempts at building solid institutions.

The less said about their decimation of the Nigerian civil society and their alienation of the Nigerian diaspora and international community, the better. But can enough ever be said of the pervasive corruption which practically became a principle of state policy under the junta before going on to acquire chilling notoriety? That till this day, outrageous sums of money stolen by the now deceased former Head of State Sani Abacha and stashed away in foreign countries continue to be repatriated back to the country in tranches amidst fear that they may yet be stolen speaks of the pervasive power corruption wields in Nigeria.

All these give a biting background to

the blight that has bulldozed a benighted country in the last seven years under the All Progressives Congress. The party may have inherited a riot of rot from the Peoples Democratic Party in 2015 but it was inconceivable that the country would head downhill in spite of effusive promises.

With the 2023 general elections hurtling ever closer, Nigerians would be fed into the cauldron of choice acutely aware that whosoever they choose and whoever they choose would have drastic consequences.

In a country carved apart by ethnic and religious differences, are Nigerians ready to risk the uncertainties that may yet yield the highest returns for themselves and their unborn?

In a country caught in the pangs of childbirth, are there enough midwives WR DVVLVW LQ ZKDW KDV EHHQ D GLIÀFXOW ELUWK" Kene Obiezu, keneobiezu@gmail.com

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WEEKLY PULL-OUT

9.10.2022

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FUNMILAYO WAHEED-ADEKOJO DECONSTRUCTING GENDER STEREOTYPE She has shattered the glass ceilings in a male-dominated profession through her consistency and zeal to excel. Funmilayo Waheed-Adekojo, the Managing Director/CEO of Funmi Ayinke Nigeria Limited, a construction outfit, is a pacesetter in deconstructing gender stereotypes in her choice of career path. The Ondo State-born Waheed-Adekojo’s story is even more compelling having dumped Medical Laboratory Science to find her destiny in engineering. She recounts this story of setbacks and triumphs to Funke Olaode

t less than 40 years, she falls into the category of unsung accomplished young Nigerian women professionals who are doing extraordinary things. Born in 1983 in Arigidi Akoko Ondo State, this construction professional’s story is that of determination and zeal against odds. Funmilayo WaheedAdekojo sat for Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination twice and Universities Matriculation Examination four times. Today, she is a certified mechanical engineer whose works speak for themselves in various locations across Nigeria under her brand name, Funmi Ayinke Nigeria Limited. She also sits atop Funmi Ayinke Music Records and Funmi Ayinke Humanity Foundation, which has continued to assist the less privileged.

But looking at her life trajectory, the setbacks and later triumph, WaheedAdekojo wouldn’t totally agree that she is a child of circumstances.

Rather, a child who is constantly in life searching for purpose. Though it gave her the initial setback, she had the last laugh.

“I am the first born of three kids,” she recalled growing up. “My father was a medical doctor and my mum is a primary teacher (retired now).

We lost our dad and I want to say kudos to my mother for being a strong woman. She didn’t remarry.

She stood by us and she used all the ‘cooperative’ of this world and her money to put us through life. I watched her doing everything to see us through life. Today, my siblings and I are graduates. My younger brother is an engineer too and my sister is a chartered accountant,” WaheedAdekojo extolled the virtues of her mother and mothers generally.

Growing up under a medical doctor father, Waheed-Adekojo was drawn into the medical profession naturally. And losing her father at a very young age, she also wanted to fill the vacuum. The decision later became a pipe dream having failed the Universities Matriculation Examination four times.

“I failed to meet the cut off mark in UME. I put my dream of medicine aside and settled for Medical Laboratory Tech at the Ladoke Akintola University of Science and Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso, Oyo State hoping that I would cross at 200 level. That decision was also aborted.”

Waheed-Adekojo’s dream was drifting away having realised that she wasn’t called for a medicalrelated career. She decided to switch to engineering and by this time she had lost two academic sessions.

She admitted that it was a difficult decision but she was determined and after weighing the pros and cons,

ASSISTANT EDITOR OLUFUNKE OLAODE/victoria.olaode@thisdaylive.com.

T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R ˾OCTOBER 9, 2022

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COVER In life, I realise the spoon you were born with doesn’t matter, it is the spoon that you define for yourself that matters she crossed to the mechanical engineering department, starting from scratch.

“This new decision also came with its own challenge because I have a deficiency in Mathematics. I went to the Dean of the Engineering Department then because I wanted to do engineering. He said I cannot do difficult engineering courses having left mathematics for a long time. He advised me that I should do something that will not take me to rigorous mathematics or Further Maths. I told him my late daddy said anything you want to do at all, always go for the best. He laughed, and said ‘which daddy? The daddy you don’t have?’ I said his spirit still lives in me. I asked him what the best of engineering is. He said they normally call it mechanical engineering, the father and mother of all engineering. Then electrical and civil engineering are also good one.”

Challenged by the Dean’s words, Waheed-Adekojo ventured into the engineering field and decided to embrace the ‘father and mother’ of engineering which is mechanical engineering.

“It was a tug of war because I didn’t enter LAUTECH with UME, I entered through a pre-degree programme. Those pre-degree students who entered LAUTECH about the same time were already in year three going for Industrial Attachment. Here I am coming back to their department as a 200 level student. So, the intimidation was there, some of them looked down on me. I humbled myself and immersed myself in what the department would offer. I read like never before and aligned myself with students of like minds and within a short period of time.

I blended and excelled in that difficult and unknown terrain of Mechanical Engineering. And of course. ‘I can do spirit’ also helped me.

I eventually graduated with a Second Class Upper Division (2.1) despite my years lost, despite my temptation.

In all of her academic travails, she said her mum has been her driving force. “My mum has this re-assurance look. My mum’s energy drives me.

Impossibility is not in her dictionary.

After putting that positive idea in you, she might go behind and cry, because most of the time, I have caught her crying. I was studying her.

I had two prayers at that time as an undergraduate student. It was God give her a long life so that I can do something for her. Then number two is to give me grace so that I can help those in mum’s category that are struggling to take care of their children. This is what led to Funmi Ayinke Humanity Foundation.”

In the course of her academic life, Waheed-Adekojo found love in one of her lecturers at LAUTECH who proposed to her shortly before she was posted to Jigawa State for the mandatory youth service. The lovebirds tied the knot in-between her youth service and after nine months she was redeployed to Ogun State where she completed her one year service at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) where her husband was a reader and professor.

While in Jigawa, WaheedAdekojo was posted to the Ministry of Works where she demonstrated her skills as a

thorough bread professional. And in FUNAAB, she was posted to the Works and Services Department. Consciously or unconsciously, the future construction magnate is already laying her foundation of success.

“I didn’t dabble into construction immediately because after my wedding in 2009, I got pregnant with my first child. Also, I worked for six years with FUNAAB. I gave myself a task of being a hands-on mum that won’t start any work until after I have had all my children. So when I got pregnant, I told my husband that I am not going to do any official work; that I will be doing my business while raising the children. He said what kind of business? I said I wanted to do an engineering business.

I will be running lights for filling stations. I have my fuel dispensary pump, and I will be doing my kerosene there. I can be doing the fabrication of all these tanks, I can erect some surface tanks for the filling stations. I floated a company and named it Adefunmi Investment. I was enjoying my business, had all my children and the business became big.”

Having stamped her feet in the small scale business and learnt the rudiments of administration during her stint at FUNAAB where she headed various Units within the tertiary institution, Waheed-Adekojo decided to explore. This time, her company, Funmi Ayinke Nigeria Limited founded while working in government was resuscitated in 2018 and became a full-fledged construction company.

“We are into construction, consultancy, and procurement. The kind of consultancy that we do is different from the general concern, apart from having architect, structured engineer; I am a PMP (Project Management Professional) certified person. It is a global certificate that can be presented anywhere. So I actually practice as a project management professional consultant for some institutions. And we are also into other businesses. It is a company that has handled several projects at both state and federal levels and it has continued to add value to the society.”

“Apart from being an engineer, I am also an artist, I sing. I have a record label.

What led me to that was because of my story. I wanted to motivate Nigerians, particularly young girls. I see some of them trying to jump in the air to survive.

I said okay let me find a way of now putting myself out there. I always say it online that my life is an open letter, go and read me. So that when you read Funmi Ayinke, you will know that you have hope. It doesn’t matter the kind of spoon you were born with, it is the spoon that you define for yourself that matters. I now turned those motivational speeches to music. Today, I have 16 powerful songs that can help young girls push themselves beyond limitations and boundaries.”

In giving back to the society, Funmi Ayinke Humanity Foundation through her personal funding has catered for 15,000 Nigerian youths and over 5,000

Waheed-Adekojo

widows.

And on women breaking the glass ceilings, Waheed-Adekojo said it is possible if they can believe in themselves. “You know what?

Women too are wonderfully made.

And we too have the will and power to function well if we are given a chance. With modesty, I have 35 professionals working under me.

Our corporate office is in Abuja and I am believing in God that before the end of 2022 by God’s grace, we will establish our main office.”

Giving tips on life lessons, Waheed-Adekojo attests to the fact that life is not fair.

“I simply call it the law of attraction. What is the law of attraction? It is just the gravity law, when you throw something up, it comes down. Automatically, it is the

same thing as the law of attraction in the universe. Whatever you conceive, whatever you believe, this is just supposed to be exactly what you see.

Even life itself knows me by now, that when I want anything from an unfair life I define it. I will go for it.”

Passionate about her calling, as she approaches the big 40 in the next six months, Waheed-Adekojo isn’t ready to slow down in those core areas that are close to her heart: engineering, musical exploration and devotion to humanity.

“I am going global. I will no longer be limited to Nigeria. I see myself as what the whole world needs, not just my country. So, in the next four or five years, I won’t be surprised if I am listed amongst the movers and shakers. And of course, my music career is evolving and finally, I will continue to be of help to humanity,” she stated.

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GLITZFOCUS

Folashade Okoya Honoured for Years of Industry, Dedication On Tuesday, October 11, businesswoman and youngest wife of billionaire industrialist, Folashade Noimat Okoya, will stand tall amongst the movers and shakers of the society as she adds another feather to her cap. Okoya is a recipient of the Member of the Order of the Niger (MON) award, which will be conferred on her during 2022 national honours awards organised by the federal government in Abuja.

The latest achievement has proven that the style icon, whose business tentacles have continued to resonate across Africa hasn’t gone unnoticed, Funke Olaode reports.

T

he one-page letter from the office of the Minister of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs is very clear and simply reads: Folashade Noimat Okoya: 2022 National Honours Award Letters.

“I have the honour to formally inform you that the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, Muhammadu Buhari has approved the conferment of the National Honours on you, in the rank of MON (Member of the Order of the Niger).”

In the next 48 hours, Abuja the country capital will welcome dignitaries from all walks of life as 437 Nigerians who have made giant strides in their endeavours will receive national honours. Amongst them is Folashade Okoya, who is the Deputy Managing Director of Eleganza Industrial City Limited, and wife of Aare Rasaq Akanni Okoya, the Aare of Lagos and chairman/CEO of Eleganza Group of Companies.

That Okoya is a woman of many parts is an understatement. She is beautiful, brilliant, industrious, hardworking, fashionable and a resourceful individual whose entrepreneurial spirit is unparalleled. With over 20 years within the Eleganza conglomerate, she has learnt the ropes and has become a business tycoon with administrative skills running the factory with multiple lines of productions.

Although providence plays some significant role in the affairs of humans, yet, as the Roman philosopher Lucius Seneca rightly observed, “luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity”. Okoya’s meteoric rise within the Eleganza conglomerate might seem providential; but it derives, primarily, from hard work. Her strength lies in her tenacity, diligence, simplicity, and a mind that pays sufficient attention to detail.

Climbing the ladder of success to becoming a business magnate didn’t happen in one day.

It was a gradual process of mentoring having learnt the ropes of business and administration under the watchful eyes of her industrialist husband, Alhaji Akanni Okoya. And within a short period of time, she has become a business tycoon because of her vision and mission to transform the Eleganza Industry, which she has pursued vigorously.

Today, she is the deputy managing director of the company. Certainly, Okoya was prepared and hit the ground running as soon as the leadership mantle fell on her with a decision to make a mark and to impact the nation. She has performed wonderfully well. As a matter of fact, she did not have to explain. Her work as a brilliant business colossus did the talking.

Okoya is a highly educated senior level manufacturing executive with specialisation in Project Management, quality assurance, marketing, sales distribution, material/ logistic human resources administration and management encompassing technology-based applications. She also possesses strong ability to identify and understand customer’s needs, a team player with high understanding of team’s objectives, a self-starter who is always willing to learn, with high ability to under pressure with little or no supervision in a highly challenging competitive work environment.

Born in Lagos on April 25, 1977 into the family of the late Alhaji Taju and Alhaja Nimota Adeleye from ljebu Ode in Ogun State, the business magnate began her early education at St. Bernadette Nursery and Primary School Lagos after which she proceeded to Awori Comprehensive High School graduating in 1991. A well-grounded woman of substance proceeded to Lagos State Polytechnic, Isolo

Okoya

where she studied Banking and Finance.

She capped it with a BSc in Sociology from University of Lagos, graduating in 2004. In 2014, she was honoured with Doctor of Science (honoris course) in Business Management and Corporate Leadership by the Senate of European American University. The same year, she bagged the Most Valuable Business Executive of the year from the board of trustees and advisory council of International Centre for Corporate Leadership for African and Blacks in Diaspora and Accolade International Marketing Limited.

At various times, she has been bestowed with various awards and chieftaincy titles amongst are the Bewaji of Lagos, Otun Aare lyalaje of Ajiranland, Yeye Oge of Epe Land, Ajisewa of Oke-Ona Egba and Patron of Fashion Designers Association of Nigeria (FADAN).

She plunged herself into the many areas of business holding various positions as Managing Director of Eleganza Fashion Products Limited, Eleganza Cruise and Travels Limited, as well as a member Board of the Directors of Eleganza Group and RAO Investment Property Company Limited. Okoya’s steps to becoming a top grade business executive has been a classic example of a brain meeting opportunity. Her talent endowments have been activated to peak performance by her responsibilities at Eleganza Groups. She set a record in the company by producing over 300,000 cartons of the company’s flagship product in a month and consistently achieving over 100 percent of monthly production target for over five years , reducing the production of

waste level and losses from over 2.5 per cent to less than 0.5% without compromising Quality standards and GMP practices, reducing overall factory running and plant maintenance expenses by over 45% and at the same time maintaining high efficiency through strategic optimization.

As Okoya moves up the ladder, she has continually identified her responsibilities as helmswoman. She has successfully restructured the company’s organogram that led to an overwhelmingly effective performance. Actively motivated, the software development department to develop widely accepted accounting, human resources, and electronic filing software solutions thereby fundamentally increasing the company’s software productions, exceeded the company’s revenue target by over 50%, pioneered the establishment of an efficient product packaging, materials and warehousing processes and procedures achieving a zero level record of product theft.

Apart from meeting the needs of its numerous customers across Nigeria and West African countries, Eleganza is also one of the biggest employers of labour.

The company has over 3,000 workers thereby providing employment to the citizens of Lagos State and its environs.

The company has the vision of being the foremost producer of various household items in Nigeria within the next decade. It also intends to commence the exportation of household items to all African Countries and beyond.

Although Eleganza, a family business, has been around for five decades, the new Eleganza Industrial City Limited is all encompassing churning out various products under one roof under the watchful of Oluwanishola damsel, Mrs. Folashade Okoya.

The whole idea according to her is to have household items in one compound. Not only that, “we want to be able to give Nigerians and the West African countries what we produce locally at an affordable price. One of the dreams of the Chairman, and my husband, Alhaji Rasaq Okoya is to see items being produced in the new industry become a household name.

“Our dream is to see Eleganza move from generation to generation and continue to touch lives. I want Nigerians and Africans to sit back and thank Eleganza for impacting their lives,” said Okoya during a recent encounter.

Okoya stepped into the Nigerian space as a pretty young woman. And within a few years she has continued to roar with a loud bang turning opportunity to prosperity.

Okoya has proven many times that you can be a wife, mother (having raised four grown up children), and fulfilling your calling career wise.

She has ticked all the boxes positively.

As she mounts the podium come Tuesday to receive the Member of the Order of the Niger (MON) award, how does she feel being honoured by the motherland? Her response was quick. “I feel honoured and humbled. I believe I have paid my dues in the Nigerian manufacturing sector. This will motivate me to do more.” Did she see it coming? “I didn’t expect it, but if I have to judge what I do daily over the years, it’s long overdue,” she said.

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GLITZ ENTERTAINMENT

Big Brother Titans Calls for Auditions Stories by Vanessa Obioha Following the announcement of the new iteration of the Big Brother reality TV, ‘Big Brother Titans’ show at the MultiChoice Media Showcase in September, the company has opened calls for entries.

The special season scheduled for next year will be a mix of Big Brother Naija and Big Brother Mzansi, thus, Nigerians and South Africans, aged 21 and above are eligible to participate.

Speaking about the fascinating twist of having a mash-up of BBNaija and

BBMzansi, Chief Executive Officer, MultiChoice Nigeria, John Ugbe, said, “the long history of rich culture and talent shared by both countries will be brought to life through the Titan housemates in one house. I can only imagine the explosion of drama and intrigue that will ensue. So, imagine ‘Afrobeats’ meeting ‘Amapiano’; imagine the food and everything else that will be showcased; we think this will be quite exciting. We are excited about the special big brother season, and we will reveal more details at the right time sometime next year.”

The auditions are still ongoing.

Made Kuti Joins 2Baba, Cobhams as Judges for Trophy Extra Special Band Season 3

Host and judges of Trophy Extra Special Band

Trophy Extra Special Stout’s new brand ambassador, Made Kuti will be joining judges 2Baba and Cobhams Asuquo on the third season of the live band reality TV show, Trophy Extra Special Band.

The judges will be tasked with the arduous task of assessing and steering a group of 11 contesting musical bands in their quest for the grand prize of N10 million and a brand new set of musical instruments.

Nigerian vocalist, dancer, lyricist, Yinka Davies and ace rapper,

Illbliss will appear as guest judges. Returning as host for the new season is Bolanle Olukanni who is joined by actor, and TV/radio presenter Simi Drey, as the new co-host.

Commenting on the choice of judges and hosts for the third season, Tolulope Adedeji, Marketing Director at International Breweries said, “In line with the underlying theme of our campaign, we have selected judges and hosts who are innovative leaders in their rights — true representations of the theme ‘No DNA Needed, Originally Black’.

We are certain they will individually bring their unique signature and wealth of experience to bear and make this season the most memorable one so far.”

Expressing his delight at the continuity, Bada AkintundeJohnson, Country Manager, Paramount Africa (parent company of MTV Base) said, “We are pleased to work with International Breweries on the production of the new season as it resonates deeply with all we stand for. Nigeria is brimming with incredible talent, and we believe that providing these talents with platforms - such as the Trophy Extra Special Band - will go a long way in unlocking their full potential. Even more crucially, it creates a sustainable means of spotlighting an underserved segment of our music industry.”

Previous editions of The Trophy Extra Special Band saw Black Tunez and The Bandhitz emerge as winners in Seasons 1 and 2 respectively. Other remarkable bands from the previous seasons include The Alian Tribe, Benedictz, and Elixir, all of whom have achieved success from the show.

The show will premiere on MTV Base channel on DStv and GOtv.

Gidi Creative Centre Officially Begins 2022 Training Session With 200 creatives onboard, the Lagos State-led Gidi Creative Centre (GCC) officially kicked off its 2022 training sessions on Tuesday, October 4, 2022. The first day of school was flagged off with an orientation day held at the University of Lagos.

For the next 11 weeks, the students will be engaged by different facilitators from Henley Business School, UNILAG, as well as other professionals in the creative space on various courses that include filmmaking, creative writing, animation, and audio engineering to mention a few. The capacity-building program is also designed to include courses on ethics, leadership, and entrepreneurship.

The auspicious occasion attracted dignitaries including the Vice Chancellors of the University of Lagos, Prof. Oluwatoyin Ogundipe; Executive Secretary of Lagos State Film and Video Censors Board (LSFVCB), Adebukola Agbaminoja; film producer Judith Audu; and representatives of Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF), Lagos State Creative Industry Initiative (LACI), and Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture.

Speaking at the event, the Director of GCC, Idris Olorunnimbe implored the students to take advantage of the short course presented to them on a platter for a chance to be celebrated in their respective fields in the future.

“For this batch, we have a total of 500 persons. 200 of them are going to be in-person training for 11 weeks.

There will be another 300 that will take masterclasses in different courses that will be made available online.

“We expect that at the end of the course, we are going to have 200 people who have been professionally trained, that will go into the world either as entrepreneurs or as employable citizens to help with the development of content.”

Out of the 11 weeks structured for the different courses, each participant will be placed in an internship program in various leading creative firms for three weeks.

Executive Secretary of Lagos State Film and Video Censors Board (LSFVCB), Adebukola Agbaminoja; Director, Gidi Creative Centre, Idris Olorunnnimbe; Vice Chancellors of the University of Lagos, Prof. Oluwatoyin Ogundipe; Film producer, Judith Audi at the Orientation Day programme held for trainees of the Gidi Creative Centre recently held at the University of Lagos.

BBNaija host, Ebuka Obi-Uchendu

Search for Naija Highlandah Kicks off in Fervour In true Nigerian spirit, blended scotch whisky William Lawson kicked off its campaign in search of bold Nigerians who live life by their own rules to challenge for the title of the first-ever Naija Highlandah. The month-long search will see daring participants compete through a series of challenges to win the grand prize of Two Million Naira and a trip to Scotland.

To launch the search, William Lawson’s Highlandahs stormed major streets and bus terminuses in Lagos. The Highlandahs visited the Oshodi and Ikeja Bus Terminals, where they paid the bus fares of random Nigerians to the delight of beneficiaries and other members of the public.

At the media launch that followed the street activation at Bamboo Lounge, Ikeja GRA, journalists, and other partners participated in fun challenges and won exciting prizes.

The Naija Highlandah Challenge will run from October 13 to November 12, 2022, in two main phases. The first phase will focus on recruiting the participants and having them participate in the challenges. The competition is open to 18-year-olds and above with the guts to take up the challenge. The Top 10 who can best prove their Highlandah attitude will move to the grand finale and battle for the ultimate Naija Highlandah prize.

