I commiserate with the families who lost loved ones to the stampedes of recent days in Ibadan, Oyo State, Okija, Anambra State and Abuja, Federal Capital Territory (FCT). There can be no greater tragedy than for anybody to die while looking for something to eat, especially during a festive season like this. So, for those in authority at all levels, the message should be clear. But from what I have been reading in recent days, it appears some may simply be looking for scapegoats while others are playing politics with a problem that has always been with us. In the process, important lessons are ignored. If only to honour the memories of the dead, we must not waste this moment.

While ordering a probe into the tragedies, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun “warned groups and organizers of similar events to ensure the involvement of security agencies as negligence on their part is criminal and would not be overlooked…” These incidents, according to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) Director General, Zubaida Umar, who also waded in, “undermine the goodwill behind charity events, turning acts of kindness into sources of grief due to poor planning and crowd control.” The impression being unwittingly created is that these tragedies would not have occurred if the police and other security agencies as well as NEMA ‘experts’ had been involved in planning and execution. Even President Bola Tinubu seems to have bought into that narrative considering what he said during his media chat on Monday night. But is the blame game supported by empirical fact?

On 23 February this year, seven people died following a stampede during the distribution of 25kg bags of rice at a discounted price of N10,000 by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) in Lagos. Aside the fact that the NCS is a quango whose personnel bear arms, policemen were also at their zonal headquarters in Yaba when the stampede occurred. “Unforeseen challenges arose when we ran out of stock and announced the continuation of the exercise the following day, leading to a regrettable outcome,” spokesperson for the service, Abdullahi Maiwada, explained after the incident. “The crowd became desperate and charged through our barricades in search of rice bags inside emptied containers. In the stampede that ensued, some fatalities and injuries were regrettably recorded.”

A month later, two female students at the Nasarawa State University in Keffi, also died while 17 other students were injured following a stampede inside a hall where bags of rice were kept. Security personnel at the scene were reportedly ‘overpowered’. At the instance of Governor Abdullahi Sule, each tertiary school student in the State was to receive two 7.5kg bags of rice and N5,000 to cushion the effect of the difficult times in the country. “After our arrangement for the distribution of palliatives to the students that was to be held at the university’s convocation square, they (students) suddenly arrived at the venue in their numbers and overpowered security,” the Nasarawa State Students Association national president, Yunusa Yusuf Baduku, explained. “They (the students) broke through the gate into the hall where the bags of rice were to be shared. Unfortunately, most of our female students sustained injuries. We rushed several students to the school clinic and Federal Medical Centre Keffi. I learned that two female students died from suffocation.”

Given the foregoing, the self-righteous fixation about ‘criminal negligence’ on the part of organisers of these events may not be accurate. And it could be counterproductive. Since I arrived Ilorin last Saturday for the Christmas holiday, I have found it difficult to sleep well as I reflect on where I would probably be now if God had not intervened on behalf of our church three weeks ago when we organised a similar programme. Therefore, as much as I share in the grieve of the bereaved families, I also sympathise with the organisers of these events who must now be going through trauma. So, before I conclude with my take on these tragedies, I seek the indulgence of readers to share a personal experience.

The Everlasting Arms Parish (TEAP) of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), where I worship in Abuja, features an annual programme that supports the less fortunate with gifts of food items and household wares during the Christmas period. Called ‘Tabitha Tent’, it was initiated by Pastor Chinedu Ezekwesili in 2007 and continues with his successor, Evaristus Azodoh. Dependent on donations from church members (with some members also using their networks to get external support), the event is held on the first Saturday in December every year. While my wife and I had been actively involved from the beginning, Pastor Azodoh raised the stakes in 2019 by appointing me chairman of the organising committee. Our responsibilities include raising funds, procuring essential foodstuffs and coordinating the programme. I have able lieutenants in Modupe Ogundimu, the Lagos Zonal Director, National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), Elizabeth Ekpenyong, Director of Strategic Programmes, Debt Management Office (DMO) Abuja, Funke Abegunde, a teacher at the American International School, Abuja and Bello Bissalla, Managing Director/CEO, Beltina Printing Press.

Being both a retired army Colonel and a medical doctor (with his wife also a medical doctor), Pastor Azodoh ensured we had security and medical teams in place for the programme every year. Despite that, we have had situations of some participants going home with bruises and other minor injuries after being treated by our team of medical personal led by Dr Rosemary Nwokorie, a consultant anaesthesiologist and Chairman Medical Advisory Committee (CMAC), Asokoro General Hospital and Bayo Olakareem, a pharmacist. Last year, a woman broke her arm in the struggle at the gate. After the preliminary intervention by our medical team, I asked my driver to take her to the hospital with N50,000 as a deposit. Before they left the church premises, the woman asked to be given the money and just taken home. When all entreaties for her to be taken to the hospital proved futile, we acted as she demanded. She was around three weeks ago for this year’s edition and told us she had spent a fraction of the money to heal the arm through traditional methods. That is the kind of poverty you deal with at these charity programmes.

On Saturday, 7th December, our medical team was on ground and for security, we had ten policemen and another ten men from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to support them. These 20 official security people were joined by our 13 in-house security personnel (we have an expansive compound that also hosts both primary and secondary schools) and several Ministers/Workers. In the days preceding the event, as it was the practice every year, we (in the organising committee) also fasted and prayed together. On D-Day, we believed we were well covered despite the thousands who had camped outside our church premises from Friday 6th December—24 hours before the programme.

