SATURDAY 3RD DECEMBER 2022

Petrol Scarcity Lingers, NLC Bemoans Hardship, Rebukes FG Black market booms at N400 per litre in Lagos, Abuja Emmanuel Addeh and Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja Nationwide petrol scarcity worsened yesterday, with the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC)

and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) describing the prolonged product shortages as unacceptable and intolerable.

The situation is continuing despite assurances by the Nigerian

National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) that the country has enough fuel in stock to last over

a month.

Since February this year when some operators imported adulterated petrol into the country, most parts of the country have not had stable supply of the product.

However, the problem has recently spread to Lagos where a litre of petrol currently sells for as much as N280 in some petrol stations and as much as N400 per litre on the black market.

Petrol queues are growing by the day across Nigeria. There is no part of the country where the price of this vital commodity has Continued on page 5

Gunmen Attack Mosque in Ughelli, Kidnap Imam, Injure 11 Worshippers... Page 6 Saturday 3 December, 2022 Vol 27. No 10098

www.thisdaylive.com TR

UT H

& RE A S O

N

N250

Result Transmission: INEC Seeks NCC’s Help in Poor Network Areas Collection of PVCs commences December 12

Bennett Oghifo, Chuks Okocha and Gboyega Akinsanmi

L-R: Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Achebe; Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State; former Governor of old Anambra State, Jim Nwobodo and Prof. Uche Azikiwe, wife of late Nnamdi Azikiwe, Nigeria's first President, during the inauguration of Nnamdi Azikiwe Centre, Enugu, conceived and executed by the Ugwuanyi administration to immortalise the great Zik of Africa… yesterday.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is working with the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to resolve network issues that may arise in Continued on page 5

FG Pressures Oil-producing States to Account for Derivation Earnings Says N625bn disbursed to them in 2 years Delta State to Buhari: Okowa not among stealing governors Deji Elumoye in Abuja, Omon-Julius Onabu in Asaba and Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt In a step apparently aimed at ensuring that governors of oil-producing states account for the 13 per cent derivation money disbursed to them, the Presidency yesterday revealed that the nine states in the club

received N625.43 billion from derivation, subsidy, and SURE-P refunds, from the Federation Account in the last two years.

On the same day, the Delta State Government dissociated Governor Ifeanyi Okowa from the allegation by President Muhammadu Buhari last Thursday that some governors Continued on page 5

Dogara's Group Adopts Atiku for 2023... Page 8

GLO FESTIVAL OF JOY… L-R: Mariam Imam of the National Lottery Regulatory Commission; DG, National Council for Arts and Culture, Otunba Olusegun Runsewe; House winner in Glo Festival of Joy Promo, Chukwu Reuben Okorie; Globacom’s Regional Manager, Kemi Kaka; and Banji Ojo of the Nigerian Communications Commission, at the presentation of a 3-bedroom apartment by Globacom to Okorie in Abuja ...yesterday.

2

SATURDAY DECEMBER 3, 2022 • T H I S D AY

SATURDAY DECEMBER 3, 2022 • T H I S D AY

3

4

SATURDAY DECEMBER 3, 2022 • T H I S D AY

5

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2022 • T H I S D AY, T H E S AT U R D AY N E W S PA P E R

PAGE FIVE FG PRESSURES OIL-PRODUCING STATES TO ACCOUNT FOR DERIVATION EARNINGS were involved in diverting local government funds, saying Okowa does not tamper with such funds.

The oil-producing states that received the derivation, subsidy and SURE-P refunds are Abia, Akwa-Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, Imo, Ondo and Rivers.

Recall that the Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, had alleged that the oil-producing states had refused to disclose payments made to them by the federal government for the outstanding 13 per cent derivation.

A statement signed by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, and titled, “Oil derivation, subsidy and SURE-P refunds: Nine oil producing states received N625.43 billion in two years; N1.1trn still outstanding,” noted that the Buhari-led regime

would continue to render equal service to all the states regardless of affiliation.

It stated that an acknowledgment of the payments

by Wike and the others “is not out of place.”

According to the statement, “data obtained from the Federation Account Department, Office of the Accountant General of the Federation, shows that a total of N477.2 billion was released to the nine states as refund of the 13 per cent derivation fund on withdrawal from Excess Crude Account (ECA) without deducting derivation from 2004 to 2019, leaving an outstanding balance of N287.04 billion.

"The States also got N64.8 billion as refund of the 13 per cent derivation fund on deductions made by NNPC without payment of derivation

to oil producing states from 1999 to December, 2021. The benefitting states still have an outstanding balance of N860.59 billion windfall from the refunds, which was approved by President Muhammadu Buhari.”

The Presidency stated further: “Under withdrawal from ECA without deducting 13 per cent derivation from 2004 to 2019, Abia State received N4.8 billion with outstanding sum of N2.8 billion; Akwa-Ibom received N128 billion with outstanding sum of N77 billion; Bayelsa with N92.2 billion, leaving an outstanding of N55 billion.

“Cross River got a refund N1.3 billion with a balance N792 million; Delta State received N110 billion, leaving a balance of N66.2 billion; Edo State received N11.3 billion, with a balance of N6.8 billion; Imo State, N5.5 billion, with an outstanding sum of N3.3

billion; Ondo State, N19.4 billion with an outstanding sum of N11.7 billion while Rivers State was paid N103.6 billion, with an outstanding balance of N62.3 billion.”

Shehu continues: “The States were paid in eight installments between October 2, 2021 and January 11, 2022, while the ninth to 12th instalments are still outstanding.

"On the 13 per cent derivation fund on deductions made

by NNPC without payment of derivation, the nine oil producing States were paid in three instalments this year, with the remaining 17 instalments outstanding.

"Under this category, Abia State received N1.1 billion, Akwa-Ibom, N15 billion, Bayelsa, N11.6 billion, Cross River, N432 million, Delta State, N14.8 billion, Edo State, N2.2 billion, Imo State, N2.9,

PETROL SCARCITY LINGERS, NLC BEMOANS HARDSHIP, REBUKES FG not gone up astronomically. The scarcity has led to a boom in the black market.

As queues lengthen across the country, the authorities are insisting that there is fuel stock that could last the country for 34 days, stressing that in spite of rumours of a planned price increase, the government was not considering hiking the amount Nigerians get the product.

“The authority wishes to inform the general public that the federal government has no intention of increasing the price of petrol during this period. The NNPC Limited has imported PMS with current stock levels sufficient for 34 days,” the NMDPRA stressed.

While many fuel stations remained shut in Abuja yesterday for lack of the product, the NNPC stations still selling the product have witnessed queues stretching over two kilometres at every point.

At the outskirts, the few petrol stations which were selling for as much as N350 to N400 per litre, cause long queues, with motorists spending long man-hours on the fuel lines.

Chaotic scenes were seen at Conoil and Total filling stations located at the Central Business District of Abuja, as motorists tried to gain entrance to the stations without having to stay on the long queues.

The NNPC and the NMDPRA have this year enunciated several reasons for the scarcity experienced in several parts of the country, ranging from the importation of bad fuel in February to disruption caused by the Salah festivities in June to the floods in Lokoja and recently to the bad roads in Lagos.

“The recent queues in Lagos are largely due to ongoing

road infrastructure projects around Apapa and access road challenges in some parts of Lagos depots,” Executive Vice President, Downstream, NNPC, Adeyemi Adetunji, said during the week.

Several filling stations, including the NNPC mega station in zone 1, Conoil and Total, opposite the headquarters of the NNPC in Abuja, had long queues, causing traffic jams in the capital city.

In addition, black marketers have also taken advantage of the situation, selling their wares to interested motorists for as high as N4,000 for a 10-litre container, that is about N400 per litre in the streets.

But in a statement jointly signed by the National President of the NLC, Ayuba Wabba and President Trade Union Congress (TUC), Festus Osifo, the leadership of the unions said they were seriously bewildered and disturbed by the “persistent shortage and uncontrollable” prices that players in the downstream sector of the petroleum industry were meting out to Nigerians.

The NLC and TUC stated that persistent shortages of petrol in the country have become a source of pain to the Nigerians, noting that the scarcity has led not just to long avoidable queues, adulteration of the product by some unscrupulous elements; exploitation of consumers but has turned fuel stations to traffic menace.

“All these have tragic consequences for the Nigerian people and debilitating effects on the health of the economy which itself is not in a good state,” the unions added.

They alleged that the shortage was deliberately foisted by players in the downstream sector in order

to hike the price far above the government approved threshold.

Maintaining that it is an added problem when non-state actors begin to arrogate to themselves the power to determine the price of a litre of fuel far above the rate pegged by government in the current subsidy regime, the unions pointed out that the Nigerian masses were being defrauded.

“The Nigerian people and tax payers currently expend several trillions of Naira annually to subsidise petrol. The same people cannot be exploited and made to pay over N240 per litre when the current ex-depot price is currently fixed at N148.19 per litre. The opportunity cost of the subsidy payment is enormous and yet the benefit of the subsidy regime is gradually being eroded.

“No country develops when its people are subjected to perennial hardship and its industries are shackled by unnecessary chains of miseries,” the NLC and TUC noted.

According to both unions, it is even more disturbing that the government is equally demonstrating a high level of culpability in the unwholesome situation by its silence and unwillingness to frontally and publicly address the harrowing experiences of Nigeria in the current situation.

They insisted that no concerned and responsive government would bury its head in the sand like the proverbial ostrich while the citizens are being brutally exploited.

For the records, the TUC and NLC stated that no private individuals or companies are importing a litre of petrol into this country, stating that all products are imported by the government.

Furthermore, they explained that there is no record whatsoever that the agency of government that is importing the products has added a kobo to the price it sells the products to the marketers.

“We are strongly worried that leaving our energy security and sovereignty in the hands of unscrupulous capitalists and their collaborators will further plunge this nation into the economic abyss we are working hard to avoid.

“The labour centres therefore demand of the federal government an end to the avoidable, unnecessary, crippling and pain-inducing fuel shortages and unapproved price hike of up to N240 in the country.

“No excuse is good enough to cripple the country. If there are challenges, they should be fixed; we have a government in power to fix challenges not to make excuses,” the unions said.

The unions stated that they were ready and willing to engage the federal government and assist in all ways possible to overcome the country's present challenges.

They cautioned that the unions will not fold their arms and allow the Nigerian people to be taken for granted as the government seems to be manifestly doing on various crucial national issues.

“Regulatory and law enforcement agencies should do more to protect the larger Nigeria society from exploitation,” the unions noted.

The National Public Relations Officer, Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), Chief Ukadike Chinedu, had said that its members who own the bulk of the filling stations across the country, were now subjected to purchasing petrol for about N220 per litre.

billion, Ondo State, N3.7 billion, and Rivers State, N12.8 billion.

"Meanwhile, the benefitting states shared N9.2 billion in three instalments in April, August and November 2022 as refunds on the 13 per cent derivation exchange rate differential on withdrawal from the ECA. "The three largest benefitting States were Akwa Ibom (N1.6 billion), Delta State (N1.4 billion) and Rivers State (N1.32 billion).

"Similarly, all the nine states received N4.7 billion each, totaling N42.34 billion as refunds on withdrawals for subsidy and SURE-P from 2009 to 2015.

"The refund, which is for all the states and local government councils, was paid on 10th November, 2022.

"The Federation Account also paid N3.52 billion each as refund to local government councils on withdrawals for subsidy and SURE-P from 2009 to 2015 on the same date in November.”

The statement emphasised that President Buhari considers it a matter of honour and decency that debts owed to states or anyone for that matter be repaid, and in time without regards to their partisan political affiliations.

It adds: The President will continue to render equal service to all the states of the federation…

The refunds to the oil producing states will continue."

The 13 per cent derivation payments became a controversial issue after comments by Wike, alleging that the oil-producing states had refused to disclose their own shares after the federal government released the money.

“Let me say it for the first time. So many people asked me: ‘where is he getting this money’? Let me say it. I want, through the Attorney-General of the Federation, to thank Mr. President. Monies that were not paid to the Niger Delta states since 1999 - the 13 per cent deductions - monies that were not paid, Mr. President approved and paid all of us from the Niger Delta states.

And for me, it would be unfair not to tell the public,” Wike said at a project commissioning last month.

After the disclosure, each of the governors issued a statement to set records straight and explained how their derivation funds were spent.

Delta to Buhari: Okowa Not Among 'Pilfering' Governors

Delta State Government yesterday dissociated Governor Okowa from the allegation by President Buhari that some governors were involved in diverting local government funds.

The Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Olisa Ifeajika, at

RESULT TRANSMISSION: INEC SEEKS NCC’S HELP IN POOR NETWORK AREAS poor network areas over uploading of results for the 2023 elections.

The election umpire also announced yesterday that citizens who participated in the last voters’ registration exercise ahead of the 2023 general elections would be able to collect their Permanent Voters Cards from December 12, 2022.

The Chairman of the Commission, Mahmood Yakubu, disclosed the overture to the NCC yesterday during a one-day strategic interactive session with journalists in Lagos.

The proposition to NCC follows concerns raised by Nigerians on the use of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) in areas with poor networks.

Yakubu said the commission would meet with the NCC next Tuesday to discuss mobile network issues that may affect transmission of results in such areas.

He added that Nigerians have nothing to worry about regarding the effectiveness of

result transmission during the 2023 elections using the BVAS. Yakubu said: “INEC has identified blind spots (where there is poor or no network) and we are working to make sure there won’t be any problem.

“We are working with the NCC to make sure we transmit from blind spots. They are the network regulators and they will be very vital to that.

“We are making sure and working hard so that we transmit freely all around the country.”

In his remarks, Festus Okoye, INEC National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, appealed to the media to continue to assist the commission to fight misinformation.

Okoye said with 84 days to the general election, the spread of fake news and misinformation on the electoral process had become worrisome.

He said there is a need for the media to assist in tackling

the menace of false information for a successful general election in 2023.

Collection of PVCs Commences December 12

In a related development, INEC announced yesterday that citizens who participated in the voters’ registration exercise ahead of the 2023 general elections would be able to collect their Permanent Voters Cards from December 12, 2022.

According to the election umpire, the Commission met and deliberated on a number of issues, including the dates for the collection of Permanent Voters Cards nationwide.

The retreat was held in Lagos with all the Administrative Secretaries and Resident Electoral Commissioners from the 36 States of the Federation and the Federal Capital Territory from November 28 to December 2, 2022. At the retreat, the Commission finalised the procedure, as well as the

timetable for the collection of PVCs. The statement by Okoye partly reads, “Consequently, the Commission has fixed Monday 12 December 2022 to Sunday 22 January 2023 as the dates for the collection of PVCs in all the 774 Local Government Offices of the Commission throughout the Federation.

“The Commission also resolved to devolve PVC collection to the 8,809 Registration Areas/Wards from Friday 6th to Sunday 15th January 2023. Those that are unable to collect their PVCs at the local government offices of the Commission can do so at the Registration Areas/Electoral Wards. After the 15th of January 2023, the exercise will revert to the Local Government Offices of the Commission until January 22, 2023.

“All eligible and valid registrants can collect their PVCs from 9.00 am to 3.00 pm daily, including Saturdays and Sundays.

“All the RECs and Electoral Officers have been directed to convene a meeting with the critical stakeholders in their States and Local Government Areas, including traditional and religious leaders, civil society groups, communitybased organisations and the media to brief them on the modalities for the collection of the PVCs in order to sensitise the public and ensure seamless exercise.

“Similarly, RECs and EOs have also been directed to set up help desks to assist registrants with complaints about their PVCs or with the PVC collection procedure for immediate redress.

“The Commission appreciates the patience and understanding of Nigerians, especially those who registered as voters or applied for transfer/replacement of their cards from January to July 2022.

In making the cards available for collection, the Commission is also working to ensure that the process is simple and hitch-free for Nigerians.”

a news conference in Asaba said Okowa’s administration had remained transparent and accountable to the people and would never be counted among governors (if any) that steal local government funds.

He stated that in case the President had information that such pilfering happened in some states, “the reverse is the case in Delta, where rather than touch the funds of local governments, the governor gives them nothing less than N300 million monthly to augment their salaries and pension bills, and remain afloat.”

Ifeajika said: “I want to say that Mr. President, as one who has all the information about issues in the country, knows the governors who fall into that category of the so-called 'thieves' he was referring to.

"We all know that our own Governor, Senator (Dr.) Ifeanyi Okowa, does not belong there.

He was one of the first governors, if not the first, to embrace local government autonomy when it was agreed on, just as he did with the judiciary and the legislature.

"He went as far as getting legislation to grant autonomy to the legislature and the judiciary. He allowed them to run autonomously. And, for a man, who allowed these organs of government to have autonomy, he cannot have anything to do with funds belonging to the local governments.

"You are also aware that the government of Sen. (Dr.) Ifeanyi Okowa recently released N5 billion for pension arrears; N2.5 billion of that was a grant to the local government for payment of pensions.

"It is a grant to the local government; they are not going to pay. The governor did that because the local governments have to fund their activities, pay their teachers and healthcare workers.”

Expose Pilfering Govs, Wike, Ortom Dare Buhari

Governor Wike has also challenged President Buhari to make public governors of various states that dip their hands into local government funds received from the Federation Account.

Similarly, Governor Samuel Ortom of Benue State called on Buhari to name the governors misappropriating council funds.

Wike, who disassociated himself from recent accusation by President Buhari that governors have continued to deliberately deplete remittances released to various councils in their states, claimed he had never tampered with local government funds.

The Rivers State governor, reacted yesterday, at the inauguration of Mgbuosimini Ring and Internal Roads in Rumueme, Obio-Akpor Local Government Area of the state.

Wike said the generalisation done by President Buhari was unfair, while urging him (Buhari) as a true leader to tell Nigerians those governors pilfering council funds.

"You said the governors are taking local government funds.

I want to say in the name of almighty God, I have never touched local government funds one day.

"I have never and I have no reason to do that. So, Mr. President, tell us who those people are. You know them, tell us. It is not good to make class defamation of governors.

Please, I am not one of those governors.

"So, Mr. President, please, spare me, tell Nigerians that the Integrity Governors are not part of them. We have integrity. And do us a favour to announce all those states that are taking local government money because you have the records."

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾DECEMBER 3, 2022

6

NEWS

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

Gunmen Attack Delta Mosque, Kidnap Imam, Injure 11 Worshippers Sylvester Idowu inWarri Gunmen in the early hours of yesterday attacked a mosque in Ughelli, Delta State, leaving

about 11 worshippers injured.

It was learnt that a deputy Imam, simply identified as Mallam Muhammadu Sani, was abducted by the armed

Tension as Monarch is Abducted in Ondo Fidelis David in Akure Suspected gun-wielding kidnappers have abducted Oba Clement Jimoh Olukotun, the Oloso of Oso, at Ajowa- Akoko, in Akoko North-West Local Government Area of Ondo State.

It was gathered yesterday that the abductors besieged the monarch’s residence around 10.15p.m. on Thursday, and whisked the traditional ruler away to an unknown destination.

A family source revealed via a telephone conversation that the gunmen shot sporadically and destroyed the monarch’s main door to gain access into his residential building before perpetrating the act.

The source said upon getting to the residence, the gunmen knocked the door and realising that the occupants were not ready to yield to their request to willingly succumb, they shot at the main door and destroyed it completely.

He added that the gunshot pellets were said to have pierced the door and wall into the living room, but said none of the occupants was hit or injured.

The source stated that the intensity of the gunshots had terrified the residents of the border town as none of them could emerge from their residences for a rescue mission.

His words: “When they came, they surrounded the building and started ordering the monarch and other occupants to open the door and surrender willingly, but nobody answered. At this point, they started shooting. They destroyed the main door and entered. They terrorised Kabiyesi and his family members before dragging him out and taking him away. None of the family members had been contacted, but we knew they were kidnappers.”

When contacted the Police Public Relations Officer, Ondo State Command, Mrs. Funmilayo Odunlami, confirmed the development.

She said, “it is true but the details of the incident is still not clear, however, police from the Divisional Police at Oke-Agbe, headquarters of Akoko Northwest Local Government Area of Ondo State, have been deployed in the town to launch investigation into the incident,” the Police spokesperson said.

Okupe Remains Labour Party Member, Campaign DG, Says Party Emameh Gabriel in Abuja Labour Party (LP) has dismissed the expulsion of its presidential campaigns Director General, Dr. Doyin Okupe, by the Ogun State chapter of the party led by the National Publicity of the party, Arabambi Aboyemi.

The National Secretary of the party, Umar Farouk, who addressed a press conference at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja yesterday, declared the suspension of Okupe and 11 other officials of the party null and void.

Farouk maintained that the Labour Party Ogun State chapter acted outside its constitutional jurisdiction even as it failed to explore the internal conflict resolution mechanism.

It would be recalled that the Ogun State chapter of the Labour Party Thursday expelled Okupe on the ground of his failure to perform his financial membership status in the past six months contrary to the dictates of the party’s constitution.

They announced his dismissal alongside 10 others from the party in the state.

The move was part of the resolutions reached at the end of a meeting held at the party’s secretariat in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital on Thursday, where they called for the emergence of a new director general of Northern

extraction to reflect the national character and political balance.

But the national headquarters through the party’s National Secretary has called their bluff, saying the party remained strong and united.

Umar said: “The party has an internal conflict resolution mechanism of handling cases against party members as enshrined in the party’s constitution.

“Therefore, the suspension of Dr. Doyin Okupe from the party by the Ogun State chapter is null and void. He still remains a card carrying member of the Labour Party and the Director General of the Presidential Campaign Council.

“The party is solidly united and behind its leadership and the leadership of PCC.” Umar also raised the alarm that the party was aware of steps “by opposition in some political parties to infiltrate the party’s structures at all levels, since it has become obvious that the chance of Labour Party’s candidate to emerge victorious in the upcoming presidential election is becoming brighter day by day.”

He said the party will do everything within its power to ensure that “our cohesion is not tempered with and we will not be distracted by antics of the opposition and our candidate will become victorious.”

men who stormed the mosque at around 6a.m.

The development which is currently stirring tension in Ughelli happened at Otovwievwiere Street in Okorodafe axis of the Ughelli metropolis.

The armed men were said to have released a volley of gun shots into the air before abducting their victim.

It was gathered that the gunmen, five in numbers in an unidentified Toyota Sienna, stormed the Mosque just when the worshippers were about to commence the morning prayers.

Secretary of Arewa Commu-

nity, Ughelli North, Darlington Ahmed Garma, told journalists that “At about 6:15a.m. unknown persons came with an ash colour Toyota Sienna, they parked opposite the mosque.

“Two men entered the mosque, as they were taking the Imam, Mallam Muhammadu Sani away, they told the remaining members that were performing their morning prayer to go outside.

“Before they got outside the mosque, 11 worshippers were shut and they are currently on admission at Ughelli Central Hospital,” he said.

One of the injured victims that spoke from the hospital bed, Muhammed Bagudu disclosed that the gunmen with their faces masked entered the mosque and began to shoot people.

“They shot me, my brother, one of the Imams and went away with another Imam, Muhammadu Sani from Katsina State.

When journalists got to Ughelli Central Hospital, some of the 11 victims were seen at the Accident and Emergency unit receiving treatment.

Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Bright Edafe, confirmed the incident but said

that only 11 worshippers were injured in the attack.

He, however, did not confirm the abduction of three worshippers.

“I just called the DPO at Ughelli and he confirmed to me that 11 persons were injured in the attack at the mosque.

“However, the police have commenced investigation into the incident and we will update you as we work to unravel the culprits.

“For now, no arrest has been made but I can assure you that we will get those involved,” Edafe said.

JOLLY GOOD OLD BOY… L-R: Akin Fatunke, President of BAOSA; Lagos State Commissioner for Education, Mrs. Sade Adefisayo; President of the Nigerian Baptist Convention, Dr. Akanji; Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwoolu; the donor, Mr. Akin Fadoju and his wife and Rev. Kristilere of the Shepherdhill Baptist Church Obanikoro, when Mr. Fadoju, who passed out of Baptist Academy, Lagos State in 1988 donated a 140-bed dormitory to his alma mater…recently.

Coalition Takes Anti CJN Protest to N’Assembly, Insists on His Sack Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja The Coalition of Civil Societies yesterday took their protest to the National Assembly where they insisted on the sack of the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Tajudeen Ariwoola, over his alleged partisanship and making utterances that could erode the integrity of the judiciary The coalition in a petition addressed to the Senate President, Senator Ahmed Lawan, titled ‘Condemnation of CJN’s Interference in Political Issue’, said Ariwoola had during commissioning of a project in Rivers State made statements conflicting with the impartiality expected of the judicial arm of government.

Addressing journalists in

Abuja, the Head of the Coalition, Nathaniel Balogun, said a few days ago they came out to save the country’s hard fought democracy, but the men of the Nigeria Police Force unleashed canisters on them for voicing their disappointment at the partisanship of the Chief Justice of Nigeria.

The coalition noted that as Nigerians they joined their voice with millions of Nigerians who are dissatisfied with the partisan nature the CJN has assumed.

It insisted that the independence of the judiciary could not be deemed satisfactory since the CJN has already taken a side in a political dispute within a political party out of the 18 others who are sponsoring candidates in the

2023 elections.

The coalition stressed that with the CJN’s ‘recklessness’ in politics, it was obvious that should there be disputations in 2023, his influence in the judiciary might deny a lot of candidates justice.

“We demand for his immediate sack as Nigerians no longer have confidence in his person as an impartial judge. Chief Justice of Nigeria Tajudeen Olukayode Ariwoola’s affinity in political dispute is a mark of interference capable of truncating the good efforts already put in place by the National Assembly.

“Nigerians may not be the deciders of electoral choices they make. With his continued stay in office, the courts may

subvert the people’s choice since the judicial head is now affiliated to the political class.

“How do we explain that the man saddled with the impartial role of dispensing justice is now on the side of a particular group in a political dispute?

Given the fact that 18 political parties are up in the race for the 2023 general elections, we wonder what interest the CJN had leading him to obstruct the impartiality of the Judicial arm of government he currently heads.

“It is unspeakable, flippant, unpardonable and unprofessional for the Chief Justice of Nigeria to openly identify with a side he is affectionately romancing in a sensitive political race that would be decided by Nigerians.”

UNFPA, Norway to Spend N2.2bn on Sexual, Reproductive Health in Nigeria Michael Olugbode in Abuja United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has signed an agreement with the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, for implementation of a three-year project titled, ‘Advancing Access to Comprehensive Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights of Adolescent Girls and Women’ put at a cost of Norwegian Krone (NOK) 48,000,000, approximately N2.2 billion.

According to a signed press statement yesterday, the agreement which was signed on Thursday in Abuja is expected to run from 2023-2025 and

would consolidate and build on the achievements of the recently-concluded Norway funded project titled: ‘Integrated approach to empowering adolescent girls and women in Gombe and Akwa Ibom states of Nigeria through access to sexual and reproductive health and rights’.

The statement revealed that the goal of the current project is to improve access to Comprehensive Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights of adolescent girls and women in selected local government areas of Gombe, Akwa Ibom and Kaduna states.

The project objectives, ac-

cording to the statement, are to improve access to quality family planning counselling and services for adolescent girls and women of reproductive age; increase access to quality emergency obstetric and newborn care services for women and girls; increase access to quality obstetric fistula care and prevention services for women and girls living with obstetric fistula; increase access to sexual and reproductive health information and life skills for adolescent girls; increase access to information on sexual and reproductive health including STI/HIV, gender equality and

ending harmful practices for men and boys; and increase the operational capacities of national partners and civil society organisations to address social norms in order to improve access to SRH services and gender equality.

The statement revealed that the expected beneficiaries are 180,000 women of reproductive age (aged 15-49 years) at risk of unplanned pregnancies; 2,000 women and girls living with complications of obstetric fistula; 6,500 adolescent girls (4,000 aged 10-14 years and 2,500 aged 15-19 years) at risk of early and forced marriages.

SATURDAY DECEMBER 3, 2022 • T H I S D AY

7

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾DECEMBER 3, 2022

8

NEWS

Dogara’s Group Adopts Atiku for 2023 Alex Enumah in Abuja A splinter group of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the North led by the former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara, has adopted the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, for the 2023 general elections.

The group under the platform of the Northern Leaders Consultative Forum comprising Christians and Muslims, adopted the PDP’s candidate, through a voice vote, after the report of its technical committee was presented to its members at a public forum in Abuja yesterday.

The report signed by the Chairman of the Northern Leaders Technical Criteria Committee, Hon. Mohammed Kumaila and Secretary, Nunghe Kele, SAN, was presented by former Deputy Governor of Kogi State, Simon Achuba.

“After a careful evaluation of all the issues highlighted above, we hereby recommend for the adoption of the PDP, to all lovers of democracy in Nigeria, for the 2023 presidential election.

