SUNDAY 26TH MAY 2019

MTN Confirms EFCC Probe, Denies Shares Manipulation Share price drops

Emma Okonji MTN Nigeria Communications Plc has confirmed the visit of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to its Falomo office in Ikoyi,

Lagos, to probe an alleged shares manipulation scandal rocking the telecoms company since the recent listing of its shares on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE).

The development may have

contributed to the depreciation in the share price of MTN Nigeria for the first time since it was listed on the Nigerian bourse.

Precisely, after appreciating by 65 per cent (N59) in just one

week, from the N90 per share it was listed on the NSE, to N149 per share last Thursday, MTN Nigeria’s share price suffered its first decline last Friday as it closed at N140 per share.

THISDAY had reported that SEC recently launched a probe into the process that led to the listing of MTN Nigeria on the NSE, even though the exchange had defended the telco.

But in a statement signed its company Secretary, Uto Ukpanah, which was obtained yesterday, MTN said it was never accused of any

wrongdoing by the EFCC.

Buhari, Jonathan Greet Clark at 92 …

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INEC Declares PDP Candidates Winners in Zamfara Elections Issues Certificates of Return Monday PDP, Obi say victory is a challenge to uplift state Yari: We accept decision, Allah wanted it the way it happened

Onyebuchi Ezigbo and Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), yesterday, complied with the judgement of the Supreme Court and declared all the candidates of the Peoples

Democratic Party (PDP) in Zamfara State as winners of the 2019 general election held in the state. This followed an emergency meeting occasioned by the apex court’s judgement.

This is as the leadership of Continued on page 8

Wike: APC, Some PDP Govs Conspired to Take over Rivers Says God rescued Rivers from internal, external conspiracy Ernest Chinwo in Port Harcourt and Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja Rivers State Governor, Mr. Nyesom Wike yesterday alleged that the All Progressives Congress and some governors of Peoples

Democratic Party (PDP) joined forces to take over the state.

However, the governor said his re-election was as a result of God's miraculous intervention in the face of internal and external conspiracy Continued on page 8

Air Strikes Decimate Terrorists FOR A VIABLE JUDICIARY… Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu; President Muhammadu Buhari; Ogun State Governor, Ibikunle Amosun and in Tumbun Hamma in Borno… Page 12 L-R: Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode, during the president's inauguration of Ogun State Judicial Complex… yesterday

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ÍşÍžËœ ͺ͸͚Π˞ T H I S DAY, T H E S U N DAY N E W S PA P E R

PAGE EIGHT MTN CONFIRMS EFCC PROBE, DENIES SHARES MANIPULATION THISDAY had reported that the anti-graft agency stormed MTN's office about 4pm on Friday and quizzed top officials of the telecoms company after demanding vital documents, which they were promptly given.

THISDAY also learnt that the EFCC visit and questioning of MTN management staff were not unconnected with the alleged shares manipulation in the recent MTN listing on the NSE. According to the statement

by Ukpanah, “MTN Nigeria Communications Plc (MTN

Nigeria) received a letter on May 23, 2019 from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) requesting information and documentation related to the listing of our shares on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE).

MTN Nigeria has not been accused of any wrongdoing by the EFCC. “We wish to reiterate that we received all regulatory approvals required to list our shares on the Nigerian Stock Exchange, as publicly confirmed by the Nigerian Stock Exchange and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

“As a law-abiding and responsible corporate citizen, we are cooperating fully with the authorities. We are committed to good governance and to abiding by the extant laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.�

MTN had on May 16 listed its shares on the NSE by way of an introductory listing. The listing by introduction meant that the shares of existing MTN Nigeria shareholders were listed without an additional public sale of shares.

By this development, all MTN Nigeria shareholders were free

to trade their shares on the NSE. But few hours after the listing, investors and stakeholders were worried about the free float accommodation MTN Nigeria Communications Plc was granted by the capital market regulator to pave the way for its listing. They suspected that the MTN shares must have been manipulated to drive the price of the stock high before any share offering through an Initial Public Offering (IPO).

THISDAY had also reported that investors on the NSE and stakeholders waiting to purchase

MTN shares through an initial public offering might do so at a very high premium whenever the telco decides to float the IPO. This was because of the free float accommodation and some other waivers MTN Nigeria was granted by the capital market regulators to pave the way for its listing last Thursday.

But despite the perceived manipulation of the MTN shares, the telecoms industry regulator, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), has declared confidence in the listing of MTN

Nigeria shares. Executive Vice Chairman of NCC, Professor Umar Garba Danbatta, said recently that with MTN shares available in the capital market, Nigerians would buy shares and by purchasing the shares of MTN, they would be financially empowered and socially transformed. “Through the MTN listing on the NSE, the Commission had translated into action an important function of the Commission, which is to promote local investment and ownership in the telecom sector,�

Danbatta had said.

INEC DECLARES PDP CANDIDATES WINNERS IN ZAMFARA ELECTIONS the PDP yesterday congratulated Zamfara State Governor-elect Bello Mohammed Matawalle, the federal and state legislators-elect, and the people of the state. PDP described the victory of its candidates as the triumph of the will of the people over manipulative forces.

In a separate message, the vice presidential candidate of PDP in the 2019 elections, Mr. Peter Obi, urged Matawelle and the others to see their victory as a challenge to work and uplift their state.

Governor Abdulaziz Yari of Zamfara State said his administration and the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state accepted the verdict of the Supreme Court. Yari said the party had done its best to retain power in the state, but as “Allah wanted it, the Supreme Court judgement went the way it happened.� The governor spoke in a statement by his Special Adviser on Public Enlightenment, Media and Communication, Mallam Ibrahim Dosara.

The Supreme Court had in a unanimous judgement by its fivemember panel on Friday described as “wasted� all the votes cast for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2019 elections in Zamfara State. The court said APC failed to conduct primaries in accordance with the party’s rules.

Justice Paul Adamu Galinji, who read the lead judgement, held that all votes cast for the APC were “wasted votes� and declared that all political parties with the second highest votes in the elections and the required spread were automatically elected to the various offices.

The Governor Abdul-Aziz Yari faction of the APC, which emerged after the October 3, 2018 primary of the party, had in the appeal by their lawyer, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), asked the apex court to set aside the judgement of the Court of Appeal in Sokoto, in an appeal by the Kabir Marafa faction of the party challenging the outcome of the primary.

All the candidates fielded by the Yari faction of the party for the governorship, National and State House of Assembly elections, including the APC governorship candidate, Alhaji Mukhtar Shehu, had gone ahead to win the 2019 elections as declared by INEC. But Chairman of INEC, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, while addressing a press conference yesterday at the end of an emergency meeting, said the reason for the impromptu briefing was to update the media on the recent decision of the Supreme Court regarding the candidates fielded

by the APC in Zamfara State for the 2019 general election. Yakuku recalled that the legal process that culminated in the Supreme Court decision of May 24 started when the commission issued the timetable and schedule of activities for the 2019 elections on January 9, 2018, over a year ahead of the elections. The schedule included the conduct of party primaries, which was slated to take place between August 18 and October 7, 2018, but which the APC failed to comply with.

He insisted that APC did not conduct its primaries in Zamfara State within the stipulated time and the commission had duly informed the party that it would not be in a position to present candidates for elections in the state. The chairman explained that other interested parties, including the APC itself, approached the court over the decision of the commission. He said just before the election, the subsisting court judgement at the time had ordered the commission to include the APC on the ballot for the governorship, national assembly and state assembly elections, which the commission complied with.

Yakubu noted that since the elections were completed, a Court of Appeal judgement and now a Supreme Court judgement had decided that the APC did not conduct valid primaries for the elections in question.

According to the INEC chairman, “Following the judgement of the Supreme Court, the commission has met in two emergency sessions and taken briefings from our lawyers and staff on the implementation of the Supreme Court judgement. “While the legislative elections (Senatorial, House of Representatives and State House of Assembly elections) are straight forward to deal with, because they entail first-past-thepost or simple majority of votes, the governorship election is determined not just by majority votes but also spread, in accordance with Section 179 (2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). “This means that we had to first discount the votes cast for the APC at the elections and then carefully rework the spread by local government areas based on the new valid votes.�

He said in compliance with the Supreme Court judgement, the commission had now determined the winners of the elections in the state.

For the governorship poll, the commission declared Bello Mohammed Matawalle, of the PDP and his running mate, Mahdi Aliyu

Gusau, as elected, having polled 189, 452 votes.

In the senatorial election, the main opposition party won all the three seats, and the candidates declared winners include Ya’u Sahabi, Zamfara North; Mohammed Hassan, Zamfara Central; and Lawali Hassan Anka, Zamfara West.

Those declared winners for the House of Representatives are Umar Dan-Galadima (Kaura-Namoda/ Birnin Magaji federal constituency); Bello Hassan Shinkafi (Shinkafi/ Zurmi federal constituency); Kabiru Amadu (Gusau/Tsafe federal constituency); Shehu Ahmed (Bungudu/Maru federal constituency); Kabiru Yahaya (Anka/ Talata Mafara federal constituency); Ahmed Bakura (Bakura/Maradun federal constituency); and and Sulaiman Gum (Gummi/Bukkuyum federal constituency).

For the House of Assembly, the winners as declared by INEC are Zaharadeen M. Sada (Kaura Namoda North); Anas Sarkin Fada (Kaura Namoda South); Nura Dahiru (Birnin Magaji state constituency); Salihu Usman Zurmi (Zurmi East); Nasiru Mu'azu (Zurmi West); Muhammad G. Ahmad (Shinkafi state constituency); Musa Bawa Musa (Tsafe East State constituency); Aliyu Na-maigora (Tsafe West state constituency); and Ibrahim Naida (Gusau East).

Others include Shafi’u Dama (Gusau West); Kabiru Magaji (Bungudu East); Nasiru Bello Lawal (Bungudu West); Yusuf Alhassan Muhammad (Maru North); Kabiru Hashimu (Maru South); Shamsudeen Hassan (Talata Mafara North); Aminu Yusuf Jangebe (Talata Mafara South); Tukur Jekada (Birnin Tudu-Bakura); Faruk Musa Dosara (Maradun); Nasiru Atiku (Maradun II); Abdulnasir Ibrahim (Gummi I); Mansur Mohammed (Gummi II); Ibrahim Mohammed Na’idda (Bukkuyum North); and Sani Dahiru (Bukkuyum South).

The National Rescue Movement Party won one seat, Anka state constituency, through its candidate, Yusuf Muhammad.

Yakubu disclosed that INEC would issue Certificates of Return to the new winners on Monday.

He stated, “Governor and Deputy Governor-elect, Senators-elect and Members of the House of Representatives-elect will receive their certificates on Monday 27th May 2019 at the Commission’s Electoral Institute at 2.00pm.�

Yakubu added that members of the House of Assembly-elect would receive their certificates from the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Zamfara State at the INEC

LIST OF WINNERS AS DECLARED

BY INEC YESTERDAY

State Office in Gusau on Friday, May 31, 2019 at 10am.

He added, “I wish to seize this opportunity to draw the attention of all stakeholders, but particularly the political parties, to the implications of the Supreme Court judgement on the Zamfara matter. “It is clear that properly conducted party primaries are cardinal to the proper internal functioning of political parties, the electoral process and our democratic system at large.

Therefore, political parties must take very seriously the conduct of primaries according to all extant rules, including the monitoring of the processes by INEC, to avoid a repeat of the Zamfara experience.�

In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Kola Ologbondiyan, PDP congratulated its victorious candidates. It assured the people of Zamfara State of a purposeful, people-based, and resultoriented leadership that would unite and revitalise the state for the greater good, in line with the wishes and aspirations of the people.

The party noted that the victory was a clear pointer to the fact that no matter how long manipulations and anti-democratic tendencies appear to thrive, justice and the will of the people always prevail at the end of the day. It said Zamfara is blessed with abundant human and natural resources, adding that the in-coming administration will direct all energies towards harnessing such resources for the wellbeing of the people.

PDP urged the people to resist all forces of division and unite behind their new leaders to move the state forward.

The party also expressed optimism that justice would prevail in its effort to retrieve what it called all its stolen mandates, particularly the presidential mandate that Nigerians freely gave their candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar in court.

On his part, Obi, who is also a former governor of Anambra State, said in his congratulatory message to Matawelle that God must have a reason for choosing him to hold the governorship mandate. In a statement, Obi stressed that the fallout of the Zamfara State elections should teach politicians a lesson that God has the final say on who gets what position.

He reminded the PDP leaders that the security situation in the state at this time had thrown up a huge challenge to them to go and resolve, adding that being a beneficiary of the rule of law, they should do everything while in office to uphold the sanctity of the judiciary as a critical component in a democracy.

A statement on Saturday by Dosara said Yari accepted the apex court’s verdict when he addressed a gathering of APC supporters at Government House, Gusau. The statement quoted the governor as saying that members and supporters of the party in the state had done everything possible to ensure APC

did not lose Zamfara State, but God's wish prevailed.

The governor urged all APC members and other citizens of the state to remain calm, peaceful and law-abiding. He directed security agencies in the state to be more vigilant to ensure adequate protection of lives and property in the state.

intervention, the people of Rivers would not be on ground for this thanksgiving.

He called on Rivers elders “to unite and work for the restoration of peace in the state. Power comes from God. Hence, all leaders should support Wike to move the state forward.

"Power comes from God. Therefore, we must all stand behind our leader and governor. Enough is enough.

It is time to work for the growth of Rivers State,� the former governor said.

Also at the service, Secondus said the states of the Niger Delta were under siege by the authorities during the elections.

He said that it was God that delivered Rivers State, noting that God confounded the army commanders and secular authorities to ensure the victory of Wike.

"It was written in Abuja. They issued several press statements.

Security agencies and generals stood, but who can beat the Army of the Lord. They planned to take Rivers

State by Force. “In their plans, they excluded God from their plans. It was the power of God that delivered Governor Wike.

When the Army Commanders took over, God intervened,� Secondus said.

He, therefore, urged President Muhammadu Buhari to involve the 36 Governors and other relevant stakeholders in any strategy aimed at tackling the worsening security situation in the country.

The PDP chairman explained that the security problems are overwhelming the federal government because it's detached from the people through its isolationist system of governance.

He lamented that the federal government has lost focus and idea of how to handle the security challenges, saying Buhari “cannot isolate the people he governs and expects necessary cooperation and support needed to tackle issues like security. “That is why they must try to

carry the state governors along if they hope to decisively tackle the security challenges. They were in Abuja playing God sending military saying it will never happen. But they forgot that nobody can surmount the army of God." He commended the people of Rivers state for standing up in defence of democracy pointing out that the supreme sacrifice of deaths and other stress they were subjected to during the election cannot be in vain.

Ohuabunwa, currently representing Abia North Senatorial District, urged all PDP senators to work with Wike at all times. He said that they will continue to give him unflinching support to deliver on his mandate.

In a sermon, Ibiyeomie said an attitude of thanksgiving provides a platform for development, saying God deserved gratitude for the blessings He bestows on the State.

The cleric, therefore, prayed for peace to be restored in Rivers State through the direct control of God.

GOVERNORSHIP Bello Mohammed Matawalle DEPUTY GOVERNORSHIP Mahdi Aliyu Gusau SENATORS ELECT Ya’u Sahabi, Zamfara North Mohammed Hassan, Zamfara Central Lawani Hassan, Zamfara West HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVE MEMBERS Umar Dan-Galadima – Kaura-Namoda/Birnin Magaji federal constituency Bello Hassan ShinkaďŹ â€“ ShinkaďŹ /Zurmi federal constituency Kabiru Amadu – Gusau/Tsafe federal constituency Shehu Ahmed – Bungudu/Maru federal constituency Kabiru Yahaya – Anka/Talata Mafara federal constituency Ahmed Bakura – Bakura/Maradun federal constituency Sulaiman Gum – Gummi/Bukkuyum federal constituency STATE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY MEMBERS Zaharadeen M. Sada – Kaura Namoda north constituency Kaura Namoda – south constituency Nura Daihiru – Birnin Magaji constituency Salihu Zurmi – Zurmi east constituency Nasiru Muazu Zurmi west constituency Muhammad G. Ahmad – ShinkaďŹ constituency Musa Bawa Musa – Tsafe east constituency Aliyu Namaigora – Tsafe west constituency Ibrahim Naidda – Gusau east constituency ShaďŹ u Dama – Gusau west constituency Kabiru Magaji – Bungudu east constituency Nasiru Bello Lawal – Bungudu west constituency Yusuf Alhassan Muh – Maru north constituency Kabiru Hashimu -Maru South (NRM) MARU SOUTH KABIRU HASHIMU MALE NRM Yusuf Muhammad – Anka constituency Shamudeen Hassan – Talata-Mafara north constituency Aminu Yusuf Jangebe – Talata-Mafara south constituency Tukur Jekada – Bakura constituency Faruk Musa Dosara – Maradun I constituency Nasiru Atiku – Maradun II constituency Abdulnasir Ibrahim – Gummi I constituency Mansur Mohammed – Gummi II constituency Ibrahim Mohammed Naidda – Bukkuyum north constituency Sani Dahiru – Bukkuyum south constituency NB: All but one are members of the PDP, the only exception is a member of NRM that won a seat into the State House of Assembly based on the Supreme Court verdict. source: inec

WIKE: APC, SOME PDP GOVS CONSPIRED TO TAKE OVER RIVERS to truncate the will of Rivers people on March 9.

He made the remarks at a thanksgiving service held at the Yakubu Gowon Stadium, Port Harcourt to mark his electoral victory, noting that God rescued Rivers and its people from internal and external conspiracy.

Among others, the thanksgiving service was attended by former Rivers State Governor, Chief Peter Odili; the PDP National Chairman, Prince Uche Secondus, Senator Mao Ohuabunwa and the Presiding Pastor of Salvation Ministries, Pastor David Ibiyeomie.

At the service, the governor alleged that some governors of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) worked with the opposition to ensure that the PDP was cheated out of her victory in Rivers State.

He noted that the fight “was not just with the opposition. It was also within our party. When we lost the election in Ekiti State, one of our leaders in the South-west said that Fayose is

finished and the next person is Wike.

"Some governors within the party joined forces with the opposition against the State. But then, the will of God prevailed. I was not bothered by what the opposition did, but what some of our party members did was worrisome.

"Some persons working with us in the state betrayed us. They felt there was no way that we would make it.

They became agents of the opposition.

But God’s intervention rescued Rivers and its people.�

Wike commended the clergy and Rivers women for standing by him and the PDP all through the electioneering, noting that their support ensured that the PDP emerged victorious.

The governor noted that the women of the state “indeed showed so much concern. Some of them were ready to die because of our election. I do not know how to thank them.

"For the first time, I saw women like Aba Women Riot, coming out to say no and we will not agree. Let me assure you that I will not disappoint

the Christian community in Rivers State,� he said.

Wike assured the people of Rivers that he would work like a first term governor, delivering on his pledges and that his performance will not be affected by the second term syndrome.

He reiterated that he would remain committed to the olive branch that he extended to the opposition in the State. He said that it was done to promote peace and not out of fear of political fight.

He said that the state government would not abandon the families of courageous Rivers people who died in defence of democracy, praising the PDP Governorship Election Collation Agent, Dr Ferry Gberegbe who was allegedly murdered by the Federal Special Anti-Robbery Squad for defending democracy.

Wike singled out his wife for praise on the positive roles she has played in sustaining his family.

Former Rivers State Governor, Dr Peter Odili said without God's

T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R ˾ MAY 26,2019

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SUNDAY COMMENT

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com

BUHARI PRESIDENCY: THE NEXT FOUR YEARS...

At the verge of President Buhari’s inauguration for a second term, the nation is invited to take stock and to extend a wish list to the imminent administration

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ased strictly on his chosen three campaign pillars of security, economy and anti-corruption, the verdict on President Muhammadu Buhari’s first term is a rather mixed bag weighted heavily on the negative side. On the eve of his second term inauguration, therefore, we urge him to see the nation as his constituency.

He is as much the president of those who voted for him as he is for those who did not. Most importantly, this is an opportunity for Buhari to lay to rest the increasing impression that he is a sectional leader. He must now belong to all Nigerians while ensuring that we all belong to one indivisible nation.

On the security front, the nation Buhari inherited four years ago is today more insecure than it has ever been since after the civil war.

The troublesome Boko Haram insurgency has metastasised into a full terrorist menace with occasional daring exploits.

Indiscriminate killings by sundry cartels of gunmen, kidnapping for ransom, armed robbery and assorted other violent crimes are rampant in many parts of the country.

The value of human life has become gravely so degraded that news of deaths often on an industrial scale hardly shocks the citizenry anymore.

The free access of criminal gangs to military grade weapons has elevated the insecurity to a veritable challenge to the supremacy of the state.

While external reserves have remained fairly stable and even marginally increased, the indices of domestic economic well-being remain dismal. The rate of investment in the economy has remained too fickle to challenge the magnitude of unemployment, especially among the youth. This is not to deny that government effort in the realm of infrastructure restoration and development, if magnified and sustained, promises to increase employment opportunities in the long term. But the spate of insecurity around the country continues

to make Nigeria an unattractive destination for much needed foreign direct investment.

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This is an opportunity for Buhari to lay to rest the increasing impression that he is a sectional leader.

He must now belong to all Nigerians while ensuring that we all belong to one indivisible nation

Letters to the Editor

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onspiracy theories are the palm oil of Nigeria’s politics. They give taste to falsehood, tension, fear and unrest.

And often, they are ignorantly eaten, regurgitated and spewed by the unwary.

On December 11, 2013, former President Olusegun Obasanjo wrote a caustic missive entitled, ‘Before it is too late’, searing former President Jonathan and his administration. He alleged that Jonathan was “clannish” and that he was promoting an Ijaw agenda. He also alleged that the immediate past president was arming militants, and that he had pencilled down 1000 people for crucifixion. Obasanjo surmised that Jonathan was training a special killer squad like that of Abacha which would dispatch political opponents to the place

S U N DAY N E W S PA P E R EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU DEPUTY EDITORS OLAWALE OLALEYE, TOBI SONIYI MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR KAYODE KOMOLAFE CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN MANAGING EDITOR JOSEPH USHIGIALE

T H I S DAY N E W S PA P E R S L I M I T E D EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU, IJEOMA NWOGWUGWU, EMMANUEL EFENI DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS BOLAJI ADEBIYI , PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTORS ERIC OJEH, PATRICK EIMIUHI ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR SAHEED ADEYEMO CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com

asily the most controversial aspect of Buhari’s three-pronged emphasis is his drive against corruption. To date, the administration has tended to view corruption mostly as a vice dominated by its political opponents. There is also a tendency to focus more attention on public sector corruption with errant government officials as predictable targets.

An alternative more holistic approach would see corruption as arising from a degradation of our value system and therefore aim at value re-orientation in addition to the evolution of a system of controls in the public sector that would make large scale looting of the treasury more difficult. In order to acquire greater credibility, the anti-corruption crusade must now depart from a dressed-up partisan witch-hunt. Exhaustive forensic investigation must now replace ad hoc media prosecutions and condemnations of suspects.

In addition, the negative value origins of the present corruption epidemic must come into view. We need an inclusive citizen buy-in for the anti-corruption war to become sustainable.

Meanwhile, what the public expects is an honest admission of the failures of the last four years with a view to adopting better policies and programmes. In this regard, the government must quickly depart from the unfortunate practice of blaming the opposition and the administrations it succeeded for the ills of the nation. The time has come to assume total responsibility for the fate and fortunes of the country. The president was not re-elected to pass the buck of responsibility or endlessly seek the faults of his predecessors. He was elected to lead a nation in good times and bad times alike.

The mantle and challenge of direct responsibility means that Buhari must quickly move to guarantee the peace, security and safety of all Nigerians on every inch of our national space. While the military’s role in internal security may be justified by the present magnitude of the problem, the objective should be to sufficiently stabilise the security situation and then restore the primacy of the police on matters of normal internal security.

The previous anomaly where the president did not appoint a cabinet for months on end would no longer go down well with Nigerians. The president must therefore quickly hit the ground running by forwarding to the Senate his nominees for the next cabinet so that there is no disruption in the tempo and flow of the business of government. Whatever may have been the verdict on his first four years in office, the people who have now extended President Buhari’s mandate for another term expect better times ahead.

We wish him success.

TO OUR READERS Letters in response to specific publications in THISDAY should be brief (150-200 words) and straight to the point. Interested readers may send such letters along with their contact details to opinion@thisdaylive.com. We also welcome comments and opinions on topical local, national and international issues provided they are well-written and should also not be longer than (950- 1000 words). They should be sent to opinion@thisdaylive.com along with the email address and phone numbers of the writer.

We Must All Be Fulani yonder.

Hear him: “...Allegation of keeping over 1000 people on political watch-list rather than criminal or security watch-list and training snipers and other armed personnel secretly and clandestinely acquiring weapons to match for political purposes like Abacha and training them where Abacha trained his own killers....”

“Mr. President would always remember that he was elected to maintain security for all Nigerians and protect them. And no one should prepare to kill or maim Nigerians for personal or political ambition or interest of anyone.”

Obasanjo’s conspiracy theory turned out to be a hoax of cataclysmic proportions. But it became evident that he conjured this ruse from his pouch of tricks for political reasons, and that it was deployed in the desperation

to get Jonathan out of office.

Now, the former president says there is a subterranean plot to “Fulanise and Islamise” the whole of Nigeria. But is it not curious that he levelled similar allegations of promoting ethnicity and arming militants against the Jonathan administration?

One thing is clear, Nigeria is a deeply fractured country; so fractured that the ethnic group of the leadership and other nationalities will always be at one another’s jugular. In fact, there will always be recriminations and accusations of ethnic dominance for as long as the present unwieldy structure is propped up.

As a matter of fact, fears of ethnic dominance are as old as Nigeria’s politics. It was one of the reasons for the 1966 coup; it was one of the reasons for the pogroms in the north; it was one

of the reasons for the civil war, and it is the reason for the groundswell of conspiracy theories today.

If tomorrow, there is a president of Igbo extraction; naturally, there will be accusations of “Igbonisation and Christianisation” of the whole country and institutions. This is how divided Nigeria is.

However, there have been crimes – kidnapping and banditry - perpetrated by some persons of Fulani extraction across the country. But sadly, this criminality has been shaded as the “invasion and expansionism agenda of the Fulani”.

Really, what has given voice to this flawed theory is the ethnicity of the current leadership of the country.

I think, it is injudicious to link these criminals to a grand plot of ethnic colonisation hatched by the government.

However, I must admit, these suggestions have been enabled by the poor handling of the security challenge by

the leadership.

By and large, as I said in my interview on Newsday on BBC World News Service, London, in January, the Fulani common folk have been largely abandoned on the fringes of society for so long. Some of them are without knowledge of government or any institution. How do we integrate them into society? How do we make them functional members of society? We cannot keep ignoring and stereotyping them? We must think Fulani and understand that all Nigerians matter.

We will only kindle the fire if we keep spinning theories of hate and fear.

The Fulani herder who takes his cattle on a stroll in the field is not your enemy; your enemy are those who pit you against the herder, but sit in the national assembly raking in millions without making laws that will make the country workable.

––Fredrick Nwabufo, fredricknwabufo@yahoo.com.

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T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R ˾ MAY 26, 2019

NEWS FG’s Social Investment Programme Made No Impact, Says Aisha Buhari

Acting News Editor Gboyega Akinsanmi E-mail: gboyega.akinsanmi@thisdaylive.com, 08081986590

t Queries the use of $16m fund for mosquito nets t Expresses concern on release of N12bn for trauma cases at twilight of government Omololu Ogunmade in Abuja Wife of Nigeria’s president, Aisha Buhari, yesterday launched a ferocious attack on federal government’s much celebrated

social investment programme (SIP), describing it as a failure, particularly in the Northern part of the country.

Aisha who made this allegation while having an interactive

session with women in the Presidential Villa, said even though the manager of the programme, Mrs. Maryam Uwais, who is a Senior Special Assistant to the President on Social Investment Programme

(SIP), hails from Kano State, the programme is also a failure in her state.

Aisha who said she had kept quiet before now to avoid being accused of raising alarm, also

BUILDING LEGISLATIVE COOPERATION

L-R: House Leader, Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Hon. Udo Akpan; Speaker of the assembly, Hon. Onofiok Luke; State Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel; Deputy Speaker, Hon. Felicia Bassey and the Chief Whip, Hon. Emmanuel Bassey at the workshop on Advisory Commitee on Parliamentary Matters of the assembly in Lagos... recently ETOP UKUTT

described the programme as equally a failure in her own state of Adamawa, where according to her, only one of the existing 22 local governments has so far benefitted from the programme.

Querying how the whooping N500 billion budgeted for the programme is being spent, Mrs. Buhari, also said the conditional cash transfer arm of the programme is not getting to the target beneficiaries as promised by the All Progressives Congress (APC) during its electioneering campaign.

She also alleged that the promise made to her by an aide of the president that N30,000 women in Adamawa State would be given N10,000 had remained a farce as the promise is never fulfilled.

Her words: “Concerning the N500bn voted for SIP, that was part of 2015 campaigns where they promised to give out N10,000, feed pupils in primary schools and give N5,000 to the poorest of the poorer.

“The SSA to the president on social investment is a lady from Kano and I’m sure that my husband decided to put somebody from Kano because of the population and political impact it made. I have never asked how the money is being used or is being given out.

“I met barrister (one of the president’s aides on SIP) once and he promised me that for my state

(Adamawa), we should get 30,000 women to be given N10,000. Up till now, I haven’t heard from him.

“I don’t want to raise alarm that my state does not benefit from it - where SGF came from - I kept quiet because I don’t want people to say that I talk too much. “Recently, I saw a 74-year-old man selling petty things in Kano. I asked him how much is his capital. He told me between N3,000 and N4,000. Don’t forget that we have campaigned to give the poorest of the poor, N5,000 every month.

“So I don’t know where the social investment.. Maybe, it worked out in some states. In my own state, only a local government benefited out of the 22. I didn’t ask what happened and I don’t want to know but for it to fail woefully in Kano, it’s not a good sign and it’s not a good thing.

“We have a lot of women that do business locally. Due to the cultural thing in the North, they are at home doing their businesses.

Some are millionaires. Some have thousands of naira. They need the assistance but they do not get it. Most Northern women do not belong to any market association “I was expecting that N500 billion to be utilised in different methods in the north for the aim to be achieved. I don’t know the method they used but most of the northern states do not get it. My states do not get.”

Clark Asks FG to Evolve Better Strategies to Fight Insecurity, Poverty tBuhari, Jonathan congratulate Clark at 92 Deji Elumoye and Omololu Ogunmade in Abuja Elder statesman and former Federal Commissioner of Information, Chief Edwin Clarke yesterday urged President Muhammadu Buhari to evolve more practical strategies towards addressing the rising level of insecurity and poverty in the country.

Also, President Muhammadu Buhari and former President Goodluck extolled Clarke’s virtues on the occasion

of his 92nd birthday anniversary, commending him for remaining committed in his advocacy for equity, resource and environmental justice.

Clarke made the call at his Asokoro residence, Abuja on his 92nd anniversary, frowning at the manner in which politicians and respected leaders “encourage nepotism, favoritism, religious and ethnic sentiments pointing out that these had promoted hatred and disunity in the country.”

Concerned about the rising

Irona Pledges to Chase Criminals Away from Imo Imo State Deputy Governor-elect, Hon. Gerald Irona yesterday disclosed that the government of the Peoples Democratic Party in the state would chase criminals out of public offices if voted into power in the forthcoming governorship election in Imo State.

Irona stated this while receiving youth of Egbuoma community in Oguta Local Government Area under the aegis of Ubokwu Youth Solidarity Forum during a courtesy visit at the weekend.

He blamed the political class in Egbuoma community for the absence of government presence in the area, promising to right the wrongs. He

identified youth empowerment and commercial agriculture as central to their blueprint for development.

He however mentioned some of the developmental projects he attracted to Egbuoma community while serving as House of Assembly member, Local Government Chairman and federal lawmaker to include electricity, water, political appointments, health center, among others.

He challenged the community “to mention any public office holder from the community that has done as much as he did for the community. I have done so much for Egbuoma community.

incidence of insecurity nationwide, Clarke said he chose not to celebrate his birthday because of the issues of insecurity and biting hardship, which according to him, had become daily experience of Nigerians across the federation.

He said, “I am pained; my heart bleeds for our dear Country, Nigeria. And it is the reason why l have decided not to celebrate, again, this time. I cannot be celebrating when people are being killed, maimed, rendered homeless.

I cannot be celebrating when kids who could be my grandchildren and great grandchildren are abducted and held captive. Here are lots of things wrong, ranging from the question of equality and diversity, economy, infrastructural development; unemployment; lack of power and most importantly; security.

“I have decided to dwell my 92nd Birthday message again on security, because the security situation all over the country is very troubling and

Maharaj Ji Opposes CAN on Religious Quota System Kayode Fasua Leader of the One Love Family, Satguru Maharaj Ji, has berated the leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and other religious leaders, in their recent demand for the use of quota system along religious line, in electing leaders of the yet-to-be-constituted ninth National Assembly.

Maharaj Ji, in a statement he issued in Lagos at the weekend, particularly frowned at CAN’s demand that more Christians deserved to be elected at the National Assembly and also offered more appointments at the executive arm of government.

Rationalising the association’s

demand, Maharaj Ji stated, “CAN’s demand is a shameless worship of quota system, which constitutes a major source of mediocrity in Nigeria’s government institutions and agencies.

“Known officially as federal character, appointment to high and sensitive government offices by quota system is one of the several ‘satans’ that sustain the neo-colonial deity of backwardness in selfgoverning.

“CAN cannot deny the carnage that religion is known for in the modern world, except it chooses to defecate on the clean-white robe of moral truth and urinate on the priceless pages of authentic world history.”

is gravely affecting every facet of the country’s activity. The nation’s Constitution is clear when it states that the primary responsibility of government is to secure lives and property.”

Clark said the issue of security has become a bane and n at i o n a l/i nt e r n at i o n a l embarrassment for us as a people and a nation.

He lamented that killing, kidnapping, rape, burning down of towns and villages, cattle rustling have now become the order of the

day perpetrated by a group which the federal government has identified as ‘bandits,’ ‘herdsmen.’

Yet, the elder statesmen claimed that nothing “is being done to arrest them, rather it is alleged that government officials collude with the criminals.”

He, therefore, urged Nigerians to strive towards achieving strong unity to be able to fight insurgency which he noted was pushing the country to the brink.

Bamidele Urges Fayemi to Defend National Interest Victor Ogunje in Ado Ekiti Former Commissioner for Information and Strategy in Lagos State, Hon. Opeyemi Bamidele yesterday charged the new Chairman of Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), Dr Kayode Fayemi to pursue national interest with patriotic zeal for his reign to be memorable.

Bamidele, also a senator-elect representing Ekiti Central, also urged Fayemi not to sacrifice those interests that would be of immeasurable values to the lives of Nigerians for primordial sentiments, saying it “is the best way to inscribe his name on the sand of time as patriotic national leader.”

He gave the advice in a con-

gratulatory letter he addressed to Fayemi yesterday, commending his bravery to vie for such a plum seat among the 36 governors, which had confirmed his administrative and political competence to be able to lead such a sophisticated body.

Bamidele urge him to prove his mettle the way he did in Ekiti, where his development programmes had made him a darling of many, who perceived him as an accomplished and uncompromising public servant .

He said, “Let me congratulate Fayemi for adding another fitted and colourful cap to his feather with this appointment. He has proved to be a leader that can be trusted in Ekiti.

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T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R ˾ MAY 26, 2019

NEWSXTRA Zamfara Verdict May Tighten Senate Leadership Contest Lawan: Judgement won’t affect my chances Iyobosa Uwugiaren and Deji Elumoye in Abuja With Friday’s judgement of the Supreme Court nullifying the elections of all the candidates of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Zamfara State in the last general election, the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) now has an additional 10 National Assembly members-elect from the state. This can potentially alter calculations in the jostle for the leadership of the ninth National Assembly.

However, the Senate Leader, seeking the position of the Senate President in the incoming ninth Senate said yesterday that the ruling by the Supreme Court, which granted victory to the opposition Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) would not affect his chances of emerging the Senate President in June.

He told journalists in Abuja stated that whereas the development amounts to a setback for the ruling All Progressives Congress(APC), his camp was not worried because it has reached out to all Senators across party divides.

Lawan said that the ruling APC was still capable of producing the presiding officers of the Senate and the House of

representatives despite the loss in Zamfara.

He also stated that as a contestant for the post of Senate President, he has been telling his story to all Senators across the geopolitical zones and across party lines, adding that the lawmakers are receptive to his messages and are willing to give him a chance.

“The Supreme Court judgement on Zamfara State was a setback to the ruling party because the APC lost three senators and seven or eight in the House of Representatives. This leaves us with a new set of numbers of representation in the 9th Assembly.

“The APC had 65 senators before judgement, now the APC has 62. PDP now has 44 because it had 41 before Friday’s judgement while the Young Progressive Party has one. As it is now, there are two cases that are yet to be determined in Imo State.

“The case of that of the outgoing Governor of the state, Rochas Okorocha and that of Senator Ben Uwajumogu which we are anticipating will be won by the APC. If we have these two, we will have 64 from the APC which makes us to be in the majority.

“But, for me, the issue is not the distribution or the majority.

Air Strikes Decimate Terrorists in Borno Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja Fighter jets of the combined forces of the Air Task Force Operation Lafiya Dole and Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) yesterday carried out air strikes in Tumbun Hamma on the fringes of Lake Chad, killing many fighters of the Islamic State for West Africa (ISWAP).

The air strikes is coming as the British Military Advisory Training Team (BMATT) and the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) graduated a new set of participants on Joint Operational Campaign Planning Course to furtherenhanceongoingmilitaryjoint operationswithinthecountry.

An update on the ongoing war against insurgency provided by Nigerian Air Force Spokesman, Air Commodore Ibikunle Daramola, said the air strikes were carried out after an earlier bombardment by the Nigerian, NigerienandChadianAirForces.

