SATURDAY 23TH OCTOBER 2021 by THISDAY Newspapers Ltd

NCC Alerts Nigerians to Deadly FluBot Malware Targeting Bank Accounts Software uses Android devices to steal banking information 9-point advisory issued for protection Emma Okonji The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) yesterday raised the alarm about what it described as an extremely damaging malware called

“FluBot” which attacks Android mobile banking applications. According to the NCC, Flubot “impersonates Android mobile banking applications to draw fake web view on

targeted applications and its goal transcends stealing personal data and essentially targets stealing of credit card details or online banking credentials.” Malware is a generic word

used to describe a virus or software designed specifically to disrupt, damage, or gain unauthorised access to a computer system. “According to the information received today

(Thursday), October 21, 2021, from the Nigeria Computer Emergency Response Team (ngCERT), Flubot targets Androids with fake security updates and App installations,” NCC’s Director

of Public Affairs, Ikechukwu Adinde, said in a statement issued yesterday. NCC explained that FluBot “is circulated through SMS Continued on page 5

Bombed Abuja-Kaduna Rail Track Repaired, Resumes Today…

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FG: Nnamdi Kanu Liable for Murder of Akunyili’s Husband, Gulak, 175 Others Links Igboho to Boko Haram’s sponsor May pardon Saro-Wiwa, 8 others as part of Ogoni’s integration Deji Elumoye and Alex Enumah in Abuja The federal government yesterday blamed the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, who is on trial for treason, for the murder of Chike Akunyili, the husband of the late Director-General of Continued on page 5

With Peace Returning, Borno to Close IDP Camps within Maiduguri Deji Elumoye in Abuja Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State yesterday disclosed that following the degradation of Boko Haram, all Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps within Maiduguri metropolis would be closed by December 31. Zulum, who met with President Muhammadu Buhari at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, also revealed that the state, in conjunction with the federdal government, would start repatriating all Borno State Continued on page 5

HONOUR FOR SALIU MUSTAPHA… L-R: Emir of Bichi, Alhaji Nasiru Ado Bayero; Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu Gambari; Mallam Saliu Mustapha; and Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, during the turbanning of Mallam Mustapha as the Turaki of Ilorin, at the Emir's Palace, Ilorin, Kwara State...yesterday

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SATURDAY OCTOBER 23, 2021 • T H I S D AY

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Bombed Abuja-Kaduna Rail Track Repaired, Resumes Today Kasim Sumaina ÓØ ÌßÔË The federal government yesterday announced that it had completed the repairs of the Abuja-Kaduna rail track that was bombed by terrorists last Wednesday.

The Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, announced this after inspecting the facility and stated that train services would resume on the route from Saturday, October 23, 2021. He also stated that the

government was already working to apprehend those who bombed the facility, stressing that he would meet with the Department of State Services and the Nigerian Army on the matter. “The repair work is

completed. What is significant is that the repair was done by our Nigerian engineers and completed in record time. They moved in today (Friday) and finished today and by tomorrow (Saturday), we expect that the first train will run on the track,”

Amaechi said. The minister said the procurement of digital systems would be fast-tracked in order to enhance the security network on the railway. He said: “The essence of the digital security system is

Biden Nominates Nigerian-born Ebong as Director of Trade Bennett Oghifo President Joe Biden of the United States has nominated Nigerian-born Enoh Titilayo Ebong as Director of the country’s Trade and Development Agency (USDTA). Ms Ebong grew up in Lagos. Her father, Ime James Ebong, was a Nigerian civil servant who served as permanent secretary. The USDTA helps companies create U.S. jobs through the export of U.S. goods and services for priority development projects in emerging economies. USTDA also links U.S. businesses to export

opportunities by funding project preparation and partnership building activities that develop sustainable infrastructure and foster economic growth in partner countries. The president had appointed Ebong, whose name was submitted to the U.S. Senate along with those of other nominees to the president’s cabinet, as Acting Director of the USDTA, back in February, this year. Ebong has a long history with USDTA, according to a statement on the Agency’s website. “The February appointment meant a return to USTDA where from 2004

to 2019, Ms. Ebong had served in a variety of roles, most recently as the Agency’s General Counsel, and Deputy Director and Chief Operating Officer. “As Acting Director, Ms. Ebong leads an agency that partners with the U.S. private sector to develop sustainable infrastructure and foster economic growth in emerging economies, while supporting U.S. jobs through the export of U.S. goods and services.” Ebong said: “It is an honour to return to USTDA. The opportunity to lead the Agency comes at a critical moment when the world is turning to the United States for

leadership on clean energy and climate-smart infrastructure, as well as safe and secure ICT solutions. “The Agency is one of the most effective, targeted and proven tools within the U.S. government. I’ve long believed in USTDA’s mission and programme, which are fully aligned with the President’s vision of strengthening our economy and addressing climate as an essential component of American foreign policy and national security.” Prior to her return to USTDA, Ms. Ebong served as the Head of Strategic Partnerships at the Milken Center for Advancing the American Dream, where

FG: NNAMDI KANU LIABLE FOR MURDER OF AKUNYILI’S HUSBAND, GULAK, 175 OTHERS the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, Prof. Dora Akunyili. The government also said it had established a link between Yoruba nation agitator, Sunday Adeyemo aka Sunday Igboho, and a Boko Haram sponsor, Surajo Muhammad, who was jailed in the United Arab Emirates on charges of financing terrorism. The Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami (SAN), made these allegations yesterday while unveiling the findings of a Presidential Committee set up to investigate Kanu and Ighoho. The 24-member committee, headed by Malami, had representatives from the Federal Ministry of Justice, the Federal Ministry of Information, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, the National Intelligence Agency and the Defence Intelligence Agency. The government further accused Kanu of being responsible for the murder of a former Presidential Aide, Ahmad Gulak, and over 177 others in the South-East. The committee said consequent upon the instigating directives of Kanu, members of IPOB and the Eastern Security Network carried out massive attacks on democratic institutions, especially facilities of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) “with a view to hampering democratic process in Nigeria.” It said the attacks that were carried out between October 2020 and June 2021 led to the killing of 175 security personnel.

The report reads in part: “Acting on the instigating directives of Nnamdi Kanu, IPOB members and #EndSARS protesters attacked and killed many security agents, destroyed several public and private properties, including police stations, public transport buses and other facilities across the country. “That on October 21, 2020, Nnamdi Kanu through an online call-in radio programme (Radio Biafra), further instigated IPOB members to burn down all police stations and kill government security forces, which was carried out, and security personnel (especially police officers) were killed and public and private properties destroyed. “That 175 security personnel were killed by IPOB/ESN, comprising 128 policemen, 37 military personnel and 10 other security operatives. “Recently, there were gruesome killings of traditional leaders: Obi 1 of Okwudor autonomous community, Eze E. Anayochukwu Durueburuo and Eze Sampson Osunwa of Ihebineowerre autonomous community, as well as the killings of Dr. Chike Akunyili and eight others, as well as the killing of Alhaji Ahmed Gulak on May 30, 2021.” The committee found out that as a consequence of Nnamdi Kanu’s broadcasts, there were 19 attacks on INEC facilities that resulted in the destruction of offices and burning of 18 INEC logistical vehicles, several election materials, equipment and ICT gadgets in Abia, Akwa-Ibom, Anambra, Cross River, Enugu, Ebonyi and Imo states. The Presidential Committee

stated that 164 police stations and formations, including police Headquarters, Owerri, Imo State were attacked by IPOB/ESN, leading to the death of 128 policemen while 144 were injured and 628 vehicles were destroyed. It said 396 firearms and 17,738 ammunition were carted away during the IPOB/ESN attacks. “That there were three IPOB/ESN attacks on Nigerian Correctional Service, including the Headquarters of NCoS, Owerri, Imo State where 1,841 inmates escaped; that the Headquarters of the Nigerian Immigration Service, Umuahia, Abia State was also attacked by IPOB/ESN leading to the death of one officer,” the report read.

Links Igboho to Boko Haram’s Sponsor The Committee also claimed to have established a link between Igboho, and the convicted Boko Haram sponsor, Surajo Muhammad. Government further alleged that between 2013 and 2020, Igboho received N127 million from several financiers, including a federal lawmaker. The government refused to reveal the identity of the lawmaker. Malami said, “The report revealed that Sunday Igboho is a Director and signatory to Adesun International Concept Limited registered on April 23, 2010. Adesun International Concept Limited also has Oladele Oyetunji and Aderopo Adeyemo as directors. Sunday Igboho is linked to 43 bank accounts in nine banks. “The major financier of the

fugitive and separatists was found to be a federal lawmaker in the National Assembly. A total sum of N127,145,000 was received by Igboho from his financiers between October 22, 2013, and September 28, 2020, through Adesun International Concept Ltd accounts. “A total sum of N273,198,200 transaction outflows was recorded from Sunday Igboho’s account between March 15, 2013, and March 11, 2021. Investigation reveals that Adesun International Concept Ltd (belonging to Igboho) transferred the sum of N12,750,000 to Abbal Bako & Sons.” The AGF noted that Abbal Bako and Sons and its promoter Abdullahi Usman, “are suspects” in the on-going Joint Terrorist Financing Investigation. “Abdullahi Usman is by way of financial transaction connected to Surajo Abubakar Muhammad (who was sentenced to life imprisonment in UAE on charges of financing terrorism (Boko Haram). This report shows the nexus between separatists’ agitation, terrorism financing and disruptions of peace in the country,” Malami said. Malami stated that having received the reports, the federal government “remains solute” in its determination to have a peaceful Nigeria. “The federal government will do the needful, within the context of the legal provisions, in ensuring that the matter is given the deserved attention and those found guilty will be made to face the wrath of the law,” he said. Continued on page 10

she drove the development of strategic partnerships to expand access to education, health, financial empowerment and entrepreneurship. Before joining USTDA in 2004, Ms. Ebong practiced law at the Boston office of Mintz, Levin, Cohn, Ferris and Popeo, P.C., representing public and private companies in public offerings, financing transactions, mergers and acquisitions, and corporate governance issues. She earned a Juris Doctor from the University of Michigan Law School, a Master of Arts in Communication from the Annenberg School for Communication at the University of Pennsylvania, and a Master of Arts in History, with Honours, from The University of Edinburgh, Scotland. She is a member of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Bar.

to enable us to know when there is an impact on the rail. There is a sensor, when people cross the rail or do anything, we will be able to know and we will be able to forestall this kind of attack. “We will get the police to be involved so that they will be here before we install the digital security system. I am happy that our people fixed it. “I am not happy that the security breach took place but what it has done is that it has shown that we actually have the capacity to fix our rail. "We want to assure the public that beyond the physical presence of police and deployment of the military along this track, I just told the Managing Director, NRC to get us a rail bus that will be on patrol regularly on the tracks so that we can see what is going to happen even before the train takes off. That will be the measure we will adopt until we put a digital system in place. It will be end to end, from Abuja to Kaduna and it will be the same on the Lagos-Ibadan line." The Abuja-Kaduna train track was bombed on Wednesday and services were suspended by the Nigerian Railway Corporation to ensure that it was fixed.

NCC ALERTS NIGERIANS TO DEADLY FLUBOT MALWARE TARGETING BANK ACCOUNTS and can snoop on incoming notifications, initiate calls, read or write SMSes, and transmit the victim’s contact list to its control centre.” NCC said the malware “attacks Android devices by pretending to be FedEx, DHL, Correos, and Chrome applications,” and compels unsuspecting users to alter the accessibility configurations on their devices to maintain continuous presence on devices. The statement adds: “The new malware undermines the security of devices by copying fake login screens of prominent banks, and the moment the users enter their login details on the fake pages, their data is harvested and transmitted to the malware operators’ control point from where the data is exploited by intercepting banking-related One Time Passwords (OTPs) and replacing the default SMS app on the targeted Android device. “Consequently, it secures admittance into the device through SMS and proceeds to transmit similar messages to other contacts that may be on the device it has attacked enticing them into downloading the fake app. “It suffices to say that, when Flubot infects a device, it can result in incalculable financial losses. “Additionally, the malware

creates a backdoor which grants access to the user’s device, thus enabling the invader or attacker to perform other criminal actions, including launching other variants of malware.” The NCC subsequently issued an advisory to protect telecoms consumers from falling victim. The guidelines listed by the commission are: “Do not click on the link if you receive a suspicious text message, and do not install any app or security update the page asks you to install; use updated antivirus software that detects and prevents malware infections; apply critical patches to the system and application; use strong passwords and enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) over logins and back up your data regularly.” Others are: “If you have been affected by this campaign, you should reset your device to factory mode as soon as possible. This will delete any data on your phone, including personal data; do not restore from backups created after installing the app; you will also need to change the passwords to all of your online accounts, with urgency, around your online bank accounts; If you have concerns that your accounts may have been accessed by unauthorised people, contact your bank immediately.”

I'm pleased to inform you also that the Chief of Naval Staff has ensured the return of naval base to Baga last month. "These are some of the reasons why I came to brief Mr. President and I also requested Mr. President to continue to provide more support in ensuring that the growing number of ISWAP operating in the southern and

northern parts of Borno State, are handled appropriately. “The people of Borno State, and indeed the government, are mostly grateful to Mr. President for all the efforts that he has been making, with a view to bringing succor to the internally displaced persons in the state."

WITH PEACE RETURNING, BORNO TO CLOSE IDP CAMPS WITHIN MAIDUGURI indigenes taking refuge in Niger Republic. Zulum told newsmen after his meeting with Buhari that the President assured he would do everything possible to support the effort of the state government in returning internally displaced persons to their ancestral home. He said: "Mr. President has given me the assurance that he

would do everything possible to support the effort of the Borno State Government towards returning internally displaced persons to their ancestral homes. "Also, the Borno State government has concluded arrangements to ensure closure of all Internally Displaced Persons camps that are inside Maiduguri Metropolitan on or

before 31st of December 2021. "Furthermore, on 27th of November, government will ensure the resettlement of IDPs that are living in different provinces of Niger to Mallam Fatori. Mallam Fatori is a local government headquarters in Borno State. "But somehow, we don't have human population in this local

government area because of the insurgency. Now that we have achieved a reasonable degree of peace, government decided to resettle Mallam Fatori communities on 27th of next month. "To this effect, the Nigerian military are providing all the needed support to the government of Borno State.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 23, 2021

NEWS Chuks Okocha in Abuja The October 30 and 31 national convention of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is now threatened as lawyer to the suspended national chairman of party, Tayo Oyetibo (SAN), has written a letter to the principal officers of the party as well as members of the National Working Committee (NWC) to stop the planned convention as there was a pending appeal against the convention in the Court of Appeal. In a letter by Oyetibo dated October 21, 2021, addressed to the following officers of the party: The PDP Acting National Chairman,

PDP’s National Convention Threatened, Secondus Wants Convention Stopped the Chairman, PDP National Convention Committee, the PDP National Organising Secretary, the PDP National Legal Adviser and the PDP National Secretary C/O Chief E.O Oddey, Odey and Odey Solicitors of above address Suite 120-122 Pan Bank Building No. 2 Forces Avenue, Old GRA Port Harcourt. Oyetibo said that CA/ PH/341/2021: Prince Uche Secondus V Ibeawuchi E. Alex

Fleeing Zamfara Bandits Taking Over Batsari Communities, District Head Cries Out Francis Sardauna in Katsina The Sarkin-Ruman Katsina and District Head of Batsari, Tukur Mu’azu Ruma, has said fleeing bandits from the neighbouring Zamfara State were infiltrating and taking over farming communities and villages within Batsari Local Government Area of Katsina State. He explained that bandits from Zamfara and Kaduna states who were suffering from starvation as result of the ongoing onslaught against them by security personnel, were ransacking communities within his chiefdom to steal foodstuffs and other valuables belonging to residents. The traditional ruler, who raised the alarm in an exclusive interview with THISDAY at his palace in Batsari, expressed worries that many farmers in the local government might not harvest their crops due to the nefarious activities of the fleeing bandits. Ruma noted that the pillaging bandits that were displaced by security agencies in Zamfara State, had formed different

enclaves in communities bordering Runka Forest and other adjoining forests in the area where they “come out daily” to attack innocent citizens in the night, particularly along Batsari-Jibia Road. He recalled that the bandits recently invaded Yasore community in the area where they massacred 11 farmers and left many others with varying degrees of injuries, adding that the hoodlums razed down many houses and shops and carted away foodstuffs worth millions of naira. He said: “As a result of security measures taken against the bandits by the state government, especially the shutdown of telecommunication services, the bandits are suffering from starvation so they are attacking our communities and stealing foodstuffs from residents. “Recently, they attacked the Yasore community and killed 11 farmers, burnt their local silos and houses. After the attack, these criminals stopped those who survived the invasion from accessing their farms in order to harvest their crops.

BPE Repositions, Promises to Sustain Core Values Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja The Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) has stated that it is evolving potent ways of repositioning itself in order to effectively play its pivotal role as the key driver of the federal government’s economic reforms programme. The agency assured that it would not relent in upholding its core values of an efficient and credible organisation in the discharge of its mandate as it pilots the reform and privatisation programme of the federal government. The BPE Director General, Mr. Alex Okoh, who spoke at a one-day retreat organised by the agency in conjunction with Klynveld Peat Marwick Goerdeler (KPMG) in Abuja, maintained that the reform activities of the Bureau cut across all key sectors of the Nigerian economy. He said the retreat with the theme, ‘Accelerating Impact’ was one of the ways the Bureau seeks to reposition itself to effectively play the pivotal role as the key driver of the government’s

News Editor Charles Ajunwa 09157401421 (sms only) Email charles.ajunwa@thisdaylive.com

economic reforms programme. In his presentation tagged ‘Towards a New BPE’, Okoh said the aim of the retreat included among others, to analyse key gaps and improvement opportunities in BPE’s internal operating model and structure, and its institutional and regulatory environment. He added that the retreat was designed to revalidate and reach a consensus on the strategic direction for the BPE to discuss and agree on its overall strategic priorities; and key imperatives for it to achieve the desired future state.