According to Achuba, the group’s decision to adopt Atiku as its presidential candidate was not without getting the necessary assurance from the party to run an all-inclusive government, details of which he said shall be discussed with the leadership of the party in the nearest future.

The Northern Leaders InterFaith Consultative Dialogue had on October 8 in Abuja, set up a sub-committee mandated to draw up a criteria to serve as a guide to the Northern Leaders Consultative Forum, in its quest to adopt and support one of the leading political parties in the 2023 presidential elections.

“After careful consultations, research and brain-storming, the subcommittee came up

with the following analysis of the criteria used to arrive at and recommended a Pan-Nigeria platform for the main committee’s consideration, endorsement and adoption.

“Amongst the criteria used in selecting their choice of endorsement include factors such as presidential experience; requisite track record in public service, business and

education; evidence of national penetration; religious and ethnic balance.

“Other criteria include; panNigeria and tolerance, reasonable popularity, physical fitness for the rigours of state as well as the existing structures of the selected political parties and current candidates for 2023 according to INEC records.”

According to the report, Atiku

came tops from a 15 points criteria used in assessing the four leading political parties; All Progressives Congress (APC), PDP, Labour Party (LP) and New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP).

Atiku, who scored all 15 points criteria was followed by the candidate of the NNPP, Rabiu Kwankwaso, who scored 10 points and APC’s Senator Bola

Tinubu and LP’s Peter Obi, who both tied on 9 points.

Chairman of the Forum, former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dogara, who presided over the adoption said, said that the group decided to go for a pan Nigeria presidential candidate, following the adoption of a Muslim-Muslim ticket by the APC against massive protest.

Why NNPC Should Come Clean on Oil Swap Deals, Says Policy Alert Omon-Julius Onabu in Asaba The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has been called upon to publish the traded volumes, payments received by government and status of outstanding liabilities owed the federation from its oil-for-product swap deals with oil and gas commodity trading companies particularly between 2010 and 2014.

Policy Alert, a civil society organisation working to promote economic and ecological justice in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria, made the call during a followup engagement in Asaba with journalists it had recently trained on tracking the deals.

The organisation recently organised a two-day capacity building workshop for the media and CSOs in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital, with the theme ‘Tracking Beneficial Ownership Data on Nigeria’s Oil Swap Deals’.

The training workshop dwelt extensively on citizen collaboration

with relevant national agencies and authorities towards a more transparent and accountable oil and gas revenues in Nigeria through better policy and programme implementation.

However, presenting initial findings from an ongoing research by the organisation at the Asaba exercise, Policy Alert’s Senior Programmes Officer, Mfon Gabriel, highlighted the existence of certain undesirable gaps in the country’s swap deals that require undelayed rectification.

“The swap deals had been characterised by discretionary and undocumented contracting arrangements, absence of competitive bidding, secrecy, under-reporting, and tax avoidance, a situation that has allowed a number of politically exposed persons (PEPs) benefiting from these deals to escape the radar of public scrutiny,” he observed, adding, “Our laws mandate the NNPC Ltd and the downstream regulator to promptly make details of all such new arrangements public.”

IG Files Motion to Set Aside Committal Order Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja Following the committal order issued by the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja last week the Inspector General of Police, Usman Baba, yesterday approached the court to file a motion to set aside the contempt proceeding and committal order.

A statement by Force Headquarters affirmed that in the motion filed before the Federal High Court in the Federal Capital Territory December 1, 2022, “the IGP extensively highlighted grounds why the orders should be set aside including noting that he had not been appointed into office as Inspector General of Police when the case was instituted and the reinstatement order in question granted.”

He also stated that the contempt proceedings were served via substituted means in November

2018 and January, 2019 respectively, on the then Inspector General of Police, and not on him as the incumbent.

The statement said the IG, in his disposition, further noted that even before his assumption of office, official steps were taken by his predecessors toward complying with the reinstatement of Patrick C. Okoli, the plaintiff, as ordered by the court.

It said, “this was evidenced by an official letter addressed to the Police Service Commission on the approval of the then Inspector-General of Police as far back as 2015, and before the court order of November 29th, 2022, requesting the commission to issue a reinstatement letter to the plaintiff and also effect his promotion in line with the order of the court and in the exercise of their statutory authority in that regard.

READY FOR THE BORDERS...

Passing out of the maiden Nigeria Immigration Service Wo,men Armed Squad at Ahoada, Rivers State for border manning and patrols... yesterday

Alleged Misconduct: NJC Probes 15 High Court Judges Alex Enumah in Abuja The National Judicial Council (NJC) has set up 15 high powered probe panels to investigate allegations of gross misconduct against 15 Judges of the Federal and State High Courts.

The probe panels are to determine the culpability of the Judges in the various petitions filed against them by individuals and corporate bodies.

NJC’s Director of Information, Mr Soji Oye, in a statement yesterday, disclosed that the decision to investigate the alleged erring Judges was taken at the Council’s 99th meeting presided over by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, (CJN), Justice Olukayode Ariwoola.

This followed the submission of reports of the Preliminary Complaint Assessment Committees which considered 66 petitions forwarded to them by the NJC from all over the

federation.

The statement however did not disclose the names of judges to be probed, their divisions and specific nature of their alleged offences.

It, however, revealed that the council dismissed petitions against 51 judicial officers of the Federal and State High Courts for either lack of merit, being subjudice, or being matters for appeal or that the concerned Judge had retired from service.

The statement explained that the council was formally presented with the reviewed Judicial Information Technology Policy which established the general requirements and responsibilities for the Nigerian Judiciary systems and information.

“The policy provides for guidance of courts and judicial bodies in protecting confidentiality, integrity and

availability (CIA) of judiciary function and process.

“It also stipulates guidance for acceptable use of system, services and technologies, as well as provisions for secure storage of judicial data and recovery processes in the event of emergencies or distress.

“Similarly, it further provides guidelines and incident management policies including Data Centre deployment and use policies.

“The Scope is intended for all courts and judicial bodies in Nigeria including staff of the Nigerian judiciary, employed or contracted to any judicial body handling information that is generated, received, stored, transmitted, or printed.

“It encompasses all personal or Judiciary identifiable data held in their courts and judicial bodies’ systems and processes, including supporting mechanisms

and technologies for managing such data at rest or in transit.

“All staff are expected to comply with the policy and associated standard protocols and procedures that have been put in place to support the document.

“The policy is applicable to all courts units, departments of all judicial bodies in the Nigerian Judiciary.

“Council noted appointments of judicial officers recommended for appointment at the last meeting who have been sworn–in as Judges of Federal and State High Courts.

“Reports from standing and ad-hoc Committees of the council were also presented at the meeting, as well as notifications of retirement of 16 judges and notification of death of a Judge from the Federal and State High Courts,” the statement further said.

Obi: Salvaging Nigeria Requires Collective Efforts The presidential candidate of Labour Party (LP), Mr. Peter Obi, has described Nigeria as a country that was needlessly run down through cumulative effects of bad governance, saying it could only be salvaged through collective efforts.

Obi spoke yesterday to airport correspondents at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos.

He said he just returned to Nigeria from the United States of America where he had gone for two-day critical meetings all

geared towards seeking solutions to the many problems facing the country.

Describing the major problem facing the country as economics, Obi said that however advanced a country was, that once the economy failed to the point of engendering massive unemployment, hopelessness, and hunger caused by uncontrollable food inflation as Nigeria was presently witnessing, that such a country would witness massive crimes and criminalities.

“This is what we are suffering

today in Nigeria,” Obi said, assuring that his government would reverse the trend through a cocktail of measures, including reducing the cost of governance, improving production and reducing endemic corruption.

On his preparedness to restore the country, Obi said he was perhaps the most prepared because of his deep and sustained interest in the progress of the country as well as his experience in the management of men and resources.

“You may wish to verify

from all the corporations and institutions I have managed, including Security and Exchange Commission and Anambra State,” he said.

Obi who described his trip as “worthwhile”, said he was encouraged by not just Nigerians but Africans who feel that after Nigerians would have successfully taken back their country in February, that it would encourage other African countries that are experiencing bad leadership to do the same without recourse to the destructiveness of war.

SATURDAY DECEMBER 3, 2022 • T H I S D AY

9

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER DECEMBER 3, 2022

10

NEWS APGA Faults Court Verdict, Insists Abia Guber Primary Duly Conducted Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia The national leadership of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) has faulted a court verdict ordering the party to conduct a fresh governorship primary in Abia State, saying that it would challenge the judgement at the appellate court.

The party’s rejection of the court judgement was made known yesterday by the National chairman, Chief Victor Ike Oye, during the inauguration of the Abia APGA Campaign Council in Umuahia.

Justice Binta Nyako of an

ENRICHING KNOWLEDGE…

Abuja High Court had on Thursday while delivering MXGJHPHQW LQ D VXLW ÀOHG E\ Chief Chikwe Udensi, nulliÀHG WKH JRYHUQRUVKLS SULPDU\ that produced Prof. Greg Ibe as candidate and ordered for fresh primary within two weeks.

But Chief Oye dismissed the judgement, which he described as a travesty of justice, adding that it would crumble when subjected to the scrutiny of the Appeal Court.

He, therefore, urged the APGA faithful and supporters in Abia to remain steadfast and not bother about the judgment as it would be overturned in due course.

L-R: Yaya Adamu; Representative of the minister of Education; Mrs. Kagioron Baridi; Author of the book, Ms Kuni Tyessi; General Secretary, Nigerian Guild of Editors, Mr. Iyobosa Uwugiaren and Editor, Fortune Magazine, Mr. Simon Reef Musa during the official presentation and launch of the books “If Only we Knew and Being Twins” written by Kuni Tyessi in Abuja… yesterday

We Won’t Rest Till Our Borders are Completely Secured, Says Idris

Arise News Presidential Town Hall Meeting Series 3 Holds Tomorrow

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has said that it will not rest on its oars at ensuring that the nation’s vast borders are completely secured.

The Comptroller General of the service, Isah Jere Idris, stated this yesterday at the passing out parade of the maiden Nigeria Immigration Service Women Armed Squad Training in Ahoada, Rivers State.

The CG noted that as a stakeholder in the nation’s security, NIS had re-jigged LWV ÀJKW DJDLQVW WHUURULVP trans border crimes and other emerging security threats in the

Bennett Oghifo

constitution, which empowers the media to undertake such The Arise News Presidential responsibility.

It states, “The press, radio, Town Hall Meeting (series 3) holds tomorrow at 7 PM and television and other agencies will feature the presidential of the mass media, shall at all candidates of the Peoples Demo- times be free to uphold the cratic Party, Atiku Abubakar ; fundamental objectives contained Labour Party, Peter Obi; New in this chapter and uphold the Nigeria Peoples Party, Rabiu responsibility of the government Kwankwaso; and the Presidential of the people.”

This, understandably, is the candidate of the All Progressives Congress, Bola Ahmed Tinubu underpinning motivation behind the ARISE News Town Hall, was invited.

In holding these Town Hall and this third series, focusing VHULHV $ULVH 1HZV LV IXOÀOLQJ on “Education, Health Care, the statutory role placed on Poverty, Human Capital”.

Arise News Channel said it it by Section 22 of the 1999

“expects all candidates seeking elections to form government under this constitution, to respect the letters and spirit of the law, either on Arise News Channel or any broadcast channel or media of their choice, to respond to questions from independent journalists, in keeping with the fundamental objectives, responsibility, and accountability required by the constitution for those who wish to lead us.”

The Arise News Presidential Town Hall Series Three is being held in collaboration with the Centre for Democracy & Development.

Others partners are Premium Times; Nigerian Union of Journalists; Nigerian Guild of Editors; Vanguard; Daily Trust; New Telegraph; Leadership; TheCable; Nigerian Coalition Fact Checkers; Punch; The Guardian; and The Sun. The meeting will stream live on youtube, instagram, facebook and on all social media platforms. It will be on Sky Channel 519, DSTv Channel 416, GOTv Channel 44, www. arise.tv, youtube Arise News, LQVWDJUDP #DULVHQHZVR΀FLDO twitter @ARISEtv, and on facebook.

Justice Act. Justice Yusuf Halilu of the FCT First Lady, Aisha Buhari High Court issued the release yesterday withdrew a suit she warrant and commended the ÀOHG DJDLQVW D ÀQDO \HDU VWXGHQW president’s wife for withdrawing of the Federal University, Dutse, the case, urging parental control Jigawa State, Aminu Moham- to ensure it never happened med, following appeals from again.

Muhammed, according to well-meaning Nigerians.

Mohammed was, on No- the police, was arrested in his vember 29, 2022, charged with school on November 18, 2022 by Cybercrime, Cybersquatting, police detectives and remanded Computer Related Forgery, at the Suleja Correctional Centre, Conspiracy and Criminal Breach Niger State.

Since then, there have been of Trust.

Counsel for the First Lady, Mr. condemnation of the incident by Fidelis Ogbobe, who withdrew Amnesty International Nigeria, the case on her behalf cited human rights activists, the section 108 subsection 2(a) of National Association of Nigerian the Administration of Criminal Students, among others.

Amnesty International Nigeria said, “The Nigerian authorities must urgently release Aminu Muhammed and drop all charges against him. He is a student accused of defaming Aisha Buhari, the First Lady of Nigeria, on Twitter.”

The Director of Amnesty International, Nigeria, Osai Ojigho said, “It is beyond disgraceful that the Nigerian authorities have arrested and allegedly tortured Aminu Adamu Muhammed after he merely Tweeted about the First Lady of Nigeria. This deeply repressive act brazenly violates his human rights.

“The bogus charges against Aminu must be urgently and

“Wake Me Up from this Dream” - House Lagos Begins Domestication of Nigerian Winner in Glo Festival of Joy Promo Startup Act Through KITE Project For Chukwu Reuben Okorie, the good life has begun as he became a proud owner of a three-bedroom house in one of the choice areas of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, courtesy of Globacom’s Festival of Joy promotion.

The 48-year-old businessman, who hails from Bende Local Government area of Abia State, kept begging Glo staff at the presentation of the keys to the house to him yesterday “to please wake me up from this dream.

This is too good to be true. This is too much for me to contain”.

Okorie, the third house winner to emerge in Glo Festival of Joy promo, was beside himself with joy when the reality of his rare luck finally dawned on him.

“From one bedroom in the interior part of the city, Glo has made me a landlord of a whole three-bedroom apartment with a two-room bungalow in the Federal City Territory. It is only possible with Glo,” he gushed with joy.

Regional Manager, Globacom, North Central, Mr. Kazeem Kemi Kaka disclosed that the realisation that shelter is one of the key needs

Wale Igbintade Lagos State Government has commenced the domestication of the Nigerian Startup Act (NSA2022) with the establishment of Knowledge, Innovation, Technology, and Entrepreneurship (KITE) Project which will equitably localise the Act. The KITE project is expected WR VLJQLÀFDQWO\ FRQWULEXWH WR Nigeria’s economic development and position Lagos State as the hub for innovation in Nigeria.

The workshop held at Eko Innovation Centre, brought together startup founders,

Eterna Plc Records Strong Q3 2022 Results, Continues Impressive Performance

Eterna Plc, a leading integrated GULYHQ E\ D VLJQLÀFDQW LQFUHDVH energy provider in the country, in revenue to N91.9billion in Q3 has reported an impressive 2022 from N61.37billion reported performance in 2022, recording in Q3 2021 and prudent cost D SURÀW EHIRUH WD[ RI 1 ELOOLRQ management, pushing operating unconditionally dropped. The by the end of Q3 2022 against FRVW EHORZ FXUUHQW LQÁDWLRQ OHYHOV authorities should instead order N566.9 million reported by the at 13 per cent year-on-year an investigation into his unlawful HQG RI 4 3URÀW DIWHU WD[ growth within 2022.

(WHUQD EHQHÀWHG IURP WKH detention and abusive treatment. JUHZ VLJQLÀFDQWO\ E\ SHU The fact that he was detained cent to N1.44 billion in Q3 2022 increase in petroleum products incommunicado highlights the from N416 million in Q3 2021. supply in the period as price The year 2022 has been an of PMS (petrol) increased to an rampant impunity enjoyed by impressive run for the company average price of N179.42 per the Nigerian authorities. ´$PLQX·V ÀQDO H[DPV DUH as copies of the unaudited OLWUH LQ WKH ÀUVW QLQH PRQWKV RI scheduled for December 5, 2022, ÀQDQFLDO VWDWHPHQW IRU HDFK 2022 against an average price of at the Federal University Dutse. quarter of the year show a N166.29 in the corresponding He must be urgently freed and WUHQG RI FRQVLVWHQW SURÀW IRU WKH period of 2021, according to the company. The turnaround in National Bureau of Statistics EH DEOH WR ÀQLVK KLV GHJUHH µ According to Ojigho, “The the company performance was (NBS). heavy-handed mistreatment of Aminu is a clear attempt to strike fear into the hearts of Technology, Only Way to End Malpractices, young Nigerians who use social media to hold the powerful to Minister Tells NECO, Others account.

Kuni Tyessi in Abuja said Nigeria was still far from overcoming issues of examinaMinister of Education, Mallam tion malpractices.

“Examination malpractices Adamu Adamu, has called on examination and assessment LV D PDMRU SUREOHP DͿHFWLQJ bodies in the country to deploy the conduct of public exams Information and Communication in Nigeria and let me say that technology experts, innovators, Technology (ICT) mechanisms Nigeria is underdeveloped in and enthusiasts to join the state to end the menace of exam tackling issues of malpractices government in domesticating the malpractices. in our exams. policies in the Nigerian Startup “ICT is the way to go in Adamu made the call in Act. Lagos while declaring open a curbing this menace. It has 7KH $FW GHÀQHV 1LJHULDQ one-day National Sensitisation become most critical that startups, their scope, operations, Workshop on Malpractice in we must adopt and become incentives, and limits to attract Nigeria jointly organised by the creative in adopting ICT devices foreign investment and open up National Examinations Council to protect the sanctity of our the Nigerian tech industry.

NECO and the National As- examinations across Nigeria,” A startup, according to the sembly with the theme: ‘Role the minister said. $FW LV ´D ÀUP WKDW KDV EHHQ LQ of Education Stakeholders In On his part, Permanent operation for no more than ten (10) Tackling Examination Malprac- Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Education, Andrew Adejo, years and whose aims include the tice in Nigeria’. invention, innovation, production, Represented by the Reg- in a keynote address, called on development, or adoption of a istrar, Joint Admissions and the National Assembly to enact new digital technology creative Matriculation Board (JAMB), laws for sanctions on consequent product, service, or method.”

Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, the minister actions.

Aisha Buhari Withdraws Suit against Detained Student Bennett Oghifo

country.

He said the Service would continue training and other capacity building programmes within and outside the country to broaden the knowledge of R΀FHUV DQG HTXLS WKHP WR deliver on its mandate.

The NIS Comptroller General advised the newly trained IHPDOH R΀FHUV WR EH IRFXVHG and disciplined in carrying out their assigned duties. $ERXW IHPDOH R΀FHUV ZHUH trained on weapon handling, combat craft, border security, counter terrorism techniques and intelligence gathering.

SATURDAY DECEMBER 3, 2022 • T H I S D AY

11

12

SATURDAY DECEMBER 3, 2022 • T H I S D AY

13

DECEMBER 3, 2022 • THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

INSIGHT

The suffering continues...

Understanding Advocacy for Alleged Witches in Africa

T

he formation of the Advocacy for Alleged Witches (AfAW) has continued to generate reactions from the public. The purpose of this piece is to highlight these reactions, clarify the misconceptions, and properly situate the mission and objective of AfAW. Recently a well-meaning Nigerian asked us to change the name of the organization. He was not the first to do so. He stated that the caption, Advocacy for Alleged Witches) was repulsive. Repulsive? He said: “The goal of saving the elderly with medical challenges and stigmatized children (all ignorantly and wrongly dubbed witches and wizards) can still be achieved with a far more creative and imaginative title or caption”. Interesting.

I wondered what could be more creative than the title, Advocacy for Alleged Witches. What else could be more imaginative than this clear and crisp name? No ambiguity as to what it stands for and what it meant to achieve. I mean, how is this focused title nauseate to anyone unless the person is mentally held hostage by occult fears and anxieties?

I asked the person who made the post to clarify and further explain so that we could review or consider revising the name.

He responded: “All I advise is that you rethink that name for you to make the desired impact. With that name, your otherwise good intentions will grossly be misunderstood”.

Indeed I understood his point even though I disagreed with it. I pretended not to have understood and inquired if he wanted us to change the name of the organization.

And he answered in the affirmative stating that the name, Advocacy for Alleged Witches, would be misunderstood by the Nigerian public. He said: “An average Nigerian will misconstrue that to mean you are advocating for witchcraft!

The prefix “alleged,” won’t change anything. You can still go ahead, but have this in mind”.

As I noted in my reply to him, his was a valid point.

And many campaigners have tried to avoid being misunderstood and have ended up choosing a vague name that obfuscated their objective and mission. At AfAW we have chosen a different pathway to address the problem.

I must admit that since the foundation of AfAW, we have been wrestling with issues regarding the perception of the organization. Many Nigerians think AfAW is an organization of witches. Our meetings have been designated as meetings of witches. Our events have been described as activities meant to promote witchcraft. Let me share a few experiences.

In 2020, we had a hard time convincing journalists that AfAW was not and should not be described as a witches’ group. Many news outlets described AfAW as an

After Floods, Comes Famine

T

he floods which swept through many parts of the country some time ago, submerging homes and hopes with devastating consequences were no isolated events. They had been a long time in coming and in fact they had become a yearly occurrence.

Yet, when they struck with vicious variety, Nigeria as a country was caught unawares and unprepared, as usual. As the country scrambled to put together a befitting response to alleviate the sufferings of families who had seen their livelihoods washed away by storms, many people around the country have been forced to plumb the depths of human misery.

Of course, there were many deaths. For many people, the floods riotously disrupted their lives as they knew it.

Yet, with the floods now having receded in many places, Nigerians most affected by the floods have been gradually and gently putting back what little pieces of their lives have been left behind by the floods. For these people, life must continue where it stopped before the riotous disruption.

However, the most distressing thing about the whole episode is that come next year, the floods may again wreak as much havoc as they have this year, that is if they do not even claim more scalps.

In a country where so little is in place by way of disaster preparation, Nigeria has been particularly obstinate when it comes to putting in place measures to check the floods that are as sure to come around each year as surely as the sun rises every day.

So little is always in place in spite of the often timeous warnings of experts. Now, farmers have warned that food insecurity will T H E SAT U R DAY N E W S PA P E R be a grave concern next year as a result of the EDITOR YEMI ADEBOWALE floods which have severely disrupted farming DEPUTY EDITOR AHAMEFULA OGBU activities.

MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO It will be a situation of near tragic proporDEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI tions because as it stands, Nigeria as a country EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN already struggles to feed its teeming population MANAGING EDITOR BOLAJI ADEBIYI which surged to the 216 million mark this THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE month.

The predicted shortage of food in Nigeria will come as a massive blow to those children who already struggle to get enough food every day.

T H I S DAY N E W S PA P E R S L I M I T E D Nigeria is already a global hunger hotspot.

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA Indeed it has been ever since January 27,2022, GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, when the World Food Programme and the ISRAEL IWEGBU, IJEOMA NWOGWUGWU, EMMANUEL EFENI DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE Food and Agriculture Organization released DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI the Hunger Hotspots Report in which they SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH highlighted soaring food insecurity across 20 ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI countries where conflict, economic shocks, CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI political instability, natural hazards and limited DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO humanitarian access were putting millions of TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com lives at risk.

Kene Obiezu, @kenobiezu

organization of witches. Do an online search and you would see some news headlines like “witches’ group says so so and so” “Witches rejoice..”. At some point, I had to confront a journalist from a major online newspaper over this and he explained that describing AfAW as a witches’ group made a catchy headline. A catchy headline indeed. Now in the quest to attract more online traffic or readership, these media organizations sacrifice truth and facts about an important issue. They misinform the public, misrepresent the organization and reinforce a misconception.

In September, an incident buttressed the concerns raised by this gentleman. The police invaded and stopped a seminar of AfAW in Benue State. They claimed that they received some intelligence that witches were meeting and had been instructed to stop the meeting. I mean, police officers were at the venue of the event with their guns and vans to stop a meeting of witches. Is that not absurd? I guess some of them must have been there with charms to protect themselves against the witches.

Leo Igwe directs Advocacy for Alleged Witches

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER DECEMBER 3, 2022

14

NEWS Military Denies Allegations of Forced Anchor Varsity Holds Convocation Ceremony Abortion of ‘Boko Haram’ Pregnancies Funmi Ogundare OHFWXUH WLWOHG ¶%XLOGLQJ $ &XOWXUH Says wives of repentant insurgents in camps were delivered of 262 babies in 4 months

Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja

The military high command yesterday debunked allegations of involvement in the abortion of pregnancies of wives of insurgents in the North-east.

A statement issued by the Director, Defence Information (DDI), Maj Gen Jimmy Akpor, said the allegations smacked of wickedness in view of the military’s role in the restoration of democracy in Liberia, Sierra Leone, among

other peace-keeping operations across the globe without any such record.

It accused Reuters news agency of planning to publish stories about purported actions of the Nigerian military during the government’s 13-year war against Islamist insurgents in the country’s North-east.

“To them, they were committed to producing an accurate, fair and complete report hence, their request to arrange a time to discuss before their reporting.

Anchor University Lagos, will hold its second convocation The supposed stories were abortion programme in the ceremony for 2020/2021 academic purported to focus on two country’s North east terminat- session scheduled for December VSHFLÀF DUHDV ÀUVW VXSSRVHG ing at least 12,000 pregnancies 8 and 9 at the school’s premises. military-run programme of among women and girls.

The Registrar, Mr. Moses “That many children were Salami described this year’s forced abortions performed on women and girls who VKRW SRLVRQHG VXͿRFDWHG programme as a celebration were held captive and impreg- or run down by vehicles in of excellence saying that it nated by Islamist militants and army-led actions. Furthermore, will showcase the graduating second, a supposed killing of the report was to allege that students as peculiar pearls and children by the military as part soldiers selected babies and tod- the uniqueness of the university. of counterinsurgency operations. dlers for killing after rescuing “The three-day ceremony, will “The Reuters report was them and their mothers from NLFN RͿ ZLWK D SUHVV FRQIHUHQFH to also allege that, since 2013, Islamist militants, amongst other on December 6, at the school Nigeria’s military had run a weighty concocted allegations”, premises while the convocation secret, systematic and illegal the planned report claimed.

of Entrepreneurship As The Panacea For Youth Unemployment’, is scheduled for December 8, with the CEO, Stanel Group, Dr. Stanley Uzochukwu delivering lecture.”

Other programmes include; a novelty match between AnFKRU 8QLYHUVLW\ DQG 7KH %HOO university, inter-faculty debate, luncheon/variety night for the graduands.

Salami reiterated that this year’s convocation ceremony was carefully packaged to showcase everything about the school and the graduands in particular.

Katsina Varsity Constructs 80-Housing Units for Lecturers Francis Sardauna in Katsina The management of the Katsina State-owned Umaru Musa Yar’Adua University (UMYU) has constructed 80 3-bedrooms housing units for its lecturers as part of efforts to enhance and sustain effective and efficient learning in the institution.

Vice Chancellor of the university, Prof. Sunusi Mamman, who disclosed this while unveiling his achievements to journalists, said the university could not achieve

its greatness if the lecturers are not residing within its campus hence the construction of the housing units. +H VDLG ´7KLV XQLYHUVLW\ ZDV established as a non-residential institution in 2006 but today courtesy of my state governor and my council we have succeeded in constructing 80 number 3-bedrooms housing units for lectures because the university cannot achieve its greatness if lecturers are not domicile in the university”.

Dafe Oboro, Belinda Win Access Art X Award $10,000 Grant Each Rebecca Ejifoma

HONOURED FOR EXCELLENCE… Director General, National Council for Arts and Culture, Otunba Segun Runsewe flanked by President, Society of Nigeria Theatre Artists, Prof. Gowon Doki (2nd left, Dr. Roseline Yacim (2nd right), Prof. Make Bepo and Dr. Tochukwu Okeke, during the presentation of the Distinguished Leadership Award to Runsewe...recently

2023: Ex-LG Chairmen Back Gov Abiodun for 2nd Term James Sowole in Abeokuta The Association of Ex-Local Government Chairmen of Nigeria (ASELGON) Ogun State chapter, yesteray, announced its endorsement for the second term bid of Governor Dapo Abiodun.

Leading members on a courtesy visit to the governor at the Presidential Lodge, Abeokuta, the president and former chairman of Imeko/Afon Local Government Area, said the association was impressed with the achievements of the current administration in less WKDQ IRXU \HDUV LQ R΀FH

He explained that “the association is apolitical, but D FRQYHUJHQFH RI WKH ÀQHVW grassroots actors across political divides, whose goals is to deepen grassroots engagement and participation in the nation’s polity and promoting the sanctity of the local government”.