He said the devastating air strikes inflictedheavycasualtiesontheinsurgents.

“The air strikes were conducted following credible intelligence reports indicatingthattheterrorists, who had fled the series of air strikes conducted by Nigerian, Nigerien and Chadian Air Forces, around the Malkanori-Tumbun Rego general axis of northern Borno State, had

converged in Tumbun Hamma.

“The attack was preceded by series of Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR)missions which confirmed heavy presence of terrorists in several structures, along with their logistics items, spread across the small settlement.

“Accordingly, the ATF scrambled an Alpha Jet aircraft to attack the location, recording a successful direct hit in the center of the target area leading to the neutralisation of several terrorists as well as the destruction of their structures and logistics”, he said.

Meanwhile, the British Military Advisory Team and the Defence Headquarters graduated more participants in the Joint Operational Campaign Planning Course to further enhance ongoing military joint operations within the country.

A statement issued by Defence Spokesman, Col Onyema Nwachukwu, said thirty participants comprising senior officers from the military, paramilitary and senior level staff drawn from Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) of government graduated on Friday 24 May, 2019 in a ceremony held at the Defence Intelligence College (DIC), Abuja.

Group Holds Conference on Women Inclusion Light House Women (LHW) has announced its sixth personal development conference with focus on diversity and inclusion scheduled to hold on June 8.

The LHW, a network of women working in corporate organisations, said in a statement that the conference would have an all-men speaking panel, though will be moderated by two leading ladies.

The statement by one of the programme initiators,

Nkiru Olumide said the panel has four generations of men discussing how to support the advancement of the working woman.

It added that Managing Director of Hygeia HMO, Obinnia Abajue; Group Head Marketing and Communications for Access Bank, Amaechi Okobi; Managing Director of Red Media, Debola Williams, and Tafar Osisiye Author of fifty percent of a true story are billed to share their views.

What is important is our ability to come together to work for the interest of Nigerians in every part of the country.

We have the responsibility to work for the betterment of Nigerians because, if there is a crisis, there wouldn’t be a distinction between an APC member or the PDP. The crisis will affect all of us”, he stated.

The senate leader also denied reports which indicated that

Nigerian lawmakers are the highest paid in the world.

In a related development, an Owerri High Court has issued an order restraining the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from issuing the Certificate of Return for the Imo West senatorial election until the determination of a suit before it. The order followed a motion by the PDP candidate, James Onyereri, seeking

an interlocutory injunction restraining INEC from declaring the Imo State governor and candidate of APC, Rochas Okorocha, winner of the senatorial election.

The 10 new additions to PDP federal legislators-elect include three senators and seven members of the House of Representatives, which brings the total number of PDP Senators to 44, as against 62 by the APC. The

Young Peoples Party (YPP) has one senator, and two senatorial results are yet to be declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

In the House, PDP now has 130 members-elect, and APC has 203, while the remaining 27 seats are shared by YPP, African Democratic Party (ADP), and African Democratic Movement (ADM), among other smaller parties.

PROMOTING LOCAL PRODUCTS

L-R: National President, Nigerian-American Chamber of Commerce, Otunba Oluwatoyin Akomolafe; Globacom’s State Manager, SME, Marie Macfoy; Commercial Counselor, US Mission to Nigeria, Brent Omdahl and Director General, Nigerian-American Chamber of Commerce, Joyce Akpata at the Glo-sponsored third African Food and Products Exhibition held in Lagos... Friday

You Don’t Have Power to Conduct Tests for Police, Lawyer Tells JAMB Tobi Soniyi A legal practitioner, Mr. Geoffey Oparaji has written to the Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, Prof.

Ishaq Oloyede asking him to stop violating the statue that established the organisation.

The lawyer accused the registrar of violating its statue in a letter dated April 5, noting that the law establishing JAMB forbade the organisation from conducting examinations and aptitude tests for non educational institutions.

He, however, commended the

JAMB registrar for the achievements he had recorded so far.

According to him, 5(1)(a) and (2) of the the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, Act Chapter 193 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria restricts JAMB to conducting examinations for only educational institutions.

The letter to the JAMB Registrar read: “I humbly refer you to the provisions of section 5(1) (a) and (2) of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, Act that provides thus: Section 5(1)(a) stated, “Notwith-

standing the provisions of any other enactment, the Board shall be responsible for the general control of the conduct of matriculation examinations for admissions into all universities, polytechnics, (by whatever name called in Nigeria. ‘”For the avoidance of doubt, the Board shall be responsible for determining matriculation requirements and conducting examination leading to undergraduate admissions and also for admission to National Diploma and the Nigeria Certificate in Education courses but shall not be responsible for examinations

or any other selective process for post-graduate courses and any other courses offered by the tertiary institutions.”

The lawyer argued that the above provisions restricted JAMB only to conducting examinations listed in the said Act. He, therefore, accused the JAMB of acting with total disregard for its enabling law.

He wrote: “I specifically refer you to the Board’s recent involvement in the Nigeria Police recruitment of staff and personnel. That is, selection and conducting test examinations.

Police Arrest Soldier, Three Katsina APGA Elects New Others over Alleged Kidnapping Officials David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka The Anambra State Police Command yesterday disclosed that its operatives had a serving Nigerian soldier and three others in military uniforms for allegedly kidnapping a young man in Ekwulobia, Aguata Local Government Area.

The command identified the soldier as Lance Corporal Ojiegbe Obinna, who it claimed, was currently serving at 101 Special Forces Battalion, Nigerian Army, Maiduguri, Borno State.

The Police Public Relations Officer, Haruna Mohammed disclosed this at a session with THISDAY yesterday, noting that the victim, Uchenna Ezeonu was rescued unhurt.

He identified other two as Obasi Peter and Benjamin Nicholas, who were said to have abducted one Ezeonu of Omeke village, Ekwulobia and whisked him away to

unknown destination.

THISDAY learnt that the suspects were arrested in a bush along Uyo-Eke market road by police men attached to Operation Puff Adder in conjunction with Joint Patrol teams.

Mohammed, a Superintendent of Police, said there was a distress call along Isuofia road in Aguata LGA of Anambra State on May 24 at about 11:am, that three persons in military uniforms abducted around Ekwulobia Roundabout one Ezeonu ‘m’ of Omeke village Ekwulobia and whisked him away to unknown destination.

With the distress call, Mohammed said police Operatives attached “to operation Puff Adder in conjunction with Joint Patrol teams rushed to the scene and cordoned off the entire area in search of the hoodlums along the bush path by Uyo-Eke market road.

Francis Sardauna in Katsina The All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Katsina State, has elected new members of the State Working Committees that will spearhead the affairs of the party for the next four years.

At the congress conducted on Friday and attended by virtually all APGA stalwarts and election umpires in the state, Alhaji Lawal Barmo emerged the state chairman of the party.

Other officials elected at the congress are Mohammed Saulawa, who emerged as the party’s deputy chairman; Habibu Madami, secretary; Lawal Mani, treasurer, while the post of organizing secretary went to Umar Yahaya.

After the congress, Barmo promised to work toward repositioning the party and uniting members to reclaim its past glory in the state and at the country at large.

He commended delegates for

the confidence reposed in the new executive members while promising to give them the opportunity to contribute for the development and success of the party come 2023 general election.

According to him, we have conducted our state congress and you have graciously elected me and my colleagues to lead the party. We shall work for the success of the party in the next general election in line with the party’s constitution.

Barmo assured that he would not betray members of the party, urging them “to abide by the constitution of our great party and also allow for level playing for all members.”

Also at the congress, the party’s National Financial Secretary, Alhaji Ibrahim Garba, tasked the newly elected officials to rejig APGA in the state and carry everyone along irrespective of religious or tribal affiliations.

T H I S D AY • SUNDAY MAY 26, 2019

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T H I S D AY • SUNDAY MAY 26, 2019

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T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R ˾ MAY 26,2019

OPINION

AFRICA AND THE ANTI-CORRUPTION GENERATION An enabling environment is imperative for an anti-corruption campaign to thrive, writes Bethel Obioma

T

he World Economic Forum’s (WEF) Partnership Against Corruption Initiative (PACI) held its Bi-Annual Community meeting in Switzerland between the 21-22nd of May. The above topic was discussed by WEF’s Global Shapers who shared their perspectives of the young generation on anti-corruption. I would like to look at this topic, albeit, from a sub-Saharan African perspective.

Whilst acknowledging that Africa is not one homogenous unit, I have however sought to establish threads that should have applicability across a significant number of sub-Saharan African countries.

The World Bank has defined corruption as the abuse of entrusted power for private gain. It can be classified as grand and petty, depending on the amount of money lost and the sector where it occurs. Corruption cuts across various levels of government and is a major inhibitor of political and economic development and a sustainable future.

Currently, corruption exists on an alarming scale as the Corruption Perception Index (CPI) shows that majority of countries are making little or no progress in ending corruption.

The 2017 ranking which ranks 180 countries and territories by their perceived levels of public sector corruption, according to experts and businesspeople, uses a scale of 0 to 100, where 0 is highly corrupt and 100 is very clean. The index found that more than two-thirds of countries score below 50, with an average score of 43.

Globally, 11 out the 20 countries perceived to be most corrupt are in Africa. In Africa, about 90% of the countries struggle with high levels of corruption which is mostly characterized by poor accountability of government officials, corrupt judicial systems which in turn affects the various sectors of a countries economy and the populace as a whole.

A simple observation is that whilst no country earns a perfect score on the CPI, countries on the high performing end are those dedicated to the preservation of the democratic rights of their citizens and also importantly, those countries with a higher per capita income. The inverse is the case at the bottom end of the CPI ranking as expected- the worst performing countries are those for example just emerging from decades-long wars and those with limited regard for the value of their citizens who as

such fail to uphold the democratic rights of their citizens.

In speaking about democracy, I will refer to the Freedom House definition which is, countries characterised by free and fair elections; strong and independent institutions; political rights, like the right to protest; civil rights like access to a free trial.

In the last seven years, only 20 countries significantly improved their CPI scores, including three from Africa: Rwanda, Senegal, and Côte D’Ivoire.

Delia Ferreira Rubio, chair of Transparency International has said in recent report that: “Our research makes a clear link between having a healthy democracy and successfully fighting public sector corruption. Corruption is much more likely to flourish where democratic foundations are weak and, as we have seen in many countries, where undemocratic and populist politicians can use it to their advantage.”

Right across the world, populist leadership is gaining momentum. There are clear lessons to be learnt and avoided here in Africa as there is an established link between high corruption rates and increased support for populist leaders. Currently, 40% of populist leaders across the world are also indicted on corruption charges (ref: Tony Blair Institute for Global Change). Many said populist leaders have attained their position sadly by mobilizing the anti-corruption generation. Throughout the world, political leaders who run

Corruption is much more likely to flourish where democratic foundations are weak and, as we have seen in many countries, where undemocratic and populist politicians can use it to their advantage

on a populist platform are gaining power and undermining democracy.

What exactly is an anti-corruption generation? One in which the government, businesses, civil society and everyday people live and conduct their affairs in a manner that is free of corruption.

The generation that it is hoped will produce this corruptionfree world majorly consists of the ‘Millennials’ with ages ranging between 18 and34 years or more generally termed as the youth.

They are best positioned for achieving this vision because they are just entering the workforce and will begin to assume leadership positions over the next decade. If they do not act, they will live with the consequences of today’s corruption the longest.

Today’s generation of youth is the largest ever, and makes up 1.8 billion leaders of tomorrow. Their engagement and ideas are critical to our success for achieving an anti-corruption generation and bringing a fresh take on the status quo.

Whilst acknowledging the potential that the millennials possess in reality, they will be faced with a wide range of challenges on the sub-Saharan African continent where a large percentage of the millennials face difficulties that their contemporaries in more developed nations will never have to contemplate. It is estimated that 62 per cent of people in sub-Saharan Africa are still without access to electricity. This coupled with the absence of the most basic social safety net that guarantees, food, clothing and housing to the youth unduly exposes them to the regime of unscrupulous practices across the continent.

In addition, young people are further exposed to corruption as students, voters, workers and customers. This exposure to corruption occurs in many ways: from demands for bribes to secure admission into learning institutions, get employment, obtain business permits and licenses, to being bribed as voters and receiving cash handouts from politicians to cause violence during elections. It may not be easy to successfully execute the fight against corruption, but it is highly imperative for collaboration on a global development framework to help bolster the cause of empowering this anti-corruption generation.

––Obioma is of Corporate Communications, Sahara Group Ltd, Lagos.

(See concluding part on www.thisdaylive.com)

Waiting for The Discovery of Nigeria Uzor Maxim Uzoatu writes that the country must brace up and tackle the issue of nationhood

F

orget all the fine words about Mungo Park discovering the River Niger. What urgently needs to be discovered is the country called Nigeria where the River Niger flows.

The mere fact that Lord Frederick Lugard amalgamated the Northern and Southern Protectorates in 1914 and got his paramour Flora Shaw to name the country Nigeria does not in itself make for the discovery of a nation. A lot of people may not know that the River Niger, after which Nigeria is supposedly named, bears the imprimatur of the offensive word “Nigger”. This way, Nigeria only stands for “Nigger area”. In short, there are so many questions needing urgent answers before we can truly talk of the real discovery of Nigeria.

These are some of the fundamental issues that the National Confab delegates ought to be tackling instead of debating on the allowances of drivers and concubines! There is the need to ask very hard questions about our country for us to attain a measure of nationhood. The country has just celebrated the centenary of the amalgamation but there exists so much work to be done. As Chinua Achebe said, Nigeria is neither our father nor our mother, but a child who needs to be nurtured and brought up properly. Our work is therefore before us all.

Nigeria’s first President Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe famously said that the country won her independence in 1960 “on a platter of gold.”

But Zik’s great rival Chief Obafemi Awolowo, first Premier of the Western Region, did raise the crucial issue of Nigeria being “a mere geographical expression.” Against Zik’s charge that the many nationalities of Nigeria should forget their differences to forge ahead, the then Northern Premier Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto, countered by asserting that what was needed was for the different nationalities to understand the differences of the diverse peoples. It is amid the cacophony of voices that Nigeria has trudged along over the years without any homogenizing leader actually emerging to lend a measure of direction to the country.

The country courted disaster from the very beginning. The colonizing British masters did not hide the fact that amalgamation was effected to get the Southern “lady of means” to keep alive the arid North. It is against this background of not really growing the talents of the two protectorates that the country was launched forth onto flag independence, standing on three unsteady and unequal legs. The early politicians simply saw themselves as inheriting the mantle of leadership from the departing erstwhile white masters.

Democracy was compromised from the very beginning to ensure a script of hegemony authored in Westminster!

Wole Soyinka wrote his play A Dance of the Forests to mark the independence ceremonies, prophetically listing the war of the tribes as a dark future to behold. Chinua Achebe in his 1966 novel A Man of the People prophesied a gruesome passage of coups and counter-coups.

The five young army majors who idealistically staged the bloody 1966 coup did not reckon with the acidic dimensions of the country’s diabolical geo-politics. The bloodier revenge coup of the selfsame year was forged as a means of secession by the North, with cries of “Araba” renting the air, until the British masters ordered a rethink on the part of the hotheaded lot remorselessly marching to arid extinction. The inheritor Yakubu Gowon’s initial speech that “there was no basis for unity” in Nigeria had to be changed to some patriotic marshmallow.

Of course the civil war supervened, but ages on, no lessons have been learnt. The country continues to teeter on the brink of disaster. It has to be admitted that in many accounts Gowon distinguished himself as a humane war leader, but he was quite naïve in the grave business of founding a country, especially when it is remembered that he told the wide world that Nigeria’s problem was not money but how to spend it!

General Murtala Muhammed who succeeded Gowon had too much baggage in his past to really make the difference. In his haste to clean the Augean Stable he ended up ruining the civil service though he must be given the credit for raising Nigeria’s profile in the fight against imperialism.

General Olusegun Obasanjo has enjoyed two incarnations as the leader of Nigeria, but he cannot in good conscience be credited with showing any kind of direction toward the discovery of the nation. He did receive worldwide applause for quitting power in aid of the enthronement of democracy during his first coming, but the election he organized was fraught with problems in view of the 12 2/3 imbroglio that pitched President Shehu Shagari against Chief Obafemi Awolowo.

Even so, it was in his second coming, this time as a supposedly elected democratic President that Obasanjo completely exposed himself as lacking in the necessary credentials needed in the founding of nations. Unlike nation-founders and discoverers such as Lee Kuan Yew of Singapore and Dr Mahathir of Malaysia Obasanjo lacked the gumption to understand that nations are not built on platitudes. Of course time soon ran out on the man from Ota while he was furiously campaigning for the elongation of his tenure through the ignoble Third Term project. The man

he handpicked as the nation’s leader, President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, died ever so suddenly, symbolically showing that Obasanjo’s legacy was built on quicksand.

Every nation in history must confront and master its own road to Damascus. Mighty America, for instance, used to be a fiefdom of Britain. It took the writings of fine minds, especially Thomas Paine in his pamphlet Commonsense, to challenge Britain’s superintendence over America. This was the intellectual muster needed for the American War of Independence, culminating in the true discovery of America by its founding fathers such as John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Alexander Hamilton, John Jay, Thomas Jefferson,James Madison, and George Washington as opposed to starry-eyed adventurers like Christopher Columbus and Amerigo Vespucci!

Before he passed on, Chinua Achebe dropped the bombshell of a book entitled There Was A Country: A Personal History of Biafra. Beyond all the controversies that the book elicited, there is the nagging fear that we must perforce reclaim our country from the forces of anomie.

Nigerian is today poised on threshold of monumental historical contradictions. When Sharia was introduced in the course of Obasanjo’s tenure people expected the then president to put a stop on the matter as Nigeria was deemed a secular state constitutionally. Obasanjo dismissed it all as “political Sharia” that will soon peter out. The initial seed planted has now grown into the monster called Boko Haram, a terrorist endgame poised ostensibly on a complete Islamization of Nigeria through the killing of everybody within sight.

The abduction of more than 200 girls from the federal secondary school in Chibok gave Nigeria a global kick on the solar plexus. Bombings and assassinations became daily and nightly rituals of current Nigerian life. The then President Goodluck Jonathan had to pay a steep price with his presidency.

The hope in many quarters was that the coming of President Muhammadu Buhari would lead to a national redemption.

Regret is all the rage today. The variants of so-called bandits, Fulani herdsmen, killer kidnappers and the sort have literally brought Nigeria on its knees with even a “One-Nigeria” veteran addict such as Obasanjo lamenting the looming “Fulanization” of the country. The heart of the matter is that a country cannot forever exist in suspended animation. What faces Nigeria today is the eternal question posed by Chernychevsky and taken up by Lenin in old Russia: “What is to be done?”

T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R ˾ MAY 26,2019

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LETTERS Lagos and The Coming Rains

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n Lagos, a few days back, the heavens opened and it rained profusely. If the enormity of the recent rainfall is anything to go by, Lagos residents must gear up for more of such fierce moments in the coming days.

Indeed, experts have predicted that the intensity of this year’s rains will be more than what we had in the past. For instance, the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) had earlier predicted “extended rains for areas in and around Adamawa, Ogun, Edo, Niger Delta and low-lying areas such as Lagos.

As Lagosians await the rains, certain issues need to be put into proper perspective.

First is the topography of Lagos. A critical feature of Lagos topography is that the state is essentially made up of low lying terrain up to 0.4 per cent below the sea level.

Naturally, this arrangement is the source of huge drainage challenges that confront the state. If this is added to the volume of rain that is being experienced in the state lately,

Lagos State Commissioner for Environment, Adejare it would be realized that there is possibly no way there would not be flash flooding in Lagos.

Second, certain negative practices such as indiscrimi-

nate dumping of refuse and blockade of drainages easily aid flooding. This is often rampant in markets and other commercial centres as well as densely populated areas in the

state. Often, the effects of such poor sanitary habit on affected residents are unquantifiable and devastating. Some have been rendered homeless and miserable, no thanks to human induced environmental hazards. Thus, we all need to fully embrace the culture of proper waste disposal, comply with building regulations, tap into alternative energy use, and pay necessary attention to sanitation issues among others.

Lagosians must be ready to cooperate with the state government by embracing positive attitude in their response to the environment.

These include proper waste disposal, compliance with building regulations, embracing alternative energy use, paying necessary attention to sanitation issues, not building structures on drainage channels, flood plains and on water pathways.

As always, the state government is committed to a cleaner environment and quality public health through implementation of community based solid waste management, flood control, vegetal

Bomb From The US Embassy

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he biting and harsh reality of the Nigerian economy has made migration very attractive. Right from the time of military rule, professionals and non-professionals alike have been fleeing the country that touts itself as the ‘Giant of Africa’ in droves in order to have a semblance of a decent life for themselves and their families.

Countries like the United States, Canada, United Kingdom remain on top of the list of the destination of these fortune seekers. Travel agents both scrupulous and unscrupulous have a field day fleecing these desperate travellers of their hard earned money which in some instances can set up viable businesses in the country – I am not canvassing against travelling as it’s an individual decision .

The United States is the most attractive because it’s the world’s most powerful and prosperous nation. Nigerians are prepared to do anything to enter Uncle Sam as it is fondly called. Previously, if you get a two-year visa, you submit your passport for renewal in the drop box when it expires.

In most cases, the visa renewal is as good as granted.

It was with a huge shock that Nigerians woke up to the news that the United States Embassy had decided to stop the drop box system in favour of an oral interview.

Getting the visa in the first place in most cases is akin to an elephant passing through the eye of a needle and when gotten, the joy of not facing the consular officer in an interview for renewal is better imagined. Some even throw parties after a successful visa interview.

This news is extremely

bad and a black day for many intending Yankee first time goers or returnees. The dream of many berthing at the John Fitzgerald Kennedy International Airport has been blown into smithereens as the consular officers will definitely drastically reduce the number of visas that they grant.

The officers are no simpletons – they know many of the interviewees are economic asylum seekers as the economy gets worse by the day. They are aware of the fact that many Nigerians have devised smart ways to escape the repression from their home country and have crammed ways to make their visa application look extremely convincing.

Nigerians will do anything legitimate or otherwise to ‘port’ from the most populous nation in sub-Saharan Africa to anywhere. It is so bad that visa denials are now even being gotten from far flung nations like Vietnam and Thailand which have daunting economic and political challenges. Our fellow countrymen don’t mind being economic migrants in these countries even when they are on the bottom of the global economic index.

The lure of the United States and the fact that it is a country that works despite its gun proliferation challenge and expensive healthcare is one that makes it extremely attractive to lots of Nigerians.

In some cases, many Nigerians with good jobs are known to have resigned their plum positions to start from the bottom of the ladder in the US. Nigerians just want their residences to read New York, California, Texas, Washington D.C., etc. They are sick and tired of the failed state and banana republic that their

dear country with so much promise has tragically fallen into.

Nigeria has neither regard nor respect for all shades of professionals. From medical doctors to nurses and other healthcare workers, engineers, lawyers, journalists, it simply doesn’t give a damn about their welfare which explains why many professionals who have mounting bills to pay flee the country to climes where they are well appreciated and the US is among the countries that greatly appreciates talents and hard work which is why it’s a magnet for many Nigerian professionals. The examples of Nigerians making waves in the US abound – Phillip Emeagwali couldn’t have developed the super computer that processes billions of calculations in seconds if he had remained in Nigeria.

Emeka Echeruo who was said to have sold his company – hopstop for an undisclosed sum to Apple – some analysts posit he did so for the princely $1 billion couldn’t have achieved that feat if he had not left the shores of this country.

Bayo Ogunlesi couldn’t have acquired Gatwick international airport through Global Infrastructure Partners if he hadn’t been privileged to relocate to Uncle Sam. He came back to Nigeria briefly during the Second Republic but the coup made him return to the US. He wouldn’t have been able to acquire two airports if not for his fortuitous move to Yankee. I can go on and on with numerous examples of Nigerians making waves in that country which aptly makes it to be described as God’s own country because of the numerous opportunities.

How many nations can an arts student switch effortlessly to the sciences without much

hassle? How many universities can you study the arts and the sciences at the same time and obtain degrees in both of them at the same time? This is the beauty of the US which many Nigerians do not want to miss for anything in the world. The versatility and flexibility of the system makes it extremely attractive for professionals and non-professionals alike.

The choice of relocating should be a personal one and I criticize the 1984 popular advert which tried to discourage Nigerians from relocating abroad. No government should interfere with this inalienable right. However the onus rests on the government to make the conditions back home attractive enough to discourage Nigerians from resorting to desperate measures to wanting to relocate at all costs. The cost of living should be driven down as well as inflation so that the consular officers don’t assume the place of God in the lives of the interviewees.

Nigerians ought to walk to the embassy with their heads held up high occasioned by the high quality of life obtained from living in a fast developing country and not like some frightened scared cats who want to leave the country via any means.

Malaysians and Singaporeans aren’t desperate to leave their countries. It is a shame that we were once on the same level in the heady days of the 1960’s. Rather than reminisce of the good old days which are nothing short of faded memories, the government should work out modalities of how we can get the nation out of the doldrums so that our passports would have some semblance of prestige in the international comity of nations.

The time to act is now!

––Tony Ademiluyi, Lagos.

control and high standard of home and personal hygiene, sanitation, control of environment pollution (air, water and noise), beautification and advertisement control.

Consequently, its approach to tackling the issue of flooding in the state is multi-faceted and multi-dimensional. It includes dredging, massive construction and expansion of drainage channels, desilting and excavation of silts to dumpsites, regular repair, clearing and cleaning of drainages, canals and collector drains across the state.

Whenever it is observed that the intensity of the rains is high, it is advisable that people vacate flood-prone areas.

Equally, it is also important for the citizenry, especially children to stay indoors in order to reduce movement to the barest minimum. In fact, if it could be avoided, it is better not to drive while it is raining heavily. Similarly, we need to maintain strict personal and environmental hygiene at all times to avoid being victims of water-borne diseases. Also, to mitigate the effects of cold, we must ensure that children and the elderly are properly clothed with warm clothing during the rains. It is only when this is done that we will be able to curb the spread of raininduced health hazard such as cough, cold and other related ones. Additionally, this is the time to embrace the culture of taking plenty of thoroughly washed fruits in order to boost the immune system.

This is in addition to drinking water from only trusted and well- tested safe sources.

Since we now live in a hitech information age, it is also imperative that people listen to news reports and information on weather situation from various available credible media. This will really aid in planning movements and avoiding flood-prone locations. Also, in view of likely destructive thunder strikes that usually accompany windy rainfall, Lagos residents are strongly advised to always disconnect all electrical appliances whenever they want to sleep or go out. This will go a long way in checkmating rain-induced electrical debacles. Similarly, children should be discouraged from touching electrical equipment when wet.

In as much as it is beyond human powers to stop rains, we should, at least, do things that are in our powers to lessen their negative consequences. This includes regular clearing of gutters and drainages in our areas, making use of suitable services to dispose waste, reporting anyone dumping refuse in drains, gutters and canals to appropriate authorities, moving immediately to higher ground when flooding is imminent wherever we are, staying away from submerged electricity cables, cleaning and disinfecting everything that gets wet, staying away from canals and drainages evacuating or leaving danger zones immediately, calling 767 in case of emergency among others.

––Tayo Ogunbiyi, Ministry of Information and Strategy, Alausa, Ikeja.

Another Recession in The Offing?

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he economy will eventually return to recession because of massive unproductive general spending.

Many foreign investors have quietly left Nigeria, in some cases relocating to Ghana where necessary. On the other hand, many local investors out of fear of the prolonged political instability and the growing high level of insecurity, particularly kidnapping, causing harsh business environment, have preferred to sit on the fence.

Also Buhari's so-called reelection is frightening to many of these given that most investors see Buharinomics simply as feudalist socialism where government does not care about the interest of the private sector.

That there is a continuous liquidity crunch because of CBN's efforts to artificially keep the naira strong for two reasons: one, to create false impression of a strong economy and two, to help Emefiele use it to campaign for his second tenure.

Because it is extremely extensive to artificially keep any economy's currency artificially strong, especially import dependent economies

like ours for Buhari's reelection, now that he has been “re-elected”, the CBN has to remove the life support machine.

As a result of all these assaults on the real economy, it is obvious that we are beginning the road to another recession. But it is extremely difficult for any economy to witness two recessions within five years and still survive it. The chief banker of the country Mr. Emefiele fully knows that.

The possible saviour would be if the so-called US-Iran war became a reality because if happens it will raise the price of crude oil to above $100 per barrel. This will mean more production and more oil revenue for Nigeria which will become the shock absorber. Even though no one wishes that Iran and the US should go to war.

Another possible saviour is if Atiku could win at the tribunal. This is because if he does, then, that will quickly bring the eroded confidence to the economy and the return of both foreign and local investors to Nigeria's economy.

––Odilim Enwegbara, Abuja

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T H I S D AY • SUNDAY MAY 26, 2019

T H I S D AY • SUNDAY MAY 26, 2019

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M ͺ;˜ ͺ͸͹΁ ˾ THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER

INTERNATIONAL The Politics of the Iranian Nuclear Deal: Containing the Precipitation of a Russo-American Hot War

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urrently, there is a Cold War between the United States and its European Union allies but this is hardly taken up as a serious matter in international discourses, and yet, the manifestations are there. The Cold War is essentially driven by three factors: fear of nuclear proliferation, policy of ‘America First’ as introduced by President Donald Trump, and Russia’s foreign policy in

Europe.

What really is Cold War and in which way is it different from a hot war? On April 16, 1947, Bernard Baruch, then former adviser to US presidents from Woodrow Wilson to Harry S. Truman, ‘coined the word “Cold War” to describe the increasingly chilly relations between two World War II Allies: the United States and the Soviet Union.’ (vide www.politico.com). As told by Andrew Glass, Baruch used the phrase in a speech to the South Carolina House of Representatives, where his portrait was being unveiled.

In the words of Baruch, ‘let us not be deceived, we are today in the midst of a Cold War. Our enemies are to be found abroad and at home. Let us never forget this: our unrest is the heart of their success.’

Baruch’s observation is quite interesting at two different levels.

The first is that he saw the Cold War in terms of enemies, and the enemies are both at home and abroad. Secondly, he believed that the foreign policy of the enemy states is basically to ensure that there is unrest in the United States. In these two cases, the enemy abroad was the Soviet Union and its allies but the identity of the enemies within the United States was not made known.

The enemy at home may also be interpreted to imply an enemy within the membership of the Western allies, but which of the countries were considered to be the enemy or enemies?

Whatever is the case, the division between the West and the East, and particularly the United States and the Soviet Union, intensified to the extent that Winston Churchill came up with the concept of ‘Iron Curtain’ during his speech in Fulton. Mo., on March 5, 1946. Thereafter, Cold War, as a concept, came into being and continually refers to the tension between the former Soviet Union and its satellites States in Eastern Europe, on the one hand, and the United States and its western allies, on the other.

Tension, in this regard, does not include the use of military force, and when it does, it is done by proxy, but hardly directly.

Rather than the use of military action, emphasis is placed on political and economic propaganda, undermining the national interests of the opposition through their surrogates and proxy wars. The Cold War covered the period from 1947 to 1991, as from which the post-Cold War is believed to have started. Today, the foundation of the rebirth of a new Cold War has been laid under President Donald Trump with his America First and Making America Great Again.

With the policy of ‘America First,’ what is ordinarily known and well understood is that priority will always be given to American interest in all policy calculations, with the ultimate objective of making America great again. However, the modalities of achieving this objective are, at best, not made known. This is one of the reasons why Donald Trump as an individual, as a policy maker, as a president and as a politician has been very controversial and non-predictable. He has a very belligerent foreign policy and offensive attitudinal disposition.

In fact, this is why he has adopted a policy of use of ‘maximum pressure’ and manu militari approach to the conduct and management of United States foreign policy, in such a way that he has to always threaten other sovereign states with ultimatums and sanctionary measures. It is within this frame of mind that the Iranian nuclear deal, the geo-politics of it, as well as the deepening dangers of nuclearisation and efforts at its containment should be explained and understood.

Without doubt, the United States is vehemently against nuclear proliferation, especially in terms of carelessly allowing its access to the terrorists. There is no disputing the fact that hardened extremist Islamic jihadists, who may want to take advantage of its use to do incalculable destruction to humanity, are there as permanent threats. The United States’ fears cannot therefore but be legitimate.

However, there are the other countries who argue that maintenance of their own safety, defence and security cannot be allowed to be put under the carpet and that they not only

VIE INTERNATIONALE with

Bola A. Akinterinwa Telephone : 0807-688-2846

e-mail: bolyttag@yahoo.com

Hassan Rouhani, Iranian President need nuclear arms for their own peaceful purposes but also for deterrence in the event of unprovoked aggression. North Korea, for instance, believes that the United States remains its own arch enemy and that the only country that is most likely to undermine North Korea’s security interest is the United States. This is one of the main reasons why North Korea has to withdraw from the non-proliferation of nuclear weapons agreement in order to develop nuclear capability in response to the United States.

In the same vein, Iran wants to develop nuclear capacity and capability which, again, the United States is opposed to. In order to manage Iran’s ambition, and particularly because Iran had been violating the provisions of the nuclear non-proliferation agreement, a deal was struck between Iran and the Five Permanent Members of the United Nations Security Council, Germany and the European Union, in 2015. The deal now appears to be on the path of désuétude with the withdrawal of the United States and the apparent baiting of the Iranian government by other signatories to the agreement. This is what is currently pushing the movement and escalation from Cold War to Hot War, and which has to be nipped in the bud by necessity.

Hot War is essentially about shooting war or military hostilities, with or without battle fields. In this regard, the fundamental difference between Cold and Hot War is the direct use of weapons in Hot War and its non-use in the case of Cold War. Thus, a Hot War is necessarily a negation of a Cold War. With the clarification in mind, how is the Iranian nuclear deal likely to precipitate a cold or hot war? How do we explain the geo-politics of it within the maintenance of the need for global peace and security?

The Iranian Nuclear Deal The Iranian Nuclear Deal is another expression for the Comprehensive Joint Plan of Action (CJPOA), which is also described as the P5+1 and the European Union and signed on July 14, 2015 after twenty months of negotiations in Geneva, Switzerland, and Vienna, Austria, endorsed by the United Nations Security

Re: The US 15-Year Jail Term Sentence on a Nigerian Nanny: Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Diplomatic or Functional Protection?

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read your detailed, incisive piece in your regular, not to be missed column in THISDAY on Sunday, May 12, 2019. The matter was unfortunately not brought to the attention of both the Nigerian Embassy in Washington, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or my office, which had been on since October 2016 until the conviction of the 73-year old woman, Mrs Oluremi Adeleye, on May 6, 2019 in Maryland United States by Judge Karen Mason for Child abuse and second degree murder. Our missions in New York and Washington are now working together to see if Mrs. Adeleye‘ s sentence could, at least, be reduced or changed to manslaughter, rather than second degree murder. The

judgement has now gone on appeal. During the appeal, which will be closely monitored by our missions, it is hoped that the court can be convinced that Mrs. Adeleye did not intentionally murder the baby she was paid to take care of. We commiserate with the family who lost their child in the whole case of an old cultural tradition gone wrong, as sadly enough, nothing can bring back the baby. It must, however, be pointed out that Madam Oluremi Adeleye‘s matter was a case of an old cultural way of feeding babies, especially in Yorubaland, Nigeria, when babies are reluctant to eat.

–––(Honourable Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO Nigerian Diaspora Commission)

Council Resolution 2231 on July 20, 2015 and supervised by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The CJPOA is a 159-page agreement, signed by the foregoing stakeholders along with Iran (making eight signatories in all), and which entered into force on 18 October, 2015. The implementation of the CJPOA is structured into five stages of implementation and specially aimed at holding back Iran’s nuclear programme, to begin with, and to permanently prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear capability in the long run.

The first stage is the Finalisation Day of the Agreement, that is, July 14, 2015 a day which all the French people celebrate as their National Day. The Finalisation Day is the crescendo of the 20 months of negotiation in which the proactive, positive role of Russians was not only specially and thankfully appreciated by former US president Barack Obama, but which also is what the incumbent President Donald trump considers as one of the major issues to be addressed. Donald Trump does not see the CJPOA as an agreement that protects the American interest.

Adoption Day is the second stage. It took place on October 18, 2015, that is, 90 days after July 20, 2015 when it was accepted by the UNSC. This is simply to show that the CJPOA went through various levels of approval process. Implementation Day is the third level. for which January 16, 2016 was set. This was the day the IAEA was required to certify that Iran had taken the required steps to restrict its nuclear program and put necessary and increased monitoring efforts in place.

The fourth stage, called the Transition Day, is to be in October 2023 when it is expected that the United Nations will lift the missile restrictions placed on Iran and also when Iran will be required to seek the ratification of its Additional Protocol, when the European Union should terminate all remaining nuclear sanctions, and when the United States is to remove some sanctions, as well as seek legislative sanctions. And finally, there is the Termination Day scheduled to take place ten years after the Adoption Day, that is, under normal circumstance, the nuclear program of Iran is expected to have been completely neutralised by 2025.

As programmed, many issues are covered by the Iranian deal: uranium enrichment; uranium stockpile; Fordow, which is converted to research facility for stable isotope production with Russian cooperation; advanced centrifuge research and development; Arak reactor; role of the Joint Commission; United Nations sanctions; United States sanctions; and monitoring and verification.

Of all these issues, three of them are critical to the understanding of the hullaballoo that has come to threaten global security in an unprecedented manner. They are monitoring and verification, the Joint Commission, and the United States sanctions. The three issues all combine to explain the current controversy surrounding the withdrawal of the United States from the deal, as well as the baiting of other signatories to the deal.

