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![[OPINION] A call for African home grown democracy - Sunday Onyemaechi Eze](/media/k2/items/cache/5fba0f8b0d1d1456c64a946a2196d09c_L.jpg)
Democracy offers citizens the choice to freely make political decisions by majority rule. It was defined by Abraham Lincoln as government of the people by the people and for the people. This concept of representative government has been positioned as the best and globally accepted. Where democracy works, it is people-centred. Citizens wield absolute powers to choose who leads in every tiers of government. To this end, people are at liberty to vote any candidate of their choice without let or hindrance. United States of America, Britain and most European countries practice this form of government and have been at the fore front of ensuring that this ideology takes over global governments.
However, some countries have no regard for the western kind of democracy. They have developed home grown system of government peculiar to their needs, aspirations and it serves their purpose better. From available development indices and statistics, those countries are making tremendous progress despite the fact that democracy has nothing to do with their system. China has confounded the world and demystified the notion that democracy is the best form of government. What Africa needs is her peculiar form of home grown democracy to function optimally.
The proponents of democracy as the best form of government hinged their argument on the following principles governing the practice. First, sovereignty of the people. The people wield absolute power to determine who occupies any elective position and govern them through their votes. Second, equality before the law. People are equally protected by the law regardless of their status in the society. The law treats everybody – young, old, male and female, rich or poor same.
Third, majority rule. This is a democratic principle which gives the power to make decisions to the group with highest numbers in the community. It is a social choice rule which permits that when comparing two options, the one preferred by more than half should be considered. Fourth, upholding of minority rights. It upholds legal provisions in democracy intended to recorgnise and accommodate the distinctive needs of non-dominant ethnic or racial groups. Fifth, guarantee of basic human rights. Democracy makes the protection of the fundamental freedoms and rights of all people paramount - this includes right to life; freedom from slavery, torture and freedom of expression.
Sixth, free, fair and credible elections. Democratic practice ideally offers an election comparatively devoid of coercion and manipulation. No rigging, snatching of ballot boxes, shutting down the iREV portal or killing. Seven, rule of the law. It is a state where citizens elect their own leaders and the government itself is bound by the law while also helping to ensure that the law is respected among citizens of the state. Eighth, constitutional limits on government. These are democratic legal and institutional restrictions on the power of the government. They are intended to protect the rights of individuals and minorities.
However, the pitfall of African democracy is evident in the manipulation of electoral system and crooked leadership recruitment process. This has led to abysmal level of development in all sectors across the continent. The imposed version of democracy obtainable in Africa runs short of true representative government. It is a colonial-legacy nailed to the necks of African countries.
Suffice it to say that, the challenges confronting Africa is erected on the weak pillars of her democracy driven by external forces of neo-colonialism. Many Africans have come to the realisation that what is obtainable is akin to voodoo practice tailored to satisfy more of the interest of colonial masters than that of the citizens. This common African democratic system offers the neo-colonialists opportunities to rule by proxy through their anointed rich and powerful puppets who represent their overall interests.
Many African leaders who fit into the above description were/are largely made up of leadership charlatans without character or integrity. They are ready to negotiate away their countries for any amount. Despite the above shortcomings, the colonial powers who cannot tolerate such misgivings in their countries continue to romance and sustain such leaders. The reigns of such leaders only end with military interventions as seen recently or when their people rise and disgrace many of them out of office.
While, the early African democratic processes were beset with naivety, fraud, corruption and electoral irregularities leading to military interventions; the trend has remained the same over the years. The colonial masters pretend to nurture democracy in Africa but they simply manipulate the process to suit their whims. This has led to failure to produce the rightful winners through transparent electoral choices and processes. Who could boldly assert that what is obtainable in Africa and nay Nigeria is ideal democracy?
The electoral processes are marred by obvious state or externally sponsored irregularities to favour certain candidates. They are blatantly flawed and manipulated. With the connivance of some developed countries what is seen as democracy is a selective appointment of their favourites to political offices in the name of election. Nigeria and nay almost African nations have got people with leadership qualities to transform their countries but they are frustrated. The corrupt electoral system gives them no chance. At every electoral recruitment process, they are either rigged out using the electoral umpires, security agencies and even the judiciary.
This disappointedly threw up unpopular figures as leaders who are often forced down the throat of citizens. No time in Nigeria’s political history was the best elected into office. It was deliberately orchestrated to perpetually make Nigeria non-functional. Early in the life of the country, the so-called owners of Nigeria were quite aware that Chief Obafemi Awolowo and Nnamdi Azikiwe were both better leaders than Shehu Shagari but they lost eventually in a keenly contested election to a neophyte through a manipulated process. One wonders why election observers from the west and Europe always spend time and money to monitor and ensure supposedly free and fair elections when they sit on the fence in the face of obvious electoral irregularities whenever they release their reports.
No matter how beautiful democracy is burnished, it represents nothing more than scrap-colonial-legacies, a transition of old feudal and oligarchical systems indirectly imposed on the people as the best form of government. Time has proven that good leadership does not necessarily evolve from democracy. The resounding ovation President of Burkina Faso - Ibrahim Traore received in Ghana as he attended the inauguration of President John Mahama was a pointer to the fact that what people desire are service, patriotic and committed leaders who proffer solutions through developmental strides for the common good. All African leaders who are products of democracy in attendance were jolted at the acceptance and warm reception of a man who is not in their ideological league. This should serve as a lesson and a moment of sober reflection for African leaders who think every election cycle which they will rig to win or sit tight is more important and a reflection of democracy or good governance.
Sunday Onyemaechi Eze, lecturer Department of Mass Communication and Head Internationalisation and Partnership, Coal City University, Enugu State.
![[OPINION] All Hail Iku Baba Yeye! - Wole Olaoye](/media/k2/items/cache/861ac6eb302ee74c9618e82b17d3f4c7_L.jpg?t=20250119_084958)
He is not just a deputy of the gods, he is the father and mother of death, the offspring of perdition, of metaphysical ruination and wanton loss. His suzerainty over Oyo Empire in its glory days was the stuff of which legends have been made. The long list of his forebears and their unique individual legacies beggar belief. He is the Alaafin, the king of Oyo, “owner of the palace”.
Now, things are quieter in the capital city of the Yoruba empire, no thanks to the rude intervention of British colonialists whose contempt of the traditional institution was exemplified in their classifying the seat of the African traditional ruler as a “stool” instead of a “throne”. Unfortunately, many scholarly Africans still carry on with this insult.
Pedigree is everything in Yoruba philosophy of life. A mango tree will never produce guava. An elephant will never beget a rat. The Alaafin of Oyo’s ancestry is traced to Oduduwa, the famed progenitor of the Yoruba race.
Forebears
The Oyo Empire was not a purely hereditary monarchy, nor an absolute one. The Oyo Mesi selected the Alaafin. He was not always closely related to his predecessor, although he had to be a descendant of Oranmiyan royal family.
The Brave And The Bold
In the past, the Alaafin’s eldest son usually succeeded his father on the throne. This sometimes led the crown prince, known as the Aremo, to hasten the death of his father. To prevent that, the traditional authorities enacted a law for the crown prince to be made to commit ritual suicide upon his father’s death. This practice was the subject of Wole Soyinka’s “Death and the King’s Horseman”.
The founding of Oyo is estimated to have happened around 1300. The kingdom has had a storied past. In the beginning before history was born, Oduduwa’s son, Oranmiyan, was the first Alaafin. He was succeeded by Oba Ajaka who was eventually deposed because he lacked Yoruba military virtues of sternness, ruthless efficiency and subterfuge. His junior brother, Shango, was thought to cut the right picture: militant, mystifying and gifted with an infernal temper.
The story of how Shango ended up is well known. His earlier identified virtues turned out to be his Achilles heel. But he had become the personification of vital energy, occult manifestations and cosmic inter-relatedness that he was consecrated as the god of thunder and lightning. There is a huge corpus of work on Shango in many libraries and his devotees are scattered all over Yorubaland and in the Diaspora, especially in Oshogbo, parts of Brazil, Cuba, etc. and wherever Yoruba immigrants and former slaves can be found
Shango’s predecessor, the formerly tame Ajaka, was allowed to return to the throne after the tragic death of his brother. Since that time, Alaafins have come and gone. By tradition, after the demise of an Alaafin, the Oyo Mesi, a body of seven high chiefs, are tasked with superintending the appointment of a new monarch. Their work is well cut out and is usually believed to be facilitated by Ifa divination.
Oyo once had a female king, Alaafin Orompoto, who ruled from 1554 to 1562. She ascended the throne after her father and brother died without producing male heirs.
Process
At times, the laid down process is side-stepped as happened recently with the appointment of Engr. Abimbola Akeem Owoade by the Oyo State government. Alleging that he had proof that six of the kingmakers had been serially bribed by one of the contending princes, the governor had sought the help of another son of Oyo, the famed Professor Wande Abimbola, a noted former vice-chancellor of the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife and world renowned babalawo (diviner) who holds the title of Awise Awo Agbaye. Abimbola has now disclosed that the Ifa oracle chose 47-year-old Abimbola Akeem Owoade of the Owoade-Agunloye, Agure Compound, as the 46th Alaafin.
It will be recalled that In October 2023, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) quizzed some Oyo kingmakers over allegations that they took bribes of N15 million each from one of the candidates.
Flashback
Those who are old enough would remember that the immediate reaction of contending rival princes to the choice of the then Prince Lamidi Olayiwola Adeniran Adeyemi as Alaafin of Oyo several decades ago will tell you that the choice of an Alaafin through a process sidestepping the established route for one reason or the other, is not unprecedented.
Back then in 1970, some of Adeyemi’s rivals argued that he should be disqualified because his father, Oba Adeniran, had been dethroned by the Western Region government after his public spat with council chairman Bode Thomas which eventually led to the strongly held view that he had pronounced a hex on the politician (or bewitched him) leading to his almost immediate death in bizarre circumstances defying medical science. Oba Adeniran, famed husband of 200 wives, died in exile in Lagos.
But fate has its ways. Lamidi, son of Adeniran, whose father had been deposed and exiled in 1954 was announced by the military government as successor of Alaafin Gbadegesin Ladigbolu II in 1970.
In his excellent article titled: “Making of an Aláàfin: Bribes or the gods?”, Festus Adedayo of the Nigerian Tribune asked some very important questions regarding the allegation made by the government of Oyo State that some princes had attempted to win the royal race by resorting to bribery. Hence the government’s resort to Awise Agbaye who himself is one of the highest authorities in the field.
As a people, the Oyo have seen it all: civil and external wars, strife, slavery, colonialism, foreign trade, the trans-Sahara trade route and many other events that shaped their philosophy. The people went through an interregnum of 80 years as an exiled dynasty. Perhaps, they needed that exile because when they started rebuilding, they created a government that established its power over a vast territory that stretched from parts of present day southwest Nigeria to Benin, Togo, Ghana, all the way to parts of Cote d’Ivoire.
Cavalry was the game-changing arm of the Oyo Empire. Late 16th and 17th century expeditions were composed entirely of cavalry. This columnist’s forebears, as related in the family’s “Oriki” (praise name) travelled on horse and camel back as part of a caravan for the annual Muslim pilgrimage in Mecca, a three-month religious cum commercial adventure in those days. It will be recalled that itinerant Islamic scholars had brought Islam to Oyo centuries before the Dan Fodio Jihad.
Urbanised
As a highly urbanised people, Oyo ran a sophisticated and efficient government which guaranteed that the wealthy paid their fair share of tributes to the king who, in turn, gave leadership to the military as the sovereign generalissimo as well as give direction to civil and religious institutions.
Generally speaking, Yoruba people live, breathe, drink and honour their culture. As far back as anyone can remember, Oyo, like other Yoruba groups, had thriving traditional industries with cloth weaving as one of the most lucrative occupations. No wonder, Yorubas have always had different costumes for different occasions.
Relics of architecture within the Oyo Empire, exhibited an intricate built environment showcasing a distinctive architectural style, highlighted by intricate sculptures that symbolised the status of the inhabitants.
There you have it, folks – a glimpse into the kind of people, challenges, and socio-political milieu that the mint-fresh Alaafin Abimbola Akeem Owoade has been endorsed to serve as king. Long may he reign!