The former LG boss added the association was formed in 2013 and incorporated in 2017 as a platform of former elected chairmen.of LGs to contribute to the political development of the country based on their grassroots background, connections and interactions.

Asipa, however, stated that members of ASELGON in the state had met and reviewed the activities of the state government and agreed that the current administration has performed creditably well and deserves to be honoured.

“Your Excellency sir, I am a son of the soil and as a result of this, the association has endorsed \RXU QG WHUP LQ R΀FH :H ZLOO constantly work in harmony with your administration and participate in all your campaign activities.

“It may interest you to know that after today’s endorsement,

we promise to bring on board at least sixty percent of the councilors, supervisors, special advisers, consultants that served under each chairman so that everybody will be on the same page to support you”, Asipa declared The chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, Yemi Sanusi, in his remarks, applauded the former local government bosses for identifying with the current administration and extension of their hands of fellowship, having seen the impact the government has made in the state.

Founder of EDP Centre Assures Emenike Rolls out Campaign Machinery to Rescue Abia in 2023 Clients of Data Safety Founder/Chairman of EDP Centre Computer Audit Laboratory, Mr. Chris Ekeigwe, has assured clients of the IT and auditing firm of the safety of their data and devices.

Ekeigwe gave the assurance following an explosion at the gate of the company which is located in River Valley Estate, Ojodu %HUJHU %XV 6WRS QHLJKERXUKRRG on Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, in the early hours of Sunday November 27, 2022.

He said with the help of its international partners, EDP Center has since implemented novel platform and device hardening technologies to protect client data.

He explained that technology has helped the firm to pseudonymize its experts/consultants to make them

difficult to identify by criminals, adding, “as for the critical data we handle for clients, we have anonymized critical information so they would be useless in the hands of those without legal rights to have them. ´:H ZDQW WR DVVXUH DOO RXU FOLHQWV that we continue to maintain the integrity of our work and materials in highly secure indeterminate locations with world class electronic and physical security technologies and procedures, and with the help of our global technical partners.

“All sensitive information in our hands are secure and will continue to be in secure chain of custody because we practise our profession as a calling, with intrepidity, and with commitment to protecting

Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia The governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia State, Chief Ikechi Emenike, is not leaving any stone unturned as he digs deep to prepare the campaign machinery for the rescue of Abia.

He told state party leaders and their local government counterparts that attended a functional meeting at his Umukabia Okpuala country home in Umuahia North Local Government, that the campaign council must be comprehensive and inclusive.

Emenike assured the party

leaders and stakeholders that his liberation message must be taken to every nook and cranny of Abia in order to prepare the people to play the role enquired of them in the liberation mission.

He encouraged them to sustain the winning mentality as Abia is ripe for a successful harvest by APC, adding that the liberation movement he is leading “is divinely ordained to set Abia on the path of genuine development”.

“God has watered the ground on which we have planted in Abia and now we are waiting for our harvest of victory coming up in 2023,” he said.

Twenty-eight-year-old Nigerian DUWLVW 'DIH 2ERUR DQG %HOLQGD Kazeem-Kaminski have won the 7th edition of the Access Art X Award. :KLOH 2ERUR FOLQFKHG WKH SUL]H for the Nigerian category, KazeemKaminski won the African/ Diaspora category.

Each of the winners gets a $10,000 grant towards an exhibition at ART X Lagos 2023, three-month residency at Gasworks, London,

for the Nigerian winner). KazeemKaminski will have a three-month residency at the Yinka Shonibare’s GAS Foundation alongside mentoring, support and cultural exchange opportunities.

According to the Founder and CEO of ART X, Tokini PetersideSchwebig, “it is a delight to present this prized opportunity to these two exceptional artists – Dafe and %HOLQGD ² ZKR DUH XQLTXH LQ WKHLU perspectives but are united in their ambition to shift narratives about Africa and its global Diaspora.”

Lies Can’t Excuse FG’s Failure of Nigerians, Obaseki’s Aide Tells, Agba The Special Adviser to the Edo State Governor on Media Projects, Crusoe Osagie, has stated that telling lies in the face of indisputable evidence of bad leadership, poor economic management and general insecurity, which has thrown over 133 million Nigerians into debilitating poverty, cannot excuse the federal government’s economic managers from blame for poor performance and unforgivable blunders.

Osagie was responding to the 0LQLVWHU RI %XGJHW DQG 1DWLRQDO Planning, Prince Clem Agba who, during a press briefing after the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting, blamed Nigeria’s 36 state governors for the 133 million Assemblies of God Celebrates Annual Harvest, Thanksgiving Assemblies of God Celebrates Annual Harvest, Thanksgiving on December 4. $VVHPEOLHV RI *RG ,VROR 0HJD :RUVKLS Centre- City of David will celebrate the 2022 Annual Harvest/Thanksgiving with the WKHPH ¶&HOHEUDWLRQ RI *RG·V ,PPHDVXUDEOH Grace’ on December 4, 2022.

The event will take place at the church’s Main Auditorium, 5/7, Risi Laguda Close, 0HWUR %XV 6WRS ,UH $NDUL (VWDWH ,VROR /DJRV

people who have descended into multidimensional poverty.

15

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾DECEMBER 3, 2022

RingTrue 08054699539

yemi.adebowale@thisdaylive.com

Yemi

Adebowale

Wike’s Dirty Politics in Rivers State

I

t is preposterous that a ruling party in a state would drag the governorship candidates of almost all opposition parties to court, to question how they emerged, and a court of law would allow the nonsense to stand. That is the dangerous political trend ongoing in Rivers State, courtesy of garrulous Governor Nyesom Wike-led Peoples Democratic Party.

This governor has been exploiting Nigeria’s kinked courts to unleash judicial mayhem on governorship candidates of leading opposition parties in the state. This is aimed at destabilising them and ensuring that these parties have no candidates in the 2023 governorship election in the state.

Wike does not want any strong opposition for his puppet, the PDP’s governorship contender, Siminialaye Fubara The case filed against Tonye Cole, the All Progressives Congress’s governorship candidate, is most interesting.

Few months back, the Rivers State PDP asked a Federal High Court sitting in Port Harcourt to order INEC to disqualify Cole, claiming that the delegates that voted at the primary election won by the APC candidate were not democratically Wike elected. Wike and his PDP also told the court that Cole holds dual citizenship to any other country, he is qualified to (Nigeria and the United Kingdom), contest elections. Tonye Cole acquired “which disqualifies him from vying for citizenship of the United Kingdom; he any elective office in Nigeria.” stated so in his forms before INEC. But It is pertinent to note that the plaintiff it is also clear that he is a citizen of i.e. the River State chapter of the PDP, Nigeria by birth. So, the court read that is not a member of the APC; it did not very clearly from the constitution and participate in the APC gubernatorial proceeded to disqualify him contrary primary election, yet approached a court to the provisions of the constitution.” to complain about what the Rivers APC Before the judgement disqualifying did at its primary election. This is a Cole, the Rivers APC had tried to counter clear case of what good judges would the PDP, by adopting Wike’s strategy. describe as “meddlesome interlopers.” How? They also filed a suit asking the Legally, the Rivers State PDP lacks the court to disqualify Wike’s man, Fubara locus standi to challenge the APC primary as the governorship candidate of the PDP. and are simply meddlers. That is the It was also handled by Justice Obile, who position of the law. in preliminary objections by the Rivers Disgracefully, Justice Emmanuel Obile PDP, ruled that “no party has the right who presided over the case, agreed with to interfere in the internal affairs of other PDP’s submission that the APC candidate political parties.” The court also held that it is not eligible to contest the primary has no jurisdiction to entertain the case and election and also declared the APC dismissed it. This ruling clearly contradicts primary election won by Cole as null the one sacking Cole. and void. He directed INEC to remove Another interesting dimension to Cole’s name from the list of eligible these weird cases is that the PDP in Cross candidates for the 2023 governorship River State recently tried to use Wike’s election in the state. tactics against Bassey Otu, APC’s 2023 Justice Obile’s ruling is clearly weird governorship candidate in the state. PDP and not sustainable. That was why APC’s and its candidate, Senator Sandy Onor, Publicity Secretary, Darlington Nwauju sought the disqualification of Otu and said the judgment was meant to satisfy his running mate, Peter Odey, from the PDP in Rivers State. participating in the election.

Counsel for the APC, Collins Dike, Onor and the Cross River State’s PDP captures the oddness of the judgement alleged that Odey was not a member of appropriately: “First, to say that the the APC and that he was also a British judgement has been given, in law, we citizen and as such, was not qualified to abide by it. However, we are disappointed run for any elective position in Nigeria. and we are sure we are going to test it PDP’s Counsel, Mba Ukweni prayed the at the Court of Appeal. court to disqualify the APC gubernatorial “Our constitution is very clear that candidate and his running mate, since where a person is a citizen of Nigeria by it was a joint ticket. But the presiding birth and goes on to acquire the citizenship judge, Justice Rosemary Oghoghorie struck of any other country or pledges allegiance out the matter, because “it is devoid of

any merit whatsoever.”

The acquisition of dual citizenship by a Nigerian per se is not a ground for disqualification for elective office particularly where the Nigerian citizen is a citizen by birth. That is the clear meaning of the provisions in sections 66 (1) and 28 of the 1999 constitution when taken together. No doubt, in Cross River State, Justice Oghoghorie properly interpreted the laws of our country in this case. Victor Ndoma-Egba, a Chieftain of the Cross River State APC, while hailing the judgement, said: “The judgement is expected. They (Onor and the Cross River State’s PDP) don’t have the locus standi and that was why they were aptly described by the judge as meddlesome interlopers or busybodies.”

Juxtapose Justice Oghoghorie ruling in Cross River and that of Justice Obile’s ruling sacking Cole, and you will agree that something is clearly wrong with the ruling in Rivers State. On this judgement, Wike has a lot of questions to answer for.

His handwriting is visible on the wall.

Wike is also hindering even National and State Assembly candidates of the leading political parties in his state from the 2023 elections, using this worrisome judicial tactic. Already, a court in Port Harcourt has ordered INEC to remove candidates of the Labour Party in Port Harcourt Federal Constituencies 1 and 2 as well as Obio/Akpor Federal Constituency, from its list of candidates. It has also nullified the nomination of four Labour Party House of Assembly candidates.

Another Federal High Judge Court, Justice Turaki Muhammed disqualified 16 of the 32 APC Rivers House of Assembly candidates, after dismissing two vital preliminary objections by APC on the issue of jurisdiction and Locus Standi.

All the suits were filed by Wike’s Rivers State PDP. The Judiciary in Rivers State must rise above sentiments and resist Wike’s antics. The Rivers State Governor is a threat to democracy.

The Judiciary must persistently properly interpret the laws of our land in order to sustain Nigeria’s democracy. This must be done without fear or favour. They must remain neutral and impartial, while also resisting inducement by politicians.

Fraternising with politicians must stop.

Unfortunately, the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Oluwakayode Ariwoola, who should be leading in this direction, left many disappointed, with his recent open association with some politicians. I was shattered by the CJN’s remarks in support of actions by a group of PDP governors led by Wike. At another function, Ariwoola was quoted as saying, whether people like Wike or not, he was leaving a legacy for generations unborn, stressing that his record will be hard to beat by any other public official.

Before this, Ariwoola was on October 30, hosted to an elaborate reception by Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde. The

Bello Turji Ravaging Gov Matawalle’s LG

T

error leader, Bello Turji, who was declared wanted by the military few weeks back, is roaming freely in Gidan-goga village, Maradun LGA of Zamfara State. This is the LG of Governor Bello Matawalle, who holds the title of Matawalle Maradun. Residents of Gidan-goga are being traumatised by Turji who imposes all sorts of levies on them. The latest is his demand for N20 million, with a deadline. Matawalle seems

incapable of rescuing these villagers from the grip of Turji.

To avoid being attacked by Turji, the community had to raise the money and delivered it to the terrorists last Sunday. An additional N6 million was also paid by the community for the release of five people abducted by Turji’s men some weeks ago. Many are fleeing Gidan-goga to avoid Turji’s unending pain. Security agencies are aware of the villagers’ predicament

but nothing is happening in terms of helping them.

Turji and his boys are still ravaging Zamfara, Katsina and Sokoto states. This is the meaning of Nigeria being in a mess with security. An outlaw is roaming freely unhindered and security agents pretend to be unaware of his location. Not even one of the 19 terror leaders declared wanted by the military 19 days ago has been apprehended. What a tragedy! Who will save beloved Nigeria?

G5 governors were also there. The CJN celebrated it passionately. These portend great danger for the country’s judiciary.

The clarifications by the Supreme Court on behalf of Ariwoola did not help matters. It simply confirmed his dangerous association with politicians.

I brought in Justice Ariwoola’s shenanigans to properly situate the challenges of the Judiciary in Rivers State in the match to annihilate opposition candidates. The CJN is the head of the National Judicial Council (NJC) which enforces discipline of judges. So, how would he perform this vital function, when he is also hobnobbing with politicians? Ariwoola must send the right signals to judges across the country.

Our Judges must resist temptations of politicians in order to interpret the law.

This is the only way forward for Nigeria’s democracy.

Condition Critical in Abia State

A

lecturer at the Abia State Polytechnic called me last Thursday to talk about the plight of the polytechnic’s staff. Here, many are walking corpses due to huge backlog of unpaid salaries. They can no longer fulfil obligations to their families. Children are out of school, while families are struggling for a meal a day.

Many of these workers are suffering from health challenges largely triggered by the months of unpaid salaries.

The situation at Abia Poly is replicated in all MDAs in Abia State, yet, the shameless governor of this state, Okezie Ikpeazu goes around with Governor Wike, drinking choice wines. At a point, Ikpeazu went on holiday in Spain with Wike while Abia civil servants were languishing in pain.

Workers in some MDAs are being owed as much as three years salaries.

In Abia State, even core civil servants and pensioners are being owed salaries and pension. The Ayuba Wabba-led NLC recently petitioned Ikpeazu, to protest the plight of the workers in the state.

Wabba said: “The list of infractions against workers in Abia State goes on and on. We call on the Abia State Government to invest the resources of the state in settling the huge arrears of unpaid salaries, allowances and other entitlements of workers and pensioners in the state rather than pursuing shadows in both public and private media within and outside the state.

“In the event that the Abia State Government continues to play the ostrich with the lives of workers and pensioners, the NLC will be left with no option than to deploy the full weight of the power of trade unions and workers in the country.”

Unfortunately, it was just an empty threat. Wabba is yet to implement any of the threats against Ikpeazu. He only issues threats on the pages of newspapers.

Nothing concrete happens thereafter.

Ikpeazu has succeeded in cowing the state’s NLC. In fact, the leadership of Abia NLC runs errands for this governor. It seems nobody can call Ikpeazu to order.

So, the suffering continues for Abia State workers. Ikpeazu continues living big while civil servants are dying in droves.

Others are struggling to stay alive. This is the height of man’s inhumanity to man.

This same Ikpeazu, who has ruined Abia State, is aspiring for the Senate.

What a country! Abians should respond appropriately with their votes. Ikpeazu must be shut down.

16

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER DECEMBER 3, 2022

PEOPLE Mary Ojulari

EuroCham Promotes Trade Investment Between Nigeria and Europe Mrs. Mary Ojulari is the Managing Director at Weststar Associates Limited (Mercedes-Benz Nigeria) and President of the European Business Chamber, EuroCham. As EuroCham President, she works with the directors of the Chamber to execute the association’s objectives and provide value to member companies.

She speaks to Samuel Ajayi on how 19 European companies launched the Chamber and why the government has to do something about insecurity to ease the process of doing business in the country

T

he European Business Chamber, EuroCham, was recently welcomed by the Nigerian business community. Tell us about entry into Nigeria and the role of the EuroCham Nigeria.

The European Business Chamber, EuroCham, was launched in Lagos by 19 European companies on the 4th of October, 2018. EuroCham’s primary role is to actively promote trade investment and exchanges between European and Nigerian businesses, raise awareness and present recommendations on particular issues of interest or concern to the organisation and its members In order to achieve its objectives, EuroCham has set up four working groups that assess and review specific subject areas affecting members’ business operations and organise strategic avenues for members to engage with stakeholders and experts, ensuring the success of all members in their various businesses.

There are currently four working groups: 1. the Finance Working Group, which deals with all matters relating to finance, foreign exchange matters, and taxation; 2. the Trading Across Borders Working Group which deals with matters relating to the import and export of goods; 3. the Sustainability Working Group which deals with issues relating to the impact of the EU Green Deal and carbon neutrality initiatives (net-zero); and more recently; the Human Resources and Skills Development Working Group. This working group has been set up to address key issues relating to human resources and the skills gap that we are currently experiencing in Nigeria as a consequence of the brain drain.

The concept of this chamber and its activities still seem quite foreign in Nigeria. Why is this so and what actions are being taken to help Nigerian businesses see you as the eyes, ears, and voice of the business community at EU level?

The EuroCham will be four years old in October 2022, which may be why it is considered fairly new. In these four years, however, the EuroCham has sought to actively promote trade, investment, and exchanges between European and Nigerian businesses and the governments of various levels in Nigeria. EuroCham facilitates engagement between its members and high-level stakeholders in Nigeria to gain insight into policy developments in the country. These high-level stakeholders’ engagement enables the EuroCham to present the challenges faced by European businesses, resulting in better business policies that are beneficial to European businesses operating in Nigeria.

To promote the EuroCham at the business community to the EU level, the EuroCham continuously engages with experts, policymakers, and stakeholders to examine policies and how these policies affect European businesses in Nigeria. Having established this objective, the EuroCham is working as an organisation to unite the voice of European companies in Nigeria, in terms of presenting issues faced by the EuroCham members while conducting business in Nigeria;

disseminate information promptly to its members; promote investment of European businesses in Nigeria; collate and present the influence of European trade volume to relevant authorities and support emerging European businesses in Nigeria, amongst other roles.

Nigeria has a huge population, which is good for business. The government has also put structures in place to support the ease of doing business, and public-private partnerships are one of the results of these efforts. How has the combination of this growing population and structures propelled investment in the country and socio-economic development?

A huge youth population is good for economic growth. In order to benefit from a growing population and translate that into economic growth, the government has to ensure that there is improved infrastructure and timely response to policies that would enhance trade and investment and, therefore, attract more foreign investments.

The huge youth population means that labour is available; we can begin to have the conversation around the level of skills available, but creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive is the first step to ensuring that as a government you remain attractive to investment.

The government continues to encourage public-private partnerships and a good illustration of this is the Jubilee Fellows Scheme, a youth empowerment program between the Federal Government and United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), guaranteed to train 20,000 youths and absorb them into the Nigerian workforce. In addition to the training program, more than half of the EuroCham members have pledged to absorb these skilled youths after they have completed their training under the scheme.

How many European businesses has EuroCham influenced and how much European business investments in Nigeria has the association facilitated?

EuroCham started with a membership strength of 19 companies but today, we can boast of 50 companies that are a part of the organisation.

The impact of EuroCham is quite immense and

Ojullarii Ojulari

to showcase our contributions, we are working with an independent financial firm to develop the EU Mapping Survey which will show the value of European companies to the Nigerian economy over a predefined period. The survey will cover areas of interest including the level of investments, investment climate, job creation, standards of operation, people development, environmental and social contribution. We want the government, policymakers, and influencers; the people who are the major stakeholders, to be able to see at a glance what the EuroCham has achieved as well as create a picture of what the EU companies seek to achieve in the future. The Survey is set to launch by the last quarter of the year and will be available to the press. It would be wonderful to be able to present to the world, in one document, our influence. And I tell you, it is quite huge.

Can you share examples of some of these businesses and in what capacity you facilitated their contribution to the development of the commerce landscape in Nigeria?

The achievements of the EuroCham member companies and their contributions to the Nigerian economy are enormous.

Some notable projects of EuroCham members include: Fan Milk Danone, launching its first model dairy farm, milk

To promote the EuroCham at the business community to the EU level, the EuroCham continuously engages with experts, policymakers, and stakeholders to examine policies and how these policies affect European businesses in Nigeria. Having established this objective, the EuroCham is working as an organisation to unite the voice of European companies in Nigeria

collection centre and dairy training institute, in collaboration with the Ogun State Government to partake in the Federal Government’s initiative on dairy backward integration under the National Livestock Transformation Programme to achieve food self-sufficiency.

Siemens AG, launching a 25,000-megawatt Presidential Power Initiative (PPI) to revamp Nigeria’s power sector: SIEMENS AG under the PPI would increase power supply to about 40 million Nigerians. In addition, the government has stated this project would create at least 11,000 direct and indirect jobs in Nigeria.

ENGIE Energy Access Nigeria has launched a 90KW Mini-Grid - their first in Nigeria, in Gbangba, Niger State. ENGIE is working to build another 119 mini-grids around Nigeria. This ambitious target will be very impactful for Nigerian businesses and households and EuroCham is very happy to support these projects in any way it can.

Arla Foods Nigeria, entering into a public-private partnership with the Kaduna State Government, to develop a long-term sustainable dairy industry with local farmers by helping 1,000 small-scale farmers create better livelihoods. Land will be set up for the farmers to permanently base themselves and have opportunities to expand their farms. This collaboration is set to work on a five-year scale period called the Milky Way Partnership to develop a socially, environmentally, and economically sustainable dairy value chain.

Recently, Fan Milk, Danone, a member of the Eurocham, inaugurated a model dairy farm to contribute to revolutionising the dairy industry.

Tell us more about the investment and EuroCham’s involvement. Should we expect more of such investments from other members of the EuroCham?

Fan Milk Danone has commissioned its model dairy farm and training institute in collaboration with the Ogun State government. This dairy farm which is Danone’s first investment in model dairy farming in Sub-Saharan Africa is aimed to improve the smal-holder farmer and community participation in dairy farming, with a target of 1.4 million producing litres of milk in the next 24 months. We look forward to the impact this model farm will have on the wider agriculture sector, especially development of best practices in dairy farming, regenerative agriculture and milk collection for local farmers.

Read full interview online - www.thisdaylive.com

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ APRIL 24, 2011

Obrikogho Uloho Family Threatened to Disown Me if I Married a White Woman

3

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER DECEMBER 3, 2022

18

PLUS

Obrikogho Uloho Family Threatened to Disown Me if I Married a White Woman Chief Obrikogho Miller Uloho is undoubtedly the foremost Estate Surveyor practising in the South-South zone of Nigeria.

A foundation member of the Nigeria Institution of Estate Surveyors andValuers, he turned 90 years on the ninth day of the ninth month this year.Yet his passion for the profession that brought him wealth, national recognition and peace of mind, has not waned. Although he has retired to his homestead, Ughelli in Delta State, he still oversees the activities of his firm, Uloho and Company spanning Edo, Delta and Rivers States. Sometime in December, family members from far and near, friends and professional colleagues will gather at his expansive Ughelli country home to celebrate his 90th birthday. Chief Uloho sat down with Sylvester Idowu to reflect on his 90 years on earth. Excerpts: What is it like celebrating 90th Birthday?

I believe that I am blessed. As a Christian, you are aware that it is said that the lifespan of a man is three scores and 10, that is 70 years.

I have crossed 70 and I have added 20 to that which I considered to be special blessing on me. So I am looking forward to that great day of celebration in December because the actual date of my birthday is September 9, 2022. That date, 9/9 is a special date but my children and well-wishers felt it will be more convenient for them to celebrate it in December. That is why we fixed 17th of December 2022 for the celebration, although on the 9th of September I got a lot of congratulatory adverts in various newspapers.

I am grateful to God. I am excited and looking forward to the actual celebration.

to which I now belonged and that they will continue with their scholarship but that at the end of it all I should not come to Ibadan again that but report at Benin, the capital of the new Midwest Region.

By 8th of January 1965, I got my election as a Chartered Surveyor of Great Britain, which qualifies me to practice real estate landed profession, anywhere in the world. So today, I am a Chartered Surveyor of Great Britain and when I returned to Nigeria, those of us who were pioneers in this profession came together and set up what is known today as Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyor and Valuers. So I am foundation member of that body.

Upon your return to Nigeria, what step did you take? Did you return to the ministry?

Yes, once you had the scholarship, you are bonded in those days to serve the government for five years before you are free. When I returned, the Ministry of Land and Housing knew they needed me so they also gave me in-service.

So, I had the moral and legal obligation to, not to just return to Nigeria, but to also go to the Ministry of Land and Housing. I could just have decided not to go and face the consequences but I returned to the Ministry and I started my work as a full Lands Officer from where I got my promotions.

Sir at 90, you still look energetic, you are not using walking stick. What is the secret ?

You are not fair if you say am looking energetic.

I am energetic! First, it is the grace of God. Then, I think it is the style of life because my father was only 54 years old when he died. Your lifestyle contributes to how long you will live, apart from accidents and so forth. I don’t smoke, I don’t drink and I eat my food with moderation and I don’t over overfeed . You will be surprised that at 90 my Blood Pressure is 120/80. So I don’t worry too much about anything. I take things as they come. I eat moderate food. I don’t drink and I don’t smoke. I smile at everybody. I have no enemies. I think that must be the secret of my looking young.

Can you give us a peep into your background. When and where you were born?

How was your growing up like?

I am Urhobo by tribe. I belong to the royal family of the Great Ughelli Kingdom and you know Ughelli system is promogenitious system of kingship, from father to first son and Uloho’s father was the second son so he couldn’t be the king.

His elder brother became the king, the second son became the Iyase or the prime minister of Ughelli kingdom. So that’s why we belong to the royal house. I was born in Ughelli but at age 5 I was taken to Warri by my uncle who brought me up in Warri. So, I am an Ughelli indigene but a Warri person by upbringing. I was in Warri, grew up there till I started elementary school there. I attended Government School Warri, then Government College in Ughelli. That was the time I came to Ughell. I was not known in Ughelli, until the time I came to Government College. After Government College Ughelli, in those days by the time I finished writing my school certificate, Labour Department sent me an invitation asking me to report at Ibadan in December 1957 for a job.

I went to Ibadan, went through the interview and I got the job. I was employed as the Inspector of Land in the Ministry of Land and Housing.

I was then planning to study Architecture or Engineering abroad but unfortunately I lost my father on February 25th, 1958, barely a year and few months after my school certificate. So, I gave up the idea of going abroad and decided to settle down. I resolved that if I want to live well, I have to work hard. I was working under the land office, which qualification is that you must get qualified as an Estate man. That was how I developed interest in Estate management.

The only place they were offering Estate Management in Nigeria then was the old Nigeria College of Arts, Science and Technology, Enugu campus. So I worked hard, gain admission to that Institute. It was only 25 people that were admitted every year and out of the 25, five were reserved for special area. Twenty were open to everyone including the area they reserved the five for. My belief, was that if it is even one person while should it not be me? So I worked

So at what point did you leave the Ministry of Lands and Housing?

I worked from April 1965 to 1970. Then I had my five years bond. Having completed the five years bond with them, then I was free to leave without any penalties. Then I made up my mind to leave the civil service and start my professional practice. So by September 1st 1971, I resigned.

I did not give one month notice but paid one month salary in lieu of notice and I left to set up my professional practice under the name of Uloho and Co, a firm of Estate Surveyors and Valuers located In Benin I commend the Western Region Civil Service.

It was the best I have ever seen in the world.

Throughout my stay in Nigeria and Britain, I never for one day reminded them of my allowance at the end of the month. It was there and when they transferred me to the then Midwest Region, they did not forget me. They wrote to me that when I finish, I should not come to Ibadan but go to Benin. They paid all my allowances. I lived like a Lord there in UK up to the last day. They sent me my ticket to return to Nigeria by air without reminding them one day.

I commend the Western Region Civil Service but I don’t know what it is now.

Chief Uloho

towards it and was lucky I got an admission to study Estate Management in Nigeria College, Enugu campus. And of course, I got western region scholarship. Not only that, the ministry where I worked needed me on completion of my studies, so they added in-service. So I was a fulltime scholar of Western Region Government and at the same in-service as far as Ministry of Land and Housing was concerned. So, when I have my full bursary as a full time scholar, I was also getting my salary. So I lived well. I therefore studied well and ended up in Britain.

I completed my course in the College of Estate Management, London in 1964.

By the nature of my studies, I have to do twoyear industrial training. So I have two options to do my two years industrial or do my two year studies before two year industrial which would have taken four years. But if you are hardworking

you can compress the 4 years into two years, which was what I did, That means that you have to go to the office, do your IT, take some time for your meal then you go back to the class. I was attached to Greater London Council, the (Violation Department of Greater London Council) and I worked there till 12. Close by 12, went to the restaurant, had my meal and by 2’0Clock I was in the College of Estate Management, and I went for my studies from 2pm to 8pm. By 8pm I find my way home, make meals then slept, very early in the morning I was up to get ready to go to the council to do my IT. So that was the routine and at the end of it all by the time I passed my final exams at the College of Estate Management, I have also completed my two years industrial training.