In this regard, the Joint Commission is required to hold quarterly meetings or by request, to oversee the deal for 25 years. A 15-day dispute resolution mechanism within the Joint Commission is provided for with an optional 15-day ministerial review and/or arbitration opinion from a 3-member panel, which is to be followed by a 5-day review of the arbitration opinion. In this regard, ‘if no resolution and complaining party sees action as “significant non-performance,” the unresolved issue can be treated as grounds to cease performing commitments in whole or part, complaining party will notify the UNSC.’ Perhaps, more importantly, any party can go to the UNSC to put sanctions back in place if there is non-compliance by vetoing a resolution calling for the continuance of sanctions.

At the level of Monitoring and Verification stage, it is required that by 15 October 2015, Iran should have implemented the PMD roadmap agreed with the IAEA. Monitoring and verification is about the continuous monitoring of Iran’s uranium mines and mills which should be for 25 years, while that of Iran’s centrifuge production facilities should be for 20 years. What is particularly noteworthy about the foregoing is the geo-politics of the deal following the withdrawal of the United States from the deal on May 8, 2018. The US withdrawal has created a fresh three-dimensional issue to be addressed: United States versus all other stakeholders; Iran versus all other stakeholders to the CJPOA; and Iran versus all others without the United States.

As noted above, the signatories are eight in all: the UNSC P-5, Germany, European Union and Iran, which had been placed under international sanctions before the 2015 CJPOA for non-compliance with the obligations of the Treaty on Nuclear non-Proliferation. The attitudinal disposition of the signatories is conflicting to the extent that it has the potential to bring Russia and the United States into exchange of military hostilities.

Going by the provisions of the CJPOA, the United States have the right of withdrawal from the agreement, but not subject to conditions that are considered detrimental to the collective interests of other signatories to the agreement. At the level of the United States, it is believed, rightly or wrongly, that Iran has not been faithful to the obligations created by the CJPOA, hence the need to withdraw from it. Besides, President Donald Trump argues that the agreement, as it is, is not in the interest of the United States, and therefore, it has to be renegotiated.

(See concluding part on www.thisdaylive.com)

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Apapa traďŹƒc gridlock

The Lilypond Solution to Apapa Gridlock The conversion of Lilypond Terminal into a Transit Trailer Park (LTTP) by the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) and the presidential order on Apapa Ports’ decongestion in two weeks are expected to ease the crippling Apapa gridlock and reduce the agony of port users, who will now access the Lagos Port Complex (LPC) in good time, writes Eromosele Abiodun

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or several years (critically last two years),Apapa, a once thriving port city, became a no-go area for visitors, hellish for those who reside and work there, and traumatic for business owners and those exporting or importing cargoes.

The primary reason for the traffic gridlock has been the complete collapse of the two-kilometre Wharf Road, which leads from the base of Ijora Bridge entering into Apapa to the entrance of Apapa Port.

This resulted in a backlog of trucks and tankers on the Ijora Bridge sometimes all the way to WesternAvenue and Ikorodu road, making it difficult for other road users going in and out of Apapa.

Likewise, the only other access road out of Apapa through the Liverpool Overhead Bridge and Apapa-Mile 2 Expressway is similarly in a state of complete disrepair and blocked by trucks and tankers. With no holding bay in Apapa for trucks and tankers, their drivers were forced to park and queue on not only the access roads into Apapa but the main roads inside Apapa.

Consequently, roads and bridges that were not meant to be parking spaces for heavy duty vehicles, but to serve only as thoroughfares carried the additional burden leading to their regular and speedy deterioration. Before the port concession exercise undertaken by the former President Obasanjo administration, trucks coming to Apapa and Tin Can Ports had holding bays inside the ports for parking and queuing. During the concession exercise, the Bureau of Public Enterprise (BPE) concessioned all the available space inside the ports to the concessionaires.

With the concession of the holding bays, the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) designated the Lilypond Terminal in Ijora, which is outside the ports, as the new holding bay for trucks. However, a concessionaire of theApapa Container Terminal also set its sight on leasing the Lilypond Terminal at Ijora for its excess container cargo.

This effectively pushed the truck drivers patronising Apapa and Tin Can Ports from inside these ports to the streets of Apapa.

NPA Takes Action Following public outcry over the situation in Apapa, the NPA in collaboration with Dangote Industries Plc and Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc mobilised funds to fix the two-kilometre Wharf Road.

The Wharf Road has since been completed and opened to motorists.

The reconstruction, which cost N4.34 billion, made life easier to residents and businesses in Apapa. It did not however end the

gridlock in Apapa. Frustrated by the situation, the NPA decided to convert the Lilypond Terminal in Ijora to a Transit Trailer Park (TTP). The impact was instantaneous, within a week, the perennial gridlock was reduced by over 50 per cent and boosted revenue.

Lilypond terminal, which is located in Ijora, along the Western Avenue, Lagos, was a Dry Port with full complement of Customs and housed other security agencies before it was converted, few weeks ago, to a trailer park by the NPA. The General Manager, Corporate and Strategic Communications, NPA, Mr. Jatto Adams, told THISDAY that the NPAhad to revoke a five -year lease agreement it had earlier entered with Lilypond Container Terminal Limited to bring succour to Nigerians.

According to him, the authority is allowing truck drivers to park their haulage vehicles in the facility after carrying out some expansion work and ascertaining the number of trucks to be accommodated in the yard.

Over 1, 000 trailers, it was gathered, can use the facility in a day.

Truck drivers using the facility, Jatto said, are those that have business to do with the ports and “they are not going to pay any amount of money for using the facility for the next months.�

He added that truck drivers were expected to have concluded their business arrangements within 48 hours and remove their vehicles from the facility since they are all on transit trade.

NPA, he said, had adopted an orderly manual call-up system for all the trucks to be parked in the terminal before they access the ports in Lagos to address the traffic issues.

According to him, Lilypond Container Terminal was erroneously concessioned ab-initio; this was because the said terminal does not have a water front for loading and offloading of cargo. “Consequently, after the expiration of the lease, the terminal was, however, reclassified and granted a five-year development lease before it was revoked and converted to a befitting transit trailer park.�

Adams added that the Managing Director of NPA, Ms. Hadiza Bala Usman, had taken a bold step to ensure that the TTP would be managed by public private partnership (PPP) after going through the procurement process.

The spokesman added that NPA had provided short, medium, and long-term solutions to the gridlock. For instance, Adams said the present management of NPA had also engaged the support services of the Federal Ministry of Works, Power and Housing, Dangote Group and Flour Mills of Nigeria to reconstruct the road

from end of Ijora Bridge to Lagos Port Complex to improve NPA’s services to customers.

Adams stated that under the long-term solutions provided, the Federal Ministry of Transportation was working assiduously to ensure that containers were evacuated to the hinterland through the rail system being put in place by the Federal Government.

Residents, Importers’View When THISDAY visited the Lagos Port Complex last week, trailers and other heavy-duty vehicles were no longer parked indiscriminately on top of Ijora Bridge, making traffic on the major road leading to the LPC not hellish.

Stakeholders said the current situation was one that had made life easy and bearable for them, particularly for port users and Lagosians living in Apapa, Ijora, Ajegunle, Orile and Surulere.

Importers, port users, stakeholders and residents of Apapa, who spoke with THISDAY lamented endlessly at how tankers and trailers made their roads impassable and their lives miserable before the conversion of the Lilypond terminal to a transit trailer park.

An importer, Mr. Oladimeji Benjamin, said the Ijora road to Lagos port complex was totally blocked. He said: “We could not drive in or drive out of the port. For me to come to Apapa, I took my vehicle to CMS, paid N500.00 to park the vehicle, go to the jetty and paid another N150.00 to Apapa from CMS. From there, I took N100.00 bike to LPC to carry out my business. “That is how many of us operated in Apapa before the current intervention by the NPA. We are happy that the NPA has come to our aid.

It takes me less than 10 minutes now to drive from Ojuelegba to LPC gate in Apapa. That is fantastic. We give kudos to NPA for this laudable initiative and we hope the federal government will support the NPA to do more.�

Also, a resident of Ijora, Fagbemi Badare, pointed out the health hazards they were exposed to before the NPAturned the Lilypond terminal to a Truck Transit Park. “Thenotorioustruckdrivershavedeliberatelyturnedthewalk-way, our drainages and the bridge into their toilets. You can imagine the filth and health risk such nasty and dastardly acts exposed our wives, children and aged parents, most especially at night and during the rainy season, “he said.

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Driving Banks to Improve Private Sector Lending The markets keenly await the Central Bank of Nigeria’s planned framework seeking to boost banks’ lending to the real sector, albeit at the expense of banks’ investment in government securities, writes James Emejo

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he market was last week jolted oncemorebytheannouncement from the CBN that it planned to limit the exposure of deposit money banks (DMBs) to government securities in an effort to redirect their lending focus to the private sector.

Apparently unimpressed and frustrated by levels of economic and loan growth as well as previous policy measures undertaken to woo the banking industry to lend to the real sector, which is adjusted to be critical to the development of the economy, particularly the diversification efforts of the current administration, the CBN Governor, Mr. Godwin Emefiele, had stressed the need to cut banks increasing appetite for investing in treasury bills and other government instruments, in a determined intervention to spur the growth of the economy through the small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

Speaking at the end of the two-day Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting in Abuja last week, the CBN boss had expressed the disappointment of the committee over banks’ lukewarm attitude towards lending to the real sector, preferring instead to deploy financing to government securities at the detriment of the economy.

According to Emefiele, the MPC, therefore, issued express orders to the apex bank management to “provide a mechanism for limiting DMBs access to government securities so as to redirect bank’s lending focus to the private sector� as this could boost the much-needed growth in the economy.

The committee stated that the abundant opportunities available to banks for unfettered access to government securities tends to crowd out private sector lending.

The committee’s resolution appears to be understandable after all as every previous attempts to encourage banks to increase credit advance to the private had largely been unheeded.

In July last year, the CBN evolved a credit expansion mechanism to boost lending to the real sector, by promising to refund 100 per cent of cash reserve ratio (CRR) to banks, which are able to demonstrate evidence of increased lending to the private sector, particularly agriculture.

According to reports, the banks practically shunned the CBN offer and continued to relegate private sector lending to the background.

However, Emefiele, who vowed that the CBN will implement MPC’s directive to the letter said the committee particularly expressed concern at the development, whereby banks abandoned their key roles of stimulating growth by investing in government instruments at the detriment of the economy, also highlighted some measures to address the situation going forward.

He said: “The truth is that yes, according to our own regulations, there is a particular minimum percentage of treasury bills or government securities that the banks must invest in, in order to remain liquid, but again we have observed and unfortunately and increasingly so, that the banks, rather than even focusing on granting credit to the private sector, they tend to direct their focus mainly on buying government securities. “The MPC has frowned at that and has directed the management of the CBN to put in place policies or regulations that would restrict the banks from unlimited access to government securities. “It is important and expedient that the committee gives this directive to management because this country badly needs growth. For us to achieve growth, those whose primary responsibility that it is to provide credit, who act as intermediaries in providing credit and are called catalysts to credit and growth in the economy must be seen to perform that responsibility.� “And that rather than perform that responsibility to the private sector that is the engine of growth in the economy, they would be directing liquidity to other sectors of the economy. That is what the MPC frowns at and has, therefore, given the management power to think of what can we do to limit their appetite for just going for

A view of marina, Lagos

government securities rather than directing credit to the private sector of the economy,� he added.

Although the apex bank is yet to produce the anticipated regulatory and legal framework for restricting banks’ investment in government treasury bills and bold, the market has nonetheless, reacted to the development.

In an interview with THISDAY, a treasurer in one of the leading commercial banks, who pleaded to remain anonymous, explained that if the policy is enforced, banks would be forced to change their investment strategy.

According to him, banks may then be compelled to seek opportunities in other investment outlets such as commercial papers. “Investment in treasury bills and bonds are risk-free and the returns are guaranteed. So, limiting the amount of investible funds would definitely hit the profitability of banks.�

Also, Head of Research and Strategy at FSDH Merchant Bank Limited, Mr. Ayodele Akinwunmi, predicted a situation where there could be a rule directing banks on how to structure their balance.

He told THISDAY that the apex bank could also use moral suasion to achieve its objective of making banks lend to the real sector, just as he highlighted the risks in lending to the real sector.

Akinwunmi said:“The short-term impact of this policy if implemented is that commercial paper market will increase; there would be tendency for banks to rediscount and trading on other papers would increase. But everybody will be happy if interest rate in the economy drops and the risks in the economy reduces.�

Furthermore, analyst at EFG Hermes, Mohamed Abu Basha said though it is not clear how such a restriction would be implemented, “but in all cases, we don’t believe that it would necessarily lead to a pick-up in credit growth given.�

He hinged his argument on the “tight liquidity in the system thanks to the CBN’s tight monetary policy� as well as “banks’ risk aversion due to the poor macroeconomic backdrop.�

On his part, Managing Director, Afrinvest Securities Limited, Mr. Ayodeji Ebo, said going by the move to limit exposure to treasury bills and bonds, banks would not be comfortable with

the policy because it undermines their chances of making money. “So, it is going to be a difficult push for the central bank. The CBN needs to look for a more structural way to boost lending to the real sector.

This looks like more of direct control. It is better to adopt moral suasion on this matter,� he noted.

Ebo cited the difficult operating environment as one of the factors discouraging lending to the private sector.

However, aware of banks’ aversion to lending to the private sector, particularly in view of the associated risks, and potential for non-performing loans increase, the CBN further assured that other measures would be announced to limit banks’ losses which may result from lending to the private sector.

Emefiele said: “We do know that banks have often expressed some resistance to increasing credit to the private sector given the past experiences they’ve had about NPLs that result from this. “And hence, the MPC themselves have also directed management that we should think about administrative, legal and regulatory framework to be put in place to ensure that some of the credit risks that are associated with granting credit risks to the private sector that ultimately result in NPLs should be mitigated such that when banks decide to begin to lend to private sector or increase lending, that the probability that NPLs will rise should be moderated.�

According to him, the MPC also felt that the consumer credit and mortgage credit market must be catalysed in Nigeria. That one of the inhibiting factors to growth is the fact that we have not been able to effectively jump-start the consumer credit and mortgage credit lending in Nigeria. “And the management of the bank will think of how to put in place regulations that would assist people or banks in ensuring that consumer credit is improved again in Nigeria. “In different parts of the world, people go to the shops and they should be able to buy things on credit. When you buy those things on credit, what it does is that if you have some liquidity, say about N5 and you want to buy something for N10, what it does is that it improves aggregate

demand, when it increases demand that can meet the dormant supply, what you will find is that it will catalyse the economy, it will also catalyse productivity and grow the economy and we can begin see GDP begin to attain the kind of historical level that Nigeria has always been at. “That we are going to take up, given that the MPC has given management that mandate and we are going to hold very informed and strategic discussions and engagements deposit money banks because they are very important, they are anchored to growth and we will make them understand that they must play this role that is expected of them.�

Further clarifying on the level of bad debts in the banking industry, the CBN boss said, “If you recall, the prudential guideline is that banks should have maximum of 5 per cent in NPLs. I must say at this time it is about 19 per cent on the average which is a significant improvement from where it was a year or two ago. “About a year or two ago, it was close to 15 to 17 per cent and moderating to 10 per cent I would say is a substantial and significant and encouraging improvement in the level of NPLs. “And I do think that with the steps that would be taken by the CBN to support the bank through administrative, legal and regulatory framework, that certainly we would see to it that NPLs are brought down so that deposit money banks can be encouraged to go back and begin to lend more aggressively to those sectors that they consider to be risky.�

Emefiele had always insisted that the provision of cheap financing to boost local production of priority goods in critical sectors of the economy remained the key to achieving sustainable growth.

He said, this would reduce reliance on foreign imports, which constitute a drain on the economy as well as help small businesses, which are seen as catalysts to growth, prosper.

Nonetheless, given that stability and confidence remained crucial for the financial system, the proposed regulatory framework on banks’ investment in government securities by the CBN may only seek to strike a balance between banks’ profitability and economic growth.

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Marina Lagos

FMDQ OTC Sheds N12.6tn of Turnover in Biggest Loss A major correction in Foreign Portfolio Investment following the 2019 general elections in Nigeria took its toll on the performance of the Fixed Income and Currency Market on the platform of the FMDQ OTC Securities Exchange in April, reducing turnover by N12.6 trillion. Bamidele Famoofo reports that it was the biggest loss the market has recorded

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he Fixed Income and Currency Markets recorded its biggest loss year-to-date in April with turnover dropping by N12.61trillion. The post-election loss represents 43.5 percent when put side by side with a turnover of N28.98trillion recorded in the elections month.

The figure in April stood at N16.37trillion but year-on-year, (YoY) the performance of the market in April 2019 was better by 9.57 percent than the turnover in April 2018.

The market recorded a growth of 51.09 percent or N9.80trillion in the elections month of March 2019 from N19.18trillion turnover achieved in February. Year-on-Year, turnover grew by about 85 percent in March.

Turnover in February stood at N19.18trillion, representing 27.19 percent or N4.10trillion Month-on-Month (MoM) increase on the turnover of N15.08trillion recorded in January 2019. The figure in January represents a 52.4 percent year-on-year increase from N12.59trillion recorded in February 2018.

Analysis of the performance of the market in April showed that the Foreign Exchange segment of the market contributed N6.28 trillion (about $17.43billion) to total market turnover which represents a 47.59 percent decrease month-on-month over the previous month’s figure.

However, analysis of FX turnover by trade type indicates an MoM decrease by 34.3 percent, 44.10 percent, and 59.01 percent in FX turnover for Inter-Member, Member-Clients, and Member-CBN3 trades respectively in the review month.

The FMDQ OTC attributed the develop-

ments in the market in the month of April to the normalization in Foreign Portfolio Investment inflows following the post-election surge recorded in March 2019. “Turnover at the Investors & Exporters FX Window in April 2019 recorded a 29.01percent ( about $2.17bn) MoM decrease to close at $5.31billion from the $7.48billion recorded in March 2019, whilst recording a YoY increase of 12.03percent (about$0.57billion) from the turnover of $4.74billion recorded in April 2018.� FMDQ disclosed.

By product type, analysis of FX turnover in April 2019, showed an MoM decrease in both FX Spot and FX Derivatives by 50.33percent ($10.80bn) and 42.60percent ($5.02bn) respectively, with the MoM decrease in FX Spot accounting for 68.25 percent of the total MoM decrease in FX turnover. The MoM decrease in FX Derivatives was driven mainly by decreases in FX Swaps and Futures turnover, jointly accounting for 71.5 percent of the MoM decrease.

The 34th Naira-settled OTC FX Futures Contract (NGUS APR 24 2019) with total open contracts size of $431.16million matured and was settled in the review month, bringing the total value of OTC FX Futures contracts settled on FMDQ since inception to $15.28billion; out of FX Futures contracts worth $23.23billion traded to date. A new 12-month contract (NGUS APR 29 2020) with a notional principal of $1.00billion and futures price of $/N362.41 was introduced in the market in April.

The Naira appreciated against the US Dollar at the I&E FX Window by N0.05 to close the month at $/N360.63 while the parallel market and the CBN Official Spot rates remained unchanged at $/N360.00

and $/N306.95 respectively.

Despite the appreciation of the naira in the I & E FX Window, the FMDQ OTC noted that there was a decline in FX inflows from Foreign Direct Investment, FDI, and FPI inflows as market activities normalized following the post-election euphoria experienced in March.

Total Treasury Bills (including OMO7 bills) outstanding recorded an MoM increase of 1.20 percent (N0.20trn) to close at N17.00trillion in April.

FMDQ OTC disclosed that T.bills outstanding value remained unchanged for the third (3rd) a consecutive month as the CBN continued its liquidity mop-up via OMO auctions to curtail the build-up of inflationary pressure. “However, the frequency and size of OMO auctions declined in April 2019, as only three (3) auctions for OMO bills worth N693.05billion were held in April 2019, compared to four (4) auctions for OMO bills worth N863.96billion in March 2019.

Similarly, FGN bonds outstanding value increased MoM by 1.13 percent (N0.10trn) to close at N8.74trillion as at April 2019.

Furthermore, the split in domestic sovereign debt between long- and short -term debt as at April 2019 was 77:23 (long- vs. short-term), slightly higher than the target ratio of 75:25 outlined in the FGN’s Debt Management Strategy.�

The trading intensity in the T.bills and FGN bonds markets decreased from 0.60 and 0.18 in March 2019, to 0.30 and 0.08 in April 2019 respectively. To date, the trading intensity in the markets stood at 1.89 and 0.47 respectively compared to 1.79 and 0.45 as at the same period in 2018. T.bills

within the 6-12 months maturity bracket remained the most actively traded in April 2019, accounting for 51.36 percent of the total market turnover.

Weighted average yields on short-term maturities decreased by 0.19points. Conversely, weighted average yields on medium-term and long-term maturities increased by 0.44ppts and 0.49ppts respectively resulting in a steeper yield curve.

Turnover recorded in the Repos/BuyBacks segment of the Money Market was N4.09trillion in April 2019, representing a 24.01 percent (N1.29trillion) MoM decrease from N5.38trillion recorded in March 2019, and 154.88percent (N2.49trn) YoY increase from the turnover recorded in April 2018.

Similarly, Unsecured Placements/Takings closed the month with a turnover of N94.04billion, representing a 35.63 percent (N52.05bn) MoM decrease from N146.09billion recorded in March 2019, and a YoY increase of 47.54percent (N30.30bn).

Average O/N9 NIBOR10 increased by 3.40ppts to close at 16.28percent in April 2019 from 12.88percent reported for March 2019, indicating a decrease in liquidity in the inter-bank market which is attributable to the 6.13percent (N40.61bn) decrease in the Federation Account Allocation Committee, FAAC, disbursements of N619.9billion shared in April 2019.

Total number of executed trades reported on the E-Bond Trading System in April 2019 was 11,566 representing a 45.67 percent (9,724) MoM decrease from the number of trades executed in March 2019 (21,290), driven by a MoM decrease in T.bills and FGN bonds trades by 8,114 (44.41%) and 1,610 (53.35%) respectively.

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Non-oil Sector Still Saving Grace for Economy Though gross domestic product (GDP) recorded a shortfall of -0.38 per cent in real terms in first quarter of this year compared to the position in the fourth quarter of 2018, it, nevertheless, grew by 0.12 per cent over the level in first quarter of 2018. The non-oil sector remains the key driver of the growth, accounting for about 91percent of the real GDP growth, reports Bamidele Famoofo

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here are indications that Nigeria can drive the growth of its economy with little or no reliance on revenue from oil.

The facts emerged from figures released from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) about the performance of the GDP as at end of April 2019. According to the bureau, the GDP as at end of April 2019 stood at 2.01 per cent.

Though the figure as at April fell short of the performance of GDP in last quarter of 2018 by -0.38 per cent, year-on-year, it recorded a growth of 2.54 percent compared to 1.89 percent growth achieved in first quarter of 2018.

The growth achieved in the first quarter of 2019, according to the Statistician General, NBS, Dr. Yemi Kale, was the strongest the nation had achieved since 2015.

The NBS attributed the growth in the first quarter to activities before and during the elections in March, noting that aggregate GDP stood at about N31.8 trillion in nominal terms. “This aggregate was higher than in the first quarter of 2018 which recorded N28,438,604.23 million, representing a year-on-year nominal growth rate of 11.80 percent.

The aggregate was, however, lower than in the preceding quarter of N35, 230,607.63 million (N35.2trillion), by -9.75 percent. The nominal GDP growth rate in Q1 2019 was higher than the rate recorded in Q1 2018 by 2.54 percent points,� NBS disclosed.

But the year-on-year real GDP growth of 0.12 per cent achieved in the review first quarter period was achieved mainly by economic activities that took place in the non-oil sector as the oil sector recorded a dismal performance in the same period, contributing only 9.14 per cent to GDP. Non-Oil Sector The non-oil sector grew by 2.47per cent in real terms during the reference quarter. This was 1.72per cent points higher compared to the rate recorded in the same quarter of 2018, but -0.23 percentage points lower than the fourth quarter of 2018. During the quarter, the sector was driven mainly by information and communication technology.

Other drivers were agriculture, transportation and storage, trade and construction. In real terms, the non-oil sector contributed 90.86 per cent to the nation’s GDP, higher than recorded in the first quarter of 2018 (90.45 per cent) but lower than the fourth quarter of 2018 (92.94 per cent).

ICT The information and communications sector contributed 10.61 per cent to nominal GDP in Q1 2019, slightly lower than the rate of 10.65 per cent recorded in the same quarter of 2018, but higher than the 10.23 per cent it contributed in the preceding quarter.

The sector in the first quarter of 2019 recorded a growth rate of 9.48 per cent in real terms, year on year, representing an increase of 7.90 percentage points. Quarter on Quarter, the sector exhibited a growth of -7.29 per cent in real terms.

In terms of contribution to real GDP, the sector contributed 13.33 per cent in Q1 2019, higher than in the same quarter of the previous year in which it accounted for 12.42per cent and in the preceding quarter, in which it represented 12.40 per cent.

The first quarter of 2019 saw the sector grow by 11.45per cent (year-on-year). The quarter-on-quarter growth rate recorded in the current quarter was -6.41 percent.

The information and communication sector comprises of the four activities of telecommunications and information services; publishing; motion picture, sound recording and music production; and broadcasting.

A textile market in Lagos

Agriculture Agriculture contributed 19.11 per cent to nominal GDP during the quarter, higher than the recorded contribution in the first quarter of 2018, but lower than recorded in the fourth quarter.

The sector grew by 22.58per cent year-on-year in nominal terms in Q1 2019, showing an increase of 16.78per cent points from the same quarter of 2018. Compared to the preceding quarter, the nominal GDP growth rate was about four per cent points higher. Crop production remains the major driver of the sector. This is evident as it accounted for 85 per cent of agriculture GDP. Quarter on quarter, growth stood at -25.27percent.

In real terms, the agricultural sector grew by 3.17per cent (year-on-year) in the first quarter of 2019, an increase of 0.17 per cent points compared to the corresponding quarter of 2018, and 0.72 per cent points compared to the preceding quarter.

During the quarter, the sector contributed 21.91 per cent to real GDP, higher than the contribution in the first quarter of 2018 (21.66 per cent) but lowers than the fourth quarter of 2018 (26.15 per cent).

Manufacturing The manufacturing sector comprises of 13 activities: Oil Refining; Cement; Food, Beverages and Tobacco; Textile, Apparel, and Footwear; Wood and Wood products; Pulp Paper and Paper products; Chemical and Pharmaceutical products; Non-metallic Products, Plastic and Rubber products; Electrical and Electronic, Basic Metal and Iron and Steel; Motor Vehicles and Assembly; and Other Manufacturing.

In the first quarter of 2019, nominal GDP growth in the manufacturing sector was recorded at 36.45per cent (year-on-year), or 27.52 per cent points higher than the rate recorded in the corresponding period of 2018 (8.93 per cent), and 2.88per cent points higher than in the preceding quarter. Quarter on quarter, manufacturing sector recorded a growth rate of 1.09per cent. The sector’s contribution to nominal GDP during the quarter was 11.32per

cent, higher than its contribution in both the first quarter (9.28 per cent) and the fourth quarter (10.11 per cent) of 2018.

Real GDP growth in the manufacturing sector was 0.81 per cent in the first quarter of 2019 (year on year). This was lower than in the same quarter of 2018 by -2.59percent points, and the preceding quarter by -1.54per cent points. On a quarter-on-quarter basis, the growth rate stood at -4.62per cent. In terms of its contribution, the sector accounted for 9.80per cent of real GDP in Q1 2019, lower than the 9.91 per cent recorded in the first quarter of 2018 but higher than the 8.86per cent recorded in the fourth quarter of 2018.

Construction The construction sector grew by about 70.0 per cent in nominal terms (year on year) in the first quarter of 2019, an increase of 58.02 per cent points compared to the rate recorded in the same quarter of 2018. This was also higher when compared to the rate recorded in the preceding quarter. On a quarter-on-quarter basis, nominal growth was recorded at 10.62 percent. Construction contributed 6.17 per cent to nominal GDP in the first quarter of 2019, higher than the 4.13per cent contribution a year earlier, and the 5.03per cent contributed in the fourth quarter of 2018.Nigerian According to the NBS, the real growth rate of the construction sector in the first quarter of 2019 stood at 3.18 percent (year on year), or 4.71per cent points higher than the rate recorded a year earlier. Relative to the preceding quarter, there was an increase of 1.13 per cent points. Quarter on quarter, the sector grew by 1.36per cent in real terms.

By contribution, the construction sector accounted for 4.09per cent of real GDP in the first quarter of 2019, higher than its contribution of 4.04per cent in the same quarter of 2018, and the 3.48 percent contribution recorded in the preceding quarter.

Trade In the first quarter of 2019, the nominal year on

year growth in Trade services stood at 4.82percent.

This indicates an increase of 6.94percentage points when compared to the first quarter of 2018, and 0.40 percentage points when compared to the fourth quarter. The quarter on quarter growth rate was -11.23per cent. Trade’s contribution to nominal GDP in the first quarter of 2019 was 16.96per cent, lower than the contribution in the same quarter in 2018, and lower than the preceding quarter’s contribution, recorded at 17.24percent.

In real terms, the year-on-year growth rate for trade services stood at 0.85per cent, which is 3.42per cent points higher than the rate recorded the previous year, and -0.17per cent points lower than in the preceding quarter. Quarter on quarter, growth stood at -11.80 per cent. In real terms, trade’s contribution to GDP was 16.87 per cent, lower than the 17.07per cent it accounted for in the previous year, but higher than the 16.50per cent recorded in the fourth quarter of 2018.

Oil Sector In the first quarter of 2019, average daily oil production stood at 1.96million barrels per day (mbpd), lower than the average daily production of 1.98mbpd recorded in the same quarter of 2018 by -0.02mbpd but higher than the fourth quarter 2018 production volume by 0.05mbpd. The level of oil output during the quarter was the highest recorded over the past one year and the second highest since mid 2017.

Real GDP growth in the oil sector was -2.40per cent (year-on-year) in Q1 2019 indicating a decrease by -16.43per cent points relative to the rate recorded in the corresponding quarter of 2018. Growth decreased by -0.79per cent points when compared to Q4 2018 which was -1.62per cent. Quarter-onquarter, the oil sector recorded a growth rate of 11.60per cent in Q1 2019.

The oil sector contributed 9.14 per cent to total real GDP in Q1 2019, down from the position in the corresponding period of 2018, and up compared to the preceding quarter, as it contributed 9.55 percent and 7.06 percent respectively.

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ĂŽĂ“ĂžĂ?ĂŽ ĂŒĂŁ Demola Ojo Ă—Ă‹Ă“Ă– demola.ojo@thisdaylive.com

Family of Elephants Make Kebbi Their Home Stories by Demola Ojo

ate last year, a family of elephants turned up in Zaria Kala-Kala village, Kebbi State. At the report of their sighting, the governor of the state, Atiku Bagudu, ordered their protection pending when they would be handed over to the appropriate authority.

As you can imagine, this was an initially difficult task as the elephants destroyed farms across some local governments while foraging.

According to the state’s commissioner for Agriculture, it was the first time in the state’s history that elephants would besiege their farms.

Their issues had always been with the hippopotamus.

However, the governor’s assurance that farmers would be compensated not only avoided a clash with the elephants, but made them welcome guests who have now decided to make the state home.

Recently, the governor hailed farmers living along the fringes of the River Niger in Koko/Besse and Bagudo Local Government Areas for protecting the stray elephants. Apart from protecting the endangered animals, the largest land mammals in the world, the farmers also provide them with feeds from their farms. “I urge all communities in the state to continue to provide information and support until the animals return to their rightful location,� the governor said.

He used the opportunity to warn the public against poaching of wild animals, adding that whoever inflicted injury on animals would face the full wrath of the law.

But if statements by the First Lady of Kebbi are anything to go by, the elephants are there to stay.

Zainab Bugudu said last week on Twitter: “These awesome elephants that strayed into Kebbi last year are safe and thriving. The mama and baby stay at ‘home’ whilst papa elephant roams the land. He always comes back. Typical.�

She revealed that the elephants had established a range and knew their bounds, negating the need for curtailing their movement. “The elephants have created a natural ‘zoo’ for themselves,� she said. “They don’t go beyond certain limits; always return. The host community in Zaria Kalakala protects them and can always tell you where they are. They have feeding points. It’s really quite interesting.�

From her comments, you can sense her excitement and her appreciation. “Indeed, we thank Nature, His Excellency and the receptive host community. I just ooh and aah and

The female elephant and the calf

The male elephant

share amazing pictures with you.�

The coexistence between the elephants and humans in Kebbi is worth the excitement it generates. Unlike other instances where the animals are either kept in a zoo or have a reserve demarcated for them, this is a natural relationship built on mutual trust which may help resuscitate the dwindling elephant population in Nigeria.

Elephants are a cornerstone of the $34 billion tourism industry across Africa. They play a critical role as

ecosystem engineers, providing a way for important soil nutrients to be spread around on a massive scale.

As natural gardeners, and sculptors of Africa’s most iconic landscapes, elephants help to disperse seeds and create spaces for other plant species to grow.

However, they face an uncertain future in Nigeria. Once widespread across the country, elephants have declined by more than 50% in less than 20 years.

Reliable information about many of these small herds is generally lacking.

However, it is known that a small herd of elephants survives in the region around Kwiambana Game Reserve in Zamfara State and Kamuku National Park in Kaduna State.

The largest and most important elephant herd remaining in the country is located at the Yankari Game Reserve in Bauchi where an estimated 100-150 elephants survive.

Interestingly, there are two species of elephant in Nigeria. The ones mentioned above are the savannah elephants of northern Nigeria.

The other is the forest elephant in the south. It was recently reported that these southern elephants may be around 200 remaining in the wild.

Like their cousins in the north, the animals face the twin threat of loss of habitat to development on one hand, and being poached for their ivory on the other.

The five sites where forest elephants are reportedly found in southern Nigeria are the Omo Forests in Ogun State, the Okomu National Park in Edo State, the Cross River National Park in Cross River State, the Idanre Forests and Osse River Park in Ondo State and the Andoni Island in Rivers State.

However, only organised conservation work, public support and enlightenment, and good habitat management are capable of saving the elephants from extinction in Nigeria.

Hopefully, the love and care being shown to the elephants in Kebbi will be replicated wherever they are found and might help increasing their population.

If well harnessed, wildlife tourism will be a long overdue complement to Nigeria’s tourism drive which at the moment, stands on the twin pillars of culture and entertainment.

Saving the elephant population is the least the country can do, after seeing the depletion and near extinction of other animals responsible for tourism income in other African countries.

The fact that elephants are peaceful animals, is a reason for their survival next to humans. Unfortunately, the lion for example - due to its nature - can’t find solace in host communities, which has invariably, threatened its population, in the absence of a concerted government effort at conservation.

Lions will soon disappear completely from Nigeria, according to experts. At the moment, there are only two areas in Nigeria home to lions: Kainji Lake National Park in Niger State, in the northwest, where approximately 30 cats live, and Yankari, where researchers believe there might be less than five.

With the example set by the host community in Kebbi State, Nigeria elephants shouldn’t suffer the same fate.

Egypt, Nigeria Lead in African Hotel Development According to the eleventh annual survey

by W Hospitality Group, the stars of hotel development in Africa are Egypt, Nigeria, Morocco and Ethiopia.

The four countries head the top ten by numbers of rooms in the internationally branded hotel development pipeline, with Egypt showing 15,158 rooms in 51 new hotels.

A total of 75,155 branded rooms in 401 hotels are in development across the continent – a net increase (ignoring recent openings and taking into account deals that have not come to fruition)

of almost 11,000 rooms in the pipeline, 17 per cent up on 2018.

W Hospitality Group’s Hotel Chain Development Pipelines in Africa survey had a record 43 international and regional hotel contributors this year, covering 54 countries in north and sub-Saharan Africa, and the Indian Ocean islands.

The top-line figures show that in North Africa the rooms pipeline is up 2.3 per cent on 2018, and down 3.8 per cent in sub-Saharan Africa – largely due to several of the chains “cleaning� their pipelines, deleting deals that

they believe are not going to happen. These cleaning adjustments amount to more than 12,000 rooms in 74 hotels.

Nevertheless, despite this significant adjustment, there has been growth of 51 per cent in the total pipeline rooms since 2015 – North Africa up by 58 per cent, and sub-Saharan Africa up by 47 per cent.

This year, the top ten countries account for 69 per cent of the total hotels in the survey, and 74 per cent of the rooms.

Trevor Ward, managing director, W Hospital-

ity Group, said: “Egypt has by far the largest number of rooms in the pipeline this year, almost double the number in Nigeria, which is in second place. “There has been huge activity by the chains in Egypt, with over 2,000 new rooms signed there in 2017, and a further 4,500 in 2018, of which 1,850 were signed by Radisson. “Accor has no fewer than 16 deals with 6,363 hotels in Egypt, boosted by new brands from its acquisitions, including MĂśvenpick and Fairmont.â€?

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THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER Ëž ÍşÍžËœ ͺ͸͚Î

Gwamna

JAMILU GWAMNA

The Power Sector is Too Expensive to Allow Corruption to Thrive Issues and challenges in the power sector came to the front burner once again when Managing Director and CEO of Kano Electricity Distribution Company (KEDCO), Dr. Jamilu Isyaku Gwamna, speaks with Nseobong Okon-Ekong. In this interview, he proffers solutions to the age-old problems in the sector and highlights the strategies, challenges and achievements of KEDCO. Excerpts:

THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER Ëž ÍşÍžËœ ͺ͸͚Î

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The Solution to Power Sector Challenges is Sincerity

A

s a major stakeholder in the power sector and with your wealth of knowledge, what are the challenges in the power sector?

Let me correct one notion. The power sector in Nigeria has no challenges but challenge. If that challenge had been addressed, all others will become history.

The only challenge of the power sector in Nigeria is insincerity. The handlers of the sector since 1999 have not been sincere in the award of billions of dollars contracts.