The programme started by 8am with beneficiaries (the number we could cater for) allowed entrance into the premises through a guided process once they collected the accreditation tags. Everything went well and by 10.30am we had concluded the sharing of foodstuffs to as many as 1,300 people – only clothing materials and shoes were left. By our arrangement, beneficiaries had to remain inside the church premises so that they could all leave at the same time since the number of people outside was almost three times the number inside. When we felt our assignment was completed, we asked the security personnel to open the two gates to allow beneficiaries to exit with their packs. That was when all hell broke loose.

The moment the gates were opened, the thousands of people outside rushed in. And that was the point of divine intervention. For some inexplicable reason, the people inside practically froze. Likewise with all the security men who became mere onlookers. That was how we were saved from what could have been a tragedy. If those inside had attempted moving out while those outside rushed in, as it almost always happens on such occasions, many lives would have been lost. Although Pastor Azodoh was evidently shaken by what we witnessed, I had a delayed reaction. It was only after the Ibadan tragedy that I began to ruminate on what could have happened at Tabitha Tent 2024!

The first lesson I take from ‘Tabitha Tent’ every year is how the level of desperation in our society continues to rise and the need for concerted efforts to deal with food insecurity for millions of our people. This is a programme that we do not advertise yet huge crowds turn up every year. Packs contain little more than rice, beans and garri (vegetable oil has disappeared from our list in the last two years) that would last no more than two weeks at most. Yet people come from as far as Nasarawa and Plateau States. Since they are mostly women, another story on its own, many come with their children. They sleep on bare ground outside the church premises and endure the scorching sun the next day. Meanwhile, some still go home empty-handed because the turn-out almost always exceeded our provision—even when we were catering for about 5,000 people.

Now to the critical issues. If you remove his usual divisive slant, the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) Executive Director, Prof Ishaq Akintola, is right to demand the immediate and unconditional release of those arrested over the Ibadan disaster. “Queen Naomi Silekunola in particular is well known for her philanthropic activities and nobody in his or her right mind will assume that she deliberately planned a massacre,” Akintola wrote following her arraignment along with two others on a four-count charge of conspiracy, acceleration of death, negligent acts causing harm, and failure to provide adequate security and medical facilities. “By the same token, the arrest of the principal of Islamic High School, Orita Bashorun, Ibadan, was quite unnecessary because the alumni of that school have confirmed that the venue was approved by the Oyo State Ministry of Education and not by the principal acting unilaterally.”

The point for me is that in a nation where there is no safety net for the poor by the government at any level, criminalising charity work is unconscionable. How the programmes should be organized can be debated but it would be catastrophic if public-spirited individuals and corporate bodies were discouraged from supporting such programmes. That can easily happen with the way some officials are carrying on about seeking government permits bla bla bla. But there are also lessons that organisers of these charity programmes should take onboard going forward. As I wrote in my March column, ‘The Stampede for Food to Eat’ (https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2024/03/28/the-stampede-for-food-to-eat/), there is a lot we can all learn from the ‘Al-Habibiyyah Society Food Programme’ through which Imam Fuad Adeyemi has, for almost two decades, been feeding thousands of people every day in Abuja during Ramadan, in a flawless manner. The secret is that the Imam deploys several unarmed volunteers from the elite of our society because they can attest to his integrity. If you unleash too many arms-bearing security personnel to confront an army of hungry and desperate people where food is being shared, as is being suggested, you are inviting trouble. But we must also rethink the idea of a safety net for the poor beyond ‘palliatives’ that do not address the challenge of hunger in a sustainable manner.

Many have suggested that empowering the people through vocational training and providing funds for small scale businesses is the way to go for philanthropic organisations. I subscribe to the idea. But it is also not as easy as they imagine in a nation where not only are many people lazy but also have an entitled mentality. Four years ago, Pastor Azodoh expanded the mandate of ‘Tabitha Tent’ to include empowerment. We were to organize training programmes and give out loans to support small businesses. The church provided a tidy amount as seed money. I delegated Bissalla to handle that assignment. We would spend a lot of money to organize training programmes, invite resource people and at the end, only a few people would turn up. But when we ask for proposals on viable ideas that could be supported with soft loans, we would receive hundreds of applications, each requesting for millions of Naira “to do business”!

While investigations continue on the stampedes that claimed dozens of lives in Ibadan, Okija and Abuja, government agencies must be ready to provide the support needed to individuals and organizations carrying out acts of charity. They should not scare them away. Based on the demography of the casualties in the three recent tragedies, it is evident that victims are mostly women and children—the most vulnerable of any society. Considering that Nigeria’s population is predominantly youth based, there must be a deliberate policy to identify and implement empowerment initiatives that directly impact their lives and communities. But as a matter of urgency, the government must also address the root causes of the kind of poverty that pushes our people to the point of animalistic desperation.

I wish all my readers the compliment of this glorious season.

There are numerous reasons why we celebrate or mark dates: they are usually dates to remember, especially for good. In this column today, our focus is on two illustrious sons of Ekiti - Professor Niyi Osundare and the governor of the state, His Excellency Biodun Oyebanji.

On Wednesday, 11th December, 2024, all roads led to the English Department, Faculty of Arts of the premier university, the University of Ibadan and the reason for the season, as they say, was the Poet Laureate, Professor Niyi Osundare. Teachers, friends, colleagues, students, comrades as well as family and well-wishers all gathered to mark the 10th anniversary of the occasion when Professor Osundare bagged the National Order of Merit Award.