& ORS and the pendency of the application for injunction to restrain the holding of the national convention. “We act for the Appellant in the above captioned matter, Prince Uche Secondus, who was the National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), prior to the institution of Suit Number PHC/218 3/CS/202I, and wish to bring to your attention the following facts: “On 23 August 2021 one Mr. lbeawuchi E. Alex and four others jointly instituted Suit No PHC/2183 /CS/202I at the High Court of Rivers State, Port

Harcourt Judicial Division against Prince Uche Secondus and the PDP as Defendants. “On I0 September 2021, the High Court of Rivers State delivered its judgment in the suit whereby Prince Uche Secondus was, inter alia, restrained from performing the functions of the office of National Chairman of the PDP. “An appeal has been filed and entered against the judgment at the Court of Appeal, Port Harcourt Judicial Division. In addition, an Application on Notice has been filed in which Prince Uche Secondus is seeking,

The Ministry of Environment has said that strategies had been developed along the nine priority areas of the present administration of President Muhammadu Buhari. Speaking at the meeting of the 15th National Council of Environment in Abuja yesterday, the Minister of State for Environment, Chief Sharon

Respondent (Peoples Democratic Party) shall maintain the status quo ante as at 22 August 2021, when Appellant/Applicant was occupying the office of National Chairman of Peoples Democratic Party, pending the hearing and final determination of this appeal. “The application has since been served on you and other Respondents in the appeal. “Notwithstanding the service of the Application for injunction, it has come to the Notice of our client that the PDP and its officers continue to prepare to hold the National Convention on 30 and 3 I October 2021,” he stated.

DEEPENING KNOWLEDGE.. . L-R: Chancellor, Baze University, Abuja, Dr. Datti Ahmed; President, American University of Nigeria, Prof Margee Ensign; former Vice President and keynote speaker, Atiku Abubakar, Pro Chancellor and Chairman, BOT, Baze University, former vice president. Namadi Sambo; and Vice Chancellor of the university, Prof Tahir Mamman Tahir, at the 7th and 8th combined convocation lecture of the university…yesterday

FG Fortiﬁes Security at Nation’s Airports

Chinedu Eze

The federal government has fortified security at Nigeria’s airports to avert breaches and ensure unimpeded flight operations, just as it has installed new automated check-in systems at international airports. This was disclosed by the Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Captain Hamisu Yadudu, during an interactive session with journalists to usher in Airport Council International-Africa (ACI) Security Week. Yadudu said the fortification of security at airports in the country include the training of security personnel, coordination of joint security operatives including the agency’s Aviation Security (AVSEC), the police, the Nigeria Air Force and other security operatives to man each airport.

FAAN has also acquired and installed security equipment to add to the existing ones and also removed the obsolete ones to ensure an efficient security system and to ensure that every passenger who passed through any of the airports is captured both on domestic and international travel. “We just installed brand new scanning machines at

Ikeazor, said: “In fulfilling our mandate, the ministry has developed strategies along the nine priority areas outlined by the current administration.” She noted that the priority areas are: Build a thriving and sustainable economy; Enhance social inclusion and reduce poverty; Enlarge agricultural output for food security and export; Attain energy sufficiency in power and petroleum products

the Lagos airport last week. We installed about 15 at the Lagos airport alone and more will still be installed. We have installed the walk-ins security equipment. These include L3 scanning machines. I think five is the number of the walk-throughs and an additional 10 are the scanning machines. We don’t talk too much because we

don’t want to be distracted as an industry,” he said. He said that the reason for the security week was to alert and reinforce the security protocol and bring experts to deliberate issues on security and review what has been done, what is being done and how to improve through ingenuity, innovation and technology.

Goronyo Market Attack: CAN Asks Buhari to Restructure Security Architecture, Allow State Police Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has asked President Muhammadu Buhari to restructure the security architecture and forward a bill to the National Assembly to amend the constitution with a view to allowing the creation of state police.

Environment Ministry Strategises for 9 Priority Areas Michael Olugbode in Abuja

inter alia, the following orders,” the letter stated. According to Secondus’s lawyer, “An Order of injunction restraining the Peoples Democratic Party, the 6 Respondent herein, whether by itself, its officers, servants, agents and or representatives from holding or conducting its National Convention scheduled for 30th and 31st October 2021 or any other date, pending the hearing and final determination of this appeal.” Oyetibo said that alternative to above that “An Order that the parties to this appeal, particularly the Appellant /Applicant and the 6th

and expand transport and other infrastructural development to achieve agriculture and food security and ensure energy sufficiency in power and petroleum products by/through taking targeted actions. She said: “In fulfilling this mandate, the ministry is accelerating the implementation of the Ogoni Clean-up through Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP).

The association which made the call while commiserating with the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakae III, the people and the government of Sokoto State on the recent killing of innocent people and destruction of property by bandits at the Goronyo Central Market in the state, said they were shocked and pained at the horrible incident. In a statement signed by its General Secretary, Mr. Joseph Daramola Bade, CAN sued for a total overhauling of our security architecture with a view to injecting fresh energy and ideas into the system. “We once again reiterate our clarion call for a total overhauling of our security architecture with a view to injecting fresh energy and ideas into the system. The security architecture has been compromised. The bitter truth is we have never

had it this bad. The earlier the government realised this, the better for us. “We are also calling on President Muhammadu Buhari to ask the National Assembly to amend the Constitution with a view to allowing the State Police as it is being done in other climes. The existing system can no longer handle this situation effectively. Nigerians are no longer sleeping with two eyes closed because they are all living in fear. This is too bad,” he said. CAN said it was shocked, pained and disappointed with the reported attacks and the loss of many lives despite all the efforts being made by the government to stop these criminal elements. “CAN condemns in strong terms the operations of these criminals and tasked security agencies to rise up to this menace before it’s too late.

SATURDAY OCTOBER 23, 2021 • T H I S D AY

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 23, 2021

NEWS

Igbo Won’t Leave Nigeria Because of Buhari, Says Ezeife Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja Former governor of Anambra State, Dr. Chukwuemeka Ezeife, has said President Muhammadu Buhari was responsible for the political tension that had set up

demands by self-determination groups led by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) to agitate for the secession of the South-east geo-political zone from the rest of the country. Ezeife echoed the views

2022 Budget: FG Still within Allowed Deﬁcit Limit, Says FRC Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja The Fiscal Responsibility Commission (FRC) has declared that the federal government had not breached any law in the 2022 budget proposals by exceeding the three per cent threshold prescribed as deficit by the Fiscal Responsibility Act (FRA 2007). The proposed N16.4 trillion aggregate budget with a N6.26 trillion deficit is 3.9 per cent above the three per cent limit permitted by FRA, although it allows exceptions in emergency situations. Responding to questions at a press conference in Abuja yesterday, Chairman of the Fiscal Responsibility Commission (FRC), Mr. Victor Muruako, said in every law, there was always an exception. According to him, the devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic which almost crippled the global economy provided an exception (in line with the FRA) for the federal government to

overshoot the three per cent threshold. He said: “You are aware that the FRA 2007, while it clearly defined what the threshold should be, it also made room for exceptions. The exceptions in this case are quite obvious. This issue has been canvassed earlier and the Commission has come out to take a position that there is room for exception to the provisions of the Act. “And what more, you would also realise that government and indeed the parliament had taken a bold step to also marginally amend the Fiscal Responsibility Act through the Finance Act 2021 (Section 61). “You are also aware that the review of the Finance Act is now an annual ritual. As the budget is coming, the parliament also takes a look at the Finance Act. So, the government is still acting within the legal framework.

when he spoke to reporters on Thursday night at the public presentation of three books on the revival of Igbo culture by the founder of a non-governmental organisation, Save Our Heritage Initiative (SOHI), Dame May Ikokwu. The elder statesman also pointedly assured that the Igbo will remain in the Nigerian federation in spite of the charged political atmosphere and worsening insecurity in the zone. He made the remarks a few hours after the leader of IPOB, Nnamdi Kanu, was arraigned in Federal High Court, Abuja, to face trial for terrorism and

treasonable felony. Ezeife blamed some elements, who he said were pretending to be members of IPOB and were inflicting hardship on the people of the zone through the imposition of the stay-at-home order, which has also been condemned by Kanu. “We must be careful with ourselves, we Igbo people. If somebody is targeting to kill us, should we go and kill ourselves. Let us tell our people the truth: we are not leaving Nigeria tomorrow and those who know don’t even want to leave. “Are we leaving because of one man-Buhari? Before Buhari,

were we being pushed out of Nigeria? I said Buhari has been pushing us out of Nigeria. Should we obey him?” Ezeife declared. Speaking on the prospect of the emergence of an Igbo president in 2023, the one-time governor, who will attain 83 years next month, asserted that the Igbo deserve to produce the next president because of their commitment to the unity of the country through integration and residency in all parts of the country. He said an Igbo president would promote egalitarianism and ensure the exponential economic growth of the country. “It (2023) depends on us and

as far as I know, our God has accepted the idea of a Southeasterner as the president of Nigeria. “That is why he is bringing about a new Nigeria because a Nigeria of old which we have today is no longer going to stay. The country won’t break up and Anambra election will also come and it will be peaceful with the right person emerging the winner.” He said the country would change for the better when an Igboman becomes president, assuring that social inequalities like Almajiri and Talakawa will be things of the past.

Rivers: 20 Persons Burnt to Death in ‘Kpofire’ YOU’RE WELCOME… Explosion, 2 Die in Road Accident L-R: Chief Judge, Federal High Court, Hon. Justice John Tsoho and the Chairman/Chief Executive, National Drug Law Enforcement Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

About 20 persons have been burnt to death in a fire explosion that occurred at a forest in Rumuekpe community in Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State following an illegal artisanal oil refining (Kpofire). This is as two persons lost their lives in a fatal motor accident that happened yesterday morning, along East-West Road at Rumuji in Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State. THISDAY gathered that the incident occurred at about 11p.m. on Thursday. It was gathered that the fire was caused by one of the cooking pots at

the location of the oil refining activities whose pipe was interconnected to other pipes which eventually exploded all over the place. It was also gathered that the fire spread affected so many persons in the area with yet to be confirmed number of persons badly injured and are receiving treatment in different hospitals in the state. The commander of the local vigilante in Rumuekpe community, Frank Nwazimutor confirmed the incident. The vigilante leader disclosed that four victims who died in the incident were from his village, adding that other persons were outsiders who came to look for green pastures in the oil-rich community.

APC’s Criticism of Our Budget Laughable, Says Okowa Omon-Julius Onabu in Asaba Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa has said that the recent criticism of the state’s 2021 supplementary budget by the state chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) was based on a position of ignorance, stressing that the leadership of the APC clearly lacks basic knowledge of issues relating to budget and budgeting. Fielding questions, yesterday in Asaba, on allegations that his administration had approved a supplementary budget close to the presentation of the Delta State Budget for 2022 in order to siphon the money, Okowa said that such claims stemmed from either ignorance or deliberate lies prompted by evil motives on the part of APC leadership in the state. Okowa said, “It is because

they don’t understand the issue of budgeting. If they do, then they would know that this government has brought a lot of development in the state through various programmes for the people especially the youths and the unemployed. “I expect that the leadership of the APC (in Delta State) should know that there is a lot of development and progress made under my administration, but they don’t want to accept that fact. “I try not to criticise what they (APC) are doing at the federal level, I try not to do that. I’m concentrating on what I can do to impact the lives of the people of Delta State. “They know that their lives have been impacted upon positively, but they don’t want to admit it because they have an evil mind.”

Agency, NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), when the anti-narcotic agency’s boss led a team of his oﬃcials on a courtesy visit to the CJ in Abuja...yesterday

Except Buhari, Other Nigerian Leaders Interfered in NNPC Operations, Says Kyari Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja After working with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) for roughly three decades, the Group Managing Director of the national oil company, Mallam Mele Kyari, has disclosed that aside from President Muhammadu Buhari, other Nigerian political leaders in the past interfered in the corporation’s operations. Speaking at the 17th All Nigerian Editors’ Conference which was held

in Abuja, where he was Special Guest of Honour, Kyari described the development as historic, stressing that it was the first time the corporation was being allowed to operate professionally. Buhari was Nigeria’s Military Head of State between 1983 and 1985 and was Minister of Petroleum in the late 70s, a position he currently retains even as civilian president. The NNPC was established in 1977, about 44 years ago.

A statement by Spokesman of the corporation, Mr. Garba Muhammad, indicated that Kyari spoke at the event which held at the NAF Conference Centre organised by the Nigeria Guild of Editors (NGE) themed: ‘Media in Times of Crisis: Resolving Conflicts, Achieving Consensus’. On the NNPC’s refineries and the role they play in ensuring energy security for the country, the GMD said the NNPC management under his leadership was keen on

changing the narrative and getting the refineries back on stream. According to him, this will be made easier by taking advantage of the “free-hand” given to the management by the president to “do the right thing”. “This is the first time in history that NNPC and its subsidiaries are allowed to do things the way things should be done. Now, I can confirm to you that we have taken responsibility and we will fix the refineries.

Initiate Laws that Would Wipe Out Poverty, Cleric Advises National Assembly Hammed Shittu in Ilorin The National Ameer, Daaru-RRahmat (DARMAT) Islamic Society, Ustaz Misbahudeen Olawale, has decried the high level of poverty and unemployment in the country. Ustaz Olawale, therefore, has urged members of the National As-

sembly to initiate laws that would take the country out of poverty so as to have a virile nation. Olawale said this in a statement he made available to THISDAY in Ilorin on the sideline of this year’s Maulud Nabiyy celebration and provision of succour to over 10 widows. The event was held at the society’s

prayer ground in Osogbo, Osun State, recently. The cleric said there was no doubt the current economic situation in the country was biting harder. He said, “It is worrisome now in Nigeria that making ends meet is a serious problem among the people due to poor

economic policies on the part of those leading us. “This situation is getting worse that people have been resorting to begging before they can eat and this is uncalled for and not good for the nation that is taking democracy as its system of government.

LASG Reconstitutes Interim Caretaker Committee of Auto Spare Parts Dealers The Lagos State Government has reconstituted the interim Caretaker Committee for the Auto Spare Parts and Machinery Dealers Association (ASPMDA) in compliance with the judgments of the High Court of Lagos State in Suit No. LD/2588/ TCM/18 and Court of Appeal in CA/L/2513/2018. A statement issued yesterday by

the Lagos State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Moyosore Onigbanjo, said that the recomposition of the ASPMDA Interim Executive was in line with the two court judgements. He decried the build-up of tension and threat to security occasioned by the state of affairs in ASPMDA despite the Interim

Caretaker Committee instituted by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu in June 2020 to immediately conduct elections for new Executive Officers of ASPMDA for prevention of breach of law and order in the market. Onigbanjo noted that 15 months after constituting the Interim Caretaker Committee, chaired by Sir. Sunday Igbanuzue, failed to conduct

elections for new Executive Officers. Pointing out that the committee failed to conduct elections within 30days of their appointment as directed by Governor Sanwo-Olu, the Attorney General stated that intense agitation and discontent hasdtrailed the disobedient action of the committee awnd threatened the peace, law and order in ASPAMDA.

SATURDAY OCTOBER 23, 2021 • T H I S D AY

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 23, 2021

NEWS

CBN Increases Intervention to Healthcare Sector to N200bn Nume Ekeghe The Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Mr. Godwin Emefiele, has noted that in a bid to save foreign exchange spent on medical tourism and with demand it requires in intervention, the CBN has increased its healthcare intervention from N100 billion to N200 billion. Also, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo has urged more private sector participation in the healthcare sector to reverse medical tourism

and also human capital flight of medical practitioners. They disclosed these at the opening of the Duchess International Hospital in Lagos yesterday. Emefiele said: “Medical tourism puts a huge strain on our foreign reserves and more importantly, for every $1 billion allocated to medical treatment abroad, there is less than $1 billion that could be available to other critical sectors of our economy. “As part of this effort, the CBN led by a select private

sector stakeholders supported COVID-19 through CACOVID and in a bid to further drive the recovery of our economy, monetary policy recognised that while the interventions in our manufacturing sector is essential it is also essential, we continue to give support to the medical sector of our country. “When intervention on COVID commenced, CBN set aside N100 billion to support the healthcare sector, but upon rise in demand, we have disbursed N107.7 billion, supporting 114 healthcare projects

which include medical diagnostics, pharmaceuticals, dental services, eye clinics both private and public hospital just to mention a few.” He added: “We had taken up N100 to support but the monetary policy has said we should move it further up to N200 billion. We would continue to do whatever can be done to support healthcare.” He further called on banks to improve on loan facilities to healthcare and also members of our private sector community to invest also.

Soldiers, Bandits in Gun Duel as Kidnappers Abduct 3, Shoot 2 in Ekiti Victor Ogunje in Ado Ekiti There were sporadic shootings, yesterday in Ayebode, in Ikole Local Government area, as gunmen engaged soldiers in shootout after kidnapping three commuters. Those kidnapped were said to have been held at Ayedun Ekiti , a town located along the same axis, after the soldiers succeeded in botching the bandits’ kidnapping attempts at Ayebode. The incident, according to multiple sources occurred around 10:00am in the morning, leading

to desertion of the Ayedun-IlasaAyebode highway for several hours due to fear of attack. An eyewitness, who was also a victim, revealed to journalists in Ado Ekiti that the soldiers engaged the bandits at two different locations; Ayebode and Ilasa and pursued them into the bush to ensure that their operations didn’t succeed. He disclosed that three commuters coming from Ayedun -Ekiti to Ilasa were not that lucky as the gunmen picked them up after escaping from the soldiers.

Help Secure Abducted Travellers, Niger Senator Charges Security Agencies LaleyeDipoinMinna

The federal lawmaker representing Niger East Senatorial District in the National Assembly, Senator Sani Musa, has pleaded with the nation’s security agencies to help secure the release of abducted travellers in the hands of bandits. Senator Musa also “totally condemned the recent unruly and barbaric behaviour” of some irate youths in parts of Minna, an action that disturbed the peace of the state capital. Musa in a statement in Minna yesterday, said the quick intervention of the security agencies would save the abductees “a lot of trauma, make them quickly return to their normal

lives as well as save their families this unnecessary apprehension.” “I plead with all the security agencies in the state to collaborate and quickly mount a serious manhunt for those behind the abduction of these travellers, every hand must be put on the deck to achieve this objective without delay. “I also call and appeal to President Muhammadu Buhari not to relent in his efforts at bringing back security to our country and to further direct the military to intensify their efforts by deploying their men and equipment to Zungeru and adjoining forests in Niger State in order to flush out these criminal elements that have taken our people hostage and is making life unbearable for them,” he added.

