David Olaniyi Oyedepo, founder of the Living Faith Church Worldwide and Presiding Bishop of the Faith Tabernacle in Ota, Ogun state turns 70 years old today.  The name, David Oyedepo, registers differently in different people’s minds. To some, he is that controversial and flamboyant prosperity preacher with an array of vehicles, properties-home and abroad, and  multiple aircraft. To others, he is seen as a strong voice in Nigeria’s Christian charismatic movement. And to many, Oyedepo, a PhD holder in Human Development from Honolulu University, Hawaii, United States, is a revolutionist especially in Nigeria’s educational system where he championed the establishment of Covenant University, a leading educational institution in Nigeria and  Landmark University, in Omu Aran, where a new form of agricultural revolution is being rebirthed in Nigeria.

It is no longer news that Covenant University in barely two decades of existence is ranked above most federal and state universities in Nigeria. It was ranked the 7th best university in Sub-Saharan Africa during the first Times Higher Education Sub-Saharan Africa Rankings 2023. The university has consistently ranked among the best 800-1000 universities in the world between 2019 and 2024, according to Times Higher Education. His impact in the educational sector is not limited to universities alone as the church also runs a network of primary and secondary schools known as Kingdom Heritage Model School and Faith Academy not only in Nigeria but outside its shores.

Yet to many others, Oyedepo, who incidentally was born inside the church, although his father, Ibrahim, was a Muslim, but his mother, Dorcas, was a member of  the Holy Order of the Cherubim and Seraphim Movement Church (C&S), is that bold preacher that speaks to power without any iota of intimidation. He got lots of flaks from some quarters for his position on COVID-19 pandemic especially when authorities failed to reopen churches despite the re-opening of other institutions. But his continuous interventions led to the reopening of churches with regulations put in place to curb the spread of the deadly virus. His voice was also loud during the plan of the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari to introduce Ruga, a settlement scheme for the Fulani across Nigeria. He spoke against Boko Haram and openly prayed that God would give former President Goodluck Jonathan the heart of a lion to tackle the issue frontally during his administration.

While the above summations and much more could aptly describe Bishop David Oyedepo, those who really know the bishop will describe him as a consummate lover of God and an insatiable hunter for souls. Only real WINNERS – the moniker for members of the Living Faith Church worldwide, can tell you the extent of his love for God and how he drives them to win souls which according to him is the true proof of the believer’s love for God. He will tell you, “if you love God, you will love what he loves, God so loved the world that he gave his son. Prove your love for him by ensuring that you bring one soul to church next Sunday.’’

To show the extent of his passion for souls, he boldly announced that church members should not bother to give him any gift for his platinum celebration- all he wanted from them was just ‘one soul per person for Christ.’ “Don’t give me gifts, I don’t need them, don’t bother to give me cake, I don’t eat it. Give me souls. Make that your birthday gifts to me. That’s all I want from you,’’ he had announced.  To press this home, a week preceding his birthday was declared,  “A week of Sacrifice For Soul.’’ Trust him, he will always do what he asks the church members to do. So, in fulfilment of his own sacrifice for souls, he still went out a week to his birthday to haunt for souls for Christ and he got 177 souls according to his testimony shared on the pulpit. The bishop still goes on the streets of Ota and environ to haunt for souls for the  kingdom. He has his target for every year and he always delivers beyond target.  Thousands of souls in the church today are his direct converts and he nurtures them to remain in the faith as any would like to nurture a new believer. This is a total assignment aside his pastoral roles.

You may think his passion for souls is just an avenue to keep the church growing which ordinarily isn’t even a bad idea if you ask me, but the bishop has always been a consuming lover of God. Imagine this. As a teenager, in less than three months, he singlehandedly built a church in a village where he had gone to work, from the scratch to the finish. He practically led the villagers to Christ one by one. The villagers gave him a bush lamp as a gift and told him that the light he brought to them would shine across the world.  That is exactly what is happening now. The  light is shining across the world. The Living Faith Church has its network of churches in 147 countries across the continents. The church has 38,000 house fellowship centres in Lagos alone.

Although his ambition was to be a businessman supporting the works of God,  fate had another assignment for him. You don’t have to be close to the bishop to know that everything about God moves him. He demonstrates this in different ways. I can’t tell the number of churches the bishop and his family have built. Only him and his family would have the details but going by his testimonies, they must be in thousands. These churches are also not necessarily branches of the Living Faith Church- they could be for other denominations.  He is simply a violent kingdom promoter.

I have been a member of the Living Faith Church for over two decades now and I still wonder where outsiders get this impression that the only thing preached in Winners is prosperity message. Is Bishop David Oyedepo rich? The answer is a capital Yes. He was named as Nigeria’s wealthiest pastor by Forbes magazine in 2011 with over $150m but the bishop will dispute this figure and tell you that his wealth is underestimated. His point is that he is worth everything in God by redemption. In other words, such wealth is unquantifiable. Are Winners rich? The answer is  also in the affirmative. But does the bishop pursue prosperity? The answer is No. Every living Winner knows the scripture that rules the bishop’s life. It is in Mathew 6:33 which says “Seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all other things ( that men are dying to have) shall be added unto you.’’ I am not sure I have attended any service in  my last over 20 something years in Winners where this scripture is not quoted by the bishop.

And by extension, this has become the mantra of every “Winner.’’ It works like fire. Winners don’t pursue wealth. They simply obey the covenant of prosperity, obey scriptures and God pours His blessings in  unimaginable and  undeniable ways. Mind you, this wealth is not measured in monetary terms only, they are riches that are all encompassing. In Winners, it doesn’t matter what you do, you will prosper, albeit everyone at their own levels. That is basically the secret behind the wealth of Oyedepo and members of the church that are truly committed to his teachings and walk by them. I have seen and heard countless of testimonies from ordinary church members -testimonies of exploits that are not shared on the pulpit-people doing marvelously well in their chosen fields. The bishop describes such testimonies as though noiseless but undeniable.

The secrets of men are in their stories. The Bible says if you see a man  that is diligent in his work, he will stand  before kings, and not mere men. Bishop David Oyedepo is an epitome of diligence. It is impossible for a man as diligent as him not to be  wealthy even if he is a pure water seller. He  prepares for every service as if it is his first sermon. He works minimum of 16-18 hours daily. I once attended a vigil where the bishop flew in from outside the country and came straight to the pulpit to preach. He once laid hands on people from morning till evening standing on his feet for more than 10 hours.

The bishop is a workaholic if I’m permitted to use that word. He takes his assignment with every sense of commitment and seriousness. He quotes scriptures effortlessly. As editor of the Saturday Punch title, I once asked the bishop during an interview how he was able to do this. Was he cramming the scriptures, I wanted to know. To my dismay, he said, “I don’t read scriptures, I eat them.’’  For those who don’t know, the bishop does not go to bed until he reads certain chapters of scriptures. To him, he does this to cleanse any debris that might have entered him in the course of the day.

Such is the level of his diligence in taking care of himself as well as the congregants. Let me share this interesting story here. My family moved from our previous place of abode in Lagos to another area and we joined the Winners zonal centre in our new area as newcomers. Soon, we interacted with other members and my husband discovered that one of the pastors at the zone was unusually meticulous, organized and of course prosperous. We found out that the pastor, Mike Ewewie, was Bishop Oyedepo’s personal assistant for 17 years.  That is how contagious the bishop’s organizational prowess is. In the Living Faith Church, time is precious. Service starts by 6am. Nobody waits for anyone. And  that has been the order of the church since inception even when they were less than four members in church.