It is only of recent that we have a sincere President who wants to do the magic and he is doing it. Imagine spending over $16 billion and yet the President Muhammadu Buhari administration inherited less than 3,000MW when other countries have spent less and have better output. It took the sincerity of Mr. President to give 1,000MW yearly addition to the national grid. I am in the power sector and I know the effort of the present administration and that’s why I will always commend Mr. President.

Now that we are generating more, efforts should be made to fix the issues of transmission. If everything being generated is transmitted, Nigerians would cry less about power supply.

What solutions would you recommend for the lingering crisis in the power sector?

The only solution I will put forward is still the issue of sincerity. Everyone in the power sector should emulate Mr. President.

Whoever is involved in the business of power in Nigeria should do that with sincerity from generation, transmission to distribution. If corruption is eradicated from the system, everything will work well. If all the contracts from 1999 up to 2015 were executed without corruption, we would have been talking of at least 15,000MW. Because of corruption, Nigeria spent more than any African country, but got less compared to countries like South Africa, Egypt and Morocco. South Africa has over 51, 000 MW, but in Nigeria, we are talking about roughly 6, 000MW. The power sector is too expensive to permit corruption, if we must achieve some level of sufficiency.

Why do you think there is a pressing clamour for efďŹ cient supply of electricity in Nigeria?

It is simple. We must take our destiny in our hands to develop the country. People clamour for electricity because when you fix the power sector in Nigeria, then the power sector will fix other sectors. Power holds the key to everything in development whether industrialisation or growth in other sectors. If Nigeria gets it right with power, we have got it right in every sector. In Kano State alone, we know the number of small-scale industries that sprung up just because of improvement in the generation and ultimately distribution of power. That has jerked up employment in the area as youths no longer wait for the government to give them jobs and that has had a significant improvement on the economy of Kano and Nigeria at large. No country can boost development except there is power.

Do you see PPP as a viable option in addressing power sector challenges?

Of course, as a business administrator, we need government to create the enabling environment and government needs our investments, so it’s a partnership that provides gains for both ends. Power is very expensive. If government makes attempts to solve it alone, our complete yearly budget for five years will still not be adequate to get the required output for growth. So, we need to turn to the PPP approach that has helped in so many developed countries of the world. For instance, there are over 267 active PPP projects in Canada, and those that have reached financial close are valued at nearly CAD$123 billion (US

Gwamna

$95.4 billion). That is what we should be driving at too. We must turn to PPP arrangement if we must make headway in the power sector.

When it comes to the power sector, government must focus on how best to leverage and increase private sector investment into large revenue-generating projects that will help to fast track growth from all angles.

What is your advice to stakeholders in the power sector?

If power works, a lot of the problems we face in the country will disappear. So, everyone, including I, must be patriotic when it comes to the business of power in Nigeria. Let’s not play politics with the key to our industrialisation and the major tool to economic diversification for the good and sustainability of growth in Nigeria.

KEDCO has evolved as one of the most customer-friendly DISCOs, how was that feat achieved?

Managing any company must involve an acquisition of conscious level of knowledge that will help you to know where the source of the oxygen of that business is and after that seek to protect that source by keeping it happy. In KEDCO, our customers are our partner and they are like the oxygen that keeps our company going. So, it is common wisdom to ensure we work out all modalities to make them happy and when they are, it becomes easy for them to buy into our plans and vision. We have over time prioritised our customers’ needs and continue on this lane. The essence of business is satisfaction from all partners.

We have found out the ways of satisfying our customers and we are strengthening such with the necessary demands for

the sustainability of any contemporary company-customer relations.

You recently invested millions of naira to procure equipment, what is it all about?

Our customers are our pride and the reason we are in business. We bought that equipment for operational upgrade and better service delivery. As we have always insisted, customers complaints are treated in KEDCO as raw material for improvement. We have received complaints on over loading and some operational issues.

So, we quickly moved in that regard by procuring 170 transformers, 60 operational vehicles and other safety kits. All we have bought are for the satisfaction of our customers and to give them a value for their money. When you spend, you should get quality service and it is in that quest that we procured all this equipment to ensure that we cut down on complaints, while improving our capacity for surpassing our fit as one of the modern power distributing companies in the world.

What major challenge is KEDCO facing regarding power distribution?

The major challenge we face and we are working continuously to totally phase out that challenge is the available megawatt for distribution. When we came on board, we inherited about 130MW, but with the cooperation of our customers and our visionary staff, today we now distribute about 350MW. So, our major challenge is how to keep improving on the available megawatt for distribution. That’s why it is key for consumers of electricity to keep paying their bills to help us in that regard. We also pay to relevant bodies for generated and transmitted power made available to KEDCO for distribution. If

consumers cultivate the habit of paying their bills on time, it will boost KEDCO’s purchasing power and keep the company in a position to serve our customers better.

Why is it necessary to hold frequent interactive sessions with your customers?

We are in business because we have customers, so by all means, we need to draw them closer because their complaints and contributions go a long way to improving our past achievements. Basically, the reason for the interactive session is to parley with our partners and by default, they are the major stakeholders as far as I am concerned. We also use the session to advise them on how best to conserve energy and keep their property safe from fire. So, let me also use this medium to advise all power consumers in Nigeria to cultivate the habit of switching off all appliances in offices, at homes, hospitals, schools and so on. With this, we will conserve energy by curtailing the amount of energy that is wasted and also reduce the risk of fire through electrical appliances. We must also fix all faulty appliances, cords, switches and outlets especially now that our children will be on holidays.

What should we expect from KEDCO under your watch?

Expect a digitalised KEDCO within the shortest time possible. A top-notch company that will be on its toes in meeting the demands of its customers through technology. Already, we are on course, so in the nearest future, we will consolidate that. We will strengthen our networks and improve on our intelligence to wipe out traces of power theft, vandalism, sabotage and illegal connections that are the major forces against KEDCO moving to the next level.

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MAY 26, 2019 ˾ THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER

with RenoOmokri THE ALTERNATIVE Tinubu’s Misdirected Anger and Obasanjo’s Bravery

W

hy does Asiwaju Bola Tinubu want to learn from a mistake instead of learning from history? History does not repeat itself.

Men repeat history and that is a mistake.

How can Tinubu be so naive to expect that even if the All Progressives Congress gives him its ticket in 2023 (possible, but iffy) that Northerners will leave prominent Northerners in the Peoples Democratic Party, like Atiku Abubakar, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, Aminu Tambuwal and Sule Lamido to vote for him?

If Tinubu thinks that what happened to the late chief MKO Abiola will happen to him, then he is allowing hubris blind his judgment.

I recommend to him the biography of Shehu Musa Yar’adua, titled ‘A Life of Service’, and written by Miss Jacqueline Farris.

In that book, he will read that the late Chief MKO Abiola was a political sacrifice by the Northern political elite of the Social Democratic Party, led by the late Tafida of Katsina (Shehu Musa Yar’adua) who knew beforehand (from intuition, not conspiracy) that General Babangida was going to annul the June 12, 1993 elections and only decided to support Chief MKO Abiola so that they could use Babangida to destroy Abiola and use Abiola to destroy Babangida, leaving the coast clear for them.

As a matter of fact, when prominent politicians asked Shehu Yar’adua why he was supporting Chief Abiola, he responded by saying that if he supported a Northerner, the Northerner would win, but Babangida would annul the election and the North would accept it because they were both Northerners. But if he supported a Southerner, like Abiola, when Babangida annulled the election, the South would rise up against him and he (Shehu Yar’adua) and his movement, will support the South and in one fell swoop, they will be rid of both Babangida and Abiola.

Let us face the truth, the North is by far more politically sophisticated than the South of Nigeria. Only one Southerner, to my knowledge, has been able to outflank the North, and that is former President Olusegun Obasanjo. Bola Tinubu does not have what it takes. He is being led by the nose, hopefully, not to his doom, but to his disgrace.

Recently, Nasir El-Rufai was in Lagos at the behest of the Bridge Club, which put up a hastily arranged, and probably custom-designed occasion tagged, “An evening with His Excellency Mallam Nasir El-Rufai.

It was a moment where El-Rufai delivered the general thinking of the Northern elite as regards Bola Tinubu.

At that event, El-Rufai, who had once knelt down for Tinubu, flippantly remarked “Godfatherism. This is Lagos. Let me tell you something sir; you know, Kaduna State used to be like that. There were three or four politicians in Kaduna that you could not become anything unless you had them on your side. Those were the godfathers of Kaduna politics and you had to carry them along and you know, the three words, ‘carry them along’ mean paying them regularly. “But we chose a different path and the long and short of it now is that after this election in 2019, we have retired all of them; we had to.”

Mr. El-Rufai then went on to give Lagosians tutorials on how to defeat their own ‘godfather’.

Defeat, is what the North has planned for Bola Tinubu!

And the problem with Bola Tinubu is that, unlike Obasanjo, he is a coward. The North knows that they have finished using Tinubu. After Buhari’s re-election, they see him as being as useful as a used sanitary pad. In their eye, he is only as relevant as the ‘p’ in psychology.

They also know that he is too cowardly to stand up to them and so they are toying with him and disrobing him before his own people. They intend the complete and total demystification of the bullion van-loving lion of Bourdillon.

The drama between El-Rufai and Bola Tinubu just serves to expose the servile and bootlicking nature of Bola Tinubu. It is almost like an episode of Game of Thrones. In this episode, Nasir El-Rufai insulted Bola Tinubu. But rather than face his SLAVE MASTER, who insulted him, Bola Tinubu rather PROJECTED his anger in an UNPROVOKED attack on the Peoples Democratic Party, calling them all sorts of names.

This is what they call TRANSFERENCE in psychology, where a PSYCHOLOGICAL PATIENT transfers his aggression on another person because he is too COWARDLY to face the real object of his anger!

I urge the leaders of the Southwest to look at the man who parades himself as their leader. Surely, they cannot trust the fate of 40 million Yoruba to such an anodyne creature!

A man that can be insulted so irreverently by Nasir El-Rufai and just takes it. Say what you will about Olusegun Obasanjo, but this could never have happened to him.

Bola Tinubu once said this about Obasanjo in a March 25, 2012 interview with Vanguard newspapers:

Tinubu “If you underestimate Obasanjo, it is at your own peril because he has the character, strategy and will to destabilize you and you are gone to the bush, you are gone to the rubble. Very deceitful.”

The above assessment is very correct. This is the type of leader the Southwest needs to plot their political ascendancy post 2019, not a servile bootlicker that can be toyed with by Nasir El-Rufai. Not at all.

Bola Tinubu is nothing but a Quisling. He is not fit to stand beside Olusegun Obasanjo, perhaps the greatest leader to have come out of Africa. It is just a pity, that it is the North that knows this man’s worth more than the South and more than his own people.

But in an attempt to make them appreciate the blessing that God gave them, let me just talk a little about Obasanjo.

Before Olusegun Obasanjo became Nigeria’s military head of state in 1976, Nigeria had had four previous leaders. They were Prime Minister Abubakar Tarawa Balewa, Major General Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi, General Yakubu Gowon and General Murtala Mohammed.

Of the four, three were murdered. The one who was not murdered (Yakubu Gowon), was overthrown.

Olusegun Obasanjo is the first Nigerian leader to have had a natural tenure uninterrupted by coups, death or tragedy. Think about that.

And then between 1979, when he handed power to President Shehu Shagari, and 1999, when he returned as a democratically elected President, Nigeria had six leaders.

They are the late President Shehu Shagari, Major General Muhammadu Buhari, General Ibrahim Babangida, Chief Ernest Shonekan, General Sani Abacha and General Abdulsalami Abubakar.

Of these six leaders, four of them were removed either by a coup, civil unrest or with a gun pointed to their head. One of them died as a victim of a conspiracy whose plotters we still do not know. And the last one, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, hurriedly hashed over before the fate of his predecessors befell him.

Olusegun Obasanjo, who returned as a democratically elected President on May 29, 1999, is the second Nigerian leader to have a natural tenure, uninterrupted by coups, death or tragedy. Think about that again.

He is the author of six books. Is an intellectual. Is able to speak truth to power and go to prison for doing so.

This man was so courageous that when he was

informed in Copenhagen by then US ambassador to Nigeria, Walter Carrington, that General Sani Abacha would arrest him if he returned home, he chose to return home. This is even where he had been offered asylum by the West.

But let us come back to reality. Let us face the present.

All over Nigeria, and also in the Southwest, herdsmen of Fulani heritage have been killing Nigerians without the Buhari administration doing anything tangible to stop them or bring them to justice.

Almost everyone has been afraid to speak up and hold the Buhari government to account. That is until Obasanjo spoke on the matter on May 19, 2019 when he slammed the Buhari administration and said that the herdsmen and Boko Haram killings are “no longer an issue of lack of education and lack of employment for our youths in Nigeria which it began as, it is now West African fulanization, African Islamization”.

Four days later, Nobel laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, put aside his well-known animus for former President Olusegun Obasanjo, to agree with him on his comments on herdsmen and Boko Haram and their Islamisation agenda, and condemned the Buhari government.

That took courage! The type of courage that Bola Tinubu, sadly, does not have. What is Tinubu doing as herdsmen kill his people? He is licking the boots of the Grand Patron. Igbo man say tufiakwa!

Reno’s Nuggets In life, people celebrate you for being FAKE and hate you for being REAL. If you support ABORTION, GAY MARRIAGE and ATHEISM, they will clap for you, give you awards, call you brave and courageous. But one day, you will die and stand before a very REAL God to be judged, and those who hailed you will move on to the next FOOL. Don’t live your life to secure people’s APPLAUSE. Live it with God’s JUDGMENT in mind #FreeLeahSharibu #RenosNuggets

Reno’s Darts Congratulations to acting IG of Police on your confirmation by President Buhari as substantive Inspector General (no longer acting). Obviously, you must have lost enough weight to have been bestowed this worthy honour. Do please tell Rotimi Amaechi your secret, so he can get rid of his potbelly and be assured of reappointment! #FreeLeahSharibu #RenosDarts.

T H I S D AY • SUNDAY MAY 26, 2019

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28

T H I S D AY • SUNDAY MAY 26, 2019

ADVERTORIAL

T H I S D AY • SUNDAY MAY 26, 2019

29

ADVERTORIAL

30

˜ ˞ MAY 26, 2019

MARKET NEWS

Robust Dividend Payout Excites Nigerian Breweries Shareholders Goddy Egene Shareholders of Nigerian Breweries Plc have approved the dividend payout of N19.4 billion for the 2018 financial year, translating to 243 kobo per ordinary share. The shareholders, who gave the approval at the 73rd annual general meeting(AGM) of the company held in Lagos,

commended the capacity of the board and the management for keeping the company stable and strong in the face of numerous challenges.

The shareholders also hailed Nigerian Breweries Plc for paying 100 per cent dividend to them at a time when many quoted companies were finding it difficult to pay dividends to shareholders.

A Mutual fund (Unit Trust) is an investment vehicle managed by a SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) registered Fund Manager.

Investors with similar objectives buy units of the Fund so that the Fund Manager can buy securities that willl generate their desired return.

An ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) is a type of fund which owns the assets (shares of stock, bonds, oil futures, gold bars, foreign currency, etc.) and divides ownership of those assets into shares. Investors can buy these ‘shares’ on the

One of the shareholders, Mr. Nornah Awoh, was quoted as expressing appreciation to the board and management of Nigerian Breweries Plc for the efficient management of resources which has helped to sustain positive outlook for the business despite challenging operating environment. “Even with the introduction

floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

A REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) is an investment vehicle that allows both small and large investors to part-own real estate ventures (eg.

Offices, Houses, Hospitals) in proportion to their investments. The assets are divided into shares that are traded on the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

GUIDE TO DATA: Date: All fund prices are quoted in Naira as at 23May-2019, unless otherwise stated.

of excise duty by the government last year, the company was still able to fulfil its promise to the shareholders and still be competitive,� he said.

In his address to shareholders, the Chairman of Nigerian Breweries Plc, Chief Kola Jamodu explained that the company’s performance for 2018 financial year was good though there was

a decline in profit‌..dip of about 5% between 2017 and 2018 results.

He disclosed that despite increasing cost of running business as a result of increase in excise duty tariff by federal government and the double digit inflation witnessed in the country’s economy last year, the company could not pass the cost to consumers due partly to weak

purchasing power.

On his part, the Company Secretary/Legal Director, Nigerian Breweries Plc, Uaboi Agbebaku disclosed that the 2018 financial year recorded a big boost as sales volume grew for the company even though cost of sales was a bit higher. “We sold more in 2018 despite the cost going a bit up.

Offer price: The price at which units of a trust or ETF are bought by investors.

Bid Price: The price at which Investors redeem (sell) units of a trust or ETF. Yield/Total Return: Denotes the total return an investor would have earned on his investment. Money Market Funds report Yield while others report Year- to-date Total Return.

NAV: Is value per share of the real estate assets held by a REIT on a specific date.

DAILY PRICE LIST FOR MUTUAL FUNDS, REITS and ETFS MUTUAL FUNDS / UNIT TRUSTS AFRINVEST ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD aaml@afrinvest.com Web: www.afrinvest.com; Tel: +234 1 270 1680 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Afrinvest Equity Fund 145.70 147.49 -7.45% Afrinvest Plutus Fund 100.00 100.00 8.11% Nigeria International Debt Fund 277.23 277.23 1.47% ALTERNATIVE CAPITAL PARTNERS LTD info@acapng.com Web: www.acapng.com, Tel: +234 1 291 2406, +234 1 291 2868 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ACAP Canary Growth Fund N/A N/A N/A ACAP Income Funds N/A N/A N/A AIICO CAPITAL LTD ammf@aiicocapital.com Web: www.aiicocapital.com, Tel: +234-1-2792974 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AIICO Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 13.27% AIICO Balanced Fund 2.30 2.32 3.26% ARM INVESTMENT MANAGERS LTD enquiries@arminvestmentcenter.com Web: www.arm.com.ng; Tel: 0700 CALLARM (0700 225 5276) Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ARM Aggressive Growth Fund 15.51 15.98 -6.51% ARM Discovery Fund 344.98 355.39 -3.27% ARM Ethical Fund 29.13 30.01 3.15% ARM Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 13.11% AXA MANSARD INVESTMENTS LIMITED investmentcare@axamansard.com Web: www.axamansard.com; Tel: +2341-4488482 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AXA Mansard Equity Income Fund 96.31 96.99 -4.82% AXA Mansard Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 12.34% CAPITAL EXPRESS ASSET AND TRUST LIMITED info@capitalexpressassetandtrust.com Web: www.capitalexpressassetandtrust.com ; Tel: +234 803 307 5048 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn CEAT Fixed Income Fund 1.82 1.82 14.74% CHAPELHILL DENHAM MANAGEMENT LTD investmentmanagement@chapelhilldenham.com Web: www.chapelhilldenham.com, Tel: +234 461 0691 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Chapelhill Denham Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 13.76% Paramount Equity Fund 12.01 12.10 1.64% Women's Investment Fund 105.68 106.22 1.99% CORDROS ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmgtteam@cordros.com Web: www.cordros.com, Tel: 019036947 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Cordros Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 12.70% Cordros Milestone Fund 2023 98.91 99.37 Cordros Milestone Fund 2028 98.87 99.18 CORONATION ASSEST MANAGEMENT investment@coronationam.com Web:www.coronationam.com , Tel: 012366215 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Coronation Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 12.31% Coronation Balanced Fund 0.82 0.82 Coronation Fixed Income Fund 1.20 1.20 6.73% EDC FUNDS MANAGEMENT LIMITED mutualfundng@ecobank.com Web: www.ecobank.com Tel: 012265281 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class A 100.00 100.00 12.51% EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class B 1,000,000.00 1,000,000.00 12.26% FBNQUEST ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD invest@fbnquest.com Web: www.fbnquest.com/asset-management; Tel: +234-81 0082 0082 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn FBN Fixed Income Fund 1,189.26 1,190.09 6.53% FBN Heritage Fund 143.38 144.34 0.42% FBN Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 13.15% FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Institutional 115.80 116.19 4.86% FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Retail 115.78 116.18 5.10% FBN Nigeria Smart Beta Equity Fund 137.51 139.46 -8.33% FIRST CITY ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD fcamhelpdesk@fcmb.com Web: www.fcamltd.com; Tel: +234 1 462 2596 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Legacy Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 11.28% Legacy Debt Fund 3.40 3.40 4.81% Legacy Equity Fund 1.12 1.14 -7.92% Legacy USD Bond Fund 1.05 1.05 1.88% FSDH ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD coralfunds@fsdhgroup.com Web: www.fsdhaml.com; Tel: 01-270 4884-5; 01-280 9740-1 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Coral Growth Fund 2,967.02 2,996.33 -0.58% Coral Income Fund 2,893.53 2,893.53 5.62% GREENWICH ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmanagement@gtlgroup.com Web: www.gtlgroup.com ; Tel: +234 1 4619261-2 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Greenwich Plus Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 11.74% Nigeria Entertainment Fund 107.00 107.38 -0.28% GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmanagement@gdl.com.ng Web: www.gdl.com.ng ; Tel: +234 9055691122 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn GDL Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 12.98%

INVESTMENT ONE FUNDS MANAGEMENT LTD enquiries@investment-one.com Web: www.investment-one.com; Tel: +234 812 992 1045,+234 1 448 8888 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Abacus Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 12.42% Vantage Balanced Fund 2.11 2.13 -1.74% Vantage Guaranteed Income Fund 1.00 1.00 15.88% Kedari Investment Fund (KIF) 130.20 130.28 4.18% LOTUS CAPITAL LTD ďŹ ncon@lotuscapitallimited.com Web: www.lotuscapitallimited.com; Tel: +234 1-291 4626 / +234 1-291 4624 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Lotus Halal Investment Fund 1.22 1.25 6.62% Lotus Halal Fixed Income Fund 1,100.11 1,100.11 5.38% MERISTEM WEALTH MANAGEMENT LTD info@meristemwealth.com Web: http://www.meristemwealth.com/funds/ ; Tel: +234 1-4488260 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Meristem Equity Market Fund 10.72 10.78 -6.95% Meristem Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 12.05% PAC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD info@pacassetmanagement.com Web: www.pacassetmanagement.com/mutualfunds; Tel: +234 1 271 8632 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn PACAM Balanced Fund N/A N/A N/A PACAM Fixed Income Fund N/A N/A N/A PACAM Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A SCM CAPITAL LIMITED info@scmcapitalng.com Web: www.scmcapitalng.com; Tel: +234 1-280 2226,+234 1- 280 2227 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn SCM Capital Frontier Fund 120.25 120.63 -0.47% SFS CAPITAL NIGERIA LTD investments@sfsnigeria.com Web: www.sfsnigeria.com, Tel: +234 (01) 2801400 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn SFS Fixed Income Fund 1.02 1.02 5.48% STANBIC IBTC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD assetmanagement@stanbicibtc.com Web: www.stanbicibtcassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 1 280 1266; 0700 MUTUALFUNDS Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Stanbic IBTC Balanced Fund 2,359.12 2,372.76 1.94% Stanbic IBTC Bond Fund 201.24 201.24 5.84% Stanbic IBTC Ethical Fund 0.92 0.93 -2.63% Stanbic IBTC Guaranteed Investment Fund 254.60 254.70 5.04% Stanbic IBTC Iman Fund 159.53 161.49 -2.16% Stanbic IBTC Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 12.67% Stanbic IBTC Nigerian Equity Fund 8,154.32 8,259.14 -3.90% Stanbic IBTC Dollar Fund (USD) 1.11 1.11 2.46% UNITED CAPITAL ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD unitedcapitalplcgroup.com Web: www.unitedcapitalplcgroup.com; Tel: +234 803 306 2887 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn United Capital Balanced Fund 1.19 1.20 -0.15% United Capital Bond Fund 1.69 1.69 6.26% United Capital Equity Fund 0.68 0.69 -3.86% United Capital Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 13.10% United Capital Eurobond Fund 110.79 110.79 3.29% United Capital Wealth for Women Fund 1.12 1.12 2.41% QUANTUM ZENITH ASSET MANAGEMENT & INVESTMENTS LTD service@quantumzenithasset.com.ng Web: www.quantumzenith.com.ng; Tel: +234 1-2784219 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Zenith Equity Fund 10.58 10.75 0.37% Zenith Ethical Fund Zenith Income Fund Zenith Money Market Fund

11.93 21.81 1.00

12.08 21.81 1.00

0.00% 13.12% 11.74%

REITS NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

5.40 120.77 52.38

-44.85% 2.58% 1.24%

Bid Price

Offer Price

Yield / T-Rtn

10.02 98.80 81.96

10.12 100.89 83.47

-5.01% -15.78% -7.57%

Fund Name FSDH UPDC Real Estate Investment Fund SFS Skye Shelter Fund Union Homes REIT

EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS Fund Name Lotus Halal Equity Exchange Traded Fund SIAML Pension ETF 40 Stanbic IBTC ETF 30 Fund

VETIVA FUND MANAGERS LTD Web: www.vetiva.com; Tel: +234 1 453 0697 Fund Name Vetiva Banking Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva Consumer Goods Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva GrifďŹ n 30 Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva Industrial Goods Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva S&P Nigeria Sovereign Bond Exchange Traded Fund

funds@vetiva.com Bid Price

Offer Price

Yield / T-Rtn

3.42 6.21 13.32 11.23 155.79

3.46 6.29 13.42 11.43 157.79

-14.52% -18.38% -10.84% -9.04% 8.48%

NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

106.90

17.40%

INFRASTRUCTURE FUND Fund Name Chapel Hill Denham Nigeria Infrastructure Debt Fund

The value of investments and the income from them may fall as well as rise. Past performance is a guide and not an indication of future returns. Fund prices published in this edition are also available on each fund manager’s website and FMAN’s website at www.fman.com.ng. Fund prices are supplied by the operator of the relevant fund and are published for information purposes only.

A

WEEKLY PULL-OUT

26.05.2019

Falz the Bahd Guy Understanding Falz the Social Critic ASSISTANT EDITOR OLUFUNKE OLAODE/funkola2000@gmail.com

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T H I S DAY, T H E S U N DAY N E W S PA P E R ˞ Ͱʹ, Ͱ͎ͯ͡

COVER

Vanessa Obioha writes that Folarin Falana, aka Falz tha Bahd Guy, made a name for himself as an entertainer in the creative industry, but his identity as a social critic is not one that many want to familiarise themselves with

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Nigeria Is Worth Dying For

ecently, a group of journalists gathered at Fogo de Lagos in Victoria Island,  to spend a day with Folarin Falana, aka, Falz tha Bahd Guy. His PR Agency, BlackHouse Media tagged it ‘Falz Day’. Despite the heavy downpour that morning, the journalists turned out en masse to listen to what the musician has in store for his fans in his upcoming show ‘The  Falz Experience’. The show went on a brief hiatus last year after a successful debut in 2017 owing to the busy schedule of the artiste and his penchant for perfection. Now that it is back, the organisers are throwing all in the ring to leave a lasting impression.

Due to the morning’s heavy rain, Falz arrived late. Yet his arrival turned heads. Dressed in a matching short and polo, with his socks all rolled up in sneakers, Falz painted the picture of a schoolboy. The picture is reminiscent of the listening party of his ‘Moral Instruction’ album earlier this year where he encouraged his audience to don school uniforms befitting for a classroom setting.

The attention is somehow expected.

Falz who was barely known almost a decade ago has become the poster boy of the Falanas, a family of lawyers. His father, a senior advocate of Nigeria and a human rights lawyer, Femi Falana and his wife, Funmi gained popularity in the country for their human rights activities and legal prowess. His sisters too have also cut their teeth in the legal profession.

Falz studied law but his passion for music outweighed the legal call to the dismay of his mother back then. Now she is a very proud mother. When Falz won the BET award for the Best New International Act in 2016,  it was his joyous mother and his family members that hosted a private party at Protea Hotel in Ikeja for him. When he held his first headline concert in 2017, his parents were there in the crowd, cheering their son’s ingenuity.

Indeed, Falz has brought eminence to his family’s doorsteps without necessarily using his surname. He paved his way in the industry by deploying a rather interesting strategy that catapulted him to the top.

His hat-trick was to create a funny persona, Brother Taju and uploaded comedy skits on his Instagram page.

He used an affected Yoruba accent

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COVER

Nigerian Superstar Mixing Fire with Fun tinged with colloquial expressions, enhanced by his unique pair of framed spectacles without lens, similar to that of a popular Yoruba actor, Baba Sala.

Over a short period of time, this character gained the required attention. It created the opportunity he desired to introduce his music.

His first major hit that shot into the spotlight was the single ‘Marry Me’ featuring Yemi Alade which earned him a nod in the 2015 Nigeria Entertainment Awards.

Falz gained prominence as an actor when actress Funke Akindele made him a regular face in her TV comedy series ‘Jenifa’s Diary’ which has fetched the entertainer AMVCA awards. He had also featured in other movies including ‘Merry Men’ and ‘Chief Daddy’.

To further cement his place in the industry, he headlined his first concert, ‘The Falz Experience’ in 2017. The show produced by Livespot 360 was a theatrical representation of Falz and his alter egos and received rave reviews. The show expectedly gulped N300 million.

While he is tight-lipped about the figures surrounding the second edition scheduled for June 8, he, however, hinted that the budget is bigger.

‘Falz the Experience’ is coming at a time when his music is receiving heavy criticism. To be sure, Falz’s music which he calls ‘Wahzup Music’ is highly appreciated. It is a fusion of comic lyrics with contemporary hip-hop in a faux Yoruba accent. It was easy for the Nigerian audience to embrace Falz the Bahd Guy as a newborn when he stuck to making music that entertained, but they are finding it hard to accept the social critic who chose to make conscious music. Arguably, that part of him was glimpsed when he released ‘This is Nigeria’, a song that addressed all the social and political ills in the country.

The song was inspired by American rapper Childish Gambino’s ‘This is America’.

The reactions to that video must have opened Falz eyes because months later, he released his fourth album ‘Moral Instruction, a ninetrack album that centres on issues such as politics, corruption, and equality. Generally, it leans towards the activism that defines the Afrobeat legend, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti’s body of work, with each track possessing strong afrobeat flavours with a touch of contemporary hip hop influences.

The most controversial song on that album is ‘Talk’ where Falz boldly expresses his disgust for transactional sex. For this, Falz was heavily pilloried, particularly for those who abide by the tenets of feminism.

To them, he portrayed young girls as being sexually promiscuous for pecuniary benefits without addressing the benefactors, who in this case are older men or well-to-do younger ones.

“I have received backlash for this. Some asked ‘do you think you are perfect, who are you to say this, to judge?’ At the end of the day, nobody is perfect. I have never said or portrayed myself as holy,” said Falz.

“But if we are to get ourselves out of the situation that we are in, I believe we have to somehow rejig our morals.

As entertainers, we have a huge voice, a huge platform and if I do not use my platform to speak or to address or steer my music into the right direction, then I think I’m doing a disservice to my fans which is why I will continue

to do conscious music despite the backlash.”

The backlash that has continued to trail him had two effects. First, he felt misunderstood.

He added: “I have been misinterpreted especially in recent times. And to a large extent, I understand the sentiments and feelings of the people that have misinterpreted me. The biggest misconception about my person is that I’m a misogynist or that I hate women.

I think it’s funny and laughable. And that’s because I have continuously spoken against the whole ‘runs’ culture. I don’t really like it and I don’t subscribe to it. It doesn’t mean that I hate them in any way. Men that do these things are equally in my eyes doing something that I don’t like.

Maybe because I have more stuff on ‘runs’, thus the misconception.

And women are the sex that is oppressed.”

Continuing, he noted: “There are patriarchy and male supremacy, and that is perpetuated in every sphere of life. I understand for that reason, it could be vexing for someone listening to my music. ‘Why is that guy always talking about girls, he is also a patriarch’, but that’s not right.

I have also made music that talked about women being oppressed, sexual abuse such as ‘Child of the World’.

There are songs on ‘Moral Instruction’ that talked about human trafficking.

I pay a lot of attention to music that affects everybody.

There is no way that anyone can call me a misogynist.”

Secondly, he is resolute in making

conscious music and believe it or not, he thinks that Nigeria is worth dying for.

“Yes, I think Nigeria is worth dying for. I think it is unpatriotic for anyone to say Nigeria is not worth dying for. I understand what reason may be because of precedents and how things have been,” explained Falz. “At the end of the day, we are all going to die one day, so it is better to die for a cause. We should be able to fight for what we believe in, regardless of the consequences, that is where I stand.

Which is why I will continue to make good music.

I’m not scared of any threats to my life.”

Being a musician and a social critic often times puts one in a quagmire particularly when colleagues are involved. In Falz case, he deflected the question on his thoughts about Naira Marley, the musician who was recently arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for cyber fraud. He rather chose to speak generally on cybercrime.

“I have always said and perhaps I was the

first person to even get backlash for this. I have never been a fan of celebrating cybercrime. But I will say it again. Cybercrime is wrong, it is giving us a terrible name especially outside Nigeria. Cybercrime is destroying our youths and I understand the sentiment of people not being privileged, feeling that they don’t have opportunities but what about people that are out there, actually putting in an effort, working and toiling day and night through legitimate means and not just taking from someone else,” Falz explained.

“You may be thinking that the person falls for it...I believe that you should live your life and let others live their life as long as yours do not affect others, then you can do whatever you like. But when you are taking from someone else, it’s an offence and a crime against humanity. It is bad. I never subscribe to that, and will never be.”

The criticisms so far have not reduced his fanbase. Few days after he announced the show on his Instagram page, the early birds’ tickets were sold out. He is confident that the show will attract more audience than its previous edition.

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T H I S DAY, T H E S U N DAY N E W S PA P E R ˞ Ͱʹ, Ͱ͎ͯ͡

PERSONALITY

Ayorinde

Steve Ayorinde

Ambode’s Dream of Turning Lagos to a Tourism Hub Has Been Achieved

Y

The glint in his eyes reflects through his spectacle. There is fervour in his eloquence as he talks about the Governor Akinwunmi Ambode administration that will come to an end in a matter of days. Steve Ayorinde, the Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, in this interview with Funke Olaode talks about the transformation Lagos has experienced in the last four years and its impact on the megacity’s economy. Excerpts:

ou have been part of the outgoing Governor Ambode’s administration since inception. How has it been in the last four years?

Nice, enjoyable, eye-opening, challenging and at the same time a learning process to serve in government and at the end of the day, it is education, opportunity to contribute one’s quota to the wellbeing of your people. I was a journalist and you know there is no night in the newsroom when we were in the newsroom it is either filing reports, editing or writing opinion articles. Sometimes, we are shielded on how government operates and how the public sector works. Only when we attend their events for press conferences or meetings with top functionaries in government – even when you do that you only listen to them. You do not have a deep understanding of how government works their limitations, the very meaning of bureaucracy and all that. So when you come in on invitation or whichever way and you have an opportunity to serve in whichever capacity especially if it is a

cabinet position, it means that you are now part of the decision making. So you know, you learn and if you are the type, like many of our senior colleagues and friends, who will have to return to the newsroom, or to media-related setting, you will be coming with a different perspective and hopefully maybe you would have had an opportunity to at least try to impact on what you met in the system. For me, I have an understanding of how Lagos works. So, I have enjoyed the experience, I have learned from it.

As the commissioner for tourism, arts, and culture, your tenure will be over in less than one week, what are some of the achievements of Lagos State in terms of tourism?

Tourism has been one of the cornerstone ministries in this administration. But I think the first kudos that we should give to this administration, particularly the governor, is that for the first time Lagos now has a ministry that is wholly devoted to matters of tourism and culture. It’s never used to be like that.

Tourism cohabited with inter-governmental relations before now, and then the culture was under the home affairs ministry. So the first thing the governor did was to say let us bring every agency, department that is about the creative economy under one roof and create a ministry.

So, he removed culture out of home affairs and tourism out of inter-governmental relations and now created tourism and culture. If you recall at the federal level, the argument has always been, don’t subsume tourism and culture under information ministry, which is why you have a minister supervising culture and tourism and information. Here, information and strategy are separate but culture and tourism didn’t stand alone until 2015when the governor came. So I think that is a major achievement because it gives you focus, the strategy is undivided, there are no distractions, everything that you are dealing with whether it is about infrastructural development, whether it is about policy ideas, content, whether it is about stakeholder engagement, they are all about tourism, art, and culture. I think that is important and it is a major achievement.

Looking at Lagos State in terms of the transformation, you have theatres in the state’s four divisions. What’s the economic impact on Lagos?

It is said in tourism development in Africa that one out of every new 10 jobs created in Africa, one is from tourism and culture. This also applies to Lagos. Because the economic value of what this government has done is that it has engendered the development of tourism activities around tourist areas in the state. You look at what we do every December, One Lagos fiesta, it is by far the biggest open-air end-of-year concert anywhere in Africa. It runs for eight straight days in five different divisions of the state. Do you know how many people have benefitted from this initiative?

From those who will construct the stage to food vendors, water sellers, taxi drivers, local dancers, comedians, master of ceremonies (MCs), it means that people in Epe, Badagry, Ikorodu, and Agege, who otherwise would have wanted to go to bar beach for such a show now have something of their own. And we hear from people, from

MAY 26, 2019 ˾T H I S DAY, T H E S U N DAY N E W S PA P E R

PERSONALITY

Arise Fashion Show Has Shown the World Lagos Is Safe But I think the first kudos that we should give to this administration, particularly the governor, is that for the first time Lagos now has a ministry that is wholly devoted to matters of tourism and culture. It’ never used to be like that. Tourism cohabited with inter-governmental relations before now, and then the culture was under the home affairs ministry Ayorinde vendors, food sellers, who say that in eight days of One Lagos Fiesta they make more money than what they would have made in three months.

The economy is developing, because you have multinational like NB Plc, Pepsi, GTBank, etc., being part of it.

Does it mean that you have achieved the purpose, because people seem to think the culture of theatre is dead?

What Terra Kulture has shown to us is that it is thriving, what Freedom Park has shown to us is that thriving and that it can attract sponsorship.