RECOGNISED FOR EXCELLENCE…

FG: Nnamdi Kanu Liable for Murder of Akunyili’s

L-R: President, National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies, Mrs. Susan Akporiaye presenting a letter of recognition to the President’s spokesman, Mr. Femi Adesina on his nomination into the Media Hall of Fame of NANTA in Abuja...recently

Husband, Gulak, 175 Others Cont’d from Pg. 5

Tukur: I Didn’t Have Disagreement with Atitku Prior to New PDP Bennett Oghifo A former Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and Elder Statesman, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur yesterday opened up on the disagreements that led to the dismembering of the party into New PDP and PDP prior to the 2015 presidential election, saying he had no quarrel with former Vice President Abubarkar Atiku. Alhaji Tukur, who stated this while discussing the ‘Current State of Nigerian Politics’ on Arise News yesterday, also said he was in possession of PDP’s certiÀcate of registration, stating

that he was a founding member of the party along with Adamu Ciroma, Solomon Lar, and others. On zoning of the PDP’s presidency, the Elder Statesman said it should unite Nigeria under one Áag and bring development to the country. Discussing the challenges he encountered as Chairman of the PDP, he said, “In any organisation, particularly in politics, you can get some challenges, but after all, leadership means solving challenges. So, if it doesn’t resonate well and you Ànd that some may not agree with your view. If they do not agree with your view, you

should be able to step aside. If they bring a superior argument, then you look forward, then you join again and take the advice.” He said a political party ought to be a democratic institution where there should be election and not selection, and when asked if his disagreements with the former Vice President Atiku Abubarkar that led to the factionalisation of the party could have been managed diͿerently, he said “I did not disagree with anybody. What happened was that some people decided to form what they called New PDP. I told them that there is no New PDP, because PDP is one and I am the

chairman. They ran around and came back. The certiÀcate of PDP is with me, I’ve not submitted that certiÀcate because we, Adamu Ciroma, Solomon Lar –agreed to form the party.” Tukur said his position had always been for due process to be followed in the election process and that anything at variance with his view on the matter was unacceptable. On whether he was against zoning within the PDP in the 2023 election, Tukur said, “I want the best for Nigeria. If Nigeria is one, under one Áag and one nation and one people, zoning yes; zoning to development.”

Ortom Moves to Check PIA: IPMAN President Paddling of Teachers’ Salary Allays Marketers’ Fears George OkohinMakurdi Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom has taken decisive steps to end padding of salaries of primary school teachers by the State Universal Basic Education(SUBEB). Governor Ortom who met with local government chairmen, chairman and board members of SUBEB among others yesterday at the New Banquet Hall of Benue Peoples House, Makurdi, gave the local government council chairmen one month to carry out intensive physical verification to unmask the cartel behind padding of teacher’s salaries. He expressed worry while briefing journalists that despite retirement of primary school teachers, deaths

among others, the wage bill does not reduce but rather increases, stressing that the ugly trend means “the dead resurrects to receive salaries and goes back to the grave.” The governor explained that if proper checks are carried out with the involvement of council chairmen, Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Parents Teachers Association (PTA) among others, leakages and other unwholesome activities would be stopped to give room for more recruitment. Ortom maintained that since the decision to engage 2,000 teachers in the primary school was sacrosanct, his government would do everything possible to block financial leakages in the sector to guarantee expected goals.

National President of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association (IPMAN), Mr. Sanusi Fari, has allayed fears of his teeming members over the scrapping of the Petroleum Equalisation Fund by the federal government. Investigation revealed that the federal government, on Wednesday, o΀cially scrapped the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR), Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency (PPPRA) and the Petroleum Equalisation Fund (PEF). The PEF is the special intervention Fund put in place by the federal government with the mandate to ensure price uniformity of petroleum products across the country, through the reimburse-

ment of marketers for losses they incur in trucking products from depots to their Àlling stations anywhere in Nigeria. The action of the federal government was premised on the passage and implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) signed into law by President Muhammadu Buhari after both chambers of the National Assembly had passed, clause by clause the Petroleum Industry Bill. Two new agencies, the Upstream Regulatory Commission and Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NPRA) have since been saddled statutorily to perform the duties of the three defunct agencies.

Buhari: FG May Pardon Ken Saro-Wiwa, 8 Others The killing of Ogoni activist and renowned playwright, Ken Saro-Wiwa and eight others (Ogoni 9) in November, 1995 during the Abacha administration reechoed yesterday as President Buhari disclosed that the federal government might consider granting pardon to the Ogoni 9 as part of moves to genuinely integrate the Ogoni people. This is just as President Buhari urged Ogoni leaders to sensitise their people on why they must value protection of pipelines and national assets in their area. The President spoke while playing host to Ogoni leaders, led by Gbenemene Tai and President of the Supreme Council of Ogoni Traditional Rulers, His Majesty King Godwin N.K. Giniwa at the State House, Abuja. President Buhari said: “We are committed to ensuring clemency and national integration as part of this Administration’s bid to lay the foundation for genuine reconciliation and bring closure to the issues of Ogoni Land. “The unfortunate incidents of the early 1990s leading to the loss of lives of distinguished sons of Ogoni Land and the collateral judicial processes are indelible in our memories. “Despite the grievous circumstances, the federal government will consider the request for the grant of pardon to finally close the Ogoni saga.” Recall that Ken Saro-Wiwa and eight others were accused of killing four fellow Ogonis, leading to their arrest and trial by a military tribunal which found them guilty and accordingly sentenced them to death by hanging. Ken Saro-Wiwa along with eight others namely Saturday Dobee,

Nordu Eawo, Daniel Gbooko, Paul Levera, Felix Nuate, Baribor Bera, Barinem Kiobel, and John Kpuine, were executed by hanging on November 10, 1995 and buried in Port Harcourt Cemetery in Rivers State capital. He said the government would bring to a close all pending issues on sons of Ogoni Land. “Your Royal Highnesses, distinguished representatives of the people of Ogoni Land, I note the need to ensure completion of segment of the East-West road traversing Ogoni Land, and steps will be taken to ensure delivery under the Infrastructure Development Fund as earlier conceived. We intend to complete this vital artery of Nigeria.” The President noted that the Nigerian Petroleum Development Company Ltd (NPDC), a subsidiary of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), had been granted license to operate OML11, which will stimulate economic activities and integration in the zone. “Accordingly, NNPC is hereby directed to engage all host communities, particularly Ogoni people to ensure inclusive processing of oil and gas, anchored on optimum involvement of host communities. NPDC will lay a broad-based programme for the emergence of a new Ogoni Land for the beneÀt of the Ogoni people and Nigeria as a whole,” Buhari added. Earlier in his remarks, King Godwin N.K. Giniwa, thanked President Buhari for various interventions in the area, particularly on clean-up of the environment. The paramount ruler noted that the people believe in the unity of Nigeria and the future of every group could only be guaranteed in one nation.

SATURDAY OCTOBER 23, 2021 • T H I S D AY

OCTOBER 23, 2021 • THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

COMMENTARY

COLIN POWELL: LEADERSHIP LESSONS FOR NIGERIA Chuka Odom pays tribute to Powell, statesman and former United States Secretary of State

he death last week of America’s revered soldier, politician and elder statesman, Colin Powell has brought into focus the failure of leadership in Nigeria. Each time a world icon passes on, our leaders will be the ﬁrst to “mourn” and express their sadness over the death without examining what the deceased meant to their country and what irony their crocodile tears is, since they do not subscribe to the values that made the deceased an icon. I know Nigeria will be a lot better today if we had a few men and women of Colin Powell’s patriotic zeal, competence and moral compass. I have always admired this charismatic leader from his days as Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff (1989-1993) and keenly followed his illustrious career path. I had the rare privilege of meeting the man in person in 2009 in Abuja when he came as Tell Magazine’s Special Guest during the celebration of 10 years of democracy in Nigeria. On that day at the Transcorp Hilton, I asked him what he thought of the future of democracy in Nigeria after several years of military dictatorship. He looked at me solemnly and said “The future of your country depends on the men and women you entrust it. Every system is as good or as bad as the people who operate it. I will advise you to strengthen your electoral and judicial processes and make them independent, as much as possible of political interference. That way, over time you will evolve a political culture that holds all accountable”. Twelve years after hearing these immortal words of a world acclaimed leader, it is easy for me to see why we have ended up in this dangerous precipice now. Since, we have been unable to entrust our democracy to patriotic, competent and morally sound individuals, we have reaped the fruits of our bad choices. How did we end up with this large number of people of questionable competence, character and patriotism in our public space? Simple! We have not made our electoral process transparent and independent, capable of throwing up the best amongst us. How come we have not been able to stem the insidious culture of corruption and prebendalism? Simple! It is because, we have been unable to protect the judicial process from political influence and thus ended up with two sets of rules, one for those momentarily in power and the other for the rest of the people. We will rather distract ourselves from these fatal flaws by searching for new forms of governance that we believe will be a silver bullet to all our problems. Yet we have not dealt with the issue of the capacity to run this new system. A poisoned pipe can never deliver clean water. Our public space is so toxic and citizen unfriendly. Most political office holders are arrogant, conceited and morally indifferent. Their goal in office is largely acquisition of goods, and power to sustain what have been acquired. Most of these individuals have no other source of income other than the public till, yet they display affluence not commensurate with their legitimate pay. And the law seldom catches up with them.

I ASKED HIM WHAT HE THOUGHT OF THE FUTURE OF DEMOCRACY IN NIGERIA AFTER SEVERAL YEARS OF MILITARY DICTATORSHIP. HE LOOKED AT ME SOLEMNLY AND SAID ‘THE FUTURE OF YOUR COUNTRY DEPENDS ON THE MEN AND WOMEN YOU ENTRUST IT. EVERY SYSTEM IS AS GOOD OR AS BAD AS THE PEOPLE WHO OPERATE IT’

Colin Powell represents the best of America and humanity. His political career was not without blemish. His assertion that Saddam Hussein possessed weapons of mass destruction which eventually led to the disastrous Iraqi war was a huge blunder. Unlike Nigerian politicians, he had the courage to admit his error instead of engaging in unnecessary revisionism. One wonders why no one has ever taken responsibility for the myriads of policy failures in Nigeria. This culture of responsiblefree public space has given rise to impunity and revisionism. His world-view as encapsulated in his belief that “Leadership is solving problems” is a true sign post to countries, organizations and individuals who truly seek to make a difference in their families, communities and country. He once declared that when people stop bringing their problems to you, you have ceased being their leader. Unfortunately, there is no easy way out of the mess we have collectively created in the name of leadership in Nigeria. Some years ago, I was driving with my two young children in Abuja. I stopped at a traffic light but my kids then about six years old noticed cars honking and driving past and said “Dad, why did we stop when others are driving on”? I said because the traffic light has turned red. And one said “Then why won’t the others stop”? I had no answer to that one. It is so hard to train people to be law-abiding in a lawless environment. No system can function to the benefit of all if it is not anchored on a rule-based environment. The leadership question in Nigeria is at the core of our problems. In 1984, General Mohammed Buhari introduced the War Against Indiscipline (WAI). It failed because discipline ought to be inculcated in people by their environment and not by force. Leaders are groomed from birth to seek higher ideals and to pursue dreams bigger than themselves. Our political leaders today are products of a corrupt and broken system seeking self-survival above every other ideal. Such individuals do not have the capacity to be honest, or be prudent in managing public resources. They lack empathy, have no core values or convictions. How on earth can a system with a majority of such individuals in charge, deliver value? They can only give what they have and what they have is there for all of us to see – hunger, banditry, kidnapping, bloodshed, unemployment, weak institutions and decrepit infrastructure. What will Colin Powell say of Nigeria today? Probably the same thing he said to me 12 years ago. If we truly want to make a fresh start (and it is never too late) we may have to rethink those immortal words of his, spoken here on our soil, in our capital city – Abuja. May the memory of Colin Powell be a blessing to all true lovers of a just, equitable and progressive society in Nigeria. Chief Odom, a legal practitioner, is a former Minister of State (F.C.T)

2023 AND THE RACE FOR THE PRESIDENCY Timipreye Sylva, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, has what it takes to run, argues Dan Amor

“That which God writes on your forehead, thou wilt come to it”- Koran.

n 2012, during the reign of Dr. Goodluck Jonathan as President of Nigeria, Chief Timipreye Marlin Sylva, the debonair former Governor of Bayelsa State, was treated like a political outcast, despite his towering achievements as governor. Because of a feud or disagreement between him and his brother, the former president, all sorts of mud was hurled at the consummate strategist. He was not allowed to complete his second term as the federal government even used its attack dog then, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to go after him with spurious allegations of impropriety. Most of his property were seized and he was left like a ﬁsh on a dry sandy beach panting. Despite receiving the wrong end of the stick, Sylva maintained his cool without grudges. As a deft and calculating leader, Sylva’s life is a cautionary text. Before the fogs of hypocrisy, the currents that dash pride upon the rocks of hubris, he would only smile when he observed power’s effects on character, and character’s on power. Destiny can only be delayed and not denied. The story has been confirmed that in top All Progressives Congress (APC) circles and among the king makers in the party, Sylva is touted as a possible successor to President Muhammadu Buhari if power must move to the South come 2023. It is this that has made fifth columnists and alliterative headline casters to cook all sorts of stories to dent his image. But, can they kill his destiny? No. The story of the fall and rise of Sylva in the

intricate political power calculus of Nigeria is like the political thriller of the century, illuminating the mystery of an extraordinary politician who continues to fascinate Nigerians. Even as notable and discerning politicians across the country have started realizing that the game has changed, not a handful know that the political pendulum is swinging towards Sylva. But when the refrain is now relayed in anecdotal remarks, those who can read between the lines should now understand that the game is up. Therefore, the fall and rise of Timipreye Sylva is about the most elegant and happiest story in Nigerian political history. Young, experienced, energetic, brilliant and caring, Sylva is a modern day phenomenon whose corpus requires a large canvas. Even before he became Governor on May 27, 2008, Sylva, a consummate technocrat and politician, learned the rope in the management of the Petroleum and Gas industry when he worked as Senior Special Assistant to Chief Edmund Daukoru who was then Minister of State for Energy and Petroleum Resources between July 2005 and May 2007. Since the appointment of Sylva as Minister of State for Petroleum in 2019, the unnerving failure in the sector has ceased. The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), which hitherto could not service its metropoles, has suddenly woken up to its responsibility. A deliberate approach towards entrenching transparency, integrity and probity has been introduced in the management of the ministry. This new approach was integrated through the deployment of new templates which

encourage goal-setting for meeting and assessing key performance indicators at the end of targets. Implemented across all levels, this approach has yielded positive results and made meetings more proactive and reports more result-oriented. It is important to note that the various departments and agencies under the ministry have come together to develop an industry-wide IT platform to provide online, real-time information on product supply and distribution. This strategic management policy came handy in ameliorating the fuel scarcity threat which would have resulted from the #ENDSARS protests which rocked the country in October last year. It is important to emphasize here that the inherent shortfall in gasoline supply had been mismanaged for decades. Barefaced corruption in the industry had aggravated poor management to an untold magnitude. At a time, the importation of petroleum products was the family business of a head of state. The havoc done to the economy by this singular act is simply unprecedented and unacceptable. But the publication of the NNPC’s audit reports since 2019 when Sylva came on board, the monthly publication of its expenses and those of its subsidiaries and its success story and that of the Nigeria Liquified Natural Gas (NLNG) with attendant celebration of the Oil & Gas industry by the global Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) under Sylva cannot be overemphasized. For space constraint, we can’t enumerate here the numerous achievements the ministry has recorded so far under his watch. Here is a man who was almost rendered jobless due to political miscalculation. Then in

2013, Sylva became one of the prime movers and rallying points in the formation of the APC. He virtually donated his hotel in Abuja free of charge to the party for almost all-party activities. Politically, Timipreye Sylva is larger than his frame. Imbued with great leadership qualities, the Bayelsa-born politician is a natural leader who does not suffer fools gladly. As the best material in the South South region to assume the toga of the Nigerian presidency, he has given a good account of himself as he has contributed substantially to the reform currently going on in the oil and gas sector. The great work he has done in the sector is there for all to see manifesting in the passage of the Petroleum Industry Act 2021. A leader with composite charisma, excellent aura, friendly disposition, agile and intellectually above average, who graduated top of his class in the Department of English at the University of Port Harcourt, Sylva is a detribalised Nigerian who has friends in all the states of the country. He will be 59 on July 7, 2023 when he would be leading the largest black country in the world, God willing. Timipreye Sylva is a happy warrior and an existential hero, a talisman of possibility, of what would be as we march into the future. It can be said with a fair amount of certainty that the essence of his political attractiveness is his extraordinary political intelligence and sagacity. It can also be said that he has a mind of his own. It is not literary, metaphysical and moral. Sylva is articulate and often witty, but, as a grammarian, he does not seek verbal polish. Yet, no one can doubt the seriousness of his concern for Nigeria and Nigerians. Amor, literary critic and journalist, wrote from Abuja

OCTOBER 23, 2021 • THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

INSIGHT

Any lessons learnt?