In like manner, last Saturday was the 57th anniversary of the day the amiable governor of Ekiti State, Biodun Oyebanji, came to mother earth. Half-way through his first term in office, Oyebanji characteristically was self-effacing in marking his birthday; making it low key did not, however, allow it the luxury of escaping the attention of many, yours truly inclusive.

The theme of the Ibadan celebration was “Niyi Osundare: Ten years after, the harvest continues”. What harvest, if we may ask? The harvest of awards, recognitions and accolades for the Ikere-Ekiti born self-effacing poet of international repute. It was, indeed, a day of poetry reading, music and dance and the creme-de-la-creme of the literati were in ample supply.

If Osundare needs any introduction, not his poem on the country’s judiciary! It will be difficult to find anyone conversant with social media who has not come across Osundare’s caustic, even sarcastic, poem on the well-known corruption - a national malaise - that has not spared the hallowed chambers of the Judiciary, often touted, but now almost totally discredited, as the last hope of the common man.

But how many people also knew that “My Lord, where do I keep your bribe?” landed Osundare a lawsuit? He revealed at the 10th celebration of his Nigerian National Order of Merit award that human rights lawyer, Comrade Femi Falana, is the lawyer helping him with the court case (s) that, perhaps, his most popular poem of this generation attracted. So, Dele Farotimi was not the first to call out the judiciary, although the instruments applied by both Osundare and Farotimi differed. The judiciary must watch it!

Much of the encomiums poured on Prof. were not strange or new to me. During my NYSC year followed by an M. Sc. class at the premier university, Osundare was a senior Comrade that we all gathered around to advance the struggle for a better society. The fire has not dimmed in him. Speaker after speaker made reference to his humanity and selfless devotion to the cause of the oppressed and down-trodden.

Osundare's passion for learning and culture; his love for the environment; and the sadness that their mindless degradation engenders in him was palpable when he spoke about the felling of some iconic trees near the premier university’s First Gate: “Universities are known all over the world by their trees. Trees tell stories”, he said. “You cannot destroy your environment and still be at peace. If you don’t love the trees around you, you are not likely to love your neghbours”, he added. Profound! You begin to understand the love that the Whites show to their pets and the environment and how this impacts on their human-to-human relationship.

Apart from the environment, any humanity fearful of losing its very essence must know and cherish its history. Hear this: “Ti a ba tan (if we shine or glow)/ Ti a ko ba ni itan (But know not our history or have no history)/ A kii pee taan (It won't take long before we expire)”. What, then, do we make of the way History has been relegated to the background in our country today? The elders say: "Any diety that the elders alone worship/That the coming generations are not introduced to/Will sooner than later go into extinction”. The same goes for History that is not taught to coming generations.

When Osundare said his heart bleeds seeing people being cheated, I knew he has not changed a bit from the Osundare I knew as far back as 1982, despite the vicissitudes of life and his travels and sojourn in many countries and continents of the world. In his essential humanity, despite all accolades and shining academic laurels, he remains as constant as the Northern Stars!
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Fifty-seven thunderous applause for the governor of Ekiti State, His Excellency Biodun Oyebanji (aka BAO) who celebrated his 57th birthday last Saturday. For two reasons, I have closely followed BAO’s activities in office. One, because of his Chief Press Secretary, Yinka Oyebode, a Yoruba “Omoluwabi” personified. Initially, I had my reservations about BAO because of the “warfare” that preceded his clinching the coveted post.

Godfather-godson relationships seldom yield good dividends and they also hardly last. So I thought Ekiti would follow a similar pattern - but so far, so good. Silver and gold have I not to give to BAO but what I have give I thee - and for the wise, it is more precious than gems and rubbies: Three areas where I think any governor in the South-west should focus attention are security of life and property, food security, and education. BAO should redouble his efforts in these key areas.

More than ever before, the stampede over food palliatives occasioning loss of lives across the country dictate that we prioritize food production, which is impossible in an atmosphere of insecurity. That the South-west has fallen in the pecking order in the field of education also calls for serious action to redress the situation. Congratulations and happy birthday!

FEEDBACK

Why are Yoruba the “problem” of Nigeria?

The reasons the Yoruba are always controversial can be located in the Yoruba system of values where money comes a distant sixth position. You may wish to interrogate the first three values said to be held in high esteem by the Yoruba (of old?). The first is “làákàyè” - the application of knowledge, wisdom and understanding (Ogbón and ìmò òye). The second is “Ìwà Ọmọlúwàbí” (integrity). Someone with integrity is a man/woman of their word. If you have all the wealth in the world but lack integrity, you are not worth a thing. Integrity is combined with “ìwà” (character) which we regard as “Omolúàbí”. The third is “Akínkanjú” or “Ìwà Akin “ (valour). That is why “Balógun” is second-in-command in Yoruba land. The Balóguns lead the people to war - leading with great courage in the face of danger, especially in battle. Yoruba people have no respect for cowards. Money is said to be number six on that value scale, coming after gainful employment and valour. - Owo is one platform.

I am proud to be Yoruba, the most tolerant nationality in Nigeria! And if there will be an opportunity to come back to this world again and to choose what ethnic group to belong to, I will choose Yoruba again and again! What of the giant strides of the Yoruba in Christianity, beginning with Samuel Ajayi Crowther of the Anglican church to Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola of CAC of the 1930 revival “isoji” Oke-Oye of Ilesa fame; to Moses Orimolade of the C&S; Bilewu Oshoffa of the CCC; to the present Baba Adeboye of RCCG, Baba Kumuyi of Deeper Life, Baba Oyedepo of Living Faith Worldwide and a host of others! Yoruba lead in courage, hard work and commerce; they are self-made; display wisdom in almost every good thing while others follow! - Engr. James Awolowo Olayemi, Odo-Owa, Kwara State.