![[OPINION] Now, if Ifa collects bribe…- Bolanle Bolawole](/media/k2/items/cache/c1f861a5c957b18082e0bd71d8b0a6eb_M.jpg)
We have been told that as we approach the end-time, there is nothing we shall not see or hear! All things become possible. Yinka Aiyefele told us in one of his songs that Ifa now shouts Alleluia (Ifa n ke alleluya). Now, in the ensuing melee over the appointment of a new Alafin of Oyo, we have witnessed allegations of bribery and corruption fly in all directions, Ifa’s sacred groves inclusive. If gold rusts, what will iron do?
Do we have any institution left that is spared the corrosive influence of corruption? Politicians and civilian governments are corrupt. Soldiers and military governments are corrupt. Judges and the entire judiciary, including the Bar, are corrupt. Lawmakers are corrupt. One speaker of a House of Assembly was removed last week over allegations of corruption, among others. Civil servants are the engine room of corruption. Imams and pastors are corrupt. The common man on the street is corrupt. Traditional rulers are corrupt. Even journalists and writers are corrupt! Everyone is corrupt.
Corruption oozes from every nook and cranny of our national life. But that Ifa, the Yoruba god of divinity that is renowned for purity, has also now been cornered by corruption baffles me! If the government cannot help; if lawmakers cannot help; if judges cannot help, if we cannot seek refuge with the men and women of God; if our traditional institutions are of no consequence; if we all sleep - snoring - with all heads facing the same direction, where will salvation come from?
That there is a tussle over the Alafin stool is normal; princes everywhere contest vigorously for vacant stools. In times past, virtue, not filthy lucre, most of the time determined the winner. I said “most of the time” because history records the shenanigans of princes and kingmakers that truncated virtue even in those very distant times. Since colonial rule and after, Government interference has meant that laws enacted by the government determine succession and whatever disputes that may arise therefrom.
Look around and tell of the occupant of any throne today whose ascension has not been influenced one way or the other by the powers-that-be! The difference, usually, is not in substance but in appearance. To all intents and purposes, traditional rulers today are appointees of the government. They ascend to, and occupy the throne at the pleasure of the government. They spend time there at the mercy of the powers-that-be. They get promoted and can be removed at will. They are glorified artefacts and relics from the past.
The Alafin stool is not new to controversies; if anything, controversies and troubles have been its second nature from time immemorial. However, the intrigues this time around are of a dimension that has repercussions that will reverberate throughout the length and breath of the Yoruba nation. One: If it is true that the choice of the Oyo traditional kingmakers is beholden to the Sokoto caliphate, and that money was used to “press” the hands and pockets of the kingmakers, then, he stands disqualified. Yorubaland must not allow Ilorin to happen again - and not to Oyo of all places!
Scripture says affliction shall not rise a second time (Nahum 1:9). Even if inducement was not involved, the very fact of a cozy relationship with the caliphate automatically disqualifies any candidate to the Alafin stool - indeed, any stool in Yoruba land. Once bitten, forever shy! On the basis of the allegations of financial inducement, the Oyo State Government cancelled the exercise conducted by the kingmakers and embarked on another. Good idea, but bad implementation. That is the problem we run into when we employ half-measures when we ought to have gone the whole hog.
Allegations of giving and receiving bribes are grievous. Trying to sell a throne as important as that of the Alafin is sacrilege. With regard to the importance of the Alafin throne to the entire Yoruba race, it is a treasonable act of unimaginable proportions, especially considering the Yoruba experience with Ilorin. The Oyo State Government was too lenient - too laidback, too lackadaisical, too carefree - in its disposition to those involved in the giving and taking of the alleged bribe - if any. They should have been arrested and handed over for prosecution before warrant chiefs were appointed to fill the vacancies thus created. Assuming that was done and they are by now having their day in court, they would not have been in the position to flex muscles with the government as is currently the case. Besides, the government would today have stood on high moral ground rather than have its back to the wall like the kingmakers and their supporters are trying to do at the moment. But it is not too late for the government to do the needful.
Two: The Baba who was contacted by the Oyo State Government to consult Ifa is known by all to be beyond reproach. His records of probity and integrity are in the public domain. His expertise in Ifa divination is also not in contest. So, I was satisfied when he was said to have been the one who said Ifa chose the prince that was pronounced as the new Alafin by the Oyo State Government. Regardless of whether or not he was the statutory Ifa priest so recognised by law, I go with his recommendation because the occasion was not normal after those with the statutory roles have (allegedly) compromised themselves and their offices.
A desperate situation, they say, demands a desperate solution. This was one such occasion and I salute the Oyo State Government for rising to the occasion. The snag, however, is a news report that says the “authentic” prince chosen by Ifa (which Ifa and by which Ifa priest again?) is neither the one being flaunted by the kingmakers nor the one pronounced as the Alafin by the government. That angle needs to be critically looked at and straightened out. If we are against the injustice of some elements who chose to sell the throne and we insist on the right thing being done, then, we must not, in the same breath, perpetrate injustice in another direction. Like Caesar’s wife, everyone concerned must wash clean on this score.
Otedola, Obaigbena: When two elephants fight …
One good turn deserves another. Our people say if you pour water ahead of you, you will surely step on wet ground. In other words, it is give-and-take. Scripture says if you want to receive, give. “Give and it shall be given unto you…” (Luke 6:38). There are other biblical quotes that support giving as a prerequisite for receiving. Trade by barter, kind of! If you don’t sow, you don’t reap, and whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he reap also (Galatians 6:7). For someone who is slothful and does not want to work, the Bible says such a fellow “shall not eat” (2 Thessalonians 3: 10). A musician converted it into a song thus: if hunger whacks the indolent; let him die! From the above, it is not all giving that is charity. Some giving is a hook meant to attract or draw benefits.
So, when a news organization known for its truculence towards President Bola Ahmed Tinubu suddenly made what looked like a volte-face and announced him their Man of the Year 2024, tongues wagged. One reader callled me and said, “Oga Bola, I smell a rat! Don’t you think this is a Greek gift?” I was surprised that he reasoned that way because I, too, had concluded that Tinubu qualified as my own “Personality of the Year 2024”.
It is not everything that is a Greek gift. Yes, the media establishment in question may have been overly antagonistic to the President; there is nothing extraordinary or unusual about that. In fact, the media by its orientation and calling is supposed to be more adversarial than friendly with any government in power. It is a watchdog and has the constitutional obligation of holding the government accountable to the people. The media must be critical of the government. It must at all times hold the government’s feet to the fire to be able to do that.
That, however, is not to dismiss suspicion. Going forward, the same news organization has made a very influential, even if controversial, ally of the President its Minister of the Year 2024! Pray, what is it gunning for and what is a Greek gift? Greek gift is a gift given with the intention to trick and thereby harm the recipient or receive an intended reward through the back door.
Greek poet, Homer, in his Iliad, tells the story of the war waged by the Greeks against the city-state of Troy but the Greeks were unable to penetrate Troy after a long period of battle. So Agamemnon, king of the Greeks, devised a trick: he constructed a big horse, hid some of his soldiers inside of it and left it at the firmly-secured gate of Troy, after which his troops withdrew into the distance, giving the impression that they had not only abandoned the battlefield but had also left the horse-loving Trojans the gift of a horse, maybe as a form of appeasement and sign of friendship.
The Trojans joyfully dragged the wooden horse into their city. In the night, the soldiers hiding inside the horse came out, slaughtered the guards and opened the gate for Greek soldiers to troop in and capture the city. Hence the saying to this day, “Beware of Greeks bearing gifts” or simply “Beware of Greek gifts”!
Last week when news broke that a first generation bank had instituted court action against the owner of the news organisation that awarded the Man of the Year award to the President, the reader in question called me again and said, “Oga Bola, did I not tell you that I smelled a rat? Will the President sit idly by and allow a man who just gave him the Greek gift of Man of the Year to be ridiculed or will he step in to arrange some sort of soft-landing for him?”
Later, we saw pictures of the bank boss with the President: Has he been reported to the President? Was he summoned? Or did he go on his own volition to counterbalance influence? The bank boss gave his own side of the story to the media, which painted a gory picture of corruption in high places. Did he sway the President? When the news media concerned responded with their own explanation, I honestly was convinced they, too, had a good case. But when the bank responded again, I got confused! There were a lot of technical terms and jargons traded to and fro. I am neither a lawyer nor a financial expert. The courts should be allowed to comb through the jig-saw puzzle in a way that will, in the end, serve the public interest.
But note that Greek gifts, once received, become a bait. And any trap that fails to make the intended catch must return the bait to the owner!
![[OPINION] To keep Nigeria one is onerous - Simon Kolawole](/media/k2/items/cache/91ae1cbf23c9e0173804e8f43bd5e315_M.jpg)
How can I forget? On April 22, 1990, Major Gideon Orkar announced the overthrow of Gen Ibrahim Babangida’s military regime which he described in choice words as “dictatorial, corrupt, drug-baronish, deceitful”. In those days, every coup speech was welcomed with enthusiasm. Every new administration was seen as the dawn of a golden era. Orkar made promises many southern activists and opinion leaders love till this day, calling the coup “a well-conceived and executed revolution for the marginalised, oppressed and enslaved peoples of the Middle Belt and the South with a view to freeing ourselves and children yet unborn from eternal slavery and colonisation by a clique”.
Orkar announced “on behalf of the patriotic and well-meaning peoples of the Middle Belt and the Southern parts of this country” that the new regime, named “National Ruling Council”, would lay a strong “egalitarian foundation” for “the real democratic take-off”. To achieve this, he said five states had been “temporarily” excised from Nigeria: Sokoto (today’s Sokoto, Kebbi and Zamfara), Kano (Kano and Jigawa), Bauchi (Bauchi and Gombe), Borno (Borno and Yobe) and Katsina “to end the northern feudalistic and aristocratic quest for domination”. He said all their citizens were suspended from private and public offices and they should return to their states “within one week from today”.
At Dele Giwa Square, University of Lagos, hundreds of students gathered after the coup announcement. My friend and I went there to see the drama playing out as tension gripped the nation. A student appeared on the podium with a new map of Nigeria. Kwara had been chopped off! My friend and I were from Kwara (before I was transferred to Kogi state in 1991). My friend whispered to me in Yoruba: “Simon, jek’a ma lo o. Won ni aki ns’ara won!” (“Simon, let’s start going. They say we are not part of them!”) Even Benue, Orkar’s own state, had been wiped off the map by the exuberant cartographer. The map had only southern states. The coup, in any case, was foiled.
That friend of mine is Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, now the director-general of National Orientation Agency (NOA), a government body charged with fostering unity and national development through citizen enlightenment and engagement. Issa-Onilu and I had met at the Kwara Poly in 1987 where we studied for two years for A Levels, but we were mostly football-discussing pals, nothing more. We shared two subjects — economics and government — and attended some classes together. But when I got into the University of Lagos in 1989, we ran into each other — the “you again?” moment. It turned out we were going to study the same course. Our friendship was instantly reignited.
We were similar but different — and this has nothing to do with tongue or religion. He always wanted to serve in government and was also interested in prompting national values, patriotism, national unity and such like. I was also a preacher of patriotism and national unity, but, unlike him, I was not interested in being part of government or politics. All I ever wanted was to be a journalist. And for life. I remembered when I filled my JAMB form, mass communication was my first, second and third choices. Issa-Onilu and I also differed on our views about Babangida: he believed there was something good about his policies and his message of patriotism. For me, Babangida was bad news.
I initially loved Babangida when he became military president in 1985. I even sketched a portrait of him which was published by the Nigerian Herald on March 1, 1986. But as soon as he introduced SAP and the prices of essential commodities went haywire, I began to dislike him. I admit that my knowledge of economic policy was very limited then, but I believed his policies were too harsh and that he set out to punish the poor. I remember composing a song (I used to think I could sing in those days) with these lines: “Dem give us SFEM/Dem give us SAP/Dem drain our blood/We’re still alive/ Dem give us SFEM/Dem give us SAP/Dem drain our blood/We’ll still survive”. I was not a fan of SAP.