#EndSARS: Beyond the Contentious Lekki Massacre

igerians are marking one-year remembrance of #EndSARS -- a social movement against police brutality. It is the right thing to do---peacefully, in the spirit of patriotism and justice. When people came out last year to call for an end to police brutality, they didn’t do so for fun. It was a call borne out of pains and bruises from constant harassment, detention, and sometimes death in the hands of security agents mandated to protect them. There were a lot of media reports and documents validating such incidents before the eventual protests which shook the country. The eventual disbandment of the notorious police unit SARS and the directive by the federal government to states to form panels of enquiries to investigate citizens’ petitions of unprofessionalism and brutality, in line with demands of the protesters, gave hopes that things could turn out differently. It is rather sad we are stuck in this past one year after, trying to prove the extent of human and physical losses and absence of none, instead of having real conversations on implementing the changes in the Nigerian police, and preventing another outrage. What should form the line of discussion is what we are to do and are doing to reform the police. Before the one year memorial, all but Lagos and Kwara State panels on #EndSARS sat satisfactorily in the country. Even at that, the findings of the committees have largely remained obscure and no visible actions have taken place to implement the reports in line with the struggle. Essentially, the light earlier thought shone on the bad police system has dimmed painfully, the nation losing a fine moment to fix national cancer. The police reform may well be President Buhari’s biggest honour or a blot in years to come. I say that as one of his admirers. The everyday abuse and indignity in the hands of gun-toting agents are indescribably deeper than being reported. Young Nigerian females still get harassed; the boys are in fear of chasing their dreams, and the many weaknesses of the police form remain glaring. It is not normal to mistake their genuine concerns for quality space as noise making. It would beabsolutely lovely to have him rehabilitate the police force as part of his efforts on national security. We may have people who do believe in #LekkiMassacre and some who strongly hold that there was nothing close to it. But we cannot have a Nigerian who does not have a feeling that the nation deserves a better police force. We do not have many who have not had the taste of human rights abuse. Yet, abuse is not a feature of effective policing! We have all either been extorted, harassed, or denied protection at one point or another; we have had moments to hope we didn’t grow up to fear those who should protect and defend us from injustice and extortion. The truths are that we have a police and justice system badly in need of an upgrade. Much more than proving there was a massacre or not, we need to open conversations on plans and timelines to get the identified weaknesses fixed. This is

the line to thread for urgent and genuine overhauling of the sector. I call on the stakeholders to spotlight the issues, as I plead with the media to rev up their support for the cause. The past is what may be forgotten. Police brutality is the lot of Nigerian youths, not their past, it cannot be forgotten. When the lice on one’s head remain uncured, the hands do not stay clean of stains. However, the memorial is an opportunity to do it better. Carnage and arson like the one which eventually started in Lagos and snowballed to other states stand condemned and unacceptable. We should only continue as young people pressing the demand for change with every sense of modesty and responsibility through the years. Then, I have a word for all. Fighting for social causes is not the same as fighting the government. It is a mismatch. I hold that the movement has been tarred with such an ugly brush to the elites and decision-makers. It is such a phenomenon that underscores the language of policy and engagement in the civil and leadership space. #EndSARS is not a youth uprising against the old people. It’s not a mutiny against the authorities. It is simply a people demonstration, a call to responsibility for the safety and wellness of all. This is such a mindset I wish all -- the social, religious, political leaders and Nigerian protesters -- have on this crusade for an end to the scourge of suppression of the weak and the vulnerable. I appeal to the states and federal government to seize the memorial as an opportunity to reflect and continue the reforms (#5 of 5 Demands) in our police and justice sector in the interest of peace and progress of our dear nation. Ibraheem Abdullateef, youth leader, is the founder of Torchbearers Impact Network

Re: Edo State Health Insurance Scheme

o us, Edo Health Insurance Scheme is a win-win for all; it’s either Edo APC didn’t read it, can’t read or can’t comprehend what they read. Opposition politics requires intelligence, tact and not lies and deception Healthcare is a critical service that undergirds the survival of any society, contributing significantly to the living standards of the people. An efficient healthcare system assures that people get health services on time, at a reasonable cost and with the right support system that can guarantee the sustenance of life and living. However, due to the high cost of accessing quality healthcare, relative low purchasing power and high level of out-of-pocket payment for medical services by the generality of the citizenry, it has been a herculean task attempting to deliver healthcare services to the general population. Across the developing world, access to affordable healthcare remains a huge challenge, even as different countries have devised different means to address the lingering challenges. With a growing population and insufficient medical facilities, Nigeria still grapples with providing adequate healthcare to its citizens. Efforts to ensure an efficient system led to the setting up of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). While the scheme is deploying a number of tactics to get Nigerians to subscribe, data from the national scheme says less than 5 percent of Nigerians are covered by the NHIS. This reality and the commitment to engender a new system for health service delivery inspired the Edo State Government led by Governor Godwin Obaseki to enact the Edo State Health Insurance Law in 2019. The overarching mission was to provide Edo people the opportunity to make monthly contributions to enjoy a decent health insurance package. With this, market women, students, artisans, traders, civil servants, among others, are able to access medical services without necessarily having to make out-of-pocket payments. The intervention areas for the health insurance T H E SAT U R DAY N E W S PA P E R include health promotion, preventive health services, EDITOR YEMI ADEBOWALE outpatient services, internal medicine, pediatric DEPUTY EDITOR AHAMEFULA OGBU care, maternal and neonatal services, management, MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO treatment of HIV/AIDS and other STIs, eye care, DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI dental care, laboratory and radiological investigations, EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN general surgical procedure, emergency care, mental MANAGING EDITOR BOLAJI ADEBIYI health management. For secondary care, what is THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE obtainable are pediatrics, internal medicine, obstetrics and gynecology, physiotherapy, surgery, dental care and ENT. In the past and as has been the experience of many, T H I S DAY N E W S PA P E R S L I M I T E D one would need to make deposits and a substantial EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA payment before they can access medical care in GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU, IJEOMA NWOGWUGWU, EMMANUEL EFENI hospitals. Often times, the inability to make a reasonDIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE able deposit could lead to the death of a patient. DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI But with the health insurance scheme, more people SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH would now have access to medical services, with the ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI hospitals having enough capital base that guarantees CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI their continued operations and provision of essential DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO services to patients. TO SEND EMAIL: ﬁrst name.surname@thisdaylive.com Chris Osa Nehikhare, SPS PDP Edo State

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 23, 2021

NEWS Ondo Poly Workers Suspend Indefinite Strike Fidelis David in Akure Workers of the Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo, Ondo State, have suspended the indeÀnite strike they embarked upon over an unpaid salary arrears running to 11 months by the management of the institution. The industrial action was suspended after the management of the school signed an

agreement with the leaders of the Senior StaͿ Association Of Nigerian Polytechnics (SSANIP) and the Non-academic StaͿ Union (NASU). In a communique signed by the parties in the industrial dispute, it was agreed that the Unions should exercise more patience on the issue of payment of arrears of salaries since the state government is already working on them.

It is Evil to Owe Pensioners, Says Ozigbo David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka

ACROSS CULTURE… LR: Director Cultural Counselor, Embassy Of PRC in Nigeria, Mr Li Xuda; Indian Cultural Attache, Mr. Yogesh; MD Ruskin Aluminuj Nigeria Limited, Dr. Oleg Svistunov; Embassy of The Republic Of Cuba, Mr Clara .M. Pulido- Escandell; Director General, NCAC, Otunba Olusegun Runsewe; Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Bulgaria in Abuja, Mr. Yanko V. Yordanov; Embassy of The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela with concurrent in Liberia, Sierra Leone, Chad and ECOWAS, Mr. Whan of The Chinese Embassy, at INAC Expo in Abuja...recently

Igboho Not a Terrorist, Counsel Replies AGF Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan

Lead counsel to Yoruba Nation activist, Chief Sunday Adeyemo (aka Sunday Igboho), Chief Yomi Aliyu, (SAN), yesterday said his client was a campaigner for self-determination and not terrorist as claimed by Minister of Justice, Mr. Abubakar Malami. Aliyu in a statement he personally signed, said the Attorney General fruitlessly tried to paint Igboho and those patronising his car trade as terrorists or financiers of terrorists, stating that transferring money to bureau de change to buy dollars is what

is done by every businessman of his calibre. According to him, the claim by Malami that Igboho transferred N12.7m to Abbal Bako Sons owned by Abdullahi Umar does not add up, insisting that it is the opposite that he was being sponsored in his terrorism acts.. He maintained that there was no evidence of receipt of money from Abbal Bako Sons or Abdullahi Umar given the claim by the AGF, noting that what he said were mere conjecture and not hard fact as according to him Igboho paid Umar and not vice versa.

The statement read in part, “The picture the Learned AGF wanted to paint is that our Client is being financed by Abdullah Umar allegedly involved in terrorists financing. Who is now financing who. “Again, Chief Adeyemo is a car dealer trading in the name of Adesun International Concept Ltd. Does it mean that anybody buying car from him or selling car to him is a terrorist? “Chief Sunday Adeyemo a.k.a Igboho Oosa was not into Oodua Nation until last year. So finding over N273m turnover between October 2013 and September 2020 shows that he was not a poor

man. His house invaded by DSS on 1st July 2020 is worth over N2billion! “ I challenge the Hon AGF to mention the lawmaker that sent money to Chief Sunday Adeyemo for terrorist act whether he would not be damnified in exemplary damages for defamation. “Up till date our client has not been prosecuted or found liable for any criminal act or terrorism. There is also a valid and subsisting court judgement that agitation for self-determination is not an act of terrorism but fundamental human right of any citizen.

Obiano Signs Anambra Anti-Grazing Bill into Law David-Chyddy Eleke inAwka

Anambra State Governor, Chief Willie Obiano, has signed into law the bill to prohibit and abolish open and nomadic cattle and other livestock grazing and rearing in the state. The governor yesterday signed the bill into law in a brief ceremony, which was performed at the Governor’s Lodge, Amawbia. While signing the bill into law, Obiano appreciated the

state House of Assembly for expeditiously passing the bill, saying that the establishment of the law will hopefully enable entrenchment of peace. Obiano said his administration had previously been doing its best to manage the crisis arising from the menace of cattle herders for a very long time, but added that the measures were only short term measures because there was no law. He said: “Now that we have

Osinbajo, Sanwo-Olu, OPSN, Others Mourn NECA’S Director General Dike Onwuamaeze The Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu and leaders of the Organised Private Sector of Nigeria (OPSN) were among those who sent in their condolence messages during the commendation service of the late Director General of the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA), Dr. Timothy Osuolale Olawale. Olawale died on active national service while attending a meeting in Abuja on October 1, 2021. The commendation service was held at the NECA House, Ikeja, Lagos State. Osinbajo, in a condolence

message that was read during the commendation service on Thursday asked God to strengthen those Olawale left behind. He quoted from the Bible that “a man’s gift maketh room for him, and bringeth him before great men,” and said that Olawale’s skill and technical abilities “brought him before the leaders of our great country as he championed causes such as job creation, which is a major plank for poverty reduction in Nigeria.” Sanwo-Olu, who was represented at the commendation service by the Director General of Lagos State Pension Commission, Mr. Babalola Obilana, said that he was saddened by the death of Olawale.

a law banning open grazing, the law enforcement agents have been directed to implement it.” The bill also called for the establishment of cattle and other livestock ranches. The brief ceremony was witnessed by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Uju Nworgu, Secretary to the State Government, Professor Solo Chukwulobelu, Commissioner for Police, Mr. Echeng Echeng, Commissioner for Agriculture, Chief Nnamdi

Onukwuba. Others who were present are: Chairman of South East Council of Traditional Rulers, Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe, Traditional Ruler of Okpuno, Igwe Sunday Okafor, Traditional Ruler of Mbaukwu, Igwe Peter Anugwu, Member representing Awka North at the State House of Assembly, House Committee Chairman on Agriculture, Chief John Nwokoye, members of the Hausa community in the state, among others.

The governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the forthcoming gubernatorial election in Anambra State, Mr. Valentine Ozigbo, has condemned what he called “mindless non-payment of gratuities to civil servants that retired in Anambra State since 2017.” In a statement made available yesterday, Ozigbo said it was unbelievable that after the efforts by the Peter Obi administration to clear over N35 billion arrears

of pension and gratuities owed retirees in Anambra State since 1991, that the present government in Anambra State has allowed the debt to start accumulating to over N5 billion again by its refusal to pay retirees their pension since 2017. He described the action as heartless and wicked, wondering how those responsible feel whenever they read the stories of retirees dying due to lack of basic needs they often use the gratuities to solve through the returns they get after investing it wisely.

Siende Signature to Hold Fragrance Craft Workshop, Partners International Fragrance Brands SundayEhigiator In commemoration of its first year anniversary, Seinde Signature, a fragrance experience and retail brand based in Nigeria, has announced partnerships with 17 international fragrance brands and influencers. The company also revealed that it would be holding a ‘Craft Workshop’ aimed at teaching interested Nigerians about perfume making. The Founder, Olufemi Olusola, disclosed this during a press confer-

ence held in Lagos, to intimate the public on the lineup of activities for the company’s first year anniversary. According to Olusola, the workshop would be held in Abuja on November 1, 2021, alongside other activities earmarked to commemorate the one year anniversary of the company, beginning from October 30 to November 2, 2021. The craft workshop is in collaboration with Lael Perfumery Academy. It will involve practical sessions about perfumery and the act of creating perfumes.

First Solar Commercial Hub Births in Owerri As part of measures to give Owerri, the Imo State capital a facelift, the first multi-billion naira solar commercial hub has birthed in the state with the groundbreaking ceremony of the DENKA Business City project at New Owerri. The project was started by the Board and Management of Solarcity Housing and Com-

mercial Estate Ltd. (SOLARCITY H.A.C.E.), a real estate development company based in Abuja in partnership with Fidelity Bank Plc as project funders. The project is a multi-use, multi-faceted project located at the heart of New Owerri which upon completion will become the commercial hub and focal point for business activities in Imo State.

Ohuabunwa: NNG to Seek Group Tasks Govt on Budgetary Presidency on PDP Platform Allocation for Agric Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia

The New Nigeria Group (NNG) has said that it would actualise its mission of providing good leadership for the country on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the former ruling party. The Convener of the Group, Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa, dropped the hint in a chat with journalists at Gregory University Uturu, Abia State during the inauguration of the College of Pharmacy Building named after him by the privately owned institution. NNG has been engaged in mobilising “like minded citizens”

of Nigeria to join the movement to actualise its mission of installing enlightened, visionary and committed leadership in Nigeria that will motivate the country to optimise its human and material resources.” “We’re going to run on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP),” he said, adding that the formal announcement would be made in due course. Ohuabunwa, who is the President of Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), explained that the choice of PDP as a veritable platform to enthrone good leadership for Nigeria was due to the disposition and policy thrust of the main opposition party.

Mary Nnah

Following the numerous outrages by the Nigerian youths to draw government attention to their various plights, one of which is the EndSARS protests which its one year anniversary was marked last Wednesday, the National Council of the Boys’ Brigade of Nigeria has called on government to create budgetary allocation for the subsidy in agriculture that would be extended to the youths. Speaking during a press brieÀng to announce the N100 million Brigade House Fundraising ceremony billed to hold tomorrow, October 24 in Ipaja, Lagos, National President,

Sir Sunny Nwosu, said that by doing so, it would help the GDP of Nigeria to grow.

SATURDAY OCTOBER 23, 2021 • T H I S D AY

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 23, 2021

Ferdinand Ekechukwu 08035011394 Email: ferdi_adthisday@yahoo.com

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A’rese Emokpae, Chinasa Anukam, Toni Tones, Adebukola Oladipupo, and Rachel Anthony

Ted AbuduVentures intoWeb Series with MMM Ferdinand Ekechukwu

new web series, which goes by the title acronym, MMM (Money. Men. Marriage) has been unveiled by Àlmmaker, Ted Abudu, and it is scheduled for this October, precisely 29th. The series has Ted Abudu playing multiple roles as director, producer and writer. The new YouTube series, which will be the Àrst production from Abudu’s newly launched Laced Up Productions, stars Toni Tones, A’rese, Rachel Anthony

Ikekhuame, Adebukola Oladipupo, Chinasa Anukam, Ikechukwu, Karibi Fubara, Sika Osei, Ibrahim Suleiman, Christopher Iheuwa among others. According to the Àlmmaker, in a post via her Instagram page, ‘MMM’ follows the life of Àve young women through the eyes of a newcomer to the chaos and unpredictability of Lagos. The series will explore the characters’ journey through love, life, friendship and Ànances. ConÀrming the series in an Instagram post, Abudu wrote: “So so so so sooooo excited to announce the release of MMM the series under my new production company Laced Up Productions!!!

Eeek! It’s been a long time coming but I’ve learnt better late than never. God willing, the Àrst of many more series to come!! Watch them Àgure out love, life, friendships and Ànances in this fun and fabulous series titled Money.Men. Marriage aka MMM.” Giving snippets on the series, Ted Abudu, who is the daughter of media mogul Mo Abudu, reveals the roles and characters of the ladies of MMM. “« meet the ladies of Money. Men. Marriage. Suzi is played by the indomitable Toni Tones. Suzi’s had a runsy past but is now reformed and on her way to being married. “Marion is played by the multi-

talented A’rese. Marion is the curious but quiet aspiring writer. She has just moved to Lagos to pursue her dreams. Kimi is played by the gorgeous Rachel Anthony Ikekhuame. Kimi is a Àery force of nature and full on man eater. Lola is played by talented Adebukola Oladipupo. Lola is emotional and love obsessed and will stop at nothing to make her fairytale come true. Esther is played by the gorgeous and hilarious Chinasa Anukam. She is a two timing snake in the grass and isn’t afraid to admit it. Find out more about these gorgeous, smart and hilarious young women when our series drops on Oct 29th!!”

Historic ‘Amina’ Premieres on Netflix Ferdinand Ekechukwu

Historic Nigerian movie “Amina” has been acquired by NetÁix and will premiere on the streaming platform on November 4, 2021. The epic Àlm is based on the 1 th-century Zazzau Empire warrior Queen Amina. The streaming giant also premiered a trailer for the feature Àlm directed by Izu Ojukwu. The trailer, hints on the plot which takes on Queen Amina’s personal journey through love, failures and triumphs. “Amina” stars Lucy Ameh, Clarion Chukwura, Ali Nuhu, Magaji Mijinyawa, and others. Sponsored by Nigeria’s Bank of Industry (BOI) and shot in 2015, the Àlm was initially scheduled for release in 2017 but was delayed before Ànally being picked up by NetÁix. While no reason was given for the delay, the Àlm’s trailer had sparked positive reaction online. Izu Ojukwu took to Instagram to announce the Àlm. According to him, the long-awaited movie follows “the story of the legendary Queen Amina of Zazzau whose daring courage and conviction set loose a series of upheavals that altered the fate of her people in ways that none could have thought possible was delightful and illuminating to Àlm. It remains a peculiarly transformative experience for both our formidable cast and crew, a pleasurable

Izu Ojukwu

experience you can share in when the Àlm premieres on NetÁix on the 4th of November.” O΀cial synopsis of the movie goes thus: “Amina lived in the age of man in a man’s world. In an ancient world of

brutal conÁicts, ferocious animal passions, suppressive timeless customs, and reckless, heroic exploits, she must resolutely carve out a part for her life in the face of scandalized tradition and antagonistic male dominance. To grasp her destiny,

she must prove herself not just as able, but inÀnitely more capable than any man alive. Fathered by the legendary warrior, expansionist and empire builder Barkwa Turunku, Aminatu, alluring princess and Àrst daughter to the renowned Barkwa nurses a burning ambition never before imagined. “To sit as queen over a Zazzau empire that stretches from Kano to River Niger, from Idah to Jukunland. From warrior-princess to supreme military commander and from sorrowful lover to crafty politician, Amina must suppress natural feminine emotions in order to accomplish the impossible, attain the unattainable and ultimately convince the skeptical empire of her ability to make true Zazzau’s long cherished dreams of dominance over all of the sub-sahara. “Pitted without, against panicked kings and Sarkis of neighbouring vassal states, and within; Zazzau’s ambitious war generals, politicians, and the sinister all powerful Madawaki whose hunger for the throne of Zazzau is equalled only by his lust for its lovely occupant; Amina must play statesman and military strategist, harlot and queen, ruthless executioner and gentle mother to Zazzau’s oppressed millions to achieve her goal of creating a better Zazzau, a more humane, civilised Zazzau standing on the foundations of modern-day governmental structures.”