It is in our stars! The more others hate us, the more empowered we become! We are the only ethnic nationality that still remembers its progenitor,Oduduwa, and to empathize with him physically and spiritually. We shared so many things with Israel. We are the eyes of the Almighty .The more others hate us, the more powerful we become.Those who love us are blessed by God. We have what we call Yoruba ethos; go against it, you are doomed! Align with other enemies of the race to betray our ethos, Karma deals with you. - Akoso Atayese.

Your opinion speaks volumes to the authorities. Whether they get the message and do the needful is another thing entirely. But posterity will judge! I hope those concerned will see it and not only read it but digest and act on it. I wish the authorities will also play their part and see to it that there is total freedom for all and sundry. - Aderemi ajadi Desalu.

The mind enjoys having a thread of thoughts to hold on to or rap a human being around. Yet, it is the individual being that is held to account for his actions and not the tribe, religion or class to which he belongs. Why? Because at school we have no option but to gang or play together as classmates, close friends, etc. until it is time to graduate. This world is a school. We come here as individuals who find ourselves as classmates, close friends, etc. because we are born into a family, then tribe, with all that goes with it; yet, we go back alone like we came! By the way, has it ever occurred to you that it is with the mind that we love and hate at the same time? - Henry Atenaga.

Our culture, our character, our liberalism, our honesty, our forthrightness, our confidence, and many more virtues set the Yoruba apart! My worry, however, is if we are passing such to the next generation. - Bola Olowo.

Wishing all my highly esteemed readers a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Take my word for it: T-Pain will soon become T-Pleasure or I promise to join the march as we storm our own Bastilles at Bourdilion, Ikoyi, Lagos. Let it not get to that, please!

Former Editor of PUNCH newspapers, Chairman of its Editorial Board and Deputy Editor-in-Chief, BOLAWOLE was also Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief of The Westerner newsmagazine. He writes the ON THE LORD'S DAY column in the Sunday Tribune and TREASURES column in the New Telegraph newspaper on Wednesdays. He is also a public affairs analyst on radio and television.

The saga of Speed Darlington’s detention and subsequent release has been a whirlwind of drama and social commentary, captivating the attention of Nigerians and sparking debates about accountability, the rule of law, and the use of power. With Speed Darlington now set free, it is important to reflect on the lessons this episode holds for him and others, particularly Burna Boy, whose actions played a pivotal role in the incident.

For those unfamiliar, Speed Darlington’s troubles began when he allegedly fell afoul of Burna Boy, the Nigerian music icon known for his larger-than-life persona and global acclaim. The conflict reportedly escalated to the point where the police became involved, leading to Speed Darlington’s arrest. While details of the incident remain contested, one fact is clear: the situation underscores the complexities of personal responsibility, the wielding of influence, and the principles of justice.

Now that Speed Darlington, also known as Akpi, has been granted freedom, it is time for introspection. Both parties must examine their roles in this debacle, as the incident serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of actions taken without regard for the rule of law and mutual respect.

Akpi’s release should be seen not as an exoneration but as an opportunity for a fresh start. His freedom comes with a caveat: to go and sin no more. The public has watched too many figures stumble into avoidable controversies, only to emerge unrepentant and unchanged. Akpi must resist this trend.

First and foremost, Akpi should seize this moment to reflect on his actions and how they contributed to the escalation of the conflict. Was there a lapse in judgment, a failure to communicate effectively, or a tendency to provoke unnecessary disputes? Whatever the case, self-reflection is a vital step toward personal growth and public redemption.

Moreover, Akpi must recognize the weight of public opinion and the responsibilities that come with being in the spotlight. Whether he is a public figure or an ordinary individual, his actions resonate beyond his immediate circle. By choosing to lead a life marked by integrity and peace, Akpi can transform this negative episode into a story of resilience and reform.

On the other hand, Burna Boy, as a global star and influential figure, must also learn crucial lessons from this incident. The use of law enforcement should never be a substitute for personal responsibility or a way to flex one’s influence. The law is a sacred institution designed to ensure justice, not a weapon to settle personal scores or intimidate others.

In fact, Burna Boy’s reported involvement in escalating the situation to the point of involving the police reflects poorly on his stature as a role model. With great power comes great responsibility, and Burna Boy must understand that his actions set an example for millions of fans worldwide. By resorting to the police in what appears to be a personal matter, he inadvertently undermines the respect for the rule of law and portrays himself as a figure above reproach.

Instead, Burna Boy should channel his influence into fostering peace and dialogue. As a prominent public figure, he has the resources and platform to resolve conflicts amicably, setting a positive example for his fans and followers. The respect and admiration he enjoys should not be squandered on actions that reflect poorly on his character.

This incident also highlights the critical role of law enforcement in maintaining justice and impartiality. The police should serve as an unbiased arbiter of the law, ensuring fairness and equality in their dealings with all parties involved. Situations like these test the credibility of the police force and its commitment to justice.

Without a doubt, the police’s involvement in the Akpi-Burna Boy saga should be a reminder of the need for transparency and professionalism in law enforcement. Rather than being drawn into personal disputes, the police must prioritize the larger interests of justice and maintain their integrity.