Despite our opposing positions on Babangida and politics, Issa-Onilu and I loved Nigeria. I find it surreal that not only has he ended up in politics, he has also been saddled with the responsibility of promoting patriotism and national values. I do not envy him. How do you preach national unity in a country bitterly divided along ethno-religious and regional lines which the Orkar coup speech amplified and which continue to define us as a people? How do you preach national values in a country ravaged by official corruption, low public morale and discontent? How do you preach moral values in a country where wealth without work has been so normalised? That is quite an assignment!
Recently, I wrote an article, ‘Let’s be Kind to Nigeria, Please!’ — basically pleading that we should not take joy in talking down on our country and amplifying only bad news about us while neglecting the good things also happening around us. I said we can dislike the president but still love our country. After reading it, Issa-Onilu called me up and shared his takes with me. We ended up having a long chat. He then told me about the National Values Charter (NVC) that the NOA has developed “to help redirect all Nigerians, irrespective of class, ethnicity, and religion, to the ideals and values for which we were traditionally known and that were used to build our various societies and their institutions”.
He said the “7 for 7” NVC is divided into two: the Nigerian Promise and the Citizen’s Commitment to the Nigerian State. The Nigerian Promise is the seven core promises of Nigeria (represented by elected leaders) to the citizens. He said the Nigerian state owes Nigerians seven promises: equality, meaning all privileges, opportunities and rights apply to all without exemption; democracy, or democratisation of governance dividends to all; entrepreneurship and employment, by promoting innovation and creativity to create jobs; peace and security, to keep everyone safe; inclusivity, for all classes of Nigerians; freedom and justice for all; and promoting meritocracy above “connections”.
On the other hand, he said, Nigerians owe their country seven things: discipline, by obeying the rules, etc; duty of care by looking out for one another and participating in their community; tolerance and respect, through harmonious co-existence; leadership by example in our little corners; transparency and accountability in our dealings; environmental awareness by living, thinking and acting sustainably; and resilience, cultivated through pride and perseverance as individuals and as communities through the thick and thin. The citizenship code is quite a lot to take in, sure. He summed it up by saying the proper definition of citizenship is to be found in those seven core values.
NOA has already taken the campaign to schools, starting with a debate on university campuses with special focus on the balance between government promises and citizens’ responsibilities in nation-building. It came with cash prices and training opportunities. The initiative seeks to create a generation of value-conscious leaders who will promote national unity and strengthen our collective identity. There are plans to incorporate citizenship studies into the curriculum and launch citizens’ brigades in elementary schools, which I think is the right target if we want to produce new Nigerians. It will be too challenging trying to re-orientate Nigerians who harbour 1914, 1960 or 1966 mindsets.
For me, I believe we can build a new Nigeria. However, I believe we cannot build a new Nigeria without new Nigerians. We need a new generation of thinkers and opinion leaders who will see beyond their primordial cocoons, who will create a big picture. National integration and cohesion can help drive peace and progress, as we have seen in many parts of the world — including Rwanda that went through a genocide 30 years ago — but there are many Nigerians who dearly believe the way forward is ethnic chauvinism and balkanisation. It is the same toxic mindset that got us into this bind in the first place. I know these people have their reasons, but extremism does not solve problems.
By the way, I have my own misgivings about Nigeria. I have issues with certain practices, certain structures, certain notions. But, as I have been arguing on this page for 22 years, our fundamental problems go beyond the popular diagnosis of “1914”. How many African countries that were not “amalgamated” are better off? Moreso, every country is an artificial creation. Some chose to work with their realities and became success stories. If they can, we too can. We are victims of political mismanagement and the relentless manipulation of primitive sentiments for political gain. My critics think I say these things to portray myself as a patriot. No. I say them because I believe them.
I know that ordinary Nigerians suffer from the same afflictions of misgovernance: poverty and disease. The system is heavily rigged against them. They feed on crumbs, no matter their region or religion. As Lagbaja sang, “Me and you no be enemy/We suppose to be family/Na wetin you dey find I dey find.” The NVC makes sense to me because it is not just about the responsibilities of the citizens to Nigeria but also the duties of the leadership to the citizens. Will Nigerians embrace it? Will it get the buy-in of the critical political authorities? Most importantly, if Nigeria fails to deliver on the obligations, what can we do? Issa-Onilu and his NOA team have an unenviable task in their hands.
AND FOUR OTHER THINGS…
ONE LOVE
Governor Alex Otti of Abia state just gladdened my heart: he appointed Mr Benjamin Ojeikere from Edo state as the head of civil service. This high-level appointment of a non-indigene encourages me yet again to keep dreaming that national integration is possible. I am a pro-integration Nigerian. I am anti-balkanisation. Therefore, when things like this happen, I am encouraged to keep pursuing my mantra: that Nigerians do not hate one another as it appears. It is politics that divides us. To be sure, these cross-border appointments have been happening for years but they are in fits and starts and not widespread enough. I look forward to the day it will become a norm, not an exception. Progress.
MIDDLE ROAD
After much spat, the states have reached a common ground on the new sharing formula for VAT which had stalled the passage of the tax reform bills. The current VAT vertical formula allocates 15 percent to federal government, 50 percent to states, and 35 percent to LGAs. States share their slice on a horizontal ratio of 50:30:20 — equality, population, derivation. The new vertical proposal was 10 percent to federal government, 55 percent to states and 35 percent for LGAs. States were to use a horizontal ratio of 20:20:60 — equality, population, derivation — for their own share. A resolution has been reached to use 50:20:30. We can now kill the tension and move forward. Compromise.
GOOD RIDDANCE
Hon. Mudashiru Obasa was surprisingly removed as the speaker of the Lagos state house of assembly on Monday and replaced with Hon Mojisola Meranda, who is now the first female speaker in the state. Obasa impeached? Who saw that coming? I don’t know him and I have never interacted with him but, somehow, I have never been his fan. My attitude to him was worsened by his response to allegations that he awarded contracts running into hundreds of millions to a “female friend”. His response was “nina lowo” — meaning “money is meant to be spent”. I was so enraged. Lagos does not joke with collecting our taxes and its principal officials still talk down on us like this? Arrogant.
NO COMMENT
Senator Ali Ndume is one of the most outspoken senators and has been very critical of the policies of President Tinubu. He was very vocal over the tax reform bills, which he says would marginalise the north. These bills are at the heart of a major policy thrust of the Tinubu administration and the president wanted to push them through despite strong opposition. Ndume, also a member of the president’s party, was recently spotted at Jummah prayers shaking hands with Tinubu and grinning from ear to ear. He later said Tinubu is his mentor and that he only criticises his policies, not his personality — meaning he was shouting at someone he could have whispered to. Wonderful.
![[OPINION] There Is No Such Thing As “Diezani Loot” - Mike Ozekhome, SAN](/media/k2/items/cache/467352e7523d9c20deff0f1ad8813836_M.jpg)
My chambers makes this intervention in the public domain as Solicitors to Diezani Alison-Madueke ( DAM ),the former Honourable Minister of Petroleum Resources (HMPR). As her Solicitors, we are fully versed in and conversant with her present ordeal and the entire facts surrounding her matters both here in Nigeria and abroad. So, we write from the vantage position of one that is aware of the cocktail of lies that have been spurned around her cases in the last ten years. Many of the narratives are outrightly false; some others sheer outlandish speculations; and most, simply bizzare stories cooked up by her traducers to extract a Shylock's pound of flesh from her for reasons she does not know and cannot even fathom. This intervention therefore seeks to correct this skewed narrative and set the records straight for purposes of history. Many Nigerians often talk about wanting ‘technocrats’ to be involved in governance. They desire that people with character and integrity should join politics. We agree with them. However and regrettably too, now and again and many a time, the same people not only allow, but but actually join the bandwagon to mob-lynch those who chose to serve the nation. And we often do this insidiously, covertly and overtly, even when there is no concrete or even any iota of proof that such public officers ever abused their offices or stole from public coffers. It is therefore surprising and of great concern to us, to see the level of sustained vilification of an innocent Nigerian citizen who has not yet been tried and found guilty of any offence known to law by any court of law whether in Nigeria or abroad. The person at the receiving end is Citizen Diezani Alison-Madueke (“DAM”).
- THE GALACTICA YACHT AND THE FALSE NARRATIVE
We note with concern the recent deliberate attempt to link her with what has been described as a civil forfeiture of a yacht Galactica, the sale of which was said to have yielded $52.8m to the US government; which sum has since been repatriated to Nigeria. This is a clear example of the mischievous and cruel sport of tarnishing the image of the lady through a bouquet of consistent, persistent and unrelenting cocktail of falsehoods and misinformation. The purveyors of this line of misinformation term it “name-and-shame”. To sell the storyline, the architects ensured they attached Diezani’s name to a recovered yacht which is not in any way linked to her. They now falsely termed it “Diezani loot”. Nothing of the sort ever happened. She was never involved in the purchase, use and sale of the said yacht. The yacht Galactica, from information readily available in the public domain and in open sources, was purchased by Mr Kola Aluko who had used the vessel until he agreed to its forfeiture to the United States of America. The yacht Galactica was neither owned nor ever used by our client. DAM has in fact never set her eyes on the yacht. Kola Aluko is an experienced businessman who had been in business well before DAM came into office as HMPR. The only tenuous basis for deliberately linking DAM to the said yacht is the false narrative that the Strategic Alliance Agreements (SAAs) which were entered into between Kola Aluko & Jide Omokore’s Atlantic Energy companies and NNPC, were allegedly corruptly awarded to the said companies by DAM. DAM was not the GMD of the NNPC as so did not and could not have awarded the said contracts.
- THE GALACTICA YACHT SPIN AND THE ALLEGED CORRUPT AWARD OF THE CONTRACT HAS ALREADY BEEN DEBUNKED BY A COMPETENT COURT OF LAW IN NIGERIA.
The fallacy of DAM’s involvement in an alleged corrupt contract which gave birth to proceeds with which the Galactica was supposedly purchased has long been debunked and laid to rest by a Nigerian competent court of law in Charge No. FHC/ABJ/CR/121/2016: Federal Republic of Nigeria vs Olajide Omokore & Others.In that case, the Federal High Court, coram Hon.Justice Nnamdi Dimgba (now of the Court of Appeal), held that the Strategic Alliance Agreements (SAAs) between NNPC and the Atlantic Companies were validly entered into between the said companies and the NNPC. Furthermore, the said companies and their chairman were discharged and acquitted of any offence howsoever in relation to allegedly obtaining the contract or monies realized from it through false representations. They were also exonerated and freed of the offence of money laundering in relation to the said contracts with which they were also charged.The judgement in the case clearly established that the said contracts were properly awarded by NNPC and that the said award followed due process.
To characterize such a forfeiture of a yacht allegedly bought with proceeds of the valid contracts as being linked to DAM simply on account of the legitimate SAAs, which have since been adjudged and held by the court to have been validly entered into between the NNPC and the said companies, is completely preposterous, if not outrightly bizzare.
- DAM WAS NEVER A PARTY TO THE SAAs
Even at that, DAM was never a party to the contract process or contract negotiations, or contract selection for the award of the Strategic Alliance Agreements (SAAs) between the NNPC and Atlantic Energy Ltd. That contract process, like all others before and after it, was handled solely by the NNPC which followed its usual contract award due process to the letter. It did not involve DAM in any way or manner.
There was therefore nothing untoward, opaque or illegal whatsoever and howsoever about the SAA award process. As a matter of fact, the terms of the Atlantic Energy SAAs were made even more stringent for the Atlantic companies and constituted a much better deal for Nigeria than the SSAs which were entered into a few years earlier between the NNPC and the ENI-AGIP Multinational.
- DAM MERELY ACTED AND DISCHARGED HER DUTIES WITHIN HER STATUTORY RESPONSIBILITIES
It was our client’s statutory duty as the HMPR at the final stage of any contract process, to make final signatory and approval on behalf of the Ministry of Petroleum Resources (MPR). However, NNPC would, as always, have first vetted and carried out all due diligence which include necessary operational and contractual checks and procedures. That would not have involved and did not infact did not involve DAM as the HMPR.