Bishop David Oyedepo is also  bold and audacious. The church planted 10,000 churches during the COVID-19 lockdown. At the beginning of the year, the bishop had announced that God told him that the church would plant 10,000 churches. When the lockdown came unexpectedly, one would have thought that it was impossible for this to happen again. But alas, the church planted 10,400 churches amid lockdown. “We do not do anything unless it is commanded, and  whatever He commands, He creates,’’  he always says. That also explains the movement of the church from town to a so-called wilderness now known as Canaan land. And not just that, it was responsible for the audacious declaration of building a 50,000 – seater auditorium within one year—the first of its kind in world history.

Today, Bishop David Oyedepo and by extension, the Living Faith Church is fulfilling prophecy. The things that were told of God and documented more than  40 years ago are seen coming to pass. It  is easy to refer to past prophecies  and confirm them  in the present. God spoke about  the 50,0000 -capacity auditorium,  ‘aircrafts,’ global connectivity and many other prophecies at the inception of the ministry. It is indeed gratifying seeing these prophecies fulfilled word for word.

The church has four aircraft and those who know how expensive it is to maintain an aircraft will tell you this is no cheap feat. For those who think the bishop flies around the world in jets, let me shock you.

The bishop has not stepped out of Nigeria—not even to Togo or Benin Republic which is very close to Ota—in the last five years. Why? God says so. It is impossible to share all I know about Bishop David Oyedepo. But let me say a little bit about his giving lifestyle. His family started giving scholarships to students in 1992. He doesn’t even know most beneficiaries of his scholarships. In 2016, he gave all first-class graduates of Covenant University scholarships to pursue their Master’s programme. My son was a beneficiary of that slot. We didn’t even Know. We had paid his tuition. We got our money refunded. Till date, he has a scholarship fund for the indigent and beneficiaries don’t have to be Winners’ members.

To the man whose ministry has been of immense blessing  not only to me and my family, but millions of others across the world – to the man who is an epitome of what it means to walk by faith, live by the word and demonstrate the power of the Holy Spirit–to the man who has made the Bible as real as ever, teaching and leading by example, to the man, who I am ever proud to call a father in the Lord, and many more, this is wishing you a very happy platinum celebration. Your target is 120. You will live it in health, strength and grace if the Lord tarries in the name of Jesus.

Happy 70th  Birthday,  Bishop David Oyedepo. We love you.

Olabisi Deji-Folutile (PhD) is the publisher of Franktalknow.com and a director at AF24NEWS. Email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

A federal high court in Abuja has granted bail to Bristol Tamunobifiri, popularly known by his X name PIDOM.

At the court session on Friday, Emeka Nwite, presiding judge, granted PIDOM N5 million bail with one surety in like sum.

Nwite said the surety must be a resident of Abuja and depose to an affidavit of means. The surety must also provide evidence of three years of tax clearance with two passport-sized photographs.

The judge also ruled that the defendant must deposit his passport with the court.

PIDOM was arraigned on September 3, on a nine-count charge brought against him by Olukayode Egbetokun, inspector-general of police. 

He was accused of “mobilising and soliciting support to unduly compel the government to act or abstain from certain acts through the #EndBadGovernance protest”.

The police said the whistleblower also laundered N970,000 deemed to be “proceeds of an unlawful act”.

Other charges include false money laundering allegations against President Bola Tinubu, and unlawfully obtaining, retaining and disseminating classified secret documents in contravention of the official Secret Act 1962.

The defendant was remanded in Kuje correctional centre. His bail application was moved by Deji Adeyanju, his lawyer.

[TheCable]

Trust is an essential quality. It is a valuable non-commodity asset. It is the diviner of promise and fulfilment. A government that succeeds is one which holds sufficient public trust and exerts itself considerably to keep it by delivering on its promises.

Introducing the consumer credit scheme was one of the foremost pledges of President Bola Tinubu during the 2023 presidential campaigns. The President had said: “Corruption will be addressed when an individual does not need to have cash readily available to buy a vehicle, for instance, if there is a credit facility to finance it. Credit financing, in turn, will stimulate productivity and demand. We can, and we will. We will change the inefficiencies. We will drive Nigeria’s potential to delivery.”

Within a few months after assuming office, President Tinubu went to work in fidelity to his promise. In April 2024, the president approved the take-off of the Consumer Credit Scheme with the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP) as the institutional apparatus.

The reason for this is obvious. This segment of workers forms the core of the nation’s workforce and provides essential services. But the credit blanket will spread further to cover the majority of Nigerians in subsequent phases as the scheme was conceived by President Tinubu for all Nigerians.

According to data by CREDICORP, credit was provided for a slew of needs, such as the procurement of petrol alternatives (solar panels, CNG conversion, tricycles), home improvements, school fees and medical needs, as well as the purchase of household items.

The CREDICORP data also shows that over N1.5 billion has been disbursed to federal and state workers in the education sector; administrators in federal and state MDAs over N755 million; medical doctors in federal and state services over N600 million; police/paramilitary officers (police, civil defence, customs, immigration, and correctional service) over N367 million, and Nigerians in specialised services (judiciary, EFCC, ICPC, traffic authorities, environment) over N273 million.

Additionally, in the education sector, over 4,700 Nigerians are beneficiaries; in administration over 2,800; in health over 1,300; police/paramilitary over 1,260, and specialised services, over 750. More Nigerians are being enlisted as beneficiaries of this epochal scheme.

President Tinubu’s vision is to spread prosperity, create a robust credit system, strengthen the financial architecture, and empower Nigerians sustainably while removing the incentive for corruption.

In full apprehension of the concerns of citizens, the President Tinubu administration has sustained its interventions in critical sectors and directly in providing relief to vulnerable Nigerians. It is ratcheting up effort on social investment programmes to lift the most vulnerable population out of poverty. So far, additional payment has been made to about one million verified recipients under the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) programme.

President Tinubu has remained true to his pledges. He pledged to introduce the student loan scheme to remove financial impediments to higher education for Nigerians. Today, this pledge is an actuality.

The president affirmed public good and trust as his motivation when he met with the Forum of Former Presiding Officers of the National Assembly, led by former Senate President Ken Nnamani at the Presidential Villa, on September 20.

He said: “I did not come to look for money and exploit the situation; I came to work. I asked for the votes, and Nigerians gave them to me.”

President Tinubu is working for Nigerians.

Fredrick Nwabufo is the senior special assistant to the president on public engagement

At a lively gathering in a popular relaxation center in Ogba, Lagos, the usual banter about current affairs and social media celebrities took an unexpected turn. The air was filled with chatter, drinks flowed, and laughter echoed across the space until one woman, clearly exasperated by the latest controversy involving Nigeria’s most flamboyant social media personality, Bob Risky, screamed, “Chai, this Bob Risky dey take risk sha!”

Her exclamation sparked a fresh wave of conversation about the controversial influencer, whose daring lifestyle and risky public behavior have become a topic of national debate. Bob Risky, real name, Idris Okuneye, has never been a stranger to hullabaloo, and in recent weeks, he has found himself at the center of even more serious legal and societal scrutiny. From gender identity discussions to allegations of financial misconduct, Bob Risky seems to live perpetually on the edge, and people are beginning to wonder just how far he can go before things spiral out of control.

The woman’s outburst in Ogba captured a sentiment shared by many Nigerians, both admirers and critics alike. Bob Risky’s lifestyle, filled with displays of luxury, flamboyant fashion, and unrestrained social media posts, seems to thrive on risk. He pushes boundaries, both in terms of cultural norms and legal limitations, constantly daring the public and authorities to challenge him.