Beyond the individuals involved, this incident also holds lessons for the public. Social media reactions to the Akpi and Burna Boy case revealed a mix of support, criticism, and outright sensationalism. While public discourse is essential, it must be guided by fairness and responsibility. Amplifying conflicts without understanding the full context only fuels division and misunderstanding.

As a society, we must strive to hold individuals accountable without resorting to baseless accusations or personal attacks. The focus should be on fostering an environment where justice prevails and personal differences are resolved constructively.

Ultimately, the Akpi-Burna Boy saga is a microcosm of larger societal issues. It is a story of conflict, power dynamics, and the quest for justice. Yet, it also offers an opportunity for growth and transformation.

For Akpi, this is a chance to rebuild his reputation and lead a life marked by integrity and responsibility. For Burna Boy, it is a moment to reflect on the ethical use of his influence and the importance of respecting the law. And for the rest of us, it is a reminder of the values that underpin a just and equitable society.

As the dust settles on this controversy, let us hope that all parties involved emerge wiser and more committed to fostering peace and respect. In the words of the biblical admonition, Akpi must go and sin no more, while Burna Boy must learn to let the law take its rightful course, rather than bending it to his will.

This incident should not merely be remembered as a celebrity spat gone wrong but as a turning point that inspired reflection, accountability, and positive change. Let us all take these lessons to heart, ensuring that such controversies serve as stepping stones toward a more just and harmonious society. Without a doubt, particularly as not a few people thought Akpi would spend his Christmas in detention, it is not a misnomer to opine that the release of Akpi was quite speedy, and that it is a meted justice Burna Boy shouldn’t burn.

The Oshodi-Isolo Local Government is set to rename Liverpool Road in Oshodi-Isolo after Seyi Tinubu, the son of Mr. President Bola Tinubu.

Chairman of the council, Kehinde Oloyede, explained that the decision was “borne out of his immense contributions to youth and community development.

According to Oloyode, in a statement shared on the LG’s X handle by his media aid, “All is now set for the renaming of Liverpool Road in Oshodi-Isolo Local Government after the son of Nigeria’s President, Amb. Seyi Tinubu.”

When contacted to confirm the claim, one of media aides to the Chairman of Oshodi –Isolo council said, The road, which is strategic to Oshodi and one of the major roads linking Oshodi/Apapa Expressway and connecting the international airport, “would soon be commissioned and renamed in Seyi Tinubu’s honour at a date to be announced.”

Oloyode, claimed “The road was a lion’s den, as no one could dare pass it either during the day or at night.”

He, however, noted that upon his assumption of office, the criminal elements, who had been using the road as a hideout before its reconstruction were all chased away.

[Opinion Nigeria]

To the uninitiated, journalism is a profession cloaked in allure and prestige. From the glitzy awards ceremonies to the chance to rub shoulders with influential figures, the field appears to outsiders as an open ticket to wealth, power, and respect. However, for those within its ranks, journalism is often a precarious balancing act between passion and survival, a world where the reality seldom matches the glamorous facade.

For many, the appeal of journalism starts young. The allure of telling stories, shaping public opinion, and holding power to account draws in bright-eyed hopefuls who envision themselves changing the world. But what happens when the reality of the newsroom or the field hits? What happens when the glamour fades, and all that is left is the grind?

Outsiders often believe that journalists are well-paid professionals who live comfortably, enjoying perks and privileges that come with their job. They imagine news anchors in sharp suits, investigative reporters uncovering scandals, and columnists shaping national discourse with their pen. The rise of social media influencers posing as journalists has only deepened this misconception, as they flaunt their “media lifestyle” with expensive gadgets and exotic travels.

The truth, however, is that these images represent the exceptions, not the rule. For every famous journalist with a primetime show, thousands are toiling away in obscurity, chasing stories that barely pay the bills. To the outside world, journalism screams “E don better” (It has gotten better), a signal that its practitioners have arrived at a comfortable station in life. But this perception couldn’t be further from the truth.

For insiders, journalism often feels like an endless hustle. Salaries, where they exist, are modest at best and non-existent at worst. Freelancers face late payments, if they are paid at all. Even staff journalists endure long hours, hostile work environments, and little recognition. The profession has become a labor of love for many, sustained by the hope that “E go better” (It will get better).

In Nigeria, the situation is particularly dire. Media organizations are plagued by financial instability, and many journalists are paid irregularly, sometimes going months without receiving their salaries. Some even resort to borrowing money just to make it to work. This financial strain forces many journalists to take on multiple jobs, diluting their focus and compromising the quality of their reporting.

A journalist’s day often begins before dawn and ends long after dusk. Covering stories in volatile regions, working on tight deadlines, and dealing with editors’ demands are all part of the grind. Add to this the lack of basic workplace protections and the constant threat of censorship or violence, and the shine of the profession quickly fades.

One of the most heartbreaking realities of journalism is that many of its practitioners live in hunger. There are countless stories of journalists who can’t afford the very commodities they report on. From food to healthcare to housing, basic needs often remain unmet. The disparity between the image and reality of journalism is most evident in this contradiction.

Some journalists rely on brown envelope journalism, accepting “tips” or bribes to supplement their income. This practice, though widely condemned, is a symptom of a deeper systemic issue. When journalists are not paid living wages, their ethics are compromised, and the integrity of the profession suffers.

In fact, Journalists in Nigeria also face unique challenges. Field reporters are often sent to dangerous locations without adequate security measures or health insurance. Others cover beats like politics or crime, where their safety can be threatened by powerful individuals who dislike critical reporting. Despite these risks, the pay remains meager, and recognition is scarce.