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 23, 2021

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Netflix, UNESCO to Empower Emerging African Filmmakers Ferdinand Ekechukwu

frica has a rich storytelling heritage and a wealth of folktales that have been passed down for generations. When you marry these very indigenous continental stories with Africa’s emerging talent, there is no limit to fresh new stories to connect people with African cultures and bring the world much closer. On this premise, Global streaming platform, Netflix in collaboration with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) seek to discover and empower new voices in the African filmmaking firmament. This partnership, through a newly launched short-film competition for the emerging filmmakers across sub-Saharan Africa, themed, ‘African Folktales, Reimagined’, “will offer six winners resources to develop their talents on a global scale. Winners will be trained and mentored by industry professionals and provided with a US$75,000 production budget, through a local production company, to create short films that will premiere on Netflix in 2022 as an “Anthology of African folktales”, Netflix and UNESCO said in a statement. The statement said further: “We want to find the bravest, wittiest, and most surprising retellings of some of Africa’s most-loved folktales and share them with entertainment fans around the world in over 190 countries. The competition, which will be administered by Dalberg, will open on 14 October 2021 until 14 November 2021.” In addition, each of the winners will also receive $25,000. The state-

Netﬂix’s Director of Content for Africa, Ben Amadasun

ment disclosed that UNESCO had approached Netflix as part of the continent’s first comprehensive mapping of the film and audiovisual industries. “What we’re trying to achieve with Netflix« is how we can engage those young film-makers in telling stories of African folk and in passing on, through the generations, the culture and the

traditions that are in place in Africa. To do this, partnering with a platform on the global scale of Netflix was vital to ensure visibility.” UNESCO and Netflix both strongly believe in the importance of promoting diverse local stories, and bringing them to the world. They recognize that many emerging filmmak-

ers struggle with finding the right resources and visibility to enable them to fully unleash their talents and develop their creative careers. This competition aims to address these issues and enable African storytellers to take a first step towards showcasing their content to a global audience. This competition puts a global spotlight on the emerging, homegrown talents of Africa while honouring the storytelling tradition of the continent. By infusing new energy into folktales, these young filmmakers enable stories to transcend time, space and culture - from their communities, through a digital platform, into the hearts of audiences around the world. This partnership will help create sustainable employment and encourage economic growth and it will therefore contribute to the achievement of the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda, a series of targets established by the United Nations which aims to end global poverty in all its forms by the end of this decade. This film competition will also help reduce inequalities by facilitating access to global markets and by guaranteeing dignified working conditions. All of these are key goals within the 2030 Agenda. On how to apply, for the first round, applicants will be required to submit a synopsis of their concept (no more than 500 words) as well as links to a recent CV and a portfolio evidence of any past audiovisual work they have produced. Applications can be submitted via http: www.netflix-growcreative.com unesco from October 14th at 1 :00 CET and will close on November 14th, 2021 at 13:59 PM CET. The competition is open to prospective individuals seeking to venture into feature film development and production.

Idahams Wraps up the Year with ‘Problem’ Ferdinand Ekechukwu

Idahams’ ‘Man on Àre’ EP had enacted various real-life experiences of the artiste, listeners and fans were locked in for a sonic journey like never before. And after the trans-continental success of the ‘Man on Fire’ remixes, which has generated millions of streams across digital platforms globally, the Grafton Records artiste is back to wrap up the year with a new single which he calls “Problem”. Produced by Idahams, with co-production credit to Yussy Beats, “Problem” is infused sound of Pop and jazz with elements of Amapiano and House music that delivers an up-tempo feel. ‘Problem’ is a feel-good track with the fast rising singer and producer, telling his fans to take a break from the usual troubles of life to dance and try to enjoy the little things that bring happiness. ‘Problem’ is deÀnitely a track to add to your playlist but not to your life, literarily. Hart Idawarifagha lshmael, professionally known by his stage name Idahams, is a producer, singer, song-writer, and performer, from Bonny Island, Rivers State. As a kid, Idahams had passion and love for music: “In fact, I ate music. My dad inspired me into music because he used to sing and loved highlife music and I grew up listening to him”. At the age of 10, Idahams joined the Music Department at the Anglican Church in Rivers State where he learnt to play musical instruments. A graduate of the School of Oceanography, Idahams studied Marine Engineering in Seamanship. The

‘Port Harcourt Boy’ who relocated to Lagos to chase his music dream signed to Grafton Records in 201 after his uncle introduced him to Tonye Ibiama, CEO of Grafton Records. He then had his dreams come alive when he put pen to paper for Grafton Records, the same platform that houses the more established act, Mr 2kay. Once recounting his ordeal in life, the ‘Ada’ crooner said, “I thought my world was over after I lost my parents and I didn’t want to be caught up in the mix of militancy and unrest in Port Harcourt at the time. So, meeting Mr. Ibiama and getting signed to Grafton Records changed my life.” Tonye Ibiama describes how he was introduced to him by a relative, with one Demo, and he oͿered him a deal. Idahams released songs include ‘Anything for You’, ‘Toast’, ‘Heal the Land’ and his latest, ‘No One Else’. The singer who put out a -track EP titled Amayanabo earlier in 2019 followed with a new record, ‘Billion Dollar’ which serves his Àrst major release on Universal Music Group Nigeria (UMGNG), as part of a joint venture deal with Grafton Entertainment. “I have been pushing to achieve mainstream success over the last three years and I have been fortunate with the reception that my music has received thus far. The deal with Universal Music Group Nigeria, allows me to tap into the label’s resources and experience within the industry. The goal is to have my music heard beyond the continent and I believe this deal will help me achieve this,” Idahams recalled during an interview.

Idahamss

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 23, 2021

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19 Tosin Clegg

07062816737 e-mail: tosinclegg@hotmail.com

Kie Kie

Don’t Waste Your Time Trying to Be Somebody Else Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori professionally known as Kie Kie is a multi-talented TV personality, actress, content creator, model and fashion icon. She also positions as a brand influencer and uses her fans to promote and improve the value of her clients. In this interview with Tosin Clegg, Kie Kie talks about her brand and career Growing up for me was very exciting

ysiblingsareamazing and I have amazing parents. I also went to the best schools, secondary school was in Ibadan. For my university, I went to Bowen University, studied Mass Communication and later on read internet and digital marketing for my masters. Thereafter, I went for fashion qualiÀcations at London College of Fashion. So, yes I would say that growing up was beautiful and right from the time that I was a child, I’d always said I wanted to be a communicator hence I read mass communication. I’ve always been the one that would talk a lot, I’ve always been extremely expressive so I’m not surprised, my parents and family are not surprised that I’m where I am today. Right from Sunday school to my teenage age, I’ve always been on the drama to debate units, I’ve always been active in the creative wing you know, the choreography group and all of that stuͿs. So yes I’ve always been that girl who had talents and luckily, I have parents and siblings who had supported those dreams from the very beginning. I have a few principles that guard how I live my life Number one thing is ‘never ever live in somebody else’s shadow’. God is such a creative being and he has created us all with speciÀc set of skills, so don’t waste your time trying to be somebody else. Just look within and be yourself, you might not be good enough today, but you know what they say about practice? It makes perfect. Number two is, ‘it’s okay to fail; it is very very okay to fail.’

I believe that failure is part of your journey to success. So you must fail, because there are great lessons that come with failure. So, embrace your failure, regroup, apply more wisdom from what you must have learnt from the failure and it will always be better. And Ànally, they say ‘opportunity comes but once’ but I say “prioritize opportunity, but when you miss it, don’t let it weigh you down”, because I believe strongly in Christ and I know that he alone makes everything good in his own time. My own TV show I grew up hoping to own my own TV show but I didn’t want it to be the regular show, so at that I said ‘how do I make this diͿerent?’ I introduced humour into my fashion content because I have such a strong passion for fashion. At Àrst, I was afraid because I’ve never seen anything like that on TV in Nigeria, but it was good to have shows like the fashion police but I wasn’t sure how Nigerians will take that direction and I mean the rest they say is history. The acceptance is wild, it is amazing, it is encouraging and beautiful. Now you see, for movies, people kind of saw my character in the fashion shock show and just felt this girl has so much energy and vibe, she will be a great actor, and then I started getting calls for movie roles. So I never set out to be an actress, I never went for auditions, but the directors just reached out to me and say oh, I’ll like to work with you on XY project. Thankfully, I’ve received a couple of scripts, when I vibe with the script I take it, if I don’t, then unfortunately, I wouldn’t take the script. And for skits now, it’s the same thing. We just have this amazing content creators, this

Kie Kie

amazing skit makers just say “omo this girl is crazy let me feature her”. But, another thing that really highlighted my strength and depth of expression is going to be during the lockdown that I started what I hashtag Kiekie Bants and I’ll talk about lots of relatable topics and people love to listen to me, and then they say, “oh kiekie carries her audience along”, “oh kiekie is a vibe”, “kiekie na cruise”. These are all the things that formed my journey into movies and content creation.

0\ FRQYLFWLRQ FRPHV IURP WKH ÁRZ It comes to me naturally. I naturally express myself. I naturally coin humourous words. I naturally come up with funny scripts and content ideas, I naturally come up with great fashion designs. It all comes to me naturally and that is just a proof to me that it is who I am and all I just did was to embrace it. The journey is going good and I’m loving every single step of it. To be honest, I always say that when it comes to inspiration for content creation, I do not necessarily take credit for the quality, value and standard of work I put out there, because, trust me, it just comes to me! it comes to me! Like, I’m just seated and a silly mad ass idea comes to my head. I have full folder of voice note of ideas, a folder of videos where I just express ideas as they come to me. So, I’m not necessarily inspired by anything actually, I don’t have to be in a particular space, I don’t need to look at a particular thing, I don’t need to read a particular thing, I don’t need to watch a particular thing, it just comes to me naturally, and that, I’m super grateful to God for, because they just come. But in all of this, I function best when I’m happy. Luckily I’m mostly happy. Working with other creatives It has been enlightening, it has been educating, expressive and most importantly a learning curve. A good experience for me as content creator myself. There’s nothing as joyous as working with people that are of like minds. You see people demonstrate diͿerent levels of creativity and you’re like ‘ahn ahn this is sick but for me, it’s amazing.’ So far, I’ve done a lot of works. If I have to put a number to it I’ll need to settle down to count but I’ve done a lot, I can’t just count it oͿ my head like that.

Genesis MadHouse’s Outspok’n Aims for a Global Space New EP is Ready Music video director, Genesis MadHouse who is now set to debut his Àrst body of work dubbed “3:33”. The Atlanta-based singer has been on the scene for years directing videos for top artistes before deciding to make a switch to making music and debuted his Àrst single back in 2018 dubbed “Big Ole, Small Ole” in which he featured Zlatan, Minjin and Q2. The singer is set to release this body of work after a long wait as his music career has taken a huge turn this year 2021. Speaking about what to expect from the EP, he said, “Realism, 3:33 encapsulates my past struggles, what I’ve been through and my current struggles as well. A lot of people would see themselves and their struggles listening to some of the songs on my EP and believe that anything is possible with a little faith. I have such a diverse sound on my EP. I’m blessed to have great minds come together to create an amazing body of work and I know the fans would enjoy it.” An amazing switch from video directing to music isn’t something that can easily be done but so far he has managed to make that work over the years since his debut single and the love from his fans has been enormous which saw one of his freestyle on Audiomack hit 10k

Genesis

streams without him making it o΀cial to his fans. Genesis MadHouse’s latest single this year “Slave” is making massive moves which also prompted the singer to package this body of work. He is currently signed to his owned record label called MadHouse Entertainment. As regards his style of music, he said, “I make Afro beat and Afro pop. My genre of music really spreads wide, depends on how I feel when writing and creating songs. I’m exceptional because I am a creator and I don’t just make music as I create art with it. I’m a business man, producer, director and an artiste. I feel like I’m a total package.”

Outspok’n Clothiers is one of Nigeria’s most preferred, fashion brand based in Lagos. The company is led by the Creative Direction Adesola Balogun, who is a young and dynamic fashion entrepreneur. His wealth of experience has drawn him into building a fashion brand seasoned with expert tailoring, and an applauding touch of quality combined with value for money. With his experience of over 10 years, Balogun passionately mentors young fashion entrepreneurs in the business of fashion also. Speaking about being exceptional, the Creative Director said, “What makes Outspok’n exceptional is our attention to the customer’s needs. We like to tailor our outfits to fit the customer’s preference which is why we are bold to say we are not for everybody. We aim to churn out the best quality outfits in the least quality time.” Attesting to their exceptional value, Balogun adds, “Our inspiration comes mostly from the pieces that are getting us excited at the moment. For instance, we have fallen in love with Aso Oke and that love seems to express itself in so many

Adesola Balogun

ways. Our customers have absolutely loved it.” With a vision to conquer and serve a pool of fashion enthusiastic clientele, the company recently opened a new store in Surulere, Lagos to offer a one of a kind tailoring experience.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 23, 2021

SUPER SATURDAY Ray Emodi

I Don’t Go Around Saying My Mum Used to Be a Senator Nollywood actor, singer, songwriter and producer, Ray Emodi is a blend of all things entertainment. Buoyed by his wild imagination growing up, Emodi has lived the life entertaining self from childhood without knowing he would end up entertaining others. Emodi, who holds a degree in Business Management and International Strategic Enterprise from Nottingham Trent University, and a Master of Fine Arts (acting) from the New York Film Academy, tells Ferdinand Ekechukwu about his passion for the craft, his plans and pleasure and also about his greatest influence, Senator Joy Emodi, who happens to be his mother… Ray Emodi

ow often do you get tied to that name “Joy Emodi” with your status in the industry? You know if I was in the political world or in the civil service world, I guess the connection would be made a lot more than it’s made right now in the entertainment industry. Not that the entertainers are not into what’s happening politically, some people know because of they are from the east. But generally, I don’t get that a lot. And I’m not the guy that goes around saying my mum used to be a senator or something like that. I don’t like announcing that. Has the goal always being entertainment for you? The goal was always to do something that I would enjoy. The goal was never to do a ‘9 to 5’. I knew that for a fact that I didn’t want to do a 9-5, I didn’t want to do any paper pushing job that would be so regimented because I have a wild imagination. I wanted to do a job that I could use my imagination. So in movies ﬁrst because that’s where I’m focused, I get to use my imagination. In music, I get to use my imagination. I actually have a single dropping on October 22, 2021. It’s called ‘Steph Curry’. It’s an Amapiano song. It’s a dope, dope, dope song. I’ve been teasing it on my page and everything and people are like ‘you are an actor trying to

do music’, they hear the song and they are like ‘oh wow he’s actually good’. But they don’t understand. I started writing music before I ever thought of acting. I started writing music when I was like 9 or 8. I was writing other people’s lyrics; it graduated to me writing my own lyrics. I was writing like songs like 2pac, Rick Ross, Snoop Dog so I could sing along with them when they rap. So when I got a little bit older like when I got to maybe 12 or something, I started being able to put down my own thoughts in the form of lyrics and melodies. I have actually been holding down that craft at least, for almost two decades now. I turned 31 on September 4. I didn’t know entertainment was what I was actually going to do but with the qualities I have, entertainment was always going to be where I would land. And then it would be the ignition to what I would like to build up, an empire and would have businesses as well. Starting next year I would start producing my own ﬁlms while being guided by a seasoned producer. What genre of music do you do? I’m eccentric musically. I have Afro songs, hip-hop songs, alternative songs. The one coming Friday is Afro, Amapiano to be speciﬁc. Called ‘Steph Curry’

Any plans of an EP or LP in the works? Yes, an EP titled ‘My Queen’. The EP drops next year. This single is not part of the EP. How about modeling because I read you do modeling as well? That was earlier. I had like a few modeling gigs when I was in LA in America. But it’s not my thing like that. You know models like normally just look good and don’t say anything. I say too much to be a model. I think too much and have too many ideas. I’m not saying models don’t have ideas. I feel like models are limited you know; unless it’s to make a statement or project a cause. Unless it’s something significant then I can model. And not just to be a model. Let’s talk on acting from the look of things now it appears to be your mainstay right? It’s definitely my main thing. Because like in acting, you don’t need to push the film or you don’t need to have the distribution process set up. You just have to show up, do your job and go. And then they spread it all over the place. Music is the opposite. You have to push it. Because I don’t want to sign to a record label, I only signed that it’s a distribution deal with a distribution

company. All the weight in the pushing lies in me but they just help me put it on platforms you know and stuff like that. That’s why my movies are popping much more than my music. Still on your career you have a bachelor’s degree in Business Management from Nottingham Trent University… It’s actually Business Management and International Strategic Enterprise. It’s like a fancy way of saying marketing. I actually did well in Nottingham in terms of my graduating. I was actually the top graduating student. My mum is more proud of it than I am. She tells all her friends. She’s so proud of it. So I’m so happy for that. I’m happier for her about it than I am for myself. And then afterwards you went for a Masters in Fine Arts… Yeah I mastered in acting for film. You know acting is different like, especially in America. They address it specifically. You know there are two different kinds of acting; there’s stage acting and then there’s film acting. Stage acting is loud because you have to project; there are people in the back. Film acting is more subtle. You can whisper because the mic will put it on. You don’t have to be too loud in your expressions and even the way you move your hands. It’s technical. I prefer film acting to stage; that’s why I mastered in acting for film.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 23, 2021

SUPER SATURDAY I Spent My Entire Life Preparing for What I’m Doing Now And then you finished schooling and you decide to come back to Nigeria. Ordinarily one would have expected you to stay back and chase the acting and the entertainment thing in LA which is the world of entertainment… Yes that was what I wanted to do but you know, first of all, LA is one of the most expensive places to live in the world. And that’s natural. But I wasn’t making as much money as I was spending. Because I finished schooling (my masters) and I stayed back for 18 months. And those 18 months I wasn’t generating much money so I was spending the money that I had. I was spending a lot of money. . . At a point my folks were like I should come back. My dad was ‘like come back, Nigeria is a virgin land; there are loads of things and ideas that has not been explored,’ which is factual. It’s faster here to get to the top than it is in America. Let’s talk about your childhood growing up what was it like and what fond memories do you hold? Childhood was interesting. You know I’m the last of four of two boys, two girls. So everybody was really in school, boarding school in different states doing their thing while I was still the last one in the house. I grew up a lot alone; so I got to listen to music a lot, watch cartoon a lot, and watch movies a lot. My whole life outside school then was just keeping myself entertained by listening to songs for hours. I could watch a cartoon for hours, movies for hours. I felt like it was study. That’s why I said I spent my entire life preparing for what I’m doing now; for what I would do in future. I feel like I have been holding my craft since day one. My childhood was a lot of building my imagination and it was fun. I had fond memories obviously. We got to travel to England, go to Texas, go to LA, go to Ghana, it was fun. Just travelling during every break and then you come back the next term to Enugu, you come back to Abuja, come back to wherever I’m coming back to. I appreciate that because meeting and knowing and immersing yourself in other cultures is very important and can only help you. A bit on your growing up... when you spent time watching movies, listening to music and watching cartoons you never knew you would turn out to be an entertainer? I was entertaining myself but I never knew I would do it for other people. You know kids when you ask them what they want to be, you ask a 9-year-old he says I want to be an engineer, you ask him when he’s 10 he says I want to be a fireman, when he’s 11 I want to be a pilot. But they know what they want to be at different stages even though they change it every time. But me, as a kid, I never really said I wanted to be this or I wanted to be that. And in this profession, I get to have fun for a living. I get to play other people; act like a doctor, act like a chief, act like a good husband act like a bad husband you know I get to play different people. It’s stressful, don’t get me wrong, it’s stressful but fun as well. There are certain productions that you might go on that will make you regret being an actor (laughs). But it doesn’t happen often. For the most part, it’s a beautiful job. We make more impact in people’s life in comparison to the financial reward. That’s why I said I’m going to start producing my own movies. I feel like to have more control and tell my stories and also to have more financial gain. Who or what do you consider the greatest influence in your life? The greatest influence in my life, wow, that’s a big question. Probably my mum I wouldn’t lie (he said repeatedly), because she molded a lot of what I am, especially while I was growing up. She preach humility, she preach respect, she preach being humble and nice, she preach that a lot and hard work. I saw her work hard. She is a hard worker especially back then. She was really, really, really going hard. She will be in law school and also selling clothes to people and also being a tailor you know while having

Ray Emodi

There are certain productions that you might go on that will make you regret being an actor (laughs). But it doesn’t happen often. For the most part, it’s a beautiful job. We make more impact in people’s life in comparison to the ÀQDQFLDO UHZDUG kids while married. Women… She’s a multi-tasking legend (laughs). That’s why she could achieve what she achieved as the ﬁrst Igbo woman senator in Nigeria, like you can’t beat that if you are not a hardworking person, a smart person, an industrious person. So I’m very proud of her. And I would say yes, she is the biggest inﬂuence in my life. There’s something about your Instagram bio you know it says “I

make movies, I make music and I make love. I enjoy all three.” You have talked about movies, you have talked about music, talk about the love aspect… what do you mean by that? The reason I added that to complete the trinity is that in bio people talk about themselves, they distance themselves. So a description of me, the things I do, the things I love you know. I do movies and I enjoy them, I love it. I do music and I enjoy it, I love it.