Speaking about The Naija Highlandah challenge, Lerato Makume, Bacardi Marketing Manager for Nigeria, said, “William Lawson’s is known for defying the norm, making its own rules and being brazenly different, just like our liquid. This is the kind of person we are looking for, someone with a true Highlandah attitude. We know Nigeria is full of Highlandahs, but only one person will have the guts to be William Lawson’s NAIJA Highlandah.”

Some of the challenges the Naija Highlandah will have to beat include good-humoured ones, such as spin the bottle, animal imitation and balloon games. There are also bold challenges such as ‘Plank no shots’ and ‘Plank with heels’. The two unconventional challenges for contestants are ‘Kaku Meter’, and ‘Pull no spill’.

Felabration 2022: Kukah, Kadaria, Others to Speak at Symposium This year’s Felabration will kick off with the symposium on Monday, October 10. It will have Bishop Hassan Kukah, Professor Kingsley Moghalu, Kadaria Ahmed and Dr Hakeem Baba-Ahmed as speakers.

They will be tackling the topic ‘Election 2023, Action Time’ which will be moderated by Edmund Obilo.

The event, now in its 14th edition has grown over the years to becoming the much anticipated and traditional curtain raiser to the Felabration festive week.

Renowned guest speakers over the years include current Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and Speaker Femi Gbajabiamila, Professor Wole Soyinka, Femi Falana SAN, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Professor PLO Lumumba, Pastor Ituah Ighodalo, Dele Farotimi, Tony Nnadi, Professor Sophie Oluwole, Dr Obi Ezekwesili, Chidi Odinkalu, Arikana Chihambori Quao, Donald Duke, Babajide Kolade Otitoju, Kukah to speak at Felabration Symposium Omoyele Sowore, and Bobi Wine.

T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R OCTOBER 9, 2022

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HighLife

with KAYODE ALFRED 08116759807, E-mail: kayflex2@yahoo.com

...Amazing lifestyles of Nigeria’s rich and famous

Another Banking Amazon, Tomi Somefun, Gleefully Glides into 60 Trophy for Bola Atta

Atta

Times are changing but certain things will require more than time’s shadows to change. One such thing is the vibe of Bola Atta, the CEO of the United Bank for Africa’s Foundation.

Even as she continues to break new ground in the name of the foundation, she is also cleaving new skies. As such, songs of praise continue to garnish her march of progress.

These are great times for Atta and her UBA. Once again, the efforts and visionary potential of the combination of the duo have resulted in great prestige for the bank and its foundation. This time, accolades are flowing from all over the country, including from the individuals who were privileged to attend the 10th anniversary of the Marketing Edge brands and advertising excellence awards which was held in Lagos recently.

Indeed, UBA always seems to have the most forward-thinking and far-seeing workforce. But they really beat their records this time, and it is evident to every knowledgeable person that Atta had much to do with that. During the awards, UBA Foundation led the pack with its many innovative initiatives.

These included the annual National Essay Competition, Read Africa, Each Teach One, the Foodbank, and many others.

Unsurprisingly, UBA Foundation went home with the reputation of a leader in Corporate Social Responsibility. This, of course, is just an accompanying benefit of Atta’s true agenda which is to improve lives and nurture talents for the African continent. One can argue that with Atta and her crew at the helm of affairs, this agenda is halfway to completion.

No doubt, Atta’s garage is a massive hall of trophies. But this is to be expected since great things will always come to great people. Indeed, she is a symbol of focus, diligence, and vision. In her hands, the UBA Foundation will doubtless continue to flourish.

Compared to the many different elements that make up human life, time is likely the most consistent. Its existence suggests to us that progress is possible and that we can measure how much of that progress our efforts and fortunes can produce. For the Managing Director/CEO of Unity Bank Plc, Tomi Somefun, the assessment of time can only be a little better. At 60, Somefun has accomplished and continues to accomplish things that her peers can only dream about.

Unity Bank is currently enjoying the turn of the season as its MD/CEO glides gracefully into 60. The new age of the corporate Amazon evidences her gifts and graces which have always marked her out to be a remarkable person, one of a kind, and a legend in the making. Truth be told, her journey to greatness is not the type that can be replicated deliberately, but one that shows the backing of God’s divinity.

Most people only know Somefun today. Others who are better informed know that she has been around in the corporate arena for more than three decades. Specifically, she has participated in remaking Nigeria’s banking sector for the past 26 years, with another nine years spent around the sector. Before her current hallowed position, Somefun was the Executive Director of Unity Bank’s Lagos and South-West Business Directorates, as well as the Financial Institution Division and Treasury Department of the bank.

But her path has always been bright and brilliant. This is likely why she can hold membership in both the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) even though her first university degree was in English Language and within the Faculty of Education.

With Somefun at 60, one can be sure that greater things are in store for Unity Bank. Before her new age,

It is not very often that a young lady can break the expectations of society and reach for the stars. For a person like Oyindamola Adeyemi, such an achievement does not count for much. After all, she overflows with courage, diligence, and a vision that is all identifiable with someone of her age. Nevertheless, her recent actions place her at a level far above her peers, showing her to be the dazzling business lady she is.

The maiden Lateef Adegbite Memorial Lecture Series on leadership was recently held at the Alliance Francaise, Victoria Island, Lagos. The event had some of the most prestigious individuals in the country in attendance, including monarchs and business magnates. And among these high achievers, there was a young lady whose flame refused to be snuffed out in intimidation. Instead, it blazed until it drew gazes of admiration from the high achievers. That lady was Adeyemi, the founder and Group Managing Director of Still Earth Group, and also the chairperson of Tirex Petroleum and Energy.

Oyin Adeyemi Dazzles Business Titans, Royalties

Adeyemi

Somefun

she was already considered wise. Therefore, Unity Bank is sure to benefit from Somefun’s strengthened grasp of wisdom’s reins.

In her session, Adeyemi spoke about ‘Leading with Less While Building for Development – Tackling Nigeria’s Infrastructure Conundrum.’

She was eloquent and precise, emphasising the need for solving Nigeria’s problems with effective, evidence-based solutions. She noted that leadership was the anchor upon which these solutions could be established and that it was necessary to have our minds focused on the big picture.

Adeyemi’s points touched on the core of the matter, offering a way out of the main problems the country is facing. In all honesty, she could have been talking about algae and underground cre ature s and she w o uld still ho ld the atte ntio n o f the hig h and m ig hty. B ut she w as talk ing abo ut so m e thing that co nce rne d e ve ry o ne invo lve d , so o ne co uld alre ad y trace o ut plans to chang e the ir d o m ains to f it he r w o rd s in the ir e y e s.

Ind e e d , A d e y e m i’ s lig ht is lik e a sm all spark that will light up the nation soon. Her brilliance is remarkable and there for all to see.

Abike Dabiri: Inspiring World of Diaspora Commission Chairman at 60

Dabiri-Erewa

People who insist that the future is in the hands of the young have most likely failed to consider the fact that people like Abike Dabiri-Erewa are still very much around. Even though time is gradually leaving its traces on their identities, such people will continue to gild their doings until they are truly and completely spent. At 60, one can only say that Dabiri-Erewa is not close to emptying her treasure chest of talent, passion, and diligence.

On October 10, 2022, Dabiri-Erewa marked her 60th year on the earth.

Because of her identity and status, she was celebrated by virtually every hightier Nigerian within and outside the country. After all, the sphere of influence and contribution of the Amazon is not and has never been limited to any one area.

Instead, even as she celebrated 60 years of life, Dabiri-Erewa got to understand the true extent of her contributions to the lives of others around her.

Many people have made a name for themselves in the area of philanthropy,

understanding that helping other people is a duty that is divine in origin.

For Dabiri-Erewa, philanthropy is incomplete outside corporate efforts.

Thus, she has always committed the best of herself in shouldering the responsibility of helping Nigerians, especially those in the diaspora.

Even at 60, many diplomats from other nations refer to her as a lioness.

That is not surprising considering how Dabiri-Erewa has helped to watch over Nigerians abroad as the CEO of the Nigerian in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM). In fact, almost nobody remembers how these Nigerians went about their daily endeavours before Dabiri-Erewa came into the picture. That is how single-handedly and successfully Dabiri-Erewa discharged her duties.

At 60, Dabiri-Erewa is an inspiration to all people, male or female. Her commitment is only overshadowed by her vision for the future. But more is yet to come, that much is clear.

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T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R OCTOBER 9, 2022

HIGHLIFE

Billionaire Businesswoman, Bola Shagaya, Gracefully Hits Her 63rd Year Nigeria has indeed come a long way concerning the wealth and global status of her citizens. Today, with individuals like Bola Shagaya as trailblazers, nobody can look down on Nigeria or claim that the values of her children are feeble or useless. Moreover, with Shagaya and her peers growing older, wiser, and more experienced, the prospect of hope cannot be more tangible.

Great things are afoot in Kwara State and indeed all of Nigeria with Shagaya clocking 63. Celebrating her, many highlevel Nigerians took to their social media handles to praise her many philanthropic deeds in recent times. Truly, compared to her, some of the most well-known 60-plusyear-olds are living a fairly unremarkable life.

For those that are familiar with the

doings of Shagaya, it would come as no big deal that she has managed to sit on the stallion of prominence and fame for decades.

Her legends continue to make the rounds, triggering much discussion regarding what her secret is. After all, it is not every individual that can rise from a humble background and reach for the stars.

If one were to ask Shagaya, she is sure to say that it was God’s grace that brought her thus far. And it was because there is nothing else that can effectively catapult an individual from the bottom of the ladder to the very top, regardless of their brains and diligence.

And Shagaya has both of these qualities in abundance.

Even now, as she straddles different industries, from real estate to oil and gas to banking and so on, Shagaya is one of the

Aregbesola is ‘Back Home’

Shagaya

most enigmatic personalities among hightier society Nigerians. It is no wonder that she is widely acknowledged to be one of the richest African women. Thus, even at 63, her genius looks to be flourishing, her wisdom more robust, and her compassion even more far-reaching. A jewel indeed, that is what Shagaya is.

Entrepreneur Extraordinaire, Adisa Aliu, Joins Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council

Aliu

Great things are on the horizon for Abdulkabir Adisa Aliu, the Group CEO of Matrix Group, as well as the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council (CWEIC).

According to recent reports, the two business

giants have entered into a partnership after having satisfied the requirements they each set for themselves. By every indication, Aliu and his Matrix Group will have a stronger base from which to run their business operations, which is the same as saying that Matrix Group has levelled up and is no longer in the same league as its peers.

It has been a while since Aliu made a strong move in the business and entrepreneurial circles. Folks might have already begun to assume that the hightier industrialist was taking a break from oil investments and asset procurement.

Recent reports have now revealed that Aliu was only crouching so that he would spring up his Matrix Energy company, and reach a level worthy of the notice of the Global Advisory Council with CWEIC in tow.

It was CWEIC that announced Aliu’s partnership with the Global Advisory Council. For those who know nothing about the CWEIC, it is a non-profit organization with a vast web of connections. It has more than 50 Commonwealth member nations as partners and doubles that number of innovative businesses with which it runs a joint global venture.

Of course, those that are familiar with the successes of Aliu and his Matrix Energy Group will not be surprised that he was able to catch the global organisation’s attention.

Since entering the limelight, Matrix Energy has grown to become one of the most accomplished indigenous oil companies in Nigeria. Its interest in petroleum-product marketing and distribution has shown it to be a radical and forward-moving company, no less than the big guys on the global front.

Standing Ovation for Eruani Azibapu, for Setting Another Record For the informed Nigerian, nobody can convince them that a revolution is not coming to the country in a few years. Anybody with a visionary mind should be able to tell that the sun of greatness is rising on the nation and no political, economic, or socio-cultural disaster will be able to eclipse it. Thanks to young people like Dr. Eruani Azibapu, a new wave of hope is now blowing across every corner.

It has to be said that President Muhammadu Buhari is going all out in his last administrative days to leave strong seeds behind. Azibapu is the latest of such seeds that the president is setting up as a pillar for Nigeria’s future. This preparation process has taken the form of an award process that has fundamentally changed Azibapu’s status as a common Nigerian, setting him up instead as a Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR).

According to reports, with President Buhari set to confer the CFR award on the owner

and CEO of Azikel Refinery, Azibapu has inadvertently become the youngest Nigerian to hold the title. But this is not all too surprising considering the contributions of the 48-year-old man who is a medical doctor, industrialist, and entrepreneur.

Besides his personal contributions, the president has determined that Azibapu’s role in establishing the in-country petroleum refining process in Nigeria deems him worthy of the CFR award. And this is true. Azibapu has boosted Nigeria’s chances at genuine sustainable development with his Hydroskimming Refinery, the very first private petroleum refinery of its kind in Nigeria. Evidently, it is written in his stars that he will break new ground.

With his actions, Azibapu is leading a new generation of thinkers, visionaries, and recordbreakers in the country. With such people, it is only a matter of time before Nigeria can outshine both her developing and developed neighbours.

Even in the face of contradictory interests, brothers can be brothers and men can be men. Between All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential candidate, Bola Tinubu, and his erstwhile pal, Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola, there is a lot of history. Despite this sea of good times and bad times, the past year has been a trial for their friendship to the point that it turned into animosity. But that was the past. Based on recent events, it is clear that Tinubu and Aregbesola have settled their differences and things are back on track.

On the journey to Nigeria’s 2023 elections, the main political parties are having to deal with a lot of issues, both internal and external. However, it seems that APC is pulling ahead because it has managed to reconcile some of its factions and recovered the full loyalty of one of the strongest political influencers in the Southwest, Aregbesola.

Aregbesola was one of those who participated in Tinubu’s recent strategy meeting in Abuja. With Senator AbdulFatai Omotayo Buhari, Senator Ajibola Basiru, and Dr Yunus Akintunde playing the role of mediators, it did not take too long for Aregbesola and Tinubu to let go of the past and join hands in preparation for the forthcoming election.

The issue between the two political titans came about because of gubernatorial succession. It is believed that Tinubu supported someone other than Aregbesola’s choice for the position of Osun State Governor not so long ago. And that person won, inadvertently reducing Aregbesola’s influence in Osun to that of a drum sounding without anybody dancing to it.

But all that is past now. Once again, the brothers have united and are now ready to take the presidential trophy home. Perhaps it will be as they anticipate, perhaps not. But time will tell.

Still, it is something that they were able to reconcile and that Aregbesola is back where he belongs.

Azibapu

Fatima Ganduje-Ajimobi in Her Shell as Tongues Wag over Her Whereabouts

Ganduje-Ajimobi

The Nigerian social media space is always an interesting place. You can count on finding toothless turtles and brisk-paced snails over there. More than that, it is an incredible space for all kinds of news: who is who, where is who, and what is who doing. In this short piece, the focus has been turned to Fatima, the daughter of Kano State Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje and wife of Idris Ajimobi, son of the late Senator Isiaka Abiola Ajimobi.

According to those paying close attention to her, Fatima has disappeared and might be in a bind that is yet to be exposed.

Ordinarily speaking, she would have commented on any number of the many controversial issues that popped up in recent times, including her husband’s renewed foray into politics. However, nothing has been heard from her, prompting keyboard warriors and online in-laws to spin stories of where she is

currently and what she is doing.

According to one side of the unsolicited welfare watchers, Fatima has decided to jet out of Nigeria, taking solace in the United Kingdom. This narrative holds that Fatima has some issues with the family, which is why she has not been sighted with her husband in recent times. Clearly, there is very little evidence to prove these insinuations.

The second side of the unsolicited welfare watchers claims that Fatima is very much around and is only lying low because she is besieged by family pressures. As such, she has more on her plate than the prospect of strutting around on campaign tiles and expecting things to change on her end.

In truth, nothing is certain and these stories are most likely fibs. But they are all very interesting explanations for why Fatima has taken to staying in her shell, which is clearly against her usually fiery personality.

Aregbesola

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LOUD WHISPERS

with JOSEPH EDGAR (09095325791)

Jumoke Okoya Thomas: Mummy ‘Jummy’ on Fire I was on the phone with someone when she burst out laughing.

The laugh was so loud that I had to ask what the matter was. She said she was watching Jumoke on ARISE News Channel. I asked which Jumoke and she said Okoya Thomas. I replied ok and moved on with my life. But later in the day, at the Duke Summit, the matter came up again. So, I asked for a link to the interview.

My people, the interview was something else. Wasn’t as bad as the one of ‘Pinocchio Alake’ but was hilariously terrible. Why they always throw ‘these people’ at us beats me.

First, the platform was so wrong.

‘Jummy’ would have done brilliantly well at LTV or TVC. ARISE, with its elitist outlook was just so above her head. This is a grassroots politician, someone that has built a career in dealing with the ‘horizontal population’ and you now come and ask her about ‘Maternal Mortality and number of out-of-school children in Lagos’.

She kuku give you answer na. “all the children in her school are going to school ooo. Her governor is trying ooo and she is not a politician but ‘in between’”.

When asked if people were levied or coerced, she promptly responded, “Laredo gave me small chops, Mafeauchi, my longtime friend, came o and Aunty Joke that I met at a party came.”

The laugh is on Abati and Oseni, who were talking to a ‘market woman’ like they were interviewing Joe Biden. Both sides failed woefully. Mummy had no business on ARISE and Rufai and Abati should not have taken this as their normal chit chat with ‘serious’ people.

Good thing though, it sha made us all laugh. Kai!

PDP CRISIS – WATCHING TINUBU CLOSELY

BOLA TINUBU AS FIT AS A FIDDLE One thing I like about Baba is the way he bounces back. This campaign is not a small thing for him o. As we push him to the floor he comes back stronger. For him, this is a real struggle. The last major battle in a colourful life.

Baba went missing in action. Was not available to sign the peace accord and sent his able and fit canvas wearing deputy thereby throwing the rumor mills into overdrive.

The stories were plenty as usual. Baba has cancer, Baba has erectile dysfunction, Baba cannot walk again, Baba’s kidney has finally gone. His doctors have refused to release him and Shettima has refused to donate blood.

So, to ‘scatter’ all that, we were sent a video of Baba on a stationary but unplugged bicycle. As he was riding, his face made me laugh. See me riding o, the face seems to say. See me riding o. I am fit ooo. I almost laugh die.

This Baba will not go anywhere without a fight. The next minute, another pic of him in a blue suit with two gentlemen with one looking like my brother Toyin Subair standing in a garden.

Hate him or love him, one thing you cannot deny is his determination to give this fight all that he has. I wish him well.

Well-done Baba.

other such important things.

The other two are focused on showing us that even at 100, they still have erections. The way Tinubu and Atiku are going, they will soon ask for a 20-year-old virgin to be brought to them so that they can make love to them in a show of virility. Be watching o. It will soon happen.

The other day, we saw Atiku dressed like Prince Nico Mbarga dancing in a photo shoot. I wonder with that kind dance step how he got to marry all his wives. But when you are close to 100 in years, dancing steps will not be your main forte. Na the knees and waist to make sure that the creaking will allow you to sleep well at night after the photo shoot. As if that one was not enough, the next minute we saw daddy on a machine. He was pulling, stretching and panting. I am liking this. What this tells me, is that focus has moved away from rigging but to actually looking for the votes. Because if anybody has the confidence that the ballot will be stolen in its usual way, they will not be busy trying to ape Arnold Schwarzenegger, they will just relax and do what they have to do.

Well, I thank God that the situation is like this at least we are getting the best of the campaigns. The two Babas are in pantomime struggling very hard to show that they are still sprite and healthy even as what we see is to the contrary. Me I just dey siddon look abi what else can we do?

My very good friend, Joke Silva, was the butt of fire from the so-called ‘Obidients’ during the week. She attended the rally called out by women in Lagos to show solidarity for the candidacy of Senator Bola Tinubu.

She was singled out however for the worst kind of verbal umbrage.

This has now become the folly of the ‘Obidients’ who can quite get unruly especially if one decides not to look their way.

Democracy, let me remind you all is a game of choices. Its very essence is in allowing everyone to choose who or what they want to stand by. Nobody should be abused for choosing a side.

The ‘Obidients’ have turned social media to an abattoir of slime once you say anything contrary to their views.

Even their principal Obi has come out severally to call for calm but this seems to have been unheeded. Some of them have justified these crass actions with the fact that others are doing it or that it was the mainstay in 2015.

But my reaction is simple. You claim you want to bring about change and that you are tired of the old order, so why use the tactics of the old order to push for this so-called change. Are we sure that if and when you finally enthrone this your new order, would we not be in the same boat if not worse?

Mbok, Aunty Joke did not deserve all of that and a collective apology by Mr. Obi on behalf of his people will just be a befitting compensation. Na wa.

Tinubu

ATIKU ABUBAKAR: THE DANCING MAESTRO As the campaigns engage on full throttle, things are beginning to happen. The issue of the campaigns seems to be the physical fitness of the two major candidates, leaving the third -Obi to continue to engage on the economy and

AKAN UDOFIA’S CAUTIOUS OPTIMISM It is no longer news that the only candidate that I have in these elections

Abubakar

Udofia

Okoya-Thomas

is Akan Udofia. Akan is the APC gubernatorial candidate for Akwa Ibom State. But somehow, his candidacy is in jeopardy. The INEC has done something and he is no longer on the ballot. But he is in court and I am being told that the judgment will be delivered today as I write- Thursday.

By the time you read this, the judgment would have been read.

I spoke to him Wednesday night and he was very optimistic that the judgment will be in his favour.

You see, Akan has captured the imagination of Akwa Ibomites and I believe that history and fate will stand by him. He has pushed a private sector developmental mantra that resonates with the people. He has said that we should begin to look at how we can spread prosperity without necessarily concentrating power at the level of government. We need to democratise wealth, spread it, open up the space to allow for entrepreneurial development that will create wealth and push many more people out of poverty and touch other areas like education and health.

This is his message and this is why we all stand by him. I know that by the time you read this, Akan will be back on the ballot. God is on the throne.

MAGNUS ONYIBE: I STILL DO NOT AGREE Be like say my brother no dey read my column or he no dey hear word.