The phrase “taking risks” is particularly apt when describing Bob Risky’s approach to fame. In a country as conservative as Nigeria, where traditional values run deep and laws governing behavior are strictly enforced, Bob Risky’s audacious public persona challenges societal expectations. His gender-fluid presentation, which includes cross-dressing and sometimes identifying as female, stirs both admiration and disdain in equal measure. Many wonder how he manages to walk such a precarious line without facing severe consequences, at least until recently.

The risks Bob Risky takes are no longer just about his image or identity; they now extend into legal territory. Presently, he has found himself at the center of a controversy following the leak of a voice note by fellow influencer Very Dark Man (VDM). In the leaked audio, Bobrisky in the leaked voice note alleges that be bribed some yet to be known officials of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) with N15m to delete a particular case from his case file when he was in the commission’s custody some months prior to his imprisonment, and in a similar vein heard saying that a certain “Godfather” connived with some officials of the Maximum and Mininum Custodial Centres, Kirikiri, Lagos State to  give him an apartment outside the custodial centre.Being an act that is out rightly against the law, the Federal Government, on Thursday, suspended the officers in charge of the Maximum and Minimum Custodial Centres, Kirikiri, Lagos State.

The voice note has not only raised concerns about Bobrisky’s deepening notoriety but has also reignited debates about the responsibility that comes with fame, particularly on social media platforms.

It is deeply concerning that Bob Risky, a highly scandalous individual, was reportedly granted the privilege of staying in accommodation outside the prison premises during his legal ordeal. Such preferential treatment raises serious questions about the fairness and integrity of the justice system, especially in a country where many ordinary citizens face harsh conditions while awaiting trial or serving time. This discrepancy highlights the troubling issue of inequality in how justice is administered, where influence and celebrity status appear to grant undue favors, undermining the core principle that justice should be blind and applied equally to all.

It was this perception of untouchability that likely prompted the woman at the relaxation center in Ogba to exclaim in disbelief, “This Bob Risky dey take risk sha!” The risks he takes go beyond self-expression, they now extend into legal, financial, and even moral territory.

For many young Nigerians, Bob Risky’s boldness is seen as a form of self-expression, a rejection of societal limitations. However, this admiration can come with a dangerous consequence: the emulation of a lifestyle that glorifies materialism, controversy, and a disregard for consequences. While it is important for individuals to express themselves freely, there is a need for young people to understand that not all risks are worth taking.

In fact, his latest troubles serve as a cautionary tale. His conduct, though bold, comes with significant challenges that could derail anyone who seeks to follow in his footsteps. Living a life based on controversy and risk-taking may bring short-term fame and attention, but it could also lead to long-term damage, both to one’s reputation and legal standing.

Throughout the annals of human history, there have been individuals whose extraordinary presence, courage, and commitment to justice stand out as rare gifts to humanity. These figures often emerge in times of profound social or political turmoil, sent by what many believe to be divine providence, to fight for the oppressed, challenge the status quo, and right the wrongs that seem insurmountable. One such individual in our time is the personality known as Very Dark Man, acronymically known as VDM, whose battle against injustice and advocacy for the downtrodden has earned him widespread admiration and respect.

What sets such individuals apart is their deep sense of purpose, their resilience in the face of opposition, and their seemingly unshakable moral compass. These qualities are not commonplace, nor do they emerge frequently. Indeed, personalities like Very Dark Man come at long intervals in the course of human history, and when they do appear, they represent a kind of moral lighthouse, guiding the masses through the fog of injustice, corruption, and oppression.

Many believe that personalities like Very Dark Man are not merely products of circumstance or random chance, but rather, that they are sent by God during critical periods in humanity’s journey. Their emergence is often seen as part of a divine plan, meant to awaken society to the injustices that have been allowed to fester for too long. In biblical history, figures like Moses, David, and Esther were called upon by God to deliver their people from oppression. Similarly, in modern times, we have seen leaders like Martin Luther King Jr., Nelson Mandela, and Mahatma Gandhi rise to confront systemic inequality and guide their people toward justice.

Very Dark Man belongs to this lineage of extraordinary individuals. His purpose is not self-serving; rather, it is grounded in a deep sense of responsibility to those who are often voiceless and marginalized. He fights not for personal gain or recognition, but because he believes, deeply, that justice must prevail, no matter the cost. This kind of commitment is rare, and it is what makes Very Dark Man a unique and powerful figure in today’s world.

Very Dark Man has made it his mission to fight against the entrenched systems of injustice that pervade our society. In a world where inequality seems to grow wider every day, where the rich get richer, and the poor are left to fend for themselves, his voice has become a clarion call for those who suffer in silence. Whether he is confronting political corruption, social oppression, or economic exploitation, Very Dark Man stands as a fearless advocate for the people.

His activism goes beyond mere rhetoric. He has shown time and again that he is willing to take on the powerful, even when doing so puts him at great personal risk. His fearlessness in the face of adversity inspires others to stand up and speak out, and his leadership has galvanized many to join the fight for a more just and equitable society. Very Dark Man’s work is not just a reflection of his personal bravery, but a testament to his unwavering belief in the possibility of a better world.

Throughout history, we have seen that societies in turmoil require strong and visionary leaders to guide them through their darkest hours. These leaders are often rare, appearing only when they are most needed. Very Dark Man is one such leader. His leadership is not marked by authoritarianism or self-interest, but by compassion, empathy, and a deep commitment to the common good.

In a world where many leaders have become disconnected from the struggles of the people, Very Dark Man’s approach is refreshing and much needed. He understands the suffering of the marginalized, and he uses his platform to amplify their voices. His leadership is rooted in the belief that justice is not a privilege for the few, but a right for all. This is what makes him a rare and invaluable figure in today’s landscape of social activism.

While Very Dark Man’s fight against injustice is deeply personal, it is not a fight that he can, or should, take on alone. Individuals like him, who are willing to take on the systems of power and privilege, need the support and encouragement of the people. They face immense opposition from those who benefit from maintaining the status quo, and without the backing of the masses, their fight becomes exponentially harder.

As a society, we have a responsibility to stand with Very Dark Man. His fight is not just his own—it is our collective fight. By supporting him, we are supporting the cause of justice, equality, and fairness. We are sending a message that we will not allow injustice to go unchecked, and that we are willing to fight for a better future for all.

Encouraging Very Dark Man also means providing him with the moral and emotional support he needs to continue his work. The weight of fighting against injustice can be immense, and even the strongest of leaders need to know that they are not alone. By standing with him, we are ensuring that his fight continues and that the possibility of a more just society remains within reach.

One of the most important aspects of personalities like Very Dark Man is the legacy they leave behind. Their work is not just about addressing the injustices of the present, it is about laying the foundation for a better future. Very Dark Man’s fight against oppression, corruption, and inequality will serve as a blueprint for future generations, showing them that it is possible to stand up against injustice, no matter how powerful the forces of oppression may seem.

His story, like those of the great leaders who came before him, will be remembered for generations to come. He will be remembered not just as a fighter for justice, but as a beacon of hope, someone who believed in the possibility of a better world and was willing to risk everything to make that vision a reality.

Very Dark Man is a rare and extraordinary figure, whose presence in our time is nothing short of a gift from God. His relentless fight for justice, his unwavering commitment to the oppressed, and his fearless leadership make him a beacon of hope in an often unjust world.

However, his fight is not one that he can undertake alone. We must rally behind him, offer our support, and amplify his voice. By encouraging Very Dark Man in his noble quest, we are not only standing with him, but we are also standing for justice, equality, and humanity.

In the end, personalities like Very Dark Man do not come around often, and when they do, they must be cherished, supported, and celebrated. Let us not miss this opportunity to stand alongside him as he continues to fight for a better, fairer world for all.