Before then, I got a letter from Ibadan congratulating me that a new region has been created,

What was your experience like to set up Uloho and Company?

It was not easy. I knew I was taking a leave into to somewhere I am not sure of my regular income as was guaranteed as a civil servant.

It was not easy but at the same time as I was leaving, a very close friend of mine, who was an engineer in Shell Marketing Company was constructing a filling station in Warri where I grew up and he said that I should apply as one of the people to manage the filling station, and I listened to his advice and applied and it was given to me. So at the time I was setting up my practices, I called my younger brother who is now in the United States to join me and he was the one running the filling station while I had time to build up my professional practice.

The two took place the same time. My brother was helping me, the little income from there sustained me and my family and I just told you my professional practice did not take off in time. I remembered the first brief I got was about oil spillage to make a claim against Shell

19

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER DECEMBER 3, 2022

PLUS So Globally, Things have Changed. These Days there is Lack of Respect for Elders, Lack of Respect for Tradition

Chief Uloho with Chief Paul Amrasavweriere

Petroleum Development Company (SPDC), after how many years since 1972 to this time I have not been paid that fees, because it was an agreement that when they pay the compensation, they will pay me. The lawyer through whom I got this job keeps on telling me it has not been paid until I gave up. It was not easy but after some time I pulled through.

I started getting jobs because by the time I finished with the civil service, I was in charge of all the State Land and I was renting houses in the new Midwest. By that time, I got in contact with a lot of big people and property owners. And when I resigned they were very excited because of the way I dealt with them, they decided to patronize me so they started using my company.

But before then, little was known of the practice of Estate Surveyor and Valuers. They all relied on government valuers. Government will decide what to pay you, but when we started private practice. It was not easy. After some years, the practice took off. So I have no cause to regret leaving the civil service .

Sir your firm is one of the notable firms in the Estate Management business and what brief would you consider as your breakthrough?

As I have told you I am one of the foundation members of the Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers and very few people were senior to me but it was not easy. The breakthrough came in the mid-1970s. The military government acquired all the schools in the states and then the proprietors ran to me, because many of them knew me, to prepare their claims against the government which I did successfully and that was the beginning of my breakthrough and then the government too started giving me a lot of assignments.

The military were probing some people and they wanted to know more, so they brought me in. I was carrying out valuation, representing people. After sometime, I was picked by the Federal Government as one of the 11 men in a panel called Land Use Panel. Many of us were picked from the country - lawyers, accountants, geographers to determine, look critically into the land tenure system of Nigeria and to come out with a recommendation of how we should be able to settle the problem with the land tenure system. It was under Obasanjo Regime in 1977 and I was a member of the 11-man committee. After months of diligence, visiting all the traditional rulers in Nigeria, we went to Kano.

We were locked up there to write our report.

After writing our report, there was a majority report and a minority. Ten of us agreed that the

land tenure system of Nigeria was interwoven with the tradition and customs of the Nigeria.

So it should not be tampered with it. We made useful recommendations to solve the problem of land tenure system in this county. We came up with that but only one man wrote a minority report saying that government should go and take over all the land and when we finished the report, the federal government circulated all the reports to all the 12 states for their comments and I believed that the comments were favourably in support of the majority report but government got a wind, that the states were backing the majority report and because they had their own agenda on what they wanted to do, they just went ahead to promulgate the Land Use Decree of 1978 unifying the whole land system so that government can take over all land .

I think this was meant to bring the southern tenant system in line with that of the north. Olusegun Obasanjo was the head of state but Musa Yar’Adua was handling the affairs. Years after, when I met with the man who wrote the minority report , I said you had your way, government have taken over freehold of all the land in the country and what is your feelings? The man said, I must confess, I did not know it was going to be like that. He now regrets his coming up with his minority recommendation. You can see that Nigeria has created more problems in the land tenure system in this country than what it was and they put the 1978 decree into the constitution before handing over to civilians, so that we cannot remove it and it is creating more problems now.

Let’s look into your family now, when did you marry and how many children do you have?

Having lost my father very early, I made up my mind that until I am qualified and get a good job, good home, I will not get married. That was my pledge but when I got to Britain, something happened. I fell in love with a Manchester girl, I sent a letter to my family that I wanted to get married but my family refused that they will not allow me to get married to a white girl. I was threatened that if I did I should not only change my name but I should not come back home. I told the English girl and she accepted my family’s stance.

But when I came back, I got a job and was living very comfortably, it was then I met my wife and got married and today I have 10 children, four boys and six girls. But do you know the interesting thing? My younger brother who helped me to manage the filling station before going to America to study ended up marrying a

white woman. Even my own daughter I sent to Britain ended up marrying a white man, the same opportunity I was denied but I am very happy for them because they have three children each.

Do you have only one wife?

No. After marrying my wife in Warri, 12 years later, I got married to a second wife. The first wife, Mukoro Mowoe’s daughter has six children and the second one from Isoko has four children.

After 90 years, do you feel fulfilled?

What do I need again? I pity those who rely on pensions. I am more than fulfilled. I am very comfortable. What do I need again? I have everything. I have good cars, drivers, cook and housekeeper. Not one, two, three cars, I have them. I eat what I want to eat and my children are backing me up.

Looking back now, is there anything you ought to have done that you did not do?

I don’t think so. That’s a million naira question.

Apart from my professional practice, I told you I have some investments. I have a hotel and also a managing partner of Uloho and Co in Benin.

I got married, trained all my children. They are all graduates and they are living well. I have settled for community service. Now I am the most senior chief in Ughelli Kingdom I don’t think I have any cause to complain. That will be unthankful to God. If you look at the era in which you grew up and now, do you think there are a lot of changes?

There are a lot of changes. But the way I look at it is that, we should not look at Nigeria in isolation of what is happening in the world. We are too much in a hurry. We are the architect of our misfortunes. People go abroad and see good roads and others. People worked there to enjoy. They should come back home and replicate same. We are not being fair and people have misruled this country.

Also, people are more knowledgeable today.

You cannot tell a child sit down there without that child not questioning you why. So globally, things have changed. These days there is lack of respect for elders, lack of respect for tradition.

Everything has deteriorated. So it is left for us to see what we can do.

Late Gamaliel Onosode was your very close friend. When he died, you felt really bad?

Yes, he was a fellow Ughelli man. I felt bad and

You are not fair if you say am looking energetic. I am energetic! First, it is the grace of God. Then, I think it is the style of life because my father was only 54 years old when he died. Your lifestyle contributes to how long you will live, apart from accidents and so forth. I don’t smoke, I don’t drink and I eat my food with moderation and I don’t over overfeed . You will be surprised that at 90 my Blood Pressure is 120/80. So I don’t worry too much about anything. I take things as they come. I eat moderate food. I don’t drink and I don’t smoke.

I smile at everybody. I have no enemies I still miss him. We attended the same Government College, Ughelli together. When he was the President General Worldwide and I was the Vice President. My hands were full. Apart from my professional practice, my hands were full with community service. He was an Ughelli man. When he was down and was abroad, we were communicating. I still miss him but we can’t query God. We must also accept that death leaves a painful memory.

You are so passionate about Government College Ughelli?

Do you know what? In my hotel in Warri, I told them that any government college activities taking place there should be free and whenever I am in the office and if somebody come and say he is from Government College, let him come in and I will attend to him. Right now, I am developing a park in Government College Ughelli. The fence you see around Government College today I initiated it. I am also serving Rotary and my community services.

What messages do you have for the younger ones in your profession?

They should tap the resources in the profession but the unfortunate thing is that the young ones are too much in a hurry. There are good ones but too many bad ones. My advice is that they should be patient and professional. They should be knowledgeable people in order for them to live a comfortable life and not to scam people.

20

SATURDAY DECEMBER 3, 2022 • T H I S D AY

SATURDAY DECEMBER 3, 2022 • T H I S D AY

21

22

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER DECEMBER 3, 2022

Ferdinand Ekechukwu 08035011394 Email: ferdi_adthisday@yahoo.com

SHOWBIZFLAIR

Different Worlds Collide in ‘Far from Home’ Ferdinand Ekechukwu

O

n December 16, 2022, ‘Far from Home’, 1LJHULD·V ÀUVW <RXQJ $GXOW VHULHV FUHDWHG DQG SURGXFHG E\ ,QNEORW 3URGXFWLRQV ZLOO ODXQFK H[FOXVLYHO\ RQ WKH 1HWÁL[ VWUHDPLQJ SODWIRUP $QG ZLWK WKH UHOHDVH RI ¶)DU )URP +RPH· WKH ZRUOG ZLOO EH LQWURGXFHG WR VHYHUDO \RXQJ WDOHQWHG DFWRUV ZKR VWDU LQ WKH QHZ 'UDPD 7KULOOHU VHULHV :ULWWHQ E\ 'DPL (OHEH ¶)DU IURP +RPH· IROORZV WKH VWRU\ RI ,VKD\D 0LNH $IRODULQ D FKDULVPDWLF WHHQDJHU DQG WDOHQWHG DUWLVW IURP D SRRU IDPLO\ +LV GUHDPV VXGGHQO\ DSSHDU ZLWKLQ UHDFK ZKHQ D SUHVWLJLRXV VFKRODUVKLS WR WKH PRVW H[FOXVLYH VFKRRO LQ WKH FRXQWU\ FDWDSXOWV KLP LQWR WKH D΁XHQW ZRUOG RI 1LJHULD·V HOLWH $OO WKH ZKLOH D KXJH VHFUHW WKUHDWHQV ,VKD\D·V QHZIRXQG VWDWXV DQG XOWLPDWHO\ KLV IDPLO\·V VDIHW\ 7KH XSFRPLQJ WLWOH EOHQGV DQ H[FLWLQJ

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

LQ WKH VXFFHVVIXO 1HWÁL[ DQG (ERQ\ /LIH VHULHV ¶%ORRG 6LVWHUV· ZKLFK ZDV UHOHDVHG HDUOLHU WKLV \HDU DQG DPDVVHG PLOOLRQ YLHZHUV LQ LWV ÀUVW ZHHN RI UHOHDVH LV KRSLQJ IRU VRPHWKLQJ VLPLODU ZLWK ¶)DU )URP +RPH· ´,·P VR JUDWHIXO %ORRG 6LVWHUV KDV EHHQ UHDOO\ LQFUHGLEOH IRU P\ FDUHHU , VWLOO UHFHLYH PHVVDJHV IURP SHRSOH DOO RYHU WKH ZRUOG ZKR VDZ LW DQG ORYHG 7LPH\LQ KHU FKDUDFWHU µ VKH VDLG &RQWLQXLQJ ´2Q RXU QHZ VKRZ ¶)DU )URP +RPH· , SOD\ =LQD D WHHQDJHU ZKR LV FRQÀGHQW DQG D IUHH VSLULW 6KH LV OR\DO DQG RXWVSRNHQ DQG , FDQ·W ZDLW IRU \RX WR PHHW KHU ¶)DU )URP +RPH· LV D VSHFLDO DPD]LQJ VKRZ ZH FDQQRW ZDLW WR VKDUH LW ZLWK \RXµ 7KHVH \RXQJ VWDUV DUH PRUH WKDQ UHDG\ IRU WKHLU JOREDO GHEXW RQ 'HFHPEHU DQG WKH RSSRUWXQLW\ WR SXW WKH VSRWOLJKW RQ 1LJHULD :LWK WKH JOREDO XQYHLOLQJ RI WKLV VOHZ RI \RXQJ WDOHQWHG DFWRUV 1HWÁL[ DQG ,QNEORW 3URGXFWLRQV ZLOO SURYH WKDW Genoveva Umeh WDOHQW LV LQGHHG XQLYHUVDO )RU 1HWÁL[ LQ 1LJHULD WKH PDQGDWH KDV DOZD\V EHHQ KDV VRXJKW WR HPSRZHU LWV· SDUWQHUV WR ORFDO ÀUVW ,Q OLQH ZLWK WKLV WKH VWUHDPHU GR VR LQ WKHLU LQGLJHQRXV PDUNHWV

Icegrin Returns with “For the Girls” Ferdinand Ekechukwu

7

Icegrin

KH JOREDO PXVLF VFDSH LV UHSOHWH ZLWK EXGGLQJ DQG EXUJHRQLQJ WDOHQWV VFDWWHUHG DFURVV FRQWLQHQWV QD\ $IULFD 2QH RI WKHP LV ¶,FHJULQ· %RUQ &KLJR]LH 2OHZXQQH ¶,FHJULQ· LV DPRQJ WKH YDQJXDUG RI WDOHQWHG QHZFRPHUV LQ 1LJHULD·V PXVLF FLUFOH $IWHU GHEXWLQJ ZLWK KLV H[WHQGHG SOD\ (3 GXEEHG ¶0LQGVHW· HDUOLHU WKLV \HDU WKH \RXQJ VLQJHU EDJJHG D

GHDO ZLWK WKH %UD]LOLDQ UHFRUG ODEHO .RQG]LOOD 7KH VLQJHU ZKR LV DOVR EDVHG LQ %UD]LO LV QRWDEOH IRU KLV OLJKWKHDUWHG O\ULFLVP DQG JRVSHOV RI ORYH DQG KXVWOH ¶7DNH PH WR 6RGRP DQG *RPRUUDK <HVX 1R UHWUHDW RU VXUUHQGHU IRU P\ FDVH RK · WKH EUHH]\ DQG OXVWIXO HQHUJ\ WKDW VHHSV IURP WKH UHFRUG LV DV H[FLWLQJ DV WKH ZLQG DQG SHUFXVVLYH LQVWUXPHQWV WKDW EULQJ WKH VRQJ WR OLIH )RU ¶,FH*ULQ· LW LV D FDQGRXU ÀOOHG PRPHQW RQ WKH MXVW UHOHDVHG ´)RU 7KH

*LUOV µ D PLG WHPSR ERS DERXW KLV URPDQWLF GHVLUHV DQG IDQWDVLHV ,Q ´)RU 7KH *LUOV µ ,FH *ULQ URXQGV RͿ WKH \HDU ZLWK DQ LPSUHVVLYH ÀQLVK ,Q WKH 1HJR : SURGXFHG MDP ,FHJULQ FRQWLQXHV WR GULIW RQ \RXWKIXO WKHPHV FUHDWLQJ VRQJV WR VHUHQDGH QRWDEOH PRPHQWV WKDW VKRXOG OLYH RQ LQ RQH·V PHPRULHV :KLOH )RU 7KH *LUOV PLJKW VHHP OLNH D DOLFKH QDUUDWLYH ,FHJULQ·V GHOLYHU\ DQG WKH VRRWKLQJ DXUD IURP WKH VRQJ XSV WKH UHSOD\ YDOXH DQG HQMR\DELOLW\ RI WKLV VRQJ $ PRRG OLIWLQJ JHP ´)RU 7KH *LUOVµ LV RXW DFURVV VWUHDPLQJ SODWIRUPV KHUH

‘Beauty West Africa Exhibition’ Ends with Pomp

7

KLV \HDU·V HGLWLRQ RI WKH %HDXW\ :HVW $IULFD ([KLELWLRQ FDPH WR D FORVH RQ 7KXUVGD\ 'HFHPEHU DW WKH /DQGPDUN &HQWUH 9LFWRULD ,VODQG DPLGVW SXPSV DQG SDJHDQWU\ ,W UHFRUGHG D KXJH WXUQRXW RI ORFDO DQG LQWHUQDWLRQDO H[KLELWRUV DQG YLVLWRUV ZKR PRYHG IURP RQH ERRWK WR DQRWKHU LQ VHDUFK RI EHDXW\ SURGXFWV RI WKHLU FKRLFH 6SHDNLQJ ZLWK MRXUQDOLVWV -DPLH +LOO 0DQDJLQJ 'LUHFWRU RI %WR% (YHQWV /LPLWHG RUJDQLVHUV RI WKH H[KLELWLRQ VDLG RYHU H[KLELWRUV ZHUH DW WKH YHQXH WR VKRZFDVH WKHLU EHDXW\ SURGXFWV +H VDLG ´:H KDYH D UHFRUG QXPEHU RI H[KLELWRUV KHUH WKLV \HDU $QG ,·P SURXG WR VD\ WKDW ZH KDYH D UHFRUG QXPEHU RI 1LJHULDQ H[KLELWRUV KHUH EHFDXVH ZH DUH WU\LQJ WR GR RXU EHVW WR SURPRWH WKH ¶0DGH LQ 1LJHULD· EUDQG DQG SURPRWH H[SRUWLQJ IURP 1LJHULD WR RWKHU (&2:$6 VWDWHV ´:H QRZ DUH R΀FLDOO\ WKH ODUJHVW SURIHV-

VLRQDO EHDXW\ H[KLELWLRQ DFURVV WKH $IULFDQ FRQWLQHQW WKDW PDNHV PH YHU\ YHU\ SURXG 6R IURP DQ H[KLELWRU SRLQW RI YLHZ , DP YHU\ SOHDVHG ZLWK WKH WXUQRXW :H KDYH H[SDQGHG RYHU WKH WKUHH KDOOV RI WKH /DQGPDUN &HQWUH IRU WKH ÀUVW WLPH $QG DV , VDLG ZH KDYH D UHFRUG QXPEHU RI UHJLVWUDWLRQV RI SHRSOH FRPLQJ DORQJ DQG ZH MXVW KRSH WKDW WKH\ FRPH DORQJ WR YLVLW ,W LV IUHH LI WKH\ KDYH UHJLVWHUHG 2Q WKH H[KLELWLRQ ZH KDYH RYHU H[KLELWRUV VKRZFDVLQJ WKHLU SURGXFWV µ 2Q ZKDW WKH ÀUP KRSHV WR DFKLHYH ZLWK WKH H[KLELWLRQ +LOO QRWHG WKDW H[KLELWLRQV KDYH EHHQ IXQGDPHQWDO WR WKH JURZWK RI HFRQRPLHV DOO RYHU WKH ZRUOG VLQFH WKH SRVW :RUOG :DU ,, GD\V DGGLQJ WKDW DIWHU WKH &29,' SDQGHPLF WKH ZRUOG KDV FKDQJHG TXLWH D ORW ´(FRQRPLF FRQGLWLRQV DUH GL΀FXOW GXH WR YDULRXV UHDVRQV DQG DQ H[KLELWLRQ LV D IDQWDVWLF RSSRUWXQLW\ IRU EX\HUV DQG VHOOHUV WR FRPH WRJHWKHU DQG GULYH WKH PDUNHW WKH EXVLQHVV DQG WKH LQGXVWU\ IRUZDUG ² LQ WKLV

FDVH WKH EHDXW\ LQGXVWU\ ´, WKLQN LW ZDV ODVW PRQWK WKDW RQH RI RXU SDUWQHUV WKH 1LJHULDQ $VVRFLDWLRQ RI &RVPHWLF 6FLHQWLVWV GLVFORVHG WKDW WKH EHDXW\ LQGXVWU\ LQ 1LJHULD ZDV YDOXHG DW 1 WULOOLRQ DV DW 6R LI \RX KDYH VXFK D KXJH LQGXVWU\ , WKLQN LW·V ULJKW IRU LW WR EH VHUYLFHG %HDXW\ :HVW $IULFD KDV RUJDQLVHG WKLV H[KLELWLRQ DV D SODWIRUP IRU WKH H[SHUWV WR FRPH WRJHWKHU DQG GLVFXVV SHUVSHFWLYHV NQRZOHGJH VKDULQJ DQG DOVR GR VRPH EXVLQHVVHV DQG GULYH WKH *'3 DQG WKH HFRQRP\ IRUZDUG µ +LOO DGGHG +H UHYHDOHG WKDW WKH FRPSDQ\ ZDV ORRNLQJ IRUZDUG WR LQWURGXFLQJ QHZV LGHDV LQWR WKH H[KLELWLRQ LQ WKH FRPLQJ \HDUV QRWLQJ KRZHYHU WKDW WKH ÀUP ZDV SOHDVHG ZLWK WKH FXUUHQW FRQWHQW RI WKH H[KLELWLRQ DQG ZRXOG IROORZ XS LQ (DUOLHU LQ KLV ZHOFRPH OHWWHU WKH ([KLELWLRQ 0DQDJHU %HDXW\ :HVW $IULFD %WR% (YHQWV .HQ %DEHU H[SODLQHG WKDW WKH H[KLELWLRQ ´LV D RQFH D \HDU RSSRUWXQLW\ IRU WKH EHDXW\

DQG FRVPHWLFV VHFWRU RI :HVW $IULFD WR FRPH WRJHWKHU QHWZRUN IRUJH QHZ RSSRUWXQLWLHV GLVFXVV EHVW SUDFWLFH DQG RI FRXUVH GR EXVLQHVV µ &RPPHQWLQJ RQ WKH HYHQW RQH RI WKH H[KLELWRUV )HUR]H .KDQ RI $KPHG $O 0DJKULEL 3HUIXPHV 8QLWHG $UDE (PLUDWHV GHVFULEHG WKH $IULFDQ FRQWLQHQW DV RQH RI WKH EHVW LQ WKH ZRUOG VD\LQJ WKH ÀUP ZDV ORRNLQJ IRUZDUG WR D JUHDW UHVSRQVH IURP WKH $IULFDQ PDUNHW $QRWKHU H[KLELWRU &KHH /HH RI WKH *OREDO 7HDP 2·8 ,QWHUQDWLRQDO 6RXWK .RUHD VDLG ´2XU EUDQG LV 2QH GD\·V \RX , ZRUN LQ WKH JOREDO EXVLQHVV WHDP :H SURGXFH VHYHQ GLͿHUHQW FDWHJRULHV RI VNLQ FDUH SURGXFWV :H DUH ULJKW QRZ VHOOLQJ WKH EHVW LQ -DSDQ :H DUH ORRNLQJ DW H[SDQGLQJ LQWR GLͿHUHQW FRXQWULHV :H DUH WU\LQJ WR SHQHWUDWH LQWR WKH $IULFDQ PDUNHW WKLV LV RXU ÀUVW WLPH RI FRPLQJ WR 1LJHULD 6R ZH DUH ORRNLQJ IRU RSSRUWXQLWLHV ZH DUH ORRNLQJ IRU GLVWULEXWRUV DQG EX\HUV LQ 1LJHULD µ

Rap is Not Dead, MI Slams Wizkid

R

DSSHU -XGH $EDJD SRSXODUO\ NQRZQ DV 0, KDV UHDFWHG WR FRPPHQWV E\ $IUREHDWV VWDU :L]NLG ZKR VDLG UDS PXVLF ZDV GHDG ,Q DQ LQWHUYLHZ ODVW 7KXUVGD\ :L]NLG KDLOHG WKH JURZWK RI WKH $IUREHDWV PXVLF LQ WKH LQWHUQDWLRQDO VFHQH ZKLOH DOVR WDNLQJ D GLJ DW KLV UDSSHU FROOHDJXHV :L]NLG VWDWHG WKDW DVLGH IURP $IUREHDWV KH GRHV QRW OLVWHQ WR DQ\ RWKHU JHQUH SDUWLFXODUO\ UDS EHFDXVH PRVW VRQJV SURGXFHG LQ WKH JHQUH ZHUH ´ERULQJ µ

+H VDLG ´,I ,·P EHLQJ KRQHVW , GRQ·W OLVWHQ WR DQ\ RWKHU JHQUH RI PXVLF DQ\PRUH , GRQ·W OLVWHQ WR UDS WKDW VK W LV ERULQJ WR PH ,W·V GHDG QRZ LW·V WLUHG 7KHVH JX\V GR WKH VDPH VK W UDS RQ WKH VDPH EHDWV VDPH ÁRZV µ +H KRZHYHU DGGHG ´1R GLVUHVSHFW WR QRERG\ , GRQ·W KDYH DQ\WKLQJ DJDLQVW UDS RU DQ\ RWKHU W\SH RI PXVLF , KDYH D ORW RI UDSSHUV DV IULHQGV OLNH D ORW 6R ,·P SUREDEO\ WKH ZURQJ SHUVRQ WR VD\ WKLV µ 5HDFWLQJ WR WKH UHPDUN 0, RQH RI WKH SLRQHHUV RI 1LJHULDQ UDS VWDWHG WKDW ZKLOH PRVW UDSSHUV

KDG QRW JDLQHG SRSXODULW\ WKH KLS KRS VFHQH ZDV ORRNLQJ SURPLVLQJ DW WKH PRPHQW +H WZHHWHG \HVWHUGD\ ´7KH HQHUJ\ DURXQG +,3 +23 ULJKW QRZ IHHOV ULJKW , NQRZ PRVW UDSSHUV DUH VWLOO QRW WKH PRVW SRSXODU \HW EXW ULJKW QRZ LV WLPH IRU XV WR IRFXV RQ WKH FUDIW MXVW NHHS JHWWLQJ EHWWHU WKLV \HDU ZH GLG VR ZHOO DV D JHQUH DQG QH[W \HDU ZH JURZ µ +H DOVR PHQWLRQHG QDPHV RI UDSSHUV LQ WKH LQGXVWU\ LQFOXGLQJ WKH 6'& GXR )DO] 9HFWRU /DGLSRH %ODTERQHV $MHER KXVWOHUV ,FHSULQFH DQG KDLOHG WKHP IRU SXWWLQJ LQ WKH ZRUN WR MI IXUWKHU HVWDEOLVK WKH JHQUH

23

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER DECEMBER 3, 2022

SHOWBIZFLAIR

Larissa Tejiri: Why I Sacrificed My Relationship for Career From self-doubt to bubbling Nollywood actress, Larissa Tejiri Onomuaborigho has established a presence in Nollywood. Beyond enthralling her fans on screen, Larissa is widely travelled, and from her travelling lenses, she entertains her audience with scenic beauty worldwide. In this interview with Chinedu Ibeabuchi, she opens on her craft and love for travelling

A

career in Acting. Why? I love the idea of bringing to life a completely different personality of oneself and making it believable. I love the act of filmmaking and the versatility of being an actor. Cliché, but I think I have so much passion for art.

a children, paedophiles like ‘The D Day’ on and Y YouTube, trafficking, history, and culture to help others navigate life better and hopefully, to make o tthe world a better place. I still have a long way to go, but I will surely leave a mark on this world. g Could you tell us about your social and love llife?

My social life is great. I love being outdoors a socialising with people. My love life is great. I and have h loved, and I have lost. In all, love is Beautiful.

Can you share some of the movies you have featured in?

Life happened, Amanda’s clock, private matters, May 27th, Girls Hustle, When Love Comes Calling, Seducing Mr Perfect, etc.

Nollywood is fast growing, not just in quantity of production, but quality. What gaps do you think we still need to fill to complete more favourably globally?

As you know, we’re doing so well already. Still, I would suggest originality in our craft, culture, and language and a well-regulated befitting payment plan for actors and crew members. Lastly, we should learn to appreciate talent over popular demand by embracing new talents. It gives room for untapped talent to showcase themselves.

What yardstick do you use to judge a good movie?

The story, interpretation of the character and good post-production work (imaging/sound) Stories with educative moral lessons.

Can we get a hint about your aspirations?

To become a universal Actor. Meaning I get to do what I love the most (travelling) whilst following my passion (movies) You are widely travelled. What memorable experience can you share as a Nigerian in a foreign land? Any cultural shock?

Yes. The versatility of the world amazes me.

Cultural differences, language beliefs, food, music (it’s how I can enjoy this music without even knowing what they mean). I can go on and on but travelling made me realise that I have never seen anything yet, and one can’t know everything.

What do you enjoy most each time you travel?

How would you describe your style?

I am an elegantly razz girl.

Larissa

Learning a new culture, seeing places I never thought existed, and making memories. Life is beautiful. God made a masterpiece called earth.

What memories of your childhood days do you love the most?

Christmas, being provided for (adulthood no easy), children’s church on Sundays and all my childhood friends, it is safe to say I made better friends then than now.

Is acting paying your bills?

Partly yes. Mostly my side hustle (business) and my parent.

How do you want to be remembered?

I want to be remembered as a good person.

Secondly, is to be remembered for telling beautiful stories, whether as an actor or producer. I want to make movies that will still impact people’s lives years after I’m gone. That’s why from my productions, I tackle sensitive topics like rape stories, domestic violence against men, women

How did your acting career start?

I attended a film school, Royal Art Academy, in i 2018 and got my first lead role in a series and other roles and boom! It went on and on. o How did you get your first role?

It was a dream come through. I was in directing class at a film school, and I was called upon by c one o of the staff that they’d need a student for a minor role in a movie called ‘Seducing Mr Perfect’, and I had been picked. I knew little or P nothing about acting. I was super excited and n nervous, but I got it done. n And what kind of actress would you love to be remembered for?