In line with due process and as statutorily required, DAM merely appended her signature to the final approval request letter which was forwarded to the office of the HMPR by the GMD, NNPC. As due process had already been observed and followed, the SAAs were signed off by her as required of her by law. DAM in the usual course of her duties did exactly the same thing every month for each of the hundreds of contracts that she had to sign-off on without any preferential treatment. And that is because it was an integral part of her statutory responsibilities as HMPR. DAM thus merely followed due process to the letter. She never engaged in the operational process of negotiating those contracts as this process was entirely and without exception, within the remit of the NNPC which was an independent entity from her office as HMPR.
- DAM WAS NOT INVOLVED IN THE NON-PAYMENT OF CASH CALLS
Let us be very clear about this: the issues of non-payment of the cash-calls that subsequently arose in the Atlantic Energy SAAs had nothing whatsoever to do with the initial contract award which followed due process and was properly made. Those issues arose as a direct result of the manner of operational implementation and supervision and had nothing whatsoever to do with DAM. She was never involved in any way or manner. As a matter of fact in April 2014, as soon as she was brought to her attention by an external multinational head that there were some issues regarding the Atlantic Energy SAAs, she immediately took strong and direct action by promptly alerting Mr. President, the Permanent Secretary (PS), of MPR and the GMD-NNPC, in writing, and directed that an immediate two-week investigation be carried out. Following the resulting investigative report, DAM again directed in writing to the PS, MPR and the GMD-NNPC, with Mr. President’s knowledge and approval, that a process for the recovery of the unpaid cash-call be immediately put in place.
- DAM NEVER SOLD OFF OIL BLOCKS CONTAINED IN THE SAAs
It must therefore be emphasized that although a portion of the media severally unfairly vilified and accused DAM of purportedly selling off the oil blocks contained in the SAAs to Atlantic Energy, she never gave such a directive or approval.
- EARLIER WILD ALLEGATIONS AND THE PET PHRASE, “DIEZANI-LOOT”
This is not the first time this genre of outlandish allegations have been levelled against DAM. Sometime ago, she was widely but falsely accused of owning a diamond-studded bikini underwear allegedly valued at $12,000,000!. Incredible!! The allegation was so unnatural, wild and baseless that the then Executive Chairman of the EFCC, Abdulrasheed Bawa, was compelled to publicly deny and denounce the vile allegation as being not only false, but preposterous. Similarly, when certain people were accused of bribing INEC officials, the bribe sums were unjustifiably linked to DAM and labelled, as is always mischievously done, ‘Diezani-loot’. Yet, all that she did was to merely coordinate the raising of campaign funds for the then ruling political party that controlled the government she served under at that material time. She readily handed over the raised funds to the party which then determined how the said funds were disbursed without involving her. She was not in any way a beneficiary of the funds realized.
- DAM WAS NAMED IN A CRIMINAL CHARGE WITHOUT ANY LINKAGE WHATSOEVER
DAM was gleefully named many times on the face of a charge filed against Atlantic Energy in Charge No. FHC/ABJ/CR/121/2016: Federal Republic of Nigeria vs Olajide Omokore & Others. In the said charge preferred by the EFCC in respect of an alleged bribing of some INEC officials, DAM was never made a party or Defendant to the said charge such as to enable her defend herself. Yet they mentioned her name severally. She was forced to apply to be joined as a Defendant to the said counts in the charge to enable her clear her name. Surprisingly and curiously, the application for joinder was strangely and fiercely opposed by the same EFCC that filed the charge, leading to the striking out of her name from the said charge sheet.
- HOW THE WORD “ DIEZANI LOOT” EXCITES MANY, EVEN THOUGH PATENTLY FALSE
In spite of these clear verifiable facts which are available in the public domain, DAM has continued to be the subject of dersion and grave unproven allegations that are demonstrably false and patently ill-motivated. This traducing notwithstanding, the harrowing experience of cancer-related health challenges she has been going through in the last ten years of her life would not allow her a breathing space. It appears that nothing excites the purveyors and peddlers of these orchestrated misinformation and falsehood more than spinning and heaping all forms of false allegations on her, no matter how palpably false, baseless, disingenuous and unbelievable. It satiates their over- bloated egos to tar her with the paintbrush of shame.
- DAM HAS ALWAYS BEEN UPRIGHT IN THE DISCHARGE OF HER DUTIES
DAM worked conscientiously and discharged her duties diligently to the best of her ability in service to her fatherland. She remains the only Petroleum Minister to have left behind, a staggering sum of over
$4Billion in the NLNG Account representing Gas Sector Investment Funds. She did this to steady the incoming administration of former president, Muhammadu Buhari, at the end of her tenure in May, 2015. She did this in the hope of ensuring continuity in the development of the critical Gas sector). This sum which was saved for the development of the important Gas Sector was summarily spent and disbursed immediately by the Buhari administration upon assumption of office. No one appears interested in this foresight or patriotic inclination.
- THE SENSITIVE NATURE OF THE POSITION OF HMPR
It should be appreciated by all that DAM'S position as the Federal Minister of Petroleum Resources was an extremely sensitive one that required careful navigation. This is a position which had before then and till now been mostly reserved for and been occupied by the ruling Presidents of Nigeria in their personal capacities. This position came not only with its burdens, but also with special legitimate privileges which have since formed the linchpin and cornerstone of the underlying sundry accusations levied against her, but without any proof of having committed any offence known to law.
- DAM HAS BEEN INVESTIGATED FOR 10 YEARS WITHOUT ANY EVIDENCE OF CORRUPTION
For the avoidance of doubt, DAM remains the only former minister who has been kept under full focus and investigation in the United Kingdom by the UK authorities, in collaboration with the Nigerian authorities, since 2nd October, 2015. This is almost 10 years ago; and just barely one week after she completed and survived a grueling 8- month serial chemotherapy treatments for Triple Negative breast cancer. During this agonizing time, she went into a coma, escaping death by the whiskers. It could only have been God at work that is alive today!
- CONFIRMATION BY THE PAST EFCC CHAIRMAN THAT DAM IS INNOCENT OF THESE VILE ALLEGATIONS
It is of interest to note that on two separate occasions, the immediate past Executive Chairman of the EFCC, Abdulrasheed Bawa, confirmed to DAM’s other lawyers that no funds from the coffers of the Federal Government of Nigeria have been found ever stolen by her; and that no such funds had ever been traced to her.
- DAM’S TRAVAILS ARE DRIVEN BY WILD SPECULATIONS AND PUBLIC LYNCHING MINDSET
DAM’s travails over these years have been founded solely on baseless and unfounded speculations and allegations which wrongly alleged that she obtained unlawful gifts and favours from operators within the petroleum industry. She had never been accosted or charged with stealing or pilfering government money. These matters of obtaining unlawful gifts and favours are now subject of proceedings against DAM in the United Kingdom.
- DAM HAS BEEN DEPENDING ONLY ON GOODWILL FOR HER SURVIVAL
It is only recently that DAM was actually charged to court in the UK on the 2nd of October, 2023. She had prior to that date been held in the UK for a prolonged period of over eight years whilst the UK’s authorities conducted their investigation on her. As she had no work papers, she was not permitted to work to fend for herself. She has not even been permitted to leave the UK since the 2nd of October, 2015, till date. Thus, for nearly ten years, DAM has had to depend for her survival, solely and entirely on the goodwill of a few friends and family members to survive.
- SALIENT FACTS TO NOTE ABOUT DAM BUT WHICH HER TRADUCERS WILL WANT BURIED
The following facts are worth noting about DAM for the sake of history and posterity:
- DAM was the most senior black woman ever in the African Oil and Gas Public Sector (between 2010 & 2015).
- DAM was the first female Executive Director of Shell Petroleum Development Company Nigeria, in its entire history in Nigeria; a position she did not lobby for. She was identified, recognised and appointed, through her sheer dint of hard work and sense of professionalism by the relevant Global Heads of Shell in the Hague, Netherlands,
- DAM has so far been the first and only female Petroleum Minister in Nigeria’s history. She never lobbied for this position. She was actually initially nominated without her knowledge.
- DAM has been the first and only female President of OPEC in the organization’s entire history since its founding in 1960. She also did not lobby for this lofty position.
- DAM was nominated for and served in various federal ministerial positions under two separate Presidents; positions she never sought nor lobbied for.
OUR PLEA TO ALL
We plead, as her lawyers, with all and sundry that she ge accorded fair hearing and that the process of these UK court proceedings be allowed to take their natural course to avoid prejudice to her in the ongoing subjudice UK proceedings against her. Those purveyors and peddlers who habitually spin these outrightly false, unfounded, defamatory, unintelligent and indefensible narratives to denigrate and humiliate her should please find better use of their time and leave DAM alone. Let the law take its natural course without interference. We humbly pray.
[OPINION] Kate Henshaw’s Insight: Why Native Doctors Aren’t Among The World’s Richest - Isaac Asabor
Admin![[OPINION] Kate Henshaw’s Insight: Why Native Doctors Aren’t Among The World’s Richest - Isaac Asabor](/media/k2/items/cache/bda216f6e5bcb1dbe8f996b5d9fe4af7_M.jpg)
Renowned Nollywood actress Kate Henshaw recently posed a thought-provoking question on her X (formerly Twitter) page: “No native doctor is among the first 200,000 richest men in the world, yet people going to them to be rich. Why.....?????” This statement, though laced with humor, draws attention to a cultural paradox that warrants deeper reflection. Why do individuals place their faith in practices that seemingly fail to produce tangible wealth for the very custodians of such rituals? Kate’s observation invites us to question not only the efficacy of traditional beliefs but also the broader societal mindset that perpetuates them.
In a world where economic hardship is pervasive, especially in African region, many people are desperate for solutions to escape poverty. For centuries, native doctors have been regarded as custodians of power, possessing mystical abilities to influence fortunes. The promise of instant wealth, good fortune, and success is a tempting proposition for those struggling to make ends meet.
However, Kate Henshaw’s question brings a glaring inconsistency to light. If these native doctors genuinely possess the ability to make people wealthy, why are they themselves not among the wealthiest individuals in the world? It is a sobering reminder that the allure of shortcuts to prosperity often blinds people to the obvious flaws in such beliefs.
In fact, many cultures, particularly in Africa, are steeped in traditional beliefs that glorify the power of spiritual intervention. Native doctors, witch doctors, and other spiritual practitioners are seen as intermediaries between humans and supernatural forces. They promise to remove obstacles, secure contracts, or even curse competitors. But these claims often fail to stand up to scrutiny in the modern era, where wealth generation is tied to innovation, hard work, and strategic planning rather than rituals or sacrifices.
In contrast, the world’s richest individuals, from Elon Musk to Jeff Bezos, have achieved their wealth through industries like technology, retail, and investments. These are domains where success is built on tangible contributions and measurable results, not mystical rituals. This stark difference highlights the limitations of relying on unverified spiritual practices as a pathway to success.
To understand why people still flock to native doctors despite their apparent inability to enrich themselves, we must delve into the psychology of belief. Many individuals seek solace in spiritual practices because they provide hope and a sense of control in an unpredictable world. The rituals performed by native doctors are often elaborate and symbolic, offering participants a placebo effect that boosts their confidence and motivation.
Additionally, societal pressures play a significant role. In many African communities, success is not just a personal goal but a collective expectation. The stigma of failure drives some individuals to explore any avenue that promises results, including consulting native doctors. When these attempts fail, the blame is often shifted to external factors such as insufficient offerings or the presence of stronger opposing forces, perpetuating the cycle of belief.
Another dimension of this issue is the economic exploitation inherent in these practices. Native doctors often charge exorbitant fees for their services, exploiting the desperation of their clients. In some cases, individuals are encouraged to sacrifice valuable assets or take on debt to fulfill the requirements of rituals. Far from alleviating poverty, these practices often exacerbate financial struggles.
This exploitation is particularly troubling when juxtaposed with the wealth of the world’s richest individuals. While billionaires invest in businesses, research, and philanthropy to grow their wealth, native doctors rely on a system that drains resources from their clients without offering any tangible returns. Kate Henshaw’s observation underscores the futility of such endeavors and the need for a shift in perspective.