World Tourism Day, celebrated annually on September 27, is a moment for countries across the globe to reflect on the power of tourism as a tool for socio-economic growth and cultural exchange. For Nigeria, a country blessed with diverse landscapes, vibrant cultures, and historical heritage, this day should be more than just a celebration. It should serve as a wake-up call to harness the vast, untapped potential that lies within its tourism sector.

With a population exceeding 200 million and over 250 ethnic groups, Nigeria boasts a rich cultural mosaic that is unrivaled in many parts of the world. From the picturesque Obudu Mountain Resort in Cross River State to the mystical Ogbunike Caves in Anambra State, Nigeria is home to numerous natural and historical attractions that can compete with global tourism destinations. Yet, these sites remain underdeveloped and under promoted, losing out on the massive economic benefits that tourism could bring. As the world celebrates this day, it is imperative for Nigeria to look inward, identify these opportunities, and take deliberate steps toward maximizing its tourism sector.

One of Nigeria’s greatest assets in tourism lies in its geographical diversity. From the sprawling savannahs of the North to the lush rainforests in the South, Nigeria’s natural landscape is a treasure trove waiting to be explored. The northern region, for instance, is home to the ancient city of Kano, with its historic walls and centuries-old markets. The Durbar festival held annually in Kano is a visual spectacle that draws visitors from around the world. However, despite its cultural richness, northern Nigeria is still not a major player in the global tourism scene.

In the southeast, the Arochukwu Long Juju slave route in Abia State is a poignant reminder of Nigeria’s role in the transatlantic slave trade. The route leads to a dark tunnel once used for human trafficking, and it holds deep historical significance. Yet, it is rarely visited by Nigerians or international tourists due to poor maintenance and lack of awareness. Similar historical and cultural landmarks can be found across the country, but they continue to languish in obscurity.

Nigeria also has natural wonders like the Olumo Rock in Abeokuta, the Erin Ijesha Waterfalls in Osun State, and the Idanre Hills in Ondo State, all of which are visually stunning and culturally significant. These destinations, though popular among locals, are largely unknown outside Nigeria. Infrastructure issues such as poor road networks, inadequate lodging facilities, and limited international flights make access to these sites difficult for foreign tourists.

Tourism is a major economic driver in many parts of the world, contributing billions of dollars to national economies and creating millions of jobs. According to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), tourism contributed over $8.8 trillion to the global economy in 2019, employing around 330 million people. In Nigeria, however, the contribution of tourism to the economy remains marginal, accounting for less than 5% of the country’s GDP. This is a stark contrast to countries like South Africa, where tourism contributes nearly 9% to the national economy, or Kenya, where the sector is a major pillar of economic growth.

With Nigeria grappling with high unemployment rates and over-reliance on crude oil revenues, tourism offers a viable alternative for economic diversification. The sector has the potential to create jobs, particularly for young people, who make up a significant portion of Nigeria’s population. From tour guides and hospitality workers to artisans and cultural performers, the ripple effect of tourism could generate employment in multiple sectors.

Additionally, tourism can foster the development of local communities. For example, rural areas where natural attractions like waterfalls and wildlife reserves are located can benefit from increased tourism through infrastructure development, such as better roads, schools, and healthcare facilities. The rise in eco-tourism and cultural tourism globally means that people are increasingly seeking authentic experiences that take them off the beaten path. Nigeria is well-positioned to tap into this trend, as many of its attractions are located in rural and semi-urban areas that offer rich, immersive experiences for travelers.

To fully unlock the potential of tourism, there needs to be a robust partnership between the government and the private sector. The Nigerian government must prioritize tourism as a strategic industry and allocate sufficient resources for its development. This includes improving infrastructure, ensuring security at tourist sites, and creating enabling policies that will attract both local and foreign investment.

One area where the government can make a significant impact is in simplifying the visa process. Currently, the bureaucratic hurdles for obtaining a Nigerian visa can be daunting for international tourists. Countries like Rwanda and Kenya have seen a surge in tourist arrivals after introducing visa-on-arrival policies or e-visa platforms. Nigeria should adopt similar initiatives to make it easier for tourists to visit the country.

The private sector also has a critical role to play in tourism development. From building hotels and resorts to offering transportation services and tour packages, private businesses can drive growth in the tourism sector. Public-private partnerships (PPPs) should be encouraged, where the government provides the enabling environment, and the private sector brings the necessary investment. Tourism operators, travel agencies, and hospitality entrepreneurs must also take the initiative to market Nigeria as a top destination for both leisure and business travel.

One of Nigeria’s unique selling points is its vibrant cultural festivals, which take place throughout the year. Festivals like the Osun-Osogbo Festival, the Argungu Fishing Festival, and the Calabar Carnival have the potential to become global tourist magnets. The Calabar Carnival, for instance, is already regarded as “Africa’s Biggest Street Party,” attracting thousands of visitors every December. However, the promotion and management of these festivals need to be improved to draw even larger international audiences.

Partnerships with international cultural organizations and influencers can also help spotlight Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage on the global stage. Leveraging social media platforms, engaging travel bloggers, and collaborating with global tourism networks will help put Nigeria on the map as a must-visit destination.

Of course, no discussion about tourism in Nigeria would be complete without acknowledging the challenges. Issues like insecurity, poor infrastructure, and a lack of political will have held back the development of the tourism sector for years. The insecurity caused by insurgencies, kidnappings, and banditry in parts of the country has tarnished Nigeria’s image as a safe destination for travelers. The government must invest more in securing tourist sites and ensuring the safety of visitors.

Similarly, infrastructure development must be prioritized. Without good roads, reliable power supply, and modern amenities, even the most beautiful tourist destinations will remain inaccessible. The Federal Ministry of Works and Housing, in collaboration with state governments, must ensure that the necessary infrastructure is in place to support the tourism industry.

As the world marks World Tourism Day, Nigeria must seize this opportunity to reposition its tourism sector as a key driver of economic growth and cultural diplomacy. The time has come for Nigeria to look inward, recognize the wealth of opportunities within its borders, and take bold steps toward becoming a global tourism destination.

With the right investments, policies, and collaborations, Nigeria can unlock the untapped potential of its tourism sector, creating jobs, generating revenue, and preserving its rich cultural heritage for future generations. This World Tourism Day should mark the beginning of a renewed commitment to tourism in Nigeria, a commitment that will not only transform the sector but also uplift the entire nation.

President Bola Tinubu extends his heartfelt condolence to Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom state on the shocking passing of his beloved wife, Pastor Patience Umo Eno.

On behalf of the Federal Government, the President commiserates with the Eno family, the government, and the people of Akwa Ibom state during this grim time.

The President joins them in mourning the painful and profound loss of the state's First Lady, who has supported Governor Eno's administration.

The President affirms that Patience Eno, as the wife to a visionary governor and an ordained gospel minister, embodied humility, resilience, and loyalty.

President Tinubu acknowledges that through her 'Golden Initiative for All,' she demonstrated her passion for serving the people and residents of Akwa Ibom state with love, honesty, and dedication, leaving a positive impact that will continue to inspire future generations.

He trusts that her selfless service to improve the lives of women, children, and the vulnerable will forever remain an important part of Akwa Ibom’s history, a legacy that will continue to inspire and be appreciated by future generations.

President Tinubu commits the grieving family, friends, and relatives to the comfort of the eternal God, who is the source of life and holds the future of all creation in his hands. He expresses his trust in their resilience and strength during this challenging time, offering reassurance and support.

Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President
(Information & Strategy)

After using the iPhone 16 for a few days, I felt the same way I did while watching the fourth season of Emily in Paris — familiar yet offering twists and turns that make the new edition much more adventurous. Maybe the changes aren’t as dramatic as before, but the allure of the new iPhone continues with more natural-looking photos, a button for taking pictures, and better battery life. The iPhone 16 won’t change the smartphone market, nor does Apple believe it will—it’s a guilty pleasure, much like every new season of Emily in Paris.