I want to be remembered as a fierce actor who embodied all her roles, and I’ll like my passion for the craft to speak for me through my movies.

Before delving into Nollywood, what were you doing?

Nothing. I had just graduated from university, jumped into film school, and kicked in.

What would you say is your greatest sacrifice to become an actress?

My relationship at that time. I saw that he wouldn’t be by my side if I had decided not to let go of that career choice, so I made a choice and picked my career.

What would you describe as your memorable moment so far?

It was the early stages of my career. I constantly had cold feet on set, unable to hold in my lines because I doubted myself.

Tell us about your challenges in Amanda’s Clock.

I had to lose weight, practice harder, research

actors who played similar characters, etc.

Are there plans to explore stage performance?

I am open to that. I love stage performances.

Any support from your loved ones, mostly your parents?

They are very supportive. I was motivated to become an actress by my mom. First, her reactions to when I do drama activities in the church, end-of-year parties and when I told her I wanted to be an actress, she supported me all the way and lastly, she’s a Nollywood lover.

What is your biggest fear in life?

Not being successful.

There have been many stories about sexual harassment in the film industry. What is your experience?

I can tell you that I have never in my five years experienced any harassment. Neither from producers, actors nor directors never.

Describe your dream man He should be God-fearing, kind, and rich When you are not on set, how do you spend your time?

Travelling the world and attending to my minor businesses, and producing content for YouTube Is there any project you are working on now?

Yes. I plan on doing my masters in Canada and working on fifteen short films for my YouTube Channel.

Take us into your growing-up days, pranks as a child, and how pranks landed you into trouble.

I never liked pranks, And I punched a friend who pranked me in primary school. I was that sensitive, but now I am the best prankster among my friends.

Do you think it is possible to find love in the movie industry?

Falling in love is never planned, they say. But I can categorically say I’m in love with someone not in the industry.

What is your assessment of the entertainment industry?

I’ll say we’ve evolved. I am proud of our industry. We are still growing, and for that, I am proud to be a thespian.

Achievas Hosts ‘Beer with us’ Festival Juwce Releases Liquor EP Tosin Clegg

Tosin Clegg

F

RUHPRVW HQWHUWDLQPHQW RXWÀW Achievas Entertainment has announced the debut edition of a brand-new raving music festival tagged “Beer With Us Festival”.

The concert is scheduled for January 6, 2023 at the Landmark Leisure Beach, Victoria Island, Lagos with performances from rave of the moment artistes, surprise international artist and a host of remarkable DJs. 7KH (QWHUWDLQPHQW RXWÀW·V H[HFXWLYHV Chiori Daniel Cole and Paul Cole Chiori disclosed that all hands are currently on deck towards putting out a standard concert that the Achievas brand is known for and associated with.

Shedding more insight to the event, Daniel said, “While we keep the names of the performing artistes under wrap for now; the concert is one that music lovers should anticipate as it promises to be the biggest music festival in Naija.”

Speaking further, he stated that guests can get a premium boat pickup from any of the jetties from Ikoyi to VGC and an opportunity to enjoy entertainment under a lush space

F

Chiori Cole

with a beautiful ocean view.

Achievas Entertainment are producers of the biggest and highest grossing concerts in Nigeria, from Olamide Live in concert (Season 1-3), Davido 30 Billion Concert (30BG), Burnaboy Live, Kizz Daniel Live, Buju Sorry I’M Late concert amongst others.

ast rising act, Onwukwe Franklyn Chinedu professionally known, as Juwce has released his new body of work titled “Liquor EP” consisting of 10 tracks.

Juwce believes that his new EP and new record label deal will further strengthen his music career and put him on a strong footing in the industry. According to the singer who recently signed a management deal with Richie Music Empire, he said making quality and relatable music would be the hallmark of his career as he continues to build his name for himself.

The Imo State-born Afrobeats singer said, “I am excited about the growth of my career and the positive comments I have been receiving. The signs are looking great and I am sure that the songs on the EP will put my career on another level.

“The festive season is looking very busy for me and my team now that I have joined Richie Music Empire.”

Juwce

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER DECEMBER 3, 2022

24

POLITY GREG IBE

My Quest to Serve Abia is Divine The Abia State Governorship candidate of the All-Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), who is also the Chancellor and founder of Gregory University Uturu-Okigwe in Abia State, Professor Greg Ibe spoke with NDUKA NWOSU on why his quest to be the next Governor of Abia State is divine. Excerpts:

P

rofessor Gregory Ibe has an impeccable record in sharing his craft as a knowledge merchant, which he has generously distributed in the education sector over the years. His track record of achievements is there in the public space for everyone to see.

In his own way, Ibe has made his impact in the polity quietly, and un-publicised whether with the United Nations or with the private and public sectors of the country he has hugely impacted on, in the business of knowledge distillation, such that speaking about it now seems like recounting the history of a past civilisation..

Lest we forget, in the 1980s, Ibe was working with other stakeholders of Imo State, to get many projects needed to put Imo on an even trajectory with other states in the country. One such project was the construction of Imo State Airport where he played a significant role.

The runway or tarmac was one section of the airport he put his skill to work on and can proudly say it still stands the test of time and durability coming from his stable as a trustworthy contractor of big-ticket projects.

When Abia State was carved out of Imo State, Ibe was involved in several projects which were again designed to make the state a model among other states in the country. If it failed to be one, do not hold him responsible however, he was central in bringing Abia State University into a modern state university in terms of content of study of professional courses, especially the Abia State University Teaching Hospital (ABSUTH).

Fast-forward Ibe’s philosophy of dealing with transformational projects and ideas with a milestone impact in the administration of President Olusegun Obasanjo in his second incarnation as Head of State, and you would be talking of a man who leaves his footprints in the annals of history in a unique way. Ibe’s civil service reform using the laid down templates of the United Nations under the UNDP and the World Bank, working in the office of Ufot Ekaette, then Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), was revolutionary. Says Ibe: “I did a lot of jobs in the UNDP on human capital development; we did so much on healthcare and agriculture, I worked on export of produce. I was everywhere working, and Mr. President had a listening ear because he knew that being involved in the UN with him, meant that all the best practices would be implemented in all the ministries. We as a people have what it takes to create MDAs that meet global standards as prescribed by the UN through its agencies and as other nations of the world are doing, using prescribed best practices.”

In the education sector, his organisation Skill G succeeded in making sure that all the universities and polytechnics in the country were well equipped noting that Skill G offers engineering and technology-based subjects according to the curriculum of each university. Skill G has done that in education; we have done it withthe Unity Schools.

Skill G, he claims, has revamped the study of mathematics and science subjects noting that, “at a point in 2005 and 2006, we were teaching how to write software to all the Unity Schools and other secondary schools in the country, including teachers.

“There are lots of things that I did under President Obasanjo, and which have proven to be the best way for Nigeria. He is the man who saw tomorrow. I am always glad and happy that I succeeded with my boss who gave me the opportunity to bring out the best in his government.”

As far as the APGA candidate is concerned, history will be fair to him looking back into his archive of achievements especially now he has thrown his hat in the gubernatorial ring of Abia State where he believes he has sown the seed of revolutionary growth, the type of growth he is sure will take Abia to the next level of development that will make it regain all that it lost through bad governance since the return of Democracy under the Fourth Republic.

The chronicle of Ibe’s pluses remains formidable but what is interesting is the fact that the UN/UNDP consultant is standing on the platform of the All-Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) to contest the governorship trophy. Ibe explains this is a divine assignment, a continuation of God’s prompting regarding the work He asked him to execute. He insists Abia has for too long suffered serious setbacks because of bad governance. His mission, he explains, is to rewrite the status quo on a positive note with a covenant of making the deliverables of good governance to the people.

As he put it in an earlier interview, Abia has a unique

Ibe

The key governorship candidates, Alex Otti of Labour Party, Uche Ikonne of the PDP, and the APC candidate, are big masquerades. Regardless, none of these names has added value to Abia the way I have done positioning surrounded by seven states at the heart of the Southeast and South-South, surrounded by a sea in need of dredging. He adds: “Abia State has what it takes to attract investors of diverse types, yet we have not been able to take advantage of that considering our enormous resources. We were at a point called the Japan of Africa, but we keep going down in performance ranking by the day.

“The challenges are enormous in terms of reversing this trend on a growth level that will connect with who we are known to be. We did not come here by chance or fluke and if we are not to be downgraded, we must brace up for the challenges of the future.”

Ibe knows what the challenges of the future of Abia are, given the fact he is one stakeholder who has been on the ground working for the state from inception. In 2019, he threw his hat into the ring and was asked to make haste slowly given the Abia Charter of Equity on zoning among the three senatorial zones.

The Abia North candidate believes his time has come.

When asked what was his take on the key governorship candidates in the state-Dr. Alex Otti of Labour Party, Professor Uche Ikonne of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and Ikechi Emenike of the All-Progressives Congress (APC), Ibe acknowledges the names mentioned are big masquerades, stakeholders in the Abia project. Regardless, he adds, “none of these names has added value to Abia the way I have done, neither to the infrastructure, nor to anything I know of; they only come to struggle to be in the forefront of leading Abia, to reap where they have sown so little, preparing to rIp the state like others have done. Some people come to take away from the lean resources of the state but not me.”

Ibe says he is the only one with a proven record of having invested in the state, of having employed people in the state and keeps employing people and adding value to the state. “Where were they when all this was happening?

What did they do with their money? Now, they all want to govern Abia. Again, let me add: si ce n’est pas du Panadol, cen’est pas du Panadol, which is to say: if it is not Panadol, it is not Panadol. For me it is the end of discussion as far as

being the Governor of Abia State is concerned. I wish them well, but they know too well themselves that there is no comparison between them and I. “Once my name is mentioned from the area of competence, on investment in the state, on having the perquisite knowledge or ideas on development, I remain their non-pareil.

I respect their diverse kinds of training, upbringing, and experience but they should know that in comparison, I am quite up there.”

We need graduates who would become manufacturers and inventors, skilled and brilliant personnel taking charge of all the departments of human endeavour. Until we can groom and position the drivers of our next flight to the global village of ideas, we have not delivered.

There is work to do.

At this stage everybody agrees that competence must be the new normal.

Abians want somebody they can hold accountable, someone who is ready to make a covenant with them with regard to deliverables, a leader with innovative ideas in the art of governance, not one who plays to the gallery of ethnic jingoism, of ethnic politics.

I connect with Abians everywhere whether by way of assistance or employment. The connection is enormous. I have friends in Abia North; it is my community, the same way I have in the whole of Obingwa and Ngwa in Aba. I have a relationship that cuts across the state with the children and parents of Abia State. Many of them connect with Gregory University and Skill G, and all my corporate outfits home and abroad.

They have at various times enjoyed and currently enjoy 20 percent of my scholarship programme.

The infrastructure decadence in Aba exemplifies the issues in the ongoing narrative. Every Abian, every citizen of the Southeast, all Nigerians and foreigners who were privileged to dwell or work in Aba, must be concerned that Aba is now a shadow of its glorious past.

Okezie Ikpeazu

Ibe does not spare incumbent and outgoing Abia State governor Okezie Ikpeazu for non-performance. Under him, he says, Aba has further gone down the drain; it has gone into a state of decomposition. He explains: “If you look at Aba, you will see that it has gone tremendously down, and a lot of people have moved out of the commercial city. There was a time the city had a security challenge, such that many people ran away; now the situation is worse; there are diverse challenges bothering on poor infrastructure; people are leaving in their droves including corporate organisations. The annual ravaging flood has hardly spared the city.”

The state government, he observes, was supposed to collaborate with the World Bank in helping Aba have a good drainage system. With less than seven months to go, the Ikpeazu Administration has nothing to offer Aba people in that direction. The project has been dead on arrival.

“The healthcare institutions are as good as dead; the government is owing workers huge amounts of their salaries, and each month adds to the previous month; it is also not paying pensioners. The Bible says a worker deserves his wage.

The opposite is the case in Abia State. Somebody somewhere should be held accountable.”

In the whole of Abia State, says Ibe, there is no MRI, there is no Card Scan. “The former government made all this possible but today, all this is gone under the nose of the Ikpeazu administration. Abia State with five million people, has no MRI; for God’s sake this should never be discussed.

There are a lot of people in Abia State that need dialysis, I wonder where they go for it.” Notwithstanding, he adds, “the government that we want to bring in place will address all those issues.”

According to the governorship candidate, his blueprint was released much earlier in the day; expectedly others began to rewrite theirs using the facts domiciled in his blueprint. He had to withdraw it.” I knew that people would start manipulating it, but I still went ahead to release it. My blueprint is my covenant with Abia State.

I have completed the blueprint and from there I derived my manifesto, I am sure of every line of what I have done.

If you wake me up from sleep, I will tell you about the environmental issues in Abia and how I want to solve them. I have the answer to every human and governance problem in Abia State.”

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER DECEMBER 3, 2022

25

POLITY

Abdussamad Dasuki

Inspired by Need for Quality Representation In this report, Onuminya Innocent focuses on the political trajectory of Hon. Abdussamad Dasuki and his bid to represent Kebbe/Tambuwal Federal Constituency of Sokoto State again

A

ll over Nigeria – indeed, the world – trust in government and people in government is teetering on the brink of collapse. This is as politicians dash people’s hopes and confidence, and many experience disappointments in those they entrusted with power.

The trend of disappointment and distrust pose a critical challenge to development.

But one man is on a mission to reverse the trend for his people, the people of Kebbe/Tambuwal Federal Constituency of Sokoto State.

Hon. Abdussamad Dasuki, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) House of Representatives candidate for Kebbe/Tambuwal Federal Constituency in next year’s general election, says he has identified the problem, and he is prepared to fix it.

“I have seen the challenge that growing distrust of people in power by those who elected them is creating for societal progress,” he says. “How it is making it difficult to summon resources and drive for development and protect development projects.”

The son of the late Sultan Ibrahim Dasuki (18th Sultan of Sokoto) has also figured out what to do.

He says, “What to do is to rekindle the hope of the people, rebuild their trust, and fire their passion by delivering quality representation to them.

“I am inspired by the need for quality representation in Kebbe/Tambuwal Federal Constituency. It is my major motivation for seeking reelection to the House of Representatives.”

In May, Dasuki won the PDP House of Representatives primary by a unanimous vote. He says if elected to the lower chamber next year, he would continue the mission he had launched in 2015, alongside other like-minded legislators, to return Nigeria to the parliamentary system of government.

The former Commissioner for Finance in Sokoto State believes the presidential system, which the country has practised since the inception of the Second Republic in 1979, is too bloated to facilitate development. He wants a change to a leaner governmental structure, which the parliamentary system supports.

“I still think we should rethink this system, our presidential system of government, which, as we can all see, creates unnecessary openings for corruption and conflict, and work towards its replacement with the parliamentary system,” says Dasuki, who was House of Representatives member for Kebbe/Tambuwal Federal Constituency between 2015 and 2019.

He says his immediate constituency, Kebbe/ Tambuwal Federal Constituency, would be a major partaker of dividends of democracy under his representation.

How would he achieve his mission for his people?

What are the possible solutions he can implement to guarantee confidence in his legislative abilities, if elected into the House of Representatives next year?

Dasuki says, “I have defined my mission, which is to rebuild the people’s confidence in representative governance. My strategy would be the facilitation of projects and schemes that target the majority of my people. I have done it before, I will do it again.”

If elected, Dasuki would be coming to the National Assembly with ample legislative, executive, traditional, and private sector experiences under his belt.

Dasuki, who belongs to the Malam Buhari Dan Shehu ruling family of Sokoto Caliphate, holds the title of Santurakin Sokoto, which was conferred on him in 2021 by Sultan Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III. The Santurakin Sokoto titleholder assists the Sultan in the day-to-day running of the Sultanate.

Dasuki began his political career in 2011 with his election into the Sokoto State House of Assembly as member representing Tambuwal East State Constituency. He chaired the Assembly’s Committee on Agriculture between 2011 and 2013 and served as Chairman, Committee on Finance and Appropriation from 2013 to 2015.

As a lawmaker, Dasuki sponsored several bills and

Abdussamad Dasuki

motions that positively impacted good governance in the state and the lives of his constituents.

At the House of Representatives, Dasuki also sponsored critical bills and motions. They included North East Development Commission Bill, Usman Danfodio University (Amendment) bill, Motion on Erosion for Dogondaji and its Environs, and the historic “Not too Young to Run Bill”.

He was an active member of the global InterParliamentary Union (IPU) and also served in various committees of the House. He served in the House Committees on Navy, Sustainable Development Goals, Financial Crimes, Local Content, North East, and Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs).

Dasuki’s remarkable performance as Chairman, House Committee on Navy, paved the way for the construction of a world class Navy Secondary School in Tambuwal, the first of its kind in the North-west.

Dasuki’s sterling representation and contributions in the House also earned him recognition by the House Press Corps, which conferred on him the Young Lawmaker of the year award in 2017.

He was appointed Commissioner for Finance by Sokoto State Governor Aminu Tambuwal soon after his re-election in 2019.

Dasuki’s professional abilities were brought to bear on the Tambuwal government’s economic reform agenda, leading to very impressive outcomes.

The Tambuwal economic reforms, which he drove as commissioner for finance, boosted the state’s finances, improved transparency, and blocked loopholes that had aided corrupt practices.

The successful implementation of the reforms earned the state endorsement of major finance institutions, which supported development projects.

They included a grant of $33 million in three years and another $22 million from the World Bank for the commitment to the implementation of the State’s Fiscal Transparency, Accountability, and Sustainability

I still think we should rethink this system, our presidential system of government, which, as we can all see, creates unnecessary openings for corruption and conflict, and work towards its replacement with the parliamentary system

(SFTAS) programme. This followed Sokoto State’s impressive score in the SFTAS ranking, where it placed among the top three states in the country.

Sokoto State also came first among the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in the tax payment column of the Subnational Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) Baseline Survey, as announced by the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC).

Other achievements under Dasuki as Commissioner for Finance included enactment of the harmonised Consolidated Revenue Law of 2019, which helped the state raise its Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) by 97 per cent; continued automation of revenue processes; establishment of revenue codes for the state and all the 23 local governments; establishment of Single Treasury Account (TSA); adoption of Cash Management Strategy; adoption of Monthly Debt Arrears Clearance Framework on Contract and Gratuity payments; establishment of SFTAS Secretariat; and construction of an ultramodern Revenue House and Complex.

It was also under Dasuki’s commissionership that the state achieved harmonisation of civil service database; sanitisation of civil service salaries and pensions by linkage of BVN to personnel management data; implementations of N18, 000 and, subsequently, N30, 000 minimum wage and Consolidated Polytechnics and Colleges of Education Academic Staff Salary Structure (CONPCASS); enactment of Fiscal Responsibility Agency Law 2020 and constitution of its board; migration from Cash Basis Accounts to IPSAS Cash and, later, Accrual Basis ISPAS. “I believe I have acquitted myself capably in public offices where the Almighty God has given me the opportunity to serve,” Dasuki says.

His stewardship at the state and federal legislature and in the cabinet of Governor Aminu Tambuwal, facilitated several other key projects to his Kebbe/ Tambuwal federal Constituency. These include gully erosion control works in Jabo and Bashire, ICT Centre with modern equipment in Dogondaji, construction of classrooms at Sanyinna, Mana and Mai Banche primary schools, construction of classrooms at Abdullahi Bara’u Secondary School Dogon-Daji in Tambuwal Local Government and renovation of classrooms at Federal Government Girls College (FGGC) Tambuwal.

His empowerment programmes include distribution of sewing and grinding machines to over 1,000 women in his constituency, distribution of 350 water pump machines to farmers for dry season farming, distribution of 99 set of computers and printers to Secondary Schools, and empowerment of about 350 youths with N7 million (with beneficiaries receiving N20,000 each). Apart from these, over 70, 000 persons have benefited from Dasuki free medical outreach in Dogondaji, Tambuwal, Sanyinna and Kuchi in Kebbe/Tambuwal Federal Constituency. Also, to tackle water borne disease, he has constructed more than 50 motorised boreholes in the constituency.

Driven by his passion for education, Dasuki established annual scholarship scheme for students who are from his constituency in tertiary institutions.

Based on his stewardship in the legislative and executive arms, there has been growing calls for his return to represent his Kebbe/Tambuwal Federal Constituency “Since he left the House of Representatives in 2019, we have seen the difference, the clarion call for his return to represent us again is not based on sentiment or bias but on competence,” says Abdullahi Muhammad, a resident of the constituency.

Dasuki responded to those calls and emerged candidate of the PDP for the February 2023 election to represent Kebbe/Tambuwal Federal Constituency again.

“Of course, there is room for more contribution to governance and society. That is why I am seeking the mandate to represent Kebbe/Tambuwal Federal Constituency,” Dasuki said.

26

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER DECEMBER 3, 2022

POLITY

Gov Abiodun’s Developmental Stride, a Model Femi Ogbonnikan

D

evelopment is forever a work in progress. It is because socio-economic growth is a continuous process and an unfolding endeavour that never ends until it is cut short by death, which means that every step in the journey to a higher level of comfort and greatness is as important and worthy as any other step. In so far as the development of infrastructure is concerned, Ogun State has never had it so good. Yes, arguably, and without any fear of equivocation.

Of course, performance assessment depends on the eyes with which individual views the development we see happening in the state under the present administration of Governor Dapo Abiodun. The fact that we see a significant transformation of the infrastructure landscape in the three senatorial districts in the state today doesn’t mean it will seem significant or even be noticeable to some other people because of the differences in our perception, our judgment, and our minds’ eyes. We know some cynics will not even give a hoot about the current economic reality of our time as a basis for their judgements. Many perfectionists, cynics or pessimists too don’t realise the limitation of resources available at the disposal of the government at this time of the global economic meltdown.

Regardless of individual opinion, bias and prejudice, there is no doubt that Abiodun, has raised the threshold of good governance in the state. And it can only get better.

For the avoidance of doubt, at no time had he said that his administration had done all the roads in Ogun State, and, of course, it is impossible to do so in a swoop by anyone no matter the quantum of resources available at a given point in time. But he has consistently assured the citizens of continuity of investment in infrastructure as a catalyst for rapid industrial growth and economic prosperity for all and sundry. He has consistently assured them of inclusiveness in governance, open and transparent process, grassroots participation in the decision-making process as well as even and equal distribution of developmental projects.

For further motivation, we must appreciate the present progress the administration has made so far while striving for a better tomorrow. In all human endeavours, it is full devotion to the present with an eye on continuing the journey forward that ensures excellence and sustained effort. In other words, development is a continuous process that is gradual and cumulative. It is just like hiking up the mountain path: a slow, steady ascent leads to the top. Growth is imbued with hope, with ever-expanding possibilities.

As can be rightly inferred from the Governor’s address during the recent commissioning of some projects, it is no longer an end to be celebrated but rather just another stepping stone on the way to bigger and better things. You could see happiness and joy on the faces of Remo people who were present at the commissioning of 4km Oba Erinwole road which had become almost impassable before the coming of the present administration. Important as the road is to the

economic well-being of the people of Sagamu, Ogijo, and even Ikorodu in Lagos State. It was completely neglected for political pettiness.

The Akarigbo and Paramount Ruler of Remoland, Oba Babatunde Ajayi, in his keynote address at the occasion, gave testimony that the road before the reconstruction was one of the most deplorable roads in the state.

The story is the same for the roads traversing Ilaro to Ilara, Ajebo to Ajenbadele, Odeda to Odogbolu, Iwopin to Iwoye, Iperu to Ipokia, Sango- Ota to Sagamu, Ijebu- Ode to Ijoko, Igbesa to Igbogila.

It is, therefore, gratifying to note that Governor Abiodun has set the tone for a paradigm shift in governance, believing that people are the ultimate object of development. A week ago, it was a promise kept when traditional rulers, state functionaries, party faithful, and other critical stakeholders converged on Sagamu, precisely on Monday, November 21, 2022 to commission Oba Erinwole road in fulfillment of his (Governor’s) electioneering promise to prioritize the development of road infrastructure throughout the length and breadth of the state.

The epoch-making event followed the successful completion and commissioning of Arepo Journalist Estate Road, Igan/ Ishamurin/ Odo-Shikiti Road (Ago-Iwoye), Oke-Ola Road in Imeko, among others. Indeed, this year has been an all-around year of commissioning and celebration across all parts of the state.

And it is just the beginning. What is more? From now till May 29, 2023, when the curtain draws on the first tenure of the administration, there can be no dull moment again as the Governor has given an assurance that there will be commissioning of, at least, one road project per week across all the three senatorial districts of the state. He made the declaration during the commissioning ceremony to the excitement of the people. That appears to be a tall ambition, right? Yes, it is. But it is doable with the commitment of focused leadership of the Governor. To meet its aggressive and insatiable quest for infrastructural transformation, the administration has already evolved alternative financing options such as Public-PrivatePartnership (PPP), the establishment of an Infrastructure Development Bond, and other initiatives to aid the delivery of the administration’s agenda for development.

With the initiative, over 80 major roads and others (Federal roads inclusive) totalling 400km have been constructed, reconstructed or rehabilitated across the State within the three and a half years of the administration.

Hear from the horse’s mouth: “We have spent the last three and half years, rekindling the hope and trust of our people in their Government we have re-established between government and the private sector.

We have prioritised the delivery of services and remained focused and committed to the implementation of our ‘Building our Future Together’ Agenda. We remain a promise-keeping administration!

“This administration in three years and six months has done more in terms of kilometres of roads than previous administrations in the State. These road projects include amongst others:

L-R: Non-Executive Director, Signature Bank, Mr. Shedrach Odoh; Managing Director, Mrs. Nonye Ayeni; Chairman, Mr. Mutiu Sunmonu; Founder, Dr. Alex Otti; Executive Director, Mr. Frank Anumele; Independent Non-Executive Director, Mr. Uzoma Nwankwo; and Independent Non-Executive Director, Alhaji Tijani Ahmed Borode at the launch of Signature Bank in Abuja ....yesterday

Ilaro – Owode Road, Ijebu-Ode-Mojoda-Epe Road, AbeokutaSiun-Sagamu Interchange Road, Atan-Lusada-Agbara Road, Panseke-Adigbe-Opako Road, Ilishan-Ago-Iwoye Road etc.

“Let me emphasise that we are equal to the task of commissioning at least one project per week until we end our first term because we are focused, deliberate, and determined to make Ogun a champion sub-national that will be an envy of others in terms of service delivery.

“To date, over 80 major roads and others (Federal roads inclusive) totalling 400km have been constructed, reconstructed, or rehabilitated across the State. This administration in three years and six months has done more in terms of kilometres of roads than previous administrations in the State.”

This is by no means a rare feat in our present economic situation occasioned by the devastating effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, dwindling Federal revenue arising from crude oil theft, the challenge of insecurity, and the resultant decline in the Gross Domestic Product. One significant thing here is that these roads were chosen by the people themselves as their priority projects in line with the bottom-top development strategy of the present administration. According to the Governor, 97 percent of the road projects in the state were chosen by the people themselves.

Among other economic benefits, the constructed Oba Erinwole road will not only open access to Sagamu-Ogijo Industrial zone of the State, but it will also attract new businesses which in turn will boost the economic base of small and medium enterprises of Sagamu and its environs.

Other than that, the infrastructure drive of the present administration will continue to have a multiplier effect on the Internally Generate Revenue (IGR) which can further be used to finance other infrastructure projects in other parts of the State. It is also a veritable tool for urbanization, industrialization, and economic growth of the state. All of these have self-reinforcing benefits which can crystalize into sustainable growth and development of the state’s economy.

More fundamentally, it creates enabling environment for a public-private sector partnership which is a way of ensuring sustainable economic development and individual prosperity for the people of the state.

As the Governor has already disclosed, work will soon commence on other roads that have similar economic importance. The list of roads already penciled down for immediate attention include the hospital road in Ogijo and the bright fashion road. In addition to these, the administration is also looking forward to collaborating with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) to finish the remaining portion of the road linking the state with Lagos, complete Otta-Idiroko International route as well as Ilaro – PapalantoSagamu Interchange routes.

Ogbonnikan wrote from Abeokuta, Ogun State Read full article online - www.thisdaylive.com

L-R: Lagos State Commissioner for Economic, Budget and Planning, Sam Egube; Lagos State APC publicity Secretary, Seye Oladejo; Lagos State Commissioner for Housing, Moruf Akinderu-Fatai; Commissioner for information and strategy, Gbenga Omotoso; and Director-general, Baba Sanwo-Olu Campaign, Senator Ganiyu Solomon, during the official launch of Babajide Sanwo-Olu campaign “For a Greater Lagos” held in Lagos….yesterday SUNDAY ADIGUN

.L-R: Kilana Kojen Tangale of Mai Komta, Gombe State, High Chief Kilanga Mela; Chairman, Nigerian Society of Mining Engineers, Abuja chapter, Mr. Charlses Uka; Network Movement for Justice and Development, Serra Leone, Deborah Lahai; Adokun of Igan Okoto Yewa, Ogun State, King Mukaila Sagako; Programs Manager, Global Rights, Nigeria, Edosa Oviawe and Senior Officer Natural L-R: Managing Director/CEO, Heirs Life Assurance,Mr. Niyi Onifade; Chief Marketing OffiResources Governance Institute, Tengi Ikoli, during the West African Mining Host Communities cer, Heirs Life Assurance, Ifesinachi Okpagu; Executive Director, Technical, Wasiu Amao; and INDABA in Abuja recently….