Given these harsh realities, one might wonder why anyone stays in journalism. The answer lies in the passion for the craft. Journalism offers a unique opportunity to make a difference, to be the voice of the voiceless, and to hold power accountable. For many, this sense of purpose outweighs the hardships.

There is also the faint glimmer of hope that things might improve. Like actors waiting for their big break or entrepreneurs holding out for their first success, journalists live in hope. They hope that one day, their work will be recognized, their pay will improve, and their sacrifices will be rewarded.

The problems facing journalists are not just personal; they are systemic. In Nigeria and many other countries, the media industry operates in an environment of declining revenues and increasing costs. Traditional media outlets are struggling to adapt to the digital age, where audiences expect free content but advertisers pay less.

Governments also play a significant role in stifling journalism. Draconian laws, harassment, and outright violence are tools often used to silence critical voices. In Nigeria, incidents of journalists being arrested, beaten, or even killed for their work are not uncommon. This hostile environment makes it even harder for journalists to earn a living while doing their job.

To bridge the gap between the illusion and reality of journalism, several steps must be taken. First, media organizations must prioritize fair pay and better working conditions for their employees. A journalist who is not worried about where their next meal will come from is better equipped to do their job with integrity.

Second, governments and stakeholders must create an enabling environment for the press to thrive. Freedom of the press is not just a nice-to-have; it is a cornerstone of democracy. Without it, societies cannot hold their leaders accountable or make informed decisions.

Third, audiences must recognize their role in supporting journalism. Paying for quality journalism, whether through subscriptions or donations, is a direct way to ensure that the profession survives and thrives. If we continue to demand free content, we undermine the very foundation of independent media.

Journalism is a profession caught in a paradox. To outsiders, it is the epitome of glamour and success. To insiders, it is a constant struggle to survive and make a difference. The gap between these perceptions must be closed if journalism is to fulfill its vital role in society.

For now, the reality for most journalists remains that of living on the edge, driven by passion and sustained by hope. It is a profession of “E don better” to the world and “E go better” to those who live it. Until the systemic issues are addressed, this dual reality will persist, leaving many journalists to wonder whether the sacrifices they make are truly worth it.

Justice Mohammed Zubairu granted the injunction following an ex-parte motion moved by Reuben Atabo (SAN), counsel to the applicant, Nextdora Nigeria Limited.

The motion, marked M/16807/2024, was heard on Monday, and its certified true copy was released to journalists on Tuesday.

Justice Zubairu, in his ruling, stated that the injunction was necessary to ensure justice and uphold the principle of fair hearing.

“The interim order of injunction is to last for a few days pending when all parties are served and appear before this court for the hearing of the motion on notice,” the judge said.

He ordered the defendants, including the Minister of FCT and the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), to refrain from trespassing or interfering with the claimant’s possession of the property until the motion on notice is heard.

“An order of interim injunction is hereby made restraining the defendants/respondents, whether by themselves or agents, privies, servants, workmen, and any person howsoever called acting on their behalf from trespassing into and interfering with the claimant’s exclusive possession of the property,” Justice Zubairu added.

The court also granted three other prayers sought by the applicant, including a directive to halt any development or reassignment of the property. The matter has been adjourned to December 30 for the hearing of the substantive suit.

The defendants in the suit include Eric Anyamene Nnamdi, Bilikisu Mallam, the FCT Minister, and the FCDA.

The applicant, Nextdora Nigeria Limited, claims ownership of the land, which is covered by a Right of Occupancy with File No. MISC 128232.

The company has requested the court to declare it as the legitimate titleholder and to bar the defendants from selling or developing the land.

The legal action, which includes a writ of summons filed on December 16, seeks a total of seven reliefs, including the preservation of the property’s title and its protection from third-party interference.

Justice Zubairu directed that the motion on notice be served on all defendants to enable their appearance in court for the hearing of the substantive matter. The interim injunction remains in place until the court delivers a further ruling.

[NaijaNews]

Last week, the Akwa Ibom state government held a three-day appraisal of its performance for fiscal 2024, bringing all MDAs one room to present their scorecards to a cross-section of the people. In his opening statement, Governor Umo Eno made a very curious remark. He said that he has been constantly blamed by government officials for not releasing funds to them any time they asked. His reluctance is because he’s only been judicious in managing the finances of the state and so officials should not expect to get money for everything they want.

Here’s how the governor put it: “If there’s anything people will blame me about, and I am sure you are going to hear more of it, it is no release of funds. I hold money in trust for Akwa Ibom people and I will always disburse those funds (in a way) that will address the needs of the generality of Akwa Ibom people, beyond very personal needs. I hold myself accountable to the people of Akwa Ibom state for the funds we have been blessed with and I will not fritter the funds away in an attempt to play to the gallery.”

Sometime in October, the governor told an informal group in Lagos that he’s been under constant pressure from civil servants to sponsor them to attend conferences, workshops and seminars; but since those conferences do not add much value to the government, he’d been reluctant to approve them. “Anybody who wants to make money from government must be more creative than seeking to attend workshops,” he said with a tinge of derision. We all laughed.

Earlier in his administration, he had declared publicly that he was going to deploy resources as frugally as he managed his own personal funds as a businessman before he was elected. Recently, he’s also said that he’s been using the same official vehicles he inherited from his successor despite pressures from every quarter, including car dealers to buy new ones. He was not in a hurry to change them, he said, because the vehicles are still serviceable and he detests excessiveness.