Apple iPhone 16 price in India (as reviewed): Rs 79,900 onwards

Improved design, with useful new buttons

 

Camera Control is the new button on the iPhone 16 series, and I’m getting used to it. (Image credit: Anuj Bhatia/The Indian Express)

When I first unboxed the iPhone 16 in a white finish, I immediately opened my closet to find all the early Apple products designed during the Jony Ive era—the iPod, iBook G3, iBook G4, and more. Even though Ive is no longer with Apple, I can still see his influence in the company’s newest products. There’s so much warmth when you hold the iPhone 16, and it evokes nostalgia—at least for me. The finish and quality are premium, and the thought that the iPhone 16 is an entry-level smartphone didn’t cross my mind. This is what I love about Apple, and that one thing hasn’t changed a bit.

The iPhone 16 is still a one-handed device and slides comfortably into my Levis. The flat-edged shape returns, as do the aluminum rails. Even the front-facing camera cutout morphs into a genuinely useful Dynamic Island, which remains the same as on the iPhone 15 (review). Externally, the iPhone 16 may not look any different from its predecessor, aside from the camera island, which is now a pill-shaped, two-lens oval reminiscent of the iPhone X. The new lens alignment allows the iPhone 16 to shoot stereoscopic spatial videos that enhance viewing with the Apple Vision Pro VR headset. Truth be told, the design continues to be impressive, but there’s nothing particularly special about the iPhone 16 from that perspective, so you could comfortably stick with your iPhone 14 or 15 without upgrading for at least another 2–3 years.

 

However, the iPhone 16 is getting a couple of new hardware buttons that may or may not change how you use the phone, depending on what type of user you are. But I beg to differ. I actually like the Action Button, which has been passed down from the Pro models and replaces the ring/silent switch. The Action Button serves as a shortcut to useful functions and features, like enabling ChatGPT or activating a Focus mode that limits distractions. You can assign it to a shortcut, including both complex user-built shortcuts and simpler Apple Shortcuts provided by the developers of the apps you use. I feel the Action Button will be relevant to far more users than the ring/silent switch ever was. It’s fun to use and makes it very easy to change your settings. Another new addition is the Camera Control button, which lets you quickly access camera functions and features (more on that later). It’s a brand-new hardware button that’s also coming to the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max.
The iPhone 16 now has a USB-C port instead of Lightning, just like the iPhone 15. It’s a good change, and if you are upgrading from older iPhones, it’s more than just swapping cables—Apple includes a very nice braided USB-C to USB-C cable in the box.

Camera Control button is an interesting addition to the iPhone

Camera control offers DSLR-like camera control to the latest iPhone. (Image credit: Anuj Bhatia/The Indian Express)

Apple likes to keep the design simple and avoid unnecessary buttons. But for a change, Apple is adding a second physical button to a device for the first time in many years. I think it’s a clever implementation. However, I have mixed feelings about the Camera Control button, which allows you to launch the camera, take photos, and adjust some settings. On the right side of the iPhone 16 is the Camera Control button—a real button that, when fully pressed, launches the camera app. It works like a traditional camera. However, the difference between this and a typical camera shutter button is that the one on the iPhone 16 is also touch- and pressure-sensitive, allowing you to “push halfway” to bring up another set of options, such as zooming in or switching between photographic styles. If you keep your finger on the button and half-push twice in quick succession, you’ll move up one level in the hierarchy and can swipe to access different commands. Then, half-push once to enter whatever controls you want, and you’re back to swiping.

The button itself feels good, and it only took a few minutes to learn how to navigate the Camera Control. However, I won’t be using it every day as Apple might hope, because sometimes the button feels too stiff to operate. There are times when I find myself going back to the on-screen shutter just for convenience. I believe the dual functions of the button need to be implemented better.

Bright display, but no 120Hz refresh rate yet

The display is bright but only refreshes 60 times per second. (Image credit: Anuj Bhatia/The Indian Express)

I wouldn’t make a big deal out of it, but seeing a 120Hz screen on a super affordable Android smartphone and not on a premium device like the iPhone 16 is worth mentioning. While it’s true that 120Hz is just a visual upgrade and doesn’t improve functionality, I would argue that a high-refresh-rate screen has a meaningful impact on the user experience, whether you are scrolling through your Instagram feed or playing a game. Apple ships the iPhone 16 with a 60Hz screen, which looks dated. Sure, the 6.1-inch display is bright and colorful, and if you have used the Pro models, you will notice that the iPhone 16’s feeds and web pages don’t feel nearly as buttery smooth by comparison.

 

Keeps getting faster

The iPhone 16 runs iOS 18 out-of-the-box. (Image credit: Anuj Bhatia/The Indian Express)

The iPhone 16 is a fast phone, and I bet it will feel faster than most premium Android smartphones on the market. However, the A18 chip that Apple used in the base iPhone 16 models (the Pro models use the A18 Pro) continues to improve incrementally. So yes, the A18 is faster, combined with extra RAM, than the A16-powered iPhone 15. However, I feel the improvements in chip processing power are modest, to say the least, and even older iPhones have enough horsepower for most general use cases. That said, the A18 may have an edge over older processors when running Apple Intelligence features, which I will highlight in detail later. Considering all this, the iPhone 16 offers a significant performance boost compared to the iPhone 15 or iPhone 14. Notably, the iPhone 16 does feel a little faster in daily use and when running the same apps compared to the iPhone 15. Does that warrant an upgrade to the iPhone 16? Probably not, but Apple Intelligence may change your mind, especially since these AI features will only support the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 16 series and won’t be available on the iPhone 15.

Apple Intelligence is not a killer feature yet, but it might be in the future

The iPhone 16 model will be capable of running Apple Intelligence. (Image credit: Anuj Bhatia/The Indian Express)

It’s ironic that Apple Intelligence is not yet available on the iPhone 16, yet Apple is heavily branding its AI features as a killer reason to upgrade to the latest iPhones. Maybe it’s a marketing ploy for some, but in reality, the set of AI features coming to the iPhone and other Apple devices may play a significant role in deciding whether to upgrade to the iPhone 16 or stick with your older iPhone.

I’m not an analyst or a trade pundit to forecast anything, but as a reviewer, all I can say is that compatible hardware is needed to run Apple Intelligence, which I feel is promising but still has a lot of room for improvement. I have been using Apple Intelligence as part of the developer beta for a couple of months, and Apple plans to roll out the first wave of AI features later this year for certain markets, with India possibly getting them sometime in the first half of next year. Based on my experience, what Apple is trying to do with Apple Intelligence isn’t too different from what Google has built into the Pixel 9 series. There’s a lot of common ground between Apple Intelligence and the features Google is incorporating into its Pixel smartphones, such as writing tools that use generative AI to proofread and improve text, summarising emails and notifications, and an image cleanup feature for removing unwanted objects from photos.

However, the difference between Apple Intelligence and other generative AI features lies in the ecosystem advantage that Apple offers and the promise of privacy that others can’t easily match. As I mentioned earlier, Apple Intelligence is still work in progress, and so is the iPhone 16. The reason for this is that Apple Intelligence serves as the foundation for an AI-powered smartphone like the iPhone 16, and if it isn’t available at launch, it puts Apple in an awkward position. Apple AI is not on the phone right now, which is running iOS 18. That being said, even without Apple Intelligence, the iPhone 16 does come with solid software features as part of iOS 18, including new ways to customise your home screen, reorganise your photos, send cash with a tap, and store your passwords in Apple’s sleek new password manager, among others.