Some few weeks ago, I wrote very

Abegunde

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LOUD WHISPERS clearly that I do not agree with his position that the government should move subsidy away from petroleum and take it to education. His argument was that we need to stop paying for consumption but that we should start paying for productivity and that education was the best place to throw the huge funds we waste on subsidy.

I argued vehemently against this stating very clearly that with the inherent inefficiencies in the system, we will just be swapping ‘thieves’. The new education loan will throw up new billionaires and Nigerians will still suffer.

Magnus obviously did not read that treatise as he has gone ahead to submit a 3,000-word article for thealvinreport. com pushing this his position. If I were some people now, I would not publish it now because this is him looking for my trouble.

But as a democrat, I will publish it and call him and fight him. I will ask him very clearly why he is looking for my trouble. After he called me in the night to talk about the matter and we spent hours arguing in which I told him very clearly my position and even went further to write on these pages my position, he still went ahead to submit a contrary opinion for me to publish in my journal. This man wants people to call me undemocratic because if I react the way I am supposed to react I am not supposed to publish that work. Why he no send am to Sahara reporters or defunct Ikebe super? If not that Mr. Onyibe is looking for my trouble, why would he now do this.

Some people know that I am fighting for National Honours next year and that is why they are sending Magnus to annoy me so that when I react, they will now say I don’t have character.

Bro, let me repeat one last time, the government has no business in tertiary institutions. They should just sell off the schools, take the money and strengthen regulation and build social buffers for the indigent so they too can access education on the back of credible scholarships and grants.

These loans should be private sectordriven so that the government can go and face its real duty.

I will not talk on this matter again.

See even the mumu government has gone to register a new ASUU meaning that they still don’t understand this matter. Jesusss, I tire.

I give up.

WOLE ABEGUNDE AND THE POWER OF A DREAM Most of you do not know this gentleman but he is today one of the most strategic if not influential investment bankers in the land.

His Meristem Group today is the largest independent non-Bank Finance Group. With assets under management in excess of N300 billion and a customer base of about 10,000, Wole has come a long way since that morning at NAL Bank in Marina.

I was on the 15th floor of what is today the Sterling Towers. He was on the floor below me and we were neighbours in Shomolu. So out of boredom, I went down to sit with him and he opened his laptop and showed me his vision for Meristem.

He spoke so passionately and decisively that I felt his strength. I wished him well and walked away. I was hungry.

Today, Meristem is huge. It is a very big entity and they just opened one of the most beautiful office blocks in Ikoyi. It is a nine-storey edifice complete with all modern gadgets.

Wole proudly took me through a tour. I saw lounges, a gym, a creche and everything. The only thing that was missing was a swimming pool. With over N5b spent in building the edifice, you will forgive me if at some point I

thought I was in Manhattan. Well-spaced and beautifully edifying structure, the building cascades the wonderfully apportioned Ikoyi visage with a pride not misplaced.

Meristem is on CNN with the legendary Nike Africana and her wonderful headgear pushing for international business. Wole confirmed that the customer base has increased to international clients as a direct result of the exposure from the international media platform.

Wole today is a fulfilled man. Coming a long way from when he was a young but very ambitious stockbroker to straddling this financial behemoth. He has done well for himself. Well-done bro.

GABRIEL OGBECHIE: THE LITTLE BOY FROM IDUMUJE UGBOKWU You see, I don’t even know how to go about this one. If you add Richard Nyong of Lekki Homes, then I have three very close friends who are in the National Honours list. So, to hail all three of them on these pages will be hard.

I had already written something about Richard some weeks ago after a visit to him. He has now come full blast from the ruins of the building collapse to this national recognition. A full circle.

But today let me talk about Gabriel. He is a little boy from the sleepy town of Idumuje in Delta State. His story is that

of a fantasy. From very tiny beginnings he has built a huge business empire spanning Oil and gas thru finance to other areas.

I once sat down with Gabriel in faraway Dubai and had a long conversation on the markets. Gabriel is extremely brilliant. It is no wonder that he has parlayed his clear understanding of the markets into what we are rewarding today with National Honours. Gabriel is a capitalist with a soft heart and what most of you do not know is that he is among the top five shareholders of First Bank Nigeria, major promoter of Globus Bank and also just acquired Eterna Oil. These activities have created jobs and opportunities for millions making him one of the quietest but extremely effective movers of the economy.

He is my friend and I am very proud to call him a brother even as I join his wellwishers and the rest of the country to wish him well on this major milestone.

FOR AMBASSADOR OLUFOLAKE ABDULRASAQ, IT’S AN ELEGANT ENTRY Can I call the amiable Governor of Kwara State, His Excellency AbdulRahaman AbdulRasaq, my friend? If I call am now, people will now be saying I am gloating or showboating.

But the man is my friend o. During the last showing of Emir Sanusi, he made an unannounced appearance.

JULIUS RONE: THE GAS KING AFLAME

Rone

Was I surprised to see his name on the list? I will say an emphatic no.

You see Julius plays in the space that is very critical for our continued economic wellbeing as a nation – gas. He is today known as the Gas King and it is for a reason. He is doing things in that space and if you understand the movements in the sector and the role gas will be playing in national revenues and the rest, you will understand why the federal government is giving Julius this award.

I have a bias for Julius though. He continues to support our ‘story

telling’. He was the main backer for our play Ogiame Erejuwa II last Easter and he is committed to supporting it again this December.

His love for the arts and humanity comes second to known. I was with him last month in his Abuja office and discussions were very expansive. Culture, business and leadership. A very powerfully engaging individual and one so nice – he offered me Coca-Cola.

I celebrate him this morning and do wish him many more recognitions for his service to humanity. Welldone bro.

So, when it was time for Sardauna, I sent him his invites and he responded that he may be out of the country. I said, “No problem, your Excellency.”

Then a day to the event, he reached out again and said, I will let you know if I would come for the second day.

Then I got a call from a protocol officer, “Madam is coming and I would like to meet with you to make adequate arrangements.” Wow. Madam came in that day. She was very elegant and engaging. I waited for her at the entrance and walked her to her seat.

In the two minutes it took us to walk from the car to her seat in the hall, she made quite an impression.

She asked very clear and intelligent questions about the play, showed strong interest in what we were trying to do and after it all was gracious enough to come on stage to say thank you to the cast and crew. Taking pictures and engaging them in their stories. I say thank you Mummy for this and God bless you.

To Oga, I say thank you too for the support.

MEENA FODIO: A PEDIGREE STEEPED IN BEAUTY Meena is the great great granddaughter of the Sardauna of Sokoto- Sir Ahmadu Bello. Seun my friend had told me, if you want Sardauna to be successful, Meena is your person. Sardauna was my new play that was fully funded by my brother Wole Olanipekun SAN and was taking place on the back of the Independence Day celebrations in Abuja.

We had funding but needed the support of the ‘aristocracy’. Meena was my entrée. We met on the phone and immediately struck a bond. She opened up the whole northern establishment with such ease that I marvelled.

At a meeting on the 10th floor of the Transcorp Hilton, she held down Capt Ado Bayero – I will give you guys his gist next week – and made sure he called everybody o.

When I say everybody, I mean everybody. From His Eminence, the Sultan of Sokoto, through to Atiku Abubakar to the Governor of Sokoto.

Her efforts brought out over 48 members of Sir Ahmadu Bello’s family. Brought a representative of the Sultan of Sokoto and Kebbi’s First Lady who sent in support and representative. Zamfara First Lady also came in through her efforts.

A very beautiful and humble lady. You should meet her. She left an impression.

Thank you so so much.

GENERAL FAROUK YAHAYA: YOUR SOLDIERS ARE FALLING FROM THE SKY If you did not see that clip, go and look for it o. In preparation for the National Day celebrations, the Nigerian Army were said to be practicing jumping out of planes. My people, from the video I watched, the soldiers were falling on trees, cars and market women.

The man who was filming was just shouting – “Na wa o, na wa o, see as soldiers dey drop from sky. One soldier even fell on a tree with the parachute hanging on the tree.”

Despite these, the Armed Forces gave a good showing during the celebrations itself. It made me very proud to be Nigerian. The rest of us here in Lagos are busy on social media abusing all that is Nigerian when the rest of the country are on NTA celebrating the very best in Nigeria.

The Nigerian Military School boys’ parade was the icing on the cake for me. Come and see the spectacle. It was just a wonder to behold.

Nigeria is a great country no matter what we think. Nigeria is great. Well done to the Armed Forces for such a beautiful display. Well done guys. Afang for the Chief of Army Staff whenever he is ready.

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Adebayo Adeoye bayoolunla@gmail.com; 08054680651

SOCIETY WATCH

Despite Blackmail, Leo Stan Ekeh Remains Unperturbed

Soname

Kunle Soname Hits Another Milestone As the founder of Bet9ja, Kunle Soname has proven to be one of the most successful businessmen in Africa. While some believe that sports cannot be run successfully as a business venture in Nigeria, or in most African countries, Soname has proven that theory wrong by recording successes in the field.

The Ogun State-born businessman is the owner of a Nigeria professional football league club, Remo Stars FC and has acquired a 70 per cent stake in a second-division Portuguese football club side called Clube Desportivo Feirense.

Soname started with sports marketing but made his money as a big-time online bookmaker. His Bet9ja brand has been phenomenally successful to the extent of picking the bill as the principal sponsor of many television shows in the past.

Having made a name for himself in sports marketing, Soname is set to venture into the aviation sector with ValueJet. Society Watch learnt that Soname floated the airline in 2018 to provide premium and high-quality flight services in Nigeria and Africa sub-region.

Society Watch gathered that he had earlier commenced with two Bombardier CRJ 900 aircraft, with 90 passengers in 2020. But for a good reason, he had gone back to the drawing board, in the belief that whatever is worth doing at all is worth doing well.

Interestingly, he has now started full-scale commercial operations with the acquisition and delivery of more aircraft. A source revealed that his mission is to become one of the biggest players in the sector within five years.

Otedola

Ranti Netufo in Pensive Mood Popular businessman and Managing Director, White-Cloud Group, Oluranti Netufo, is in a pensive mood, following the passing of his elder sister, Princess Omobamitale Olayinka (Nee Netufo) penultimate week.

Until her passing, the mother of one was a Lagos-based successful events planner.

The shocking news of her passing had hit many, especially her family and friends, like a heavy blow. Many who benefitted from her friendship and magnanimity paid their last respect to her with moving tributes, amid wailing and tears when she was laid to rest in her hometown in Ondo State last Thursday.

In fact, as hinted by a source, if tears could wake the dead, the woman would have risen from her grave.

But her loved ones have accepted their fate in good faith and are comforted by the fact that she lived a fulfilled life and impacted humanity positively in her short stay on earth.

Not many would claim to have heard or read about him. But despite his seemingly ‘unknown identity’ he is said to have allegedly been a thick and long thorn in the flesh of Leo Stan Ekeh, CEO, Zinox Computers, in the last five years.

Society Watch gathered that the trouble between the two men began following a business transaction between his company, Citadel Oracle Concept Limited, and Technology Distributions, a company owned by Ekeh.

It was relaibly gathered that after Citadel Oracle won a contract for the supply of HP laptops to the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), two of its appointed staff/representatives, Princess Kama and Chief Igbokwe, approached Technology Distributions, an authorised HP distributor and the biggest ICT distributor in subSaharan Africa, to supply them the laptops on credit pending payment by the FIRS. What began as a mouth-watering business deal between the two companies, has, however ended in a dirty and mud-sligging fight.

Asource explained, “given the company’s previous bad experience and in order to avoid exposing the business to bad loans, if a client is taking products on credit for onward contractual supply to a customer, staff of Technology Distributions would have to be signatories to an account opened for the purpose of disbursement of funds as regards the contract.

“This is the only security for the laptops The sleepy town of Ilara, Epe, Lagos radiates with joy last weekend as HRM Oba Olufolarin Ogunsanwo celebrated his 55th birthday with glamour and style.

The event was a displayed of royalty as the palace transformed with classy decorations.

Friends, family, associates including dignitaries graced the occasion to honour the royal father.

The special guests include Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Mrs. Noimot Salako Oyedele and her husband, Mrs Olayinka Oladunjoye, Lady Doja Otedola HRM Oba Abduwasiu Omogbolahan Lawal, & Olori, HRM Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, Olu of Ilaro, Representative of Oba of Lagos, Erelu Abiola Dosunmu, Chief Folarin Coker, Hon. Jumoke Okoya-Thomas, Aremo Segun Oniru, HRM Oba Lateef Adams, Head of Ogboni in Nigeria, Chief Francis Meshioye, Oba Samsideen Kasali and HRM Oba Akeem Adeoriyomi Oyebo.

In his speech, the Olu of Ilaro wished the

supplied on credit. So, Technology Distributions appointed its staff, Mr. Chris Eze Ozims and Mrs. Shade Oyebode as signatories to the account. But nowhere did they represent that they were directors of Citadel Oracle Concept Limited.” Society Watch also gathered from the source, who said, “immediately the contract was executed and payment effected by the FIRS, Technology Distributions simply deducted the pre-agreed invoice sum of the laptops and ensured its staff resign as signatories to the said account.

“The same procedure/process applied to other customers who had similar contracts with the FIRS for the supply of similar HP laptops at the same time.”

However, crisis developed when Joseph could not agree on the profit sharing formula with his appointed agent/representative, Princess Kama. He was said to have reported the matter to the Special Fraud Unit, SFU, Force Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Headquarters in Abuja and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for investigation.

The source added that “Since the crux of the matter was the denial by the complainant (Benjamin Joseph) of not signing the Board Resolution to the account with which the FIRS remitted payment for the supplied HP laptops,

Ekeh

the police sent the documents for forensic analysis to determine its veracity.

The evidence, it was said, “proved that the documents were actually signed by him. In the light of this, the police discovered that the issue was indeed a civil case between Mr. Joseph and his representatives, Princess Kama and Chief Onny Igbokwe who obtained the HP products from Technology Distributions on credit.

The disagreement between the trio led to Mr. Joseph petitioning the police that his signature was forged to execute the contract.’’

As revealed by relaible sources, Chief Afe Babalola (SAN), who was counsel to Benjamin Joseph, tried to intervene to reach an amicable settlement of the profit-sharing dispute. But Joseph wanted the entire money without paying TD.

Encomiums as Oba Folarin Ogunsanwo Celebrates at 55

celebrant more fulfilling years on the throne and also prayed for more celebration of God’s goodness in his life.

In the same vein, the deputy governor of Ogun State, Noimot Salako-Oyedele described the celebrant as a man of honour and great administrator. She thanked God for granting the Oba excellent health and prayed to God to shower him with more healthy years.

The royal event was compered by Gbenga Adeyinka and Ladega, guests at the event were entertained with good quality edibles and wonderful music performances by Laolu Gbenjo and Musiliu Haruna-Ishola.

Oba Ogunsanwo as a modern monarch is also a grassroots man. And if there is anything that delights his heart it is his presence amongst his subjects.

Born on September 23, 1967, in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital. Oba Ogunsanwo read Economics from the then University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University) and graduated at the age of 21. After his one-year mandatory youth service with Wema Bank Plc, he joined the Lagos State Civil Service in 1991 as an Inspector of Taxes Grade ll. He got to the top by becoming the Executive Chairman of the revenue agency.

Otedola Scores Another First Exactly two years ago, billionaire businessman, Femi Otedola, proved to the world that he is indeed a genius and a cognoscente when it comes to investment and the art of making money. When he announced that he would be quitting the oil and gas sector by selling off his shares in Forte Oil in June 2019, many business analysts saw this as a wrong move. They could not fathom why he would quit the business that had given him fame.

But he followed his intuition, and it turned out to be one of his best investment decisions ever. It is a fact that he knows when to invest and when to re-invest. Little wonder, his fans and those who know him well maintained that he still has the magic with which he turned around the moribund African Petroleum (AP) which he rechristened Forte Oil. Besides, they insisted that Otedola must have thought it out.

As predicted, Otedola, who is blessed with a proven magic wand, successfully rejigged the company from its former declining state to a flourishing one that became a brand to beat in the sector. Indeed, barely two years after he

diversified into the power business with Geregu Power Plant, he has proven that he is a master of the game.

Evidence that his N64.3 billion investment in the energy sector, Geregu Power Plant, is already giving his rival a sleepless night is that the company is not only yielding good profits, but it has also changed the energy sector for good.

He has scored another first as his electricity generation company has been listed on the Nigerian Exchange (NGX), allowing the public to become part owners by buying the company’s shares.

Geregu Power Plant, it was gathered, had a market capitalisation of N250 billion when it was listed on the Nigerian stock exchange on October 5, 2022, through the way of introduction.

The public listing comes at a time when the power plant wants to expand its operations by acquiring another power plant, Geregu 2, which has a capacity of 434 MW. This will increase Geregu Power Plant’s capacity to 735 MW. It is expected to also positively impact the

Otedola

company’s revenue, which rose to N70.9 billion in 2021, recording a 32.3 per cent yearon-year growth last year.

Energy Group Boss, Jimoh Ibrahim, Bounces Back

Ibrahim

Love or hate him, Jimoh Ibrahim, Chairman and CEO of Energy Group, is a phenomenon.

His business strategies may not appeal to you, but what is incontestable is that he is blessed with uncommon business acumen.

In the eyes of some, the Ondo State-born billionaire, for want of a better description, is also controversial. He is also known to possess a bagful of tricks that have continued to leave many in wonderment. In 2017, he aspired to clinch the number one job of the state, as he dished out different antics daily.

His ambition nearly marred the peace of the state after he obtained the Peoples’ Democratic Party nomination form from the factional National Chairman of the party, Senator Ali Modu Sheriff, even though the faction was not recognised by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The gambit continued when the primary election was held.

Before then, the primary election of the more recognisable faction led by Makarfi had been held in Akure and Eyitayo Jegede, a lawyer, had emerged as the party’s flag-bearer.

He went along with other aggrieved

members of the party to organise another primary in Ibadan, Oyo State in an election that produced the businessman as its own flag bearer.

But that was not the first time he had attempted to govern the state. He contested for the Ondo State gubernatorial seat during the 2003 election under the platform of the All Nigeria People’s Party (ANPP). He was said to have budgeted about N5 billion to pursue the ambition, which saw him dropping by the side when the real players started surfacing at the election, which was eventually won by Dr. Olusegun Agagu. He took a break from politics and did not contest the 2007 election, strategising and looking for a structureless party he would hijack. The opportunity presented itself after Agagu was booted out, leaving his party, the PDP, in a state where they needed some revival.

THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ JUNE 24 2012

ARTS & REVIEW A

PUBLICATION

9. 10.2022

Vistas at the threshold of a New Era… An octet of emerging and established artists engages a sombre theme alluding to the imminence of a new era from their diverse perspectives in an exhibition by Lagos-based SOTO Gallery. Okechukwu Uwaezuoke reports

S

urely, Crack, the SOTO Gallery's inaugural exhibition, did, as a curatorial strategy, convey the right messages! And hopefully, these were not lost on the aficionados that flocked to its opening that Saturday, September 24th evening. For, besides an obvious effort to get its thematic track to segue through the divergent offerings of eight artists, the ominous resonance of its title seems to sound an apocalyptic note.

That its curator, Arinola Olowoporoku, does not lack for appropriate imagery to – albeit, unintentionally – heighten the title’s subtle premonitory tenor is evidenced in her allusion to a new era, indeed by her explanatory phrases “the first light of the day, the crack of dawn” in the exhibition’s catalogue. “It signifies the end of a time that leads to the start of a new period, the in-between and the journey to dawn,” she adds as further clarification on the import of the title.

Indeed, very hard to ignore is this lurking sense of an impending collapse of the current systems, which trails the buildup of woes, calamities, natural disasters, upheavals, and economic misery, as well as the perplexity and helplessness resulting from the backto-back occurrences of these events.

And as for these afflictions, they are supposed to awaken slumbering humanity to introspection when properly understood.

Naturally, viewers are expected to see the eight featured artists' visual journeys—Victor Ekwu, Mary Funmilola Onidare, Bertha Onyekachi, Muraina Oyelami, Sor Sen, Laju Sholola, Johnson Uwadimma, and Uche Uzorka—as the parameters within which they can gain a deeper insight into the subject. With the exception of Muraina Oyelami, an octogenarian artist from the Osogbo Art School tradition, the artists express their impressions in more condensed ways through sub-themes, which act as channels.

Despite their best efforts and zeal, their groping around the subject in the absence of higher knowledge—which can only be described as a conjectural exercise—remains, nonetheless, within the restrictive confines of their physical experiences.

Thus, in an attempt, for instance, to make the process of conception intelligible to his audience, the artist, Victor Ekwu, conjures a dreamy murmuration of occurrences against the backdrop of his life’s vicissitudes. But already this effort falters with the wrong premise that something could be made out of nothing. As a result, rather than being intuitively driven, the inspiration for the acrylic paintings “Hopelessness” and “Confusion” appears to have come from his brain working in concert with his feelings as fantasies.

Of course, expecting anything virtuosic from these emerging artists, who are subject to the whims of the

Visitors at the exhibition

A section of the exhibition hall featuring paintings by Sor Sen

An aficionado at the exhibition

zeitgeist, would be unrealistic, if not unfair. After all, authentic artistic expressions, which should be appropriate interpretations of creation’s so-called “mysteries”,

have, just like the spirit which produces them, been long banished to the realm of legends. In this contemporary era, it is therefore all about stimulating the viewers' minds and sensations as much

as possible.

This is one of the reasons why a viewer is drawn to the mostly oil and acrylicbased paintings by Mary Onidare, titled Finding Whole, as well as the collection of works by Laju Sholola, titled “Can We Start Over?”. Both female artists, who are admittedly excellent at manipulating colours, appear to mirror postimpressionistic traits in their paintings.

True, they are not quite the Matisse and Gaugin of the modern era—nor do they seem to aspire to such ambitions—but still, their efforts glisten with the promise of a lustrous future career.

Besides, their works reveal attributes that proclaim their sensitivity from the rooftops. While Onidare’s “Expectation” and “Devotion” tug at the viewer ’s heartstrings, Sholola’s “We All Try”, “Sinner”, “Can We Start Over?” and the “Monologue” series seem to direct his gaze to the light at the end of the tunnel.