OLM has shown to us that big music concert even by the government can attract sponsorship. So the theatre is not dying but a theatre facility anyway is not just for live theatre activities alone, if you give, say Oregun theatre or Igando theatre, to a technical management facility person that will run it, maybe theatre shows just like Bolanle does at Terra Kulture, maybe once a week alone or once a month, but the comedy shows are there, they sell, the hall is packed full, they have a way of getting sponsors. Rehearsals will be there, musicals will be there, traditional shows, teen screening will be there, so it depends on how you now manage all these things to ensure that the theatres are kept busy.

Everybody knows that partnership with the private sector thrives anywhere in the world and in terms of the government talking about sustainability, what measures have been put in place?

If the government runs it, you know how it is, most of the government’s activities shut down at 4 pm yet you will have a 24-hour thing.

By government, I mean civil servant can’t run it. We have commissioned two, Epe will be commissioned on Friday and then Badagry on Monday. So, what we are doing now is that we are test-running the place with our cultural troupe, the Foot Prince of David performed for the President at Oregun theatre while our performing troupe performed for the governor at Igando theatre. But then because a new government is coming in, the management contract of how they will be run will be executed by that government so that they can start afresh. But government can run it because we already have a working model, the government gave money to an architectural farm under Fashola’s regime to turn the old colonial prison on Broad Street and that is what has become Freedom Park. Freedom Park today is probably the busiest park space in Nigeria: restaurants, galleries, conferences, and shows – everything – can be found there. Guess what, after building that structure, which government paid for, the government now handed it over to the same architectural firm and say we can’t run it, run it for us and remit money to the government.

You know we are also building the JK Randle Centre for Yoruba, you and Culture at Onikan, for

which it is at 35 percent completion.

In terms of beautification, Lagos has been transformed significantly. Is the trend going to continue with the new administration and again how has this beautification affected tourism in Lagos?

I have no doubt that it will continue. If you recall, there are five pillars that Governor Sanwo-Olu wants to focus on. The fifth pillar is for tourism, culture, and sports. So I believe that the level where we have taken matters of tourism and creative economy to, it is only logical for the incoming administration to continue. And in any case, two key documents that will assist the incoming administration to succeed will be presented to the incoming administration. First, is the Lagos Tourism Master Plan, which is a 20-year document, it is the blueprint on how tourism will grow in Lagos State (2018-2038). Second, is the Lagos State Tourism Promotion Agency Law, it is a bill that has been passed into law by the House of Assembly and signed by the governor.

What measures are there to keep Lagos safe and sustain its tourism drive?

I think what needs to be done is to continue along the line that we have started in 2015, which in itself is also a continuation of the attention that the Asiwaju’s time and Fashola’s time gave to matters of security. But governor Ambode added to the whole thing in 2015, when he rebranded RRS, which was also acknowledged by the federal government by donating necessary equipment, vehicles, gadgets, etc., to the police to be able to function better. It is little wonder then that the Daily Mail of London in April 2018 said Lagos and Nairobi ranked highest in the search engine of British citizens who are looking for summer destinations outside of Europe. ThisDay is driving the Arise Fashion Show, and I read the beautiful things that Vogue and the New York Times wrote about the Arise Fashion Show, which is the reason why it has been listed twice in a roll in 2018 and this year in our calendar of art events. The Arise Fashion Show fulfil, for us, part of the sort for internationally recognized content that will reassure people that Lagos is safe. That is what assures visitors and tourists, it is not to assume that there will not be a crime in a megacity. There will be. But can it be dealt with swiftly, the same way that an emergency situation can be dealt with swiftly?

So what is your next move as you round off your tenure?

The combination of private sector top management and experience and public sector cabinet level experience in Lagos state simply means that the world is there for you. A technocrat in the government has a second address, as a consultant, as a publisher, as a journalist – so there are a number of things on the plate.

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THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER Ëž ͺ͞ ͺ͸͚Î

60

AROUND THE WORLD

May: The Conservative Leader Brought Down by Brexit

B

ritain’s second female prime minister, like the first, has ultimately been brought down

by Conservative in-fighting over Europe.

But Theresa May is unlikely to join Margaret Thatcher in the annals of leaders who left an indelible mark on their country. At least not in the way she might have wanted when she entered Downing Street in July 2016.

Whatever ambitions she had - to reach out to the forgotten parts of the nation, or correct the “burning injustices� in British society - were overshadowed by a single word: Brexit.

Her almost three years in office were entirely defined by Britain’s decision to leave the European Union, and her increasingly desperate efforts to deliver on the outcome of the referendum called by her predecessor David Cameron.

Even her sternest critics had to marvel at her ability to soak up the punishment that came, in wave after wave, from all sides.

Ministerial resignations and parliamentary rebellions that would have spelled the end for a prime minister in normal times seemed to bounce off her.

She ploughed on, seemingly oblivious to the chaos around her, telling MPs “nothing has changed� and promising to deliver on the “will� of British people, even as her power over Parliament and control of her warring party drained away to nothing.

It might have been different had she managed to win the 2017 general election.

But instead of returning to Downing Street with a huge mandate of her own, as she had expected, she lost her Commons majority and had to rely on the support of Northern Ireland’s Democratic Unionist Party.

She never really recovered from this self-inflicted wound, with a sense that many of her MPs were only keeping her in office until she had delivered Brexit before jettisoning her in favour of a more voter-friendly alternative.

At one point, she had to promise she would quit before the next scheduled election in 2022, as she battled to win a no-confidence vote organised by her own MPs. And then, as the end neared - and she had alienated many MPs by blaming them for the deadlock over Brexit - she was forced, finally, to accept that the party, which had never elected her as leader, did not want her to serve any more.

She offered her own departure as the final sacrifice to her internal critics, telling them she would stand down if they voted for her EU withdrawal deal.

A venerable Tory colleague once described Theresa May as a “bloody difficult woman�. She wore the label as a badge of honour.

She was said to have a dry wit in private, but her public persona, even when she was trying to lighten up, could be wooden and forced, and even close colleagues were said to have difficulty working out what she was really thinking.

Her single-minded, unshowy and

May

diligent approach to politics enabled her to steadily navigate her way to the very top of a party that had traditionally favoured men from more privileged backgrounds than her own when she had first joined it in the late 1970s.

And despite what it must feel like right now, Brexit will not be her only political epitaph.

Back Story The daughter of a Church of England vicar, Hubert, who died from injuries sustained in a car crash when she was 25, Mrs May said her father had taught her to “take people as you find them� and “treat everyone equally�.

Born in Eastbourne, East Sussex, but raised largely in Oxfordshire, she attended a state primary, an independent convent school and then a grammar school in the village of Wheatley, which became the Wheatley Park Comprehensive School during her time there.

The young Theresa Brasier, as she was then, threw herself into village life, taking part in a pantomime that was produced by her father and working in the bakery on Saturdays to earn pocket money.

Friends recall a tall, fashion-conscious young woman who, from an early age, spoke of her ambition to be the first woman prime minister.

In 1976, in her third year at Oxford University, she met her husband Philip, who was two years younger than her and president of the Oxford Union, a well-known breeding ground for future political leaders.

They were introduced at a Conservative Association disco by future Paki-

Background Date of birth: 1 October 1956 (aged 62) Jobs: MP for Maidenhead since 1997. Became prime minister in 2016 after serving as home secretary for six years.

Education: Mainly stateeducated at Wheatley Park Comprehensive School with a brief time at an independent school; St Hugh’s College, Oxford Family: Married to Philip May Hobbies: Cooking - she says she owns more than 150 recipe books. Mountain-walking holidays with her husband. stani Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto.

Both claim it was “love at first sight�.

They married in 1980.

There are no tales of drunken student revelry from Mrs May’s time at Oxford, but friends say she was not the austere figure she would later come to be seen as, suggesting she had a sense of fun and a full social life.

After graduating with a degree in geography, May went to work in the City, initially starting work at the Bank of England and later rising to become head of the European Affairs Unit of the Association for Payment Clearing Services.

She first dipped her toe in the political water in 1992, when she stood in the safe Labour seat of North West

Durham, coming a distant second. Her fellow candidates in that contest also included a very youthful Tim Farron, who went on to become a Lib Dem leader.

Two years later, she stood in Barking, east London, in a by-election where with the Conservative government at the height of its unpopularity - she got fewer than 2,000 votes and saw her vote share dip more than 20%. But her luck was about to change.

The Conservatives’ electoral fortunes may have hit a nadir in 1997, when Tony Blair came to power in a Labour landslide, but there was a silver lining for the party and for the aspiring politician when she won the seat of Maidenhead in Berkshire, having beaten her future chancellor Philip Hammond to be selected as the candidate. It’s a seat she has held ever since.

An early advocate of Conservative “modernisation� in the wilderness years that followed, Mrs May quickly joined the shadow cabinet in 1999, under William Hague, as shadow education secretary and in 2002 she became the party’s first female chairman under Iain Duncan Smith.

She launched a drive to get more women selected as Conservative candidates in winnable seats but antagonised the party’s grass roots by telling them in a conference speech that they were still seen by some as “the nasty party� and had to change their ways.

She was initially appointed shadow leader of the House of Commons, but gradually raised her standing and by 2009 had become shadow work and pensions secretary.

Nevertheless, her promotion to the job of home secretary when the Conservatives joined with the Lib Dems to form the first coalition government in 70 years was still something of a surprise - given that Chris Grayling had been shadowing the brief in opposition.

The Home Office had proved to be the kiss of death for many a promising political career, but Mrs May refused to let this happen to her.

Theresa May initially fell down the pecking order under David Cameron but worked her way back up She became the longest-serving occupant of the office in recent history, staying in the post for six years, and developing a reputation as a tough operator who would always fight her corner. She became Conservative leader and prime minister in July 2016 without a general election, following the resignation of David Cameron.

Like Mr Cameron, she had been against Brexit but she cleverly managed to keep the Eurosceptics in her party on side during the referendum campaign by keeping a low profile.

She reaped her reward by emerging as the unchallenged successor to Mr Cameron, as other potential rivals fell by the wayside - portraying herself as a steady pair of hands who would deliver the will of the people and take Britain out of the EU in as orderly a fashion as possible.

At 59, she was the oldest leader to enter Downing Street since James Callaghan in 1976.

MAY 26 , 2019 ˾ T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R

High Life

61 with KAYODE ALFRED 08116759807, E-mail: kayflex2@yahoo.com

...Amazing lifestyles of Nigeria’s rich and famous

Woman At The Top: Oyin Adeyemi, From Sad… Nike Akande Bereaved Boardroom to Lecture Room For former minister and grand matriarch of high society, Nike Akande, the days seem bleaker and the nights darker. Nature seems to have lost its cheer and even the birds have turned mute in sorrow.

The bells of mortality have tolled fatefully and called away her closest and dearest to the great beyond.

A cloud of mourning hangs over the families of Adisa of Ilé Oluwo Compound and Aboderin, both in Ibadan as they lost a daughter, mother, sister and pillar of support to the cold hands of death. The sister of HIGH Chief (Mrs) Nike Akande, Olori Mojisola Esther Abass departed the world on Friday, May 17. She was 68.

The late Mojisola was the wife of the Bejeroko of Oke Agbo, Ijebu Igbo, Oba Olaoye Abass. She was by all accounts a caring and dutiful queen who fusslessly combined her regal duties with being an excellent mother and wife on the domestic front. All who knew her testified of her grace and charm and her kind disposition towards family and strangers alike.

She never shied away from taking the lead on community issues. She worked hard to grow her business and lived with utmost devotion to her Christian convictions. Her children, including Prince Olaoye Abass and Mr Olajide Aboderin, were moulded into the success stories of today largely due to her strict disciplinarian approach.

Meanwhile, Chief Nike, the Ekerin Iyalode of Ibadan, nurses a wound so deep time might never heal. Yet, as the grand dame of high society, she has witnessed a lot in her eventful life that will clock 75 in October. As the head of the family, she has to maintain the composure to lead them all through the trying times. All this has allowed her to bear the yoke of grief with equanimity.

However, the family is putting finishing touches to organizing a befitting send off for the late Mojisola. With her status as a royal coupled with Nike’s own pedigree across the political, business and social terrains, it will surely not be a small time affair. Though details are still sketchy at the moment as the family are yet to finalize plans, it will surely be an event that rocks the ancient city to its foundations.

Oyin Adeyemi

Records are meant to be broken and terrains are there to be conquered. That is the guiding principle behind everything that There is a time-honoured saying among the Igbo that a man who does not know where the rain began to beat him cannot say where he dried his body.

APC chieftain and acclaimed leader of the party in Kwara State, Alhaji Lai Muhammed must be wondering just where the rain of disaffection among party faithful began to beat him. At the current rate, he is in danger of totally losing his hold on the state and turning into a ceremonial figurehead with little loyalty and love and less power.

This was borne out during the annual Ramadan Lecture organized by the Minister of Information and Culture in his native Oro, Kwara. On the D-day of the event which was advertised and proclaimed beforehand with so much fanfare, Lai Muhammed was struck with a deadly political blow that resonated throughout the state and beyond. The top party faithful in the state who were expected to grace the occasion by default were conspicuously absent. Rows of empty seats earmarked for them gave the whole thing a funereal ambience.

And Lai? Terrible was his anger at the public display of spite and grievance.

His ire towered to the skies and came crashing down on his associates who had the unenviable task of trying to pour water to douse the flames of intra-party conflict that only blazed brighter after the episode. The rebellion against what many perceive as Lai’s high handedness seems to be well and truly afoot.

woman of substance Oyin Adeyemi does. The brain behind Still Earth Construction Group pulls no punches when it comes to her objectives. She is ready to brave stormy seas and rocky climbs to achieve her dreams.

And it doesn’t matter what those dreams are or who stands between her and them. Show her an immovable barrier and she will show you an unstoppable human— herself. Throughout her long and accomplished career across banking, construction, real estate and project finance, Oyin has demonstrated the kind of resolve in the face of overwhelming odds that felled the Berlin Wall. She had her own walls to fell, and fell them she did.

But what use is all that experience if it cannot be used as nuggets of wisdom to enlighten and empower women like her on their own roads to self-actualization? Thus began the passion to inculcate the secrets of success into up and coming African women, to make their roads less

Lai Mohammed Loses Grip… As APC Top-notcher Turns Down His Invitation

Mohammed

Even the state chairman of the party Hon. Bashir Omolaja Bolarinwa and his wife merely paid him surface courtesy on the matter: they arrived very late just as the event was wrapping up.

They were not the only ones. The list of those who failed to show up at all, some throwing flippant excuses into the bargain. This is despite the invitation

Waidi Akanni’s Greed The testimonial played between former Super Eagles internationals and an African All Stars in honour of outgoing Lagos governor Akinwunmi Ambode might have come and gone but reverberations from the event linger on. And not all of them were good. In particular, the organizer of the event and himself an ex-international, Waidi Akanni, was said to have almost derailed the occasion due to his greed and high handedness.

Ahead of the testimonial tagged The Match, the football-loving governor put everything in motion to ensure everything went without a hitch. Ample funds were handed over to Akanni, the former Nike Akande

dim, their paths less rough. She has already started the process of organizing seminars and trainings for CEOs and entrepreneurs who want to go far in their chosen careers.

For Oyin, who has to break the glass ceiling in a male dominated industry, it is just right that she makes her knowledge available to others seeking to do the same. Not many will forget in a hurry how she dumped her well-paying but unfulfilling bank job to start Still Earth. At that time, she was the butt of many an ill-meaning joke, a lone woman in a sector where grand old men hoovered up all the jobs and connections.

He who laughs last laughs best.

Today, Oyin is a towering presence in construction industry. Governments and giant corporations are always chasing her around for their big construction gigs, a testament to their respect for the quality of her company’s work. The feeble seed in construction has become a tree with deep roots.

president of the fomer Lagos FA Chairman to pay all the participants and take care of everything else.

However, a few days to the event, Akanni, who had earlier promised participation gifts of cash to his fellow ex-internationals began to sing a new tune. He allegedly started giving the expectant former players the cold shoulder, shortchanging many of them on the agreed amount while declining to pay others at all. That was mooted as the reason Edema Fuludu and Friday Elaho among others refused to play in the match.

The governor, though happy at the turnout of fans at the Agege stadium was

letters being dispatched a month before the event.

The genesis of the disaffection with the man known to be a close associate of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu is a knot with many tangles but one important thread is the rumour he has been picked to return as the sole minister from Kwara in the next dispensation. This development didn’t go down well with party stalwarts, many of whom still regard him as an usurper who rode on the backs of the powers that be to assume the mantle of party leadership in the state.

Insiders revealed that Lai in a bid to spare himself the coming embarrassment frantically made calls and pleas to the APC leading lights in Kwara including the incoming governor AbdulRahman AbdulRasak.

The latter allegedly promised to show up but did not honour that promise.

Others like Arch Lola Ashiru, Senator Ajadi, Ajibola ,Yahaya Oloriegbe, Moshood Mustapha, Cook Gani Olododo, Yinka Aluko and others also left the minister high and dry with their absence. The show managed to go on, but it was just like a blockbuster movie that turned out to be a D-grade flick. No wonder the minister is angry. said to be bitterly disappointed that some of the superstars like Samuel Eto’o and Didier Drogba advertised for the event didn’t show up, a responsibility that has been placed squarely at Akanni’s door.

Another grouse about him was the feeding arrangement. Rather than the expected caterers who would provide food for everyone in attendance, what happened was that only a few people even got to eat anything, and just small chops at that. This is despite enough money for menu items having been budgeted.

Even the media and volunteers aren’t left out of those shortchanged during the event. The rewards of balls for fans and participation cash gifts for the accredited media covering the event, not to mention the volunteers, were nowhere to be seen.

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HIGHLIFE

Oba Saheed Elegushi Buys New Mansion for Latest Wife, Hadiza Tanko Details of the N100m Luxury Home

Saheed Elegushi

First wives are won over by promises of eternal love, and second wives by vows of eternal pleasure. Handsome monarch Oba Saheed Ademola Elegushi Kusenla III has taken this doctrine to heart. No sooner had he shocked the entire universe by taking another wife than he launched a mission to spoil her to the high heavens. He has been moving heaven and earth to make sure she is comfortable

and never lacks for anything and the latest is the multimillion Naira mansion he gleefully bestowed to her as a wedding gift. Â Those who have seen the posh home nestled in a super exclusive part of already exclusive Maitama, Abuja cannot but sigh with envy. Just from looking at exterior of the place can make one go gaga imagining the extravagance and opulence that awaits inside.

It was clear that this wasn’t a place hastily picked out to score bonus points with a woman. The debonair monarch already handpicked the place months in advance, making it a surprise gift for his new beloved.  Recall that earlier in the month, Oba Saheed whom many had thought will be solely tied to the heartstrings of his first wife and mother of three daughters Olori Sekinat Aramide went to Kano to marry his second wife. The woman who is henceforth to be referred to as Olori Hadiza Tanko Elegushi is the younger sister of Salihu Tanko Yakasai, who is a Special Adviser Media to the Kano State Government.

Hadiza, rumours have it, had been the influential King’s source of love by day and comfort by night for a while before their relationship was revealed to the public.

They visited choice destinations across the globe together. The fair-skinned beauty who worked in the business development section of a major oil and gas firm proved to be a fruit too sweet to discard for the impressionable monarch. Little wonder he was compelled to make her his wife number two, despite the private disapproval and protests of his first wife. Insiders allege that it took the intervention of the Ooni of Ifè Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi to settle their quarrel that threatened to turn into a public fight.

Silent Supporter ....Insiders Allege How Billionaire Businessman, Olalekan Adebiyi Supported Jimi Agbaje Life is full of delicious ironies. Some are too absurd to be believed even when they stare you in the face. Others momentarily astound onlookers only to make sense when viewed through the prism of cold analysis. Take the case of Olalekan Adebiyi, the man behind local construction giant Laralek Construction. Who would have thought that the silent billionaire also doubled as a silent backer of an unexpected camp? Â Yet that was exactly what some insiders alleged recently. According to them, Lekan is a man who is more complex than he lets on, well versed in the fine arts of doublespeak and backing two horses in the race. They claim that while he publicly mouths support for his apparent buddy Akinwunmi Ambode, and by extension the APC, in the shadows he is actually one of the financial bulwarks that propelled Jimi Agbaje during his failed attempt at the Lagos State seat of government.

Recall that since Ambode assumed office, Lekan and his construction company, previously middleweights in the industry, catapulted to the apex. He became the go-to guy for any big construction project by the state government. In Ambode’s eyes, it was Lekan and no one else. The rest were left to feed off the crumbs that the husband of beautiful Omolara declined to bother himself with.

Some of the projects he has carried out for the government included the 10-lane Lagos International Airport Road. Before then, he was front and center of the road transformation within Alimosho Local Government. As Ambode ruled, Lekan lived large, raking in billions of state Naira on a regular basis.  It is a principle that one should support the person that butters one’s bread. It is a principle Lekan is quick to practice in public, but it seems there is more than meets the eye. During Ambode’s travails in the hands of the Lagos APC hierarchy, the expected support from one of his best buddies didn’t materialize.

Nor did the man who coined his company’s name from his and his wife’s names lend much support to the APC campaign beyond token donations.  Apparently, he has been putting his eggs in two baskets so that he does not come out on the losing side no matter what outcome the electoral process threw up. He allegedly donated huge sums to the Jimi Agbaje governorship campaign. While many cannot but be impressed by his savviness to leave himself an open door, others shake their heads at the allegedly cold scheming by someone who enjoys the largesse of an APC government.

Jimi

Political Appointments: Top Politicians Trace Asiwaju Bola Tinubu To Mecca

Tinubu

It is open season for lobbyists desirous of landing juicy political appointments. As the last embers of the current dispensation slowly

die off, a new set of kindling has been gathered waiting to be lit to usher in the dreams and expectations of incoming administrations all over the country. With it comes fierce jostling for position as the nation’s political elites and jobbers alike engage in a free for all that will leave few men standing victorious and the majority with egg on their faces.  Little wonder they are determined to make hay while the sun shines and secure whatever advantage they might gain in the battle to secure positions, especially at the state and national levels. Of course a war is not fought without commanders, and few commanders alive possess the heft of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu when it comes to Lagos and national politics.

Thus, hopefuls have been flocking his way in recent days and weeks, swearing undying loyalty in hopes—some forlorn—of being pencilled down.

Even when the Lion of Bourdillon jetted out to Mecca to observe the lesser Hajj, some of the

truly desperate ones were hot on his heels.

They pursued him to the Holy Land and were making their cases there. The calculation is that he will be more at leisure to listen to them, since he will face less noise. Top politicians, especially of Muslim extraction, have turned themselves into an impromptu retinue in Mecca. Some of them are seeking federal appointments while the rest are hoping for appointments at the state level where Tinubu holds undisputed sway. Â They are especially hopeful as President Muhammadu Buhari also happened to be in Mecca to observe Umrah. He and Tinubu were seen together and no doubt would have talked about the way forward as May 29 approaches. The godfather lobbyists who made Mecca their temporary home are hoping Tinubu put in a good word for them with the president who is expected to dole out a series of appointments to loyalists in the coming days.

High Society Honours Deputy Governor-Elect Obafemi Hamzat

T

op politicians in Lagos ocked in their droves to the Blue Hall, LTV8 Agidingbi, Ikeja venue of the Fidau prayer for the late father of the Lagos Deputy Governor-elect, Obafemi Hamzat.  Hamzat’s father, Oba Mufutau Olatunji Hamzat had passed away a week earlier from agerelated complications. Until his death on Sunday, he reigned as the traditional ruler of Afowora Sogade Kingdom in Ewekoro Local Government Area of Ogun State. The late elder Hamzat was very visible in the politics of the South-West and especially Lagos State. He was a key member of the  Lagos State All Progressives Congress Governor’s Advisory Council that advised sitting Lagos governors on dierent issues. He also led the Justice Forum, a powerful and inuential caucus within the APC. Hence, not just the deputy governor’s friends and acolytes, but even the late monarch’s colleagues were on hand to pray for the sweet repose of the departed. The hall was full to the brim with the Who’s Who of the Lagos political scene. He was 86 at the time of his death.  Although the announcement of his death was a low-key aair in order to comply with the traditional customs that govern the burial of departed kings, it was gathered that Obafemi Hamzat, who will be sworn in as Sanwo-Olu’s deputy in the coming days, is putting heads together with family elders to come up with  the best course of action regarding the burial festivities.

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HIGHLIFE

Razak and Shade Okoya Light Up London for Queen’s Birthday Razak and Shade

When it comes to the list of celebrities big enough to wine and dine with kings and queens, the Aare of Lagos, Alhaji Razak Akanni Okoya and his beautiful wife, Shade never fail to get a mention. The two longtime lovebirds were at it again recently as they jetted off to London to grace a royal garden party organized at the

behest of the Queen.

That’s right, the Okoya duo who together rule over the Eleganza industrial conglomerate were personally invited to Buckingham Palace by Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth the Second, Queen of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth Realms. It was a recognition that left many of their local peers green with envy: not many people get the privilege to make small talk and admire flowers with arguably the noblest monarch alive.

Bedecked in matching outfits that proudly showed off the Nigerian culture, the Okoyas felt right at home among the galaxy of eminent personalities from all over the world that graced the occasion. Whenever they moved they turned heads and widened eyes, especially Sade. Age has not dimmed her allure even jot.

She retains the captivating quality that made her billionaire businessman husband fall head over heels in love all those years ago.

Among the world-famous guests who stormed Westminster for the Queen’s annual garden ball were the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, Prince William and Kate Middleton. They were just the icing on the cake of 8000 outstanding men and women like the Okoyas who were invited to feast on tea and sandwich with the queen on account of their contributions to their local communities.

Trust Shade to make a statement abroad just as she has been doing closer to home. She was the embodiment of class and sophistication and handled each interaction with grace and effortless ease, as if she were born for such occasions.

Supreme Court Deates Yari’s Arrogance Pride goes before destruction and a haughty spirit before a fall, is a saying that perfectly describes the fate of outgoing Zamfara State Governor Abdulaziz Yari, after the Supreme Court nullified the elections of all the candidates of the All Progressives Congress in the state for the recent 2019 general elections.

The apex court upheld the decision of the Sokoto Division of the Court of Appeal to the effect that the APC did not conduct any valid primary election and as such had no candidate for any of the elections in the state.

This is a smack in the face of Yari: His well-laid plans of retiring to Abuja to live large on the country’s resources as a Senator, while imposing his stooge on a citizenry he helped impoverish, have crumbled like a sand castle.

Yari had controversially handpicked his former commissioner for finance, Mukhtar Idris, to succeed him as governor against his party’s wishes.

But the national headquarters of the APC had issued a statement, three days to the deadline for primaries, dissolving the Zamfara State executive and banning Yari from participating in the conduct of primaries because of his interference.

However, Yari hurled insults and threatened his party’s chairman, Adams Oshiomhole. He was prepared to destroy

Yari

the APC in Zamfara to have his way. For Yari, it was his way or the highway.

This led to weeks of political turmoil, with INEC eventually banning the party from submitting the names of candidates because it failed to meet the deadline given by the commission.

Curiously however, the Court of Appeal in Abuja, two days before federal

elections on February 23, cleared Yari (and others) as senatorial candidates, and Idris as a gubernatorial candidate for the elections.

Recall that the said elections were supposed to hold on February 16 but were suspiciously postponed after Yari openly boasted that elections will not hold until he and his minions were on the ballot.

Miraculously, Yari’s APC won the gubernatorial election after he himself had secured a seat to the senate, despite not campaigning prior to elections.

Although the candidates of Yari’s faction had their election nullified by an appeal court, they went about strutting the political scene acting untouchable.

Idris attended the recently concluded induction for new and returning governors-elect despite not being issued a certificate of return by INEC. And Yari was parading himself as senator-elect with all the swagger in the world, hauling his bloated ego around Abuja, where he permanently resided during eight years of being governor, abdicating his duties as chief security officer of the state that - under his watch has been overrun by bandits.

Unfortunately for Yari, his own electoral heist has come to nought, with the Supreme Court judgment putting a spanner in the works.

Stop the Rumour! Alhaji Aminu Babangida Not at War with Sheri Shagaya Rumours are like grasses at harmattan.

Once one catches fire, the entire field turns into a conflagration of wild, billowing gossip.

It is easy to spark and hard to put down. And when the smoke has settled, many things, including close-knit friendships nurtured over the years, even decades, become burnt beyond all recognition.  Little wonder the associates of two prominent figures in the day-to-day running of Unity Bank, Alhaji Aminu Babangida and Sheriff Shagaya have been running around pouring gigantic pails of water on the rumours of a broken relationship between the two of them. According to the gossip which has spread inside Unity Bank like a wild forest fire, Aminu and Sheriff are at each other’s throats. They allegedly don’t see eye to eye and hardly meet to discuss issues related to the running of the bank.  Aminu, is the chairman of Unity  bank while Sheriff sits among its board of directors.

Naturally, they are expected to have a harmonious relationship to facilitate smooth running of bank operations. Unexpectedly, the two sons of prominent Nigerians are apparently at loggerheads, making senior management at the bank to be on tenterhooks. Â According to insiders who swore to the veracity of the story, the duo used to be fast friends who did a lot of things together. While Aminu is the son of former military president Ibrahim Babangida, Sheriff is the child of

Rone

Yutee Rone: From Nigeria to the World

This country despite its problems, is famous for its exports ranging from crude oil to precious medical, technical and creative expertise. Men and women have risen from humble beginnings in the most populous black country to win global fame for themselves and their nation. Joining their ranks is Yutee Rone whose recent moves have sparked a burgeoning local career into global life. The pleasant lady behind Yutee Rone Fashion is on a whole new level when we talk about fashion and style. She does the unseen and accomplishes things previously unheard of with an ease and regularity that puts many a self-acclaimed genius to shame. For Yutee, one customer is one idea, and a thousand different clients is a thousand different designs. Her designs, even the collections manage to retain a dash of uniqueness for each of her clients. No wonder that in no time at all she has become the most sought after. Many will kill to lay their hands on just one of Yutee’s exclusive collections. She is in high demand, regularly jetting back and forth across world capitals to display the talents which have earned her envy, admiration and worship in equal measure. She has become a card-carrying member of the A-list club. No event is complete without either her or a guest outfitted in one of her dazzling dresses. The only people that feel any disappointment about the exploits of the brilliant beauty are the male admirers who can only admire but not possess. Yutee is happily married to Julius Rone, the chairman of UTM group, a key player in the downstream oil sector. With a blooming career, a loving husband and a happy home, Yutee has all she ever hoped for.

And if fame is the only thing that eludes her still, as suggested by some, it is a lack that will not last much longer. No longer is she a light hidden in the bushels. The sky alia clear and there are no longer clouds for her talents to hide behind. She has become a hot commodity among fashion buffs, especially in the United Kingdom and USA.

Ifeanyi Okowa: A Man of SimplicityÂ

Shagaya

Aminu Babangida

wealthy businesswoman and matriarch of high society Hajia Bola Shagaya. What’s more, Aminu’s late mum Maryam Babangida and Hajia Bola were very close.  Trouble allegedly began the moment Aminu assumed the Unity Bank chairmanship. He was allegedly to have culled some of his relationships and even severed ties with some friends perceived of being of an inferior status. He allegedly started giving

Sheriff the cold shoulder, an action that rubbed the latter off the wrong way. Sheriff was said to have reprimanded his friend, thus setting off a chain of events that has seen both of them at loggerheads ever since.

Friends of the duo however claimed the alleged ruckus is nothing but the figment of some people’s imagination.

They claim Aminu and Sheriff remain good friends and there’s nothing like a cold war between them.

From afar, it is easy to glean two things that Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, the governor of the good people of Delta State is passionate about: welfare of his people and fashion style.  That he has done so well in his first term is like stating the obvious. With many milestone projects to his name, Dr. Okowa is loved by his people, except for his opponents who might have few complaints about his administration.  Dr. Okowa’s journey in politics has not been devoid of oppositions. However, in style, Okowa has no opposition.  Very urbane in his traditional casual wears, he has aged well, with outfits getting better by the year. He’s one of the few governors who support made in Nigeria.

In fact, we learnt one of the top designers in Nigeria, who is also from Delta State makes all his traditional wears.

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Adebayo Adeoye bayoolunla@gmail.com; 08054680651

SOCIETY WATCH

Samsung Electronics MD, David Suh’s Alleged High-handedness If the information reaching Society Watch is anything to go by, then, Nigerians currently in the employ of Samsung Electronics Nigeria, will need urgent intervention by the government or organised labour to save them from further humiliation and harassment in the hands of the leadership of the company. ȱ ȱ ě ȱ ȱ endured so much insults and rejection for too long, the seemingly hapless employees have now ventilated their frustration occasioned by the alleged high-handedness and racist tendencies of the company’s Managing Director, David Suh, a Korean.

It was gathered that since he came on board the company five months ago, staff of the company have allegedly been working under the most inhuman conditions. His insensitivity, it was further alleged, had led to the resignation and sack of many top management staff of the company.

According to the aggrieved workers, a particular department that is dominated by Nigerians has been operating in an epileptic way, as many of the ȱ ȱ ȱ ¢ȱę ȱ

by Suh for no other reasons aside from the fact that they are Nigerians.

Suh, who is said to be so arrogant, is also alleged to treat dealers and distributors of the company with disdain.

Many claimed that while he was the head of the organization’s operations in ǰȱ ȱĚ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ labour rules and regulations to the displeasure of his employers, and even the Labour union.

So Much Ado About Gbajabiamila’s Speakership Ambition Without a doubt, Femi Gbajabiamila is an experienced lawmaker, having been elected into the Lower Chamber of the National Assembly for the fourth time to represent the Lagos, Surulere 1 Federal Constituency on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, APC. Consequently, as the inauguration of the 9th National Assembly draws near, Gbajabiamila has again, begun to make moves to become the speaker of the House of Representatives.

It will be recalled that he made a similar move in 2015, but was defeated by Yakubu Dogara and was left in the cold for a long time before picking up the pieces of his political career.

Again, Gbajabiamila, who claimed to be wiser now, has thrown his hat into the ring for the race for the number four man of the country.

Gbajabiamila

But what many do not understand is the desperation

Billionaire Nedo Okonkwo’s Wife, Ichechi’s Rising Profile

with which he is going about his ambition. For some time, he has been travelling round the country with his entourage as well as loyalists and throwing largese around like a drunken sailor. It is said that no one has ever expended so much energy in the race for that position. Some even claimed that his moves are suspect. ‘’Gbajabiamila is only building a castle in the air. He will be disgraced by some bigger political gladiators, as many don’t want him as the speaker. ‘’His victory at the last polls is something many of his constituents were not happy about. Those who would have challenged him in the APC were arm-twisted, since he still enjoys a good relationship with his godfather, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He has lost the confidence of his people, but he was forced on them by the so-called godfather,’’ a source said.

Beautiful Ichechi, wife of billionaire Nedo Okonkwo, started out as a banker. But she would later venture into business.

Today, this paragon of beauty, who is the CEO of Laundry King and Dream Estate Limited in the highbrow Lekki neighbourhood, has recorded many firsts in her line of business.

Although at the beginning she was afraid but leaving the paid employment for the open market as an entrepreneur has truly become a turning point for her. She is now proud of herself for taking the decision as she is directly responsible for people who she never thought she would have been responsible for.

Being able to defeat her fears by becoming the successful entrepreneur she is today, gives her a feeling of fulfilment.

It was gathered that, even as she strives to blaze the trail in her business, she ensures that her family does not suffer, and this is evident in the exploits of her husband, whose success story once made him grace the cover of Forbes Africa magazine.

The lady is not only beautiful and brainy she is also well-connected and influential.

Ichechi

Suh

Babalaje Adewale Adesina, also known as Wale Saranda, has never hidden the fact that he loves to engage in the celebration of life.

For the Chairman of Western Group, one of such moments that give him endless joy is the celebration of his birthday. He goes the extra mile to ensure he has a successful birthday bash every year.

So, a few days ago when he turned 50, this likeable businessman played host to several people who came to share in his joy on the occasion, as he thanked God profusely for all the good things He had done for him in life.

His inspiring story of grass to grace is, indeed, worthy of

Wale Saranda Celebrates

Wale

celebration. Indeed, his earthly adventure in the last five decades is a study in perseverance and patience. In spite of his humble beginning, he has been able to break the poverty cycle lifting countless others out of penury.

The colourful birthday celebrations, which held at his lovely Ibara GRA residence in Abeokuta, Ogun State, had top dignitaries from all walks of life in attendance.

In spite of the ongoing Ramadan fast, men and women of means still gathered in honour of Wale Saranda, who gave them all a good treat.

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SOCIETY WATCH

Ooni of Ife’s Brother, Prince Adegboyega Set NTDC Boss, To Wed Society Lady, Funmi Onabamiro Folorunsho

Suh

Adegboyega and funmi

Barring any change in plans, the ancient town of Ile Ife in Osun State will soon come alive, as Prince Adegboyega Ogunwusi, an elder brother to the Ooni of Ife, HRH Oba

Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi, will be taking a second wife.

It was gathered that Prince Adegboyega, the Sooko Laekun of Ile-Ife and the Lagos

socialite, Funmi Onabamiro, had enjoyed a sizzling romance for a long time.

They set tongues wagging during the coronation of Ooni Ogunwusi in December 2015, but the two love birds reportedly kept their affair low thereafter.

However, the recent birthday celebrations of Prince Ogunwusi, afforded Funmi the opportunity to make public their affair, as she bombarded social media platforms with pictures from the pre and post birthday celebrations.

Shockingly, even as the rumour of the planned wedding has gone viral, it is being insinuated in some quarters that his three sisters are against the affair.

‘Everyone in the palace supports their relationship and they are all happy about the coming marriage. So, there is no truth in the rumour making the rounds that they are against it,” a source said. Prince Adegboyega, who is a businessman, is a graduate of the University of Ibadan, while Funmi, a graduate of the University of Lagos, is one of Shade Okoya’s best friends.