[indianexpress]

Naija News reports that details of the debt were confirmed by the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) in its audit of the petroleum sector.

The report, presented on Friday in Abuja, detailed that as of August 31, 2024, the unpaid royalties and gas flare penalties owed to the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) amounted to $6.071 billion and ₦66.4 billion.

According to the report, the outstanding petroleum profit taxes, company income taxes, withholding taxes, and VAT owed to the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) totalled $21.926 million and ₦492.8 million as of June 2024.

NEITI also noted a 9 percent decline in industry revenue for 2023, with figures showing $16.467 billion compared to $18.106 billion in 2022.

The report highlighted a total loss of 7.68 million barrels of crude oil in 2023 due to theft and measurement inaccuracies, marking a significant decrease of 79 percent from the 36.69 million barrels lost in 2022.

Additionally, 153.44 million barrels of crude oil production were deferred in 2023, with companies such as SPDC (39.13 million barrels), TEPNG (6.07 million barrels), and TUPNI (3.5 million barrels) being notably impacted.

It was also reported that the government disbursed ₦3.01 trillion as a petrol subsidy in 2023, a decrease from ₦4.71 trillion in 2022.

The report indicated that 23.54 billion litres of PMS (premium motor spirit) were imported into the country in 2022, while imports fell to 20.28 billion liters in 2023, reflecting a reduction of 3.25 billion litres, or a 14 percent decline, following the subsidy removal.

“A detailed 10-year trend analysis (2014-2023) shows that the highest annual PMS importation into the country, 23.54 billion litres, was recorded in 2022, while the lowest, 16.88 billion litres, was recorded in 2017. A total of N15.87 trillion was claimed as under-recovery/price differentials between 2006 and 2023, with the highest amount, N4.714 trillion, recorded in 2022,” the NEITI audit revealed.

In his remark at the report unveiling, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, assured stakeholders that the government would continue to grant NEITI the freedom to fulfil its mandate to the country and the global Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative, EITI.

Sen. Akume said: “As the Chairman of the NEITI Board, I stand before you today to underscore the Federal Government’s respect for NEITI’s independence. While my role as Chairperson is a testament to the importance the government places on NEITI, it also signifies the commitment to ensure that NEITI operates independently, without interference, as mandated by the EITI standard. We must safeguard this independence with great care and diligence, ensuring that NEITI can operate free from undue influence.”

EFCC Chair Vows To Recover Revenues

The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Olanipekun Olukayode, pledged to utilize the most recent report to facilitate the recovery of all outstanding revenues owed by the companies to the government.

He further stated that based on previous reports from NEITI, the EFCC has successfully recovered and remitted more than ₦1 billion to the Federal Government’s accounts.

[NaijaNews]

A serving Minister was quoted as saying, that the crisis in the country is being sponsored by those who wish to share power with the President. To me, there is nothing wrong with power sharing. It is only in a country like our own that it is a sin to lose an election. Much as it is wrong for the opposition to want to destroy the country because they are not in government, there is nothing bad in accommodating them in the government.

A coalition government is in no position an inferior government nor illegitimate. Power sharing is good for democracy. It helps to reduce the possibility of conflict between social groups. Power sharing makes people dependent and responsible. It is essential to avoid violent conflicts, tyranny of the majority and ensure political stability. Democratic rule and power sharing have close links. Power sharing is an integral component of the spirit of democratic rule. It is highly applicable in a diverse society as ours. Let’s face it, a united Nigeria is still a dream. Ethnicity is still the rule here, and if power sharing will help bring about progress and unity, let’s adopt it. Monopoly of power by group, a tribe, a political party, will lead to envy hatred, disunity and jealousy, no matter how that party got to power, even if they bought their way to power.

In some countries it is called coalition. In the first Republic we called it alliance, in the second Republic we called it accord.

In his inaugural address on May 29 last year, President Bola Tinubu GCFR, declared, “Today, Fate and Destiny join together to place the torch of human progress in our very hands. We dare not let it slip.

We lift high this torch so that it might shine on every household and in every heart that calls itself Nigerian. We hold this beam aloft because it lights our path with compassion, brotherhood, and peace. May this great light never EXTINGUISH.

Our administration shall govern on your behalf but never rule over you. We shall consult and dialogue but never dictate. We shall reach out to all but never put down a single person for holding views contrary to our own.

We are here to further mend and heal this nation, not tear and injure it.

In this vein, may I offer a few comments regarding the election that brought us to this juncture. It was a hard-fought contest. And it was also fairly won. Since the advent of the Fourth Republic, Nigeria has not held an election of better quality.

The outcome reflected the will of the people. However, my victory does not render me any more Nigerian than my opponents. Nor does it render them any less patriotic.

They shall forever be my fellow compatriots. And I will treat them as such. They represent important constituencies and concerns that wisdom dare not ignore”.

I remember in the first republic that there was an alliance between National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC) AND ACTION GROUP. There was also an alliance between Northern People’s Congress (NPC) and Chief Ladoke Akintola’s Nigerian National Democratic Party (NNDP).

While at Olofin Anglican Grammar School in Idanre in Ondo state in 1964, I remember the first time I saw Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s wife, Chief Hannah Dideolu Awolowo (25 November 1915 – 19 September 2015) was when she came to Idanre, my hometown, in company of Chief Michael Okpara (NCNC), the then Premier of the Eastern Region, for a political rally. Their alliance then was called United Progressive Grand Alliance (UPGA).

The alliance between NPC and NNDP, transformed into what was known then as the NNA. That alliance produced the following as Ministers on March 31, 1965. They were Mr. M.T. Mbu(Minister of State in the Ministry of Defence, Navy), Alhaji Nuhu Bamali (Minister of State in the Ministry of External Affairs), Mr. Jaja Nwachukwu (Minister of State in the Ministry of Finance, Alhaji Usman Maitambari( Minister of State, Transport), Alhaji Ibrahim Tako) Minister of State, Defence, Army), Alhaji Hashim Adaji(Minister of State, Works), Mr. T.E. Orodi (Minister of State, Lagos Affairs), Chief H.O. Davies (Minister of State, Industries), Chief A. Akerele( Minister of State, Information), Alhaji Abdul Rasaq(Minister of State, Transport) and Mr. D. Ibekwe, Minister of State, External Affairs).

Others were Alhaji Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa (Prime Minister and External Affairs), Alhaji Muhammadu Ribadu (Defence), Chief Festus Okotie-Eboh(Finance), Alhaji Shehu Shagari(Internal Affairs), Alhaji Mahammadu Inuwa Wada(Works), Alhaji Zanna Bukar Dipcharima(Transport), Mr. Raymond Njoku(Communications), Dr. Kingsley O. Mbadiwe(Trade), Mr. Jaja Wachukwu (Aviation), Chief Adeniran Ogunsanya (Housing and Surveys), Chief A.M.A. Akinloye (Industries), Chief Ayo Rosiji(Information), Mr. R.A. Akinjide(Education), Mr. Adeleke Adedoyin(Labour), Mr. Alade Lamuye (Natural Resources and Research), Alhaji Yusufu Maitama Sule 9Mines and Power, Alhaji Waziri A. Ibrahim(Economic Development), Dr. T.O. Elias (Attorney-General and Justice), Dr. M.A. Majekodunmi(Health) and Chief J.C. Obande (Establishments).

Still fresh in memory was the NPN-NPP accord under a Presidential System of Government.