It is not rare for some politicians to make nice statements in public, only to act in the opposite direction in private. But I will give this governor the benefit of the doubt. He deserves our encouragement for taking a stand against reckless spending and waste of resources. This may not make him very popular within government circles, but Akwa Ibom people will stand by him and history will judge him fairly if he’s honest about it. I have fumed repeatedly about wastefulness and corruption in the Akwa Ibom government in recent years, and written a lot about corruption, incompetence and decadence (our own CID) being at the root of Nigeria’s problems. It would be a herculean task for Eno to hold off the pressures.

He would be frequently castigated for not being as “generous” as his predecessors were. Some of them indulged in buying houses and expensive vehicles for musicians, friends and associates as gifts. A governor of the state, I am told, once gave a cash gift of £1 million (one million British pounds) to the sitting president at that time, to assist the president furnish his new apartment in London.

He also funded the establishment of a cattle ranch in Kaduna for his friend, among other expensive giveaways he indulged in often. This same governor had many emirs in his payroll and was constantly dolling out huge cash payments to them, in addition to sponsoring many Northerners on pilgrimage to Mecca.

But expectedly, some people are not happy with the governor despite his good intentions. The state branch of APC in a statement issued by Iniobong John, the DG of APC media network, claims that the government has spent only N228.76 billion in 2024 out of the N757. 17 billion budgeted, “leaving N528.41 billion unutilised”. “The excuses offered by the state governor for implementing only 30% of the 2024 budget is unacceptable.” the statement said.

This is a typical mindset of Nigerian politicians. They measure budget performance by the volume of cash spent and the amount of contracts awarded; rather than the value added to the lives of the people. If Umo Eno had spent a good part of the budget on conferences, donations, buying cars and houses for girlfriends and sponsoring emirs on pilgrimages as was our experience not long ago, perhaps the APC would have scored the government high for “good budget performance”.

If the government had elected to buy another private jet for the use of the governor and built a brand new governor’s lodge in Abuja, the governor would have been commended for “putting money in people’s pockets” as we often hear. But for being prudent and sticking to only what is important, the government has drawn the ire of the political class in the state. They are used to easy money. Gov Eno should not budge.

I would rather he establishes a savings account for the state and put away money for future generations than throw it away on frivolities in the name of ‘’putting money into people’s pockets or budget performance’’. I support leaders who treat government resources with responsibility, good sense and thoughtfulness. Prudence is still a virtue and history will be kind to those who live by it.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has said President Bola Tinubu’s media chat confirmed the insensitivity of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the “widespread hardship and suffering” faced by Nigerians as a result of ill-implemented and anti-people policies of the APC.

The PDP urged Tinubu to stop relying on fabricated statistics bandied by officials of his government and travel from Abuja to Lagos by road, visit any market or take a walk on any Nigerian street to properly gauge and appreciate the real situation in the country.

The opposition party said Tinubu’s declaration of having no regrets for the sudden removal of fuel subsidy without any cushioning measures to mitigate the resultant crippling effect on the productive sector, confirmed APC’s disconnection from the primary purpose of government which is the welfare and security of the citizens.

The national publicity secretary, Hon Debo Ologunagba, said Tinubu, in the chat, admitted that Nigerians are bearing the brunt of the failure and inability of the APC administration under his watch to effectively police and secure the nation’s borders to prevent the smuggling of petroleum products to neighboring countries.

Ologunagba added that PDP is disturbed that APC has failed to account for the proceeds saved from the removal of subsidy, while Nigerians are subjected to crushing economic hardship because the APC administration has failed in its fundamental duty of ensuring the territorial integrity of the nation.

“Moreover, Nigerians are appalled that instead of admitting failure and seeking for solutions, Mr. President again claimed that the nation’s economy has improved under his watch when in reality the situation has worsened with comatose productive sector, deteriorating value of the Naira at N1,700 to the US Dollar, 34.6% inflation and 40% unemployment rates in the last 18 months.

“The widespread food stampede in various parts of the country which recently led to the death of about 80 Nigerians shows that our nation is indeed in perilous time under the APC.

“The PDP holds that there is no hope in sight under the APC given its failure to embark on meaningful investments in critical sectors including agriculture and food production, electricity, petroleum and gas, Small and Medium Scale Enterprises, which are the real drivers of the national economy.

“Also, alarming is President Tinubu’s claim that Nigerians can now freely and safely travel by road despite the horrible reality of banditry, kidnapping and armed robbery as well as the worsened condition of highways across the country under the APC,” the opposition party added.

The free train rides declared by the federal government across the country have kicked off across the country amidst delays and overcrowding at some of the stations as Nigerians turned up in large numbers for the rides to their various destinations.

The federal government has directed the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) to offer free train rides across all its passenger routes in a bid to reduce the burden of rising transportation costs on Nigerians.

The free train services, which were also declared last year cover all the passenger routes including the Abuja-Kaduna Train Service; the Lagos-Ibadan Train Service; Warri-Itakpe and the Lagos-Ogun Mass Transit trains on the narrow gauge.

According to the acting MD, the initiative targets an estimated 340,000 passengers between now and early January 2025, with about 20,000 passengers expected daily.

However, reports from across the country indicated that while Nigerians embraced the initiative, it has been marred by delays, alleged racketeering, as well as overbooking.

At Rigasa Train Station yesterday, thousands of passengers struggled to board the train amidst overcrowding.

Those who had booked online found themselves stuck in a disorganised crowd with no clear guidance on how to board the train.