Funmi was a top staff of Globacom Telecommunication for many years before resigning to set up a private business. She currently runs Praiseville Estate, an event centre, located in Ogudu GRA Phase 2, Lagos.

Kabir Rabiu, Chip Off the Old Block It is clear that handsome and amiable Kabir Rabiu did not go into business by accident. He was born into a family with a history of successful business empire.

As son of billionaire Alhaji Samad Rabiu, the Founder and Chairman of BUA Group, it is not surprising that he himself has won so many laurels as a businessman.

Young Rabiu has injected fresh ideas and innovations into the running of the conglomerate, with interests in mining, agriculture, manufacturing and more.

Desirous of expanding the Group’s frontiers, the unassuming young man recently ventured into the financial technology market with the launch of a

When popular socialite and businesswoman, Martha Najomo and her husband, Capt. Chris Najoma, gave out their beautiful daughter, Christabel, in marriage to her Kenya-born lover, Zacheus, in January, it was tagged the biggest wedding to usher in the New Year.

But many didn’t know that that ȱ ȱ ȱę ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ event.

Society Watch gathered that the second phase of the wedding that took place penultimate Wednesday in Dallas, Texas was another grand one ȱ ȱ ȱ Ĵ ȱ ȱ ȱ forget in a hurry.

In fact, a source revealed that the city stood still for the entire duration of the wedding. It was also gathered that many journeyed from ě ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ the occasion which was another clear manifestation of the fact that the Najomos would do anything to make their children happy. ȱ ǰȱ ȱ ȱę ȱ ȱ ȱ brim, bore lovely décor, which must have also gulped some millions of Naira. It was accentuated with the presence of gaily dressed guests, who walked into the hall with majestic splendour.

Both Capt. Najomo and his wife were said to have given each guest a kingly ȱ ȱ ȱ ę ȱ ȱ good sense of hospitality.

Some of the dignitaries who graced the occasion included a former DIG, Marvel Akpoyibo and wife; Eghosa Edeldouk ; Dr Aisha Achimugu; Mrs Oyin lyamah and daughter; Mr Gabriel Edioghon, Chief Ralph and Chief (Mrs) Bernice Dem;Hon John Idogun; Mr Solo Awhinawhin, Mr and Mrs Uwem Umoh,

payment app called Hollaport.

Very unassuming, he was honoured as one of the Choiseul 100 Africa Laureate in 2017 by the prestigious Institute Choiseul, Paris.

The brilliant man who is also the Group Executive Director of Nigeria’s leading conglomerate, BUA Group, was ranked second, only after Egyptian, Basil El Baz, on the ‘Choiseul 100 Africa’ list of future African Business Leaders by Institut Choiseul – a renowned French economic and political think-tank based in Paris in partnership with a leading publication, Jeune Afrique. The 2017 rankings, which boasts of only 10 Nigerians, has Kabiru Rabiu as the only Nigerian in the top 10.

Kabir

Again, Businesswoman, Martha Najomo Wows At Daughter’s Wedding

Coker Back With Casa 45

Folorunsho Folarin Coker, Director-General, Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation, NTDC), is not a tyro in the night club business.

Fondly called Foley, he moves in elite circles and has been this way for decades. He once operated an upscale nightclub in Lagos, La Casa, which was a fun haven for the nouveau riche and the happening guys in the city.

Not quite long, the Lagosborn tourism boss promised that he would soon re-enact that exciting moment. Interestingly, he has now made good his words.

Society Watch gathered that Foley is back with Casa 45, an upscale, exclusive night club located inside The Wings, the Twin Tower housing Oando Plc headquarters on Ozumba Mbadiwe Avenue, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Of course, in recently, The Wings has played host to some of Lagos exquisite parties, including Cactus On The Roof Lagos, a tropical dress code gig put together by Cuppy, the DJ daughter of billionaire Femi Otedola.

But on Good Friday, April 19, the new ultra-luxurious Casa 45 hosted “Lagos Shutdown”, an amazing and breathtaking convergence of Lagos big boys, hottest ladies, captains of industries and upward corporate players, who had come to enjoy intensive night-life and party experience.

It was indeed a ‘Shutdown’ as Casa 45 provided a night of luxury lifestyle, where most of the patrons got their most pleasurable night life in Lagos.

While Folly is said to be concentrating on his job in Abuja, Casa 45, is being run by veteran nightlife mogul, Ahmed Uwhubetine.

Folarin Coker

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T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R ˾ MAY26, 2019

LOUD WHISPERS

with JOSEPH EDGAR (09095325791)

Akeredolu and ‘Igbo’ Me I don’t know what to believe again o. This grey-bearded daddy was reported to have gone on an exploratory expedition to a faraway country to study the benefits of cultivating Indian hemp. They said he went on that trip with the NDLEA honcho. I shock! My shock was not even about the trip itself but the possibility of NDLEA joining on the trip. How can that be? No be wetin dem use set up the agency to fight be this? Anyways just as I was about to start taking my ‘other room’ enhancing drugs given to me by my friend and sister Chioma Okigbo – dodging bottles, I saw another report refuting the story of NDLEA being on the trip. I relax. But then again, this is a bold step by the governor if it is true that he is really looking into cultivating Indian hemp for its medicinal purposes. Mbok, while still at it, he should also look at cultivating coca

leaves, the ones they use for cocaine, that one too has strong medicinal purposes like making you lose your brain. You see, although I cannot help but agree to the fact that in some climes, the plant has been used for altruistic purposes and even legalized, my worry is when the State Chief Executive will purportedly be championing this thing and be allegedly be travelling himself to go do the research when one small lecturer for Ondo State University can do the work and come and make presentation. You can see that I am using the words ‘allegedly’ and ‘purportedly’ for this story. It is because my Oga Chike Ogeah na him advise me, that anytime I dey write anything about lawyer especially this one wey be SAN that I should be using those words, in case the baba want try himself.

This one can now use the anger of all

the yabis he has been receiving since this thing start to come and attack me o. That is the story of Nigeria when you will be looking for soft targets like Naira Marley to show power. Anyways, my bearded governor don look seriously at the precarious financial situation of his state and the dwindling federal government allocation and decide that he must think outside the box after all no be intellectual?

This is real out of the box thinking I am telling you. Cultivate Indian hemp under strict regulation, supervise it and make sure it gets to the appropriate places and are not misused. I am telling you this is Ben Bruce kind of thinking and the bank that said that one day, cars will run on water. Akereeeeeeee, na you biko. Mbok can we also look at legalizing prostitution for its medicinal purposes? We dey use am release stress and tension from people like you. Kai. No vex.

Akeredolu

TINUBU AND BUHARI – GOOD FELLAS Me I am considering removing myself from the Duke’s Summit. The Duke’s summit is my whatsapp political discussion group. We are about 200 people who discuss politics morning till night. It is not everybody that talks o. It is just a few.

Like Dapo, Peacemaker, Demola and Osa to mention a few. These ones will just be talking like they know what is happening in the country. The thing is beginning to pain me, because Osa will be typing in his other room after being refused for the umpteenth time and be telling us that Buhari and Tinubu are worst enemies.

That Tinubu cannot even enter Buhari Parlour talk less of being close to him. Me I come dey believe o. I start to tell people too, that Tinubu is finished. That the reign of the Jagaban is finished until I come see thier seminude pictures. I shock. Kai, how can they be said not to be buddies if they are running around together seminude?

Which other evidence do we need to prove the closeness of these two. As if that was not enough, I now saw pictures of them breaking their fast and eating together. You see, me I have decided to stop listening to these armchair analysts o. They can put someone inside trouble especially that Osa who always talk like say na him write Nigeria Constitution.

You see in Shomolu, once people have seen each other’s nakedness, that is it o.

Nothing can come between them again not even the 2023 Presidency. The picture of Buhari and Tinubu in this peaceful and brotherly state should even weaken ElRufai who is sitting down there in Kaduna with fire on his backside and really not knowing what to do and is shouting godfatherism must end. Meanwhile the guy is in Saudi Arabia running around the streets and displaying his six pack. Me I am beginning to rethink my position on this godfather o, be like say the man na beetle you no fit crush am.

ZEE WORLD AND NIGERIAN WOMANHOOD I don’t know if it is only me sha. But I do not have control over the remote control

in a house wey na me they pay rent. It is whatever Duchess wants to watch that I watch; irrespective of the fact that I may

GODWIN EMEFIELE – WHERE IS THE PARTY? Oga, it’s not to be wearing long red tie and grey suit and be looking like the judge in that old TV series Icheoku. I am not sure I spell the thing well, but just think of colonial judge then you will picture what I am trying to say. You have emerged for a second term against all odds due to the

Buhari

Tinubu

Emefiele

Miyetti Allah

Toke Makinwa – Sweet Lady This on air personality and beautiful Nigerian is very charismatic o. With millions of followers on social media she is as influential as they come. Her book, I don forget the title sold thousands and she continue to be a leading light for young Nigerians. So when I was looking for someone with the right image to assist in the promotion of my new Play – 3SOME which is coming up this June at the Muson, she came to mind. But they say she will not take my call, she is arrogant and snooty and will not even talk to you.They closed it by saying ‘no beToke, she can be like that”. Me, I no dey gree that kind thing o, so I beg my brother for her number and he sent it. Now I have spoken to so many ‘celebrities’ and you will almost vomit when you come off the phone.The fake accents, the urgent need to pump themselves and all. Well, my people, na so I dial her number o. Why I go fear? Na young girl na. I senior am for age and I be Duke

of Shomolu so why will I fear? Mbok, I dial the thing. She picked o – hello she said. My heart just melt. I feel goose pimples all over my body and I start to speak in an accent I didn’t recognize: ‘My name is Edgar Joseph theatre producer and close friend to Bill Clinton….. I continued, I was the one who pointed Monica Lewinsky to him and I am just calling to say hello to you’. Mbok, she was so calm as she replied, this isToke Makinwa and I almost fainted. All the gra gra disappear. Her voice was like that of a nightingale.The one that pointed IBB towards Maryam. We spoke for another five minutes and she offered to do her very best to support me and even invited me to her Radio Show. Mbok, this is work for MUDI. I must dress well that day o and even comb my hair, you never can tell with these things o abi you no see Oshiomhole wife? Kai, God are you still in heaven?

Toke Makinwa

not be interested in the matter. So to solve the problem, I bought a second TV and mistakenly put it in the other room. So anytime I ask for action, it must be ZEE world or nothing for me. Now ZEE world is a TV channel that is devoted to Indian soap operas. The quality and logic in the dialogue are so pedestrian that the few times I have watched it out of no choice, I have felt like crying from the sheer stupidity that was unfolding before my very eyes. But this is the thing that has held many of our wives and womenfolk captive almost like zombies. I have heard of stories where women go on vacation just to have enough time to indulge. The way football – premiership has captured the minds and soul of some men is the way this Zee world has captured most of our women. In my house na Indian na the new lingua franca. The Duchess is almost speaking fluent Hindi complete with nodding head like lizard the way they do it when they talk. The other day, as we were driving thru Ilupeju, you know that is the headquarters of Indians in Lagos, she could swear she saw one of the actors on the road there buying incense and apples. So now I have learnt that for me to enjoy the benefits of the other room I must be prepared to watch Zee World and even sing one or two songs. Kai, I don die, I don even dey shake my heads like them o. I thank God we are no more having children if not the woman for try herself to name our pikin, Ghandi or Punjab. Who will save our women o?

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MAY 26, 2019 ˾ T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R

LOUD WHISPERS

Ibukun Awosika

Muiz Banire

Bianca Ojukwu –

Etop Ikpe

wonderful job you have done. Me sef I see am and as such we must party. So all these frown you are carrying up and down and be doing serious serious and be giving press briefing will not work jor; where is the party oga? We must wash this thing.

It is a good reward for a man who has worked so hard and some of us have been your fans for sometime now. Baba oya show the way, we cannot remain silent or we will withdraw the thing o. You must wash am abeg. Seriously, for me your exchange controls, intervention in sectors like Agric and now the entertainment sector continue to keep you in my good books. Well done sir and more power to your elbow. I refuse to listen to the other side stories that people are saying. People must talk after all they abused Mandela, na your bald head dem no go yab? All na talk.

The most important thing is that you are performing. Welldone and God bless.

MIYETTI ALLAH’S N100B – GIVE THEM! Mbok give them o. Me I don’t support rubbish if it is true they have asked for this amount for whatever reason, please give them and more o. After all what is N100b?

Is it not common N1b in 100 places? I beg let’s not even argue, na money, he go finish; let’s give them if it will bring peace to the world. Money is nothing, it is there to be spent so give them abeg. You see I don’t want to talk much, but If it is what will end all the clashes between their people and usually harmless farmers bring the cheque, I will sign it. The CBN Governor is my man, I just hail am for write up so he will not mind to honour the cheque. This herdsmen/farmers’ crises have predated my ability to write the English language.

It has led to major violence leading to the loss of thousands of human lives and still going on. So if the egg heads have put their big heads together and have come up with this wise idea of getting the funds to amongst others build mini ranches all over the place, mbok for Christ’s sake give them the damn money. We should not waste one more life before we realize that this could lead to the end of Nigeria. I cannot shout it louder o, I wish I had a giant microphone to shout into. GIVE THEM abeg so that we can sleep. I can be a coward for this kind thing, but what other options do we have?

Tell me.

IBUKUN AWOSIKA – DON’TVEX Mbok I have been meaning to write this for sometime now and anytime I tried to do it, something will just distract me.

I know madam has been buying this paper every Sunday rushing to this page to see if I have hailed or jabbed her and to her disappointment she will not see her face. Please don’t vex, na Lagos traffic.

Anyways, I really want to say a big shout out to you. You have been a wonderful inspiration to me making me to want to be a woman. I tell you if all Nigerian women had this kind of clarity of thought then half of our problems would be solved.

I watched your lecture to incoming governors and was just shouting, ‘tell them, tell them’. I know most of them did not

listen as they were already plotting how they will decimate their opponents, fly to Timbuktu to savor the joys of Mari Juana amongst other such pedestrian things.

At least you said what needed to be said and you said it with so much panache and class. Mbok, where did you learn to speak so well? As I was listening it was as if you were eating Okro soup. The thing was flowing and the deliberateness of your delivery made me hungry. You are intelligent o and very beautiful no wonder you are so successful. I dey see you for church before o. We used to attend the same Fountain of Life Church in Ilupeju before I fell on the way side and may not get the Rapture. That is talk for another day.

Welldone madam. I really do appreciate that talk to the governors that day. It was instructive and bold, if only they listened.

If only. Kai, mbok leave me to cry. Nigeria Kai.

MUIZ BANIRE – WHO IS YOUR FATHER? That is the question one Wole Somborri just asked erudite legal giant and legal something of APC. It’s a wonder they have not sacked him yet or have they?

You see, our penchant for deviating in the face of strong logical barrage is legendary.

The other day El- Rufai came down and talked about mobilizing 4 million people who did not vote against godfatherism in Lagos and instead of us to join issues with him, we were asking if he uses water or tissue after going to the toilet. The thing used to annoy me until I realized that it is also a strategy. When you cannot meet facts with facts you look for diversionary tactics to play. So Muiz joins the debate on godfatherism like it has been his position for sometime now and they are asking about his paternity. I read the article from Wole something and it was so watery and almost made me cry. This was a full-grown Nigerian man who was playing politics at the highest regional level and who wanted some kind of political appointment with which he would touch millions of lives and see the kind of warped irredentist logic he was spewing in a vain attempt at gloating towards his godfathers. He only succeeded in throwing up his shallowness by ending an otherwise boring treatise by asking for the paternity of Mr. Banire. Let me even tell all these APC youth leaders and diehard supporters of the status quo in Lagos the home truth. The opponents have seen the 4million people that did not vote, they have seen the very narrow margins that Sanwo Olu won the election. They are working, strategizing and seeing how they will upturn the monarchy using these disinterested voters and instead of my people to be working also, they are busy calling Banire a bastard and El Rufai a short man. God will keep all of us alive. Hungry is catching me. Where is this girl?

with my father herding me towards Baba Yekini to go learn mechanic( Mbok, get ready for my memoirs to mark my 50th birthday this July and you will see gist, I tell you) so you can imagine my sadness when the great man himself Dim Odumegwu Emeka Ojukwu snatched her from me. That day I cried. I cried with no consolation. My Bianca could not wait for me to at least pass WAEC so that I can have a fighting chance.

She went and agreed for this short man with plenty bear bear because the man can speak Queens English and knew how to write poem. I almost fainted from the loss of water from my skinny body. The tears refused to stop and I could only tell one person, our big Ibibio housemaid who put my head on her soft bosom in consolation. I thank God I have gotten over her even though once in a while I think of what could have been. So when I saw the report that she had been removed from her Party’s Board of Trustees all the feelings came rushing back. So I am sending a strong letter of protest to Governor Obiano to rethink this position or risk destroying almost irretrievably diplomatic relations between Shomolu and Nnewi. I don’t speak too much as I am a man of action. I have spoken sha, let the wise listen and act. Nobody should try my resolve. Kai am I purging?

ETOPIKPE ANDCARS45 Well in the course of pushing my new Play, 3some I met this young man. He is tall o and very good looking. He is the main man at Cars 45. The meeting was just 5 minutes and it made a huge impression. The revolution in used car sales that he is pushing is phenomenal. I remember when I wanted to sell my old BMW that I bought from Ayo Braimah. I no know wetin Ayo sell for me o. The car was just over heating and giving me problems. My mama say that it was because I used it to carry my father in law first before her that he must have put ‘Yoruba juju’ and that was why the radiator was always exploding. So I decided to take it to Western Avenue to sell. The man took it, collected money from me and promptly started using the car for kabu kabu. It was one day I saw him at Ojodu Berger carrying Ibadan passengers that made me realize that I had fallen mugu. So I took my car back and dashed my father in law to kuku use the juju and finish the car. Today all that is gone with the past. If you want sell your ca, Etop and him people will just do it in 45minutes. This is the real juju as I saw it happen with my very two eyes. Well, this man is creating jobs, redistributing wealth and making opportunities almost out of nothing.

Well-done bro and let’s don’t call it tribalism if I dare say that we are from the same ‘side’. We no plenty so we must hold each other. Great guy.

laundering. He was arraigned and remanded till a later date. Well veteran musician, Daddy Showkey has now come out on social media with all sorts of profanity laced with illiterate-like submissions on how EFCC has not gone to those who are bombing Nigeria and stealing ‘our money’. Na this kind talk even put the boy in the mess he is today.

People really do not understand the gravity of some of these issues and because they have access they jump in and begin talking this kind of gibberish. My brother Naira or wetin be your name, please get very good lawyers, maintain your focus and address the charges. All these emotional talks are just that - nothing. It will not stand in court. Ignore Daddy Showkey and the millions who are trying to do a Mandela for you by shouting free Naira. You are not a freedom fighter or being held on civil charges. You are facing very grave criminal charges and must be taken with the seriousness they deserve. God be with you my son during this trying time.

BIANCA OJUKWU – LONG TIME NO SEE Kai, this woman was beautiful. Tall, fair and sweet. I had a major crush on her when she won that Ben Bruce competition and wanted to marry her even though I had just failed Form Four for the third time

NAIRAMARLEY–IGNOREDADDYSHOWKEY I know most of my readers do not know how to operate a smart phone talkless of doing social media – dodging bottles, kai.

Naira Marley is a young musician who was arrested by the EFCC and charged to court for numerous offences including money

SATIRE – LIFE IS SWEET Some people don’t understand satire and they will be vexing others who understand it and will be laughing anytime I yab them for this page. You see satire is sweet as it affords me the opportunity to yab people and hide behind it and say ‘na satire abeg’. Life is sweet. That is how during the week, I got a call from an irate colleague that I had insulted the MD of a huge bank because I said he was dancing like someone that had diarrhea. Mbok na satire I replied. The woman no gree o. She abuse me and call me names.

I wonder, what is her own o? They are not related but as she come carry this matter I begin to fear. So I kept on saying na satire. By the time I said go and read George Orwell’s Animal Farm or JK Randles- Godfather never sleeps, she don dey abuse my grandfather calling him impotent. Mbok, I no blame am o na, the MD wey no understand satire. Because if he understands satire, he will not complain the small complain wey come lead to this assault on my manhood. Yes she call me 40 minute man. Let me state it, hear very clearly, that I am not a 40minute man.

I am a one-hour man. It’s just that I cannot show you people evidence. I am a one-hour man o. So my people, this verbal assault come dey make me think say make I retire from this satire work? After all I never get ministerial appointment or get house for Banana Island. I am still thinking but before I rest my pen, let me say something very clearly here. This page is for those who have a sense of humor and who enjoy jabs. It is not for the sensitive and thin skinned. And the thing that pains me the most is when you yab others they will be the one that will laugh the most but when you yab them they will shout blue murder. What is wrong if I say you dance like person wey get diarrhea? Is that more than all the names I have called Tinubu in this my life.

That one that can increase my land use charge and render me homeless. Mbok, na satire no vex. No be me kill Jesus.

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T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R Ëž AY 26,2019

POLITY

Okowa’s Four Years on the Saddle Okowa is an amazing team player who knows how to broker peace and settle disputes. With the reputation and cordial relationship he has built across the state over time, it was easy for him to achieve peace which has helped in no small measure to accelerate socio economic and infrastructural development in the State

Jonathan Onwuka

I

t is clearly obvious that the Delta Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, came prepared for the job of governance. It has been argued in several quarters that the governor had his plans worked out long before he took up the mantle of leadership of Delta State, going by the achievements recorded in the first four years of his administration.

2019 elections have come and gone. Okowa has been re-elected to govern Delta State for another four years. The mandate was no fluke given the superlative performance he posted in the last for years It is pertinent to recall that Okowa came on board as governor of Delta State in 2015, at a time when the financial situation of Nigeria was in a very precarious state, when it was nearly difficult to even meet up with something as basic as payment of workers’ salaries. The debt profile inherited by the Okowa administration was frightening. The State was worse hit with Militant activities and oil prices as well as production output was at an all time low. The situation was indeed frightening. The circumstances would not favour a governor to perform well in the least and all was expecting the obvious excuses to be made by the new governor but to the amazement of Deltans, Okowa moved on with the dexterity of an experienced administrator. He went on to assemble his team, unveiled his master plan, his five point agenda and went to work.

His five point agenda was an unbeatable master plan. His laser blazing focus saw that 95% of his election promises were delivered as at January 2019.

The master plan was christened “SMART� Agenda, meaning 1 Strategic wealth creation projects and provision of jobs for all Deltans.

2 Meaningful Peace Building Platforms aimed at political and social harmony.

3 Agricultural Reforms and Accelerated Industrialization.

4 Relevant Health and Education Policies.

5 Transformed Environment through Urban Renewal.

Job creation which was delivered to Deltans through Okowa the establishment of the Delta State Job Creation Office is indisputably one of the major achievements of the Okowa led government in the last four years.

Consequent upon the initiatives of the Job Creation office, thousands of Delta youths have not only been gainfully employed, but have gone ahead to become employers of labour. The multiplier effect of this rare economic policy will definitely outlive Okowa’s government and position Delta in the near future as the nation’s economic hub; it would indeed, give her a prominent place in the world’s economic development index. As expected, the adoption of the State’s job creation template by the World Bank in 2018, for other states in the country to emulate is an attestation about the success of the initiative.

Thousands of youths across the three senatorial districts have been trained to acquire skills in various trades and vocations, and empowered with starter packs in the last four years. Many of them today have become employers of labour.

That initiative has recorded more than 85% success in strategically creating wealth through the provision of these jobs.

Okowa is an amazing team player who knows how to broker peace and settle disputes. With the reputation and cordial relationship he has built across the state over time, it was easy for him to achieve peace which has helped in no small measure to accelerate socio economic and infrastructural development in the State. The few uprisings that were heard of at different locations within the State were quickly dealt with. For instance, the Ogbe Ijaw/Aladja boundary dispute which was becoming quite challenging was eventually resolved. It can safely be asserted that Okowa’s peace building initiative is clearly responsible for the social, political and economic harmony which the state is enjoying today.

The PPSP (Production and Processing Support Program ) is another pacesetting agricultural support programme of the Okowa led government. The Delta State government through the program gave massive support to farmers in the state, by giving out loans, farm machineries, expert support and training. The commendable supports have had tremendous positive effects and outcome in the production capacity of Delta farmers’ in the last four years. Fish farmers across the state have received support, ranging from fish fingerlings, feeds and expert training amongst other assistance.

Gov. Okowa’s Midas touch also extend to the Small, Medium Enterprise sector, where the DMSMDA ( Delta State Micro, Small And Medium . Development Agency), an agency that was charged with the provision of loans and technical support to small businesses in Delta State. The governor has left no stone unturned in giving a new lease of life to the various sectors of prosperity in Delta State.

Okowa brought a whole lot of relevant experience into governance no doubt, and that has positively impacted on the health sector in the state.

Governor Okowa, who was at a time, the State Commissioner for Health and later Chairman, Senate Committee on Health in the 7th Assembly has equally done excellently well in the area of health care provision to the citizens of the state. In the last four years the administration has committed enormous resources to ensure that Deltans have access to basic health care to better their lives. Relevant health policies have been initiated and implemented. In order to fulfil his promise to provide affordable and accessible health care to all Deltans, Gov Okowa made available about 1billion naira to boost the State Contributory Health Insurance Scheme, this is in furtherance of the governor’s promise to provide affordable and qualitative healthcare services to people. The scheme which took effect in 2016 now has over 200,000 enrollees.

It should be put on record that about 65 secondary healthcare centres are fully operational to facilitate the successful implementation of the scheme, while about 100 primary healthcare centres have also been designated for the scheme.

In addition to this, the free maternal and free under five healthcare programmes that were initiated by the previous administration is still being sustained through the Delta State Contributory Healthcare Commission.

Okowa has earned a name for himself in infrastructure development particularly in the area of road construction.

Today, he is fondly called the “Roadmaster� by his beloved Deltans. Delta State has experienced an unprecedented transformation in the road sector . As at October 2018, the Okowa led government had awarded about 317 roads projects, comprising 1,000km, and 344 km of drains valued at about #243bn. Out of these, 135 projects have been completed covering 405km of roads and 159 km of drainage. And all these are aside the rehabilitation of existing but dilapidated roads.

The interesting thing about the Governor’s efforts in road construction is that he had extended network of roads to the riverine areas and the creek in the state; these are places that were usually considered to be very difficult terrains.

Chief among these roads are the main Axial Road and Okerenkoko township Roads in Warri South West local government area. There is also the asphalt overlay of the 19.5 km Obutobu1-Obutobu11-Sokebolou-Yokori Road also in Warri South West local government area.

Even the government’s fiercest critics have joined in acknowledging and applauding the success so far recorded in road construction across the State.

More of these roads worthy of mention are the 10.8km Okpere-Umolo-Ovwodokpor-Kiagbodo road in Ughelli South and Burutu local government areas Jeddo-Ughaton road in Okpe Local government area, and the Access road

to Eagle Heights university.

Again, the Oteri township road in Ughelli North and Okpe Olomo/Otor-Orere Olumo road in Ughelli South.

There are also the expansion and rehabilitation of sections of Oghara junction to Otafe road in Ethiope West LGA Oghara, Access road to Jesse town, Access road Ughowangue New Layout, construction of Okuomowa road to Osubi to link Efekpo Lane, the construction of Ekete main road off DSC Expressway, the rehabilitation of Ekreravwe/Orhoakpor/ Isiokolo road in Ethiope East, Abraka Township Road phase 1 and the reconstruction of the 8.5km Ughelli-AfiesereOhioma road in Ughelli North.

It would go down in the history of Asaba as the state capital that no governor, since the creation of the state, has been more focused towards her development as Okowa has done. Prior to Okowa’s government, Asaba was a flood- riddled city. Okowa took the bull by the horn in embarking on the construction of the storm drainage which when competed, would rid the state capital of the perennial dreaded flood. Asaba now wears the look of the state capital befitting of a state like Delta. Roads like the Cable Point dual carriage way has gone a long way to enhance the status of Asaba as a state capital.

Okowa pulled a big one when he rehabilitated the long abandoned Asaba Stadium, christened, Stephen Keshi Stadium, making it a state-of-the-art sports facility. With the completion of the magnificent edifice, Delta State was catapulted to international reckoning as it began hosting several international sporting events. The 23,000 sitting capacity stadium which enjoys the approval of FIFA for its matches has gone ahead to host major international meets like the African Senior Athletics Championship which held between August 1st to 5th 2018. The AFCON qualifier match against Seychelles, the Flying Eagles vs Libya intermediate national team, the finals of the AITEO Cup between Kano Pillars and Enugu Rangers, the FA Cup finals between Lobi Stars and Enugu Rangers etc.

Gov Okowa also ensured that the Asaba International Airport was given its pride of place. He took the bull by the horn and tackled the seemingly unsurmountable challenges bedeviling the airport. Today, the airport is considered one of the best in the country.

Needless to say, Okowa’s last four years has brought massive positive changes to Delta State in all sectors and facets. Okowa has simply redefined political leadership as it were. Delta State is on the right path and it is no surprise that Deltans massively voted him for another four years. Come 29th of May 2019, the second part of his eight year term will commence. Deltans look forward to more radiant and sterling performance from the “Road master,� for if he can perform against the odds then, he can do even better now.

T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R Ëž AY 26,2019

69

POLITY

Ugwuanyi’s 2nd Term: Building on Laid Foundation Louis Amoke

O

n May 29, the re-elected Governor of Enugu State, His Excellency, Rt. Hon Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, to the glory of God, will be sworn-in for a second term alongside his deputy, Hon. Mrs. Cecilia Ezeilo.

The epoch-making event, which renews the governor’s mandate to continue with his sound vision for the state and consolidate on the solid foundation laid by his peopleoriented administration in the last four years, calls for celebration and thanksgiving to God for His goodness in Enugu State.

Gov. Ugwuanyi, whose journey to the Lion Building formally commenced in 2014, following his unanimous endorsement as the consensus candidate of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), stemming from his cherished antecedents, leadership qualities, popularity and wide acceptance, has constantly remained grateful to God for His mercy and kindness and also to the good people of the state for their show of love, solidarity and support. Gov. Ugwuanyi, who later won the 2015 governorship election in Enugu State with a landslide, became the most popular political leader in the history of the state.

Consequently, he was sworn in as the third Executive Governor of Enugu State on May 29, 2015, when the nation’s economy was in recession and confronted with other economic challenges occasioned by the drastic drop in the crude oil prices in the international market. These economic adversities affected allocations to states from the federation account.

More worrisome was that Enugu State was among the worst hit, considering its position as third from the bottom of the revenue allocation chart and predominantly a civil service state with high expectations for rapid socio-economic expansion in view of its enviable Ugwuanyi status as the historical capital of the Eastern Region, old Anambra State, old Enugu State and capital of the present has remained committed to the principles of transparency, accountability, due process and prudent management of Enugu State. the state’s lean resources.

The governor was also faced with sundry issues of The governor, therefore, has through his administrainherited debt profile and other huge wage bills to be serviced as well as management of the political space in the state, tion’s adherence to fiscal discipline, peace and grassroots development initiatives successfully delivered democracy considering that his party, the PDP, lost power at the national dividends to the doorsteps of the people of Enugu State. level after 16 years. All these challenges were a source of Gov. Ugwuanyi has through his humble disposition, worry, which required drastic approach and a clear-cut simplicity, candour, good works and uncommon leaderintervention to move the state forward. ship style of inclusive governance and open-door policy Gov. Ugwuanyi being a God-fearing leader, team player, delivered the message of hope and rekindled the confibridge builder, peace-maker, finance management expert, dence of the people in participatory democracy. consummate politician and visionary leader remained He has bound up the broken hearted with a wind of undaunted and committed to the speedy actualization of peace that has united everybody in the state, especially his administration’s well-thought-out programmes for the the political leaders irrespective of class, religion, sociopeople of the state, as contained in its four-point agenda. economic and political background. This cherished The governor’s antecedents as a three-term member of ambience of peace and unity has remained the pillar of his the House of Representatives and two-term Chairman of the administration’s success story and one of the major reasons House Committee on Marine Transport as well as former Enugu State is in the mood of celebration today.

Chief Executive Officer of Premier Brokers Limited - a prime The people’s governor has through his administration’s insurance broking firm in the South East geo-political, zone rural development policy, one-community-one-project owned by the five states of the zone and African Continental initiative and a great deal of passion for the wellbeing of Bank (ACB) - also strengthened his courage to successfully the masses, remembered the long-neglected communities guide the state through the economic crunch.

For instance, Gov. Ugwuanyi in his 2015 inaugural address in the state in line with his firm belief that the greatest objective of government is to alleviate the suffering of the stated that the economic melt-down then was “another great people. His government has also made a veritable mark in opportunity for Enugu State and indeed Nigeria to look all other sectors of development, which have impacted the inwards and harness those potentials which free oil money has blinded us from exploiting�, resting his faith in God’s miracle of five loaves and two fish.

Besides the nation’s economic challenges, the governor expressed gratitude to God for the grace to “take up the gauntlet of the struggle for the emancipation of the Wawa man from where our heroes past stopped�, saying: “It can only be God, for it is He who raises the poor from the ash heap and makes him to inherit a throne of honour�.

According to him, “He (God) has anointed me for a mission-to bring good news, message of continued hope, peace and development to our people; to bind up the broken hearted; to proclaim liberty to every Wawa man caught in the prison of poverty and under-development. And these, I owe you and my God to fulfill�.

In actualizing these inspirational visions, Gov. Ugwuanyi recommitted himself to his four-point agenda to take Enugu State to the next level and promised that his administration will “deploy government services to create fair and equal opportunity for every willing citizen to make a living and create wealth, educate our children, and enjoy life in a peaceful and secure environment�.

He added that the government “will drive with full force investment promotion, agricultural sector renewal, provision of critical infrastructure, human capital development and skills acquisition� stressing that “Enugu State under us will pay a special attention to rural development because majority of our people live in the rural areas�.

Four years down the line, one is glad to state with great honour that Gov. Ugwuanyi through his new ethos of leadership, anchored on peace and good governance, has religiously and effectively delivered on these promises. He

It is therefore, expected of the people of Enugu State to continue to pray for the governor and give him the usual maximum support and cooperation to take the state to greater heights in line with the dreams of the founding fathers for Enugu State is truly in hands of God

lives of the people positively.

While workers’ salaries and pensions are paid regularly with or without receipt of statutory allocations from the federation account - even at the time 27 states could not pay - the 13th month salary was also extended to them as Christmas bonus.

On road construction and rehabilitation, the Ugwuanyi administration has covered about 400 kilometres, spread across the state with signature projects such as the remodeled ancient, historic and undulating Milliken Hill road - a tourist attraction and state’s natural roller coaster; the Opi-Nsukka dual carriageway; the Ebonyi River Bridge, Ikem; the Udenu Ring road; Iva Valley road, Enugu. Others include the Nkalagu-Eha Amufu road, neglected for over 35 years and the Amurri road in Nkanu West Local Government Area constructed for a hitherto neglected community that has not experienced any form of government development on its land in the past 100 years, etc. The state government’s infrastructural revolution has been unprecedented and indeed recorded a huge success in expanding development to the frontiers of the rural areas.

Recently, Enugu State was rated by the World Bank Group as the second most advanced state in Nigeria towards the frontier of global good practices with regards to Ease of Doing Business. Through the impressive increase in the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) profile, as a result of far reaching reforms introduced in the sector by the governor, Enugu State has remained on top as one of the few states in the country that can survive without allocations from the federation account, among other outstanding ratings.

Through the monthly traders’ empowerment scheme, 3,600 genuine traders of the state have so far been empowered with the sum of N50,000 each, to grow their various businesses. The state government also empowered 750 youths in skills acquisition under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) programme.

Apart from recruitment of over 4000 primary and secondary schools teachers, with additional 1,500 for primary education ongoing, Ugwuanyi’s administration has constructed and renovated over 589 primary and secondary school blocks in the state and equally procured learning tools to improve the standard of learning. Recently, the State Executive Council (EXCO) approved the award of contracts for construction and renovation of additional 208 school blocks.

State owned higher institutions, namely, the foremost Institute of Management and Technology (IMT), Enugu, the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT); the Enugu State College of Education Technical (ESCET); and the Enugu State Polytechnic, Iwollo, among others, have also been benefitting from the government’s educational transformation programmes.

The government also paid 54 percent equity contribution for 100 lucky civil servants who won the 100 units one bedroom apartments at Elim Estate, Enugu through open lottery.

In the health sector, besides completion of the state-ofthe-art Enugu State Medical Diagnostic Centre, as promised in the inaugural address, Ugwuanyi’s administration has strengthened the state’s primary healthcare programmes to render better medical services to the people especially in the rural areas, through various interventions and integration of faith-based rural health facilities into the Free Maternal and Child Health Programme. The government has constructed and renovated district hospitals and health centres in the state, especially in the rural areas under the primary healthcare programme, such as the Poly Clinic, Asata, Enugu and Udi District Hospital, among others.

The Judiciary has also felt the positive impact of Ugwuanyi’s administration as the construction of 14 new court buildings and open registries in the judicial divisions and magisterial districts across the state and state’s Customary Court of Appeal headquarters are nearing completion.

These interventions were once described by the state’s Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Ngozi Emehelu as “unprecedented infrastructural development that has not been witnessed in the entire South East� and “the largest single intervention in infrastructural development in the Judiciary of Enugu State for over 20 years�.

Interestingly, 56 years after three fire service stations were built in Enugu State, then Eastern Region, Gov. Ugwuanyi’s administration constructed five new ultra-modern fire service stations strategically located in the three senatorial districts for the safety and wellbeing of the people, among other litany of achievements too numerous to mention.

In view of this outstanding performance by the administration of Gov. Ugwuanyi, which is a tip of the iceberg of the achievements recorded so far, the good news about the second term inauguration is that the governor, through the details of the 2019 budget and his post-election actions has displayed a renewed vigor and firm commitment to continue and consolidate on the solid foundation laid in the last four years.