So I feel like it’s up to people to know about me. I know that Nigerians don’t like talking about that kind of thing. I like being a bit funny in that aspect but with the truth. Looking at you, you are a handsome dude, a good spec for a number of ladies, you are a movie star you get quite acknowledged and admired by people wherever you go and all that and most of these people are ladies I guess… one would have expected you to have so many women… Yes, yes. I would say 80 percent of my fans are women. On Instagram its 79 or 78 percent of my followers are women, men are like 22 percent. I have women in my life more but that doesn’t mean I’m not single. I’m single but I am not committed to anyone of them yet. I enjoy their presence. What is it that not too many people know about you? I don’t even know. Erm let me see… How tall I am until they see me in person. I’m really, really tall. I’m like 6/4 and half almost 6/5 yeah. So when people see me the ﬁrst thing I hear all the time is ‘wow, you are taller in person’ like all the time. Because the camera and everything the way movies are shot you can’t really tell how tall a person is. That’s the ﬁrst thing you notice about me, whoever when you see me. If I was in America around basketball players I wouldn’t standout but being in Nigeria I standout for sure.

˜ ˾ OCTOBER 23, 2021

BOOK REVIEW My Mama at 95 is the Only Girlfriend I Have, Says Ben Murray-Murray Mrs. Margaret Murray-Bruce clocks 95 next week Tuesday. In her yet to be published biography, Mama and Papa, a Legacy Alive, her ﬁfth son, Senator Ben Murray-Murray waxes lyrical on a mother like no other, the product of heavenly Jerusalem. Excerpts by Nduka Nwosu

y earliest experience with her was when my allowance was fixed at three pence and for some reason my father would give me my three pence on a Friday when I was at Our Lady’s Primary School Yaba Lagos. It did not make any sense. Why give a child his allowance on a Friday? Why not give me the allowance on a Monday so that I can

enjoy my money? You give me the money on a Friday, I buy ice cream and I am broke for six days. I only got my pocket money on Fridays. So, one Friday I collected my three pence and mama called me to a meeting and said she would like to talk to me. She said: “You know Ben you are a spendthrift? I do not like the way you are spending money. You have to save.” I exclaimed: “What! The three pence is only for ice cream.” I was only eight years old. I said how can I save with three pence for my ice cream. I said Mama when I get older, I will save. She said: “Save for the rainy day. I replied: “Mama it is raining already; there are thunderstorms everywhere.” That was my first argument; I continued: “Don’t worry when I get older, I’ll have a lot of three pence to save. Don’t worry mama; I’ll look after you.” She always thought I was a spendthrift, that I always gave things away. She was not happy with me at all. I remember when I set up Silverbird and I said to Michael: “Look you are the chief executive of Domino Stores; let us make a deal. You run Silverbird; I will run Domino. We have been running the same company for too long. Let us do sometimes different.” Mama said: “No, no, you are too kind; you will give everything away. You will give the whole store away. All the goods will be given free of charge to everybody.” I asked: “What type of logic is that?” Michael and papa thought it was a clever idea; mama said no that I would dash everything away. So, I did not become the MD of Domino Stores, Michael did not become the President of Silverbird Productions. Beyond that, years went by; mama was always so caring and loving and sweet. When I started paying attention to her was when my father died. These days I spend some time talking to her; we spend a lot of time together. There are so many of us. Growing up it was the girls that were closest to her, not the boys, the girls, maybe including Willie, maybe Michael. However, as time went on, that was in the past ten years, I became incredibly close to her. She became the love of my life to the point where in the last eight years of my wife’s life, every time we were together, I would take pictures with my mum, not even my wife. It never occurred to me my wife would leave us so soon. That was how close I was to mama. We were always together; we were always talking; she was telling me stories. Nigeria was a top of the topic because she told me she went to Saint Mary’s and we should go to see the school, that she lived in Ikoyi with her dad as a child; it is incredibly sad we have not been able to do that. She kept telling me about the Second World War and how the British soldiers were all over Lagos and how they had lights out and drills. She said there was a bunker opposite Saint Mary’s because the colonial government felt the Germans were going to bomb Nigeria; and to be on guard there were troops everywhere. She told me about racism in Nigeria which I never knew happened. She said she was serving the nuns and saw the white and black nuns kept separately. She did not understand it was racism; the whites and the blacks did not mix; she said she was raised in the Catholic Church. She witnessed racism in London when my father went on an overseas training with Dr. Christopher Abebe, who later became the UAC Chairman. Here in London, all the wives were together and would use the same bus and if they were at the bus stop waiting, a bus would approach the bus stop and upon seeing the black wives at the bus stop, would move on without stopping. They did not stop to pick up black people. They looked for other alternatives such as the train service. We became very close. She told her story of how she met papa and they got married and their numerous travels. We bonded; once or twice a week we spent a couple of hours talking and I regret not recording her. My wife is gone, my daughter is in America, so mama is the only girl friend I have now. I spend a lot of time with her, and I enjoy speaking with her. Talking to her reminds me of my conversations with President Olusegun Obasanjo who I always quiz about the past, like his exchange of baton with the Black Scorpion Col. Adekunle Fajuyi as the Commander of the Third Marine Commando, what happened when he hired this minister or fired the other one, what happened when he ran the country in his first incarnation as Head of State and later as President. I have read all of Obasanjo’s books, which is why I am happy a book on my mum is in the works. Basically, talking to my mum is like talking to Obasanjo because

Ben and his mother, Margaret Obasanjo is a phenomenal historian with a great memory. Mama loves travelling; she travelled round the world with papa, and she is still travelling. Mama is a historian and storyteller. Mama has travelled round the country and is able to tell what life was like then and now. She loves the markets; many of the women love seeing her. She travelled round the country with papa, and she has graphic descriptions of what Nigeria was like in those days. Mama comes to see me regularly; she loves hanging out with me. During her 90th birthday sea cruise to Mexico, she was always at the night club listening to music and concerts; she does not sleep, she likes to have a good time; she likes to be on the roll. And I said you know I am learning from you because you are almost 95; you want to go to a night club; you want to go to a concert; you want to go to a beauty pageant whether it is Mr. Nigeria or the Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria (MBGN) beauty pageant, you want to have a good time; you want to be around young people; you ask questions. You talk to people. Hey when I am 95, I want to be like that because what else can you ask for. Any Sunday she is with me, and my friends come around, they say to me that they would like to do that to their mums. They say hey, you celebrate your mum every week, we would like to go home and celebrate our mums. Your mum is not always here forever, I tell my friends; while she is here, make the most of what you have. Since the loss of my wife, the presence of my mother has had an added importance to me. She is very smart, very smart I mean; she is good at educating people; she understands the world; she understands politics; she reads the newspapers, watches the television, and knows what is happening at the Vatican and around the Pope; she knows what is happening around the country and what Buhari is doing. Aso Rock guest She was the guest of the Villa for one week when Stella Obasanjo was around. She was with Stella’s parents. She would wake up to see the giraffes and the buffaloes, the animal life at the Villa. She has had a great life. She enjoys her children, always praying for us. We are always in touch with her. I speak for myself. My kids are spectacularly in love with her. My wife loved her and all I can say is that I love my mum but more importantly I want everybody to appreciate their mothers. I do not want to know what the reason is but do not fight your mother. My mum like my dad, has minimum need for material things. She just wants to be happy. What does she need the material things for? My father did not like material things; my

mother does not like material things. I am not crazy about material things just like my brothers and sisters. My wife’s attitude to material things was even worse. That is a good trait. I did not have a wife you would threaten with money or some material value and say if you do not do this or that I would not buy you things. She would rather burst out laughing; you could not threaten her; you could not threaten my wife; it was impossible. I had a wife I could not threaten with money; she had no interest. I had a mother whose compensation had nothing to do with money. You either love her or you do not love her. I want my mum to be the happiest mum in the world. Whatever time she has left, I want to spend it with her. Mama’s kindness is beyond the ordinary. She gives everything away because she does not need much. She does not need a bank account because all her kids are there for her and whatever she needs she gets; whatever she gets she gives away. Mama has an incredibly good health, which something must be responsible for. She has a great memory; she has a magnificent work ethic; she is always incredibly happy; she loves to laugh; she is a fun-mum with no inhibition gap and no conversation gap when you have any conversation with her. My father was poor working with UAC, earning two thousand pounds. By the time he retired, his salary was nothing to talk about. On retirement, Chief Shonekan was the Legal Adviser and Chief Christopher Abebe was Chairman. As part of his retirement benefits, he was asked to go with a couple of ailing stores with the mandate to revive them and keep the UAC flag flying in some other territory. That was how he got Domino Stores and life improved for those of us who were born after that. As chairman of UAC, I visited regularly Chief Ernest Shonekan who later succeeded President Ibrahim Babangida as Head of the Interim National Government, asking questions why Kingsway Stores collapsed, and he talked about the thefts and other issues that led to the shutdown. I loved Shonekan and enjoyed my conversations with him. I often accused him on why he has not authored a book on why UAC, one of the greatest conglomerates in Nigeria and Africa at a point, became an afterthought, because UAC is my legacy. My father during his career was the manager of Kingsway Stores. My father is gone, Abebe is gone, just like many chief executives of UAC. The only person who has something authentic and authoritative to document on UAC is Chief Shonekan. I loved all my dad’s friends-Chief Shonekan, Chief Abebe et al. From a historical perspective you cannot talk of the growth of Corporate Nigeria and its complex problems without doing an investigation regarding the fall of UAC, Leventis Stores, and the collapse of Leventis United, UTC, PZ, Chellarams, Kewalrams, and other industries in that milieu. We need to do a book on why these huge organisations have either collapsed or taken a backseat as players in Corporate Nigeria. Domino Stores succeeded because it was very personalised. I worked for Domino Stores as a child at the Customer Service Department Yaba branch. My dad was an extremely strict guy raised by the Catholic church as a student with a potential for the priesthood. Talking to him was like talking to a priest, extremely strict, very regimented on the one hand; on the other hand, he was a fantastic father because he liked to sing; he liked to dance and sing. My father taught me never to look down on anybody. I was 10 years old at Yaba. He said: “Ben, look at that child over there; he could be Nigeria’s next President,” as if he knew Goodluck would show up someday. He continued: “The difference between you and him is the circumstance of his birth. It is not that he is stupid or that he is a fool. He is simply poor; his parents are poor but don’t put him down.” I replied: “Thank you daddy.” I have an affinity with my staff and people who work around me because the difference between them and me is the opportunity that came our way in a poorly, and badly managed country where the opportunity for citizens to grow or for the nation to be great has been wasted. A well-managed country offers opportunities for greatness. Read full article online - www.thisdaylive.com

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ OCTOBER 23, 2021

POLITY NGEP Engages Stakeholders on Roll Out of Micro Distribution Centres in Katsina Francis Sardauna writes that the engagement of stakeholders in Katsina State by the National Gas Expansion Programme for the rapid rollout of micro distribution centres will enhance the use of liquefied Petroleum gas in the state

s part of the ongoing engagement and communication with internal and key stakeholders in the country, the National Gas Expansion Programme (NGEP) recently engaged stakeholders in communities across the 34 Local Government Areas of Katsina State with regards to the rapid roll out of micro distribution centres in the state which is in furtherance to the achievement of the set aims and objectives of the

project. The Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources, with the laudable support and sponsorship from the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), formally flagged off the campaign for the implementation of the project in the state with the stakeholders’ engagement meeting for the planning and communication for the rapid rollout of micro distribution centres. The historic event, held on October 9th, 2021 at the Katsina Tourist Lodge, had 65 people in attendance consisting of representatives from all the 34 local government areas of the state, women in registered cooperatives, representatives of Independent Petroleum Marketers Association (IPMAN) representatives of the gas retailers association, Nigerian Automobile Technicians Association (NATA) as well as members of youth groups in the state. Also in attendance were the Director General, Katsina Investment Promotion Agency, Ibrahim Tukur Jikamshi; Secretary of the State Standing Committee on National Gas Expansion Programme, Husseini El-ladan; Dr Aminu Abba Yahaya, representative of the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources; the Chief Health and Safety Officer of the Federal Fire Service, Ibrahim Abdullahi Lawal; traditional rulers from the Daura and Katsina Emirates; Council of Ulamas as well as practicing journalists from both broadcast and print media. Speaking at the event, the Director-General of the Katsina State Investment Promotion Agency (KIPA), Jikamshi, gave a brief overview of the National Gas Expansion Programme, especially on the rapid roll out of micro distribution centres and its expected economic benefits to the people of the state. He expressed the readiness of the state government to give all necessary support to the success of the National Gas Expansion Project, saying the project would create more employment opportunities for the teeming youths across the three senatorial zones of the state. He applauded the Nigerian Content Development Board (NCDMB) for its role in ensuring that the National Gas Expansion Programme achieves its domestic expansion plan in the state through the sponsorship of the project to ensure positive impacts on the socio economic development of Katsina State. To show the commitment of the state government to the programme, he said his department mobilised some of the relevant stakeholders that attended the event, to tap into the project and ensure its full utilization for the people of the state, and to achieve the general aims and objectives of the Project in the state. In his presentation, Dr Aminu Yahaya of the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources highlighted some of the negative impacts of using the traditional firewood as a means of cooking, the social, economic and the environmental benefits of using liquefied petroleum gas as an alternative source of cooking for both domestic and commercial uses. Yahaya gave a graphic analysis of the damages and pollution that the use of firewood causes to the environment, citing deforestation and desertification as some of its negative effects. According to him, this has contributed in no small measure to the reduction of arable land for grazing of animals thereby contributing to the herders-farmers clashes in the country. He equally elucidated damaging effects of the smoke from firewood to the health and well-being of women, adding that recent researches

Stakeholders at the meeting

have shown that smokes from firewood has contributed to the death of so many women leading to high mortality rates in the country. He emphasized on the social, economic and environmental benefits of the use of liquefied petroleum gas. These benefits, he said, included the reduction in the stress and agony women go through in preparing food for their household through the use of firewood. Also, the massive use of liquefied gas across the country would guarantee employment opportunities for the youths, and reduce the flaring of gas into the atmosphere. Yahaya said: “It was due to the enormous benefits in the use of liquefied gas that the Federal Government of Nigeria introduced the National Gas Expansion Programme, which is aimed at massive roll-out of small gas retail outlets across the country. “The aim of these outlets is to bring the dispensing and availability of gas to the remotest areas in the country. Such retail outlets would be properly equipped with dispensing machines, measuring equipment and safety measures”. He explained that the intention of the project was not to drive the existing retail marketers out of business; rather, it is to partner with them, to boost their capacity and ensure their safety from the associated risks. He called on all the stakeholders to embrace the project and to ensure its success in the state. Presenting a paper on the Challenges Faced in the Use of Liquefied Petroleum Gas and the Safety Measures, the Chief Health and Safety Officer of the Federal Fire Service, Lawal, explained the classification of fire, its causes and the prevention and safety measures against fire outbreak especially while using gas. He also spoke extensively on the requirements and guidelines necessary for the set-up of gas retail outlets, lamenting that a large number of retailers of gas in Katsina State do not follow due process before the establishment of such centres. Some of the requirements enumerated by him included the need for the availability of ventilated warehouses devoid of heat and far from residential populated areas, provision of dispensing equipment, protective jackets and masks among other things. In his remarks, the District Head of Mai’Adua in Daura Emirate Council, Sada Sada, thanked the federal government under the leadership of President Mohammadu Buhari, for introducing what he described as a noble project. He also appreciated the support and sponsorship of the programme in Katsina State by the NCDMB. While praying that the aims and objectives of the project shall be achieved, the traditional ruler implored the participants to take the

message and lessons learnt during the session to their respective local governments and people in their organizations. Meanwhile, all the presentations at the event were followed by an interactive session, in which the participants were allowed to ask questions, comment or make suggestions that will aid the rapid roll out of the distribution centres. Some of the questions asked and comments made bordered on the following: The non-availability of gas deport in many rural areas and the belief that qualitative gas can only be gotten from deports and not the outlets, what are the benefits of the expansion programme for the youths in Katsina State, ways to check for the expiry dates of gas cylinders, the need to have more women participate and benefit from the project etc. The guest speakers at the event responded adequately to all the questions raised by the participants as thus: That the National Gas Expansion Programme shall ensure that small outlets are provided in the remote area, to be owned and managed by individuals in the community, with technical supports from the government, that part of the aims of the project is to ensure that beneficiaries that sign up include unemployed youths with a minimum of ordinary national diploma (OND) educational qualification, Also, the participants were assured that the project shall make use of existing structures with little modifications and specification. On the issue of expiring date of gas cylinders, the participants were made to understand that every cylinder has its expiry date written underneath; that the consumers should always check the expiring date to avoid malfunctioning of the cylinders and fire outbreaks. It was further explained that the National Gas Expansion Programme encourages the active participation of women, especially those in registered cooperatives. In his closing remarks, Yahaya Adamu, appreciated the large turn-out of the participants and commented on the information gathered from the interactive engagement, emphasizing the need for active participation, communication and engagement from all the citizens of the state. He also stated that as part of the continuous support and sponsorship of the project by the NCDMB and the training of beneficiaries of the Gas expansion project would commence in a few weeks. Adamu explained that beneficiaries would be drawn from a pool consisting of women in registered cooperatives, individuals or groups already in the business of gas (at retail and wholesale levels, also those selling in decanters) and unemployed youths with a minimum educational qualification of OND.