One way to address this cultural paradox is through education and awareness. By promoting financial literacy and emphasizing the value of hard work, innovation, and strategic thinking, societies can empower individuals to pursue sustainable paths to wealth. Education can also help dispel myths and misconceptions about the efficacy of traditional practices, encouraging people to adopt more evidence-based approaches to problem-solving.
Furthermore, governments and non-governmental organizations can play a role in providing opportunities for economic empowerment. Programs that offer skills training, access to credit, and support for small businesses can help reduce the dependency on spiritual interventions as a means to achieve success.
Kate Henshaw’s post is not just a witty remark but a call for reflection. It challenges us to examine the beliefs and practices that shape our lives and question their impact on our progress. While it is important to respect cultural traditions, it is equally crucial to recognize when those traditions hinder rather than help.
The irony of native doctors not being among the world’s richest individuals should serve as a wake-up call. It highlights the need to prioritize tangible efforts over spiritual shortcuts in the quest for wealth. As Kate’s post suggests, the path to prosperity lies not in rituals but in embracing the principles that have proven effective in the modern world.
Kate Henshaw’s statement is a timely reminder of the importance of critical thinking in navigating life’s challenges. By questioning the reliance on native doctors for wealth, she opens the door to a broader conversation about the values and practices that shape our societies. It is a call to action for individuals to invest in themselves, seek knowledge, and pursue sustainable means of achieving their goals.
Ultimately, the responsibility lies with each of us to break free from the cycle of superstition and embrace a future built on hard work, innovation, and resilience. As Kate’s post aptly implies, the richest individuals in the world did not get there through rituals but through their ability to create value. It is time we learned from their example and charted a new course for our lives.
[OPINION] The Government College Umuahia Trail Blazing Take-over Of Their Alma Mater - Sonny Iroche
Admin![[OPINION] The Government College Umuahia Trail Blazing Take-over Of Their Alma Mater - Sonny Iroche](/media/k2/items/cache/b33abe87d63c5a6451627933e2a995f2_S.jpg)
The Government College Umuahia Old Boys Association (GCUOBA) successfully took over their alma mater through a Deed of Trust, signed with the Abia State government in 2015, following the presentation of a comprehensive Master Plan for the Fisher Educational Development Trust Fund, which was established by the Old Boys (Rev. Robert Fisher was the founding principal of GCU in 1929).
Once the transition was complete, the association put a halt to new student admissions to give the current students a chance to graduate, allowing the establishment of elevated standards for future cohorts.
The Old Boys organized themselves into class WhatsApp groups, diaspora networks, and global platforms, fostering a spirit of healthy competition. By 2022, they had successfully raised an estimated sum of N3.5 billion (before the Naira's devaluation). Each class selected various college projects to support, including the renovation of classrooms, the dining hall, residential houses, the library, and laboratories.
The Old Boys' initiative to restore Government College Umuahia is among the few groundbreaking examples in Nigeria. Other institutions like Government College Ugheli, Government College Ibadan, CIC Enugu, CKC Onitsha, and DMGS have since adopted similar approaches, inspired by the Umuahian method.
Having completed the restoration of GCU's infrastructure, the Old Boys recognized that a conducive environment is just one aspect of education. They established a School management committee staffed by Old Boys to oversee the college's operations. This committee regularly engages with parents, teachers, and the Abia State government to ensure collaborative governance.
New student admissions resumed in 2022 following the graduation of all remaining legacy students, and were conducted in strict accordance with Umuahian and international standards and principles of meritocracy.
It has become clear that government entities are ill-equipped to manage educational institutions, as their focus is divided among various constitutional responsibilities and they often lack the necessary resources in light of competing economic and social priorities.
Given this context, we call upon both federal and state governments to consider transferring the administration of certain secondary and tertiary institutions to willing and capable Old Boys who aspire to emulate the Umuahian model.
Old Boys from other schools and colleges interested in taking charge of their institutions should adopt the GCU model and develop a sustainable plan, just as the Umuahians did that ensures a strong educational system for their institutions and, by extension, the nation.
[OPINION] Elevating the EFCC to World-Class Standards: An Urgent Appeal to the Speaker and Senate President for Legislative and Financial Backing - John Egbeazien Oshodi
Admin![[OPINION] Elevating the EFCC to World-Class Standards: An Urgent Appeal to the Speaker and Senate President for Legislative and Financial Backing - John Egbeazien Oshodi](/media/k2/items/cache/422cdfdc25e751ac8c15a7dd115b5fd2_S.jpg)
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) stands as a critical pillar in Nigeria’s ongoing battle against corruption. Its determined efforts have resulted in the recovery of billions of naira in stolen public funds, the seizure of illicitly acquired properties, and the prosecution of high-profile offenders. These successes not only underscore the EFCC’s indispensable role in governance but also contribute significantly to national development and the restoration of public confidence in Nigeria’s legal and institutional framework. However, the sustainability and amplification of these successes depend on decisive legislative and financial interventions.
As the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the Senate President, your leadership is essential in securing the resources, structural reforms, and institutional support required to elevate the EFCC. This agency is unlike any other. Unlike the Nigeria Police Force, which is gradually being streamlined into a federal entity with its focus on protecting federal institutions, especially with the impending establishment of state police forces across the nation, the EFCC remains a national institution with a broader mandate. It operates across every state and region, targeting financial crimes, corruption, and fraudulent activities that often transcend jurisdictional boundaries. This national scope requires not only a larger workforce but also advanced infrastructure, innovative tools, and far-reaching operational strategies to ensure it continues to combat corruption effectively and efficiently.
The EFCC operates in an environment defined by high stakes and significant risks. Its personnel face unique challenges, including psychological pressures, threats to their safety, and ethical dilemmas in handling cases involving billions of naira, luxury properties, and powerful individuals. These men and women are directly responsible for confiscating millions and sometimes billions of naira, as well as luxury properties, during the course of their work. This immense responsibility puts them in proximity to vast wealth, and without adequate salaries and welfare, they are at significant psychological risk of succumbing to temptation. Poor salaries in such an environment create a dangerous imbalance, as officers may become vulnerable to bribery, manipulation, or immoral practices. To prevent this, it is essential that EFCC officers are paid exceptionally well, with salaries that reflect the scale of their responsibilities and the risks they face.
In addition to competitive salaries, the EFCC must offer robust welfare packages to ensure that its personnel are motivated, insulated from corruption, and fully focused on their critical tasks. Officers managing high-stakes investigations and handling large recoveries must have the assurance that their personal welfare and that of their families are secure. This includes performance-based bonuses for exceptional recoveries or successful prosecutions, hardship allowances for officers assigned to high-risk cases, and secure housing estates that protect their families from potential retaliation by suspects or criminals.
The EFCC’s infrastructure must also reflect the magnitude of its operations and adapt to Nigeria’s challenging environments. Given the tough terrains, poor road networks, and extensive waterways across the country, the EFCC requires specialized and durable transportation solutions to support its mission effectively. The agency needs strong, rugged vehicles capable of navigating rough and remote areas to ensure seamless operations. These should include armored transport vehicles for safely moving confiscated cash and high-value items, as well as off-road vehicles designed for difficult-to-access locations. High-speed motorcycles should also be made available to enhance mobility in congested urban areas or regions with limited road infrastructure.
For operations on waterways, which are critical for monitoring illicit financial activities and asset transportation, the EFCC needs fast and reliable speedboats. These boats must be equipped with advanced communication systems and navigation tools to ensure efficient and secure operations in Nigeria’s coastal and riverine areas.
Additionally, the EFCC requires high-speed aircraft, such as lightweight planes and helicopters, to facilitate rapid deployment of personnel and resources across the country. These aircraft would not only improve operational response times but also enhance surveillance capabilities, enabling the agency to track suspects and assets across vast distances effectively.
Beyond transportation, the EFCC must prioritize permanent headquarters and regional offices equipped with modern facilities. These should include advanced forensic laboratories for evidence analysis, secure evidence storage rooms, and IT hubs for data management and intelligence gathering. The management of confiscated assets must also be upgraded. The agency requires high-security warehouses for vehicles and equipment, climate-controlled vaults for storing cash and sensitive documents, and a robust digital asset management system to document, monitor, and track all confiscated items.
By addressing these critical infrastructure and transportation needs, the EFCC will significantly enhance its operational capacity and efficiency, ensuring it can carry out its mandate effectively in Nigeria’s challenging and diverse environments.
Given the increasing sophistication of financial crimes, the EFCC must invest heavily in advanced training programs and capacity-building initiatives. Collaborations with international agencies such as the FBI, INTERPOL, and Scotland Yard will enable EFCC officers to learn best practices in forensic accounting, digital asset recovery, and cybercrime detection. In-house training academies, equipped with state-of-the-art simulation facilities, should be established to prepare officers for real-world scenarios. Regular workshops on mental health and ethical training are also vital to reinforce integrity and build resilience against psychological pressures.
Security for EFCC personnel and their families must remain a top priority. Officers handling sensitive cases often face significant threats from individuals seeking to derail investigations or retaliate against the agency. Round-the-clock security for officers and emergency relocation programs for their families are necessary to ensure their safety and peace of mind. Anonymous reporting systems should also be implemented to allow officers to report threats or harassment without fear of exposure.
The National Assembly must take a proactive role in empowering the EFCC. Legislative reforms are needed to streamline asset forfeiture processes, enhance whistleblower protections, and strengthen the agency’s operational framework. Increased funding is essential for the recruitment of additional personnel, the construction of permanent facilities, and the acquisition of advanced tools and technologies. Public trust in the EFCC must also be bolstered through nationwide awareness campaigns that highlight the agency’s achievements and encourage citizens to support its efforts. Collaborations with community leaders and civil society organizations will further strengthen grassroots support for anti-corruption initiatives.
The EFCC has proven its capacity to combat corruption and recover Nigeria’s stolen wealth. However, its continued success depends on the government’s unwavering commitment to supporting its mission. By treating the EFCC as an elite institution and providing it with the necessary resources, infrastructure, and legislative backing, Nigeria can solidify its position as a nation committed to transparency, accountability, and sustainable development.
For Nigeria to earn respect on the global stage, it must address its current ranking as one of the most corrupt countries in the world. The nation’s reputation has long been tarnished by systemic corruption that affects every level of governance, from public institutions to private dealings. This must change, and the EFCC stands as the most credible vehicle to drive that transformation. Unlike the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), which, despite its over 100 years of existence, remains plagued by allegations of corruption, brutality, and human rights abuses, the EFCC has demonstrated a far greater commitment to ethical conduct and effective action against financial crimes. It is imperative to support and strengthen the EFCC to ensure that its personnel remain ethical, professional, and dedicated to the fight against corruption.
As it stands today, even members of the National Assembly would agree that the EFCC is making remarkable strides in combating corruption. Its major breakthroughs in prosecuting high-profile offenders, recovering stolen funds, and confiscating illicitly acquired properties have become a source of hope for Nigerians who long for accountability and good governance. By expanding the EFCC’s resources and solidifying its role, Nigeria can chart a new course for itself—one that aligns with the principles of good democracy and global standards of transparency.
Empowering the EFCC is not just an investment in an institution—it is an investment in Nigeria’s future. For a “New Nigeria” to emerge, built on the foundations of a thriving democracy, the EFCC must be positioned as a world-class anti-corruption agency. This means increasing salaries to reduce temptations, enhancing ethical training for its officers, and equipping the agency with modern tools and infrastructure to carry out its mandate. A strong and ethical EFCC not only protects the nation’s wealth but also builds trust between the government and its citizens, fostering a democratic system that values fairness and integrity.
The time to act is now. With your leadership, the Speaker and Senate President can transform the EFCC into the bedrock of Nigeria’s fight against corruption and the foundation of a renewed national identity. Strengthening the EFCC is not just about reducing corruption—it is about safeguarding Nigeria’s democracy, protecting its resources, and restoring its reputation both locally and on the global stage. This is an opportunity to show the world that Nigeria is committed to transparency, integrity, and accountability.