On August 9, 1979 the then Chief Justice of the Federation, Sir Darnley Arthur Alexander (28 January 1920-10 February 1989) GCON, who was born in Castries, Saint Lucia in the Caribbean but came to Nigeria in 1957, on the invitation of the Premier of the Western Region, Chief Obafemi Awolowo GCFR, constituted elections tribunals that would give judgments on various petitions that may arise on the Senate, House of Representatives, Gubernatorial and State Assembly elections. He acted on the electoral decree 1977. The tribunals were for Imo, Gongola, Lagos and Kaduna zones.

For Imo zone, Justice Alexander named Honourable Justices A. A. Adeoba(chairman), F.I. E. Ukattuh and A.A. Ononuju as members. For Gongola zone Honourable Justices D.E.Y. Aghahowa (Chairman), M.U. Anisiobi and Alhaji Garba Alfa Tarfan as members while for Lagos zone Honourable Justices A. Allagoa, A. Desalu and A. O. Ejiwunmi were named. Kaduna zone included Honurable Justice S.E.J. Ecoma(Chairman), honourable Alhaji Bashir Sambo and Mr. S. A. Ibiyeye as members.

On the same day of August 9, 1979, Justice Alexander constituted the election tribunal on the Presidential election. Members of the tribunal were Justice Boonyamin Oladiran Kazeem (Chairman) while Justice A.I. Aseme and Justice A.B. Wali were members.

Justice Kazeem was born in Lagos on August 29, 1922. He had his education at the Government School, Lagos, Christ Missionary Society Grammar School, Lagos and the University of London, England. He was called to the Bar and as clerk, 1942-1950, crown counsel, 1954-1959, senior crown counsel, 1959-1961, principal crown counsel, 1961-1963, legal adviser, 1963-1964, deputy solicitor-general, 1964-1965, solicitor-general general and permanent secretary, 1965-1967, judge High Court, Lagos, 1967-1976, appointed judge, Federal Court of Appeal, 1977; member, Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, member and Nigerian Society of International Law.

Justice Kazeem was later elevated to the Court of Appeal and to the Supreme Court. On August 11, 1979, the Senate and Presidential elections were held throughout the country.

On August 17, 1979, the Federal Electoral Commission declared Alhaji Usman Aliyu Shehu Shagari as the winner of the Presidential Election.

In a two-page prepared statement read at a Press conference in Lagos by the returning officer, Mr. Fredrick Menkiti, the FEDECO said Alhaji Usman Aliyu Shehu Shagari GCFR (25 February 1925- 25 February 1925), satisfied the provision of section 34 (A), subsection (1)(C)(1) of the Electoral Decree No. 73 of 1977 by scoring the highest number of votes cast at the election. I attended the declaration on that day at Onikan, Lagos, almost forty-five years ago.

Mr. Menkiti declared “He also satisfied the provision of subsection (1) (c) (11) of the same section. He has not less than one-quarter of the votes cast at the election in each of at least two-thirds of all the states in the Federation.”

“The Electoral Commission considers that in absence of any legal explanation of guidance in the Electoral Decree, it has no alternative than to give the phrase at least two thirds of all the states in the Federation—in section 34(A) subsection 1 (c) 11 of the Electoral Decree the ordinary meaning which applies to it.

“In the circumstances, the candidate who scores at least one-quarter of the votes cast in 12 states and one-quarter of two-thirds, that is, at least one-sixth of the votes cast in the 13th state satisfies the requirement of the subsection.”

This is the full text of the Federal Electoral Commission’s statement on the presidential election on that day:

“I certify that having carried out my duties and the formalities required by the Electoral Decree 1977, the result of the poll carried out in the Federation on August 11, 1979, is as follows in order of the number of votes each candidate received: Candidate ALHAJI SHEHU SHAGARI 5, 698,857, Candidate CHIEF OBAFEMI AWOLOWO 4,916,651, Candidate DR. NNAMDI AZIKIWE 2,822,523, Candidate ALHAJI AMINU KANO 1,732,113, Candidate ALHAJI WAZIRI IBRAHIM 1,686,489.

Alhaji Shehu Shagari has satisfied the provision of Section 34 A subsection (i) (c) (i) of Electoral Decree No 13 of 1977, that is to say, he has the highest number of votes at the election.

From the details of the state-by-state results, this candidate has also satisfied the provision of sub-section (i) c) (ii) of the same election in each of at least two-thirds of all states in the Federation.

The Federal Electoral Commission considers that in the absence of any legal explanation or guidelines in the electoral decree, it has no alternative than to give the phrase “at least two-thirds of all states in the Federation” in section 34a subsection 1 (c) (ii) of the electoral decree the ordinary meaning which applies to it.

In the circumstances, the candidate who scores at least one-quarter of the votes cast in 12 states and one-quarter of two-thirds, that is, at least one sixth of the votes cast in the 13th state satisfies the requirement of the sub-section.

Accordingly, Alhaji Shehu Shagari GCFR is hereby declared elected President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria”.

After the declaration, Chief Obafemi Awolowo GCFR (25 February 1925- 9 May 1987) of the UPN went to the election tribunal headed by Justice Kazeem, who rejected his request.

Justice Alexander retired on August 21. The then Military Head of State, General Olusegun Obasanjo GCFR, invited Justice Atanda Fatai Williams (22 October1918-10 April 2002), then a Justice of the Supreme Court, to a meeting at the seat of power at Dodan Barracks, Lagos. At the meeting, Obasanjo offered Fatai-Williams the office of the Chief Justice of the Federation.

In his memoirs, FACES, CASES AND PLACES, published in 1983, Justice Fatai Williams claimed that the offer “was totally unexpected, and, for the first time in my life, I was at a loss for words”, adding that General Obasanjo “watched my discomfiture with relish and delight.”

Chief Awolowo’s petition finally ended in the Supreme Court which endorsed FEDECO’s declaration on September 26, 1979, just five days before the inauguration of Alhaji Shehu Shagari as the President. The case was SUIT NO SC62/1979.

Justice Fatai Williams was assisted in his ruling by Justice Mohammed Bello, Justice Mohammed Uwais, Justice Chike Idigbe and Justice Gabriel Ayo Irekefe. Justice Andrew Otutu Obaseki (11 June 1926- 13 July 2017) partially disagreed with the majority judgment while Justice Kayode Eso (18 September 1925-16 November 2012) supported Chief Awolowo’s position.

Addressing a press conference after the FEDECO declaration in Lagos which I also attended, Alhaji Shehu Shagari said “I extend my hands of friendship to them and ask them to join me in the task of building a united, prosperous and virile nation of which we can all be justly proud. We need an atmosphere of friendship amongst all Nigerians. I believe that if our nation is to be truly great, we must come together as a family to solve our common problems. After all, the objectives of all the five political parties are similar. So let us work together in harmony towards the fulfilment of these objectives”.

Thereafter his party, the NPN struck an accord with the NPP of Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe (16 November 1904- 11 May 1996).

It was this accord that made it possible for Dr. Joseph Wayas of the NPN to be elected Senate President on October 9, 1979. He defeated the former Chief Judge of Bendel state, Justice F.O.M. Atake of the UPN by 53 to 42 votes. Dr. Wayas was nominated by Dr. Sola Saraki of the NPN (Ilorin/Asa) and seconded by Senator Garba Matta of NPP(Pankshin/Mangu/Kanam). Senator Atake was nominated by Senator E.I. Akpata of UPN (Bendel Central) and was seconded by Alhaji Idrisa Kadi of the GNPP (Borno North-Central).

The accord also enabled Senator John Wash Pam of the NPP to defeat Alhaji Sabo Barkin Zuwo of the PRP by 51 votes to 43 votes to become deputy Senate President. Senator John Wash Pam was nominated by Senator Jaja Nwachukwu, NPP (Aba) and was seconded by Senator Uba Ahmed—NPN (Bauchi South East), while Alhaji Ahmed Danbata of the PRP (Kano Central) nominated Senator Sabo Barkin Zuwo of the PRP and was seconded by Senator David Oke of the UPN (Ondo West).