“We woke up early to get tickets, but we are not guaranteed entry,” said one frustrated passenger. “It’s supposed to be free, but there’s no order to the whole thing. It’s just a mess.”

The process was, especially difficult as residents of Rigasa believed that since the train service was free, they could board without any ticket or reservation, regardless of whether they had any business in Abuja.

This belief contributed to the chaos, as many simply jumped in line or tried to board without tickets, taking advantage of the disarray.

Daily Trust’s reporter, who followed the entire process from ticket booking to boarding the train to Abuja, witnessed the disorganisation firsthand.

The problems started at the first security check, where passengers were asked for IDs and tickets.

The waiting area was overcrowded, with some passengers struggling to find a place to sit.

One mother, with a baby of just two months, had to climb through a window to get fresh air for her child. “I couldn’t breathe inside. It was so stuffy, and my baby was struggling to get air,” she said.

Once inside the train, the situation didn’t improve as there was confusion over seats. Many passengers were claiming ownership of seats, but others argued that there were no assigned seats since the service was free.

Meanwhile, some passengers who had not managed to board the morning train were asked to wait for the 5 p.m. service, with no guarantee of getting a seat.

People travelling to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to celebrate the Christmas and New Year have commended the free train services declared by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Our correspondent, who visited the Rigasa Train Station in Kaduna observed that there were a few passengers waiting to board the train.

The station however became rowdy when officials of the NRC announced that passengers with tickets will board the train first to instill orderliness.

Other passengers subsequently boarded after writing down their names and National Identity Number (NIN).

A cross section of passengers who spoke with our correspondent thanked the president for declaring the free rides for the yuletide season.

Fatima Adam who traveled in company of four others said she enjoyed the ride to and from Abuja on the train.

She said, “I learnt that the president had declared free train ride for the Christmas and New Year, so we decided to take advantage of the opportunity to visit a friend who lost her father. Five of us came in this morning (Tuesday) and we are going back with no transport expenses courtesy, Mr President.”

Asked if she encountered any challenges during the rides, she said, “I did not have a ticket, but I was able to secure a seat on the train. It was seamless and no one was standing on the train.”

Also, Chukwu Egugolu, another passenger, commended the Muhammadu Buhari administration for establishing the train service saying, “While the rich enjoy air transport, the poor can also enjoy the train comfortably.”

In Lagos, many passengers were seen at the Babatunde Raji Fashola Train Station Agege waiting to board the Lagos-Ibadan Train Service.

Many of the passengers who spoke with our correspondent lamented that they could not book online for the train services.

However, they were asked to queue outside pending the arrival of the train from its destination – Mobolaji Johnson Train Station, Ebute-Metta.

The Lagos Railway District Manager, Engr. Augustine Arisa in a chat with our correspondent said the service between Lagos and Ibadan and Ibadan Lagos has been smooth, saying the passenger turnout is also impressive.

Commuters stranded as Ujevwu-Warri train service breaks down

For passengers in Ujevwu, near Warri, Delta State, it is a different ball game as some of them are grappling with severe transportation challenges as the Ujevwu-Warri train service continues to face technical breakdowns, leaving travelers stranded for days.

The train service, reportedly faulty since December 21, 2024, has disrupted travel plans for many, especially workers and festive season travelers.

A source said, “As of today, December 24, the train has been faulty for three days. People who should have resumed work by 7 a.m. are still at home because the train isn’t functional. Those who traveled yesterday have not returned, and those trying to commute to work are stranded,” the source disclosed.

According to the insider, the service is supposed to operate two trains, ensuring continuous movement.

However, only one train is operational, causing significant delays. “If there were two trains, one could go while the other returns. But now, only one is running and passengers must wait long hours for it to come back. It moves and then fails to return. It keeps breaking down, and this isn’t helping matters,” the source lamented.

The MD had said, “For those unable to secure tickets online, NRC staff will profile passengers at stations to ensure fair access.

“The free train rides will operate on six major routes, including Abuja-Kaduna, Lagos-Ibadan, Port Harcourt-Aba, Lagos Mass Transit, and Warri-Itakpe.”

[DailyTrust]

A former lawmaker representing Kaduna Central Senatorial District, Shehu Sani, has slammed President Bola Tinubu for saying he is not interested in probing military spending under his predecessor, Muhammadu Buhari.

Sani stated this on Channels Television’s Politics Today programme on Tuesday.

DAILY POST recalls that President Tinubu during a media chat on Monday said he won’t probe military expenditure under Buhari.

The ex-lawmaker said doing that was tantamount to rewarding larceny and corruption.

According to him, the President’s stance was contradictory to his probe of the past activities of the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, under embattled its former governor, Godwin Emefiele.

“When you find yourself in this position, especially with a nation facing these critical issues like ours, you still have to go backward and see how public funds that were looted have been recovered and I think we have been doing that with what has happened in the CBN the last time.

“But when one of the panelists questioned him (Tinubu) about the looting, the mismanagement of security and defense forces under the Buhari administration, which he needs to probe, I think he made it clear that he is more interested in moving forward than moving backward. It’s a bit contradictory; you can move backward in CBN but you can’t move backward in security.

“I believe that what should have been is that if he is being provided with evidence that shows that there are clear cases of corruption, he would move to recover public funds. That is what the answer was supposed to be.

“If you say that whatever happened in the past has gone, it is more like rewarding larceny which he has done by saying he is not going to go back,” he said.

He added that Tinubu should be held accountable for all his policies and the actions of his ministers since he claimed all his cabinet members are performing.

[DailyPost]