ENOCK REUBEN Head, Retail Sales, Heirs Life Assurance, Gbenga Osibodu at Heirs Life 2022 Annuitants Party held in Lagos…. yesterday SUNDAY ADIGUN

3

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ APRIL 24, 2011

GLOBAL SOCCER A

WEEKLY PULL-OUT

NEWS

GHANA ENDS QATAR 2022 ADVENTURE

03.12.2022 PAGE. 29

l u Pa

u h c a u n O

l l a m S in

h s i F g i B d n Po

28

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾DECEMBER 3, 2022

GLOBAL SOCCER

Paul Onuachu...will he ever join the big league

Paul Onuachu

Big Fish in Small Pond With 55 league goals to his name in the last two seasons for KRC Genk, it is almost shocking that Super Eagles striker, Paul Onuachu, is still playing outside the top five leagues in Europe despite several top European clubs being linked to his name. The status quo would indeed remain the same for now after the Belgian side had declared that the Nigerian is not available in the winter transfer market

A

gainst the highly anticipated winter transfer of Super Eagles striker, Paul Onuachu from KRC Genk to Premier League side, Aston Villa, the Belgian club have however declared that their jewel striker would not be available for sale when the January transfer window opens, despite initially revealing that the striker could leave for €25m.

Aston Villa have recently been linked to Onuachu, who has long been tipped to move to a bigger league since he emerged top scorer in Belgium in the last two seasons.

The Midlands club are looking to add more firepower to their attack despite new manager, Unai Emery, having Ollie Watkins and Danny Ings at his disposal.

According to Belgian website, voetbalkrant.com, four-time Belgian champions Genk are reluctant to allow the 28-year-old leave as they are chasing their first league championship since 2019.

Their other Belgian league conquests were in 2011, 2002 and 1999.

After 17 rounds of matches, Genk are 10 points clear at the top of the table in the regular season with 46 points from 17 league games.

“We don’t think he (Onuachu) will leave this season because this could be their best chance to win another title,” the website said.

The Nigeria international has been in the headlines over the years as a result of his goal-scoring feat for the Belgian Pro League outfit.

Onuachu scored 33 goals in 38 league appearances for the Smurfs two seasons ago.

He was also the club’s top scorer last season with 21 goals in 35 league outings.

This season, he has already registered 13 goals in 14 league appearances.

Onuachu has been a standout performer for the Limburgers in the last two seasons.

Two seasons ago, the Nigerian striker recorded 34 league goals and his exploits did not go unnoticed, as he was awarded the Best Player in Belgium.

After his achievement, the Super Eagles striker was expected to seal a move away from the club. However, despite links to Lyon, Arsenal, and West Ham, Genk kept him.

Onuachu never hid his desire to leave Genk for another club. But he has been professional about it.

The speculation surrounding the big Nigerian striker have not ended, as he also performed well last season where he recorded 23 goals in 41 appearances.

A move away from the Jupiler league was largely expected when the 28-yearold scored 34 league goals penultimate season, but it didn’t happen largely due to Genk’s valuation but they have since dropped their asking price. A source who approached the player with a deal from a Serie A side was told by his management team that he is heading to the English Premier League next summer as an agreement was already in place. But it was not to be.

“We had an offer for him to consider.

So, he directed us to his new management team. They told us Genk have reached agreement for his sale to a team in the English Premier League,” Several reports in the Belgium media tends to also agree with that stand as it was

widely reported that Onuachu would leave the team in the summer with fellow Nigerian Cyriel Dessers as his replacement.

Dessers has impressed mightily on loan to Feyenoord but the Dutch side don’t have the €4m required to make the deal permanent and Genk are not willing to compromise on their stand.”

A €6 million arrival from Midtjylland in 2019, Onuachu found the back of the net a whopping 21 times last season despite the spate of injuries that denied him of playing time, making him one of the best performing centre forwards across Europe.

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.”

The Nigerian international struggled in his first year in Belgium but won the hearts of many after delivering numerous excellent performances.

Onuachu indeed admitted that the Belgian First Division A is a challenging championship, but the determination to push himself beyond the limit helped him become the best in the country.

The 28-year-old only managed nine goals in 22 matches in his maiden

campaign three seasons ago after completing his switch from Danish side FC Midtjylland.

But his turnaround in fortunes, 12 months later, has been evident for all to see. Onuachu is clear about how he was able to improve his efficiency in front of goal.

“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.”

Lazio, Sevilla, and Lyon are among the top European clubs ready to lure Onuachu to one of the continent’s big five leagues.

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.”

The forward has a year left on his current contract but he is unsure of seeing out the deal with a number of European clubs believed to be interested in signing him in the summer.

Onuachu has been with Blue and White since the summer of 2019 when he teamed up with the side from Midtjylland.

The attacker delivered scintillating performances in front of goal during his time with the Danish club to earn a move to Genk.

29

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾DECEMBER 3, 2022

GLOBAL SOCCER Q ATA R 2 0 2 2 . . . Q ATA R 2 0 2 2 . . . Q ATA R 2 0 2 2 . . . Q ATA R 2 0 2 2 . . .

J

ust like Belgium, Germany’s die Mannschaft arrived in Qatar as one of the favourites to win this first FIFA World Cup in the Middle East.

Why not? The Germans were believed to have overcome their scandalous crashing out of the last edition in Russia four years ago at the group stage. They went to Russia as defending champions from Brazil but sadly failed to fly from the group stage into the knock out second round.

But after three matches here: losing their first to Japan 1-2; Draw 1-1 with Spain and manage to win 4-2 against Costa Rica, it was obvious that something had gone terribly wrong with Hansi Flicks men. As it was in Russia four years ago, the German Machines bowed out in shame and left the Al Bayt Stadium here with sadness and disbelief etched on their faces.

Germany ended up third in the group behind the

Spanish on goal difference, bursting their World Cup bubble and leaving them to pack their bags and head to the airport.

Expectedly, Thomas Muller – one of the surviving players who had gone through it all already back in 2018 – struggled to voice the emptiness that the squad was feeling this time around, describing it as “a bit like drifting out of consciousness.

There is such a sense of disappointment – we felt really good after the Spain match.

We thought that we’d got into some form at the tournament and were finally in a position to make real progress, but now here we are heading home.”

“We weren’t expecting that result from the Spain match, but at the end of the day, we had enough chances against Japan and Spain to have won those two games,” said Kai Havertz. “We deserve to be going out, though. With

the quality we’ve got, we shouldn’t be losing to Japan.”

Havertz’s teammates certainly agreed with that sentiment. “We just weren’t on the ball in that first match, and when you’ve only got three games, you can’t afford for that to happen,” said Niclas Fullkrug, who found the back of the net again versus Costa Rica. “As a player though, I feel that we came together well as a team but perhaps we weren’t 100 per cent ready.”

“There wasn’t much talk in the dressing room.

Deathly silence,” said Jonas Hofmann, giving an insight into the mood of the camp after the match.

“The result of the Spain – Japan match doesn’t really matter, because we should have won against Japan and even beaten the Spanish at the end of the day.

So you have to say that we only have ourselves to

DURO IKHAZUAGBE Reporting live

blame.”

When asked about his future as Germany coach, Hansi Flick had this to say to broadcaster ARD: “We weren’t anywhere near efficient enough in this tournament, and that’s why we’ve gone out. We’re hugely disappointed and we need to process that before we do anything else. I believe in my coaching staff and I’ve put in some good work, but it just wasn’t enough at the end of the day.”

With three early exits in a row, the concept of Germany as a team that rises to the occasion has now been put to bed well and truly. Two World Cup failures and the similar

Sponsored by:

Disabled German Machines Full of Regrets After Back-to-Back Failures

crashing at the UEFA EURO 2020 last year, means questions are now being asked on whether Flick should continue on the job.

With the next Euro however less two years away

and on home soil – hopefully by then, will the die Mannschaft have gone back to basics and rediscovered what made them so hard to beat on the biggest stages previously? Only time will

HOW THEY STAND Group A 1 2 3 4

Team Netherlands Senegal Ecuador Qatar

Pl 3 3 3 3

W 2 2 1 0

D 1 0 1 0

L 0 1 1 3

F 5 5 4 1

A 1 4 3 7

GD 4 1 1 -6

Pts 7 6 4 0

F 9 2 4 1

A 2 1 7 6

GD 7 1 -3 -5

Pts 7 5 3 1

F 5 2 2 3

A 2 2 3 5

GD 3 0 -1 -2

Pts 6 4 4 3

F 6 3 1 1

A 3 4 1 3

GD 4 -1 0 -2

Pts 6 6 4 1

F 4 9 6 3

A 3 3 5 11

GD 1 6 -1 -8

Pts 6 4 4 3

F 4 4 1 2

A 1 1 2 5

GD 3 3 -1 -3

Pts 7 5 4 0

F 3 4 4 5

A 1 3 4 8

GD 2 1 0 -3

Pts 6 6 3 1

F 6 4 2 3

A 4 4 2 5

GD 2 0 0 -2

Pts 6 4 4 3

Group B 1 2 3 4

Team England USA Iran Wales

Pl 3 3 3 3

W 2 1 1 0

1 2 3 4

Team Pl Argentina 3 Poland 3 Mexico 3 Saudi Arabia 3

W 2 1 1 1

D 1 2 0 1

L 0 0 2 2

Group C D 0 1 1 0

L 1 1 1 2

Group D 1 2 3 4

Team France Australia Tunisia Denmark

Pl 3 3 3 3

W 2 2 1 0

1 2 3 4

Team Japan Spain Germany Costa Rica

Pl 3 3 3 3

W 2 1 1 1

D 0 0 1 1

L 1 1 1 2

Group E D 0 1 1 0

L 1 1 1 2

Group F Germany players streaming out of the field shocked and in disbelief of their sack from the 2022 World Cup in Qatar

Ghana End Qatar 2022 Adventure as Portugal, Korea Qualify for Last 16 Uruguay crash out in last minute drama

G

hana’s adventure here at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar ended last night after failing to beat Uruguay in a grudge match the South Americans won 2-0 yet failed to qualify for the last 16 knockout phase of the tournament.

Like it happened 12 years ago when Uruguay defeated the Black Stars in the quarter final of the first Mundial to hold on African soil in South Africa, Ghana’s Captain, Andre Ayew missed an early penalty kick.

But with Uruguay looking for an extra third goal to leapfrog South Korea who defeated Portugal 2-1 in the Group H other game, the Ghanaians locked up and succeeded in frustrating La Celeste until the final whistle. Luis Suarez whose hand ball denied Ghana qualification to the semi final at South Africa 2010, burst into tears with the knowledge that his adventure in Qatar

2022 was over.

A South Korea’s late winner against Portugal saw them advance by virtue of scoring more goals than Diego Alonso’s side as both sides tied on four points each behind Portugal on six.

The clash between Ghana and Uruguay was the first meeting since a controversial World Cup quarter-final in 2010, which saw Asamoah Gyan miss a penalty after Suarez was sent off for the handball on the goal-line.

In the other fixture, Hwang Hee-chan scored the stoppage-time winner to beat Portugal 2-1 and put South Korea through to the last 16 of the World Cup at the expense of Uruguay.

The Taeguk Warriors appeared to be heading out as they looked set to draw while Uruguay led Ghana, but Hwang netted at the end to complete an incredible turnaround.

Ricardo Horta had put Portugal in front early on, but they failed to heed the warning posed by Kim

Jin-su’s disallowed goal soon after, with Kim Young-gwon deservedly getting South Korea back on level terms.

Portugal – who won the group anyway – coasted through the second half and South Korea took full advantage, with Hwang landing the decisive blow to spark bedlam and send Uruguay packing.

WORLD CUP RESULTS GROUP H

Ghana 0-2 Uruguay South Korea 2-1 Portugal GROUP G

Cameroon 1-0 Brazil Serbia 2-3 Switzerland ROUND OF 16 FIXTURES TODAY

Netherlands v USA 15:00 Argentina v Australia 19:00 SUNDAY

France v Poland 15:00 England v Senegal 19:00

Team Morocco Croatia Belgium Canada

Pl 3 3 3 3

W 2 1 1 0

Team Brazil Switzerland Cameroon Serbia

Pl 3 3 3 3

W 2 2 1 0

1 2 3 4

D 1 2 2 0

L 0 0 1 3

Group G D 0 0 1 1

L 1 1 1 2

Group H 1 2 3 4

Team Pl Portugal 3 Korea Republic 3 Uruguay 3 Ghana 3

W 2 1 1 1

D 0 1 1 0

L 1 1 1 2

30

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾DECEMBER 3, 2022

GLOBAL SOCCER

L-R: Oluwabusayo Olowookere, Wonders Nwigwe, Dr Akinremi Francis, Michael Etim and Emeka Ehirim Vincent Aboubakar celebrates his goal against Brazil

Cameroon Bow out of Qatar Despite Victory Over Brazil Coach Otto Addo Steps Down as Black Stars Manager Cameroon’s Indomitable Lions snatched a last-gasp famous 1-0 win over Brazil before being sent off but it was not enough to save them from an early World Cup exit in Qatar. The South Americans topped Group G on six points. exit — or to prevent the Selecao from topping Group G. Lions’ inspirational Captain, Vincent Aboubakar, scored the lone goal winner inside the Lusail Stadium with over 85,000 in attendance.

Having seen Brazil secure a place in the round of 16 by beating Switzerland last time out, Coach Tite made

nine changes to his side, which resulted in a disjointed Selecao showing.

Devis Epassy kept Cameroon in the contest with several fine saves before Aboubakar nodded home a stoppage-time winner for Rigobert Song’s men — and was promptly shown a second yellow card for removing his shirt.

However, the result was ultimately immaterial as Switzerland clung on to beat Serbia 3-2 in the group’s other game, ensuring Brazil topped the pool and sealing Cameroon’s elimination.

Gabriel Martinelli went

close to giving Brazil an early lead when his looping header drew a strong save from Epassy, though that was the closest Tite’s men came during a flat first half.

Brazil were indebted to Ederson for keeping the game level when he made a fine reflex save from Bryan Mbeumo’s header, while Aboubakar dragged an effort wide as Cameroon grew into the contest after the break.

Those two Cameroon forays seemed to spark Brazil into life, but Epassy somehow denied Eder Militao the opener when he tipped the defender’s scruffy effort onto his right-hand post.

Qatar 2022 Brings Nigerians Closer to African Neighbours The 2022 Qatar World Cup group stage ushered in the third round of the final battle, and the ownership of the tickets for the Final 16.

The AFCON champion Senegal made a good start for the African teams. They narrowly beat Ecuador 2-1 and secured second place in Group A to advance to the round of 16. They will have a strong match with the European giant England in the knockout stage.

Morocco advanced to the knockout stages of the World Cup for the first time

since 1986 after a 2-1 win over Canada. The Moroccans ended Group F as group winners with seven points, becoming the second African side after Senegal to make it to the next round of the competition.

This year’s Qatar World Cup football feast is broadcast live on the NTA SPORTS 24 on Channel 270 on antenna decoder on StarTimes and StarTimes ON App. Each time an African team plays, TV viewing stats on NTA Sports 24, show that there’s massive support from Nigerians, who throng

to TV sets to cheer on the African neighbours.

The round of 16 will begin today, and football fans across Africa are solidly rooting for their African brothers to soar to the next stage.

NTA Sports 24 will air Argentina vs Australia today at 4 pm; and Senegal vs England on Sunday at 4 pm, amongst other matches in the Round of sixteen.

The Lions of Teranga are scheduled to play England on Sunday, and their assistant coach Diouf has suggested they are not chasing unrealistic targets.

Draw for NPFL-Dozy Mmobuosi Foundation Pre-season Holds Monday The Draw Ceremony for the NPFL-DOZY Mmobuosi Foundation Pre-season Tournament will hold at the official unveiling of the tournament and Press Conference on Monday, December 5.

The unveiling ceremony packaged by Tingo Media will hold at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena which also is the venue for the maiden edition of the tournament holding between December 6 and 9.

The Invitational tournament will feature four clubs contesting for the 100m prize money. The

clubs are Rangers International, Enyimba International, Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) and Bendel Insurance.

“The unveiling and draw ceremony is a teaser of the entertainment and fun awaiting fans at the NPFL-Dozy Mmobuosi Foundation preseason as we are going to ensure that everyone enjoys a well packaged ceremony”, Martins Ebuwa Agbonwaneten, the Chief Executive Officer of Tingo Media was quoted to have said.

Fans attending the matches have been assured of plenty goodies as well as good music all through the tournament which will feature raffle prizes.

The matches would also enjoy live broadcast streaming on YouTube produced by Eureka Media Services.

“Every player can be a winner as we are putting up 1million for the Most Valuable Player (MVP) in addition to another 1million for the Highest Goal Scorer, “ the Tingo Media official added.

82 Division Enugu Wins Army Combat Swimming Competition Rebecca Ejifoma

Troops from 82 Division from Enugu State has won the 2022 Inter-formation Platoon Combat Swimming championship in Lagos State ahead of riverine operations in the country.

The team of 19 soldiers and one officer took the lead among the eight divisions that participated in the finals of the exercise which was held at the Old Slave Village, Badagry, organised by the 81 Division Nigerian Army.

While the defending champion, 1 Division from Kaduna emerged

second, 2 Division from Ibadan came third. Other divisions in the competition include 81 Division Lagos, 3 Division from Jos, 6 Division from Port-Harcourt, 8 Division from Sokoto, and Army Headquarters Garrison Abuja.

According to the Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen. Faruk Yahaya, the competition is one of the activities in the NA Forecast of events in 2022 aimed at gearing up the troops for combating the contemporary security challenges in the nation.

“This competition couldn’t have come at a better time

considering the various security challenges in your area of responsibility and the country in general.

“This precarious security situation has no doubt presented us with the opportunity of checkmating the activities of the crime perpetrators through continuous training of both our officers and men,” he emphasised.

Represented by the Acting Director of Physical Training, Brig-Gen O.E Fawole, the COAS said he was impressed with the military bearing, stamina and endurance exhibited in the last four days.

Coach, Otto Addo has stepped down from his role as the leader of the Black Stars technical team with immediate effect.

The former Black Stars player announced this decision after Ghana’s elimination from the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar following a 2-0 defeat to Uruguay on Friday, December 2.

Otto Addo before the start of the World Cup hinted that he will step down from his job after the competition regardless of Ghana’s performance.

“Me & my family are happy

in Germany. I said I would step down after the World Cup even if we’re world champions after the tournament. I’ve resigned from my role as Ghana coach,” Otto Addo told the press in his post-match interview.

The 47-year-old manager will now return to his old job at Germain Bundesliga giants, Borussia Dortmund where he works as a talent development coach and a scout.

Otto Addo supervised 12 games as the head coach of the Black Stars since he was

appointed as the interim manager to lead the team for the FIFA World Cup playoffs against the Super Eagles of Nigeria in March 2022.

He won three out of the 12 games, lost five, and drew the remaining four matches which include the doubleheader against the Super Eagles of Nigeria.

Despite leading the Black Stars for less than a year, Otto Addo will also go down in history as the first Ghanaian to have featured in the FIFA World Cup as a coach and a player.

Berackiah International Partners APFAN on Nigeria Football Academies Championship Berackiah International on Tuesday signed a Memorandum of Understanding, MoU, with Association of Proprietors of Football Association of Nigeria, APFAN in Lagos on the 2023 Nigeria Football Academies Championship.

According to the CEO of Berackiah International, Wonders Nwigwe, the championship is expected to take place in the first quarter of 2023 in the six geo-political zones of Nigeria after the general election.

“The vision of the championship is for us to see how we

can bring Nigeria Football Academies Championship. The brain behind it is to see how we can bring the academies together because we understand that most of the successful players today are products of academy.

“We therefore want to bring the academies in Nigeria together to compete in a special championship annually and the winner would be sponsored in partnership with our foreign partners to play with their foreign counterparts.

“In the United States, we have a partner called the Martin Luther King Foundation. The aim of the foundation is to enable the best talents that emerge from the championship to America, grant them scholarship while they are schooling, they are also actively involved in one sport or the other.”

“In essence, the partnership is to bring academies together annually and the best would the sponsored to Europe or America for further empowerment,” Nwigwe said.

Mother, Son Win Shaibu @ 53 Birthday Golf Tourney Eghosa Otabor and his mother, Debby on Thursday emerged champions at the Philip Shaibu @ 53 Birthday Golf Tournament held at Benin Club Golf Section (BCGS), Edo State.

Over 100 golfers featured at the tournament powered by the state Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki; Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Osarodion Ogie; former BCGS Captains, Dr. Charles Ajayi and Dr. Bola Atua as well as the Obama Kitty Group.

Eghosa (hcp 18), BCGS House Officer prevailed in the men’s category with a net score of 70 (one under par) while Ben Oghumah (hcp 11) beat Maero Okpewono on count-back to place second having both played 72 net respectively.

In the same vein, Mummy Otabor (hcp 15), former LGAN National Vice President of SouthSouth Zone on her part played a better golf with a net score of 72 to win the ladies category.

Princess Nkeiruka Awiaka (hcp 18), former BCGS Lady Captain settled for second place for recording 73 net while Foluso Oboro (hcp 34) won the third place with 74 net.

Also, former BCGS Captain, Engr Basil Idahosa (hcp 21) won the veteran men’s cadre with 69 net. Sylvester Akhigbe (hcp 20) and Monday Ikhureigbe (hcp 15) placed second and third having played 75 and 76 net respectively.

The veteran ladies event was

won by O.A. Dawodu (hcp 33) with 73 net ahead of former BCGS Lady Captain, Juliet Ugiagbe (hcp 29) who placed second with 81 net. Supper veteran ladies prize went to Ivie Iyoha (hcp 32) for recording 85 net. G. Ihenyen (hcp 23) won the super veteran men event ahead of A. Uhunmwagho (hcp 20) with 84 net.

Encomiums was showered on the Deputy Governor for his exemplary passion and leadership ability to develop golf and other sports across the state.

Golfers from Ibori Golf and Country Club, (IGCC), Asaba; Ogunnu Golf Resort, Warri; Ikoyi Golf Club, Lagos; UBTH Golf Club, Edo and many others featured at the birthday tournament.

Netherlands Vs USA, Other Knockout Matches Live on DStv, GOtv The 2022 FIFA World Cup knockout stages will begin today in Qatar with the Oranje Boys of Netherlands taking on the United States of America live on World Cup Central (DStv channel 202 and GOtv channel 33), at 4pm.

After failing to qualify for the 2018 edition in Russia, the Oranje Boys took the initiative in Group A to finish top with seven points. The USA also

failed to qualify for the 2018 edition and were able to scale through Group B with five points.

Team USA are hopeful that their star player, Christian Pulisic, who scored the only goal in the last group match against Iran, would be fit for this match.

Also today, Messi’s Argentina will face Australia at the Ahmad

bin Ali Stadium for a place in the quarterfinals. After their shocking defeat to Saudi Arabia in the first group match, Argentina rallied back to finish top of Group C with six points, while Australia surprisingly finished second in Group D ahead of the much-fancied Denmark. The match will be live on World Cup Central (DStv channel 202 and GOtv channel 33), at 8pm.

31

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾DECEMBER 3, 2022

GLOBAL SOCCER

Ramon Azeez Seeking Redemption with Zaragoza If reports from the Spanish media is anything to go by, forgotten Super Eagles star, Ramon Azeez, may be getting a lifeline from Spanish Segunda Division side Real Zaragoza after a year without a club

A

fter not being attached to any club since August 31, 2021, when Granada terminated his contract, six caps former Super Eagles player Ramon Azeez has been given a life line to revive his career with Spanish Segunda Division side Real Zaragoza said to be interested in him.

Despite his tremendous experience in Spanish football, Azeez has not been able to attract serious suitors over the last two transfer windows.

A combative defensive midfielder, Azeez has 71 La Liga games, and 105 Segunda Division matches under his belt, with four goals scored in each championship.

And according to Sport Aragon, the 29-year-old midfielder has sanctioned his agents to open up a negotiations channel with Real Zaragoza.

Consequently, Azeez has been offered to the six-time Copa Del Rey winners in recent weeks.

It is believed that Real Zaragoza have not given Azeez’s representatives a clear answer, though.

While the Aragon-based club values the possibilities offered by the player and his experience, they have postponed any transfer move until the winter.

A Nigeria international since 2014, Azeez has six caps for the Super Eagles. The former Almeria

star’s last game for Nigeria, though, was as a second-half substitute in a 4-2 win away to Lesotho in November 2019.

After almost five years in the wilderness of international football, the Granada midfielder found his way back to the Nigeria national team in 2019.

Erstwhile Super Eagles coach, Gernot Rohr, had included Azeez in a list of 23 players for the highprofile friendly against Brazil and he had his name tucked among the six midfielders invited to face the five-time world champions.

Azeez for many has paid his dues having started from scratch; playing for the Nigeria Golden Eaglets squad of 2009.

Not a bit-part player in any sense, the petite midfielder under the tutelage of then-coach John Obuh was elected captain.

He led the U-17 team that had the likes of Ogenyi Onazi and Kenneth Omeruo to a second-place finish at the World Cup on home soil in 2009, before securing a move to Spanish side Almeria in 2011.

Azeez has not played club football outside Spain; hovering around just three clubs in the LaLiga and Segunda.

With no prior club football experience in Nigeria, Azeez started out with the Almeria B team and was on the fringe for the majority of his first season before making his debut with the first team in

an away fixture against FC Barcelona B for the Segunda División.

Later on, Azeez got promoted to the main team and he scored his first professional goal on December 21, 2013, netting the game’s only win at Real Betis.

He repeated the feat in the second meeting between the two teams, scoring in the 94th minute for a 3–2 triumph.

The performances of Azeez saw him get a call up to the Nigeria team in the build-up to the Brazil 2014 World Cup and he did make the final squad and even started for the Super Eagles in their opening game of the Mundial against Iran.

That turned to be his last game at the World Cup even though Nigeria progressed to the second round before crashing out against France.

Though Azeez did manage to play one more game at international level: a 3-2 home defeat against Congo-Brazzaville after the World Cup, marked the beginning of a long stay away from action.

Nigeria’s back-to-back misses from the Africa Cup of Nations further limited the chances of Azeez as he was thus forced to solely face his club career.

After a combined six years at the Almeria A

and B sides, Azeez jumped ship to another modest Segunda team, Lugo.

It was there he caught the fancy of Granada who recruited the Nigerian for their promotion push.

It proved to be a smart move for Azeez, as Granada put together an impressive run in the second half of the season, only losing once with the Nigerian midfielder on the pitch, to secure automatic promotion.

Back in the LaLiga where the spotlight is, Azeez tried to make the most of the platform before his contract was terminated.

G LO B A L S O C C E R ASSISTANT EDITOR KUNLE ADEWALE THISDAY ON SATURDAY EDITOR YEMI ADEBOWALE DEPUTY EDITOR AHAMIFULA OGBU THISDAY NEWSPAPERS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU

32

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER DECEMBER 3, 2022

MEDIAGAFFES

EXPRESSION

‘Felicitate With’ Wrong

Y

OU are welcome to this especial month: “The entire staff, friends, and family of…congratulates (why?)….” ”INEC’s strive (haba! striving) for a credible election is in line with the expectations of Nigerians.”

“Nigeria has witnessed series (a series) flawed elections in the past.” “…people are still weeping and wailing over PHCN….” ‘Weeping’ cannot co-function with ‘wailing’!

“Much ado about political parties (parties’) Peace Accord” “Court fines Customs, orders release of 24 petrol laden (petrol-laden) tankers in Ogun” “Enugu to tackle insecurity through massive employments….” The last word in the extract is uncountable. “…yet Soludo do (does) not think Igbos (the Igbo) are deserving of equal reciprocity as free citizens of Nigeria.”

“Bayelsa police probe teenager’s dead body (what of corpse?) in hotel wardrobe.” How did they do that?

“On behalf of my family and people of…I felicitate with….” Yank away the last word in the excerpt. “…27 per cent of rural and 5 per cent of urban populations in (on) the continent still practice (practise) open defecation“ Bagudu condoles (condoles with or simply consoles) family of woman, daughter assassinated in Kebbi” An aside: people should desist from writing ‘unknown gunmen’! You can never know them! Just employ ‘gunmen’. ‘’The state of their primary and secondary schools are (is) highly deplorable while some of their universities are nothing more than glorified secondary schools.”