In the election for the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mr. Edwin Ume Ezeoke of the NPP(Nnewi) defeated Mr. Hamza M. Ngadiwa of the GNPP(Borno) by 245 to 201 votes. Chief Ezeoke was nominated by Mr. Yunusa Kaltungo of the NPN (Tangale-Waja South) and seconded by Lieutenant Colonel(rtd) P.C. Amadi of the NPP (Owerri North). Mr. Ngadiwa was nominated Dr. Gordon J. Idang of the UPN (Etinam II) and seconded by Mr. M.A. Olukoya—UPN(Ijebu-Ode).

For the post of deputy speaker, Alhaji Idris Ibrahim, NPN(Minna) defeated Mr. Faji Fajobi of the UPN(Ekiti South) by 244 to 201votes. Colonel(rtd) Amadi (Owerri North) nominated Alhaji Idris Ibrahim while Mr. Kaltungo seconded his nomination. Alhaji Sidi Alli of the PRP(Kano–Danbatta) nominated Mr. Fajobi and was seconded by Mr. Olaiya Fagbamigbe of the UPN(Akure).

All the elections were conducted by the then Clerk of the National Assembly, Alhaji Gidado Idris GCON.

On October 18, 1979, Presidential Shagari submitted thirty-three ministerial nominees to the Senate, presided over by Dr. Joseph Wayas (21 May 1941 – 30 November 2021). Four of the nominees were Nigerian Peoples Party (NPP)members. They were Chief Paul Unongo (Benue), Professor Ishaya Audu (Kaduna), Chief Ademola Thomas (Lagos) and Chief Mrs Janet Akinrinade (Oyo).

Apart from the Presidency at that time, the NPN had seven governors out of nineteen namely Alhaji Shehu Kangiwa(Sokoto), Chief Melford Okilo(Rivers), Alhaji Awwal Ibrahim(Niger), Alhaji Adamu Attah(Kwara), Dr. Clement Isong(Cross Rivers), Mr Apar Aku(Benue), Alhaji Abubakar Tatari Alli (Bauchi) while UPN had five governors—Chief Bisi Onabanjo(Ogun), Chief Michael Adekunle Ajasin (Ondo), Chief Bola Ige(Oyo), Alhaji Lateef Jakande (Lagos) and Chief Ambrose Ali(Bendel). NPP had three governors— Chief Sam Mbakwe (Imo), Chief Jim Nwobodo (Anambra) and Mr. Solomon Lar (Plateau). The GNPP had two governors—Alhaji Abubakar Barde(Gongola) and Alhaji Goni(Borno). The PRP had two governors— Alhaji Abubakar Rimi(Kano) and Alhaji Balarabe Musa (Kaduna).

Even in the Senate elections, the NPN had 36 seats, UPN-28, NPP—16, GNPP—8 and PRP—7. In the House of Representatives NPN had 168, UPN—111, NPP—79, PRP—47 and GNPP—-44.

The following Senators were elected then—Prince Onyeabo Obi, Dr. Offia Nwali, Chief B.C. Okwu, Chief N.N. Anah and Mr. Isaiah N. Ani(Anambra)—-NPP; Alhaji A.D. Rufai, Alhaji Ibrahim Dimis, Alhaji Ibrahim Jalo Waziri, Alhaji Abdulkadir Yelwaji Saleh and Mr. Uba Ahmed(Bauchi)—NPN; Mr. D.O. Dafinone, Mr. Bardi Joe(both of NPN), Chief John Umolu, Chief E.O. Akpata and Justice Frankly O. Atake(UPN)—-Bendel; Mr. Andrew Abogede, Chief J.S. Tarka, Mr. Suemo Chia, Mr. B.A. Ebute and Colonel Ahmadu Ali (NPN)—Benue; Alhaji Idrisa Kadi, Mr Bukar Sanda, Mr. Jafaru Manga and Mr. Umaru Lawan Bama (GNPP) and Alhaji G. Lawan (UPN)—Borno; Mr. George Daniel and Prince Joseph Ansa(GNPP), Mr. Victor Akpan, Mr. Donald Etiebet and Dr. Joseph Wayas(all of the NPN)—-Cross River.

Pastor Luka Zanyazing, Mr. Bitrus B. Kajal, Alhaji Mahmud Waziri(GNPP), Mr. Iliya Audu(NPN) and Mr. Gayus Gilama(UPN)—Gongola; Mr. Emeka P. Echeruo, Dr. Elijah E. Emezie, Dr. Jaja Nwachukwu, Chief Tony Anyanwu and Mr. Simeon Ojukwu(NPP)—Imo; Alhaji Abba Ali, Mr. Jacob Madawaki and Alhaji Yusuf Ali(NPN), Mr. Bello Bakori and Alhaji Ibrahim Barau(PRP); Alhaji Adamu Gaya, Alhaji Ahmed Zakari, Alhaji Hamisu Musa, Alhaji Usman A. Dambata and Alhaji Sabo B. Zuwo(PRP)—Kano; Alhaji Isa Abonyi Obaro, Mr. Aliyu Mohamadu Gan and Dr. Olusola Saraki(NPN); Mr. Justus Olu Olabode and Mr. C.O. Adebayo(UPN); Alhaji Sikiru Shitta-Bey, Dr. Femi Ayantuga, Alhaji M.A.O. Abiru, Mr. Abayomi Durosinmi and Mr. Adeyiga Ajai(UPN)—Lagos; Alhaji Abubakar Magaji, Alhaji Jubrin Salihu, Alhaji Ibrahim Kolo, Alhaji Abdullahi Mangu and Colonel Garba Dada Paiko(NPN)—Niger state.

Mr. Ladega Daniel Adetola, Mr. Oyero Kunle, Mr. S.O. Sogbein, Chief J.A.O. Adebiyi and Mr. A.A. Adesanya(UPN)—Ogun; Chief E.K. Ogunleye, Mr. Michael Onukun, Professor D.O. Oke, Mr. Ayo Fasanmi and Professor S.A. Akintoye(UPN)—Ondo; Chief Adeleke Ayoola, Dr. Christopher Ilori, Mr. Ademola Adegoke, Dr. Christopher Adeoye and Mr. Olalere Adesina(UPN)—-Oyo; Mr. Abubakar Ibrahim, Mr. Garba Matta, Mr. John Wash Pam, Mr. George Hookwap and Mr. Muhammadu Musa(NPP)—Plateau; Mr. P.J. Ella and Dr. Obi Wali(NPP); Dr. O. Eberewariye, Mr. C.N. Nunije and Mr. Amatari Zuofa(NPN); Mr. Otto Bugundu, Mr. Haruna Muza, Alhaji Garuba Gada, Alhaji Hassan Zuru and Alhaji Garba Kware(NPN)—-Sokoto.

The domination of NPN in 1979 was not in doubt. But for reasons best known to Alhaji Shehu Shagari, the then President, he decided to go into partnership with NPP. He was aware the Presidential Constitution does not allow for partnership or alliance.

Since 1999 to date, no President has ever accommodated members of other parties in government, although some were appointed to government on individual recognition and not as party members. Late Chief Bola Ige, the present Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Chief Nyesom Wike and others, are examples.

In Nigeria, if you lose an election, you are nothing but an orphan. The winner takes all policy as contained in our current Constitution will not bring about the desired unity. It is harmful. No political party or group or tribe or association can do it alone.

Diversity is our strength; unity is our power.