Meanwhile, if the figurative acrylic paintings on canvas by Bertha Onyekachi, grouped under the title Trapped, are somewhat reminiscent of Sholola's reflections on the challenging process of transition, it is because they essentially reflect her thoughts on her battles with self-realisation. With the following, seething with a restless longing for freedom, her spirit seems to cry out: “Fears of cluelessness, trapped in the maze of my abilities, the imagined possibilities, self-imposed limitations, ashamed of my vulnerability, convinced I have not the tools to break forth. I have become a fixed puzzle, finding answers, finding response, finding ways, trapped in the maze of myself (that is myself).”

Similarly, Sor Sen's mixed-media triptych “Samsara” and Johnson Uwadimma's collection of works, Journey Through Time, appear to be based on a fascination with the concept of time as it relates to the human experience. While Sen’s measuring of time from cradle to grave is his “wake-up call to everyone to do things that make them come alive, as... as the clock ticks,” Uwadimma, with his patterned play with colours, uses the human body “as a marker of identity and experiences, a reservoir of memory, and the inexhaustible ways that gestural pose could reflect times.”

Moving on, Uche Uzorka's abstract representations of his sub-theme E Go Better... seethe with the same cheery message of hope as Sholola's, albeit subtly emphasising the ever-changing kaleidoscope of human existence. This is while Muraina Oyelami's signature neo-traditionalist portraits and landscapes stand out in their wistful views of a bygone era of innocence.

It should also not be overlooked that the exhibition's cross-generational focus on both young and renowned artists aligns with SOTO Gallery's concept of “between the new and the known” bridge-building. Additionally, the various artistic techniques used by the artists bring up novel viewpoints on this subject.

EDITOR OKECHUKWU UWAEZUOKE/ okechukwu.uwaezuoke@thisdaylive.com

60

THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 9, 2022

ARTS & REVIEW\\POTPOURRI

Consider ‘Brotherhood’ Nollywood’s Finest Attempt at Domesticating the Action Film Genre Oris Aigbokhaevbolo

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t appears that women are fully in charge of Nollywood’s mainstream innovations.

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Meditative Glimpses of the Realities of Man’s Inner Life Yinka Olatunbosun

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he aura in the secluded dark room was overwhelming, packed with messages that are rooted in cultural symbolLVP 7KH DUWLVW 7REL $GHEXOH who works as a photographer, created this research-based VKRZ WLWOHG 7DOHV RI WKH ,QQHU 0DQ DW WKH &HQWUH IRU &RQWHPSRUDU\ $UWV &&$ 6DER <DED Lagos, after a six-year hiatus from the art scene.

The said dark room comprised photography, EODFN OLQLQJV DV ÁRRU FDUSHW DQG DQ LQVWDOODtion of a white pillar supporting a bowl of JROGHQ HJJV 6RPHWLPHV WKH OLJKWV ZRXOG EH WXUQHG RͿ IRU WKH YLHZHU WR DSSUHFLDWH FHUWDLQ elements of the works. The subdued lighting was a deliberate part of the visual narrative on PDQ·V FRQÁLFW ZLWK WKH VHOI DQG WKH ZRUOG 7KH FXUDWRU 0DWWKHZ 2\HGHOH UHYHDOHG WKDW WKLV evocative body of work called Ìbòjú Òkùnkùn is intense with emotion, especially at its opening. $FFRPSDQLHG E\ WKH DUWLVW DQG WKH FXUDWRU WKH One of the photographs at the exhibition walk through the dark room was meditative.

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EXHIBITION

the bulk of prayers, advice, faults, and counsel RIWHQ JRHV WR WKH ZRPDQ ´6KH LV XVXDOO\ WKH ÀUVW to be tagged barren and encouraged to invoke the spirit of children through the romanticising of baby dolls, in the case of infertility in marriage,’’ he said while explaining the VLJQLÀFDQFH RI WKH EDE\ GROOV LQ WKH VHULHV $GHEXOH DUJXHG WKDW PHQ VKRXOG VKDUH WKH emotional burden in a childless marriage.

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BOOK REVIEW

0LUHG LQ LWV 3UREOHPV D Nation Longs for Salvation Phillip Afaha 7KH $PDOJDPDWLRQ RI E\ /RUG Frederick Lugard brought the Northern and 6RXWKHUQ SURWHFWRUDWHV RI 1LJHULD WRJHWKHU EXW WKH 1DWLRQDO &RQIHUHQFH FDQ EH VDLG WR EH WKH ÀUVW JHQXLQH DWWHPSW DW WKH EULQJLQJ together of the peoples of Nigeria to proffer solutions to their country`s fault-lines. $OWKRXJK WKH H[HUFLVH ZDV QRW WKH ÀUVW time Nigerians gathered to dialogue about their country, it is widely believed to have been the closest Nigeria came to resolving the problems of her nationhood.

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61

THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 9 , 2022

CICERO

Editor: Ejiofor Alike SMS: 08066066268 email:ejiofor.alike@thisdaylive.com

IN THE ARENA

FG’s Latest Desperate Measure against ASUU Last week’s registration of the Congress of Nigerian University Academics and the Nigerian Association of Medical and Dental Academics by the federal government is perceived as an illinformed effort to ultimately hobble the Academic Staff Union of Universities, writes Louis Achi

L

ast week, the federal government, locked in an eight-month long industrial dispute with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), registered two new ‘breakaway’ academic unions: the Congress of Nigerian University Academics (CONUA) and Nigerian Association of Medical and Dental Academics (NAMDA).

This development is widely seen as another attempt by the federal government to clip the wings of ASUU. The Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Chris Ngige, who presented the certificates to the two unions told journalists that the new bodies would operate alongside ASUU. CONUA is led by its National Coordinator, ‘Niyi Sunmonu, a lecturer at the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife. Notwithstanding that the body currently enjoys peripheral presence in few universities across the country, it is perceived as a strategic move by the government to break the ranks of the striking lecturers and entice some of them to go back to the classrooms.

Previous efforts to coerce ASUU to end the protracted strike in the public universities, through various measures, including intimidation by the federal government and court action, have not broken the resolve of the members of the union.

The lecturers’ body has been on strike since February 14 to press home its demands following the failure of the federal government to renegotiate the agreement it signed with the union in 2009, which provides for the adequate funding of the system, replacement of the Integrated Personnel Payroll Information System (IPPIS), with the UTAS, as the payment platform in the universities, among others.

According to the miffed lecturers, IPPIS has never worked in any university system anywhere.

They also maintain that the system shuts the doors against foreign scholars, contract officers and researchers needed to be poached from existing universities to stabilise the new ones.

On its part, the federal government insists the payment model is for transparency and not intended to violate university autonomy. Notwithstanding a ruling by the National Industrial Court on September 21, 2022 ordering the university lecturers to return to the classroom, ASUU remains adamant and went on appeal.

Last Friday, the Court of Appeal in Abuja added to ASUU woes when it ordered the lecturers to call off the strike. Ruling on ASUU’s appeal, the ap-

Adamu

Osodeke

pellate court said ASUU should obey the order of the National Industrial Court which directed the suspension of the strike before seeking to appeal the judgment.

While the registration of the two new academic unions triggered angry reactions from the relevant stakeholders, ASUU had filed an appeal against the court ruling.

According to the presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Mr. Peter Obi, only leaders not abreast with the true meaning of development would neglect the educational sector in the manner being experienced in Nigeria over the years. He warned that the country was heading to its doom given the manner teachers - the engine room of knowledge, are being mistreated.

He particularly cited the case of ASUU, as a strong evidence of the parlous situation in the nation’s education sector. Describing the situation where Nigeria’s education continued to suffer untold neglect from the government, he said the lingering strike action by ASUU, was the product of bad governance in the country.

His words: “It remains unimaginable that after eight months of industrial action by the ASUU, the federal government is yet to find a lasting solution to the issue which has lingered over the years. How can we achieve a truly progressive nation with education and teachers’ welfare continually relegated to the background?” he queried.

Obi, who conveyed this sentiments in his message to mark the World Teachers Day 2022, explained that teachers formed a critical and

indispensable part of educational development in the nation, adding that they deserved commendation and encouragement for their role in driving national development and progress.

In its initial reaction to the creation of two new rival entities, ASUU said the registrations were inconsequential and does not pose any threat to their union’s existence. Its National President, Prof. Emmanuel Osodeke, said: “That does not in any way affect us. We are a disciplined and focused union and we know what we are doing and what we are after. Let them register as many unions as they like. That is inconsequential as far as we are concerned. We are not also in any way threatened.

“We know our members; we know our strength and we also know what our vision and mission are.

Our members are not saboteurs or bootlickers.

Our struggle is for a better educational system in the country. If the system is good, all of us will benefit and it is not only ASUU members’ children and wards that are going to benefit from improved funding and the provision of better facilities in our institutions.”

In his further reaction, Osodeke dismissed the Presidency’s allegation that ASUU members are complicit in the corrupt practices in the university system. “As a union, we have been championing transparency and accountability in the university system. That is why we are calling for the adoption of the University Transparency and Accountability Solution (UTAS), as the payment platform in the university system. Those indicted for

misappropriating over N100 billion through their IPPIS, are they our members?” he queried.

Meanwhile, the National Coordinator of CONUA, Dr. Niyi Sunmonu, described the registration as monumental and historic.

“The hurdles we have faced to get here, since 2018 when we submitted our application for registration, have been seemingly insurmountable. The registration is therefore the validation of the power of the human will. It asserts the value of courage, initiative, focus, tenacity, patience, forbearance and persistent positive thinking,” he explained.

But human rights activist, Mr. Femi Falana (SAN), and lead counsel to ASUU described the newly-registered academic unions - CONUA and NAMDA as illegal.

Speaking on ARISE NEWS Channel, mid last week, Falana argued that, “under the current Labour Law regime in Nigeria, you cannot have two unions or three unions in the same sector. In other words, within the academia in Nigeria, there can only be one registered trade union that is the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) registered pursuant to the Trade Union Act as amended.

“We are going to have a mushrooming of trade unions, which threaten industrial peace in the country. We cannot have two unions in the university nor can we have two unions in other unions in the country. Politically it won’t work,” Falana argued.

Describing the registration as illegal and a desperate measure by the government to break the strike, Falana further said that “Government has tried various measures but the latest one is perhaps going to embarrass the government because it is an illegal exercise and won’t work. ASUU is today one of the most organised and united trade unions in Africa.”

But countering Falana, Alozie Nmerengwa, Principal Counsel at Abuja-based Dux Ducis Chambers, told THISDAY that the senior lawyer is an interested party, adding that his position was constitutionally flawed. According to Nmerengwa, “the Constitution guarantees freedom of association. It is trite in law that when a law, act, et cetera, contradicts the Constitution, the constitutional provision supersedes such law, act, et cetera. The learned Silk knows this. Moreover, it is within the powers of the Registrar of Trade Union to register any Union that meets the dictates of the Act, which with all due respect has been met, hence the registration.”

P O L I T I CA L N OT E S

Is Governor Sanwo-Olu on Recess?

Wike Sanwo-olu

When a senior lawyer, Mr. Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa (SAN), recently, accused the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of abandoning governance after the emergence of Bola Tinubu as the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), his spokesperson descended heavily on him, calling him names. But the reality is that governance in Lagos is in recess.

Adegboruwa, had in a statement titled, ‘Sanwo-Olu and governance in recess’, argued that since the declaration of the presidential aspiration of Tinubu, Governor Sanwo-Olu has hardly been in office. He added that the governor had become the unofficial campaign manager

of Tinubu, his media strategist and personal anchorman.

For many observers of the events in the state, the senior lawyer cannot be far from the truth.

Governance in the state is truly at a standstill.

In a country with weak institutions like Nigeria, when a governor or the president is not on seat to drive the process, nothing works. SanwoOlu needs to constantly be around or give free hands to heads of ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) to take the initiative.

In countries like the United States with very strong institutions, when the president or a governor is unavailable, nobody feels it because the agencies respond to all that the people

need to make life comfortable.

Presently in Lagos, with massive rains, many roads in the state have collapsed. An example is the Isolo-Ejigbo-Ikotun road, which has completely broken down. Floods are ravaging some parts of the state with people looking up to the government in vain. Others are suffering from insecurity and serious gridlock. Till date, no information on the Apongbon Bridge that was closed long ago, leaving people to wallow in traffic.

Governor Sanwo-Olu needs to come back from his recess and focus on governance, after all, he is seeking a second term and needs people’s votes.

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THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 9 , 2022

BRIEFINGNOTES As Crises Engulf APC, PDP As the Peoples Democratic Party continues to lick the wounds inflicted on it by the refusal of the Rivers State Governor, Mr. Nyesom Wike, to accept his defeat in the party’s presidential primary in good faith, the All Progressives Congress is also bedevilled by the apparent lack of confidence on the leadership of the party and some of its governors by the core loyalists of its presidential candidate, Senator Bola Tinubu. Ejiofor Alike writes that the crises will diminish the electoral fortunes of these two parties in the 2023 general election

S

ince he lost the presidential primary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in May this year, Rivers State Governor, Mr. Nyesom Wike, has made sure that the main opposition party has not known peace.

Shortly before the party’s convention, Wike was so confident of victory that he affirmed his support for whoever would emerge winner.

With the enormous resources he deployed to pursue his presidential dream, the Rivers State governor was so confident of victory that he declared shortly before voting at the convention, held at the Moshood Abiola Stadium, Abuja, that he would support whoever emerged victorious.

But after losing the primary with 237 votes against former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s 371 votes, Wike instigated crisis in the party.

He was obviously circumspect in his initial reactions after the primary due to his expectation that Atiku would nominate him as his running mate.

Few hours after the primary, Atiku paid a courtesy call on him in his Abuja residence as part of his fence-mending efforts. During the visit, the former vice president described Wike as a committed party member and worthy opponent. It was rumoured that Atiku promised to offer him the position of his running mate at the meeting. But none of the two parties denied or confirmed this claim.

After Atiku’s visit, Wike publicly declared support for him.

“I made a vow to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) that I will support whoever emerges from the #PDPPresidentialPrimaries,” Wike said in a statement posted on Facebook and Twitter. “And I am not going to go back on my word.”

“We cannot abandon the PDP, we will be fully supporting Atiku Abubakar,” he reportedly added.

The facebook post was the first time he was making a public statement after losing the primary.

Also, in his first address to his supporters in Port Harcourt after his woeful presidential outing, the governor restated his determination to support the winner.

He, however, made references to betrayal, conspiracy, and unnamed people who cannot keep to agreement.

But when Atiku announced Delta State Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa as his running mate, Wike went amok.

In his determination to bring down the roof, the governor, who suddenly realised that power should shift to the South and the southerner must be him, vowed that something must

happen soon in the party.

“All of us should be calm. You’ve heard what is happening in PDP. Nothing has happened yet but by the grace of God, something will happen.” With the enormous resources at his disposal, Wike was able to win the support of some governors, former governors and other chieftains of this party, who vowed that the only condition for peace to reign is the resignation of the National Chairman of the party, Dr. Iyorchia Ayu. With the determination of the Rivers State governor and his loyalists to destablise the PDP to pave the way for his rumoured presidential ambition in 2027, the party would commence campaigns with a divided house which could diminish its fortunes in the 2023 elections. Like the PDP, the APC crisis is also related to the outcome of the party’s presidential primary. When the leaders of the party made failed attempts to stop the emergence of Senator Bola Tinubu as the party’s presidential candidate, they had no choice but to accept the result of the free and fair primary that produced the former Lagos State governor. Some APC presidential aspirants and other chieftains who have reservations over his emergence are licking their wounds silently instead of playing the Wike-type of role. Many believed that if Tinubu had not emerged victorious, he would have

played a role that could be worse than Wike’s current role in the PDP. Indications to that effect had emerged in his outburst shortly before the primary at Abeokuta, Ogun State capital, where he cried out that it was his turn to become the president, having helped President Muhammadu Buhari; Vice President Yemi Osinbajo; Ogun State governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun and many others. Though Tinubu won the primary, the protracted intrigues by the Governor Mai Mala Buni-led national caretaker committee of APC to stop Tinubu before the primary and the last-minute effort by the National Chairman of the party, Senator Abdullahi Adamu to adopt the Senate President, Dr. Ahmad Lawan as the consensus presidential candidate led to a mutual distrust between Tinubu’s core loyalists in APC and the leaders of the party. His loyalists still believe that Adamu and some power brokers in Aso Rock may betray him to pave the way for another northerner to emerge as president in 2023. So, every action or inaction by Adamu and his National Working Committee (NWC) is viewed with suspicion by Tinubu’s camp.

When the internal wrangling became a public knowledge early last month, Tinubu visited the party’s headquarters in Abuja where he denied nursing grudges against Adamu.

Speaking shortly before his scheduled meeting with the NWC of the APC, Tinubu who admitted reading his alleged cold war with Adamu in newspapers, claimed that it was a rumour manufactured to suit a particular

purpose.

He reportedly said, “To the rumour manufacturers, I read in some papers about a disagreement between myself and the chairman and that was a very big lie. They didn’t know that we have come a long way - the big masquerade dance not in the cage but in the market square.

“And that is what Adamu use to be, full of wisdom, we were governors together, before God put us together on this project again. He is going to deliver as the Chairman of the party for me to become the president of Nigeria.

And I am very confident of that,” he added.

However, few weeks later, it became a fullblown war between Tinubu’s loyalists on one hand and the party’s leaders and governors on the other hand. The party’s leaders and governors were said to be unhappy with the constitution of the party’s presidential campaign council. A protest letter written by Adamu to Tinubu, urging him to withdraw the list of the members of the campaign council leaked to the press, but the party, in a volte-face, denied the authenticity of the letter. The disagreement over the list stopped the scheduled inauguration of the campaign council and the kick-off of the party’s presidential campaign last week. Just like in the case of the PDP, the APC crisis will surely diminish the party’s chances, no matter how well-handled as aggrieved enemies who are dissatisfied with the emergence of a Tinubu, will remain in the party to work against his victory.

NOTES FOR FILE

Ngige’s Ignoble Role in ASUU Crisis

Ngige

One of the ills of the President Muhammadu Buhari’s government is the appointment of square pegs in round holes. A case in point was the appointment of Dr. Chris Ngige, a medical doctor, as the Minister of Labour and Employment.

Since Ngige took charge of the ministry, he has not been able to satisfactorily resolve any single industrial dispute or labour-related crisis.Whether it was nurses, doctors, lecturers or other unions’ strikes, he has always handled them with levity.

The ongoing strike by Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has exposed his inability to solve the crisis. Since he was asked to resolve the crisis, he has turned it into a personal quarrel.

ASUU has been on strike since February 2022 to

press home the demand for improved funding for universities, and a review of salaries for lecturers, among other issues. Several meetings between ASUU and the federal government have ended in deadlock.

Though Ngige is not the Minister of Education, but while many other people are trying to find a way of addressing this situation so that students can go back to school and ASUU can go back to work, the labour minister is busy creating more challenges.

First,hetookthemattertotheindustrialcourt,last week, he registered and presented the certificates of registration to two unions, all in an attempt to break the rank of ASUU. If this is allowed by the government, I think this is a recipe for disaster

and it may really create more problems than the ASUU crisis.

Though the bottomline is that the federal government does not have the money to yield to ASUU’s request, Ngige is not helping matters. He has turned this into a personal quarrel between him and the Minister of Education on one hand, and between himself and the striking lecturers on the other hand. Penultimate week, Ngige angrily left the meeting spearheaded by the Speaker of House of Representatives, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila in Abuja to end the crisis. Perhaps, he did not realise that Gbajabiamila was merely doing his job and that if he had resolved the crisis since it started, definitely, the speaker would not have intervened.

THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 9 , 2022

63

CICERO/ISSUES

Yakubu

Monguno

Issues that will Shape 2023 Elections With the commencement of campaigns for the 2023 elections by political parties, Chuks Okocha examines the critical issues that will shape the forthcoming polls

N

igeria appears to be on another critical juncture – preparing to ascend another transition of power, a hurdle that requires more rigorous and preparedness. But like every other elections season, the stakes are high; tension abounds and uncertainty is also in abundance. It is this uncertainty that has now given rise to concerns and worries whether the 2023 presidential election will be conducted smoothly.

From the political parties, electoral umpire - the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) - security agencies, voters and observers, not much can guarantee that there is an existing pathway to a peaceful and credible presidential election.

From tribal, religion, violence, insecurity, abuse of electoral processes by INEC staff, political intimidation and the challenges of logistics, the signposts and indicators are ripe with unwavering tide of danger and unease.

To many, these are the critical issues that may make or mar Nigeria’s 2023 presidential race. Given past experiences and trajectories, it is not certain if Africa’s biggest democracy can overcome those potential obstacles - laying in-wait for the votes count. But when many remember that same anxieties and fears had been expressed during previous election cycles and nothing sinister happened, they resolved to keep their fingers crossed.

In view of the concerns thus far, the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD), a West African think-tank in a report highlighted the possible hurdles that may jeopardise the 2023 presidential election.

CDD Director, Idayat Hassan, stressed that the prevailing challenges at hand could upturn Nigeria’s chances of conducting smooth and credible polls, in a nation, still struggling to consolidate democratic governance. Hassan explained that the issues that will shape the 2023 presidential election are enormous and varies, describing the most visible as, “an unprecedented epidemic of insecurity.”

In the CDD report, code-named: ‘2023 Elections: SWOT Analysis,’ the body noted

the other critical issues that may likely shape the 2023 presidential race. It contended that there are worries about covering the 176,846 polling units, which would compel the recruitment and training of close to 1.5 million poll and security officials. This is about four times the size of the Nigerian military.

Beyond these concerns, there are fears that logistics challenges may be deliberately orchestrated for purposes of voters suppression and undermining voters’ democratic rights to elect a president in 2023. CDD is also worried that “at the same time, the secessionist agitations in the South-east could reduce turnout, which may not favour either the Labour Party’s presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi or Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Atiku Abubakar.”

The CDD report also stressed that “money will continue to play a huge role in determining who emerges the winner if the presidential primaries and recent gubernatorial elections offer any lesson.”

On how sentiments would influence the presidential poll, CDD added that “religion, ethnicity, and money politics would shape the people’s choice among the three major candidates - Atiku of the PDP, Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Labour Party’s Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP).