Sundry Foods: We’re Contributing to Nigeria’s Economy

undry Foods Group said it has contributed immensely in growing the economy of the country, by creating several outlets of its food services offering leading to job opportunities for Nigerians. Head, marketing, of the Group, Nduka Mokwunye, disclosed this at the official opening of Sundry Foods Stand Alone Pizza Jungle Store in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, recently. Mokwunye said the Group currently operates pizza jungles out of 26 locations across the country, even as he explained that the Stand-Alone Pizza Jungle being launched in Port Harcourt was the first in the planned coverage of the country with pizza service offering by his organization. He said that the new initiative by his organization has provided employment opportunity to a significant number of highly skilled Nigerians, empowered through training to offer world class services. According to him, Sundry Foods Group is an indigenous food services organization that recognizes the link between skilled manpower and qualitative outcome, just as he said that many talented unemployed abound in the country and Sundry Foods is delighted to create a platform that will help unlock them for the good of the economy. Mokwunye said: “We have 26 pizza Jungle stores across the country and each store has a significant number of employees

trained to offer world class services in food business. We don’t just hire employees we train them to meet high standards that we have adopted in our service offerings. By so doing we can claim confidently that we are contributing immensely to the economy of this country. “We have large presence in Port Harcourt, as well as other major centers of business across the country. Since our business operation commenced here in Port Harcourt, it’s only fair we test run the standalone pizza jungle here. The plan is to get it right from here and then spread to other locations.”Head, Marketing, Sundry Foods, Nduka Mokwunye; E-commerce Manager, Anthonia Egbuta; The Head, Marketing, furtherExecutive Director, Nnamdi Okpara; Head, Human Resources, Mmeme Best-Agbi; and Head, disclosed that the firm “wants to carveMarketing, Sundry Markets, Anthony Nwabuisi during the opening of Pizza Jungle Stand Alone a niche” in industry by ensuring thatStore in Port Harcourt... recently customers get services commensurable to their money. see pizza as something people consume as part of their lifestyle. He explained: “What sells us out is the quality of our products. We We are not just selling pizza; we are selling lifestyle through pizza. are very particular about experience, especially around consumption “We have 26 pizza jungle stores across Nigeria; but this (Port of our products. We want to create a lifestyle out of our brand. We Harcourt outlet) is the first stand-alone store in Port Harcourt.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 23, 2021

THEFRONTLINES

POLITY

A President and His Legacy

very President serving his country is always conscious of the legacy he wants to leave behind after leaving office. A President’s legacy is always framed around how well he has been able to deliver on his campaign promises or not. Thus, if a President, during his campaign, promised his people that he would take his country to the moon. After serving his term, his legacy would be how well he has been able to fulfill that objective or not. So as we gradually inch towards the end of President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration, it is important to begin to look at the Buhari legacy. In doing that, a reflection on his campaign promises which he hinged on ‘Change’ and a very disinterested assessment of his performance within the six years out of his eight years of two terms become imperative. Buhari swept into office under the blaze of tremendous goodwill. It was not surprising. Before now, Buhari had tried thrice to win the presidency without success. However, in 2015, the merger between CPC and ACN that created the APC gave Buhari a much assured and acceptable platform linking him with people like Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, Akande, and others of like minds. With the merger, the new party represented the proverbial handshake across Niger and provided the much-needed energy to fire up his campaign of change across the country. Buhari promised to improve Politics and Governance, National Security and Defence, Conflict Resolution, National Unity, And Social Harmony, Foreign Policy, Economy & Infrastructure and Equate N1.00 to $1.00. He promised to generate, transmit and distribute electricity on a 24/7 basis whilst simultaneously ensuring the development of sustainable/renewable energy, by 2019. He said he would embark on a National Infrastructural Development Programme as a Public-Private Partnership that will ensure 5,000km of Superhighway including service trunks and building of up to 6,800km of modern railway completed by 2019. In the Oil and Gas Industry, he said he would revive and reactivate our minimally performing refineries to optimum capacity; Increase the number of physicians from 19 per 1000 population to 50 per 1000 through deliberate medication education as epitomize by nations such as Ghana. He also promised to increase national health expenditure per person per annum to about N50,000 (from less than N10,000 currently); Ban medical tourism by our politicians from May 29, 2015, and several other promises that space can not permit here. So expectations were very high and most Nigerians had reasoned that, now that Buhari had finally clinched the presidency after losing thrice previously, an opportunity had presented itself for him to showcase his burning passion to serve the country and people. It’s been a little over six years since Buhari ascended the presidency and has less than two years to the end of his second term of eight years. Now with such a short time left to go, the jury is out and of course, it is the President himself who is already rolling out the drums to celebrate his sterling performers with his spokesman, Femi Adesina concluding that the President is more popular than Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, etc. According to Adesina: “I am old enough to have seen our colourful and even swashbuckling politicians in action. I have seen the great Obafemi Awolowo. The charismatic Nnamdi Azikiwe (Zik of Africa). Shehu Shagari. Amino Kano. MKO Abiola. Bashir Tofa and many others in action. But I have not seen anyone with the kind of attraction, magnetic pull, that Muhammadu Buhari has. And that is around the country, North and south. People swarm around him as bees do to honey. “I have been around the country with the president. I have also been to several countries of the world with him. I have not seen any other Nigerian leader, past or present, with his kind of allure, pull, fascination, magnetism.” He declared. Well, Adesina should not be in a hurry, he only needs to read Reuben Abati’s account of what happened the very day after former President Goodluck Jonathan lost the presidential election. Let us see what

Buhari happens after Buhari leaves office in 2023. Now, Buhari and his aides have the right to engage in self-adulation, it is within their inalienable right to do so. After all, the lizard that fell from a baobab tree, seeing that no one celebrated it, decided to nod its head in self-praise. In real terms, a president’s performance is better scored by the people. It is the people who feel the pains or enjoy the dividends of democracy provided by any sitting President, anything less is not credible. So how has Buhari fared? To the limits of his capacity, Buhari has done the best he could. On infrastructure, the administration has built on the foundation left by previous administrations. In the transportation sector, a lot has been achieved in the railway expansion from Lagos, Abuja, Kaduna, Kano, and Maradi in the Niger Republic. Other railway lines linking Lagos with Abeokuta, Ibadan, Port Harcourt, Enugu, Calabar, Uyo, etc are at different stages of development. It has also done tremendously well in agriculture through the Central Bank’s various interventions like the Anchor Borrowers’ scheme, microcredit support for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises covid intervention funds for households, etc. These interventions have helped in stabilizing businesses belonging to the citizenry ravaged by the harsh economic conditions brought about by Covid- 19 pandemic. The administration has also impacted the people positively with its populist conditional cash transfer, Tradermoni (even though many categorize that as vote-buying), school feeding programme, raise in the minimum wage, including for corp members. Although most states are unable to pay the minimum wage citing lack of funds, federal workers are already enjoying the new salary. Buhari should also be credited with clearing the backlog of Nigeria Airways workers’ salaries and pensions, payment of benefits accruing to soldiers and policemen who deserted to join Biafra, and the building of the second Niger bridge. He has also made an appreciable impact in the area of road construction, expanding road networks across targeted states. Having said that. The question is: Have all these and several other interventions not mentioned here changed Nigeria? No, they have not. If anything, these are mere artificial or cosmetic interventions that would not stand the test of time if matched against the change mantra Buhari campaigned on. So where did he go wrong and what needed to be done? Given the change, he promised Nigerians, Buhari needed to take office on an entirely new trajectory by jettisoning the old ways of doing things. For instance, Buhari would have embraced a Private Public Partnership model from the get-go where infrastructure funding would have been undertaken by the private sector. Had he adopted that model of financing, he would have charted an entirely new course for Nigeria. In addition, he would have saved Nigeria all the billions of dollars that his

JOSEPH USHIGIALE jushigiale@yahoo.co.uk, joseph.ushigiale@thisdaylive.com 08023422660 (sms only)

administration has mortgaged the country to now in the name of borrowing to finance infrastructure and lastly, he missed an opportunity to build very strong governance structures and lay a permanent foundation to eradicate corruption. In choosing to follow the same old beaten path of past administrations, Buhari failed woefully in adding value to the system. At best, it was business as usual and corruption has festered more under his watch than previous administrations before him. So where is the change he promised Nigerians? He promised to stabilize the naira by equating it N1 to $1. In 2015 when he took over, the naira was N160 to $1, today, it is floating between N540/570 to $1, the worst it has exchange so far in the history of this country. The President has literally ruined the economy. For a President who promised an annual growth of 16%, it was under his watch that the economy went into recession, the first of its kind in 25 years. Is it inflation that has hovered over 16% for the most part and rendering the few nairas in the pocket as worthless as tissue paper? The purchasing power of the naira has completely been eroded and Nigerians are barely struggling to survive the harsh economic realities under Buhari where food has become a luxury to the common man. The truth of the matter is that Nigeria under Buhari has grown an insatiable appetite for consumption without production. The reasons are that even the 24 hours electricity he promised has remained solely on paper six years after taking over the government. In fact, the electricity supply is so epileptic and has gone from worse to worst. Yet, we hear that thousands of megawatts are added to the grid on paper without an appreciable impact. Given the important role electricity plays in production, the lack of it has led to low capacity utilization, loss of jobs, and revenue even to the government. For a government that promised to put millions of Nigerians to work including new graduates, the promises remain an illusion without the right environment for companies to produce goods and services. As an oil-producing country, Buhari, a former federal commissioner for Petroleum Resources who roundly condemned the subsidy regime of the previous administration, describing it as non-existent, could not turn around the fortunes of the sector by taking steps to end the importation of petroleum products. Six years on the saddle, the refineries he promised to rehabilitate remain comatose and have become conduits and drain pipes for waste and corruption. While Nigeria imports petroleum products through the highly inefficient state oil company, the NNPC, the comatose refineries are posting huge losses running into billions of naira. The biggest scam perpetrated by this administration is that the dead refineries still employ staff, carry out promotions and engage in local and foreign training at huge costs without earning a kobo in return. With the change Buhari had promised, if it was dutifully deployed, with the PPP model, Nigeria would have attracted billions of foreign direct investments to impact on infrastructure. Take the healthcare sector for instance where the President had promised to end medical tourism the day he was sworn in. It turns out that, the President himself is the biggest culprit in the area and has patronized medical tourism for most of his tenure. Rather than attracting and retaining doctors, Nigerian doctors are leaving the country in droves to the extent that some countries have the temerity to invade our shores to recruit our doctors while the government watches. Only recently, the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) called off its protracted strike which they used to ask for improved working conditions. Yet, in terms of facilities in the hospitals, they remain “mere consulting clinics”. When he announced that he was going to sell off the presidential fleet and float a national carrier, Nigerians took him seriously. Today, his administration spends billions annually to maintain the presidential fleet. Yet, after spending billions in a bid to establish a national airline, the money has gone and there is no national airline.

44 Years On, Chrisland Schools Touching Lives Through CSR Felix Adeola

t has been 44 years since Chrisland Schools began making its mark on the Nigerian educational landscape. From its first school on Ladipo Oluwole street in Ikeja, it has spread its tentacles to establish worldclass primary and secondary schools in various parts of Lagos, Abuja, and a university in Abeokuta, Ogun State. Similarly, the school’s alumni network has grown remarkably to include bigwigs in entertainment, sports, politics, education and tech. However, beyond offering quality education for which it has gained recognition as a top-flight private school, the Executive Assistant to the Managing Director/Head, Academic Support Unit, Mr Oludotun Sotunde, said that Chrisland Schools have also impacted their communities by adopting a culture of giving back to the society. “Ours is a culture of continuous provision of support and rendering service to humanity especially to the lessprivileged through our lofty activities which are not limited to the award of scholarship to indigent candidates but also extended to the provision of food items to low-income earners in our communities,” he added.

Mr Sotunde added that Chrisland Schools also offers “support and aids to charity homes and public schools.” These Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities have continued to date despite the economic downturn. As part of continued support to public schools, Mr Sotunde said Chrisland Schools adopted Opebi Primary School in 2011 and constructed a science laboratory for the school. In April of this year, the management of Chrisland schools, staff, parents and pupils again visited Opebi Primary School to hand over the newly refurbished and furnished science laboratory, hand-wash stations among others. He also added that the school’s Interhouse Sports Competition is sponsored by Chrisland Schools Limited every year. In recognition of the adverse effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the earning power of its host community in Idimu, where its College is sited, Chrisland visited Olira, Pipeline and OPC Junction suburban communities with food items and provisions for community members on May 31, 2021. Similar gestures were extended to indigent communities in Opebi, Ikeja; Owo in Ondo State and Ikota, Ajah.

Chrisland also supports co-curricular activities among pupils of both public and private schools in Nigeria through its Winifred Awosika Scrabble Tournament for Schools (WASTFS). The tournament, which began in 2010, is aimed at developing the critical thinking, vocabulary and mental alertness of school children. The six editions so far have groomed quality Scrabble players who have gone on to win both national and international awards. The last edition of the competition, held at the Molade Okoya-Thomas Hall, Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere, had students participate from schools across the country. The top four winners went home with N250,000 (first prize), N150,000 (second prize), N100,000 (third prize) and N50,000 (fourth prize) while the fifth to tenth placed participants got N10,000 as consolation prizes. As the school continues to deliver cutting-edge educational services to meet modern-day demands, Mr Oludotun Sotunde reaffirms Chrisland Schools’ commitment to touching lives, bringing hopes to homes and contributing to the overall development of education and sports in the country.

˜ ˾ OCTOBER 23, 2021

POLITY

MultiChoice Unveils New Content Offerings Ahead of Festive Season Olaoluwakitan Babatunde

ultiChoice Nigeria unveiled a lineup of new shows, series and other content offerings coming to its DStv, GOtv and Showmax platforms ahead of the festive season and well into 2022. The content unveil was done at the 2021 MultiChoice Showcase event which took place on Thursday, 21 October 2021. The company’s Executive Head, Content and West Africa Channels, Busola Tejumola who spoke at the event alongside other company executives and partner channels’ managers, talked about the new shows coming to Africa Magic Showcase, Urban and Family, and those coming to Akwaaba Magic throughout the rest of the year and the first quarter of 2022. She also shared there will be a channel that will showcase live festivals and events across West Africa. Tope Oshunkeye, Head of Marketing, MultiChoice Nigeria, also announced the release of a new program on DStv called ‘CRIS’ (Content Recommended Intelligence System). The program will be controlled by a button on the remote that

recommends shows for viewers, based on other content they are currently consuming or their viewing patterns. This will be available on HD decoders. Oshunkeye also announced the creation of a brand new GOtv package that allows customers to experience more exciting channels. The package called ‘GOtv SUPA’ will be available on Monday, 1 November 2021 and will cost N5,500. It will have more channels like ROK, Honey TV, Nick Jr, Africa Magic Urban, WWE, and 80 + channels. Also speaking at the event, Chief Executive Officer, MultiChoice Nigeria, John Ugbe, reaffirmed MultiChoice’s commitment to making services more accessible. He said, “At MultiChoice, our customers are at the heart of everything we do, and while we pride ourselves on being the nation’s leading entertainment platform. We know that our success is hinged on the experience our customers have while interacting with our services. This has informed our deliberate shift to more convenient and responsive digital options. DStv online is a mobile-based service that gives you the same package offering that your DStv subscription offers. It makes entertainment more accessible as you can

watch and catch up on your favourite shows on the go”. Some partner channel managers also talked about new shows coming on their channels. For POP Central TV, viewers can expect shows such as ‘The Rush’, ‘Uncut with Bamteddy’, ‘Phenomenally’ and many more. For ViacomCBS group, customers can also expect the best of entertainment on MTV Base, BET Africa and Nickelodeon. The ‘Soul Train Award’ will be live on BET and the ‘Video Music Awards’ on MTV. There will also be a return for a second season of shows like ‘Inside Life With Erica’ on MTV Base as well as ‘Isono’ on BET Africa. In addition, brand new shows are coming to MultiChoice’s ondemand video platform, Showmax, this month and early next year. The first Nigerian-produced comedy series on Showmax, ‘Ghana Jollof’, will premiere on Friday, 22 October 2021, while ‘The Real Housewives of Lagos’ will premiere in January 2022. ‘The Africa Magic Viewer’s Choice Awards’ will also return next year. Most of these new shows like ‘Dilemma’, ‘Venge’ and ‘Mercy, What Next?’ have already started to air on DStv. More programming will begin on DStv and GOtv as October runs out, through the rest of the year and in the first quarter of 2022.

Expert Tells Govt to Partner Estate Developers on Housing Deficit James Sowole in Abeokuta

xpressing concerns on housing deficit in Nigeria, a real estate developer, Osokoya Morenikeji, has called on both federal and state governments to partner with private real estate developers and financial institutions, to provide good and affordable housing for the people Osokoya, who is the the Managing Director of Terrific Outfits and Celebrity City Limited, said government alone cannot meet the housing need of the people, positing that government must partner with the private sector to solve the problem of housing deficits in the country. Osokoya made the call in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, while inaugurating Celebrity Estate project in Abeokuta. According to the United Nation’s statistics, the housing deficits in Nigeria is estimated at 22 million homes, this in Osokoya’s view was alarming, revealing that in the next ten years, the number of Nigerians with no homes would have doubled. He therefore called on government at all levels to make land and finances available for real estate developers. He said, “government must provide the enabling environ-

ment for businesses to thrive. The government must formulate policies that will encourage the private sector to come into the real estate sector, provide affordable housing for the people.” Giving suggestion on how government can curb land-related crisis in the country, Osokoya said head of families that own the land must be directly involved in land purchase and ownership processes He said that the move became necessary as a measure by private sector to complement governments’ efforts to ensure peaceful resolutions in matters of land ownership disputes, sales and property development. According to the real estate giant, land-related crises have contributed significantly to the crime indices of both Lagos and Ogun states, leaving a trail of killings, fraud, threats to life and property and huge economic loss. While commending the pace-setting efforts of both the Ogun and Lagos State governments at curtailing the trend, through the passage of anti-grabbing law, he urged governments in the two states to be more decisive in dealing with promoters of land-related violence, while calling on family heads of land owners to collaborate more with government to end such violence.