An empowered and ethical EFCC can lead the charge in reshaping Nigeria’s narrative from one of systemic corruption to one of hope, progress, and good governance. The time has come to take bold and decisive action to ensure that the EFCC is equipped to meet the challenges of the future, support a thriving democracy, and enhance Nigeria’s standing in the international community. Let this be the moment where your leadership paves the way for a “New Nigeria” that upholds justice, respects human rights, and achieves greatness through ethical and effective governance.
[OPINION] Governors of Nigeria, Unite for Change: Demand State Police to Protect Lives Like That of Dr. Murtala Sale Dandashire - John Egbeazien Oshodi
Admin![[OPINION] Governors of Nigeria, Unite for Change: Demand State Police to Protect Lives Like That of Dr. Murtala Sale Dandashire - John Egbeazien Oshodi](/media/k2/items/cache/6bdef7d525d3973e04bb0973558cc6c8_S.jpg)
The tragic story of Dr. Murtala Sale Dandashire, a young and brilliant doctor, stands as a harrowing symbol of the ongoing insecurity ravaging Nigeria. Dr. Dandashire, a distinguished graduate of Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, and the recipient of 13 academic awards, was struck by a bullet while tending to patients at the General Hospital in Kankara, Katsina State. His life, once filled with promise and purpose, now hangs in the balance as he battles for survival. This horrifying event is not just a singular tragedy but a devastating indictment of a system that has failed to protect its citizens, especially those who dedicate their lives to serving others.
Governors of Nigeria, this is your moment. This is your opportunity to rise above political distractions and bureaucratic delays to demand immediate action. The centralized policing structure has proven to be a monumental failure, incapable of addressing the complex and localized security challenges that plague our nation. The time for debate and delay is over. The time for decisive, collective action is now.
A Shocking Attack on a Place of Healing
Dr. Dandashire was doing what he had sworn to do: save lives. In the very place where people come to find refuge and care, he became a victim of the violence that has permeated every corner of this country. Hospitals, once sanctuaries of hope and healing, have now become battlegrounds. This attack is not just an assault on one man—it is an assault on the very fabric of our society. It sends a chilling message to every doctor, nurse, and healthcare worker: even in the act of saving lives, your own life is not safe.
Imagine the fear and chaos that gripped the hospital that fateful evening. Patients, families, and staff watched in horror as a man who had dedicated himself to healing was struck down in his place of work. The psychological toll of such an event is immeasurable, not only on those who witnessed it but on the entire healthcare community. How can we expect our medical professionals to stay and serve in a country where their safety is not guaranteed?
The Overwhelming Failure of Centralized
Policing
This tragedy is yet another stark reminder that the centralized policing system is broken beyond repair. The Nigeria Police Force, with its approximately 370,000 officers, is tasked with securing a nation of over 200 million people. This sheer imbalance alone renders the system ineffective, but the problem runs deeper. The centralized structure is rigid, unresponsive, and disconnected from the unique needs of individual communities.
Governors, you know the truth: the federal government’s grip on policing is not about protecting Nigerians. It is about protecting their power. The Inspector General of Police (IGP) and the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force are reluctant to relinquish control, even as the system crumbles under the weight of its inefficiency. But Nigeria is too vast, too diverse, and too complex to be governed by a one-size-fits-all policing model. This outdated system is failing, and the cost of its failure is measured in human lives.
A United Front: The Power of the Governors
Governors across Nigeria have demonstrated a growing consensus on the urgent need for state police, recognizing it as the most viable solution to the country’s worsening security crisis. Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State recently delivered a compelling argument for decentralization, highlighting the inadequacies of the current system. He stated:
“Knowing full well that we have a lot of ungoverned spaces in Nigeria, and also that we have a lot of deficits in terms of number of boots on ground… the establishment of state police in Nigeria is the way forward toward addressing the problem of insecurity in our own country.”
This unified agreement among governors reflects a collective understanding that the current centralized policing system cannot adequately address the diverse and localized security challenges in Nigeria. Back in February 2024, the federal government and the National Economic Council (NEC) requested states to submit detailed plans for implementing state police. By March, 16 states had submitted their proposals, and now all 36 states have reportedly completed the process. The House of Representatives is also deliberating a legislative bill to amend the 1999 Constitution to pave the way for state police.
The support for state police extends beyond governors to ethnic organizations such as Afenifere, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, PANDEF, and the Middle Belt Forum, as well as political bodies like the PDP Governors Forum and the Northern Governors Forum (NGF). These groups have all called for immediate action, emphasizing that a decentralized policing system is critical to addressing the nation’s escalating insecurity.
Governors, you are not powerless. Together, you represent the collective will of the people and hold the political, moral, and practical authority to demand this change. The safety of your citizens depends on your ability to lead with courage and determination. State police is not just about combating insecurity; it is about rebuilding trust in governance. By standing together and demanding its implementation, you affirm to your people that their safety is your top priority. This issue transcends regional or partisan lines—it is a matter of national survival.
The people are watching, and the future of Nigeria rests on your ability to act decisively. United, you can push for the establishment of state police and set the nation on a path toward a more secure and just society. The time for action is now.
State Police: A Necessity, Not an Option
A decentralized policing system would transform the security landscape of Nigeria. State police would allow each state to design and implement security strategies tailored to its unique challenges. It would enable faster response times, better community engagement, and more effective crime prevention. Specialized units within state police forces could protect critical institutions like hospitals and schools, ensuring that tragedies like the one in Kankara never happen again.
Critics may argue that state police could be abused by governors, but these concerns should not paralyze us into inaction. Safeguards can be built into the system to ensure accountability, such as independent oversight bodies and clear operational guidelines. The fear of abuse cannot outweigh the pressing need for reform. The current centralized system is already a colossal failure, and its continued existence is costing lives every day.
A Moral Obligation to Act
Governors, the blood of Dr. Dandashire and countless other victims is a call to action. You must rise above the reluctance and resistance of the federal government. You must confront the IGP and the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force with the undeniable truth: their centralized control is killing Nigerians. The people are looking to you for leadership, for courage, and for action.
This is not just about protecting healthcare workers or securing hospitals. It is about creating a nation where every citizen can feel safe, where families can live without fear, and where professionals like Dr. Dandashire can serve without risking their lives.
The Time for Action Is Now
Governors, history will judge you not by your words but by your actions. This is your moment to lead, to demand state police, and to secure the future of Nigeria. The federal government has delayed long enough. The centralized policing system is a relic of the past, and its continued existence is a betrayal of the Nigerian people.
Dr. Dandashire’s life, whether it ends in tragedy or recovery, must not be in vain. His story is a rallying cry for change, a call for a united front among governors to demand the decentralization of policing. You have the power to shape the future, to protect your citizens, and to honor the sacrifices of those who have paid the ultimate price for our failures.
![[OPINION] Cosmic Events Amidst Mundane Pressures - Okey Ikechukwu](/media/k2/items/cache/2c36bc16f342e898d3aa15f94917c8fb_S.jpg)
As controversies rage over Emir Sanusi’s remarks about his resolve not to help the Tinubu government, as many people frown at the new inflation figures announced by the National Bureau of Statistics, as state governors strike a tentative agreement with The Presidency on tax reforms, and as the US is palpitating under a yet-to-be-inaugurated Trump government, wild fires are on rampage in many places. In addition, there are ongoing events in outer space that would give far greater cause for worry, if only more people knew about them.
Concerning the 2025 US wildfires, the impact on Los Angeles has been particularly devastating; with significant loss of life and property. The situation is still fluid as I write. Firefighters battling infernos on all fronts. The fires just keep spreading rapidly and somewhat unpredictably. Look at California. Look at Riverside, San Bernardino, and Ventura. There are other states with significant impacts, of course. Places like Arizona, Colorado, and New Mexico have also experienced wildfires in 2025.
While it is true that containment efforts are progressing steadily, it is also true that strong winds are expected to pose challenges in the coming days. Many residents remain displaced due to mandatory evacuation orders. Many organizations and individuals are providing assistance to those affected by the fires. But more hands are needed. More that the foregoing, the helplessness of a presumably sophisticated and science and technology governed world with AI capacities is shockingly obvious.
As for the cosmic events hinted at in our opening paragraph, much has been going on in the cosmos that we know very little about. On October 5, last year it was said on this page: “We now have a second moon … merrily orbiting the earth …But it is not round. It is not big either. We would most probably not have seen it, or known about it, but for the advances in astronomy and related sciences. Strictly speaking, this celestial wayfarer is an asteroid, suspected to have gotten here from a set of asteroids that are less than 200 million kilometres away from us”.
Coming now to the present, that is going beyond the matter of the new moon mentioned last year, it is now no news that the heavens will be adazzle with a rare planetary alignment in a few days’ time. The planets Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Neptune, Uranus, and Mercury will all be “lined up” in the Elliptic, in a way that they have not done for a long time now. In a few days’ time.
For a planetary alignment to occur, three or more planets must gather closely on the same side of the Sun. But it is called, or considered, a conjunction when this happens with only two planets. And what we are going to witness is not a conjunction of two planets, but a confluence of eight!
Curiously, the year 2025 is replete with multiple planetary alignments. From the January 21 spectacle to the Main Event of January 25. Then there is the one of February 28. Come April i5, there would be a morning alignment of Neptune, Mercury, Saturn and Venus. And August 11 will give us yet another morning alignment of Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, Uranus, Neptune and Saturn! Why? Yes, why?
If we have coming the rare, and much talked about, alignment of January 25, why is there another one preceding it by just three days? What is the buildup about? Why after the January 21 large alignment of Mars, Jupiter, Uranus, Neptune, Venus, and Saturn? Is there any special significance, scientific or otherwise, attached to these planetary alignments? What is this planetary alignment overload for 2025?
Recall that the official view when the asteroid, named Apophis, approached and then sped past the earth last year was that it posed no threat to life here on earth. This was a sensible thing to say, because the asteroid actually did not impact our planet or bother anyone in any way that one could point to. But what if it did, but in ways we could not point to physically?
That the asteroid did not physically impact the earth is not the same thing as saying that its presence and proximity, no matter how temporary, could not have “possibly” had some effects on life on earth? And to think that Apophis is actually the name of the Egyptian god of Chaos! How comforting is that?
In the aforementioned piece on the earth’s new moon of last year, it was said: “The tides we experience in all bodies of water on earth are caused by the gravitational pull of the Moon and Sun. At the Bay of Fundy in Canada, where you have the biggest tide in the world, the difference between low and high tide could be as much as 16.3 metres. But leaving all that, and coming to the simple matter of tides and what causes them, we should simply note that there won’t be high and low tides if there was no moon”.
So, consider this view in both scientific and quasi scientific circles, to wit: “The alignment of several planets is believed to amplify the energies of these planets, prompting changes, introspection, opportunity, and transformation across the globe and across all zodiac signs”. So, what does the coming cosmic spectacle portend?
Rare planetary alignments have been historically linked with significant energy shifts; with implications for people’s emotions, political and social transformations, changes in the physical environment, upheavals in nature, new twists in relationships and possible global changes.
That Yahoo News report of July 30, 2024, about a killer asteroid heading towards the earth, with the title, “Preparations Underway as ‘Planet Killer’ Asteroid, the Size of Cruise Ship, Nears Earth”, made many people to think of a looming disaster. The asteroid would have completely destroyed a big country in one fell swoop if it struck land. It would have triggered floods and tsunamis across beaches and coastal cities all over the world if it struck the ocean instead of land.
And this asteroid, which was first discovered 20 years ago, is expected to pass by the earth again in 2029; and then again in 2036. What will it bring then? Will come any closer to the earth then? Will it, perhaps, impact eh earth; even if partially? We do not know.
Think back to the recent the solar eclipse that attracted less attention than one believed it should have. It came and went. An innocuous news time, no doubt. It made headlines in random and recondite journals of related sciences and nothing more.
Yet that eclipse along with a comet called the Devil Comet by scientists and astronomers. The latter was visible during the eclipse. Why such a name? Yes, why would anyone call a comet Devil Comet within the domain of science and not science fiction or witchcraft? And is it true that astronomers have also recently discovered, or at least are strongly speculating about, another planet within our solar system? Just asking; even though the answer is out there in the public domain.