For instance, the emergence of Atiku has not been received in good light the South and many states in the Northcentral. Voters in those four regions are irked and vexed by the fact that, Atiku a Fulani Muslim, is rooting to succeed President Muhammadu Buhari, also a Fulani Muslim, after eight years in office in a country of 240 tribes.

“Religion is likely to feature prominently in debates following the APC’s decision to run a Muslim-Muslim ticket.

Renewed youth engagement in politics, a feature of the voter registration period, could also be transformative and favour Obi,” the CDD report maintained.

Again, many feared that the BVAS may be manipulated to suppress

votes or give one of the candidates an undue advantage. At the moment, BVAS has been tested only in the South without experimenting the BVAS in the North. Many worry that BVAS may be abandoned in the North and deployed in the South which will give Atiku or Tinubu double advantage. It is feared that there may be a repeat of what happened at the 2015 presidential election, where Card Readers worked in the South but could not work in the North, where voting was done manually to give candidate Buhari an advantage.

Also speaking, Director of the Abuja School of Social and Political Thought, a socio-political think-tank, Dr. Sam Amadi explained that many factors would shape the 2023 presidential election.

According to Amadi, “many issues will affect the 2023 presidential election.

One of them is the collapsed economic and social life of Nigerians. The failure of the APC government has raised the importance of good leadership. The #EndSARS movement has mutated into a political movement and will impact on the outcome of the election. We do not know the extent of the impact.

“Another factor is religion. The Muslim-Muslim ticket debate will affect voting. In south and central Nigeria, many Christian will reject the APC ticket because of its lack of religious diversity. The unknown is how much it can mobilise votes of Muslims for the ticket in the North. Ethnicity may not be such a strong factor. The South-west seems poised to share votes between the old and the new; between the status quo and the future.

Ethnicity may improve voter enthusiasm in South-east where the candidate of the Labour Party hails from. But it may be displaced by religion and social and economic issues,” Amadi observed The Abuja School Director further explained that “demographic changes will affect the result. We will see rural-urban divide. It is expected that whereas the rural electorates may remain

attached to the status quo parties, we will see significant urban shifts. The winner of the election will be the person who takes much of those urban voters who have in the past not been keen to participate in presidential election.”

Beyond these permutations of what would shape the 2023 presidential race and other significant changes that may occurr in the polls, it is almost certain that the tension and apprehension will grow by the day as the February 2023 presidential election draws nearer. The fear of politicians wanting to undermine the election is high, according local peculiarities. In the South-east and Lagos State for example, there are fears that party leaders in APC and PDP may want to suppress Peter Obi’s votes in those locations, seen as his strong hold.

The issues and threats of Boko Haram terrorists, ibanditry and kidnapping in the North-west, North-east in places like Borno, Adamawa, Niger, Kaduna, Plateau States are critical as well. Still, there is the concern of INEC officials, top ranking personnel and staff; security agencies and their personnel compromising the electoral process.

In all, the stakes are high: the economy is on a free-fall; the Naira is gyrating, poverty has continued to climb restlessly, life has become brutish and joblessness has fiercely increased more devil advocates so much that, the 2023 presidential election comes with great risks depending how it is conducted.

Worst still, the current socio-economic crisis and the prevailing dystopia should compel concrete steps that will ensure credible and rancour-free presidential race in its outcome.

If history is our guide, the pathway to a saner 2023 presidential election may be tortuous, nebulous and daunting; but the onus to make the polls credible rest with Nigerian democratic institutions - INEC, parties, voters and state agencies. It is a fight between vested interests and the people; urban and rural; tribal gangs and patriots. It is a ritual that all the stakes are staked for political power.

Will the voters triumph or will power mongers have a field day? Time will tell.

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THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 9 , 2022

CICERO/ISSUE

Oyetola’s Nullification Unsettles APC ahead of 2023 Polls As the All Progressives Congress prepares for campaigns for the 2023 elections, the recent judgment of the Federal High Court nullifying the nomination of Governor Adegboyega Oyetola as the party’s governorship candidate in the recent election in Osun State has unsettled the ruling party, writes Adedayo Akinwale

T

hough the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) may appear unfazed, the recent judgment of a Federal High Court sitting in Abuja which nullified the nomination of Governor Isiaka Oyetola and his deputy, Benedict Alabi, as the party’s candidates for the 2022 Osun State governorship election should be a cause for concern.

Ruling on a suit filed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) challenging the nomination of Oyetola and Alabi, Justice Emeka Nwite agreed with the submission of the PDP that Governor Mai Mala Buni who submitted their names to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) violated the provisions of Section 183 of the Constitution and Section 82(3) of the Electoral Act 2022, when he held dual executive positions as the Governor of Yobe State and the Chairman of the National Caretaker Committee of APC. The court said the decisions taken by Governor Buni, including forwarding the Tinubu names of Messrs Oyetola and Alabi to INEC, amounted to a nullity in law.

The Supreme Court was the first to sound the alarm bell when it delivered argument is right, then, it will the judgment between Governor Rotimi equally be contrary to the spirit Akeredolu of APC and Eyitayo Jegede of and intent of Section 183 of the the PDP on July 27, 2021 which came Constitution for any sitting Govwith a split margin of 4 to 3. Though ernor to be Chairman of say the the majority judgment of the Supreme Governors’ Forum, Chairman of Court was silent on the implications the Progressive Governors Forum, of Buni being joined in the case, the or any other similar body. This, in minority judgment which was presented my humble view, can definitely not

by Justice Mary Odili made it very clear be the intention of the drafters of that Buni functioning as APC Caretaker the 1999 Constitution.”

Committee chairman and at the same His views were further given time serving as executive governor of a impetus when a Federal High state was a violation of the Constitution.

Court sitting in Port Harcourt, Section 183 expressly states: “The Rivers State, struck out a suit Governor, shall not, during the period he challenging the competence holds office, hold any other executive of the Buni-led Caretaker Exoffice or paid employment in any capactraordinary Convention Planning ity whatsoever.”

Committee of the APC. Justice Sensing dangers in keeping the BuniPheobe Msuen Ayua held that the led interim leadership in office, which action was non-justiciable and could lead to legal storms that would incurably incompetent, noting ultimately affect the party’s chances in that the substratum of the matter the 2023 general election, the Minister bordered on the internal affairs of of State for Labour and Employment, the ruling APC. Festus Keyamo had suggested that for With last week’s judgment and the party to avoid grave danger, the its current subsisting nature, all National Executive Committee (NEC) of actions taken by Buni while in the party should meet and reconstitute office as APC Caretaker Chairman the Caretaker Committee to exclude, stand invalidated. not only Buni, but anyone holding any For the record, the actions executive position in any government taken by the Buni-led committee establishment as stipulated in Article 17 included the signing of the of the APC Constitution. nomination of Ekiti governorAlternatively, he said the Board of elect, Abiodun Oyebanji, as APC Trustees of the party, which includes candidate for the June 18, 2022 President Muhammadu Buhari should poll in the state; the nominations be activated to organise a national of candidates for other legislative convention in line with Article 13 of the polls; the amendment of the APC Constitution, where it is given such party’s constitution which was powers. However, all his warnings fell ratified at the convention and the on deaf ears as the Attorney General of conduct of the party’s elective the Federation and Minister of Justice, national convention, which gave Abubakar Malami (SAN), countered birth to the current National his position. Malami argued that the Working Committee (NWC) led by draftsmen of the Constitution would Senator Abdulahi Adamu, among not have considered the position Buni others. held as an elective position due to its The biggest threat posed meritless nature. by the ruling to the APC is the Malami, who laid out his argument in possible disqualification of all its a 20-point against the decision reached candidates for the 2023 elecby the Supreme Court, described the tions, including the presidential interpretation of the 1999 Constitution ticket of Senator Bola Tinubu and as “stretched.”

Kashim Shettima, considering He said: “To further show the meritless that Adamu’s NWC conducted the nature of the position under review, primaries. Put succinctly, once the assuming without conceding that the NWC is invalidated by the reason

Adamu of Buni’s involvement, all actions of the NWC would be deemed null and void.

But a former National Legal Adviser of the party, Babatunde Ogala (SAN), said he did not know how anyone might imagine that the convention would be affected by the judgement.

Ogala stated: “I do not know how this would affect the convention, where the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the party sat down and fixed a date for its convention. I do not know how anyone might imagine, in the wildest imagination, that the convention would be affected because Mai Mala Buni attended as head of the Caretaker Committee. I stand to be corrected or educated on that, but I don’t know how.

“What is the correlation between Mai Mala Buni being the head of Interim Committee and participating in a convention that was called by the National Executive of the party or indeed even by any member of the party or by members of the party where the convention was properly convoked to the quorum and prescribed by the party’s Constitution.

“Let me also quickly say here that APC has two conventions, one in March that gave birth to the Abdulahi Adamu-led executive and the other in April that led to the emergence of the presidential candidate, which was the convention midwife by the National Working Committee of the party in accordance with the party’s Constitution.”

However, shedding more light on the issue while featuring on ‘The Good Morning Show’ on ARISE NEWS Channel, human rights lawyer, Mr. Liborous Oshoma, said if the judgment nullifying Oyetola’s nomination is sustained by the Supreme Court, it means that every decision taken by the Buni committee, including the congresses and convention organised by the committee amounted to nullity, which he said would put the ruling APC in a quagmire.

The human right activist remarked that going by the ruling of Justice Nwite and by the provisions of the law, Buni never existed and any action taken by somebody that never existed amounted to nullity because it is illegal.

He explained: “Some persons also have argued that considering the fact that the primary that produced the APC

presidential flag bearer was conducted

by Adamu and that the matter being statute barred at this stage can no longer be questioned. But we should also remember that the issue was raised in a post-election matter in Akeredolu’s case. The judgment of the Supreme Court was that Buni was not a party in that matter. So now there is a clear reading to that section. If the other party, let’s say PDP or Labour party, decides to raise that issue after the election and maybe the Supreme Court sustains that position, then it might pose a big challenge for the APC.” He argued: “The far- reaching implications are grave if this position is sustained. The warning of Festus Keyamo was not that the dissenting judgment was the position of the law, it was that it might be the position of the law in subsequent matters, even though no two cases are the same. And that is what has played out in the case of Oyetola today.

“Remember that Buni also submitted the name of the Ekiti candidate to INEC and he organised the convention that produced Adamu. So, if the court sustains that position that Buni by all intents and purpose and by the provisions of Section 183 of the Constitution does not have the power to hold that position, on the ground that he’s executive governor, he can no longer hold an executive position in another organisation, whether paid or unpaid, then it means that every action taken by him as the caretaker Committee Chair of the APC amounts to a nullity.

Every decision taken by him amounts to a nullity, including the Congress and convention that produce the current executive members of the APC.” Aligning himself with the position of Oshoma, a legal practitioner and a chieftain of the party, Mr. Kayode Ajulo, said if the apex court upholds the decision of the high court, the current NWC of the party would have to go.

“If the Supreme Court upheld the judgment, the party’s presidential candidate, Bola Tinubu, and other APC candidates for every elective position will have no business in participating in the 2023 general elections,” he said.

THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 9 , 2022

65

GAVEL

Wike

Editor: Ejiofor Alike SMS: 08066066268 email:ejiofor.alike@thisdaylive.com

Omehia

Political Vendatta in Rivers Though it was the Rivers State House of Assembly that last Thursday derecognised Celestine Omehia as a former governor of the state, it is however clear from ongoing events that it is a case of the voice of Jacob, the hands of Esau, writes Alex Enumah

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n whatcouldbeconsideredtheheightofhighhandedness, theRiversStateHouseofAssemblylastThursdaypasseda motiondecognisingCelestineOmehiaasaformerGovernor of the state. The motion was presented at the plenary by a member representing Obio-Akpor Constituency 1, Amaewhule Martin Chike.

In a document dated October 6, 2022, and titled: “motion to rescind the Rivers State House of Assembly resolution on the recognitionofSirCelestineOmehiaasaformerGovernorofRiversState and the restoration of all benefits and entitlement due to him,” Chike recalled that on June 30, 2015, a motion was moved, seconded, and debateduponandaresolutionwaspassedinfavouroftherecognition ofOmehiaasaformergovernorandfortherestorationofallprivileges and entitlements accruing to former governors.

Thelawmakerfurtherrememberedthatinlinewiththeresolution,the stategovernmentvideaninstrumentpublishedintheofficialgazette of the Rivers State of Nigeria No. 5, volume 52 of March 2016 under the hand of Governor Nyesom Wike recognised Omehia as a former governor and restored all his privileges and entitlements.

He said Omehia later received a lot in financial benefits and entitlements from the government including N600 million in benefits and N96.5 million monthly pension as of September 2022.

He,however,recalledthattheSupremeCourtinthecaseofAmaechi v INEC had declared Amaechi as the valid governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the 2007 general election and referred to Omehia as a pretender to the office. He emphasised that the Supreme Court held that in the eyes of the law, Omehia was never a candidate in the election much less the winner.

Chike said: “The continued recognition of Sir Celestine Omehia as a former Governor of Rivers State and the continued granting of privilegesandentitlementsaccruingtoallformergovernorsofRivers State to him is not in tandem with the highlighted pronouncement of the Supreme Court and the provision of the 1999 Constitution.”

He called on the assembly to rescind its resolution of 2015 and calledonGovernorWiketoderecogniseOmehiaasaformergovernor.

He also asked the assembly to call on the governor to terminate all privileges,benefitsandentitlementsaccruingtoallformergovernors currently being enjoyed by Omehia.

ThelawmakersaidtheHouseshoulddirectOmehiatoceaseforthwith from using the title, “His Excellency”, and the suffix, “Grand Service Star of Rivers State (GSSRS)” used only by governors and former governors of the state.

He further said Omehia should be directed to refund all monies paid to him by the state government as benefits and entitlements, particularlyN600millionbenefitsandN96.5millionmonthlypensions to the treasury of the state government within seven days from the date of the resolution.

All21membersoftheHousepresentattheplenaryvotedinfavour

of the motion and the House adopted the resolution.

Rulinginfavourofthemotion,SpeakerIbanidirectedthattheresolution should be passed to the governor for his rectification.

By the time to motion got toWike on Friday, he swiftly approved it.

Thegovernorwhileassentingtoit,explainedthattherecognitiongiven to Omehia was made in error. He said with the signing, the recognition thataccordedOmehia,withaccruablerightsandbenefitsarepresently cancelled.

As if the state just woke up from slumber,Wike urged people to get a copy of the Supreme Court judgment and understand that it is the right thing to derecognise Omehia in the eye of the law.

ItisimportanttorecallthatassoonasWikewassworninasgovernor in 2015, one of the actions he took to spite his predecessor, Chibuike Amaechi, was to restore all the rights and privileges legally due to Omehia. He also hung his portrait in the Executive Chambers of the Government House, Port Harcourt to reflect his tenure, a privilege which Amaechi refused to accord him.

Wike also announced the restoration of Omehia’s entitlements, telling the whole world that he could not understand why Amaechi refused to honour Omehia. He added that Omehia was Rivers State governor, even if it was for one day. According to him, the government should not be personalised. He acknowledged the achievements of Omehia as a governor and lamented his denial of the privileges.

Hesaid:“Youwillrecallthatin2007,preciselyMay2007,somebody superintendedtheaffairsofthisstateandthatwasCelestineOmehia.

He was governor of Rivers State from May 29, 2007, to October 25, 2007.But,unfortunately,weplaypoliticsofbitternessandrancourand thatisnotnecessary.Ifyoulookaround,itisonlyOmehia’spicturethat isnothereasaformergovernor.Takeitorleaveit,hewasagovernorof Rivers State and we have resolved to do what we think is right.

“Even if Omehia served the state for just one day, he deserves to be recognised as one that has governed the state. I believe that even if it’s a single day, he acted on behalf of the state. As a governor, he did a lot of things on behalf of Rivers State: He awarded road contracts and so on. Why will anybody say he was not a governor of the state?

I will not accept such! I hereby put back his photograph and restore all his entitlements as a former governor of Rivers State,” Wike had said at the time.

Omehia governed the state for five months -May 29 to October 25, 2007 - after winning the governorship election held in the state on April 14, 2007. He was subsequently sworn in on May 29, 2007.

But throughout his tenure, he was involved in a protracted legal battle with Amaechi that eventually ended at the Supreme Court.

Theapexcourtinitsjudgment,latersackedhim,sayinghewasnotthe authenticgovernorshipcandidateofthePDP.Itconsequentlyordered himtovacatetheGovernmentHousewithimmediateeffectforAmaechi.

ButnosoonerwasAmaechiswornintoofficethanhewentforbroke.

Among the first things he did was his refusal to recognise Omehia as

governorofthestatedespitethefacthehadheldtheoffice,proclaimed thestateHouseofAssemblyandawardedcontractsthathe(Amaechi) inherited.

WhenhesignedthestateGovernorandDeputyGovernorPensions and Fringe Benefits Bill, 2012, into law a few years after, he clearly omitted Omehia’s name among the beneficiaries even though he was democratically elected.

ThoughthejudgmentoftheSupremeCourthaddeclaredthatinthe eye of the law, Omehia was never a governor, on June 25, 2015,Wike officially recognised him as a former governor of the state.

Watchers of the events in the state know that even though the derecognition was done by the House of Assembly, it was clear from ongoing events in the polity that it is the case of the voice of Jacob, the hands of Esau.

Omehia is believed to have fallen out with Wike over his loyalty to thepresidentialcandidateofthePDP,AtikuAbubakar.WikeandAtiku havebeenatloggerheadssincethepartyhelditsnationalconvention.

Wike had alleged that he was betrayed by some of his former allies which included Omehia and had vowed to fight them to finish.

“I was on a plane with him (Ikpeazu) and we were discussing and he said why won’t I leave this thing for God and I said what do you mean by that? Why are you overcrowding God? God has given me what it takes for me to crush these people, for me to crush my enemies and you are telling me I should leave it for God. No. God has given me what it takes. God has so many things to do. There are the ones I should do andtherearetheonesIshouldcallGod,”hehadsaidwhileinaugurating a project in Abia last month.

Many now see the assembly’s action as a demonstration of its sympathy for Governor Wike’s war against some of his former allies who have parted ways with him following the outcome of the PDP presidential primaries which the governor lost to Atiku.

Reactingtotheactionofthestateassembly,formerspokesmanof thePan-NigerDeltaForum(PANDEF),ChiefAnabsSaraIgbe,dismissed the action of the assembly as null and void and a demonstration of their naivety.

He queried: “To start with, are they the ones who voted for him, did the Rivers State House of Assembly make Omehia a Governor? It is not the duty of the assembly to recognise him as a governor or not to recognise him.”

“The Rivers State House of Assembly has no power to make him a governor, to declare him a governor or de-robe him as governor,” Chief Igbe added.The former PANDEF spokesman said: “There’s no law in NigeriaortheconstitutionthatempowerstheAssemblytoderecognise a governor. So what the House did today is vanity upon vanity and has no substance in the eyes of the law.

“They cannot approbate and reprobate at the same time.They are just exposing themselves to the public how naive they are and how parochial their thinking is. So to my mind, they did not do what is right.”

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THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 9, 2022

INTERNATIONAL

Coups d’état as Instrument of France Non-grata in Africa: The Cases of Mali and Burkina Faso

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eryfewAfricancountrieshadanindependentstatus before 1960. These countries included Ethiopia in East Africa, Liberia and Ghana inWest Africa.When many of the dependent countries began to accede to both national and international sovereignty in the 1960s, coup-making was generally presented as an instrument to achieve better governance and not necessarily for good governance. Coup makers often accused incumbent governments of bad governance, societal indiscipline, especially institutional corruption, political marginalisation, economic poverty and social injustice. In this regard, the immediate post-independence era witnessed people’s support for coups d’état in some countries, even though they were anti-democracy.

Democracy, not only as a desideratum in global governance, but especially also as a conditionality for the granting of development aid in international economic relations, was adopted at the Sixteenth Franco-African Summit held from 19th to 21st June, 1990 in La Baule, France.The theme of the summit was‘Debt and Political Evolution in Africa.’35 delegations attended the summit and 22 of the delegations wereledbyHeadsofState.FrenchPresident,FrançoisMitterrandmadeit clear at the summit that development assistance to any African country would henceforth be conditioned by acceptance of democratisation.

The Western world swiftly endorsed this new policy in promotion of Western values and in consonance with their foreign policy interests.

Andtrueenough,Africanleaderswerecompelledtoadapttothisnew realityasAfricawastrulyplayinghosttomanyunconstitutionalchanges of government, but without accepting to address unconstitutional practices in the continent, which partly informed coup-making. For instance, at the Lomé Declaration of July 2000 on“Framework for an OAU Response to Unconstitutional Change of Government” (vide AU Doc.AHG/Decl.5 (XXXVI), attempt was made to outlaw unconstitutional changes of government.The African Union (AU) Committee on Unconstitutional Changes of Government differentiated between three types of unconstitutional change of government but all of which are still defined by democracy: replacing an elected government by mercenaries; replacement of a democratically-elected government by a dissident or rebel group; and refusal by an incumbent government to relinquish power to a winning party following a free and fair election.

Thus, military coups are not the only manifestations of unconstitutional change of government, the AU has not been much concerned about unconstitutional practices which are part of the root causes of the resurgence of coups d’état particularly in Francophone Africa.

VIE INTERNATIONALE with

Bola A. Akinterinwa Telephone : 0807-688-2846

e-mail: bolyttag@yahoo.com

The Mali-Burkinabé Coups d’État The renewed and increasing coups d’état in some Francophone Kabore African countries are essentially about unending jihadist terrorism and perceived France’s inability to contain it.The perception of deepening removed ATT allegedly to put an end to the advancement of French colonialism is another rationale for the calls on France to allow violent extremist groups in the country. Mali’s immediate neigha breathing space in her former colonies. Mali and Burkina Faso are bours vehemently opposed the coup and took strong sanctions asking France to withdraw her troops in their countries, especially in against the Sanogo junta, thus compelling him to hand over to light of France’s inability to checkmate Jihadist terrorism which was the President of the National Assembly, IdioncoundaTraoré who the main reason for welcoming French troops in the first instance. became the Interim President. The interim government paved Without doubt, Mali has had five military coups while Burkina Faso the way for the election of IBK in September 2013 after the July has recorded eight coups including the most recent.The first coup in and August 2013 elections.