THE NATION NEWS Extra of November 25 disseminated scandalous shibboleths in just one short extract: “There will be convenient (convenience) for payment…it can be pay (paid) installmentaly (sic) within four to five times.” Get it right: pay in instalments (not instalmentally)!

“Dr. Mike Adenuga is on (in) the driver’s seat in Globacom Unlimited.”

“NAICOM axes firms for non compliance with anti-money laundering rules” (BUSINESSDAY INSURANCE Today, November 25) News you can trust: non-compliance.

“Ex-Osun lawmakers pass vote of confidence on (in) Gov” “Man, 22, charged for (with) attempted suicide” (BUSINESSDAY, April 23) DAILY INDEPENDENT of November 23 circulated four improprieties: “At (On) different occasions you hear the agencies saying….” “…Maevis from the very beginning chose to collect FAAN’s revenue (which is government revenue) in a platform account operated by themselves to which FAAN had neither access nor control.” Agenda: on a platform account.

“Muamba relieves (relives) horrifying experience” NIGERIAN TRIBUNE of November 19 fumbled: “The ballot process is meant to ensure that only strikes that enjoy the votes of majority of members are embarked upon.” This way: a/the majority of members.

The following four slips are from Daily Independent of 19: “The National Examination Council (NECO) is currently enmeshed in internal crisis….” Tell me, what is the function of ‘currently’ here—in the presence of ‘is’? And this: an internal crisis or internal crises.

Still on a similar error: “Though Nigeria currently has three major optic fibres….”

“Adamawa gov’s wife flags off cancer screening exercise” This way: cancer-screening exercise.

“The case of who pays the piper dictating (calling) the tune has always been dominant in international politics.”

“I congratulate Dr. Jose Antonio Ocampo for (on/ upon) being a worthy participant and for his decision to withdraw his candidacy in my favour.”

“He is still in (on) the board of many companies.”

(THISDAYCOMMENT, November 20) “NAC boosts auto technicians’ efficiency with

staff loans for modern equipments.” (DAILY INDEPENDENT Auto Business, November 20) ‘Equipment’ is uncountable “Demuren said that all the regulations will (would) be binding on both international and local airlines….”

(Source: as above) “The damages and loss of lives to NATO and Yugoslavia were unnecessary.” (DAILY INDEPENDENT, November 25) ‘Damage’ in this context is non-count.

“An agenda similar to that of Murtala/Obasanjo regime was hurriedly packaged to cleanse the civil service in order to enhance performance and inculcate discipline into (in) our national life.” (THE NATION, November 25) “Nigeria and the international community has (have) just celebrated this year’s….” (THE GUARDIAN, November 25) “Secondly, it’s (its) legal duty to advise on the….”

(Vanguard, November 25) “They have not yet established the full processes of their interaction in the chamber too, and the formality of procedures are now still (is still) being developed.”

(THISDAY, November 25) “I wish the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Chief Bola AhmedTinubu should feel the pause (pulse) of the people….” (BUSINESSDAY, November 25) “I want to believe that the Nigerian electorate is (are)....” (Leadership, November 25) “Part of this quality sense (not quantity) concerns the debate on how best to eat a dish, with cutleries or with the ten fingers.” ‘Cutlery’ is uncountable.

(Daily Trust, November 24) “There has (have) been transition programmes before, so what is different with this one.” (Leadership, November 25) “The Senate President assured recently in Abuja that the constitution would be ready for promulgation very soon.”Who did he assure? (DAILYINDEPENDENT, November 25) “I am a product of a system which allowed a poor farmer-cum-fisherman’s son to go through the very best schools.…” (The Moment, November 25) ‘Best’ has reached the end-point of intensification and

Felicitations: My November People

I

t appears I have a soft spot for November people; perhaps the seed of that was sown the moment my first child was born many years ago in the first week of November. Introducing the following gentlemen, we mean no harm by not including any female.

Much as we tried, we were hindered by the peculiar disdain of our feminine folks in divulging their real age, unless and until the issue is forced out of their hands or control. So, the four men we serenade today have public dates of birth seemingly incontrovertible, and all somewhat have or have had dalliances with the media (of course you’ll likely say “of course”)... Trust me, it was merely accidental.

The oldest is the impeccably self-effacing and lavishly talented musician, producer and administrator, Olaoluwa Akintobi (aka Uncle Laolu Akins) on the 18th; then closely followed by Abayomi Oladiji (aka Yomfash) who spent decades in advertising practice, but now working hard in episcopal “advertising”, otherwise known as evangelism (27th). Joe Dudun (also 18th) is “notoriously” prolific, and thankfully prodigious, in scriptwriting and screenplays in the Nigeria movie industry for over 35 years; while the baby of the set is the young director, occasional actor, media entrepreneur and frequent critic, Charles Osa Ighinovia (aka Charles Novia - 20th).

Join me as we felicitate these gifted individuals, and pray for continuing good health and vibrant contributions to the country they love and cherish.

LAOLU AKINS @ 76 “Fifty years ago, three creative instrumentalists - a drummer, a rhythm guitarist and bass guitarist - joined forces to donate their names, talents and dexterity to the pop kingdom of the early 70’s. BLO was formed. And a whirlwind of hits and tours and success followed.

Today, the “L” of BLO. Laolu Oluwole Akins (perhaps, Nigeria’s best snare drummer ever) has foreclosed stage performance for studio production. Since the mid-80’s, Laolu’s magic

fingers have touched many music forms and brought life to many musicians.

His fingerprints were etched on the massive hits, I Need Someone (Kris Okotie); Ace, Shinamania (Shina Peters); Bubble (Adewale Ayuba); Omoge, Rhumba Dance, Concert Fever (Mike Okri), etcetera - all multiple award winners… We thank God for having a Laolu Akins in this millennium, and we certify his industry, resourcefulness, creativity and relentless pursuit of excellence. Drum on, the stick-master.”

(Excerpt from “Millennium Mementoes” of 2000... in my 2011 book, Footprints: Interventions in Nigerian Entertainment) Happy 76th Birthday, Sir Oluwole.

YOMI OLADIJI @ 70 We got close to Baba Yomfash in 2013 when we started the organisation of MEGA (Music & Entertainment Gospel Awards). His ways and direct approach made our discussions robust and goal oriented. He was often the oldest in the committees, and among the earliest to arrive at every of our meetings, yet he would be active and effervescent until the last mInute of each meeting. Not a moment given to religious inanities or needless verbal perambulations.

He was attracted to the concept and direction of MEGA because of his love and desire to support and elevate any process or entity devoted and dedicated to the Almighty. I found Baba Yomfash incredibly unaffected by negativity and hostility. He prods you to get a solution to a seemingly herculean objective, instead of whining in fear and stagnation, fueled by indecision. “Let’s do this NOW! Let’s start that TODAY! There’s no time to waste…” - those are some of his default code chants. Irrepressible!

Baba Yomfash does not understand that a situation cannot be overcome, after all - in his curt as-a-matter-of-fact disposition - we are serving an all-providing God, aren’t we? For Abayomi ‘Fash’ Oladiji, the matter is settled!

What a man… What a servant… What an example!

It was gratifying to felicitate our big brother on the 27th day of November 2022 as he stepped onto the glorious 70th pedestal.

Congratulations!

JOE DUDUN @ 60 He was my colleague at the features desk of the widely read The Punch newspapers, in the 80s. Joseph Oghosanine Dudun carried himself with seriousness and calm confidence. I believe he started freelancing as a scriptwriter with Zeb Ejiro’s Ripples (1987) even while excelling on his job as Assistant Features Editor. Relentless!

He never really left the print media: in 2014 he was the Managing Editor (Features and Special Stories) of Abuja-based Leadership Newspaper, coordinating the reportage of that year’s massive national conference.

Dudun fancies himself a filmmaker and environmentalist - he seeks to perpetuate his passions in his scripts, an artistry that has spanned well over 30 years. He is a founding member of the Scriptwriters and Directors’ guilds, as well as the Association of Movie Producers (AMP), and currently it’s Secretary of the Board of Trustees.

Dudun, best known as one of Nigeria’s most prolific (here that word sounds good) screen playwrights, he has also dabbled into directing. Many of his screenplays have won numerous awards; here are a ‘spreadsheet’ of the major ones: Nneka: The Pretty Serpent (1993), Just A Night, Tears for Love (both 1994); Fatal Desire (with Lamson Yesuf), Onome, Thorns of Rose, Deadly Passion (with Lamson Yesuf - all 1995); Goodbye Tomorrow (1996), Oracle, Never Again (withLamsonYesuf-both1997); Amadas and The Oath (with Samson AguBarry, both 1998); Intimate Strangers (1999), My Best Friend, Azima, Ajana (all 2002); Dons in Abuja (2003), Super Hero, Women World (both 2004), and Ogodobiri (2006).

His prodigious exertions in a seemingly innumerable number of scripts for television plays suggest a restless and fecund mind that somehow can produce satisfactorily under

EBERE WABARA

ewabara@yahoo.com, 08055001948

cannot be inflected (by adding ‘very’). It is an absolute (superlative) word.

“During the heydays of Christian missionary activities in the southern parts of Nigeria, communities were actively involved in building schools.” Thoughts on education: ‘heyday’ is uncountable. (The PUNCH, November 25) “Robbery: Policeman killed by vigilante group” This way: vigilance group.

“The gallantry effort exhibited by the driver of.…”

Get it right: either gallantry or gallant effort. “…armed robbers attacked a Lagos bound (a hyphen) luxurious (luxury) bus at the same spot killing some passengers and made (making) away with several millions of naira belong (belonging) to the travellers who were mostly traders.” What a coarse combination! “…the mess has simply re-occurred because of the propensity of some of our citizens to flout relevant laws and statutes with impunity.” Return to the basics: recurred (never re-occurred).

“Haruna had at (on) various occasions stunned the nation by the level of fraudulent practices the former functionaries had being (been) involved.”

“Nigeria’s soccer house set to take the bull by the horn and change the face of the game.” Sport Today: take the bull by the horns.

“Almost 80 per cent of police stations were either razed to the ground or ransacked.” Obviously, when a property is razed, it sprawls on the ground. Got the hang?

“The wretched has (have) no voice.” ‘.’..the victim is a specie (species) from among the wretched of the earth.”

“We could do nothing against such formidable odds giving (given) the worthless tools at our disposal.”

“Within few (a few) months of his administration, the crime rate in the state ostensibly reduced to the barest minimum.” What is the function of ‘ostensibly’ here?

“The congestion on our roads are (is) very unhealthy for the….”

COUNTERPOINT

FEMI

AKINTUNDE-JOHNSON fajalive1@gmail.com 08033622806- (SMS Only)

these harsh homeland conditions. See what I mean; he wrote several episodes for network soaps, Ripples (from 1987), Candlelight (1998), One Too Much (13 comedic episodes, 2000), Living for Tomorrow (drama, 104 episodes, 2001-2007); Our Time (comedy, 26 episodes, 2006); Broken Songs (soap opera, 65 episodes, 2010), etc….

Truly, a ‘wordy’ fellow of the Muse. By the way, Oghosanine (which in Itsekiri means ‘It is good to have money’) was 60 on 8 November, 2022.

CHARLES NOVIA @ 51 Born into a creative environment in Benin - the father an unpublished author, and mother a singer with filial roots with the Efosa music wizard, Victor Uwaifo - Charles Osa Ighinovia (calibrated to Novia) was set for the limelight at a tender age. After leaving the University of Nigeria, Nsukka in 1993, the fellow with hands in different creative pies launched himself into our consciousness.

He had tested his talents as an MC, a singer, a comedian (ask them at Jazzville)...and writing and acting on TV sit-com (One Big Family)... then he got tired of entertaining frontally, and elected to shift his talents behind the camera. And thus came, via his direction and producership, the following: The Pastor and theHarlot(2002),WhenLoveDies,Husband& Wives (both 2003), Covenant Church, Atlanta, Cinderella, Missing Angel (all 2004); Adam & Eve (2007), Alan Poza (2013), Novia, restless and intuitive, currently runs what can arguably pass as the first TV channel devoted to teen programmes.

Surely the future of our acts is in good hands.

Congratulations, November man!

SATURDAY DECEMBER 3, 2022 • T H I S D AY

33

34

SATURDAY DECEMBER 3, 2022 • T H I S D AY

SATURDAY DECEMBER 3, 2022 • T H I S D AY

35

36

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER DECEMBER 3, 2022

PERSPECTIVE Atiku/Okowa Presidency will Make NDDC Work for the People Tomi Akporoghene

A

t the end of the APC and Muhammadu Buhari’s eight years presidency, the scorecard of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), would be summed up in the strange sentence: “Off your Mic”.

The new introduction to our national parlance simply describes the impunity, collusion and betrayal of the people of Niger Delta by their APC representatives in both federal executive and legislative authorities. Among them are the Deputy President of the Senate, Ovie Omo-Agege, the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio, and their cronies who, rather than defend, opted to dance along in the shortchanging and treachery against their own people.

After all dramatics of forensic audit, the politics of appointing sole administrators, the rigmarole in refusing to appoint a substantive board as required by law and the hearing at the National Assembly, the NDDC ended up submerged in mere politics without delivery.

Writing in the Vanguard Newspaper of November 4, Boniface Dumpe, a native of Ogoniland and a Research Fellow at the Rivers State University, Institute of Agricultural Research and Development, Port Harcourt, captured the situation in these words: “The Buhari administration embarked on a series of aberrations and ordered a forensic audit of the Commission and appointed an interim management committee, to oversee its implementation...At best, the outcome of the forensic audit, as a therapy for the NDDC, is still hazy. What is sure, however, is that the NDDC’s forensic audit has come and gone, and not much has changed in the day-to-day running of the Commission. In

fact, it would appear that the NDDC has slipped into a coma since the conclusion of the forensic audit.

“A key challenge of the NDDC is the alienation of the communities it was set up to serve. Communities are alienated in terms of legitimate participation in the strategic planning process to address their needs. Accessibility of the Commission is limited, while the two-way communication and feedback on programme interventions is not accorded the priority it deserves.”

Dumpe pointed out that another dilemma in the operation of the NDDC is the fact that the commission, rather than being professionally managed, is “perpetually under pressure to appease and satisfy political overlords at the highest level, both in the Executive and Legislative branches of Government. These factors contribute to foisting a culture of opacity, lack of effective monitoring, corruption and patronage.”

Consequently, he observed, it became “virtually impossible for NDDC’s management to concentrate on conceptualising or faithfully implementing any needs-based or strategic plan for Niger Delta’s sustainable development.”

The above theses simply describe the scrambling about the NDDC. Akpabio had his day with Effiong Akwa as Sole Administrator.

The new Managing Director, Engr Emmanuel Audu-Ohwavborua, is generally known to be Omo-Agege’s man. Now, after failing to foist Lauretta Onochie, his Personal Assistant on New Media, as INEC Federal Electoral Commissioner, Buhari has found a place for her as Chairman of the Board of NDDC. The shenanigans go on. Sadly, Senator Peter Nwaoboshi whom they invited to the treacherous squandermania ended up

the effigy.

However, all hope is not lost. With the expectation of Atiku Abubakar and Sen Ifeanyi Okowa’s victory in the 2023 Presidential election, sanity will return for the effective running of the NDDC, towards fulfilling its mandate to the Niger Delta communities.

This is not only because Okowa has seen and knows all about managing development in the oil producing areas, but more because he has delivered it with a clear, result oriented template with the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission, DESOPADEC, which has exemplified the right attitude for efficiency and effectiveness, as an interventionist agency.

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of DESOPADEC, Bashorun Askia Ogieh, has not only ensured that the management of the agency is development-focused, but he also ensures the full convergence of the agency and its communities on needs assessments and articulation of projects and programmes as well as that it’s operations are discharged in professional and corporate best practices.

From community to community across its mandate areas, DESOPADEC has successfully complemented the State Government in the provision of capital and social infrastructure, like roads, bridges, jetties, schools, health delivery facilities, housing, electrification projects, water schemes, markets, agriculture, commerce and many more, while also responding to the challenges of environmental safeguard and regeneration.

The agency has invested itself with commitment to human capital development as symbolised by its establishment of the DESOPADEC Skills Academy, DSA, by which it continues to equip indigenes of its mandate

areas in various entrepreneurial skills.

This special vocational vehicle, now in its third session, trains youth in such technical fields as Welding and Fabrication, ICT/ Hardware and Software Engineering, Electrical Installation and Repairs and building technology, especially in the areas of Tiling, POP and Interlocking.

It also focuses on the fashion, beauty and hospitality industries by offering training in Shoe Making, Skin Care Products manufacturing, Fashion and Design, Hair Dressing and Make-Over and Catering and Confectioneries.

To ensure universal standard in the acquired skills as well as capacity for practice and employability, the trainees are made to undergo all theory, practical and business development sessions and subjected to periodic assessments and trade tests conducted by the Federal Ministry of Labour and Productivity.

The agency has also committed itself to talent development for youth who are interested in the entertainment and creative industry.

It demonstrated responsibilty with its swift response in anticipation of the recent flood by moving ahead to de-silt and open up various canals, drainages and water channels to mitigate the effect of flooding, especially in urban and suburban areas, in the knowledge that the displacement of the huge population of such centres could be catastrophic.

When the flood intensified, DESOPADEC also moved to open up holding camps across its mandate areas to complement those established by the State Government and, besides ensuring adequate provision of facilities and essentials, it further empowered the IDPs with finance to enable them resettle in their homes and businesses with less difficulty when the flood abated.

Read full Tribute online - www.thisdaylive.com

Obi Cubana: An Entrepreneur with the Midas Touch Chidiebere Nwobodo

M

ahatmaGandhi,thefounding father of modern India espoused the ideology of “Seven Deadly Sins” that have plagued the world like a pandemic. In Gandhi’s moral exposition, he mentioned ‘Wealth Without Enterprise’ as part of the Seven Deadly Sins that have eroded moral values with its attendant consequences—increasing criminality, avarice, corruption, brain drain, mass poverty, etc. Africa as a continent is still struggling to find her feet in the comity of nations because we have not prioritised the virtue of celebrating those who are creating wealth via entrepreneurship, rather in this part of the world, we criminalize entrepreneurs, protect rent-seekers and celebrate politicians who live off public resources, albeit unfortunately.

Today, I have chosen to flip the coin and beam my searchlight on one of the fastest rising entrepreneurs in Nigeria. Like a golden fish he has never been hidden. Dr. Obinna Iyiegbu— aka Obi Cubana, is an embodiment of wealth through enterprise and exemplar of the school of thought that hardwork pays. He has literally turned stone into bread using his business ingenuity. He has not only created wealth via entrepreneurship but has metamorphosed into a role model and mentor for the youths aspiring to attend financial freedom through passion, driven by quest for self-actualization.

His interest in young entrepreneurs is unparalleled in a nation where billionaires find it difficult to come down from their olympian height to the pedestrian level, to lend a helping hand to starters who are struggling to find the compass of life.

As a result of Dr. Obinna Iyiegbu’s entrepreneurial strides, he was recently conferred with honorary Doctorate Degree in Business Administration by the Enugu State University (ESUT). One week before the conferment, New Telegraph Newspaper recognised him with an award of “The Entrepreneur of the Year, 2022”. These awards are well-deserved and

Cubana

merited. Obi Cubana’s the Midas touch in businessworld is so glaring—visible to the blind and audible to the deaf. In one and half decades of entrepreneurial voyage, Obi Cubana has built chains of 21st century businesses that has become successful in all its ramifications, these milestones have made him an authority in entrepreneurship that inspired management of Lagos Business School (LBS) to invite him to the citadel of learning to share his wisdom as long as the world of investment cum wealth creation is concerned.

It was not a coincident that the honorary doctorate degree conferred on him was on Business Administration. Dr. Obinna Iyiegbu might have been awarded honorary degree but he is a walking encyclopedia of entrepreneurship that embodies PhD thesis on how-to-run-businesses-successfully. Check out his different enterprising entities—from nightclubs to restaurants to hotels to beverages to real estates, et cetera, all depict him as a great leader of people and manager of resources with the Midas touch. It is a well-known fact that Obi Cubana revolutionized nightlife in

Nigeria through his exotic nightclubs, bars, restaurants and hotels. You cannot talk of the massive growth in the nation’s hospitality industry in the last ten years without the name “Obi Cubana” looming larger than life.

Hustle & Bustle—exquisite nightclub and restaurant located at the heart of Abuja, is a world of its own and magnificent representation of spirit of excellence in entertainment industry. His recently refurbished and reopened nightclubs—Crave Cubana (Abuja) and Pablo Cubana (Lagos) are at the top of ranking of most exotic nightclubs in the country. What of Cubana Rhapsody—exclusive VIP nightclub and restaurant, situated in Ikeja, Lagos? one of the wonders created by Obi Cubana! It lives up its name as rhapsody of relaxation with topnotch ambience of hospitality. The same signature of excellence is also seen in the quality of services rendered by Grand Cubana Hotels, Cubana Suites, Ibiza, and other hospitality outlets operated by Cubana Group.

Dr. Obinna Iyiegbu has engraved his name on the landscape of hospitality and entertainment industries in the country.

From an open garden in Garki, Abuja, Obi Cubana started his hospitality business. Despite the odds faced by startups as a result of harsh business environment, then fresh graduate of Political Science from University of Nigeria, Nsukka, after his mandatory NYSC did not want to join the bandwagon of unemployed graduates roaming the streets looking for non-existent white-collar job. Neither did he consider the ignoble path of criminality to accumulate wealth, he began running his small restaurant business having in mind the inspiring words of Martin Luther King, Jr. that faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the entire staircase. Not minding the storms on the way, that small business, like a mustard seed, has grown up to become one of the biggest hospitality conglomerates in Africa. Like Mahatma Gandhi admonished, Obi Cubana has created wealth via enterprise and should be celebrated to encourage our youths to tow the same lane of ingenuity in the pursuit of wealth.

One of the major factors propelling the rapid growth of Cubana Empire is the exceptionally marketing skill of Dr. Obinna Iyiegbu of which he has recreated in his staff. Obi Cubana can sell ice to the Eskimos! His personality and believability are so charming that those living near Sahara Dersert can start buying sand from Obi Cubana if he decides to start packaging it for sell. He can remake a little known brand of product to become the most popular and highly sort-after in the market just in a couple of months. How he does is still a mystery to me and some of his admirers. Some call it grace, others define it as a skill. Take for example Odogwu Bitters. Before the advent of Odogwu Bitters into the bitters market, bitters used to be known as the drink of the downtrodden, low class and the rejects of the society to the extent that some people of higher class could not take bitters in the open in order not to be associated with the lowliest of the society.

Obi Cubana came into the bitters market and changed the game. In less than few months of introducing the product, Odogwu Bitters became more popular than some of the beers, champagnes and soft drinks in the country.

Odogwu Bitters became a big deal that Nigerians all of the world started ordering for it. Demand of the product by far outweighed supply to the extent that bigger factory of production is being built to accommodate skyrocketing rise of demand. I am yet to see any product in Nigeria that has attracted such level of publicity cum frenzy to the point that content creators began producing skits, and freely promoting Odogwu Bitters just because Obi Cubana is associated with it. The product has gone global with foreigners proudly promoting it on social media. In the history of beverages in Nigeria, no indigenous drink has gotten such level of international publicity in few months to the extent that Obi Cubana and his team are travelling round the world opening offices just for the distribution of Odogwu Bitters being produced locally in the country.

Read full Tribute online - www.thisdaylive.com

37

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER DECEMBER 3, 2022

TRAVEL AND LEISURE

Brian Efa

Once we Open, Celsius Hotels Will Challenge International Brands Justina Uzo

A

t the 2015 edition of the Nigeria Hotel and Tourism Investment Conference (NHTIC), held at the then Intercontinental Hotel Lagos, a young and passionate convener of the conference tasked government, speakers and participants on more concerted efforts at making the tourism and hospitality sector count in the nation’s economy.

Hepushedforalltogobeyondpaperpresentation atthethree-dayconferencetoofferingpracticable solutions for the growth of their businesses.

Today, the man, Brian Efa has gone ahead to implementhisownsolutionswithvalueformoney offerings for hotel owners, investors and guests.

With over two decades of experience across many brands and sectors within the industry, Efa created Celsius Hotels, an indigenous hotel brand,toofferqualitybeyondcomfortablebeds,to helpinghotelownersinvestmoreduetohisprofitable model and also to help the sector optimize its potential in revenue generation, job creation and talent development.

As he envisaged, Celsius Hotels is competing with international chains, while providing better returns on investments for owners.

Efa’s Celsius Hotels is showing strength with Courtyard By Celsius, a pioneering short let apartments chain in the country.

BeyondCelsiusHotels,Efahasmanyotherfeats.

He restored Ibom Hotel and Golf Resort after the exit of Le Meridien and also took over Victoria CrownPlazaVictoriaIsland,LagosfromtheSwiss Hotel brand and has been managing it better as the general manager since early this year.

Speaking on his career success so far, he said,

Brian Efa

“There are three guiding principles that drive success in my career; these are commitment, commitment and commitment. Commitment to success is my driving force. I believe, once you have a responsibility, you should see to it that this responsibility is given the required attention to achieve the expected results.

“ThisisthereasonIalwaysproduceresultswhereverIfindmyselfinanyhotel.Furthermore,Iamin the industry out of passion; very serious passion and that is why you will see that beyond managing hotels, I also contribute to the development of

this industry through research papers, speaking in conferences and in other ways.”

Efa recognises Celsius Hotels brand as one of his biggest success stories.

“When we started Celsius Hotel Brand in 2020, ourvisionwastocreateanindigenoushotelbrand thatwillcompetefavorablywiththeinternational brands.

“Also, we wanted to provide an alternative that will help investors/owners make better return on investment, reduce the need for purchase of forex to pay management fees, among others.”

For him, that vision is paying off. “Today, we have two hotels under development, one in Abuja and the other in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. We are also in discussionwithacoupleof4-starhoteldevelopers on Victoria Island Lagos. When our hotels open in the first quarter of 2023, we will be adding 135 roomstotheinventoryofhotelsinNigeria,”hesaid.

Whiletheprogresshehasmadeisveryencouraging and he is grateful to Nigerian investors that havekeptfaithwiththeCelsiusHotelsbrand,onthe backend,hiscompanyhasdevelopedwell-tailored SOPsandotherstandardstomakeCelsiuscompete and stand out from the crowd.

“We have also signed agreements with various technologycompanies/providersthatwillsupport ourbrand,weareworkingonthebackendtosupport ourownersduringthedevelopmentstage,andwe are helping in critical designs, procurement and installation of critical infrastructure.

“Onthesoftside,wearedevelopingandimproving on our brand standards, policies and procedures, SOPs,technologyrequirements,trainingmanual, among others. We are also discussing with technology providers, our technical support systems, centralreservationsystem,bookingchannelsand loyalty programmes,” Efa explained.

Heinsists,“OnceweopenourfirsthotelinMarch 2023,wewillgivetheinternationalbrandsarunfor their money as we will be providing a very credible alternative in a more cost-effective way.”

OnthecurrentportfolioofCelsiusbrandandthe anticipated ones, Efa disclosed that the brand is intalkswithtwodifferenthotelinvestorsinLagos State.

“Weareintalksfora150-roomhoteldevelopment projectonVictoriaIsland,Lagos,whichisexpected to commence construction in the second quarter of2023.Wearehopefulthatby2028,wewillhave fivehotelsunderourmanagement,”heconcluded.

NEWS

Dickson, Alaibe Declare Support for Ndiomu

F

ormer Governor of Bayelsa State, and Senator representing Bayelsa West, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson and former Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, Chief Timi Alaibe, have declared support for the Interim Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, Maj Gen Barry Ndiomu.

The two prominent Niger Delta leaders said that they have confidence in the ability of Ndiomu to run the Amnesty Office effectively to the benefit of the region, the appointing authority and the country.

Dickson and Alaibe spoke shortly after a meeting at the Senator’s Maitama residence, Abuja, yesterday morning.

They thanked President Muhammadu Buhari and the National Security Adviser

Babagana Monguno, for the appointment of Ndiomu to pilot the affairs of the critical agency.

The two prominent citizens called on the stakeholders, beneficiaries and youth groups across the Niger Delta to give the requisite support to the leadership of Ndiomu at the PAP in the interest of the region.

Senator Dickson and Alaibe also appealed to the Presidency to give the needed financial support to enable the new PAP leader to actualize his lofty programmes of the PAP such as the important scholarship programme, skill acquisition, development and prompt payment of stipends to beneficiaries.

“We declare support for the continuation of the PAP, call on the beneficiaries and stakeholders for support and understanding for the Interim Administrator of the Amnesty Programme, Maj. Gen. Barry Ndiomu, (retd).