Because we are all very busy grubbing in mud and sand, like worms, unwilling or unable to raise our heads and think or see more clearly, we may be facing grave dangers from intergalactic radiation that we are totally unaware. And these dangers may just be lurking or prancing all over the place, and in ways, in ways that we are not capable of fathoming.
Since we are living in a world, universe and comic environment that has long since been scientifically confirmed to be nothing more than a network of interconnected radiations, it is time we stopped taking our physicality more seriously that we ought to. Truth is: We cannot really say for sure what the effects of new heavenly bodies on earth and its magnetic field might be.
If we are to take astrologers and seers seriously and consider interplanetary alignments to be moments of amplified energy in our cosmic environment, then we must go further with them and say that these alignments are also often linked with transformations, innovations, and heightened intuitive insights and much more. If January 2025 will bring intense shifts, then with Venus and Mars playing key roles, as the planet of love, and the planet of passion, respectively – setting the stage for self-revelations of various sorts across all spheres.
It is a matter of record that significant interplanetary alignments had coincided in the past with some major global or cultural shifts, including scientific breakthroughs and artistic renaissances; such that they are often seen as heralds of change. But what time of change are we talking about here?
Which brings us to Climate change, which was discussed in he earlier mentioned article. We cannot stop pointing out the fact the 2021 Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change’s Sixth Assessment “gave clear evidence of a steady increase in rainfall in some regions of the world”. Here in Nigeria, no one could explain the type of extended rainy season we experienced last year.
We know that industrial activities lead to rising global temperatures, heat waves, and other climatic and environmental problems. Last June, alone some parts of Europe and Canda faced devastation from wildfires. This year worse fires are gulping up sophisticated cities and technologically stable neighbourhoods.
If the world’s glaciers lost their ice at the rate of 267 billion tonnes per annum, between 2000 and 2019, what dos that say about the overall temperature of the earth and the rate of global warming? With global ice melting very rapidly and increasing sea levels worldwide, will the flooding of coastal cities not be on the increase? Are some earthquakes and volcanic eruptions not traceable to ecologically disruptive human activities?
With rising temperatures leading to a warmer atmosphere and the latter retaining more water vapour and delivering higher levels of rainfall, should we expect htat all would be well.
One thing is clear: we no longer live in a normal world. we no longer live in the cosmic environment of the past. New celestial visitors are coming around here rather too frequently for us to continue to take things for granted. There seems to be a direct connection between the increasing events in our immediate cosmic environment and the increasing confusion and turmoil in human affairs all over the world today.
We shall take up these matters in the new Dailogue Series, to be announced soon.
More...
![[OPINION] Understanding the changed loyalties between Tinubu and Sanusi - Emmanuel Aziken](/media/k2/items/cache/250a4437d41c474f0c6bf988b2b738fd_XS.jpg)
It was the founding chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, Chief Chekwas Okorie who in 2003 summarised the crisis that followed the kidnapping of Governor Chris Ngige by his erstwhile Anambra godfathers as what happens when thieves come to share their loot.
Some would, however, think it inappropriate to condense the crisis between President Bola Tinubu and his erstwhile royal enabler, Emir Muhammadu Sanusi in the same gutter context.
One can then use the phrase of the English playwright and poet, William Congreve. In his 1697 play, The Mourning Bride, he wrote that “hell hath no fury like a woman scorned.”
Indeed, the Federal Government’s response on Thursday to the criticism of its policies by Emir Sanusi reflected the truth about the falling out between two former political lovers.
Information minister Mohammed Idris in his reaction pointed to the changed dynamics between the emir and the Tinubu government when he referred to “changed loyalties of the emir”.
He spoke against the background of the once fraternal relationship that went back two administrations and 12 years. That was when Sanusi as governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN helped in damaging the Goodluck Jonathan administration with claims that turned out to be false.
The allegation that $20 billion from oil sales went missing was celebrated by the then opposition even when forensic audit showed that no money in that context was missing.
When Sanusi was fired as Central Bank governor, Lai Mohammed, spokesman of the APC claimed it was a smokescreen to cover up the ‘scandal.’
Sanusi was fired when he was attending an international conference in Niger Republic. Remarkably when he returned, he flew over Kano, his birth place, Abuja which was his residence to Lagos into the waiting hands of the opposition leaders in Lagos.
As fate would have it, within a year of his dismissal from the CBN the stool of the emir of Kano became vacant. Against the insistence of Kano kingmakers who wanted Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero, pressure was mounted on the Rabiu Kwankwaso government in Kano to enthrone Sanusi.
Sanusi had been reported as having two ambitions; to be president of Nigeria and emir of Kano. The royal ambition it was claimed was his preference.
Remarkably, another man who had a similar ambition to be president of Nigeria was Bola Tinubu. It was perhaps out of wisdom that Tinubu in the heat of the intrigues to choose a new emir of Kano in 2014 relocated to Kano and pulled the levers for Sanusi.
It was politically shrewd for Tinubu to push for Sanusi to become emir; at least by that act, he had removed a possible contender for the presidency.
Even more, the emergence of Sanusi was also a way of shaming President Jonathan. The man he, Jonathan sacked had been given an even more regal position.
So when Minister Idris spoke of loyalties one could well understand the story of Sanusi and the Tinubu government.
The loyalties began to change after Kwankwaso left office. His successor, Dr Umar Ganduje on account of serial governance issues became embroiled with Emir Sanusi.
It was no secret that both men barely tolerated themselves and after his re-election as governor in 2019, the primary policy of Ganduje in government appeared to be cutting Sanusi’s wings. Indeed, even before he was sworn in for the second term, the proposal to split the Kano emirate emerged in May 2019.
That was apparently not enough. In March 2020, Governor Ganduje deposed Sanusi as the emir of Kano.
By that time, calculations for the 2023 presidential election were already well advanced. Tinubu was already building a solid relationship with Ganduje. The then Kano governor like Senator Kashim Shettima were about the most visible canvassers for the Tinubu project in the North.
It was as such not surprising that in the face of the crisis with Sanusi that Tinubu was restrained in a public reproach of Ganduje.
While Ganduje was successful in the short term in removing Sanusi as emir, his political capacity in standing up to his erstwhile political leader, Kwankwaso failed as he was unable to pass the governorship to his chosen successor in the 2023 election.
Kwankwaso’s choice, the New Nigeria Peoples Party, NNPP’s Abba Yusuf had in his election manifesto promised to restore Sanusi as emir. He promptly fulfilled his promise and in a jiffy, Sanusi was restored and the legacy of Ganduje in destroying the Kano emirate as he met it was restored.
So, given the fact that what was taken from him was restored by the NNPP it is no brainer for anyone to understand the information minister’s claim of Sanusi’s changed loyalty.
Sanusi’s change of loyalties could also be understood from the circumstances of his close friend, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, the immediate past governor of Kaduna State. El-Rufai was also another person who helped Tinubu to power but who was shockingly thrown out as the government was formed.
When he was dethroned, El-Rufai was the one who travelled to Nasarawa State to bring Sanusi from the rustic confined to by Ganduje. El-Rufai was helpful in resettling the stylish monarch to a chic life in Lagos.
Whatever, the information minister was on point on the changed loyalties. But how the changed loyalties between Sanusi and Tinubu affect the generality of Nigerians is of little essence. What was between them was a collaboration against Jonathan. When that was finished they fell apart as more personal political issues arose.
[OPINION] Trump’s second term and potential impacts on bilateral relations with Nigeria - Folawiyo Kareem Olajoku
Admin![[OPINION] Trump’s second term and potential impacts on bilateral relations with Nigeria - Folawiyo Kareem Olajoku](/media/k2/items/cache/61b74522d2bd2e94333f6a7cb341874b_XS.jpg)
Donald Trump’s ascension to the 47th President of the United States has sparked intense interest globally, with Nigeria being no exception. As Trump assumes office, Nigerians are eager to understand the potential implications of his presidency on their nation.
Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has already extended congratulations to Trump, expressing his trust that the US president will bring the world closer to peace and prosperity. This sentiment is shared by the Nigerian government, which has acknowledged the significant influence of the US on global affairs.
Historically, US-Nigeria relations have fluctuated depending on the ruling party in the US. During Republican administrations, relations have been characterized by targeted engagement and interests, with a focus on trade and investment. In contrast, Democratic administrations have prioritized democracy, human rights, and development aid.
Under Trump’s first presidency, Nigeria benefited from increased military and counterterrorism support, which could continue under his new administration.
On the economic front, Trump’s transactional approach to foreign policy may lead to increased trade and investment between the US and Nigeria, particularly in sectors like oil and gas. Nevertheless, his administration’s stance on climate change and global health may have far-reaching consequences for Nigeria’s development.
In the realm of global politics, Trump’s presidency may lead to a shift in the dynamics of international relations, with potential implications for Nigeria’s position within the global community. As the world navigates this new landscape, Nigerians will be watching closely to see how Trump’s administration will engage with their nation.
Ultimately, the impact of Trump’s presidency on Nigeria will depend on various factors, including his administration’s policies, the response of the Nigerian government, and the evolving global context. As the situation unfolds, one thing is certain – the relationship between Nigeria and the US under Trump’s leadership will be closely scrutinised.
Folawiyo Kareem Olajoku, a governance, policy, and strategy professional, can be contacted via folawiyo@cidstudies.com
![[OPINION] Emir Sanusi’s Quid Pro Quo for His Friends Turned Fiends - Farooq A. Kperogi](/media/k2/items/cache/fe7dffb18388cdcda7da81577a3557ef_XS.jpg)
Emir of Kano Muhammadu Sanusi II on Wednesday became an involuntary, if narcissistic and self-important, humorist who embodied the age-old wisecrack that says when you put a crown on a clown, he turns the palace into a circus and reduces royalty to a comedy show.
At the 21st Memorial Lecture of Chief Gani Fawehinmi in Lagos, he provoked a burst of hearty laughter in me when he said although he endorses the soul-crushing economic reforms of his “friends” in the Tinubu administration, he wouldn’t defend those “reforms” because the people in the administration have failed to requite his friendship. You can’t make this stuff up!
“I have chosen not to speak on the economy, or reforms or to explain anything because if I explain it, it will help this government,” he said. “But I don’t want to help this government. They are my friends, but if they don’t behave like friends, I won’t behave like a friend.”
That is the literal characterization of what’s called quid pro quo, which is Latin for “this for that,” “something for something,” or a “favor for a favor.” In colloquial English, it’s called "You scratch my back, I'll scratch yours."
When an adult of Sanusi’s learning, symbolic stature, and social status publicly, even if slyly, solicits a quid pro quo of you-scratch-my-back, I'll-scratch-yours with a government whose suffocating policies he approves, the act inspires laughter because it is uncharacteristically juvenile and desperate.
Nonetheless, we need to unpack the fallacies and underlying assumptions in Sanusi’s absurdly self-conceited egotism.
He said, “I can give a few points here about what we are going through and how it was predictable and avoidable. But I am not going to do that.”
Well, he has actually done that multiple times in the past. In fact, he did it during the very speech where he claimed he wouldn’t.
By saying, “What we are going through today is at least, in part, a necessary consequence of decades of irresponsible management. People were warning that if we continued the way that we were going, this is how we would end up, but they refused to listen,” he effectively did what exactly he said he wouldn’t do.
I can predict with almost mathematical precision what Sanusi will say tomorrow in defense of Tinubu’s brutally punishing “reforms” because Sanusi has a limited, predictable repertoire of apologetics for the neoliberal theology he has been a zealous evangelist for since at least 2011.
Shortly after Tinubu took over power, for instance, he visited the Presidential Villa and was ecstatic, even giddy, in his extolments for Tinubu’s unilateral, precipitous, and ill-advised removal of subsidies, which inaugurated the ongoing unbearable torment in the land.
His response to State House correspondents’ questions about the visit is worth reproducing at length:
“We’ve been friends since his first term as governor of Lagos State when I was a banker. And I have not seen him since the elections…. So, the first reason [for my visit] was to come and congratulate him formally.
“But also, I wear many caps. I wear the cap of an economist, so I came to thank him for the steps he has taken to put this economy on course. As you know, many of the issues that we have been talking about—eh, the subsidy that has caused a hemorrhage on the fiscus, the multiple exchange rate regimes, and so on.