Mali took place on 19 November, 1968 in Bamako, the political capital.

And perhaps more disturbingly, President Ibrahim Boubacar President Modibo Keïta, who was considered as the father of Malian Keita (IBK) was forced to resign by a military junta led by Colonel independence, was ousted by Lieutenant MoussaTraoré. One major Assimi Goïta on 18 August 2020, allegedly because IBK could not rationale for the coup was the alleged suspension of the Constitution contain the terrorist insurrection ravaging the country.The insurand the Parliament and their replacement with a Comité National de rection was in spite of the Franco-American counter-insurgency Défense de la Révolution in 1966 by Modibo Keïta. This angered the policy efforts and despite the EUTraining Mission in Mali that had military. The coup was much of a surprise to many because it did not been working with Malian armed forces since 2013. The United enjoy any foreign support. In fact, majority of Malians were reported States is on record to have also provided commandos to assist to have supported the coup because of the financial and economic the Malian army and to have cut its assistance following the coup. challenges with which the people had been faced. Most unfortunately, And apparently because of the public support for the coup, Assimi Modibo Keita died in captivity in Bamako in 1977.

Goïta, who had participated in many US Army programmes, was Lieutenant Moussa Traoré was himself ousted under the barrel of appointed the Vice President while Bah N’daw, former Defence gun in 1991 in a second coup led by AmadouToumaniTouré (alias ATT) Minister, was made the President of theTransition Government. who was considered the‘Soldier of Democracy’for quickly handing The ECOWAS reached an understanding with the Transition over to a transitional government which enabled the election of Alpha Government to return to civil rule in 2022.

Oumar Konaré in 1992.

But, perhaps more disturbingly, the M5-RFP, a coalition of civil But true again, alias ATT suffered the same fate in March 2012, just society, religious, and opposition, organised protests against before the scheduled April 2012 elections. Captain Amadou Sanogo IBK allegedly because of corruption, nepotism and particularly

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Without doubt therefore, the mere fact that France has officially ratified the bill bringing an end to the 75-years-old West African CFA Franc simply suggests a partial reduction in France’s influence in Africa, and West Africa, in particular. This cannot but be so because the Central African CFA Franc is still in use by the six countries of the region. Besides, some Francophone countries are still much in romance with France.

They have little or no problems with the CFA franc. This means that France still has the opportunity of political manipulation and adoption of stick and carrot attitude in other domains. However, considering the implications of France’s promulgation of a law enabling the return of the African reserves and considering the growing opposition to French policies in Africa, especially Italy’s observations on the roles of France in the death of many Africans crossing the Mediterranean Sea, it is clear that Mali and Burkina Faso are likely to take advantage of the intra-EU disagreement, not only to deepen the disagreement by moving closer to Russia, they may also lead other countries in anti-French activities. The format is not far-fetched: coupsmaking and prevention of pro-French leaders from governing. Thus, coups d’état can compel withdrawal of French troops but will not solve the issue of jihadist terrorism. Friendship with Russia is even far from the solution. What should be noted is that the old generation of pro-West leaders is gradually belonging to the garbage of history. The current generation has different mentality and believes in self-dignity and selfreliance. They should therefore be treated with respect

because of the worsening jihadist terrorism in Northern and Central Mali. In fact, the Malian National Trade Union (UNTM) also organised a 5-day-long general strike, asking for increase in salaries.

The 2021 coup in Mali, which began on the night of 24 May, was again not only led by the same Assimi Goïta in his capacity asVice President, but also abruptly put an end to the transition agenda. Before the 2020 coup took place, the Malian people wanted IBK out of office but France and the United States, in particular, helped to maintain him in power.

The public protests by the June 5 Movement, which lasted for weeks and the mishandling of parliamentary elections prompted the people’s unconditional support for the coup. The ECOWAS intervention and negotiations with the coupists, which emphasize non-acceptance by the ECOWAS of unconstitutional changes of government, ignored the interest of the people of Mali. They ignored the unconstitutional practices in which the IBK administration had been engaged and against which the people were militating.

In this regard, how do we explain the fact that the 18 August 2020 coup was quickly followed by a palace coup on 24 May, 2021, that is, in less than a year? How do we also explain the fact that the AU and ECOWAS supported the transition government put in place with the active support of Colonel Goïta, and the policy stand of the regional organisationscouldnotpreventthepalacecoup?Twopossiblerationales can explain the background to the coup which led to the arrest of President N’daw and the Prime Minister, Moctar Ouane, as well as their hostage in Kati, a garrison town located nine miles north of Bamako.

First is that President N’Daw had just announced a cabinet reshuffle of 25 people which excluded the previous Defense Minister, Sadio Camara, and Security Minister, Modibo Kone, both of whom were members of the 2020 coup junta. Secondly and more importantly, Assimi Goïta, as Vice President, was not carried along in the reshuffle.

He was not consulted and this was considered a violation of the‘terms of the Transition Charter.’ In the eyes of France, the coup was ‘coup within a coup.’

Our point of emphasis here is that the five coups in Mali all enjoyed the people’s support, but the unconstitutional practices of elected governmentswereoftenneglected.CoupsinMalihavealwaysfollowed enduring public protests during which African leaders ought to have intervened, but they hardly did. They always waited until there was a forceful change of government before coming out to complain about unconstitutional changes of government.

Put differently, is the Malian coup the real problem? Why have the people of Mali always supported coups d’état in their country?Why was itthatincumbentgovernmentshavenotalwaysbeenabletorespondto public protests amicably or why incumbent governments were always intransigent when protesters make demands and, at the end of it, the incumbent governments have to be forcefully or unconstitutionally removed? And, perhaps most importantly, how do we explain the development of hostility vis-à-vis France, especially in terms of the declaration of the French ambassador to Mali as persona non grata?

AsregardsthecoupsinBurkinaFaso,thesituationisnotmuchdifferent from that in Mali.The minor difference is that Burkina Faso has played host to more coups than Mali: eight coups. Like Mali, where the last two coups took place in less than one year (August 2020 – May 2021), the last two coups in Burkina Faso similarly took place in less than one year (January 2022 - September 2022), and the profound reasons are not different: The immediate reason given in both Mali and Burkina Faso is inability to contain jihadist insurrection in both country.

What is noteworthy is that Paul-Henri Damiba ousted President Roch Kaboré in January 2022 based on the perception of his inability to deal with the worsening armed uprising in the countries. Damiba took over power, appointed himself as transitional Head of State, and made security as his top priority. However, about nine months thereafter, he too was found incapable of containing the same problem of jihadist insurrection which had remained a critical and worsening issue since 2015. Terror was unleashed on the Malian people by the rebel fighters in alliance with the al-Qaeda and the ISIL (ISIS) armed groups. Hundreds of people have been killed and not less than two million Malians have been displaced so far.

Regional Politics and France as Non-grata Efforts to reduce French influence in Francophone Africa predated thoseofMaliandBurkinaFaso.InNovember2019,eightcountries(Benin, Burkina Faso, Ivory Coast, Mali, Niger, Senegal,Togo, and Guinea Bissau) unanimously decided to withdraw their CFA-denominated foreign reserves from the French Central Bank to the Central Bank of West African States in Senegal. In doing this, the CFA, which was created in 26 December, 1945 when France ratified the BrettonWoods Agreement, was referred to as the franc of the French Colonies of Africa (franc pour les colonies françaises de l’Afrique).The CFA was split into two, forWest and Central Africa. The Communauté Financière d’Afrique for West Africa include all Francophone countries and Guinea Bissau, while the Communauté Financière d’Afrique for Central Africa comprised Cameroon,CAR,Chad,RepublicoftheCongo,EquatorialGuinea,Gabon.

The CFA is linked to the Euro, and is to be replaced with the Eco, name the ECOWAS already reserved for the ECOWAS regional currency.

What is particularly noteworthy is that the CFA arrangement is well regulated. First, every Member State must maintain a minimum of 50% of its foreign assets with the French treasury, that is, with the French Central Bank. Secondly, foreign exchange cover of not less than 20% must be maintained for‘sight liabilities.’And thirdly, each government can only have a ceiling of 20% of its revenue from the previous year at the time of need.

Read full article online - www.thisdaylive.com

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THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 9 , 2022

with ChidiAmuta e-mail:chidi.amuta@gmail.com

ENGAGEMENTS

My Crowd is Bigger than Yours Chidi Amuta

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hecrowdsofpowerwearamorphous butidenticalfaces.Itdoesnotmatter whether they are the Roman plebeians,renegadefactionsofthe Athenianmetropole,ortherough racist hounds that accompanied Donald Trump to defile the US Capitol on 6th January 2021. They are all roughly the same. Political crowds troop out in passionate pursuit ofwhateverincensesthemata giventime.

Hitler was always greeted by throngs of Nazi devoteesasheralliedpopularsupportinsupportof hisexploitsandtoxictheologyofhateandphantom supremacist myths. Unconsciously, the crowds began to salute like the Fuhrer and the swastika became a badge of curious honour. In Caracas, Venezuela, Hugo Chavez had a special budget for entertaining the crowds that trooped out ever so frequently to listen to his periodic lengthy rants about the socialist utopia and the capitalist devil nearby.Aftereachboutofpropaganda,Venezuelans would return home to find no food and visit shops withemptyshelves.Whereverandwheneverpower isinthecontest,thecrowdsgatherirrespectiveof whethertheheroofthemomentisafieryrevolutionary,preachydecrepitdemocrat,orconfusedmilitary despot. The crowd just marched in the streets of Ouagadougou to welcome yet another African baby dictator!

Inademocracy,thosewhojudgethepopularityof apoliticalcausebythequantumofcrowdsatrallies needtothinkagain.Thosethrongsandmultitudes that troop out to chant the anthem of a cause or greetthemoment’smanofpoweroftenhavelittle ornothingtodowithdefinitivepartisanshiporreal support.Thecrowdsareoftenmassedintheservice ofsomethingnew.Democracy’speriodicelections have a way of being a constant source of seasonal messiahs.Politiciansarethemostcreativespecies when it comes to creating new embodiments of promise, hope, and utopia. Rented crowds show upinthemostunexpectedplacesandinquantities that no one imagined previously.

Rentedcrowdsareasoldaspartypoliticseverywhere. They are the most common expression of democracy as the currency and facilitator of the modernmarketsociety.Here,everythingisacommodity and every interaction is transactional: “if youpay,wewilltroopoutforyou!Ifyoupay,weshall mobilizevotesforyou!”Enterthecrowdcontractor asaspecialistinthegameofdemocracy.Thecrowd contractor can rent you a rally crowd, and rent you emergency bishops complete with a variety of cassocks. Just name it!

Atothertimes,thecrowdsofpoweraremassed inthepursuitofacreed,acatechism,oraphantom ideallikethesuddenemergenceofamessianicleader.

Processionsofprotestingcrowdsmayemergewhen a popular disquiet graduates into a movement in pursuitofanideal.ThecrowdsthatswepttheArab world during the Arab Spring were a spontaneous eruptionofpent-upoppositiontoperpetualtyrants inpowerallovertheArabworld.Throngsandcrowds canalsomassupinpursuitofa‘goldrush’whenpolitical oligarchs dish out bales of cash to rent crowds insupportoftheirpoliticalenterprise.Inthecourse of my career, I’ve seen different metamorphoses of crowds in support of diverse causes.

In Tripoli from June to August 2011, combined air strikes of Western powers were pounding the fortress of the Gaddafi regime in Libya. The initialdemonstrationsfeaturedhugeimpenetrable crowdsofGaddafisupporters.Theywereunitedin denouncing the imperialist forces of the West for seekingtheoverthrowofthepopulistleader.Atthe towncentresandpopularsquares,thecrowdswere anunmistakabledailyfeature.Withabitoftraining, thisreportercouldtracktheleadersoftheprotests whoshowedupdailytorallythecrowdsandsustain theprotests.Astimeprogressedandtheairstrikes progressivelytookoutthestrategicheightsofthe Gaddafipowerstronghold,thesupportingcrowds begantothinoutasitbecamemoredangerousand also clear that the strongman had only a matter of days to either flee, surrender, or get killed.

Gradually,acountercrowdbegantomassinparts ofthesuburbsofTripolianddifferenturbancentres like Benghazi. The counter throngs built up as the strong air power of the West incinerated what remainedofMr.Gaddafi’sholdonpower.Thechants changedfrom“DownwithAmerica!”to“Awaywith Gaddafi!” The same faces, the same crowds, the sameleaders!Iwasabletoidentifyabouthalfadozen regular faces, having studied the film footage of theweeks-longprotests.Thesamefaces,thesame

Obi individuals had led the protests and crowds thatdenouncedtheWestinitiallyandwerenow callingforGaddafi’shead.Theymustbeeither professional crowd managers or deliberate malefactors.Thedaythestrongmanwaskilled like a common criminal on the streets as he triedtofleeinaconvoy,thesamefacesledthe throng of a final citizen’s parade to whom a bloodiedandhumiliatedGaddafiwaspleading for mercy and forgiveness! So much for the solidarity of the crowds!

AsthefrenziedcountdowntoNigeria’s2023 electionsenterthestreetsincampaignmode, we are being treated to a contest of crowds by the top contenders for the presidential slot.OnOctober1st,Mr.PeterObi’sOBI-dients stormed the political fortress of Lagos in a novelfashion.Anticipationthattheywillmass upattheLekkiTollGatehadmisledthepolice into supporting a court injunction outlawing political campaigns at the location. But the OBI-dients are not your usual political rally crowd. They may not even be Labour Party members or supporters. I reckon that over 98%ofMr.Obi’scrowdofsupportershardly knowanythingabouttheLabourPartyorcare about its logo or manifesto. And outside Mr. Obiwhohasbecomesomethingofapopstar mascot of a popular movement, most OBIdientsdonotknowandcannotrecognizeany other face in the Labour Party.

To mark Independence Day, Mr. Obi’s supporters trooped out and massed up from all corners of Lagos: Festac, Ikeja, Surulere, Lekki,VictoriaIsland,Ikoyietc.Themammoth crowds were literally everywhere, even on tinystreetcornersintheslumsandoutskirts.

EventheLekkiTollGatewasoverwhelmedas the thousands of youth gathered at the Toll Gate.Attheclimacticmoment,thegathered youthburstspontaneouslyintoanemotional renditionoftheNigeriannationalanthem.At thatmoment,eventhepolicepersonnelsent to enforce the court order against rallying at the Toll Gate stood at attention to respect the national anthem.

As it turns out, the tumultuous OBI-dient rallieswerereplicatedinotherurbancentres ofthecountry:Uyo,Calabar,Zaria,Benin,and Warri among others. Some aspects of the OBI-dient rallies stood out in their supreme symbolismandemotionalsolemnity.Atoddler dressed in a national green outfit carrying a tiny flag of the Labour Party emerged as a befitting poster child of the campaign. In Warri,asquadofphysicallychallengedcitizens

rallied on their wheelchairs chanting the national anthem with hope in their eyes.

Not to be outdone by the OBI-dients’ increasing showing of popular support, the other major party campaigns have latched on to the crowd-sourcing challenge.BarelyafewdaysafterOctober1st,ahuge collection of women supporters of Mr. Bola Tinubu oftheAPCmassedupattheTafawaBalewaSquare inLagos.Shortlyafterwards,amammothcrowdof Tinubusupportersmarchedinthestreetsofancient Ibadan. All these took place as Mr. Tinubu himself wasawayinLondononaprivatevacationofsorts.In asimilarmove,Mr.KwankwasooftheNNPPshowed his Kano support base with an equally tumultuous outing in Kano last week. A contest for crowds is in the offing.

On his part, Mr. Atiku Abubakar, presidential candidate of the PDP defied the internal wrangling threateningthecohesionofhispartytoputupashow of strength in Bauchi a few days ago. The crowd of supportersthattroopedouttowelcomeMr.Atikuin Bauchi is a potent message to all those who are yet to understand the geo-political heartbeats of the 2023presidentialelection.Itwasatumultuouscrowd thatsteppedouttoownMr.Atikuandhiscampaign for the presidency this time around.

From all this, the public assessment of the 2023 elections will be gauged by the size of the crowds that mass up in support of the various candidates.

What is likely to play out is that over time, the size andmomentumofthesecrowdswillcometoreflect several factors playing in favour of each candidate.

Factorssuchasreligion,geopolitics,gender,andthe youth bulge will emerge to be reflected in favour of each candidate. These factors are yet in incubation as the campaign organisations of the various candidates get to work.

However, at this early stage, a clear distinction needstobemadebetweentwoemergingpatterns on the campaign trail. On the one hand, there is the decentralised crowds of mostly spontaneous volunteers in support of Mr. Obi and therefore the Labour Party. This spontaneity is driven by the peculiar factors that have combined to earn Mr. Obi such a large following in a relatively short time.

That the OBI-dients should emerge in less than six monthsofthepartyprimariestocompeteforcrowd volumewiththePDPwhichhasbeeninexistencefor 23yearsandtheAPCwhichhasbeenhereforalittle over8yearsspeakstoafundamentaldifferenceof structure, messaging and timing.

The earliest criticism and reservation that most observers had about the relative popularity of the OBI-dient movement is its ‘lack’ of structure in the conventional sense of parties as we have come to knowthem.Weneedtounderstandthesourceofthis

phenomenon.First,therelativenationwidepopularity of Mr. Peter Obi and his movement is the result of a novel convergence. It is the convergence between the current mood of the nation which has found a credible messenger in Mr. Obi and an appropriate messageforthetime.Thequestforpoliticalleadership that can be trusted and promises a different people-oriented politics is a refreshing departure from the old politics as usual which many now see as represented by both Messrs Atiku and Tinubu respectively.

Over and above this thematic distinction, the Peter Obi movement or OBI-dients is not strictly speaking about the stake of a party. It is instead an idea of a new nation that needs a party to contest the next election. At best, it is a movement party, a commonfeatureofthenewwavepopulistdemocratic movementsinpartsoftheworldlikeChile,Hungary, andabitofpost-MugabeZimbabwe.Inthecontext ofamovementparty,then,thestructureisnotvertical from top to bottom as it obtains in conventional parties. In that old model, authority is passed down ahierarchythatflowsdownfromthenational,zonal, state, local government, and ward levels.

In contrast, the movement- the party has a horizontalbottom-upstructure.Authorityisdispersed and derives from voluntary individuals and citizen groups. It is the broad horizontal support base of the citizens that empowers the structures of the partytoactontheirbehalf.Authority,power,control, and even funding are derived from the bottom and flow up to support the common national cause.

What powers the movement party is the shared conviction, the belief in an idea whose time has come. That horizontal imperative cuts across and through all other divide religion, ethnicity, region, andclass.Itisthefactthatthebroadcitizenrywants to transcend these barriers that hold a movement partytogetherandmakesitdifferent.Itistherefore wrong to dismiss the OBI-dients as being without a structure. Their structure is inherent in what they are, a popular movement that needs a party logo to legitimize its quest for power. That we do not know or understand something does not mean that it does not exist!

This structural difference also implies different campaignformats.Theconventionalpartieswillorganiseralliesatstate capitals, mass up supporters (rented or otherwise) in stadia, huge town halls, and other gathering places. There, they will be addressed by a gamut of party hierarchy and chieftains. By the time it comes to the turn of the flag bearer or presidential candidate to speak, the crowdwillhavebuiltupintoafrenziedcacophonous babel and rowdy tumult. The candidate will be lucky to utter more than party slogans and silly catchphrases: “PDP! Power!!”, “APC! Change!!” etc.

In the process, effective communication with the crowd is lost as there is nothing said at the rally thatcanbequotedthereafter.Thatishowcomewe have candidates that no one can hold accountable for any promises made at campaign rallies.

On the contrary, a movement party imposes a different campaign format and communication imperative. The campaigns even in a state cannot hold in any one location. Wherever there is a reasonable demographics of followers, a major march through the town takes place. It is hardly ever a stationary campaign. It is a moving train of citizen followers and advocates organising themselves on a volunteer basis. Social media is the standard communication platform of the campaign. Once the central message from the movement leadership is issued, it spirals, trends, and goes viral among all followers and advocates.

The message is usually simple and direct to the broadmajority:“Wewanttotakebackourcountry!”

“It is time to return the country to YOU!”, “Power belongs to YOU. We are running for power through YOU”! etc.

There is nothing in this distinction between the two models on display that as yet confers an electoral advantage on either in the imminent confrontation in Nigeria. But the emergence of the OBI-dients on the Nigerian political scene is a novel disruptive phenomenon. We need to better understand its popularity, pattern of campaigning, and crowd-sourcing template. There is already evidence that the conventional parties will try to emulatesomefeaturesofthemovementformat-like street marches- as against stationary fixed venue campaigns.

Ultimately,however,itistheextentofmobilization andthemixoffactorsatplayinavastcountrysuchas thisthatwilldeterminewhobecomesNigeria’snext president.Itwillnotbejustthesizeofcrowdsalone.

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NEWS

News Editor: Gboyega Akinsanmi E-mail: gboyega.akinsanmi@thisdaylive.com,08152359253

FG Blames State Govts for Disregarding Early Warnings on Flooding Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja The federal government yesterday blamed state and local governments for disregarding “adequate and timely warnings” and weather advisories issued by its various agencies such as the Nigeria Hydrological Services (NIHSA) and the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) to avert flood disaster in 2022.

Also, the apex government

noted that the sub-national governments should responsibility for the damage flood had caused in their territories.

The Director General of NIHSA, Clement Nze made the remarks during a television programme yesterday, lamenting that the sub-national governments did not honour early warning signs issued by federal agencies.

Nze said: “If our predictions

Mavaro Honours THISDAY Reporter, 21 Others Rebecca Ejifoma

The maiden edition of Mavaro award is set to honour THISDAY arts and culture reporter, Yinka Olatunbosun and 21 others for their unmatchable achievements in their various fields.

Organised by Mavaro House Africa in collaboration with Paulson Foundation, the Mavaro award will be held on Sunday, October 9 at Mavaro House, Lekki Scheme II area of Lagos.

This is an achievement award in recognition of deserving individuals and organisations whose works have, in one way or the other, influenced entertainment, pop culture and humanitarian sectors.