L-R: Senator Henry Seriake Dickson; Interim Administrator, Presidential Amnesty Programme, Maj. Gen. Barry Ndiomu (retd), and former Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, Chief Timi Alaibe in Abuja …yesterday

HIV: Ogun Pallies TBAs to Check Mother to Child Transmission James Sowole in Abeokuta

D

etermined to check Mother to Child Transmission of HIV in the state and ensure treatment, the Ogun State Ministry of Health through the State Agency for Control of AIDS (OGSACA),hasstartedrelating with Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAs) in order to expand test to pregnant women that are not accessing Anti Natal Care (ANC), in government recognised facilities.

The State Commissioner for Health, Dr Tomi Coker, disclosed this at a news conference to

commemorate the Year 2022 World AIDS Day, with the theme “Equalise” breaking into Equalise To End AIDS; Equal Access To Prevention; Equal Access To Treatment.”

Coker, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Dr Kehinde Oladehinde, said it has been realised that many women, were running away from registering at the government approved health facilities, for Anti Natal Care..

He said the fact that there are still prevalence of Mother to Child transmission of HIV, means that initial efforts were not achieving desired results because many pregnant women still patronise TBAs The commissioner said it was through several

efforts aimed at testing more people by adopting various channels, that made identification. of over 5,000 new cases, this year in the state, possible.

She said, “We are doing what we call targeted testing, where we test people we can refer to as high risk, we are also doing community testing, we are also doing one stop shop, where people, whocannotjustwalkintoanyhealthcarefacilities because of stigmatization and discrimination, get tested. So we are providing environment, where they can just walk in and do the test. This is where we are able to get like 5000 out of them this year.

“It is a great effort and we must appreciate the government for that effort, if we are not doing

this all this 5,000 people will just be roaming about and be spreading it.

“If we rest on our oars and limit ouself that it is only the pregnant women that come to our PHC that we are focusing for testing, we shall be missing a lot of them.

That was why we embarked on mapping exercise to TBAs identification so that moving forward,wecanreachthepregnantwomengoing there so that once they are tested positive of HIV, they will be linked with health centres where they can access prevention treatment.

Giving statistics of HIV situation in Ogun State, Coker said 45,965 persons, are estimated to be living with HIV, as of November 30th, 2022, while 5,406 tested positive in November

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER DECEMBER 3, 2022

38

INTERVIEW Aminu Masari

Oil Exploration in the North will Help to Balance the Federation He is a humble man who set out to demystify and simplify governance and its powers. Cool headed and consummate politician, Aminu Bello Masari prepared his agenda for developing Katsina State before he got power. The man who would want to retire to his farm than retire to the senate spoke to Ahamefula Ogbu, Charles Ajunwa and Francis Sarduana on his drive to improving education, security and livelihood of his people…excerpts

I

n what developmental stage did you meet Katsina State in 2015 and where have you led the state to?

We christened our movement as Restoration. We knew the condition of our school system by 2015 when we came on board.

For example, we know that since 2011 up to 2015 when we came in, Katsina State never recorded more than 11 per cent in the West African Examination Council (WAEC). Also, the state never recorded more than 20 per cent in the National Examination Council (NECO).

These are the two main examination bodies that prepare students for tertiary education, and from there you can easily know the state of your education; where you presented over 50,000 and end up with only 5,000. And you know with this calculation, talking about Katsina State indigenes wherever they may be in the country once they registered with WAEC as Katsina State indigenes the totality of percentage they will carry would be given on the basis of those figures. So, public schools are the key for us because public schools are where 90 per cent of the children of the people of Katsina are. So, probably out of the 10 or 11 per cent you may find, maybe four or five per cent are children of well-to-do or those from private schools. From the records we saw and what we were able to assess, the passes at public school level were three per cent, the rest of the state indigenes are the ones from private schools and those who are not residing in Katsina; they live in Kano, Kaduna, Port Harcourt and Abuja. So, you can see the state of our education.

Once the state of education is bad it means everything is bad.The same goes to the health sector.

Most of the maternity rooms were using a small generator called ‘I pass my neighbour’, lamplighter, batterychargedlightbutIwantyoutovisitourhospitals today and see our (Out Patient Departments (OPDs) and admission rooms to see how we have been able to upgrade our hospitals. Most of our general hospitals have been upgraded and we are still working for their needs. We are proud to say that we have touched every sector. We have constructed new roads and rehabilitated all the broken-down roads except those that are in areas that are bedeviled with insecurity.

Even those ones we have awarded contracts but the contractors cannot freely go to sites: some have already started paying mobilisation fees but because of COVID-19 and insecurity made the work to go slow but we are happy with what we have been able to do with the little resources.

Whoever wants to judge us, should judge us on the basis of what we are able to get and what we are able to do. Like I said, we have touched every sector. We promised agriculture, we have done a lot on agriculture and water. Today, the record of our performance in terms of water production from Ajiwa, which is the main stage, is performing ultimately. We have records in our reservoirs that for the last 20 years have never happened. All the pumps, generating sets, clarifiers and everything in Ajiwa Water Works are brand new. We have done the same in Malumfashi and Funtua, and luckily enough the federal government came in and completed Jobe which is adding another 60 million litres of water supply in Katsina. We are leaving our footprints in Katsina for posterity to judge us.

COVID-19 and slump in oil prices reduced funds available to states. How were you able to raise funds to execute your mandate?

We are being very prudent in terms of managing the resources that are available to us and above all, we have never missed any month without paying

Masari

You know an act of God is to send down water from the sky but the same God gives us the wisdom to start dredging Katsina in 2017 and not only Katsina city.

The Ecological Fund that monthly is being deducted from both state and local governments, we have opened an account where we are depositing this money. We spent nothing less than N4 billion every year to address the issue of flooding across the state salary. We have never missed a month without paying pension to pensioners. Where we have arrears is in the area of gratuity which every month, we are making available about N500 million settling gratuity. So, it is about prudent management of available resources that made us achieve the little achievements we have achieved so far.

Whatarethefactorsthatyouthinkworked against the ultimate performance of your administration?

Like you rightly said, in 2017 in the months of November and December the oil price dropped to $28 per barrel. At that time, it was not even economical to produce before the price could recover, we went into recession immediately after recession came COVID that partially shut down the world. So, the demand for even the mainstream of the economy which is oil was not there. So, that is another factor.

Then, fighting the bandits, we are spending a lot of money in terms of support to security

agencies by way of paying their monthly allowances, procurement of vehicles and working materials for them and establishment of a communication centre.

Without the state these security agencies cannot even move an inch. So, that is also draining the available resources to state and local governments because as we are doing likewise the local government: the police, military, DSS, NSCDC and the vigilantes that are posted there, we are arming and paying them.

A lot of resources of the state which would have gone into other developments are channeled to the security agencies. So, these three phases drastically affected the performance of our state.

If security and other distractions didn’t come up, what were the things that you have planned to do?

You see, we came into governance with a Restoration Programme which we pursued. We enriched our Restoration Agenda. When we were campaigning, we had committees in every known subject and during the campaign in each local government we were taking needs as requested by the communities.

That was what was taking part of our budget to make sure that we incorporated those requests from the communities.

Looking at what we have been able to do under the circumstances if the resources have been available, for example, to say we have been getting between $80 to $100 per barrel throughout, to say there was no distraction in Niger Delta you could remember there was a time a country was not producing up to 500, 000 barrel per day because of activities of militants and oil thefts. If you remember there was a celebration sometime last week that we hit 1,000,000 barrels whereas our OPEC quarter with 2.2 million and this 2.2 million has been on even before 2007 but in our own case it dropped to less than 500,000. So, I want you to imagine if these factors did not affect the revenue accrued to the state, the issue of banditry has not affected the state, without COVID where would have our state and the country be?. We would have been far ahead from where we are today.

What security model did you use in achieving peace so far in the state?

First of all, we involved everybody because security is the business of everybody. Then, we created a three-tier security structure backed by law right from the village to district, local government and to state levels. We involved our traditional institutions, religious and traditional leaders right from point zero and their involvement is backed by law. The judiciary also formed alternative dispute resolution centres to help in settling minor civil disputes within communities and above all, to make sure that every tenant is probably registered: his trade is known and where he practises that trade is known that is if he is not a paid employee. To monitor and make sure whoever sells or buys a house its particulars are properly documented, transactions of any land must register with the alternative dispute resolution

39

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER DECEMBER 3, 2022

INTERVIEW Oil Exploration in the North will Help Balance the Federation centres.

We also institutionalised our vigilante system by giving them sufficient training so that they will be able to know how to handle firearms to support the security agencies. Our targets for this year is to recruit 3,000 and before December, the training of an additional 1,900 will commence because we have paid money and mobilised the instructors: they are busy now shortlisting and screening them. Really, we made it everybody’s business in our Mosque and other places of worship in synergy with the Christian community. This issue of security tops the agenda of my administration. I am talking to people, don’t be passive and don’t sit by the roadside and only criticise, what have you done? If you know an informant and suspicious movement within your community, quietly report to security agencies for investigation.

So, how do you deal with the issue of porous land borders?

You know between Nigeria and Niger Republic, there are over 1,900 kilometres of open borders and one thing about the border is not only that it is open, the communities living along the border between Nigeria and Niger are the same. They have the same culture, speak the same language and the same religion. Unless you are from that part, you will not understand when somebody speaks but certainly people around that area when you are from the English side when you speak they will be able to know, if you are from the French side because the way they speak or write things are different. But we are the only people who know the difference.

In order to address that, last month we had a meeting with the governors of Maradi, Sokoto, Zamfara and Kebbi here in Katsina to discuss this trans-human border issue. All our security heads were in the meeting. They also came with theirs. There is a sharp drop of bandits crossing from Niger to Nigeria and from Nigeria to Niger. And the armed forces of both countries have a right to enter up to a certain level per kilometre when they are pursuing bandits or insurgents so that is also helping us. The chairmen of various local governments bordering Nigeria and their counterparts from Niger are also working together sharing information with regards to movement of suspicious persons. Everybody is concerned about the porous nature of the border.

The borders are artificial so policing an artificial border of 1,900 kilometres is not easy.

What have you done on the issue of illegal drugs?

This is what is influencing bandits because without hard drugs they wouldn’t be able to do what they are doing now. I am happy to say that the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Commandant now in Katsina is really working together with other security agencies. He has made more seizures than what was obtained before. Therefore, on the other side they are working and on this side, we are working.

Also, some of these non-governmental organisations are equally involved in addressing the issue of drugs.

Some of the bandits are also giving orders to some of their foot soldiers that they should kill anybody they see bringing hard drugs into the forests because they also have lost control over their people. They are now stealing from their parents. Certainly, there is a negative effect of drugs and the movement of small arms from North Africa to Mali, Niger into Nigeria but of recent, the most disturbing aspect is that some of these arms and ammunition are coming into Katsina and Zamfara through Plateau and Nasarawa axis.

What has happened to ungoverned spaces in the state?

The issue of ungoverned space is a huge problem.

The only way to address it is through technology that gives you information of every movement in the forest.

But believe you me, if you take the entire numbers of the armed forces and the police this Zamfara forest can consume them without them even moving to some parts of the forests. And if you go to Niger Republic two-third of Niger is ungoverned. We have open ungoverned spaces all over but I believe with effective use of technology we will be able to monitor what is happening in the entire forest area of Nigeria, not only Katsina. What we need to do is to spend more and do more on technology and intelligence gathering that can give us early warning information so that we can be proactive rather than reactive.

Is it true that some bandits’ leaders in the state have started surrendering their weapons?

I think you have to verify that with the military report. For me, nobody has reported anybody that handed over his arms and ammunition to me. I am not aware of it. And if it has happened, I would have

say it has happened because with the participation of state government and NEWMAP the whole area has been restored: a water channel has been built and they are going to start Phase 2 of that construction

by January next year. They did intervention here in Katsina which cost the World Bank, minus our contribution, over N8.9 billion. From the government resource, we have spent over N15 billion in Katsina City alone from 2017 to date in order to drain water from Katsina City.

The World Bank also intervened in Malumfashi.

The town has been having that perennial flooding since when I was a boy because I did my primary school in Malumfashi, so I had the experience. When I was the Speaker of the House of Representatives, I started drainage work. We were able to even at that time spend about N165 million to drain some parts of Malumfashi but with the participation of NEWMAP and the state government flooding has become history in Malumfashi. Areas in Funtua local government that when it rains the rain water runs into graveyards exposing dead bodies, today is history. So, the restoration we have done in terms of addressing floods has significantly minimised the issues.

Masari

known because the first thing I do in the morning is to read the report from the Commissioner of Police then read also the report from the DSS and a report from my SA on Security who gets daily briefing from the Brigade Commander. In all these reports, I have not seen that. What I have seen is that some of the bandits are trying to find ways where discussion with the government will resume again but who will trust them? I will not because they are never sincere. The only thing they know and respect is the superiority of power. If they know you are superior to them, they will follow you but when they suspect that they have more arms they do and undo. When they want peace, they decide to give some people peace so that they can buy more arms and ammunition. I don’t trust them and I will never go back negotiating with them.

With the approach of involving everybody in tackling security challenges, will you now support state police?

We have made our position as northern governors very clear even in our proposal for constitutional amendment. We support creation of state police after all, the police that are here at least the minimum we can say we provide 60 to 70 per cent of their upkeeps. The issue here is we want to have a police force that cannot undermine the national police but as we grow in population so our security agencies will grow, more outfits will come working on the same thing to ensure peace.

Look, even if the police have the numbers in terms of our population, do they have the culture and tradition of whichever community they go to?

No. So, one way or the other the work is too much for the police. There was a time in this country when the Nigerian police and the native authority police were co-existing. It was the military that abolished the native authority police and transferred all their functions to the Nigerian police which was a mistake. The intention was good but the foresight was not in the sense that a policeman is supposed to be somebody who is conversant and knowledgeable with the locality he is policing, who knows and respects the culture and tradition of the community he is policing. If you take me as a police officer and post me to a community in Oyo or Enugu to be a DPO or Commissioner of Police I am seriously limited and I will depend only on what some people will tell me because I don’t have the knowledge of the area or the people.

So, the reality is we need state police. In a way, we are now training all over the country local hunters, vigilantes and arming them so what is the difference?

In the South-west, they have Amotekun, here we have various vigilantes under various names state by state. We established road traffic control

agencies with certain degrees of powers in terms of supporting security. So, why can’t we constitutionalised what we have and expand it.

How do you take the issue of executives abusing the power of state police?

We cannot forever be living in the past. Do you think I can only abuse the police or the opportunity under state police?What is the role given by the state police under the constitution?

Secondly, he who pays the piper dictates the tune. Like I said, we provide between 60 to 70 per cent of what is keeping them moving in the state. Are we manipulating or misusing them? And when you recruit police, are you saying that you must recruit this colour not that colour? You are recruiting indigenes of the state who may have different opinions and beliefs even politically but they have the right to be. And what is the state House of Assembly doing? There are checks and balances. We also have vibrant social NGOs and civil society organisations in this country who can blow the whistle whenever there is an attempt to abuse the power of state police.

What is your take on the recent exploration of oil in the North?

It is not about the discovery of oil in the North. Oil has been discovered in the North for a very long time. The exploration now that is starting, we hope it will help in balancing the federation and increase the revenue accruing to the federation.

We noticed that the devastating effect of recent flooding across the country didn’t affect Katsina like other states. Was it due to planning or an act of God? You know an act of God is to send down water from the sky but the same God gives us the wisdom to start dredging Katsina in 2017 and not only Katsina city. The Ecological Fund that monthly is being deducted from both state and local governments, we have openedanaccountwherewearedepositingthis money. We spent nothing less than N4 billion every year to address the issue of flooding across the state. Currently, we are on Phase 5 of the programme and we are spending N4.3 billion this year which will end by 31 December. Luckily enough, the World Bank under NEWMAP came with heavy intervention in Jibia.You heard what happened in Jibia where over 80 lives were lost.

Today, if you visit that place you will never

Before you came in 2015 school enrollment, especially that of girl-child, was a challenge in Katsina. What have you done to change the narrative?

Youhavetolookatwhatwehavebeenabletospend under capital projects in terms of improving the level of primary schools. First, additional classes. Secondly, furniture and thirdly, rehabilitation and payment of teachers’ salary as well as all their promotions that were withheld for more than 10 years.

And above all, the school feeding programme of the federal government has improved school enrollment and retention in the state. Even today, I stopped at a primary school in Sayaya, the headmaster said apart from the infrastructure we had provided, school feeding greatly helped enrollment and retention of school children. In 2015, the enrollment was 1.1, today it is 2.2 in primary schools and the number keeps on growing. We have neglected investing where we should have invested. We had the opportunity to invest heavily in education. There was an initial attempt under the Universal Basic Education (UBE) but it was abandoned. If we had continued the way we had started maybe the issue of banditry wouldn’t have been as worse as it is today because part of what is fuelling banditry is illiteracy. Give your citizens education they will do everything for themselves.

Some people say the defection of Dr. Mustapha Inuwa to PDP will affect APC chances of winning the 2023 election, what is your take on this?

We want to know with whom he has moved because in his local government (Danmusa) we have 324 executives of the party, 26 followed him.

The entire leadership of his local government was here two days ago and the entire stakeholders of APC in his local government did not move with him. You see, it is the culture in Nigeria that after primaries…today somebody will tell you that I believe in God and he can even go further to tell you that what is his own shall never miss his face.

He will also say whatever is good for the state or for the country he will follow. We all say these but immediately it happens I don’t get what I want I will start saying a different thing.

I will start accusing people that they were the ones who did not make it possible for me.

Where is the God you were calling? You would have said if I don’t get it, I will get out. Look at how the primaries were conducted in Nigeria. You see we are religious: on Sunday we dress very well and go to church and on Friday, we dress elegantly to go to our mosques but that is only the attractive aspect of religion. Believing in God is believing in what is good and what is bad. In Nigeria, hardly people lost primary elections without one of them going out.

It is our culture and tradition. We are lucky that we had nine aspirants that conducted the governorship primary, eight including the winner are still with us and one other person opted out for personal reasons.

As somebody opted out somebody opted in so we are not worried.

What is your take on the newly redesigned naira notes?

I have no problem with the redesigning of the naira notes. Are you one of those who stacked money in their houses and are afraid of taking it to the bank because they will ask you where did you get it? I am sure when you are a young man you read James Hadley Chase who says the ‘Guilty Are Afraid’.

Saturday, Deccember 3, 2022

TR

UT H

& RE A S O

N

Price: N250

MISSILE

FG to State Govs “Governors are competing to build flyovers all over the place, we appeal that they should concentrate on building rural roads so that farmers can at least get their products to the market.”

–The federal government accusing state governors of complicity in the rising poverty in the country.

UCHEANICHUKWU GUEST COLUMNIST

Enugu 2023: It’s the Economy, Stupid

T

he relationship between democracy and the economy is like the one between the fish and water. After all, according to the Greek philosopher, Aristotle, the state exists “for the sake of life, and continues for the sake of the best life”, hence man is only willing to subject himself to the state to the extent that his rights and welfare are catered for. In that wise, democracy is not an end in itself, but a means to an end – primarily the security and welfare of citizens is aptly captured in Section 14 (2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution.

In a 2005 Democracy Day lecture, “The Political Economy of Sustainable Democracy in Nigeria”, former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria and incumbent Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Charles Soludo, said, “broad-based prosperity sustains democracy whereas widespread poverty and ignorance undermine it”.

Also, in their 1996 research article, “What Makes Democracy Endure”, published in the Journal of Democracy, Adam Przeworski, Michael Alvarez, Jose Cheibub, and Fernando Limongi empirically established the relationship between economic prosperity and survival of democracy. According to the scholars, “Once a country has a democratic regime, its level of economic development has very strong effect on the probability that democracy will survive”.

Going further, they said: “Democracy can be expected to last an average of about 8.5 years in a country with per capita income under $1000 per annum; 16 years in one with income between $1000 $2000; 33 years between $2000 $4000 and 100 years between $4000 $6000….

Above $6000 democracies are impregnable and can be expected to live forever. No democratic system has fallen in country where per capita income exceeds $6055”.

Whereas their findings may not be cast in iron, they nevertheless underscore the point that democracy does not thrive on an empty stomach.

For the sake of the economy, governments have been voted out, while democracies have been entirely upended. We saw it in the 1992 U.S presidential election when Bill Clinton’s campaign adviser, James Carville, capitalised on the economic recession of the time by coining the popular catchphrase, “It’s the economy, stupid!” to trump President George H.W Bush’s re-election bid. Also, virtually every military coup in the developing nations has been predicated on corruption and economic hardship and is often greeted with jubilation by suffering masses, but who ultimately realise that they jumped from frying pan to fire.

Today, the Nigerian economy is in a state of emergency. The tragedy of it is that unlike other federations like the U.S, which boasts of about $3.36 trillion GDP in California, $2.1 trillion GDP in Texas and $2.0 trillion GDP in New York, all in different states and usually driven by various industries, ours is a mono economy that virtually rises and falls on oil and where states practically depend on the Federation Account for survival. Worse, while the states need innovative and ambitious economic visionaries to turn things around, the economy is seldom the meat of the campaigns, especially

Peter Mbah

at that level.

It is therefore heart-warming that the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, is redefining electioneering at that level by not only making the economy the crux of the matter, but also unveiling an ambitious economic and development agenda built outside the Abuja monthly allocations. Mbah believes that with the right vision and partnerships, Enugu’s natural and human resources are enough to grow the state’s economy from the present $4.4 billion to $30 billion, make it one of the top three states in Nigeria in terms of GDP and have the state enjoy a zero per cent headcount rate in terms of poverty index.

Those who initially saw a $30 billion economy as a slip of tongue got another shocker when he presented his manifesto in October. He not only put it in black and white, but also committed to building at least 10,000km of urban and rural roads in eight years. Some called his attention to what they believed to be typographical errors. No administration has done a thousand kilometres of roads in Enugu, and hardly any Nigerian president has done 10,000 kilometres. For instance, the President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration has done 8,352.94 kilometres as at October 2022.

But here is a governorship hopeful promising 10,000 kilometres.

The doubts are understandable in a country where people are used to the conventional and states survived on Abuja handouts. But Mbah is a proponent of quantum leap and disruptive innovation, which he has amply demonstrated in the private sector. Although the downstream market was already saturated and distributed as at 2008 when Pinnacle Oil and Gas commenced operations with just two staff in a one-room apartment in Lagos, the Pinnacle Founder/ CEO nevertheless, in a few years, took the company to number one in that sector. Only recently, President Buhari inaugurated Pinnacle’s $1 billion and Nigeria’s first offshore, subsea, and

largest petroleum products terminal in Lekki.

Sharing that experience with newsmen in October, Mbah said: “Even from that humble beginning, we envisioned that we were going to play a dominant role in the petroleum products market in Nigeria. I recall, when we brought in some resource people to train us on strategy, we expressed to them how we wanted to grow our revenue then from N29 billion to N600 billion annually. They thought it was mad; that it was only crazy people that could imagine such a thing, because you don’t grow at that rate.

However, today, we have beaten that number.

We are not even at N600 billion; we are well above that”.

To achieve the envisioned economic revolution in Enugu, Mbah plans have agro-allied industrialisation alone contribute $10 billion to Enugu’s GDP to engender that would yield and make the state an agro export hub. Building on the existing agro-allied initiatives of the Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi administration such as breeding of local cows (Efi Igbo) and PPP arrangement with Ellah Lakes at Adarice in Uzo Uwani, Mbah plans to create Special Agriculture Processing Zones (SAPZ); Technology for Agriculture Systems Transformation, Enugu (TASTE); E-Wallet that will introduce highyielding seeds, fertilizers and farm inputs to farmers; M-Farm that will communicate directly to suppliers and off-takers and thereby cutting off middle men; and a rejig of the land tenure system (working with the communities and the Enugu State House of Assembly) to make land accessible to large scale commercial farmers.

He plans to catalyse energy and mineral resources development by attracting investors to explore and exploit Enugu’s oil and gas fields, coal, glass sand, iron ore, gypsum, limestone, alum, clay stone, kaolin, and other mineral deposits. Good enough, Governor Ugwuanyi’s has successfully pushed Enugu’s enlistment as an oil-bearing state. Mbah equally plans to have Enugu explore renewable energy and tap into existing finance to setup captive power for industries and homes, and explore solar energy, wind, biomass and hydroelectric energy sources.

As a businessman, who understands the challenges of starting up businesses in Nigeria, he plans to initiate and implement policies to effect ease of doing business, de-risk investment flow, set up a N100 billion venture capital seed funds to aid small businesses and start-ups with access to funding, upscale the Common Export Facility Centre being developed by the Ugwuanyi administration, create Innovation Incubation Centres for young entrepreneurs, and develop a Program for Apprenticeship System for vocational education.

To achieve these and other strategic programmes that cover a wide range of other sectors, he has developed various funding models that include blocking revenue leakages, enhancing the state’s IGR, attracting private sector investors, Diaspora Investment Bond and Securitization, expanding the tax net without increasing the tax rate, innovative co-financing with the private sector, and financial institutions and international development banks to attract funds and investments.

Mbah does not miss any opportunity to

market his vision. Most recently, Mbah spoke at the official opening of the Godfrey Okoye University–European Business Park and Centre for Practical Skills (CPS) in Enugu, which had in attendance the Ambassador of Hungary to Nigeria, Mr. Thomas Schlesinger; Minister Counsellor of Germany in Nigeria, Mr. Martin Huth; Country Director of the German Agency for International Cooperation, Mr. Markus Margner; Director-General of the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD), Dr. Michael Spindelegger, among a host of investors. The initiative is a unique collaboration that brings together migration experts, the university, and private sector to create businesses and employments in Nigeria.

Taking the investment community through his economic masterplan, he explained that the initiative was in sync with his plans to catalyse technical skills and vocational education, de-risk investment inflow, and make Enugu State a preferred destination for investment, business, and for living. He plans to propose to the State House of Assembly legislation for compulsory technical skills and vocational training from age 12 so that at some point, nobody aged 18 would be jobless.

Mbah’s case shows that when you believe in yourself, when you champion a clear vision with a credible roadmap, you are likely to enjoy the buy-in of the private sector, foreign investors and governments. For instance, an investor from Europe at the Enugu event, Mr. Jens-Christian Moller, who could not hide his captivation with Mbah’s presentation, believes that while extra efforts will be needed to achieve seven times the state’s current GDP, it is attainable nevertheless.

He expressed the eagerness of his company to partner with Mbah if elected and once the right policies and legal frameworks were in place.

Likewise, the Consul General of Denmark in Nigeria, Per Christensen, said that the mission had corporate investments in Lagos State and Northern Nigeria, but none in the South East as yet. He said with such ambitious vision as Mbah’s backed with the right policies and legislations, Denmark would be willing to invest in Enugu State to serve the region.

To Monsignor Obiora Ike, a highly respected clergy and professor of Ethics and Intercultural Studies at Godfrey Okoye University, Peter Mbah is not a politician, but a technocrat.

“He has never aspired to be a politician. People are begging him, please come and join in building up our state. Don’t do all the good things there in Lagos. So, he is not a politician. This man is a scholar, a titan, and an entrepreneur. He is what we call a technocrat. At a certain time in the life of a nation, we need technocrats, people who come to salvage and add value”, he reassured the local and community.

There comes a time when a people must ask themselves, “What shall we do to ignite an economic revolution and build a more prosperous democracy for our children and ourselves?” Luckily for Ndi Enugu, the much desired future is here for the taking - through the ballot box come March 2023.

• Anichukwu is Deputy Director, Mainstream Media, Enugu State PDP Campaign Council

Printed and Published in Lagos by THISDAY Newspapers Limited. Lagos: 35 Creek Road, Apapa, Lagos. Abuja: Plot 1, Sector Centre B, Jabi Business District, Solomon Lar Way, Jabi North East, Abuja .

Printed and Published in Lagos

by Leaders & Company Limited . Lagos: 35 Creek Road, Apapa, Lagos. Abuja: Plot 1, Sector Centre Jabi Business District, Solomon LarTel: Way, Jabi North East, Abuja .

All Correspondence to POBox 54749, Ikoyi, Lagos.

EMAIL: editor@thisdaylive.com, info@thisdaylive.com.

TELEPHONE Lagos: 0802B,2924721-2, 08022924485.

Abuja: 08155555292, 08155555929 All Correspondence to POBox 54749, Ikoyi, editor@thisdaylive.com, 0802 2924721-2, 08022924485.

Abuja: Tel: 08076290487, 08076290488 24/7 ADVERTISING HOTLagos.

LINES:EMAIL: 0811 181 3085 0811 181 3086, 0811 181info@thisdaylive.com.

3087, 0811 181 3088, 0811TELEPHONE 181 3089, 0811Lagos: 181 3090.

ENQUIRIES & BOOKING: adsbooking@thisdaylive.com