“These are issues that I have personally been talking about for a long time, and I am happy that on his very first day, he has addressed these issues and the markets are happy. And it is important [that] when the government does the right thing for us to give them feedback. [It’s] not always when they do the wrong thing that you complain.”
By the end of 2023 when the injurious consequences of the double whammy of subsidy removal and currency devaluation began to take shape and there were fears that mass hunger and disillusionment could spark social and communal convulsions, Sanusi came to the defense of the Tinubu administration with all he had.
“It’s injustice for anyone to blame the Tinubu administration for the current economic hardship because there is no other alternative than the removal of the fuel subsidy,” Sanusi said in a widely shared article he reportedly wrote in a WhatsApp group. “After all, Nigeria cannot even afford to pay the subsidy.”
He said the downward spiral in the economy was the direct consequence of Muhammadu Buhari’s stubborn refusal to heed his counsel to “firmly and unequivocally eliminate fuel subsidies,” not Tinubu’s removal of subsidies. It’s counterfactual logic, but Sanusi isn’t known to deploy the resources of logic, evidence, or even basic common sense when he evangelizes the false gospel of neoliberal salvation.
His solution to the ruthless decimation of the poor and the hollowing out of the middle class was for people to learn to live within their means and for economically well-off people who feel so inclined to help people who are less fortunate than they are. He freed the government of any obligation to cut waste and to tend to the needs of a badly hurting country.
“I can only plead with the people to endure the hardship, and those who have the means to help the downtrodden should do so,” he said. “I am also pleading with commoners to live according to their earnings; we must not peg our lives above our earnings in this difficult situation where people are looking for what to eat.”
Never mind that the poor are writhing in pain not because they are living above their earnings but because their little earnings have lost their worth because of the policies he advocated.
So, what more could Sanusi possibly say in defense of the cruel policies of his “friends” who have turned to his “fiends” than he has already said?
That’s why his sneaky quid-pro-quo proposition to the Tinubu administration is so irresistibly hilarious in its sterile juvenility. He has by now exhausted his entire armory of neoliberal apologetics.
He already said the “markets are happy” with Tinubu’s reforms and that the people whose happiness has been stolen to make the markets happy should learn to “endure the hardship.” He’s no longer useful to his friends.
The second assumption that needs to be unpacked stems from the first. And it is that Sanusi imagines himself to be some nonpareil persuasive genius whose unrivaled communicative aptitude can magically cause suffering Nigerians to forget their sorrows and mollify their anger.
He wants his friends in government to believe that he is withholding these astonishingly unparalleled swaying powers because his show of friendship to them hasn’t been reciprocated.
“They don’t even have people with pedigree that can come and explain to the people what they are doing,” he said. “I am not going to help. I started by helping, but I am not going to help. Let them come and explain to Nigerians why they are pursuing the policies that they are pursuing.”
Had I not watched the video of these remarks, I would have said these rants were the vapors of someone’s febrile and depressed imagination, falsely attributed to Sanusi.
Sanusi, by these statements, is passing himself off as someone “with pedigree” who, if his friendship were requited, can “come and explain to the people” why they are starving and dying because of economic “reforms,” and the people would be calm, understanding, and accept their deaths by instalment with equanimity and even gratitude. Such delusion of grandeur! Such entertainingly comical megalomania!
But what is Sanusi’s record in this business of telling people who are dying that their death is inevitable, that the happiness of the markets is more important than the wellbeing of the people?
In 2012, he was one of the major architects and defenders of the removal of petrol and other subsidies. He clashed with human rights activists like Femi Falana (whose concerns about the cost of subsidy removal on the poor Sanusi infamously dismissed as “not an economic argument.”)
He also clashed with scholars such as the late Pius Adesanmi who worried about the implication of high petrol price on generators, which is the main source of electricity for the poor. Sanusi dismissed this concern with the false claim that generators run on diesel, not petrol.
Yet, with all his “pedigree” and unmatched persuasive powers (the kind he is supposedly withholding from his “friends”), he failed to dissuade the masses of the people from flooding the streets in the #OccupyNigeria protests.
The truth about Sanusi, as I have repeatedly pointed out, is that he is a self-loving sadist who actually derives delight from the misery of the masses. His only grouse with the Tinubu administration is that it is undermining the emirship he invested princely sums to recapture through massive financial contributions to Governor Abba Kabiru Yusuf’s election.
So, the “quo” in his wily, unstated, but nonetheless evident quid-pro-quo suggestion was for the Tinubu administration to withdraw its seeming support for former Emir Aminu Ado Bayero. Then he will transform into a propagandist to defend and justify your suffering. But what Nigerians want is a relief from their hardship, not a callous justification for why they must endure it.
![[OPINION] Politicians and Independence of Electoral Umpires - Paul Ejime](/media/k2/items/cache/60d18978719ae3e691195345aa607c09_XS.jpg)
Most African countries make a ritual of adding the word “Independent” or “Autonomous” to the name of their electoral commissions. In reality, their election umpires are anything but, even where the national constitution guarantees the so-called independence.
The “indefinite suspension” of Madam Davidetta Browne-Lansanah, Chairperson of the National Elections Commission (NEC) by Liberia’s President Joseph Boakai over actions deemed “disruptive to public order and stability,” is the latest case in point.
According to an Executive Mansion statement on 15 January 2024, her suspension follows an investigation into recent protests by aggrieved NEC workers regarding “administrative decisions taken by the NEC chairperson without proper consultation.”
Madam Browne-Lansanah was accused of “unilaterally announcing the closure of the NEC office for one month and dismissing 25 employees without the knowledge or approval of the NEC Board of Commissioners, as required by law.”
“While the committee constituted (by the Presidency) to investigate the grievances of NEC workers was actively addressing the matter, Madam Browne-Lansanah took precipitous and unilateral actions, thereby undermining the integrity and stability of the institution,” the statement said and expressed concern “that such actions could adversely impact the NEC’s ability to conduct by-elections scheduled within the next two months, while also creating a toxic working environment at the Commission.”
In administrative language, suspension for an indefinite period is a precursor to dismissal and being a civil servant, Madam Browne-Lansanah is unlikely to go public with her side of the story.
However, informed sources believe that a power tussle is at play, involving politicians within the corridors of power using some NEC insiders to undermine the authority of a woman described as “rugged, strong-willed, independent-minded” and praised locally and internationally for delivering a successful and one of Liberia’s most credible and transparent presidential and legislative elections in October 2023.
The NEC Chairperson reportedly clashed with some commissioners last year over administrative matters resulting in the dismissal of some employees for “gross insubordination.” There were protests at the NEC headquarters in Monrovia by some employees who were reportedly demanding hazard allowances from the 2023 elections.
Meanwhile, Madam Browne-Lansanah's suspension has sparked criticisms and concerns about the status of democracy in Liberia.
Describing the president’s action as “unconstitutional,” Liberia’s Rule of Law Legislative Caucus in a statement, said that “NEC’s independence, protected under the Constitution, is vital to safeguarding democracy” in the country.
“The Supreme Court of Liberia has ruled unequivocally that the suspension of tenured officers is tantamount to their removal. Such removals are constitutionally permissible only through the impeachment process, which involves, the National Legislature,” the Legislative Caucus said. By bypassing this process, the President has overstepped the boundaries of his authority, by contravening the separation of powers and undermining constitutional protections.”
It urged the “President to rescind (his) decision and allow constitutional processes to prevail,” adding: “The erosion of institutional independence risks plunging the country into uncharted territory and threatens the very essence of our democracy.”
Critics have also weighed in, calling for respect for the rule of law, especially in the run-up to crucial legislative elections, including a by-election to replace the late former warlord-cum- politician Prince Yormie Johnson of Nimba County.
Citing the recent leadership tussle in the House of Representatives and street protests that culminated in the devastating fire at the Capitol, the seat of Parliament in Monrovia, the critics allege an erosion of governance under Boakai's presidency.
The NEC was part of the 2003 Comprehensive Peace Agreement that ended Liberia’s14-year civil war. It replaced the 1986 Elections Commission as “an autonomous government institution, independent of any branch of government with powers to run elections in Liberia.”
According to Chapter 2, Section 2.1 of the New Elections Law of 2014, the NEC “shall be under the direction and management of seven (7) Commissioners appointed by the President of Liberia, who shall appoint one of them as Chairman and another as Co-Chairman. All of the appointments shall be subject to the consent of the Senate.”
Section 2.10 (c) of the same law gives the chairperson “the authority to apportion the Republic into administrative areas and assign a Commissioner to each area to oversee election activities …and advise the Commission on all decisions related to the area…”
However, it has not been smooth sailing for NEC chairpersons, Madam Browne-Lansanah being the fifth. In 2011, one of her predecessors, James Fromayan was forced to step down after being accused of bias by then-opposition leader George Weah.
The same George Weah, as President, appointed Madam Browne-Lansanah as NEC Chair in April 2020 and lost his re-election bid in the 2023 elections conducted by her.
A veteran broadcast journalist with a master’s degree in public administration and bachelor’s degrees in political science and public administration, Madam Browne-Lansanah also boasts some career experience working in the UN system before joining NEC 10 years ago as a commissioner.
She served as Co-Chair and Acting Chairperson before assuming the substantive position of Chairperson in 2020, pledging to “strengthen NEC’s core values of independence, integrity, professionalism and consistency.”
It is obvious that some politicians might have found Madam Browne-Lansanah, who was voted “Our African Hero” by Senegal-based Democracy Radio in 2024, non-compliant, in the desperate pursuit of their ambitions.
At a time when the region is grappling with the resurgence of military incursions in politics, badly run elections and three member States on the verge of quitting the 15-nation Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Liberia, Senegal and lately Ghana, had held up hope for the survival of democracy.
But adding to the growing list of occupational hazards for election umpires and their leadership is the fate of Madam Charlotte Osei, the Chairperson of Ghana’s Electoral Commission, who was replaced in 2018 under similar political but unrelated circumstances as Madam Browne-Lansanah.
In 2020, Guinea’s Electoral Commission Chair Mamadou Salif Kébé died from COVID-19 complications while conducting a referendum and elections forced on the country by President Alpha Conde, who was later deposed by the military in 2021.
Electoral umpires and their officials are expected to be above board, even though they reflect the reality of the country where they operate. They are easy targets and endure tremendous but largely unreported political pressures, including threats to their lives and the lives of their family members, from the powers that be and/or politically exposed individuals.
In a rare interview published in November 2017, Alieu Momarr Njie, Chairman of the Gambia’s Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) narrated how the Commissioners resisted pressure to change the results of the 1 December 2016 presidential election, at the risk of their lives.
Then-President Yayha Jammeh, after initially conceding defeat later changed his mind to claim victory at all costs. Njie narrated how foreign embassies came to his rescue before he fled to neighbouring Senegal until Jammeh was forced into exile in Equatorial Guinea through ECOWAS-led international intervention.
While electrical umpires/their officials are often blamed for rigged or flawed elections, politicians claim the credit for successful elections but refuse to take any responsibility when things go wrong, even though they are usually the architects of fraudulent elections.
Another striking example is the case of the late Prof Humphrey Nwosu, former Chair of Nigeria’s National Electoral Commission (NEC), who supervised the 1993 presidential election acclaimed as the freest and fairest in the country.
Up till his death last October, at age 83, the professor of political science was not considered for even the least national award.
Meanwhile, June 12, 1993, the date of the celebrated elections is observed as Democracy Day (a Public Holiday in 2024), and Chief MKO Abiola, the presumed winner of the presidential poll has been bestowed with the highest National Honour of the Grand Commander of the Federal Republic (GCFR), posthumously.
Politicians should desist from politicising public institutions such as the electoral commission; making them scapegoats or dragging them into disrepute because of their inundate ambition.
Madam Browne-Lansanah, may not be a saint, but she has brought honour to Liberia.
President Boakai owes himself, Liberia, ECOWAS and the international community that contributed to the country’s stability, a duty to exercise his hard-won mandate in line with the constitution instead of sacrificing merit and professionalism on the altar of political expediency.
**Ejime is a Global Affairs Analyst and Consultant on Peace & Security, and Governance Communications