It is therefore, expected of the people of Enugu State to continue to pray for the governor and give him the usual maximum support and cooperation to take the state to greater heights in line with the dreams of the founding fathers for Enugu State is truly in hands of God. ––Amoke writes from Enugu

ARTS & REVIEW A

PUBLICATION

26.05.2019

BREATHING A NEW LIFE INTO THE LITERARY SCENE The 2018 Nigeria Literature Prize winner Soji Cole

EDITOR OKECHUKWU UWAEZUOKE/ okechukwu.uwaezuoke@thisdaylive.com

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T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R Ëž MAY 26,2019

ARTS & REVIEW\\ LITERARY PRIZE

FOR NLNG, IT’S 15 YEARS OF A PRIZED INTERVENTION The local literary scene stirs to life, thanks to the annual Nigeria Literature Prize, endowed by the Nigeria LNG which was incorporated 30 years ago. Having thrice increased its cash value, the annual prize has kept the creative mills turning. Okechukwu Uwaezuoke reports

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hings started to look up for the local literati in 2004. For that was the year the Nigeria Prize for Literature stomped into the scene, promising a winner-takes-all cash prize worth $20,000. Such a cash prize for literary endeavours was hitherto unheard of in this talent-glutted scene. Literary hopefuls swarmed around this prospect, intent on getting their slice of this largesse.

Before then, the Association of Nigerian Authors – more popularly known by its acronym ANA – had been plodding on with its assortment of sponsored modestly-valued annual category prizes and had that year awarded the following eight prizes: ANA/ Atiku Abubakar Prize for Children Literature, ANA/NDDC Drama Prize (In honour of J. P. Clark), ANA/NDDC Prize (In honour of Gabriel Okara), ANA/NDDC Prose Prize (In memory of Ken Saro-Wiwa), ANA/Spectrum Prize, ANA/Cadbury Prize, ANA/NDDC Flora Nwapa Prize for Women Writing and ANA Literary Journalist, 2004.

Apparently because the ANA literary prizes award categories – albeit known for its cash prizes that could go as low as N50,000 and manage to go as high as $2,500 – were open to both young and old Nigerian writers at home and abroad, the Nigeria LNG -endowed Nigeria Prize for Literature stirred the hornet’s nest of controversy when it restricted its $20,000 prize to locally-based Nigerian writers.

Consequently, poisonous arrow darts of criticism from the vociferous Nigerian writers in the diaspora whizzed furiously at the prize. “Ghetto Prize,� some of these writers even derisively called it.

Undaunted, the Nigeria LNG – then in its 15th year of existence – had stuck to its guns. The locally-based Nigerian writers, it had reasoned, were making strenuous efforts to produce creative masterpieces and hence deserved to be reasonably encouraged.

No sooner had the organisers shrugged off the criticisms than they courted further controversies through the non-award of the prize in its inaugural year. The prize – designed to annually rotate among the four literary genres of prose fiction, poetry, drama and children's literature – found none of the three shortlisted entries worthy of it. That this bruised the writers’ ego was evident in the fact some of the scoffers even went further to allege that the Nigeria LNG had no plans to award the prize in the first place.

The 2011 prize winner Adeleke Adeyemi

Yet, award the prize, the Nigeria LNG did the following year. This was even if it meant two winners sharing the much-coveted $20,000. That year, the now-deceased Gabriel Okara with his poetry collection The Dreamer: His Vision shared the booty with his acolyte, the late Ezenwa Ohaeto, whose entry was Chants of Minstrel.

The first time the prize would be won by one person turned out to be in 2006, two years after it was inaugurated. This was when Ahmed Yerima with his play Hard Ground was adjudged the overall winner. By this time, the cash value had been upped to $30,000. This gesture seemed to have finally laid the ghost of the no-winner to rest, for Yerima did not have to share the prize with anyone.

Thus, the prize gradually began to earn the trust of the local literati. Not even the sharing again of the prize in 2007 – this time between the two female literary titans Mabel Segun for her Readers' Theatre: Twelve Plays for Young People and Akachi Adimora-Ezeigbo for My Cousin Sammy – could shake the literati’s confidence. There was no doubt:

the literary prize had come to stay.

This fact was corroborated in 2008, when the cash value of the prize was upped again to $50,000 as the award rotation returned once more to prose fiction. Just like in 2006, the prize produced yet again an overall winner: Kaine Agary, whose entry Yellow Yellow was adjudged the best.

Even so, the restive tongues of the cynics would find other reasons to wag in 2009.

This was the year that the painful memories of the no-winner year, 2004, were dredged up. None of the arguably Nigeria’s best poets, who had stepped forward for the prize, were deemed worthy of it.

This naturally hurt the prize’s approval rating among the literati but not enough to raise doubts about its integrity.

But, thanks to a deft move by the organisers, the prize began to earn the trust of the Nigerian writers in the diaspora, to whom the door was open for the first time

in 2010. Thus, the renowned Nigerian playwright in the diaspora, Esiaba Irobi, became the prize’s first-ever posthumous winner with his play, The Cemetery Road.

Then, the following year, when the spotlight shifted to children's literature, the prize’s value was increased to its present value of $100,000.

That year, Adeleke Adeyemi – a. k. a. Mai Nasara – won the prize with his entry, The Missing Clock.

The diaspora writers consolidated their gains in 2012 when Belgium-based Chika Unigwe emerged the overall winner with her entry On Black Sisters’ Street. Still, after two winners – Tade Ipadeola in 2013 for his poetry collection, The Sahara Testaments, and Sam Ukala for his play, The Iredi War – the no-winner spectre returned in 2015 when it was the turn of the children's literature genre. This was because none of the entries were deemed suitable for children and were adjudged below standard. “Unfortunately, the entries this year fall short of this expectation as each book was found to manifest incompetence in the use of language.

Many of them showed very little or no evidence of good editing...Hence, there will be no winner this year,� the Prize Advisory Board Chairman, Emeritus Professor Ayo Banjo, had announced before a coterie of stakeholders at the Lagos Sheraton Hotel in Ikeja that year.

Somehow, the prize had moved into its fourth cycle without controversies so far. Winners like Abubakar Adam Ibrahim in 2016, the late Ikeogu Oke in 2017 and Soji Cole in 2018 have emerged on the heels of each other and there are no reasons not to eagerly await a winner for this year’s prize for children’s literature.

The literary prize, which is currently the biggest in Africa and among the world’s most valued, has definitely turned around the values of the Nigerian literary scene.

Not only has the prize been complemented by the N1 million Literary Criticism Prize, its winners have earned their place in Nigeria’s literary hall of fame. Reading tours, organised especially for recent winners, have helped engrave their names in the collective consciousness.

Also, it is likely that the Nigeria Literature Prize, which is on currently its 15th year, had influenced the annual 9mobile Prize for Literature (formerly known as the Etisalat Prize for Literature), which was inaugurated in 2013 as a pan-African prize celebrating first-time African writers of published fiction books.

There is, therefore, no doubt about the fact that the Nigeria LNG’s intervention in the literary scene has breathed new life into a hitherto struggling industry. Every year, publishers jostle to position their authors for the prize.

LITERARY PRIZE

TWO NIGERIANS MAKE THE 2019 CAINE PRIZE SHORTLIST

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woNigeriansfeaturedinthe2019 CainePrizeforAfricanWritingshortlist, whichwasannouncedbytheorganisers onMonday. ThetwoNigerians–Lesley NnekaArimahandTochukwuEmmanuelOkafor–areinthegoodcompanyofother authorsfromEthiopia,KenyaandCameroon.

Accordingtothechairofthejudgesforthisyear, KenyanauthorDrPeterKimani,thewritersinthe shortlist“carryonwiththattradition,notjustin theirinventivenessinimaginingtheworld,butalso intacklingtheordinaryinanextraordinarymanner, inawide-rangeofissues:genderandgeneration; homeandexile;sexualityandreligion;loveand hate;happinessandheartbreak.�

Theauthoroftheaward-winningnovel,Danceof theJakaranda,hadearlierdescribedthisyearas“a specialyearfortheCainePrizeforAfricanWriting, asitmarksits20thanniversary�,adding:“It’sa milestonethataffordsforbothareflectiononthe past,andaprojectionintothefuture.�

Besidesthewinner,whocartsawaytheÂŁ10,000 prize,eachshortlistedwriterwillalsoreceiveÂŁ500.

Also,theshortlistedstorieswillbeprintedbyNew Internationalistinaspecialpublicationtomarkthe20th CainePrizeawarddinner,andthroughco-publishersin 16Africancountrieswhoreceiveaprint-readyPDFfree ofcharge.

ThefullshortlistforthePrizeasannouncedon Mondaywasfollows: Ëž Ă?Ă?Ă–Ă?ĂŁ Ă˜Ă?Ă•Ă‹ ĂœĂ“Ă—Ă‹Ă’ Ě™ Ă“Ă‘Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă‹Ěš Ă?Ă™Ăœ ËŠ Ă•Ă“Ă˜Ă˜Ă?ĂŽËŞËœ publishedinMcSweeney’sQuarterlyConcern,Issue53 ̙ͺ͸͚΀̚˛ Ëž Ă?ĂœĂ™Ă˜ Ă‹ĂŽĂ?ĂœĂ™ Ě™ ÞÒÓÙÚÓË̚ Ă?Ă™Ăœ ËŠ Ă’Ă? Ă‹Ă–Ă–ËŞËœ ĂšĂ&#x;ĂŒĂ–Ă“Ă?Ă’Ă?ĂŽ Ă“Ă˜ Ă? ĂĄĂ?Ă?Ă˜Ă?ĂŁËŞĂ? Ă&#x;Ă‹ĂœĂžĂ?ĂœĂ–ĂŁ Ă™Ă˜Ă?Ă?ĂœĂ˜Ëœ Ă?Ă?Ă&#x;Ă? ͽͺ ̙ͺ͸͚΀̚˛ Ëž Ă’Ă?ĂœĂœĂ“Ă? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽĂ“Ă? Ě™ Ă?Ă˜ĂŁĂ‹Ěš Ă?Ă™Ăœ ËŠ Ă?ĂĄ ĂŁ Ă™Ă&#x;ĂžĂ’ËŞËœ ĂšĂ&#x;ĂŒĂ–Ă“Ă?Ă’Ă?ĂŽ Ă“Ă˜

ĂŽĂ?Ă˜ĂžĂ“ĂžĂŁË? Ă?ĂĄ Ă’Ă™ĂœĂž Ă“Ă?ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜ ĂœĂ™Ă— Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă‹ ̙ͺ͸͚΀̚˛ Ëž Ă‘ĂĄĂ‹Ă’Ě‹ ĂŒĂ™ Ă‹Ă˜Ă‹ Ă•ĂĄĂ?ÞÓ Ě™ Ă‹Ă—Ă?ĂœĂ™Ă™Ă˜Ěš Ă?Ă™Ăœ ËŠ Ăž Ă‹Ă•Ă?Ă? Ă“Ă–Ă–Ă‹Ă‘Ă? Ù×Ă? Ă‹ĂŁËŞËœ ĂšĂ&#x;ĂŒĂ–Ă“Ă?Ă’Ă?ĂŽ Ă“Ă˜ Ă’Ă? Ă‹Ă?Ă?Ă–Ă?Ăœ ̙ͺ͸͚Ϳ̚˛ Ëž Ă™Ă?Ă’Ă&#x;Ă•ĂĄĂ&#x; Ă—Ă—Ă‹Ă˜Ă&#x;Ă?Ă– Ă•Ă‹Ă?Ă™Ăœ Ě™ Ă“Ă‘Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă‹Ěš Ă?Ă™Ăœ ËŠ Ă–Ă– Ă&#x;Ăœ Lives’,publishedinIDIdentity:NewShortFictionFrom Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă‹ ̙ͺ͸͚΀̚˛

Alsoonthe2019judgingpanelareSefiAtta, Nigerianauthorandplaywrightshortlistedfor the2006CainePrize;MargieOrford,acclaimed authorhailedasthe“queenofSouthAfrican crime-thrillerwritersâ€?;ScottTaylor,professor, anddirectoroftheAfricanStudiesProgramat GeorgetownUniversity;andOlufemiTerry,Sierra Leone-bornauthorandwinnerofthe2010Caine Prize.Thewinnerofthisyear'sÂŁ10,000prizewill beannouncedatanawardceremonyanddinner intheBeveridgeHallatSenateHouse,SOAS,on Ă™Ă˜ĂŽĂ‹ĂŁËœ Ă&#x;Ă–ĂŁ ΀ Ă&#x;Ă–ĂŁ ĚŽ Ă“Ă˜ ĂšĂ‹ĂœĂžĂ˜Ă?ĂœĂ?Ă’Ă“Ăš åÓÞÒ Ëœ UniversityofLondon.

Theannualprize–namedafterthelateSir MichaelCaine,formerChairmanofBookerplcand ChairmanoftheBookerPrizemanagementcommitteefornearly25years–isawardedannually forashortstorybyanAfricanwriterpublishedin Ă˜Ă‘Ă–Ă“Ă?Ă’ Ě™ĂŒĂ?ÞåĂ?Ă?Ă˜ ÍťËœÍ¸Í¸Í¸ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ͚͸˜͸͸͸ ĂĄĂ™ĂœĂŽĂ?̚˛ Totheorganisers,anAfricanwriterissomeone whowasborninAfrica,orwhoisanationalofan

Africancountry,orwhohasaparentwhoisAfricanby birthornationality.

PreviouswinnersareSudan’sLeilaAboulela Ě™ÍşÍ¸Í¸Í¸ĚšËœ Ă“Ă‘Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă‹Ă˜ Ă?Ă–Ă™Ă˜ Ă‹ĂŒĂ“Ă–Ă‹ Ě™ÍşÍ¸Í¸ÍšĚšËœ Ă?Ă˜ĂŁĂ‹Ă˜ Ă“Ă˜ĂŁĂ‹Ă Ă‹Ă˜Ă‘Ă‹ Ă‹Ă“Ă˜Ă‹Ă“Ă˜Ă‹ Ě™ÍşÍ¸Í¸ÍşĚšËœ Ă?Ă˜ĂŁĂ‹Ă˜ Ă Ă™Ă˜Ă˜Ă? ĂĄĂ&#x;Ă™Ăœ Ě™ÍşÍ¸Í¸ÍťĚšËœ Ă“Ă—ĂŒĂ‹ĂŒĂĄĂ?Ă‹Ă˜ ĂœĂ“Ă‹Ă˜ Ă’Ă“Ă•ĂĄĂ‹Ă Ă‹ Ě™ÍşÍ¸Í¸ÍźĚšËœ Ă“Ă‘Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă‹Ă˜ Ă?Ă‘Ă&#x;Ă˜ Ă?Ă™Ă–Ă‹ĂŒĂ“ Ě™ÍşÍ¸Í¸Í˝ĚšËœ Ă™Ă&#x;ÞÒ Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă‹Ă˜ Ă‹ĂœĂŁ Ă‹ĂžĂ?Ă™Ă˜ Ě™ÍşÍ¸Í¸ÍžĚšËœ Ă‘Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽĂ‹Ă˜ Ă™Ă˜Ă“Ă?Ă‹ ĂœĂ‹Ă? ĂŽĂ? ĂŁĂ?Ă•Ă™ Ě™ÍşÍ¸Í¸ÍżĚšËœ Ă™Ă&#x;ÞÒ Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă‹Ă˜ Ă?Ă˜ĂœĂ“Ă?ÞÞË Ă™Ă?Ă?Ě‹ Ă˜Ă˜Ă?Ă? Ě™ÍşÍ¸Í¸Î€ĚšËœ Ă“Ă‘Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă‹Ă˜ Ă?Ă™Ă˜ĂŽĂ&#x; Ě™ÍşÍ¸Í¸Î ĚšËœ Ă“Ă?ĂœĂœĂ‹ Ă?Ă™Ă˜Ă?Ă‹Ă˜ Ă–Ă&#x;Ă?Ă?Ă—Ă“ Ă?ĂœĂœĂŁ Ě™ÍşÍ¸ÍšÍ¸ĚšËœ Ă“Ă—ĂŒĂ‹ĂŒĂĄĂ?Ă‹Ă˜ Ă™ ÓÙÖĂ?Ăž Ă&#x;Ă–Ă‹ĂĄĂ‹ĂŁĂ™ Ě™ÍşÍ¸ÍšÍšĚšËœ Ă“Ă‘Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă‹Ă˜ ÙÞÓ×Ó Ă‹ĂŒĂ‹ĂžĂ&#x;Ă˜ĂŽĂ? Ě™ÍşÍ¸ÍšÍşĚšËœ Ă“Ă‘Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă‹Ă˜ ÙÚĂ? Ă™Ă–Ă‹ĂœĂ“Ă˜ Ě™ÍşÍ¸ÍšÍťĚšËœ Ă?Ă˜ĂŁĂ‹Ă˜ Ă•ĂĄĂ“ĂœĂ“ ĂŽĂ&#x;Ă™Ăœ Ě™ÍşÍ¸ÍšÍźĚšËœ Ă‹Ă—ĂŒĂ“Ă‹Ă˜ Ă‹Ă—ĂĄĂ‹Ă–Ă“ Ă?ĂœĂšĂ?Ă–Ă– Ě™ÍşÍ¸ÍšÍ˝ĚšËœ Ă™Ă&#x;ÞÒ Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă‹Ă˜ Ă“ĂŽĂ&#x;ĂŽĂ&#x;Ă—Ă‹Ă–Ă“Ă˜Ă‘Ă‹Ă˜Ă“ Ě™ÍşÍ¸ÍšÍžĚšËœ Ă&#x;ĂŽĂ‹Ă˜Ă?Ă?Ă? Ă&#x;Ă?Ă’ĂœĂ‹ Ă‹Ă–Ě‹ Ă‹ĂŽĂ“Ă– Ě™ÍşÍ¸ÍšÍżĚšËœ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă?Ă˜ĂŁĂ‹Ă˜ ĂĄĂœĂ“ĂžĂ?Ăœ Ă‹Ă•Ă?Ă˜Ă‹ Ă˜Ă”Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă•Ă‹ ̙ͺ͸͚΀̚˛ ThePrize’spatronsaretheAfricanwinnersof theNobelPrizeforLiterature,WoleSoyinkaand JMCoetzee.Meanwhile,BaronessNicholsonof WinterbourneisPresidentoftheCouncil,BenOkri OBEisVicePresident,EllahWakatamaAllfreyOBE istheChairperson,AdamFreudenheimisDeputy Chairperson,andDeleFatunlaistheAdministrator ofthePrize.

THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ MAY 26,2019

72

INAUGURATION 2019

Editor:Olawale Olaleye Email:wale.olaleye@thisdaylive.com,

Finding the Formula for a United Presidency The nation is in dire need of a government whose sense of unity and purpose is profound, Omololu Ogunmade writes

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ith barely three days to the take-off of the second term of President Muhammadu Buhari, the need to entrench the power of unity in the forthcoming administration particularly, within the presidency, as a veritable tool for good governance is incontrovertible.

The age-long maxim, “united we stand, divided we fall,” comes to play here as it underscores the necessity for the president to set up a new administration with a unity of purpose as its bedrock.

So conscious were the founding fathers of Nigeria when they evolved “unity and faith, peace and progress,” as the motto of the then newly independent country. In the same vein, the last line of the national anthem describes Nigeria as “one nation bound in freedom, peace and unity.”

Against this background, the president is expected to constitute a compacted administration that leaves no room for division and doubt about its sense of oneness in its operations, bearing in mind the volume of progress that a united government can make within a short while.

Although the outgoing administration was swift to debunk persistent allegations of division within it, the rumour yet continued to gain grounds against the background of certain steps viewed by critics to be contradictory.

In June 2016, for instance, Senate President Bukola Saraki who had been in the eye of the storm following his trial by the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT) over alleged false declaration of assets and later by the High Court over alleged forgery of Senate Standing Orders had alleged that there was a President Buhari and Chief of Staff, Abba Kyari government within the government.

Saraki was later cleared of the allegations from the CCT Nevertheless, critics would later point to the uncomplito the Supreme Court. But irritated by the allegation of mentary security report sent to the Senate by the Department government within the government, Special Adviser to the of State Services (DSS) against the confirmation of the President on Media and Publicity, Mr. Femi Adesina, swiftly president’s nominee, Ibrahim Magu, as the Chairman of dismissed it as nothing but fiction and conjecture which Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) as a remained only in the realm of imagination. According to justification for Saraki’s claim. him, it was an allegation that didn’t worth the paper on The report accused the nominee of compromise and which it was written and more so that anybody could rise various acts of corruption, which it said made Magu unfit to and make any insinuation.

occupy such an important office, whose effectiveness could only be predicated on the forthrightness of the occupant.

It was on account of this that the senate rejected Magu’s nomination. Yet, the presidency stood its ground, seemingly convinced in its own perspective that Magu was the best choice for the job.

Hence, it believed that the move to stop him only smacked of a smear campaign by those who were gripped by fear of his perceived uncompromising stance and commitment to the government’s anti-graft campaign.

The president, hence, presented him again for confirmation but the Senate refused to shift ground as the DSS also insisted on its report, thus making Magu the first head of the anti-graft agency to perpetually serve in an acting capacity.

However, what the public perceives as a division in the outgoing administration of Buhari has been described by the president’s close aides as nothing but a disposition to give everyone the freedom to carry out his responsibility without any interference.

For them, the damaging security report against the president’s nominee by an agency of the government was only the expression of that sense of freedom given to every government agency to operate to the best of its ability without any fear or favour.

But critics were not satisfied by that claim. It is against this background of prevalent scepticism over the unity of the outgoing administration, that the president has been advised to deliberately constitute a government in his second term whose arms will not work at cross-purposes.

For well-meaning Nigerians, this will leave no room for perceived division in the government and the presidency but will rather portray it as a government whose unity of purpose cannot be called to question even by an unrepentant sceptic.

Expectatio n s and Ne e d fo r Bu h a ri to A sse m bl e a Wi n n in g Te a m No doubt the composition of President Muhammadu Buhari’s new cabinet will give an insight into the expectations from the new government writes Shola Oyeyipo

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lready, the news is filtering in that President Muhammadu Buhari is considering a bipartisan cabinet that would be made up of some radical and competent technocrats as some stakeholders in his party have begun to kick against such a move. But rather than cave in to those objections, Buhari is expected to lay a solid foundation for his

last lap by engaging only people capable of actualizing his missions.

His cabinet should therefore comprise incorruptible eggheads selected purely on the basis of merit – people who are capable of resolving the puzzles that have kept Nigeria stagnated over the years and not just another set of politicians being rewarded for their contributions to his electoral victory in the last presidential poll.

Buhari and Osinbajo at the townhall meeting tagged The Candidates

However, the president must have it in mind that Nigerians understand he has genuine intention to move the country forward but this can never be achieved without assembling a cabinet that would deliver on his vision.

With respect to all the ministers in the last cabinet, if the president would be evaluated on the basis of the outgoing cabinet, not up to 10 of them performed above average.

Many analysts and loyalists of the president are of the views that the real setback for his administration was that a number of the ministers did not key into his vision.

Not only are people expecting that during his second term, Buhari should put a cabinet in place as soon as he is sworn in. He should identify people with fresh and progressive ideas who will hit the ground running quickly change the current narrative of his administration.

His cult-like followers – mostly in the North – believed Buhari’s first four years in office were not enough to address the rot in the country. If the president’s second term would help to make Nigeria great again, many more Nigerians will likely entrust their destiny in the hands of the All Progressives Congress.

Though Buhari said through his Special Adviser, Media and Publicity, Mr. Femi Adesina, that the APC would play a role in determining the choice of his new cabinet, the party’s recommendations should not just dwell on rewarding party loyalists and power mongers.

Just as Adesina claimed that the party “won’t lord or impose things on the president,” since the buck stops on his desk, he must be aware that the glory of the success and the blame for the failure of his cabinet rest on him.

This time around, Nigerians will not be pacified by the Buhari and APC’s blame game that the “PDP mismanaged the economy”. This government is succeeding itself and must show that it has what it takes to move Nigeria to its rightful place in the comity of nations.

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INAUGURATION2019

Economy: Still Punching Below its Weight In spite of Nigeria’s huge untapped potential, the President Muhammadu Buhari administration still has a lot to do to reset the economy, writes Obinna Chima

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he Nigerian economy is currently in dire straits with major economic indicators looking grim amidst increasing vulnerabilities. This has been the story of the economy since May 29, 2015, when President Muhammadu Buhari, who is set to be sworn in for another four years, assumed office.

The underlying fundamentals of the economy have remained weak. Buhari, despite promising in 2015 to revamp the economy, has failed to achieve this in the last four years.

That Nigeria whose Gross Domestic Product (GDP) used to grow at an average of seven percent prior to the Buhari’s administration has continued to totter with growth hovering around two per cent should be discomforting to the federal government. The latest data released by the National Bureau of Statistics showed that GDP growth rate slowed to 2.1 percent in the first quarter of 2019, compared to the 2.38 per cent recorded in the fourth quarter of 2018. This shows that under Buhari, Nigeria’s population growth rate of about 2.7 percent has completely outstripped economic growth.

More worrisome is that Nigeria has overtaken India as the country with the largest number of extremely poor persons. Another data that matters for economic growth, which has continued to weaken in Nigeria is the rising state of unemployment estimated to be about 24 percent.

Poverty and unemployment combined under Buhari are the greatest challenges facing Nigeria. This has been identified as the major factor responsible for the increased state of banditry, killings, kidnapping and other forms of insecurity in most parts of the country.

In addition, the country’s revenue generation level has remained low, even as the federal government has been accumulating liabilities faster, compared to assets. Despite the positive spin about Nigeria’s benign debt to GDP currently around 20 percent, the country expends about 60 percent of its revenue on debt service. That is why less than two years after the country exited a biting economic recession, the alarm bells have started ringing again, with warnings of a possible relapse. The country’s widening deficit also means that it would certainly borrow more going forward to meet its obligatory expenditure.

Arguably the biggest fiscal drain in the economy today

CBN Governor, Godwin Emefiele, Finance Minister, Zainab Shamsuna Ahmed andUNSG Special Advocate for Inclusive Finance Development, Queen Maxima is its opaque fuel subsidy regime, which the president vowed to end prior to his victory in 2015. It was estimated to have risen to N731 billion in 2018.

According to a recent World Bank report, the calculations for fuel subsidy are currently based on heavily inflated fuel consumption estimates of 60-70 million litres per day, with the government subsidizing neighbouring countries’ petrol consumption.

Indeed, the Nigerian economy, which has a lot of untapped potential, has been punching below its weight.

Therefore, going into the next level projections, President Buhari, who is faced with hard choices, must be decisive if he wants to succeed in the next four years.

The government must work hard to shore up its revenue and must ensure that it achieves a greater level of economic diversification in the next four year, so as to insulate the economy from perennial external shocks.

President Buhari must end the current fuel subsidy regime, which has continued to create a huge fiscal hole and also muster the political will to deregulate the petroleum industry for efficiency and transparency.

There is the need to prioritize the economy over politics this time around, by ensuring that he appoints only men and women, who are competent, have integrity, character and strong vision for the country’s future as ministers.

In addition, the president must pay greater attention to the Economic and Recovery Growth Plan (ERGP). There is also an urgent need for reforms in the power sector so as to lift the level of electricity supply in the country, which would definitely have a multiplier effect on the output as well as address the rising spate of insecurity, proactively in the country and not plunge the economy into a food crisis.

Finally, the government must take advantage of the current rising oil prices to build fiscal buffers.

Buhari Must Quench the Fire of Insecurity First on President Muhammadu Buhari’s mind must be the burning desire to resolve all security crises in Nigeria, writes Shola Oyeyipo

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recent marching order to the nation’s security chiefs by President Muhammadu Buhari regarding the rising insecurity in Nigeria is considered belated.

Urging the security chiefs to do more to ensure that Nigerians go to bed and wake up feeling safe and secure less than six weeks to the end of the first term of his administration is seen by many Nigerians as laughable.

This is because many citizens have been tormented by criminals while the security agencies seem helpless.

Only the president understands why it chose to retain the current crop of security chiefs despite their apparent inability to wade off bandits, kidnappers, armed robbers, and the bloodthirsty Boko Haram.

The chiefs have not earned the trust and respect of Nigerians – largely, they appear bereft of ingenious ideas to effectively tackle insecurity or that they have become overwhelmed by the enormity of the dare-devil criminals confronting them.

President Muhammadu Buhari and the Chief of Army Staff, Tukur Buratai

Buhari must re-appraise his statement in January when addressing the Obi of Onitsha, Nnaemeka Achebe, other traditional and religious rulers at the palace of the monarch in Anambra State, that he appointed heads of security agencies in his government purely on competence and merit.

While the military and other security agencies must be commended for their gallantry in combating criminal elements in the country, more needed to be done to stop the wanton killings, especially in the northern region.

In picking a job, applicants are usually subjected to rigorous tests that allow the employer to assess their capabilities. In the same manner, the country’s leadership should evaluate the workable frameworks and the timeframe presented by potential security chiefs to determine who leads Nigeria in the war against insecurity. Stories of killings of innocent Nigerians, mass kidnapping, herdsmen attacks, the Boko Haram insurgency, robberies, banditry, rapes and all sorts of criminalities are part of Nigeria’s daily life and it is more as if these security chiefs were bereft of ideas in bringing the situation under control.

From Kajuru in Kaduna State to communities in Zamfara and then Gombe, the story is the same all over the country.

The words of a former US Ambassador to Kenya, Zimbabwe and Uganda and Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs from 2009 to 2013, who is currently the Senior Advisor to the President of the United States Institute for Peace, Johnnie Carson, is very instructive regarding the precarious security situation in Nigeria.

He said, “Nigeria’s deteriorating security the situation is likely to worsen unless the government changes its deeply flawed strategy against Boko Haram extremists.

“Support from the United States, western Europe and Nigeria’s West African neighbours can help, but only Nigeria can solve the problem – by addressing the root causes of the crisis in Boko Haram’s northern stronghold. Otherwise, Nigeria will be faced with a prolonged and spreading the insurgency of potentially disastrous consequences.”

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THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ MAY 26,2019

INAUGURATION2019

The Shape of Opposition to Come in Buhari’s Second Coming In a matter of days, President Muhammadu Buhari will begin his second term in office even though his electoral victory is being strongly disputed at the Election Petitions Tribunal. Adedayo Akinwale examines the shape of opposition to come in the eventuality that Buhari is handed the legal victory also

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y May 29, 2019, President Muhammadu Buhari of the All Progressives Congress (APC) will begin his second term in office and the journey for the next four years will begin in earnest. This will be the first time the former opposition party will be saddled with the responsibility of piloting the affairs of the country for eight years at a stretch, having successfully wrestled power from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 2015.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had on February 27, 2019 declared Buhari as the winner of the presidential election having polled 15,191,847, while the presidential candidate of the PDP, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar came second with 11,262,978 votes.

But, dissatisfied with the outcome, Atiku approached the tribunal claiming he garnered a total of 18,356,732 votes to defeat Buhari, who, according to him, polled 16,741,430 votes. He insisted the result from the server showed that he defeated Buhari in the presidential election.

However, despite the fact that the outcome of the presidential election is still being challenged by the PDP and its candidate, it won’t stop the inauguration of the incumbent Atiku and Secondus president, come May 29. states fully declared and you are still asking if we For a party that has ruled the country for 16 years are ready. The people are with us, the people are before it was defeated for the first time in 2015, it not with APC, so the issue of readiness is not even would be left with no choice than to put the APC-led there.” federal government on its toes by providing a formiA political analyst, Mr. Jide Ojo, believed that the dable and constructive opposition to the ruling party PDP has already begun to play the role of a major for the next four years except something changes. opposition party, even though they couldn’t do that During the first two years of Buhari’s first tenure, in the first two years of this administration, because the PDP was unable to play the role as the party due of their own internal wrangling caused by the leaderto its internal crisis and post-election shock. Initially, ship tussle between the Makarfi and Sheriff factions. former Borno State Governor, Ali Modu-Sheriff, was appointed the acting national chairman of the party He said, “Since that time and ahead of the election, on February 16, 2016, to lead the party out of the woods before his own removal from office at the 2016 PDP spearheaded the opposition and actually tried to galvanize many of them under the auspices of CUPP, National Convention. He was replaced by Ahmed which is an offshoot of Inter Party Advisory Council Makarfi as national caretaker chairman.

(IPAC). And a majority of CUPP members were Sheriff’s removal did not go down well with him, actually sympathetic to PDP. culminating in leadership tussle with Makarfi, from “This is the first in about twenty years that PDP May of 2016, when the PDP held parallel conventions will seek the hand of friendship and support of oppoin the cities of Abuja and Port Harcourt on the same sition parties. We do not know where CUPP is today day. It took the intervention of the judgment of the but we could see that virtually on every national Supreme Court in June 2017, before the matter was issue, PDP’s position has been very clear, even when laid to rest. the news broke on Monday about the stringent condiWhile the crisis last, former Governor of Ekiti tions for National Assembly correspondents even the State, Ayodele Fayose, assumed the role of de-facto PDP party chairman has an opinion on that. spokesperson of the party, who at the time gave “So, they are poised knowing full well that after the the Buhari-led government a run for its money. initial body language of the president and the presiSame goes for a former Minister of Aviation, Chief dent settling down, the APC leadership has not been Femi Fani-Kayode, whose acidic pen whipped the able to deliver on many of its campaign promises and leadership of the ruling party in line and also put the of course that gives opportunity to the opposition to federal government on it toes. have something to criticise.

Political analysts are, however, of the opinion that “And they are doing that successfully even to the the main opposition party cannot afford to abdicate point of becoming a nuisance. But then, that tells its role this time around as the journey for the next you that the ruling party knowing full well that after four years of President Buhari begins. They were also this term President Buhari will not be fit and proper of the opinion that since Buhari would not be eligible to contest again, so it will be up for grab, an election to contest in 2023, it means the coveted seat would where the incumbent is not contesting is usually very be for all to grab if the PDP plays it card very well, thick.” especially with the sudden demise of the Coalition of Ojo added that the PDP will be looking forward United Political Parties (CUPP).

Nevertheless, the National Publicity Secretary of the to 2023 presidency, since the ruling party already promised both South-west and South-east, saying PDP, Mr. Kola Ologbondiyan said that in spite of the while they are in a dilemma of whom to choose for rigging that characterized the just concluded election that the people are not with APC. He insisted that the the next round of the presidential election, the main party has always been providing a formidable opposi- opposition party would have taken advantage of the mess created by the APC. tion and would continue to do so.

He added: “I believe PDP has been a major opposi“From all the mago-mago, from all that they did, from all their under-hand measures, we have fourteen tion and will play that opposition role more robustly

in the next four years.”

The spokesperson for the Atiku Campaign Organisation, Mr. Segun Sowunmi assured that the presidential candidate of the party would not be silenced whatever the outcome of the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal might be.

Sowunmi said, “We are going to be bringing forward alternative viewpoints on policies, on ideas and directions and the reason is that democracy is supposed to be like that. Democracy does not imagine that once one man is declared winner, the opposition goes to sleep, it doesn’t work like that anywhere not in the parliamentary system, the presidential system; continue to in guarded manners throw up solutions.

We will begin to say this is how it should have been; this is what we think; this is how it should be.”

Meanwhile, a popular lawyer, Kayode Ajulo, was of the view that with the atrocities committed by the PDP while in power for 16 years that the party should be proscribed. He said Buhari’s reelection was a rejection of the PDP and the party represent.

“If I have my way like what some of us even mentioned, my expectation is that the PDP should be proscribed.”

Ajulo pointed out that for any viable opposition to come up, it depends on the way APC conducts it affairs. He stressed that the president should be on his toes by quickly getting his ministers together, roll out his programme and pursue it rigorously. He said it would help in fulfilling the aspiration of the people and even his campaign promises The lawyer explained: “Democracy itself is about wishes of the people...if he cannot...bring Judas Iscariot or Barnabas, Nigerians will vote for such a person. In my view, we are going for another term, Nigerians are becoming impatient; Nigerians want to see results. Mind you, if you cannot fulfil that aspiration – peoples’ yearning – people will look for their salvation somewhere else and that is the beauty of democracy.”

Therefore, as Buhari takes the oath of office for a renewal of the mandate for another four years, the opposition too is not likely to take no prisoners as far as the next four years is concerned, and this is thinking also that the PDP might not do very well in court, where it is currently challenging the outcome of the election.

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T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R ˾ MAY 26,2019

INAUGURATION2019

Strengthening Legislative, Executive Ties An effective and complementary relationship between the executive and the legislature under President Muhammadu Buhari’s watch is inevitable going forward, Shola Oyeyipo writes

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President Buhari and Saraki must have to work as a team in ntion’s interest

lthough it is common in a democracy for the executive and legislative arms of government to disagree, not a few people believe that the persistent feud over almost everything between the two arms of government is bad for the polity.

For those, who have closely monitored the activities of President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration in the last four years, particularly regarding its relationship between the executive and the parliament, it is easy to deduce that there is no love lost between them.

The shocker was that at the initial stage, the leadership of both chambers of the National Assembly were members of the ruling party, so some still query why and how the APC got it wrong. The expectation, therefore, is that President Buhari and his team in the executive must work to avoid what happened in the 8th assembly.

Though some people make the mistake of putting the blame at the doorstep of the legislature, more often than not, the executive was often the aggressor by meddling in the affairs of the legislature and not observing the principles of separation of power.

The Presidency must realize that it needs to have a healthy relationship with the lawmakers. Contrary to the hard stance of the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Adams Oshiomhole, who is already laying a foundation for another chaotic relationship with the 9th assembly by insisting on a power-sharing formula that favours only members of his party, Buhari should prepare to work hard to win the trust of the legislative arm.

In line with the principles of separation of power and rule of law, the Buhari administration should jettison the boss-servant attitude between the executive and the legislature and even the judiciary.

The president Buhari should, therefore, heed the advice of a former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Ghali Na’Abba, who said as far back as 2018 that the continued friction between the executive and the legislature is a threat to democracy and development.