Morenikeji also criticized the common culture of celebrating individuals of questionable integrity while neglecting nation builders in various areas of endeavours. He said the need to redirect the aspirations of Nigerian youths by immortalizing credible achievers gave birth to the concept of the Celebrity Estate which aims to name its streets, gardens, parks and recreation centres after exemplary Nigerians. The Estate, covering over 1000 acres within Arepo and Ishawo axis, has a long list of Nigerian legends, both living and deceased, whose achievements in various fields such as sports, entrepreneurship, education, industrialisation, politics, and security services, among others, are seen as capable of inspiring human capacities development in profitable ventures and redirecting the energies of the youths from criminal activities. Present at the event were Dr. Abayomi Aina, head of Arugboodo,/Aboki and Lawani family of Arepo And Ishawo Village, Oke-Oko Via Ikorodu, Shagamu Local Government Area, Ogun State; Mr. Kareem Enifeni, the family secretary, Mr. Sanya Bada, the family general youth chairman and Chief David Olalekan Orisan Baale of Ishawo land and environ.. Barrister Patience Okoh, Celebrity City legal adviser, and Mr. Ralph Nwafor, Celebrity City Ltd project director and other dignitaries.

PHOTO NEWS

L-R: Head of Sales, Godrej West Africa, Emeka Okeke; Winner of the Big Brother Naija Season 6 reality show, Hazel Oyeye Onou a.k.a Whitemoney, representing Ikechukwu Sunday a.k.a Cross; and Head of Marketing, Godrej West Africa, Ayodele Otujinrin during the cheque presentation event to the winners of the Darling Hair Big Brother House tasks that took place during the course of the show, recently in Lagos

L-R: Divisional CEO, Interswitch Financial Inclusion Services (IFIS), Titilola Shogaolu; Quickteller Agent, Eti-Osa, Lagos, Oladimeji Kazeem and Group Head, Business Development, Interswitch Financial Service, Rosemary Aimankhu during the 2021 Quickteller Paypoint customer service week in Lagos recently

L-R: Vice-Chair,Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Lagos Chapter, Mrs. Abiye Tam-George; Chairman, NBA, Lagos Branch, Mr. Ikechukwu Uwanna; Former Lagos State Attorney /Lead Speaker, Mr. Olasupo Shasore (SAN); Human Rights Lawyer and Mental Health Advocate, Mr. Timothy Asobele Dare and Prof. Bankole Shodipo, at the Wife of Ogun State Governor, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun (right) and Ogun Girl child of the year, Miss National dialogue with stakeholders on a frantic call for Institutional Reforms and Respect for Human Rights Irechukwu Rebecca, SS3 Student of Remo Divisional high school during the commemoration of organised by NBA Lagos Branch in Lagos yesterday PHOTO: ETOP UKUTT 2021 International Girl Child Day held in Abeokuta...recently

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾OCTOBER 23, 2021

POLITY

Ambassador Ranga: Western Countries Must End Sanctions against Zimbabwe The Zimbabwean envoy to Nigeria, Ambassador Maxwell Ranga tells select journalists that it was time to remove the sanctions imposed on his country 20 years ago by the western world. Michael Olugbode brings the excerpts:

our Excellency, for many years now, your country, Zimbabwe, has been under sanctions from the European Union and the United States of America. For those who may not know, why were the sanctions imposed on Zimbabwe? The rationale for the imposition of sanctions 20 years ago was primarily given as ‘concern for rule of law and human rights violations and concern at the overall state of governance in Zimbabwe’. The decision by western governments to isolate Zimbabwe both diplomatically and economically was triggered by the implementation of Zimbabwe’s Fast Track Land Reform Programme in 2000. In 2001, the United States imposed the Zimbabwe Democracy and Economic Recovery Act (ZIDERA). In 2002, the European Union also imposed sanctions on Zimbabwe. Both sets of sanctions have been renewed at the beginning of every year since that time. The most recent renewal occurred in February 2021 by the European Union and in March 2021 by the United States. In addition to ZIDERA, the United States issued a Presidential Executive Order in 2003, declaring “a national emergency” and characterising the “actions and policies of certain members of the Government of Zimbabwe” as constituting an “unusual and extraordinary threat to the foreign policy of the United States.” The world has long been told that these sanctions were mainly targeted at a few individuals accused of human rights violations.We were also told that the sanctions had no real impact on economic development or on the lives of ordinary Zimbabweans. In your experience, what has been the impact of these sanctions? Contrary to claims that the sanctions are “targeted” at a few individuals, the coercive measures continue to have a markedly negative impact beyond the so-called “targeted” few. Sanctions have seriously undermined Zimbabwe’s credibility, its national image, its ability to engage and interact and the ability of Zimbabwean companies, small, medium and large, to trade and transact beyond its borders. The cumulative effect of 20 years of sanctions has been immense, impacting very negatively on all sectors of the Zimbabwean economy and its people, and severely undermining progress towards the attainment of the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The sanctions have resulted in the suspension of balance of payments support; interception and/or seizure of mineral export revenues; reduced access to international markets; disruption of diaspora remittances to Zimbabwe; an estimated US$21 billion has been lost in potential revenue over the 20 years of isolation; the damaging negative publicity about Zimbabwe has resulted in low tourist arrivals to the country. The list of negative impacts of sanctions is long and these are just some of the few challenges we faced as a country. You say that the sanctions have caused untold suffering

to ordinary Zimbabweans and hampered the Government’s development agenda. However, they have been in place for about 20 years now. In that time, what has the Government of Zimbabwe done to ensure the removal of these sanctions? Since the advent of the Second Republic, in November 2017, the Government of President E.D. Mnangagwa has made a sustained and serious effort to introduce deep-rooted and wide-ranging economic, political and legislative reforms. These reforms are aimed at correcting past errors and to set the country on a new trajectory towards more fully inclusive, sustained economic growth and development, to further entrench democracy, good governance and rule of law, and to improve the lives and livelihoods of all who have made Zimbabwe their home. This development and reform agenda by the Government of the Republic of Zimbabwe would have been faster and broader had it not been for the constraints and impediments caused by the gruelling sanctions. Despite all the sanctions and negative publicity, Zimbabwe is still a force to reckon with in global politics, particularly on the African continent. Apart from SADC countries, why are there no other African countries making noise about lifting sanctions on Zimbabwe? It would be unfair and incorrect to say that there are no other African countries making noise about lifting sanctions against Ranga Zimbabwe. Africa as a collective, under the Umbrella of the African Union has made a loud and united call for the immeditions against Zimbabwe. Nigeria, within the context of the African ate and unconditional removal of the illegal sanctions against Union, is fully supportive of this campaign as it has always been Zimbabwe. Several Heads of State and Government have used when it comes to Zimbabwe. Nigeria gave us financial and moral various platforms, including at the United Nations General Assupport during our struggle for independence and has remained sembly to make the call for the removal of sanctions against Zim- a very strong supporter of Zimbabwe. Their support is unquesbabwe. We feel the full support of our African brothers in this tionable. regard. As regards to SADC, the region has been unequivocal, uncompromising, and unrelenting in its call for the removal of Given that there was a transition of power, what is the sanctions against Zimbabwe because the impact of the sanctions new Government doing to re-engage with estranged nais felt more keenly within the region, particularly in the neightions, especially the European Union, the United States and bouring countries. SADC has had to bear with us, the burden of the United Kingdom? the sanctions due to their proximity to Zimbabwe. Our cries are The Government of Zimbabwe, under the leadership of His the loudest as we are the most affected. The call for the removal Excellency President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, has of sanctions against Zimbabwe has not only been limited to our made engagement and re-engagement a centrepiece of its foreign African brothers and sisters. Several friendly nations across the policy. The President always says that we should be a friend to all world including China and others who appreciate the efforts the and enemy to none. In fact, the theme of our campaign this year Government of Zimbabwe have made towards reconciliation is, “Friend to All, Enemy to None: Forging Ahead and Enhancing and re-engagement and who believe, like us that the sanctions Innovation and Productivity in Adversity of Sanctions.” As I are unjustified and irrelevant to the situation prevailing in stated earlier, the Government of Zimbabwe has made several Zimbabwe, have also called for their removal. wide-ranging economic, political and legislative reforms for the betterment of society and as a way to address concerns raised Has the Nigerian Government supported Zimbabwe in by some of these countries who placed sanctions on Zimbabwe. the anti-sanctions campaign? In addition, the Zimbabwe Government has opened dialogue Again, it would be unfair to single out Nigeria. I have already with these countries to see where we can reason together and stated that the African Union is fully behind the calls to lift sancre-establish the cordial relations we once enjoyed.

Gordon Brown, Chinelo Anohu, Others: Vaccine Hoarding Hurting Africa

ormer Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Gordon Brown and Senior Director of the African Investment Forum, African Development Bank’s flagship investment platform, Chinelo Anohu, have identified tokenism and nationalism as the banes of investments and Covid-19 vaccination in Africa. They bared their minds at the “Edinburgh Futures Conversations: The Future Economy”, a virtual conference organised by the University of Edinburgh, Scotland, UK. Brown, who said that poor vaccination against Covid-19 in Africa had gravely affected the continent’s economy, said there were “four powers that are holding the vaccines at the moment - Britain, Canada, America, and the European Union”, and urged them to “get round the table, and agree that they are going to airlift the vaccines very quickly month by month”. However, Anohu in her part, said that while it would be good for Africa to be given vaccines, the continent needed more of partnerships and investments to stand on its feet. She noted that it would be far more beneficial for the people of the continent to take their future into their own hands. “I think there needs to be a paradigm shift from the way we look at collaboration. Africa is increasingly getting tired of asking for aid when in all honesty we can trade. And that is what we’re now looking to provide at the African Investment Forum, a flagship initiative of the Africa Development Bank, where both domestic and International investors who are looking to invest for profit while fulfilling a need are mobilized to finance projects. “Yes, there is a moral obligation to be our brother’s keeper, but whether we are doing that or not is playing out in this matter of vaccine equity. So, what you’re seeing now

Brown and Chinelo on the continent is a realisation that you have an option not to wait to be given”. Anohu said Africa should be supported in its plan for the future. “A couple of years ago, it was Ebola ravaging the continent. Now it is Covid-19. There may be something else in the future. How do we then position Africa to very clearly respond to their own needs without a dependence on aid? “So, rather than looking to be given vaccines developed in those labs outside Africa by people, some of whom are of African descent, who did not have infrastructure to do it on the continent, we should be looking at setting up these vaccine plants on the continent”, she added. On how vaccine hoarding and nationalism impact

negatively on investments and global economies, Brown said: “Nationalism is the dominant ideology of the age. It means there is a distinction between patriotism, which is love of your country and nationalism, which is an ‘us versus them’ ideology. “So, nationalism as it is experienced across the world, not patriotism, is actually a danger to the economic growth of the world and of course its very opposite of what we need, which is cooperation to deal with the issues in hand. “The IMF (International Monetary Fund) is now ineffective, the World Bank is now ineffective, the World Trade Organisation is neutered, and the World Health Organisation is blamed rather than supported when it does things that are necessary. The international institutions lose that focus and coordination of economic policy is impossible. “And I think we have got to be more aware that whether it is Russia first or America first or China first or Japan first or Hungary first or Turkey first or even Britain first or Scotland first, that these are movements affecting public policy at the moment. “If you are going to have the economic cooperation based on the interdependence that we are talking about, you are going to take nationalism head on”. The former Prime Minister regretted that as a consequence of vaccine stockpiling and hoarding by the developed world, Africa was witnessing poor growth rate, debt rise, migration increase, little social protection, while divergence between rich and poor had replaced convergence as the main theme of this decade.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ APRIL 24, 2011

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WEEKLY PULL-OUT

PAUL ONUACHU

Last Train Out of Genk?

23. 10.2021

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MORE THAN A BRAGGING RIGHT PAGE. 29

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 23, 2021

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Paul Onuachu

Either one of those clubs could be an upgrade for Onuachu, who would want such a move. At Spurs, he might have to work harder than anywhere to dislodge Kane or even to play alongside the England captain. David Moyes has responded to speculation linking West Ham United with Onuachu. West Ham were heavily linked with huge 6ft 7in Nigerian forward during the summer window. And now ironically, West Ham come faceto-face with the 27-year-old when he leads the line for Genk in the Europa League clash at the London Stadium on Thursday night. The player was said to have been ready to sign for the Hammers too according to All Nigeria Soccer. But in the end, reports claimed Moyes elected not to sign the man dubbed the ‘Nigerian Peter Crouch’, or indeed any striker, saying the players he wanted were not available. There has been more speculation recently that West Ham may try and sign Onuachu in January with Atletico Madrid also linked. But speaking ahead of the game against Genk, Moyes denied ever having any interest in the striker. “I don’t want to disappoint you in any way,” Moyes told the Belgian journalist who asked him about West Ham’s interest in Onuachu. “But he wasn’t someone we really had in any consideration. “Quite often at West Ham we are linked with so many players. “I appreciate the player because I’ve watched him recently watching the games, but he wasn’t one of our targets planned for the summer time.”

Paul Onuachu glances past an opponent

Last Train Out of Genk? That Paul Onuachu did not dump Racing Genk at the end of last season still could not be fathomed despite several top European clubs making inquiries for the 33 league-goal poacher.The Belgian Pro League Player of theYear and Golden Boot winner has again started from where he left off last season-scoring 11 goals in 15 appearances for Genk so far this term, making suitors to start prowling again for a winter transfer move

ith Borussia Dortmund not sure of being able to keep Erling Haaland, the German club is turning their attention to Super Eagles striker,

Paul Onuachu. The most prominent clubs in Europe are after the Norwegian goal machine, and the German side may be looking in the direction of one of Nigeria’s finest to replace him. Dortmund have asked Belgian FA Cup winners, KRC Genk regarding Nigerian forward. The eight-time German league champions have been linked with a host of strikers to fill the youngster’s shoes, including Fiorentina’s Dusan Vlahovic, Red Bull Salzburg star, Karim Adeyemi and Ajax forward, Sebastian Haller. Onuachu’s name has also popped up among the strikers interesting Dortmund after the Nigerian ace’s blistering start to the 2021-22 season. After scoring 35 goals in all competitions last season, Onuachu has found the back of the net 11 times in 15 games so far for Racing. The tall hitman, Nigeria’s most prolific goal-

scorer in Europe this season, would likely jump at the chance to sign for Dortmund, even if his preferred destination is the English Premier League. Currently valued at €22 million by Transfermarkt, Onuachu has a contract with Genk that runs until the summer of 2024. According to the Daily Mail, Tottenham are the latest club to show an interest in Genk’s Onuachu. The Nigerian is courting attention from other big sides such as Southampton, Atletico Madrid and West Ham United, making this chase more interesting. Onuachu is expected to leave Genk soon, possibly in the January window, as he seeks the next step into his promising career. Forging his reputation as a top-draw striker at a rather later stage than most, the 27-year-old Nigerian has posted terrific goalscoring numbers in the last 18 months. His numbers have caught the attention of several sides, who are keen on recruiting him for his overall qualities as a centre-forward. Onuachu offers plenty more than just being a fine finisher. At 6ft 7Iin, his physical presence

may be considered an asset, particularly from set-pieces, while he has displayed improved quality in hold-up play. Recently the Nigerian switched representatives, and now part of Zagreb based agency Niagara Sports, run by former Croatian footballer Andy Bara. The change of representation might indicate the striker’s desire to depart Genk in the next window as he seeks to further his career. Niagara Sports also represents stars such as Alvaro Morata, Dani Olmo and Jonathan Ikone, among others. While there’s no shortage of interest, Tottenham are the latest to join the chase for the striker. Spurs are interested in bringing a viable backup for Harry Kane, who could still depart next summer. However, as things stand, Spurs do not have a player to cover for the England captain and are keen on solving the issue. Elsewhere, Atletico Madrid are also looking at the possibility of bringing the striker to La Liga, as Diego Simeone looks to add a younger centre-forward. In recent weeks, the Spanish champions have stepped up their pursuit of the Genk striker, which could become a problem for Premier League sides if they are serious.

Speaking to Genk’s official YouTube page, Onuachu said: “For me you never know what the future holds but I think scoring a lot of goals this season for KRC Genk and of course my career, it is going to be one of the most important periods for me. “It is going to be difficult to say I’m going to repeat it where I am going but I think the players we have in this team really make all this possible for me, but like I said earlier, you don’t know what the future holds. “As it is now I think I’m really happy for the figure I have in the league and of course for KRC Genk. “I struggled a bit when I arrived here. At the start of the season, I said to myself that I had to push myself more and give more. “I am proud of myself and my team, and I am happy to have the support of my companion, who is always behind me.” The big striker, however, refuses to hide his affection for English Premier League giants Arsenal. “Arsenal is the club of my dreams,” Onuachu continued. “It is the club that I support, that I like to watch, and whose style of play I like. “However, I am still in Belgium, and I am still a player of Genk.” Meanwhile, the Nigerian international might not be taking penalties for his team Racing Genk anymore after missing three of his last four for the club, the latest one being in a 2-0 loss to Charleroi in the Belgium Jupiler Pro League. With the hosts leading by a solitary goal Genk were awarded a penalty with nine minutes to go. Onuachu failed to find the target but he was given a lifeline to make things right when the officials adjudged the goalkeeper had moved from his line early, but the Super Eagle still missed. It was a costly mistake as his team conceded a second goal. On September 26, the 27-year-old also missed his penalty, but it mattered less as Genk defeated RFC Seraing 3-0. Last season, he scored 11 penalties, however, after a recent miss, things are bound to change at the club. “Last year we applauded Paul for his penalties, he was almost a certainty of success. But now...” Coach John van den Brom told Eleven Sports. “He had already missed one and is now doing so twice. Three of his four penalties failed. We have to think about whether it is time to make someone else responsible for the penalties.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 23, 2021

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Can Man Utd Bounce Back with Liverpool Visit? Premiership Table

The two most successful English teams-Manchester United and Liverpool would be going head-to-head tomorrow in the Premier League in what no doubt is the headline fixture of the weekend.Both sides are coming to this fixture with contrasting results in the league.WhileThe Reds would be boosted by their 5-0 walloping of Burnley,The Red Devils would need to put behind their 4-2 loss to Leicester City as another loss would not only further dent their ambition of a first post Alex Ferguson’s league title but a loss would further question Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s ability to lead United to promise land. Interestingly, both sides recorded a 3-2-win midweek, in their Champions League campaign, a result which should lift the spirit of United going into tomorrow’s encounter

Chelsea Liverpool Man City Brighton Tottenham Man Utd West Ham Everton Arsenal Brentford Wolves Leicester Aston Villa Crystal Palace Watford Leeds Southampton Burnley Newcastle Norwich

8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8

13 16 13 3 -3 6 5 4 -3 3 0 0 -10 -3 0 -7 -5 -8 -9 -14

19 18 17 15 15 14 14 14 14 12 12 12 10 7 12 6 4 3 3 2

PREMIER LEAGUE TODAY

Chelsea v Norwich City