Other awardees include Edna Ekhator (Humanitarian),

Josephine Giegbefumwen (Humanitarian), Elvis Oni (Social media), Thick Barbie (Fashion), Success Asibor (Nollywood), Jesse Ekwerike (Nollywood), Tony Romeo (Nollywood), Moses Solomon (Entertainment) Cathy Williams (Nollywood), Fast lane (Entertainment), D Black. Star Prince, Otinocomedian, Emmy–J Flex (Entertainment), MC Shakara, Princess Ikedi Deborah aka Rich D (Entertainment), Prince Abolore Olusesi (Education), Ktunes (Entertainment), Rex Osagiede (Educational Foundational), Winner Akinronbi Michael (Entertainment).

The Assistant Coordinator, Humphrey Paulson on behalf of the founder of the award, Ehis Paulson, remarked that the selection was based on merit.

Jehovah’s Witness Marks Global Mental Health Day Jehovah’s Witness (JW), a millenarian restorationist Christian denomination has revealed its plan to make mental health a global priority.

This was revealed in a statement

by JW’s spokesman in Nigeria, Olusegun Eroyemi to mark the 2022 Global Mental Health Day scheduled tomorrow under a theme: “Make Mental Health for all a Global Priority.”

The statement revealed that the fellowship had done this through its bible-based global message of hope, and her website, jw.org filled with publications on how to cope with mental health and how family members and friends can provide support.

According to him, “Our website is translated into some 1,060 languages. There is a lack

of awareness about mental health, and people easily attribute the condition to various factors that only worsen the plight of victims.

Mental health can be managed, and caregivers need care.

“The jw.org website provides materials in a variety of languages on subjects like, ‘Do You Need Tranquilizers to Cope?’, ‘How to Deal with Isolation’, ‘What You Should Know About Mental Disorders’, ‘Teen Depression—Why?’ “Additionally, there are videos and real-life stories that are helpful. These materials can be downloaded for free.”

Eroyemi says as life becomes more difficult to cope with, the effect on mental health becomes more observable. He explains that Jehovah’s Witnesses will continue to share the bible’s comforting message that gives hope to everyone.

Glo Announces New Auto Credit Service Leading digital and telecommunications service provider, Globacom, has hosted captains of industry, Nigeria’s business elite and select business associates to an exquisite evening to celebrate innovation at Eko Hotels & Suite, Victoria Island.

The well-attended event which was aptly themed Pushing The Frontiers: An Evening With Glo, unveiled a new addition to Glo’s E-top up services called, Auto Credit, which will provide seamless transition and connection for customers who run out of credit mid-conversation.

The event served to officially introduce the telecoms service provider’s Payment Service Bank - Money Master PSB.

The financial services subsidiary, commenced business recently with the over-arching objective to drive the Central Bank of Nigeria’s mandate of 95 percent financial inclusion by 2024.

Globacom’s Head of Enterprise Business, Zakari Usman kicked off the event by referencing the network’s commitment to innovative and value adding services. He reminded the guests of Glo’s innovative disruption of the telecoms market with various products from per second billing to Blackberry Services to 4G Data to VAS - Borrow me data service to Digital – GloCafe and GloTV. Glo Berekete 10X, digital and VAS products like e-top up and the annual end of year promos.

were heeded by relevant subnationals, we will not have been where we are today. But I am believing that following this year’s flood disaster across the land, the consciousness of relevant actors especially subnationals will be awakened to do the needful once they receive all these advisories.”

He also said the Minister of Water Resources, Suleiman Adamu, earlier in the year wrote letters to state governors informing them of the impending devastating floods of 2022 but some of the governors did not

heed the warning.

Nze explained that weather predictions were out early enough to set the tone for what to expect in the course of the year. The NiMet came out with February 15 to paint the picture of what to expect most likely and my own agency, Nigeria Hydrological Services, later followed suit.

“The Minister of Water Resources that gave the unveiling of the prediction, the annual flood outlook, issued warnings, issued letters to each state government in Nigeria and relevant ministries

like agriculture, environment and aviation, informing them the specific locations in their states they should watch out for during the rainy season.

“The letters were authored by him (minister), signed and sent to the governors, they were informed and the necessary measures they ought to take.”

As a result of massive flooding, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) revealed at the weekend that over 300 persons had been killed across all states affected by the devastating

floods.

Hundreds of communities have been submerged in Delta, Anambra, Bayelsa, Adamawa, Taraba, Benue, Kogi, Jigawa, Kano, Sokoto, amongst others with thousands of residents displaced and hectares of farmlands washed away, a development that analysts have opined could aggravate food crisis.

NEMA also warned that the 2022 flood disaster will be worse than that of 2012 when at least 363 people were killed and over 2.1 million people were displaced by floods.

PROUD BOYS OF GCUOBA… L-R: Chairman of the National Dinner Committee for the Government College, Ughelli Old Boys’ Association’s Ninth Annual Dinner, Dr. Alfred Okoigun; President General, Worldwide (GCUOBA), Chief Charles Majoroh; Secretary General, GCUOBA, Most Senior Evangelist Roy Odoko; and a Member of 2022 LOC, Mr. Egra Akpofure, during the press conference by the association to announce the forthcoming ninth annual dinner and fundraising in Lagos...yesterday Abiodun Ajala

IMO, MOWCA Agree on Joint Action Plan for Maritime Security Chibuzor Oluchi The International Maritime Organisation (IMO) and Maritime Organisation of West and Central Africa (MOWCA) have agreed on a Joint Action Plan (JAP) to promote maritime security, safe, efficient and environment friendly shipping.

The JAP, which was agreed upon at IMO headquarters in London on Thursday had IMO Secretary General, Kitack Lim, MOWCA Secretary General, Dr

Paul Adalikwu and transportation ministers from West and Central African countries in attendance.

Both bodies agreed that the JAP be operational from 2022 to 2032 in the first phase and implemented to align towards the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), African Maritime Transport Charter, African Integrated Maritime Strategy 2050, and African Charter on Maritime Security, Safety and Development.

Adalikwu described the JAP as a bold step towards ensuring improved safety of ships, crew members and cargoes on African waters especially in the West and Central African regions.

He added that the move would engender more technical cooperation between IMO and MOWCA for strategic human capital development that will leverage on technology.

He said African countries commitment to New technologies

for greener shipping, which is the IMO’s 2022 theme requires short, medium and long term approaches for environmental sustainability.

Adalikwu disclosed that the JAP will aim at enhancing the implementation, at the regional lever, of the extant MOWCA Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) of the Sub-Regional Integrated Coast Guard Function Network for West and Central Africa signed in Dakar 2008.

WHO Unveils Campaign to Stop Suicide in Nigeria, Others Sunday Ehigiator

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has kicked off a campaign to raise awareness and spur action for suicide prevention in the African region, which according to it, has the world’s highest rates of death by suicide.

According to it, around 11 people per 100,000 per year die by suicide in the African region, higher than the global average

of nine per 100,000 people.

This is due in part to insufficient action to address and prevent the risk factors, including mental health conditions which currently affect 116 million people, up from 53 million in 1990, a statement

by WHO says.

Consequently, ahead of World Mental Health Day on October 10, WHO launched a social media campaign aimed at reaching 10 million people

across the region.

It is to raise public awareness and galvanise the support of governments and policymakers to increase focus and funding for mental health programming, including suicide prevention efforts.

Such efforts include equipping health workers to better support those dealing with suicidal thoughts and educating people who may experience these thoughts

on where to go for help.

As well as sensitising the public on how to identify and help those in need and to help tackle the stigma associated with suicide, epilepsy, mental health conditions and alcohol and drug abuse.

The 2022 World Mental Health Day is being marked under the theme “Make Mental Health and Well-Being for All a Global Priority”.

IPOB Denies Plans to Disrupt 2023 Elections in S’East David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) yesterday denied reports that it had no plan to disrupt election in South-east in 2023.

In a statement yesterday, IPOB’s Media and Publicity Secretary, Emma Powerful said there was no truth in any information circulating on plans by the group to disrupt the 2023 election in Igboland.

The group rather accused the federal government of mastermind-

ing insecurity in the South East zone, with the hope of causing fear and accusing IPOB of their deeds.

A recent video of a breakaway member of IPOB, Mr Simon Ekpa recently surfaced on the Internet, where he said the group would not let any election hold in Biafraland.

But Powerful said IPOB leadership “has for the umpteenth time stated unequivocally that part of our modus operandi in

our agitation for freedom has never been, is not and will not be violent agitation.

“This explains our consistent demand for the UN to organise a Referendum in the Biafran territory for the Biafran people to determine their destiny.

“To this effect, IPOB is neither contemplating nor will it encourage or sponsor anyone or group to disrupt the Nigeria shambolic selection process called election.

“IPOB has constantly made it

public that we have no interest in and cannot legitimise the aberration they call election in Nigeria.

We are a focused, determined and disciplined freedom fighting movement not political thugs.

“IPOB is devoted to the cause of liberating our people from subjugation and from modern day slavery and Neocolonialism and will not allow ourselves to be distracted from this very objective,” Powerful said.

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T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R OCTOBER 9, 2022

NEWS Customs Intercepts 38 Trucks of Foreign Rice in Ogun James Sowole in Abeokuta The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun State Command, has disclosed that it intercepted a total of 11, 358 bags of foreign parboiled rice being imported into the country between July and September.

This is in addition to the

seizure of 1, 550 units of disused tyres and 180 bales of secondhand clothing evacuated from a warehouse situated along the Lagos – Ibadan expressway in Ogun State by the command’s anti – smuggling operatives who acted on intelligence for the operation within the period under review.

Gunmen Kill Younger Brother to YPP Guber Candidate in A’Ibom Okon Bassey in Uyo Gunmen at the weekend killed Albert Akpan, the younger brother to the gubernatorial candidate of Young Progressives Party (YPP) in Akwa Ibom State, Senator Bassey Akpan.

Also, Chief Protocol Officer of the candidate, Imoh Isang and Police Orderly, Linus Odey were murdered alongside the younger brother to the candidate while returning from Imo State to Akwa Ibom State Friday night.

Consequently, the gruesome murder of Akpan and two of its aides has thrown the campaign organisation of the governorship candidate and the state into deep mourning.

Accordingly, all activities of the Akwa Ubok Abasi Campaign Council are suspended immediately till midnight of October 14 .

Communications Director, Bassey Akpan Campaign Council, Dr Usoro Usoro

confirmed the incident in a statement yesterday.

According to the statement, during this period, we, as brothers and sisters in the clan of God, are all enjoined to pray for the families of our departed brothers, friends and colleagues.”

Meanwhile, Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr Udom Emmanuel has expressed deep condolences to Akpan on the demise of his younger brother and two of his aides who were gruesomely murdered in Imo State Friday night.

Emmanuel, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary and Senior Special Assistant Media, Ekerete Udoh said the governor was “profoundly saddened by the death of Senator Akpan’s sibling and his close aides.”

“The loss of a sibling can be an emotionally wrenching experience.

“To lose two close aides under tragic circumstances, a few hours later, is even more devastating.

APC Berates Wike for Banning Use of Public Schools for Campaigns Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt The All Progressives Congress (APC), Rivers State, yesterday criticised Governor Nyesom Wike over the ban on the use of public schools in the state for political campaigns without permission from the State Ministry of Education.

Likewise, a legal practitioner, Dr. Chukwuma Chinwo faulted the governor, noting that he had benefitted from the process during his campaigns ahead of the 2015 and 2019 governorship elections in the

State.

In a statement by its acting Publicity Secretary, Darlington Nwauju yesterday, the APC said: “We wish to draw the attention of the public to Section 91 of the 2022 Electoral Act, which resonates with Section 40 of the Constitution.”

Wike had in a statewide broadcast announced that he had signed Executive Order 21, directing political parties to pay a whopping sum of N5 million to the state government for security before getting approval to use public schools for political campaigns.

NCAC Honours Oduoza, Okonjo-Iweala The Nigerian-Canadian Association of Calgary (NCAC) has conferred its Distinguished Citizen Award on the Chairman and Founder of NOVA Merchant Bank, Mr. Phillips Oduoza, in recognition of his sterling contributions to the development of the financial services sector in Nigeria and beyond.

The association also honoured Dr Ngozi OkonjoIweala, the Director-General of World Trade Organisation (WTO) and former Minister of Finance, during its Gala Night event to mark Nigeria’s Independence Day in Calgary, Canada last weekend.

The President, NCAC, Dr. Patrick Etokudo, who spoke at the event said Oduoza and Okonjo-Iweala were honoured

because of their distinguished services and contributions to the financial and economic development of Nigeria, Africa and the world at large.

“In these two Nigerians – Oduoza and Okonjo-Iweala, we have esteemed personalities who have shown commitment to the growth of mankind and NigerianCanadian relationships with their contributions, thus representing the best of Nigeria,” Etokudo said.

Phillips Oduoza has over 30 years banking experience in major financial institutions and is the founder and Chairman of the board of Nova Merchant Bank Limited. He is an internationally recognized and accomplished banker with diverse knowledge and experience in commercial and corporate banking.

The command’s Area Controller, Comptroller Bamidele Makinde disclosed this while briefing newsmen in Idiroko in Ipokia Local Government Area of Ogun State on the activities of his command for the 3rd quarter of 2022.

While disclosing that the seized 11, 358 bags of foreign parboiled rice, each weighing 50 kilograms represented about 38 trailer trucks load, the Makinde also gave the total

Duty Payable Value (DPV) of the contraband seized as over N341 million, with the sum of over N38. 5 million being an amount generated as revenue for the 3rd quarter of year.

Makinde, who expressed satisfaction in what he described as a reduction in the smuggling activities in the command during the past nine months, attributed the feat recorded by NSC to a successful stakehold-

ers’ engagement and spirit of patriotism deployed by the NCS personnel in the discharge of their duties for the economic development and security of country.

“We were able to achieve this feat with the effective use of intelligence. Recalcitrant smugglers should therefore, note that the command, through shrewd, intensive and choking antismuggling activities, driven

by effective employment of timeous intelligence is all out for them”.

“It is important to note that activities embarked upon by the command are driven by patriotism for the economic development and security of the nation. Nigeria Customs Service operatives, mindful of the rules of engagement, will continue to carry out their legitimate duties as prescribed by the law”.

RECOGNITION FROM ABROAD… L-R: Award recipient and Chairman of NOVA Merchant Bank. Mr. Phillips Oduoza; his wife, Jumai; Minister of Labour and Immigration, Alberta, Canada, Kaycee Madu (QC); and the President, Nigerian-Canadian Association of Calgary, Patrick Etokudo, during the conferment of 2022 Distinguished Citizen Award of Nigerian-Canadian Association on Oduoza to mark Nigeria’s 62nd Independence, in Calgary…Canada…recently

IFAD to Begin Dry Season Farming to Mitigate Flood Impact Festus Akanbi As the nation continues to come to terms with the ravages of flooding in many states, the International Fund for Agricultural Development-Value Chain Development Programme (IFAD-VCDP) has said it will begin dry season farming to mitigate the impact of flooding across the most affected nine states of the country.

VCDP’s acting National Programme Coordinator, Dr Fatima Aliyu, revealed the plan during

the fifth implementation support mission of the Federal Government/ IFAD-VCDP yesterday in Abuja.

Aliyu listed the states to include: Anambra, Benue, Ebonyi, Niger, Ogun and Taraba, Kogi, Enugu and Nasarawa.

He decried that VCDP states were the worst affected by the current flood ravaging parts of the country.

According to her, immediate commencement of dry season farming across the states is our priority to ensure food security

for the rural farmers whose farms produce were washed away by the flood.

The programme coordinator identified some of the worst affected states including Kogi and Anambra among others.

Aliyu said that six out of the eight local governments of Anambra where the programme was being implemented have been inundated by flood.

She also listed some of the organisation’s recently constructed infrastructure and facilities de-

stroyed by the flood to include processing centres, culverts and mini bridges.

Aliyu said that the disaster had not only caused colossal losses to the farmers but the programme as well as various states of the programme.

“The major activity now for us is to see how we will rehabilitate our farmers. The flood occurred towards the harvest season, especially for rice and washed away our crops.

Religious Leaders Urge FG to End Kidnapping, Killings Nationwide Emma Okonji and Becky Uba Umenyili The National Association of Directors of Religious Education (NADRE) has called on the federal government to address the painful concern of the citizens worried about the unhealthy wave of destructions and murderous bloodletting and kidnapping in

the country.

The association made the call during the one weeklong National Catechetical Week programme, which ended yesterday.

The programme, which has the theme: “Lord, Do You Not Care That We Are Perishing”, was held across the nation by the body which is an arm of the Catholic church.

The National Vice Chairman of NADRE, Rev. Albert Ebosele, observed that the challenges were triggered by dissatisfaction and frustration caused by poverty in the system.

The body also called on the church to collaborate with civil societies and agencies in order to sanitise the system,

which it noted, was bedevilled with gross insecurity, ritual killings, banditry, kidnapping for ransom and other vices.

He said that the hydra-headed problems that have beset the nation should not be seen as one that requires God’s intervention only by prayers but called on all to exhibit good attributes and patriotism.

Tinubu’s Campaign Council Mobilises 15m Farmers Nationwide Emameh Gabriel in Abuja Secretary of Agriculture and Commodity, Tinubu-Shettima Presidential Campaign Council, Retson Tedheke yesterday said farmers across the 36 states of the federation have set in motion modalities to mobilise millions of voters for the APC presidential candidate, Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Retson, also National Convener of Asiwaju’s Farmers Forum and National

Coordinator of Nigerian Farmers Group and Cooperative Society (NFGCS) disclosed this during an interactive session with some journalists in Abuja.

At the session, Retson displayed a diary containing names and contacts of eleven thousand registered farmers under the Asiwaju Farmers Forum from the six geo political zones in the country who will serve as lead mobilisers in their various states, zones, local

government and wards.

He explained that the lead mobilisers were expected “to mobilise at least twenty thousand farmers in each of 774 local government areas (LGAs) across the country, bringing the figure to 15 million farmers.”

While expressing confidence that things were going to be done differently under Tinubu’s administration, Retson stressed that over the years, despite the

contributions of farmers to the electoral value of the political class, they have not been fully appreciated “even when their votes exceed that of industrial workers or urban middle classes and even the political class”.

“The rural/semi urban communities contributed largely to the ballot during every elections and majority of those residing in these areas across the country are majorly farmers.”

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B AC K PAG E C O N T I N UAT I O N THE ELECTIONEERING HANDBOOK FOR NIGERIA the lawyers rushing to court, understandably propelled by heavy fees, to seek the most ridiculous injunctions known to humankind.

Six, during party primaries, there must be war over the authentic delegates’ list. This is one thing you have to love about us Nigerians.

Normally, there is a process of producing party exco, monitored by the electoral umpire. There is an exco recognised by the umpire. There are congresses to elect delegates, monitored and recognised by the umpire. Yet, there will still be “parallel primaries”, conducted seriously by different factions, and we will end up with two or three candidates for one slot. The courts, as usual, will settle the quarrel. When you realise that the National Assembly once alleged that a fake bill was in circulation among its members, you have to calm down about fake delegates’ list. It’s a culture.

Seven, in every election, there must be some funny parties and funny candidates. You know very well that they are going nowhere. But that is your problem. They know what they are doing. As the primaries or elections draw close, they will start withdrawing one after the other and jostling to endorse this candidate or that candidate. This is a huge racket. The headlines are good though: “30 parties withdraw from governorship poll, endorse Ado John

Sule.” Nothing goes for nothing. Some will go all the way to elections, knowing well that they do not stand any chance, but they will keep telling the world that they are “former” presidential or governorship candidates. It’s a full-blown racket.

Eight, you need thugs, machetes and guns — and a lot of charms. Not personality charm or charisma. Real charms. Real magic.

A friend’s neighbour who wanted to contest for council chairmanship in Lagos state joked about how he was told that he needed arms and charms to be able to compete. He told his advisers he did not have arms but he had charms and that would be enough. On the day of pre-primary election meeting, things got heated and thugs brought by contestants began shooting. Our friend ran for cover. He forgot he had charms in his bag. Electioneering without arms and charms in Nigeria is not in our character and should ordinarily be declared null and void.

Nine, electioneering should also be considered “invalid” if certain issues do not come up.

Invalid because it does not represent who we are as political animals. How can we not discuss zoning? Whether at federal or state level, there is always an argument over whose turn. What region or senatorial district or ethnic group or local government should produce

the president, the governor, the senator, the member of house of reps or house of assembly?

In some states, the tradition is that the majority ethnic group will always use its numbers to produce the governor. In some other states, they have established an understanding of inclusion and rotation. But it is a perennial discussion.

Ten, there must be allegations of rigging when the election is held. In Nigeria, if you win, the election was free and fair and represents the ultimate triumph of democracy and the enthronement of the wishes of the voters. If you don’t win, it is the worst election in the history of humanity and an affront on free choice and a danger to democracy. Nobody genuinely loses elections in Nigeria. It is always because they were rigged out. That is our philosophy. There is rigging, sure, but it is often committed by more than one side, with parties sexing up the figures in their strongholds. The effective definition of rigging in Nigeria is when you are out-rigged by your opponents. No election can be called “complete” without the allegation of rigging.

Finally, somebody must go to court and allege electoral malpractices after every election. I have to be careful here. It is true that there are malpractices and it is advisable to seek legal redress. Many elections have

been upturned because of irregularities. The one that amazes me is litigation by those who have absolutely no chance of winning an election, much less being rigged out. But whether or not the cases are genuine, it is part of our electoral culture to budget for pre- and post-election litigation, covering expenses for lawyers and others up there.

That is the way we are, isn’t it?

There are so many other features and characteristics of electioneering in Nigeria that spice up our experience. Some are uniquely Nigerian, such as youth groups begging someone to run in an election, threatening to sue them if they do not run and contributing money to pay for nominations forms for them. We should have the copyright over those. Some are universal — like nonentities seeking offices that are clearly above their weight but just catching cruise and basking in opportunism. Whatever the case maybe, when “group this” and “group that” start issuing press statements and organising press conferences, know that Nigerans are in the election mode again. It is all politics. *Culled from my debut book, ‘Fellow Nigerians, It’s All Politics’, which went on general sale on October 3. It is now available at leading bookstores and on Amazon.

And Four Other Things…

FORCADOS FARCE When you think you have seen it all, Nigeria always serves you something fresh, something diabolical. The NNPC said on Wednesday that it had discovered an illegal pipeline covering 4km through which crude oil is stolen and sold. The national oil company also said the pipeline had been operating for nine years. How did they know the exact number of years? Curious. I doubt you can build a 4km pipeline without the complicity of the big masquerades in government, security agencies and communities. It is also difficult to contemplate that the pipeline existed without the knowledge of those now pretending to be Mungo Park. Nigeria is just an incredible story, a fairy tale. Crude.

THIS TRAIN Federal government on Wednesday announced that it had finally secured the release of the remaining 23 passengers captured by bandits on the Abuja-Kaduna train.

This effectively ends the six-month saga after 62 passengers were captured, some killed and others released in batches. The security agencies, from media reports, have been making progress against the bandits since that audacious attack on Kuje prisons in July.

It is sad that things really went this bad but any victory at all is worth celebrating. While I urge the security agencies to keep up the good work, the biggest worry from experience is the tendency to drop the ball. Please, the war must be sustained. Imperative.

BREAKING NEWS On Tuesday, the federal government decided to recognise the Congress of Nigerian University Academics (CONUA), a breakaway faction of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU). Although I am uncomfortable with the tyranny of unions as exemplified by ASUU since the 1980s, I would prefer legislating to allow each university have its union and matters affecting members should be treated at local rather than national or centralised level. It doesn’t make sense that teachers of state universities who have nothing to do with the federal government will be forced to go on strike, or on sympathy strike, with ASUU in a country shouting “true” federalism. Dissonance.

CREDENTIAL PALAVER Air Marshal Abubakar Sadique Baba (rtd), the All Progressives Congress governorship candidate in Bauchi state, is under scrutiny over his credentials. The former air chief is accused of “neglecting” to file vital documents along with the Form EC-9 he submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to back his claims on nationality and education. Petitions have been sent to the electoral empire over the matter. My worry in all this is that the APC candidate is yet to come out clearly on this issue and all this can do is to keep fuelling the suggestion that he really has something to hide. It is in his interest to clear the air, otherwise there may be trouble ahead. Ominous.

2023 BUDGET PROPOSALS AND THE CAMPAIGNS total government revenue is not expected to cover up to half of the budget. The deficit this time comes to 4.78% of GDP as opposed to the 3.99% for the 2022 amended budget, both above the 3% threshold set by the Fiscal Responsibility Act. To plug the gap in the 2023 budget, FG plans raise the N10.78 trillion through new loans of N8.8 trillion, N206 billion from privatisation and concessions, and drawdown of N1.77 trillion in concessionary loans.

A breakdown of the projected revenue shows that FG hopes to get N1.92 trillion as its share of oil revenue. This is 19.7% of the projected revenue. This is a mix-bag: on the positive side, it indicates that FG is now less dependent on oil for funding its budget; but on the less cheery side, it underscores the precipitous decline in the value of a sector that used to account for more than 70% of government revenue, and coincidentally not a time of low oil prices.

On a brighter note, non-oil tax revenue and independent revenue are projected to bring in N2.43 trillion and N2.21 trillion respectively.

The little hope held out by diversification of revenue sources is quickly eclipsed by the prominence of debt service in the proposed expenditure. FG proposes to spend N6.5 trillion on debt service and sinking fund in 2023.

This means that debt service alone is 31.7%, almost a third of the total budget for FG and its enterprises. In the same appropriation bill, N6.19 trillion has been proposed for personnel, pension/gratuities and overheads while N5.35 trillion is indicated against capital expenditure.

Debt service is thus 105% of personnel and overheads combined and 121.5% of capital expenditure. Also, debt service will consume 66.80% of the N9.73 trillion revenue projected to be retained by FG and its enterprises. So, for every N100 that FG hopes to get as revenue in 2023, N66 or about two-thirds will go to debt service alone. And bearing in mind that revenue hardly performs to expectation, FG’s fiscal position may get worse. To get a fuller picture of the approaching fiscal cliff, hard expenditure (personnel and debt service) is N12.57 trillion or 118% of projected revenue.

This means that government’s revenue will still fall short if all money that comes in is devoted to just salaries and debt service, and

President Muhammadu Buhari presenting 2023 budget to the National Assembly with zero release for pension/gratuity, overhead and capital.

Despite the spirited attempt by government to downplay it, debt has become a major burden for Nigeria. We have landed in a vicious bind where we need to borrow to fund not just infrastructure as it is being projected but to meet vital obligations, including some hard expenditures like salaries. And the more we borrow, the deeper we sink into debt and the higher the quantum of resources needed to service debt, and on and on. It is a vicious cycle, one that we must break. As witnessed in the first four months of 2022, we may even need to borrow to service debt when revenue falls below debt obligations.

Nigeria’s moderate debt-to-GDP ratio may offer some comfort but it is not a particularly useful metric in our case. Debts are serviced and repaid from government revenue, not from the country’s GDP, and a significant portion of government revenue is now going to servicing debts. This crowds out resources available for other more pressing needs. Also, the fact that

we are not defaulting yet does not mean all is well.

To be sure, we have a revenue problem.

But to continue to deny that we have a debt problem is akin to denying the existence of the sun by blocking it with your palms. We also have a major spending problem as evident in leakages, wastes and misplaced priorities. In trying to fix Nigeria’s public finance, we need to acknowledge this trifecta and devise practical and not necessarily painless interventions for tackling them.

What we need in this long campaign season is intelligent discussions around our public finance and our economy, as well as in other areas critical to human and national development. To make a dent on the economic front, we need to grow our GDP, we need to multiply government revenue, we need to reduce the debt burden, we need to block leakages and spend right, and we need to expand the productive capacities of people and our businesses. Yes, there is a place for sound situational and comparative analyses. But what we need more from the

candidates and their parties are the specific and practical plans that will address the binding constraints to Nigeria’s development.

We don’t need general statements like “I will increase revenue”, “I will reduce the size of government,” “I will increase oil production and revenue” etc. Let’s have and discuss the details: how do you plan to increase revenue and in what quantum? Do you plan to expand the tax net or increase tax rate or both and how do you plan to do that and by what percentage and in what order? What exactly does reducing the size of government mean: sacking workers, eliminating or collapsing agencies, freezing some expenditure lines, and if so, how much will that cost and how much will you save and what is the larger implication? Based on current realities, how do you plan to increase oil production and the share of federation oil and how do you plan to address oil and petrol subsidy?

The politicians and their besotted supporters have either been busy with attacking one another online or engaging in the optical game of mycrowd-is-bigger-than-yours offline. Attacks, physical and verbal, are anti-democratic and dangerous. Democracy is essentially about freedom, and it is important to respect and protect the choices of others. Whoever wins will have to take some tough decisions. There is no better time to start discussing their understanding of the challenges and their proposed solutions and to start crowdsourcing for practical ideas than the electioneering period.

But politicians will want to avoid talking about tough choices because those are not necessarily vote winners. On the campaign trail, politicians will want to get away with either saying nothing or just mouthing slogans or merely parroting half-digested ideas or simply appealing to base sentiments. If we allowed that in the past, we should not this time around because of the scale of challenges at hand. If our alibi was that we didn’t have enough time in past elections, that excuse is no longer available. Now, by virtue of Electoral Act 2022, we have time, plenty of time to listen to those who have put themselves forward, and to interrogate them and their ideas and plans.

THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 9 , 2022

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SUNDAYSPORTS

Edited by: Duro Ikhazuagbe email:Duro.Ikhazuagbe@thisdaylive.com

Calvin Bassey Scores First Pro Football Goal for Ajax

Duro Ikhazuagbe

Guardiola Hails Haaland’s Influence on De Bruyne as City Maul Saints Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola insisted yesterday that Erling Haaland is helping to bring the best out of Kevin de Bruyne after seeing the pair help his side beat Southampton 4-0 to move top of the Premier League.

Arsenal who are playing Liverpool this afternoon have the opportunity to regain the top spot with a win at the Emirates Stadium.

Haalandscoredhis20thgoalforCityagainstSaints, while De Bruyne’s pass to set up Phil Foden means his stats are just as stellar, with nine assists in his first nine league games.

De Bruyne has already bettered the tally of eight league assists he made last season, and is well on his way towards breaking the record of 20 in a singlecampaignthatheshareswithThierryHenry.

“Of course for a player like Kevin, and especially Kevin, having this threat, this guy (Haaland) who likes to run in behind with this pace, it helps him a lot,”Guardiola said.

“Kevin again created three or four chances (against Southampton), but he can play better.

Today (Saturday) was not the best Kevin that we know, because he can put his mate in front of the keeper most of the time - but having players like Erling, Julian (Alvarez) or Phil, making movements in behind, it is so important to him.”

Elsewhere,Armando Brojascored hisfirstChelsea goal in a dominant 3-0 victory over a lacklustre Wolves,whoremainwithoutapermanentmanager.

Kai Havertz opened the scoring on the stroke of half-time but the Blues could have put the game out of sight long before then.

ChristianPulisicdoubledthelead,playingaone-two with Mason Mount and sending the ball sailing past goalkeeper Jose Sa before Broja hammered into the bottom corner with his left foot late on.

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uper Eagles defender, Calvin Bassey, scored his first-ever goal as a professional footballer for Dutch champions Ajax yesterday.

Bassey scored Ajax’s second goal in the 4-2 defeat of hosts FC Volendam to move to the top of the Eredivisie on 22 points from nine games.

The former Glasgow Rangers left back moved to the Dutch Eredivisie side in summer and has proved a valuable addition.

Ajax recovered from their shock 6-1 defeat at Napoli last Tuesday in the UEFA Champions League group game to cruise to the summit of the Eredivisie.

Surprisingly, it was the hosts that first knocked on the door early in the game and saw two attempts saved by Ajax goalkeeper Remko Pasveer in the first and fifth minutes respectively.

Volendam defender, Derry John Murkin, gifted Ajax penalty when he handled the ball in the box. Referee Allard Lindhout wasted no time in pointing to the spot. Dusan Tadic scored the penalty to give Ajax the lead in the 17th minute.

With Ajax dominating the play, it was just a question of time for them to increase the tally. In the 39th minute, Bassey jumped highest to meet Steven Berghuis’ cross and found the back of the net with a bullet header that went into the bottom left corner to put Ajax 2-0 up going into the first half break.

The Dutch champions continue their dominance on resumption from the break with Bassey coming close to scoring once more in the 63rd minute.

Brian Brobbey’s 64th minute low effort ended up in the bottom right corner to put Ajax 3-0 clear.

Volendam however pulled one goal back in the 74th minute after a brilliant individual effort from Lequincio Zeefuik inside the Ajax penalty area found the back of the net to keep the scores at 3-1.

PREMIER LEAGUE

Calvin Bassey scored his first goal as Ajax defeated Volendam 4-2...yesterday

Midfielder Carel Eiting gave hope of a comeback to Volendam when he narrowed the scores to 3-2 in the 86th

minute.

But an added time effort by Davy Klaassen sealed maximum points for Ajax.

Corruption Charges: Dikko’s Lawyers Demand Apologies from ICPC

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he legal representatives of immediAccording to Katu, Dikko, a businessman ate past second Vice President of and CEO of an investment, finance and project the Nigeria Football Federation development company, wants the ICPC to (NFF), Mal. Shehu Dikko, have close the matter once and for all. “The ICPC demanded apologies from the has gone to the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) Independent Corrupt Practices and to try to confirm if our client has declared Other Related Offences Commishis assets, with the CCB ruling that our client sion (ICPC) over allegations made against their is not a public servant/official and thus not client.The ICPC had confirmed the seizure of Dikko’s required under the constitution to declare Abuja property in a published advertisement in any assets for being in the NFF executive two national newspapers. committee.

But Dikko’s lawyer, Mohammed Sani Katu, “Hence the ICPC has no business with my insisted on BBC Sport Africa that what the anti client’s assets. graft agency was doing was unfair media trial .

“It’s clear under the NFF statutes that to be “This unfair media trial has been going on a member of the NFF executive committee, since 2019 when the ICPC published notices the person must have an alternative means of in newspapers for seizure of my client’s and his livelihood as the NFF (role) is purely part-time colleagues’assets without any court order to back and not a paid salary.” the forfeiture of my client’s assets nor inviting our clients to explain,” explained Katu.

“We immediately engaged the ICPC and they invited our client to provide documents on the properties and he honoured and provided all proofs to show that all his assets are legitimate. uper Eagles defender, Zaidu Sanusi, “Fundamentally, the fact is that my client own has extended his contract at FC the properties long before he joined NFF in 2015,” Porto till 2027 to underline how Katu stressed further. important a player he has become He insisted that the case should have been for the Portuguese champions. thrown out by now, after saying the ICPC’s case Porto President, Jorge Nuno was removed from the court rooms two years ago.

Pinto da Costa, announced “In March 2020, the ICPC went to court to apply to withdraw the case as they were unable to provide yesterday that it was crucial to settle the any evidence on the properties that they say are future of the important players of the club.

“We want to renew with all the players that illegally acquired,” Katu continued.

“The court duly struck out the matter on 4 March the coach thinks are important,” he said.

Zaidu, 25, said he is excited to elongate his 2020. This ought to have ended all issue.”

PREMIER LEAGUE Bournemouth Chelsea Man City Newcastle Brighton

2-1 3-0 4-0 5-1 0-1

Leicester Wolves Southampton Brentford Tottenham

TODAY Arsenal Cry’Palace West Ham Everton

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Liverpool Leeds Fulham Man Utd

CAFCL Rivers Utd Plateau De Agosto

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Wydad AC Esperance Simba

Tomori on Target as AC Milan Warm up for Chelsea Rematch Shehu Dikko Dikko...demands demands apologies from ICPC

Zaidu Extends Porto Contract Till 2027

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RESULTS

stay at Porto.

“I am very happy to have renewed my contract with FC Porto until 2027. It is very important for me,” he said.

At the start of last season, it looked like his future would be away from Porto, but he buckled down to regain his place in the starting XI. Leftback Zaidu joined Porto in 2020 from modest Portuguese club Santa Clara.

He has made 91 appearances for ‘The Dragons’ ever since.

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C Milan warmed up for their Champions League rematch with Chelsea by easily beating Juventus 2-0 at the San Siro yesterday.

Stefano Pioli’s side lost 3-0 in LondononWednesday and this was a perfect riposte as England centre-back Fikayo Tomori smashed in a confident opener.

Former Manchester City winger Brahim Diaz then blitzed the Juve defence to double the lead after half-time.

TheresultmovesMilanthirdinSerieA,levelonpoints with leaders Napoli who are playing Cremonese today.

Tomori had only scored one goal in Italy since joining Milan, initially on loan, in January 2021 but he showed great composure to blast past Wojciech Szczesny on the stroke of half-time.

Sunday October 9, 2022

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APC to Ngige

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“It is expected of a serving minister in an APC government to be a trusted apostle of Bola Tinubu’s presidency in 2023, who along other party leaders laboured to ensure the enthroment of the same government in 2015 which they are now serving in” – The Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the ruling APC, Alhaji Murtala Yakubu Ajaka, asking the Minister of Labour and Employment, Chris Ngige, and other appointees to campaign openly for Tinubu or resign their appointments.

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The Electioneering Handbook for Nigeria

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he best time to enjoy Nigeria is when elections are at hand.

Boy, this is what we live for. We were created to play politics, to engage in intense politicking, to create, perform and watch political drama. We forget all our sorrows and dive into the fray headlong, jumping up and down, chit-chatting morning, noon and night. We hardly get to discuss anything else. Not even football can distract us. At every nook and cranny of the country, we gather to discuss the permutations and the intrigues. We know what is going on and what is not going on. Tempers rise to high heavens and gossips fall like rains. The rich and the poor, all genders, all ethnic groups, all religions — everyone is sucked in.

As the morning follows the night, so are there things that must happen every political season in Nigeria. They are non-negotiable.

One, there must be a group or groups begging a politician to run for office. The politician is ordinarily “not interested” (read my lips) but after an intense lobby “by my people” or “by the youth”, s/he will finally succumb to the demand in order to bring “my experience” to “help rescue Nigeria from the misrule of… (fill in the name of a party or candidate)”. Scratch the surface a bit and you will discover that these groups

INEC chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu are funded by the same politicians or their fronts. Some groups are created by election entrepreneurs in preparation for the highest bidder to acquire them.

Two, these groups are getting more desperate and sophisticated in their love for Nigeria that they have moved to the level of threatening

to sue a politician if s/he doesn’t accede to their demand to run. As hilarious as it may sound, there is nothing Nigerians do not go to court for. It is part of our design to head for the court to seek an injunction for anything. That is why a group can threaten to sue a politician for refusing to contest in an election! So far, no group has gone to court to sue anybody (except I missed it) but the comedy is always useful at election times. Don’t be surprised if a court grants the injunction one day — always remember this is Nigeria, where anything can happen.

Three, when the “patriotic” Nigerian groups have succeeded in persuading a politician to run, they will take the next step: raise money to buy the form for him. Isn’t that sweet? Nigerians love you so dearly and believe so much in you that they will tax themselves to buy nomination forms for you. So lovely. We have been told of how market women, farmers, herders and mechanics taxed themselves to buy N100 million nomination forms for politicians. Such selflessness! An organisation bought a N40 million presidential nomination form for a “performing” governor. Social scientists need to study our electioneering innovations and see how they can develop a model for the rest of the world.

Four, there is no election time that you

will not witness defections, or what we call “decamping”. It is as sure as day. Because there are competing interests in a party and if the people that make the decisive choices are not in the corner of a particular politician, s/he will leave for elsewhere to fight the “injustice”.

The politician will then usurp the structure of the new platform, relegate those already on ground and then take the ticket in the new definition of justice. Some will go and form their own parties and become the Alpha and Omega there. The injustice and dictatorship they were fighting in their former party will be replicated in their new abodes but it is nothing to worry about: the end justifies the means. There is another variant: some politicians register other parties as “Plan B”.

Five, there must always be court injunctions on any given matter. That is fundamental to our electioneering culture. One court will say the exco of a party is illegal and the primary election conducted by it is null and void. There will be appeals up to the Supreme Court on every injunction. There will be injunctions to bar the recognition of one candidate or the other. There will be injunctions to stop the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from doing one thing or the other.

Nigerian elections cannot be complete without Continued on page 70

WAZIRIADIO 2023 Budget Proposals and the Campaigns POSTSCRIPT

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resident Muhammadu Buhari tooted his own horns and offered a grim sketch of Nigeria’s public finance when he presented the 2023 budget proposals to the National Assembly on Friday. This is his last full-year appropriation bill, though he will be in the saddle for only five months in 2023. By frontloading the speech with the achievements of his administration in physical infrastructure and critical legislations, the president seems to have started saying his goodbyes and appears eager to actively frame the narrative about his soon-to-lapse stewardship.

Beyond what the president tried to do, the budget presentation speech provided a reminder, in case any is needed, about the current state of Nigeria’s finances, which is clearly in dire straits. The unusual long campaign period for the 2023 general election offers a great opportunity not to just restate the obvious but also for a robust contest of concrete ideas and specific plans about the exact things that can and should be done to get Nigeria out of the present pass.

But instead of a festival of fresh ideas, what we have been treated to, so far, is the usual

fare: a deluge of catch-phrases and soundbites and superficialities and some low-grade entertainment. These have been generously complemented with the optical games that politicians play to signal strength and with carefully constructed but barely interrogated profiles. To be sure, all these were not unexpected as these have been the standard fare of our campaigns for a while. But we need more because the times demand more. We are in an unusual place, at an unusual time. The usual approach to campaigning and politicking should not suffice for a time like this.

There is enough in Buhari’s presentation to the National Assembly on Friday to focus or refocus the mind on the depth of the work to be done on our public finance and, by extension, on the larger economy. Without a doubt, there is a lot to hold the president and the ruling party to account for, even after making generous allowance for the impact of the pandemic, the fluctuations in oil prices, and the war in Ukraine.

But more importantly, the presentation should steer us all—the candidates, their parties, the electorate and the larger populace—towards deep deliberation about the tough options before us, the attendant costs and trade-offs, and ultimately the choices we need to make

on key economic issues.

The president provided a review of the performance of the ongoing 2022 budget and that foreshadows most of the concerns in the proposed 2023 budget. As at end of July 2022, the Federal Government (FG) had spent N8.29 trillion but its total retained revenue was just N3.66 trillion. Retained revenue was a mere 44% of expenditure. This also means within seven months, the FG had incurred a deficit of N4.63 trillion which is 63% of the N7.35 trillion projected deficit in the amended 2022 Appropriation Act. To plug the hole, N4.12 trillion was borrowed, which contributed in bumping public debt to N42.8 trillion as at June 2022.

It is important to note that the expanding deficit and debt occurred at a time when we should have an oil windfall. Actual price of oil consistently surpassed the oil benchmark price of $73/barrel in the amended budget.

We should have surplus of at least $30 on each barrel of crude oil. In fact, crude oil sold for $121/barrel in March. However, a combination of a surge in oil theft and petrol subsidy ensured that Nigeria is about the only oil-producing country not enjoying a boost from historically high oil prices. As at June 2022, N1.59 trillion

had been sunk into petrol subsidy alone.

Quite noteworthy is that N3.09 trillion had been spent on debt service by July 2022. This is 78% of N3.96 trillion appropriated for debt service for the whole year in the amended 2022 budget. It also amounts to 84% of FG’s retained revenue of N3.66 trillion for the same period. As at July 2022, FG had spent N2.87 trillion on salaries, pensions and overhead and released N1.48 trillion for the capital budgets of the ministries, departments and agencies. This puts debt service alone at 107% of salaries, pensions and overheads; and debt service at 208% of released capital budget.

The concerning issues in the ongoing budget cast long shadows on the proposed one. The president has proposed a N20.5 trillion budget, which is 18.5% higher than the N17.3 trillion appropriated for 2022. The projected revenue for the FG (including 63 government-owned enterprises, GOEs) is N9.73 trillion, which is a mere 47.5% of the proposed budget. The budget deficit has expanded, both in absolute numbers and as percentages.

The proposed deficit for 2023 is N10.78 trillion or 52.5% of the budget, meaning that Continued on page 70

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