Making the Judiciary Truly Independent As important as the judiciary is to the sustenance of the rule of law and democracy, the current administration has within its first four years exposed the fact that it is the most vulnerable of the three arms of government, writes Davidson Iriekpen

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here is no doubt that in the 20 years that Nigeria has witnessed uninterrupted democratic rule, the judiciary has played key role in the sustenance of the rule of law. This all-important arm of the government has made serious interventions where its attention was needed.

Before the assumption of office of President Muhammadu Buhari four years ago, what many Nigerians had agitated for the judiciary was financial autonomy for the third arm government, where their budgets would be drawn on first line charge, and for judges to deliver their judgments without undue interference.

But an all-new chapter was written when with a mindset, the current government went on a spree to decimate the judiciary and

Buhari swears-in Tanko Muhammad as acting CJN

instill fears in the mind of judges. A clue to this was when a few months after Buhari assumed office, the president during a town hall meeting with Nigerians living in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, said the judiciary remained his main “headache in the fight against corruption.”

Forgetting that corruption thrives more in the executive arm of government, the president requires the strong support of the judiciary to effectively tackle the monster. Not considering how weak his case was, he recalled that corruption in the judiciary stalled his presidential ambition for years and promised to overhaul the country’s judicial system.

With this kind of remarks from the commander-in-chief, the discerning knew it was a matter of time before the arm of government, known as the last hope of the common man began to get all

the attentions. Soon after the comment, he approached the National Assembly to grant him emergency powers.

Due to the tendencies the administration was already exhibiting, his request was turned down. Not only were peoples, especially members of the opposition parties arrested, court orders were disregarded and disobeyed.

For this reason, the National Assembly reasoned that granting the president emergency powers would make him a tyrant and dictator. Having failed to secure emergency powers, and other regular orders from the court granting bails to persons standing trial, the president turned on the judiciary and accused it of being corrupt in the discharge of its statutory duties.

In October 2016, the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, alleged that his office received complaints from concerned members of the public over the corrupt practices of some serving judges of the superior court of record. Without investigation and a petition to the National Judicial Council (NJC), he directed the Department of State Service (DSS), whose primary duty is for intelligence gathering within the country and for the protection of senior government officials, to raid the homes of seven serving judicial officers of the Supreme, Federal and High Courts across the country at the wee hours of the night and arrested some of them.

The affected Justices of the Supreme Court were Sylvanus Ngwuta and Inyang Okoro. Those from Federal High Court included Muazu Pindiga, Adeniyi Ademola, Abdullahi Liman and Nnamdi Dimgba.

The seventh judge, who was serving in Port Harcourt, Rivers State capital was saved from the raid and arrest by the prompt intervention of the state governor, Nyesom Wike.

The outcry was massive, especially among lawyers, members of the National Assembly and the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA).

That was where it ended. Nothing happened afterward.

While all these were ongoing, they did not know that a bigger repression against judiciary was underway, which was the suspension and eventual conviction of the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Walter Onnoghen in a most autocratic manner.

All of these had happened in addition to some of the disobedience to court orders, which had made the judiciary appear worthless as an arm of government.

Currently, judges live in fear with many not knowing who would be the next victim of the clampdown. This is why with what Nigerians had seen in the last four years, nobody can say for sure what will happen in the next four years. Regardless, however, the independence of the judiciary is not negotiable if Buhari desires to make any meaningful impact in the next four years.

THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ MAY 26,2019

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Editor:Olawale Olaleye Email:wale.olaleye@thisdaylive.com, SMS: 08116759819

IN THE ARENA

For Buhari, A New Season Begins...

Faced with same challenges of governance and leadership, all eyes are on President Muhammadu Buhari as he renews his oath of office for another four years this week. Olawale Olaleye writes

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ake no mistakes – President Muhamamdu Buhari is not in a place of envy right now. First off, his 2015 mandate ends on Tuesday, May 28, and he’s billed to continue in office the next day, May 29, following his victory at the February 23 presidential election.

Although candidate of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Atiku Abubakar has since challenged the outcome of the election and is presently at the tribunal with his many prayers, the reality as it were, is that an election has been won and lost and the winner, according to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), President Buhari, would be sworn in this Wednesday, May 29.

But if you took away the euphoria of Buhari’s electoral victory and the opportunity to continue where he would have stopped had the opposition been declared winner, what is left is not quite enviable and that is a fact evidenced by some of the events presently dotting the turf.

For one, Buhari, either by accident or design, is returning to office at a time the political environment is very charged, in the sense that the politics of 2023 would kick-off immediately he is sworn into office on Wednesday, thus causing huge distractions. What this means is that serious governance might Buhari, during his swearing-in on May 29, 2015 likely suffer a great deal, thus reducing whatever could be recorded as some of the gains of four years had turned up a new leaf. the last four years.

Another sign that the next four years would be Instructively, however, the monster of the 2023 different is in the fact that, apart from putting his politics is tamable, but that would be contingent to a team together in good time, Buahri could dare to be very largely extent on the style of the man at the helm different by attaching portfolios to each candidate in of affairs. In other words, aloofness on critical issues his prospective cabinet before they are forwarded to and developments would no longer be an option for the Senate for screening. This would not only make Buhari but the courage to make hard choices in coltheir approval by the upper chamber of the legislature lective interest. In essence, the president would have tidier, it encourages seriousness in the embrace of to take conscious and personal notes of developments their briefs from the go. It would also be a trailblazer. and stamp his feet where necessary.

Again, if this is achieved, the other leg to estabDefinitely, this cannot totally decimate the influlishing a brand new Buhari would be to balance the ence of the 2023 politics, but could send sufficient various interests in the choice of his appointments, signals out that would help shape the conducts of particularly, the need to reflect the nation’s diversity, politicians, whose inordinate ambition could undermerit, competence and professionalism without necesmine the current mandate. sarily downplaying loyalty, which is believed to be Whilst the nuances of 2023 intrigues are not more important to him than any other factor. totally evitable, the president cannot but hit the Importantly, the president must start to take efground running this second term. Therefore, attempt fective charge of things directly within his purview as to constitute his new cabinet six or seven months the commander-in-chief. Reliance on body language after his inauguration as was the experience the last has not only proven to be divisive and ineffective, it time, would not be condoned. Indeed, there could is also counterproductive in the final analysis. The be legitimate protest even from the most unlikely president must therefore start to step out imposingly quarters. on issues of concern and make his stand known But to show that it would not be business as usual, without equivocation. one of the first indicators would be for Mr. Buhari to This second term, his government must try as announce critical and strategic appointments at his much as possible to embrace the principle of ‘reward inauguration, designed to enable the government and sanction’ in dealing with individuals. Where take off immediately. This would be a major step in the president gives a direct order to someone and the right direction to show that things have changed the individual fails to carry out his orders, sanctions and that the famous ‘Baba Go-slow’ tag of the last must be applied to show someone is effectively in

charge. And where reward is clearly deserved, it must be given promptly to encourage others and set new standards.

Above all, the president has an even greater responsibility to keep the presidency one and united.

The experience of the last four years is nothing to be proud of. It was atypically ugly. Not only were some personal staffers of the president at loggerheads with one another, agencies directly under the supervision of the presidency unashamedly did their filthy laundry in the public, yet, without a word from the president. That cannot be rated as an outstanding quality of any leader. On the contrary, it was simply failing where necessary. In fact, the coming on board of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, was believed to have created a bit of stability and unity within the presidency, by deploying experience, relationship and maturity to play.

Not just that, he was also said to have leveraged his contacts to smoothen the otherwise poor executive/ legislative relationship. Kudos to the SGF! More people like him are needed in the government to watch the president’s back.

Lastly, Buhari must strive to be different this time around. From his approach to issues, style and relationship with development partners, he must endeavour to be a better version of himself such that in dealing with some of the issues that threaten the nation’s co-existence, a new life is breathed into the horizon and so, expectations of new but deserving results would not be sheer fantasy.

P O L I T I CA L N OT E S

Shruggingoffthose‘Draconian’Guidelines

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Funke Egbemode, President, NGE

perators of the National Assembly Commission, last week, incurred the wrath of the media, when without any thorough considerations, released new guidelines that would dictate the accreditation of journalists covering the legislature. The guidelines have since been dismissed as both draconian and

satanic.

Curiously, Senate President Bukola Saraki was equally not aware of this move, which was conceived and executed without consulting the leadership of the National Assembly. In fact, he was said to have read it like every other person in the news and was

subsequently livid as a result, same as Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara. Little wonder Saraki issued a statement distancing the leadership of the parliament from it and immediately taking steps to redressing the situation.

The truth is that the guidelines in totality were not bad save for a few of the sections. But those few sections had made nonsense of the entire provisions, necessitating the need to withdraw them for a wholesome review. There is absolutely nothing to fret about as far as those guidelines are concerned. They simply cannot fly. For instance, what business of the commission is the issue of tax or the print run of a newspaper in the age of social media? That was dumb and ill-conceived.

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T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R ˾ MAY 26,2019

BRIEFINGNOTES

Mahmood Yakubu, INEC National Chairman

Yari...a devastating denouement

Adams Oshiomhole, APC National Chairman

Zamfara APC: Learning in a Hard Way The Supreme Court’s decision nullifying the election of the All Progressives Congress’ candidates in Zamfara State is a bitter lesson to the party that acting with impunity has its consequences, writes Tobi Soniyi

H

ardly had the countdown to the 2019 general election commenced than the ruling party, the All Progressives Congress began to behave like an unruly horse. The party’s wards and states’ congresses were held in sheer disregard to its constitution, due process as well as law and order.

In many states, two separate executives emerged.

Impunity held sway.

The confusion at the congresses was bound to manifest in the conduct of primaries for elective offices. Unfortunately, the cracks which emerged during the congresses were allowed to fester by an inept leadership of the party preoccupied with its own agenda. The party’s national convention was also marred by disunity among members.

At the end of the exercise, parallel congresses emerged in 24 states namely: Abia, Adamawa, Bauchi, Bayelsa, Benue, Borno, Cross River, Delta, Enugu, Imo, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Kogi, Kwara, Lagos, Niger, Ondo, Oyo, Rivers, Sokoto and Zamfara. However, these and other early warning signals were ignored by the party as each powerful member strove to carve an empire for himself.

APC’s inability to rein in its members has already cost the party the governorship in Oyo, Rivers and Imo States. It almost did in Ogun State. And now, it’s has taken its devastating toll on Zamfara State.

Last Friday, the Supreme Court held that the APC did not conduct valid primaries in the build-up to the 2019 general election in Zamfara. The apex therefore court upheld the judgment of the Court of Appeal, Sokoto Division, which had earlier held that no valid primaries were conducted by the party in the state.

The court, in a unanimous judgment by a fivemember panel, held that a party that had no valid candidate could not be said to have emerged winner of the recently conducted general election. The court

held that the party failed to conduct primaries in accordance with the party rules and the Electoral Act. In the lead judgment by Justice Paul Adamu Galinji, the apex court held that all votes cast for the APC were “wasted votes” and declared that all political parties with the second highest votes in the elections and the required spread, are elected to the various offices.

In an appeal brought by the APC, the apex court found against the appellant and ordered a fine of N10 million against the party.

The court noted emphatically: “Candidate other than the first appellant with the highest vote stand elected. A cost of N10 million is awarded against the appellant.”

The candidate of the APC, Mukhtar Idris, had been declared winner of the elections after he polled 534,541 votes despite controversies trailing his candidacy. The PDP came second in the election and could now be declared winner of the election subject to meeting other constitutional requirements.

Unfortunately, the ruling also affected all APC candidates, who won elections into the National Assembly and Zamfara State House of Assembly.

Interesting, the PDP which is now the beneficiary of the judgment was not a party to the case. A similar scenario had manifested in Rivers State, where APC litigated itself out of the state governorship election.

The dispute in Zamfara, like others, was avoidable had the party enforced discipline among its members. But rather than be on the side of justice, the leadership became partisan and allowed the state governor, Abdulaziz Yari to run amok. The result is a disaster for the party.

Section 87(1) of the Electoral Act 2010 (as amended) is instructive, clear and unambiguous. It provides thus: “A political party seeking to nominate candidates for election under this Act shall hold primaries for aspirants to all elective positions.”

The Supreme Court has been consistent in its pronouncements on the importance of internal democracy and the need for political parties to obey its own constitution as well as the jurisdiction of the courts to intervene in this regard.

In the case of Shinkafi v. Yari (2016) 1 SC (Part II) 1 at 31, line 13 to line 23, the Supreme Court held thus: “… It is now trite that where a political party conducts its primary and a dissatisfied contestant at the primary election complains about its conduct of the primary, the courts have jurisdiction by virtue of the provision of Section 87(9) of the Electoral Act 2010 (as amended) to examine if the conduct of the primary was in accordance with the party’s Constitution and Guidelines. The reason is that in the conduct of its primaries, the courts will never allow a political party to act arbitrarily or as it likes. A political party must obey its Constitution.”

But times without number, APC had shown that it is a party that doesn’t believe in the concept of rule of law. The government formed by it has shown so much disdain for due process and rule of law. The party has disregarded its own rules as stated in its constitution, the Electoral Act and the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The APC came to power with a promise to do things differently from the party it replaced. But four years in the saddle, it has proved to be inept, disorganised and incapable of doing things differently.

If there is anyone, who should know, it is the outgoing Governor of Imo State, Rochas Okorocha. Recently, he lamented that he had been afflicted with more evils in the ruling APC than he would have suffered if he had been a member of the Peoples Democratic Party.

Apart from Zamfara, there are many other states where the APC acted with reckless abandon. One can only hope that the judiciary will remain steadfast and continue to deliver judgment in line with established judicial precedent and without fear or favour. This will further strengthen the nation’s democracy.

NOTES FOR FILE

Is NFIU Overzealous?

NFIU Boss, Modibbo Tukur

The Nigeria Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) ignited a rather sensitive debate two weeks ago, when it sought to arbitrarily take the control of the local governments away from the governors in the name of justice, starting with the allocation accruable to the councils and which is believed to have become a cesspool of corruption for the governors.

Certainly, the NFIU position is a popular one, because it resonated with the people by seeking to secure the autonomy of the councils. But again, the administration of the councils is a constitutional matter, which control is placed solely under the watch of the governors and guided by laws enacted by the state House of Assembly.

Therefore, to seek such a fundamental change in the control of an administrative vehicle, commonsense should have dictated that the NFIU could have sought or approached the matter constitutionally.

But to seek to derive this through sheer fiat is not only unconstitutional but exposes the overzealousness of an agency of government, which wants to be seen as working. This, unfortunately, is another sign that the country and her operators are far from being sane and until the leadership strives to do things the normal way, the dream of an Eldorado might be forlorn.

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T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R ˾ MAY 26,2019

CICERO/ISSUE

Weighing ‘Zamfaraexit’ and the APC’s Future While advocates of Oshiomholeexit may be jumping the gun following the loss of five (possibly seven) states by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), under the watch of its national chairman Adams Oshiomhole, his future - or lack of one - invites stern examination, writes Louis Achi

F

or sheer nimble swiftness and energy, few politicians in Nigeria today can match the dancing skill and prowess of Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, the national chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC. But these humorous, unscripted performances could easily fool some observers into misreading the essence of the diminutive Edo State-born politician.

However, following the Supreme Court’s ruling on Friday, against the victory of the APC in Zamfara State, many worried party stakeholders are asking - has Oshiomhole danced himself into a bind by considerably diminishing the party he met?

At press time, the governing APC has conceded five states - Adamawa, Zamfara, Oyo, Imo and Bauchi to the PDP with Kano and Osun states dangling precariously. The apex court held the APC did not conduct valid primaries in the buildup to the 2019 general elections in Zamfara. The ruling was in validation of the judgement of the Court of Appeal, Sokoto Division, which ruled that no valid primaries were conducted by the APC in Zamfara State.

The Supreme Court also ruled that the candidate with the second highest number of votes in the election, and who meets the constitutional requirement, should be declared winner of the election - thereby making PDP’s Matawalle effectively the governor-elect of Zamfara State.

After his two-term governance of Edo State, quick-witted Oshimhole is certainly not a rookie by any parameters.

Oshiomhole Very few current governors - whether in the ruling party or opposition - can intimidate him or educate him on the finer points or intricacies of managing a behemoth like APC. But significant tactical contradictions in the party chair’s perceived imperious administrative footing are being blamed for what the faithful see as the shrinking of the political party under his watch.

It is worth recalling that Oshiomhole was in serious battle with some state governors, fallout of the party’s primaries held to elect candidates for various elective offices in the 2019 general elections.

Oshiomhole’s main antagonists were Governors Abdulaziz Yari of Zamfara, Rochas Okorocha of Imo, Ibikunle Amosun of Ogun and Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo States. The four governors accused the party chair of highhandedness in his handling of the primaries held to elect their successors.

In November, 2018, the APC national chairman was interrogated by the State Security Service (SSS) following petitions allegedly filed by some governors.

Oshiomhole later travelled to London, where he reportedly met national party leader Bola Tinubu who was undergoing treatment for an undisclosed medical ailment.

Back to Nigeria, Oshiomhole confirmed that he was interrogated by the SSS and declared that it was not their business to investigate corruption allegations against him. Sources within the intelligence services disclosed that Oshiomhole had become an ‘interesting individual’ to them.

More specifically, Oshiomhole incurred the wrath of the erstwhile chairman of Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) Governor Abdulaziz Yari of Zamfara, over the mode of conduct of governorship primary and the “politics” that played out afterwards. Willy-nilly, this led to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), declaring that Zamfara APC did not submit the names of its candidates before the deadline given by the commission.

The crisis apparently peaked when the national headquarters of APC issued a statement three days to the deadline for elections, disbanding the Zamfara State executives and banning Yari from participating in the conduct of primaries alleging “interference”.

The APC had earlier directed states to decide which mode of primary they will use in selecting candidates:

direct primary, indirect and consensus.

While Yari’s camp, including the executive officials, chose the indirect mode, another camp, encompassing most of the other governorship aspirants, preferred the direct mode. However, notwithstanding disbanding the executive officials and sending two different committees to conduct the exercise, Zamfara APC still found it difficult to conduct a primary acceptable to all.

Going forward, Yari’s camp organised an election supervised by security officials and others. But the Oshiomhole-led NEC rejected the results. To be fair to Oshiomhole, he clearly kicked against Governor Yari’s group but conceded ultimately - even when Yari was cursing him. Still Yari unendingly blames Oshiomhole for the muddle that caged APC in Zamfara, after INEC declared that the state’s APC has no candidates to field for the 2019 elections. As it is, last Friday’s apex court ruling has effectively buried APC in Zamfara. There is more.

In Imo State, the battle between Governor Rochas Okorocha Oshiomhole also flowed from the conduct of the governorship primaries in the state. Ahead of the primaries, Imo APC was divided into two.

One camp was led by Okorocha and the other camp by his deputy, Chief Eze Madumere. Essentially, Okorocha plotted the emergence of his son-in-law, Henry Nwosu, to succeed him, while tactician Senator Hope Uzodinma was the leading aspirant on the other camp, which enjoyed the support of key party chieftains in the state.

The National Working Committee (NWC) dispatched a panel led by a former presidential aide, Ali Gulak, to conduct the election and thereafter controversially declared Uzodinma winner.

Curiously, after Gulak’s proclamation, eight members of his committee alongside the secretary, Henry Idahgbon, announced a separate result declaring Okorocha’s in-law, Nwosu, as the winner of the Imo APC governorship primary. Oshiomhole dismissed both results are fake only to U-turn later and accepted the result announced by Gulak. He said he turned his back on Okorocha because the governor wanted to use him to create a dynasty in Imo state.

The rest is history.

Interestingly, as in other states, the association between Oshiomhole and Governor Ibikunle Amosun

of Ogun State degenerated after the party’s governorship primary. Ogun State held two separate primaries, producing two candidates. While the state chairman of the party Derin Adebiyi declared Rep. Adekunle Akinlade winner, the panel sent by the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party declared oil mogul Dapo Abiodun the winner. The Oshiomhole-led NWC upheld the election of Abiodun.

Governor Rotimi Akeredolu Ondo State’s main dispute with Oshiomhole was over the later’s alleged manipulation of the Ondo State legislative primaries in favour of those seen to be the core enemies of the governor. Flowing from this heated feud, parallel congresses were held from the two opposing camps. Oshiomhole, a Tinubu loyalist, allegedly simply identified the group opposed to Akeredolu and their names were forwarded to INEC as APC candidates in the 2019 elections.

Beyond unseemly confrontations with some governors belonging to his party, Oshiomhole also engaged in a war of words with Senate President Bukola Saraki who left the APC and returned to the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

In his response to Oshiomhole’s position that Saraki lacked the moral right to remain president of the Senate, the former pointedly said Oshiomhole should also resign and even quit politics following unsubstantiated allegations that he accepted bribes during APC primaries.

Clearly, Oshiomhole fought on many fronts - several quite needless.

Trailing the avoidable crises spawned by the outcome of the primaries, Oshimhole inaugurated six reconciliation committees that went round the six geo-political zones and attempted reconciliation of aggrieved party members. This, not surprisingly, failed woefully.

With all this happening, crisis seems to be brewing on Oshiomhole’s home state Edo, currently. He cannot deny this. It seems he does not want the Governor Obaseki returned. Significantly, in all states where there have been self-inflicted crises, the APC has lost. It’s certainly time for him to put his own state in order. He can’t afford to play the ostrich. This will also help to tone down the negative stakeholders’ perception of a national chair who covets imposition.

When Oshiomhole ascended the national party chairmanship of APC - a coalition of ideologically disparate bedfellows that morphed into a national party, he pledged to reposition the party and align it with 21st Century best practices. He also signaled a total break from the old way of doing things.

He moved for the enforcement of party supremacy, a feature that has curiously gone downhill since the wistful days of Chief Adisa Akinloye, then national chairman of the ruling National Party of Nigeria, NPN, under the Alhaji Shehu Shagari presidency in the Second Republic.

The Edo-born party administrator also made it clear that the era of petulant, rambunctious anti-party intrigues to achieve personal interests were over.

Members of the APC, according to him, must submit to orderly, disciplined conduct and use prescribed channels to seek redress of any grievances.

But beyond famous pledges, an emerging consensus within the ruling party indicates that indeedgood party governance has about eight major characteristics. It is participatory, consensus oriented, accountable, transparent, responsive, effective and efficient, equitable and inclusive and follows the rule of law. It is also responsive to the present and future needs of the party. Deficits in these areas give rise to conflict in a party as were clearly experienced in the APC, leading to its loss of five and possibly more states Clearly, the position of national chairman of a ruling party, especially at a challenging period like today, requires leadership of a certain stature. After managing to oversee the reelection of President Muhammadu Buhari, many party stakeholders feel strongly that for the ruling APC to heal and strengthen its grip, a new national chairman, less imperious and controversial, is an imperative going forward.

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T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R Ëž AY 26,2019

FEATURE

Behold the Mike Adenuga Centre: A Testament in Class and Legacy For several decades, the Alliance Française, committed to promoting French culture and teaching French as a second language around the world, was located in the boisterous area of Yaba, Lagos. But thanks to the Ă‘Ă?Ă˜Ă?ĂœĂ™Ă?ÓÞã Ă™Ă? ÞÒĂ? ĂžĂœĂ“Ă–Ă–Ă“Ă™Ă˜Ă‹Ă“ĂœĂ? Ă’Ă‹Ă“ĂœĂ—Ă‹Ă˜ Ă™Ă? Ă–Ă™ĂŒĂ‹Ă?Ă™Ă—Ëœ ĂœË› Ă“Ă•Ă? ĂŽĂ?Ă˜Ă&#x;Ă‘Ă‹Ëœ Ëœ Ëœ Ëœ ÞÒĂ? Ă™ĂœĂ‘Ă‹Ă˜Ă“Ă?Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜ Ă˜Ă™ĂĄ Ă’Ă‹Ă? Ă‹ Ă˜Ă?ĂĄ ÒÙ×Ă? Ă“Ă˜ ÕÙãÓ ÞÒËÞ Ă’Ă‹Ă? ĂŒĂ?Ă?Ă˜ ËÚÞÖã Ă˜Ă‹Ă—Ă?ĂŽ ÞÒĂ? Ă“Ă•Ă? ĂŽĂ?Ă˜Ă&#x;Ă‘Ă‹ Ă?Ă˜ĂžĂœĂ?Ë› Ă“Ă˜Ă?Ă? Ă“Ăž ĂĄĂ‹Ă? ĂŽĂ?Ă?Ă–Ă‹ĂœĂ?ĂŽ open to the public in April, the centre has been commanding commendations from far and near; from art ËʨĂ?Ă“Ă™Ă˜Ă‹ĂŽĂ™Ă? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă‹ĂœĂžĂ“Ă?ĂžĂ? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ĂšĂœĂ?Ă?Ă—Ă“Ă˜Ă?Ă˜Ăž Ă“Ă‘Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă‹Ă˜Ă?Ëœ ĂĄĂœĂ“ĂžĂ?Ă? Lanre Alfred

I

n Adenuga’s reckoning, it is all in a day’s work. Unlike the proverbial warrior who lives to sing the song of his own deeds and derring-do, Adenuga remains impressively humble and immune to conceit, treading a rare path to acclaim thus, attracting honour in torrents, from home and abroad.

While he strikingly commands the relentless tribute of a cheer, his feats reverberate as deafening applause for the extraordinariness of the man who taught Nigeria and the African continent to trust in the soul and entrepreneurial depth of man.

Adenuga makes history every hour, to which he industriously adds page after page, volume after volume, as if nature were holding up a monument to his exploits Like an oasis in a desert, the Mike Adenuga Alliance Française Centre, straddling three highbrow streets (Gerard, Alfred Rewane and Osborne) in Ikoyi, and nestled amidst a clutch of high rise and wellappointed buildings that bespeak class and high profile commerce, is so outstanding in its opulence and sheer beauty that it looks like it had just rolled off a production line or as if beamed there rather than constructed. Unapologetically modern, the centre’s white exterior spews elegance without recourse to obscenity and has an interior ornamented with pristine decor.

Everywhere is spick-and-span and has the halo of an improvised Eden on earth.

It is a dream of bliss; a real life Front view of the centre pictogram of the fabled Neverland.

Amid its captivating plot, you could be forgiven for getting lost, metaphorically, if you are a first time visitor. Recurrent callers at the centre have been known to keel over, in enthrallment with the lavish treat.

Outside, it is garlanded with carven imageries of archs and flowers, and bunches of knot-grass. Inside, it is ornamented with panes of quaint decor, embroidered fabric and devices. It’s ambience of splendid dyes and luxury titivate like the damasked wings of the tiger-moth.

Such taste for luxury as displayed by Dr. Adenuga, it is often said, has ruined more poets and caused them to lose their wit, than ever did a taste for the gutters. The Mike Adenuga Centre no doubt, inspires the best of lyricism in the established poet and apathetic to art.

Apart from a spacious car park, the new venue would offer facilities such as a world-class art gallery, a French restaurant with a bakery, a state-of-the-art cinema, artists’ studios, an outdoor amphitheatre, a library and e-library, nine fully-equipped French language classrooms, translation and interpretation service, Campus France branch, offices and much more. Every house has something of the personality of the owners in it, a hint of the people behind the design; no wonder the centre has the touch of a billionaire with a taste for all things exotic and exquisite.

Its beauty has been inspiring gawks and double takes, and odes and appreciation to Mike Adenuga, the trillionaire chairman of Globacom Limited, whose love for the arts spurred him to create this hub of cross-cultural immersion with a view to making an exciting and impactful contribution to the arts scene in Nigeria.

President Macron of France with CEO Globacom, Mrs. Bella Disu One cannot agree any less. Too many people in the modern world view luxury as vainglorious but to Adenuga it is the essence of a charmed life that he has been blessed part of this story. I do want my country and citizens to be with and which he wants to bequeath on humanity. No part of this experience, which means sharing same values, poet or proponent of the high art would visit the centre and cultures, languages, literature, music, movies, projects, not descend into the chamber of an eternal muse. common economic projects, among others.�

Officially declared open to the public last April, the The youthful President said further that the Alliance French President Emmanuel Macron had in July 2018 Française is a commitment aimed at making the friendship inaugurated the centre during a visit to Lagos. According between both countries, which have different but vivid and to Macron, the centre is aimed at fostering friendship vibrant cultures, as well as lifting barriers that have existed between Nigeria and France, saying, “Lagos is one of the between both cultures. He added, “The common space we challenges of, not only Nigeria but Africa. This huge city have is not linked to language or country. We are different is a tremendous challenge about how to make people live people, but we share the same values and it is precisely together in peace and better society; I want France to be these common values we want to convey.â€? In a chat with

this of

correspondent on the sideline the building’s inauguration, revered playwright and Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, said that no Nigerian alive has invested in the advancement of the arts and creative industry as much as Adenuga. He added that the Globacom boss’ cross-cultural ideas and development is one without geographical borders.

However, in homage to his humanity and relentless strides at rewriting the African business narrative, the French government recently invested him with a Knight of the Legion of Honour (Chevalier de la Legion d Honneur), the highest French decoration and one of the most famous in the world. Established in 1802 by NapolÊon Bonaparte to recognize eminent accomplishments of service to France, the Chevalier de la Legion d Honneur, France’s premier award, has been presented on behalf of the French Head of State to only the most deserving citizens in all fields of activity. Dr. Adenuga is the only and first ever Nigerian that has so far received the award since inception.

He was recognised and honoured for his “remarkable contribution to the development of the French-Nigerian relations, his appreciation of the French culture and also for the advancement and betterment of humanity.�

Notwithstanding his depth as an entrepreneur, philanthropist and citizen of humanity, Adenuga covets no vanities thus unlike many of other billionaires; he demands no free verses, heroic couplets or ornamental rhymes to glorify his personage as a man. Adenuga is hardly given to such infectious vanities.

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THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER Ëž ÍşÍžËœ ͺ͸͚Î

Deconstructing Saraki’s Senate

SMS: 08116759819

ĂŽĂ“ĂžĂ™ĂœË? Olawale Olaleye Ă—Ă‹Ă“Ă–Ë? ĂĄĂ‹Ă–Ă?Ë› Ă–Ă‹Ă–Ă?ĂŁĂ?̜ÞÒÓĂ?ĂŽĂ‹ĂŁĂ–Ă“Ă Ă?Ë›Ă?Ù×

The Eighth Senate inaugurated on June 9, 2015 will come to an end by June 8 but it has to its credit amidst many challenges, laudable achievements, writes Deji Elumoye

L

ess than two weeks from now, the Eighth National Assembly under the Chairmanship of a former two-time governor of Kwara State (2003 to 2011) and two-time Senator (2011 to 2019), Dr. Bukola Saraki, will wind down to give way for the Ninth Assembly, which is expected to be inaugurated on June 11. Both chambers of the Eighth Assembly hit the ground running upon the election of Saraki and Yakubu Dogara as Senate President and Speaker, House of Representatives, respectively.

Although for the better part of the 8th Assembly, there was no love lost between the Senate leadership and the Executive and this really affected the legislative duties of the 109 Senators. Because Saraki emerged Senate President against the wish of the leadership of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), every possible step was taken to intimidate and harass him.

At a point, Saraki was arraigned before the Code of Conduct Tribunal over allegations of non-declaration of his assets since leaving office as governor in 2011.The case dragged on till the Supreme Court discharged and acquitted him of all the allegations. The Nigeria Police also leveled allegations against Saraki over the Offa robbery incident that claimed over 30 lives in April, 2017 and again the Senate President approached the court even as the Attorney-General of the federation advised the Police that there was no strong evidence to prosecute Saraki over his alleged involvement in the robbery incident. Saraki...leaving the senate better Despite all the witch-hunt by the President Muhammadu Buhari government, the Senate President refused to be cowed and Raji-Rasaki from Ekiti Central (Culture forged ahead by providing the required and Tourism) and Abubakar Kyari from leadership for the Senate in particular and Borno North (Defence), Hope Uzodinma from Imo West (Customs, Excise and TarEighth Assembly in general.

From June to November, 2015, the Senate iffs), Rose Okoji Oko from Cross River was ran without the statutory commit- North (Diaspora and Non-Governmental tees as only four special committees were Organisation), Joshua Lidani from Gombe constituted for the legislative business of South (Drugs and Narcotics ), Bukar the upper chamber of the National As- Abba Ibrahim from Yobe East (Ecology and Climate Change), Aliyu Wamakko sembly to run.

The special committees set up by Saraki from Sokoto North (Education, Basic and in July, 2015 included Ethics, Privileges Secondary), Sam Anyanwu from Imo East and Public Petition headed by Senator (Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions) Sam Anyawu (PDP Imo East); Rules and and Tijjani Kaura from Zamfara North Business chaired then by Senator Babajide (Police Affairs).

Also listed were Senators Kabiru Marafa Omoworare (APC Osun East); General Services headed by Senator Ibrahim Gobiri from Zamfara Central (Petroleum Down(APC Sokoto East) and Public Accounts stream), Tayo Alasoadura from Ondo (SPAC), which is the only constitutionally Central (Petroleum Upstream), Albert recognised committee headed by Senator Akpan from Akwa Ibom North East (Gas), Oluremi Tinubu from Lagos Central Andy Uba (PDP Anambra South).

By November 4, 2015, the Senate leader- (Environment), Monsurat Sunmonu from ship then decided to constitute 65 statutory Oyo Central (Foreign Affairs), John Enoh committees which were later increased from Cross River Central (Finance), Lanre to 69 and priority was given to ranking Tejuoso from Ogun Central (Health), Dino Senators in the choice of the Chairmen of Melaye from Kogi West (Federal Capital Territory), Barnabas Gemade (Housing), the committees.

The list of the committee chairmen Buhari Abdulfattah from Oyo North (ICT included Senators Abdullahi Adamu and Cyber Crime) and Suleiman Nazif from Nasarawa West (Agriculture and from Bauchi North (INEC).

There were Suleiman Adokwe from NaRural Development), George Akume from Benue North West (Army), Duro Faseyi sarawa South (Information and National from Ekiti North (Air Force), Chukwuka Orientation), Andy Uba from Anambra Utazi from Enugu North (Anti- Corrup- South (Interior), Bayero Nafada from tion and Financial Crimes), Danjuma Goje Gombe North (Inter-Parliamentary Affrom Gombe Central (Appropriations) fairs), Samuel Egwu from Ebonyi North and Adamu Aliero from Kebbi Central (Industry), David Umaru from Niger East (Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Mat(Aviation).

Others were Senators Adebayo Ibrahim ters), Olugbenga Ashafa from Lagos East from Kwara South (Banking, Insurance and (Land Transport), Babajide Omoworare other Financial Institutions), Gilbert Nnaji from Osun East (Legislative Compliance), from Enugu East (Communications), Stella Shehu Sani from Kaduna Central (Local Oduah from Anambra North (Cooperation, and Foreign Debts), Ahmed Sani from Integration in Africa and NEPAD), Fatima Zamfara West (Marine Transport), Sabi

Abdullahi from Niger North (Media and Public Affairs), Suleiman Hunkuyi from Kaduna North (National Identity and National Population ) and Rabiu Kwankwaso from Kano Central (National Planning and Economic Affairs ).

Not left out were Isa Misau from Bauchi Central (Navy), Peter Nwaoboshi from Delta North (Niger Delta), Mao Ohuabunwa from Abia North (Primary Health Care and Communicable Diseases), Ben Murray- Bruce from Bayelsa East (Privatisation), Mathew Urhoghide from Edo South (Public Accounts), Baba Garbai from Borno Central (Rules and Business), Ajayi Boroffice from Ondo North (Science and Technology), Ibrahim Gobir (Senate Services), Magnus Abe from Rivers South East (FERMA) and Adeola Olamilekan from Lagos West (Local Content).

Lucky too were Mohammed Shittu from Jigawa North East (Water Resources), Enyinnaya Abaribe from Abia South (Power, Steel Development and Metallurgy), Abdulaziz Nyako from Adamawa Central (Special Duties), Binta Masi from Adamawa North (Women Affairs), Obinna Ogba from Ebonyi Central (Sports and Social Development), Abdullahi Gumel from Jigawa North West (States and Local Government), Jibrin Barau from Kano North (Tertiary Institutions and TETFUND), Sabo Nakudu Mohammed from Jigawa South West (Trade and Investment) and Kabiru Gaya from Kano South (Works).

With the composition of the committees, the Senate in November, 2015 swung into action discharging its legislative duties and oversight.

The Eighth Senate in the areas of legislative duties and oversight worked on and passed priority bills that included the Nigerian Railway Bill 2015; Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act CAP B2 LFN 2011 (Repeal and Re-enactment) 2015; National

Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment Bill 2015; Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria Bill 2015; Electronic Transaction Bill 2015; Agriculture Credit Guarantee Scheme Act (Amendment) Bill 2015; Commercial Agriculture Credit Scheme Bill 2015; Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Bill 2015, and National Poverty Eradication Commission Bill 2015.

There were also the North East Development Commission (NEDC) Bill 2015; Erosion Control and Prevention Commission Bill 2015; Counterfeit and Fake Drugs and Unwholesome Processed Foods (Miscellaneous provision) Amendment Bill 2015; Federal University of Petroleum Resources Effuru Bill 2015; Food Security Bill 2015; Nigerian Agricultural Quarantine Service Bill 2015; Environmental Managers Registration Council of Nigeria Bill 2015; Nigeria Institute of Soil Science Bill 2015; Nigeria Football Federation Bill 2015; National Sports Commission Bill 2015; Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Bill 2015; Witness Protection Programme Bill 2015; Defence Space Agency Bill 2015; High Court of the Federal Capital Territory Abuja (Amendment) Bill 2015; Air Force Institute of Technology Bill 2015 and Credit Bureau Reporting Bill 2015.

The bills passed by the Eighth Senate in 2016 include Federal Roads Authority Bill 2016; National Assembly Budget and Research Office Bill 2016; Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters Bill 2016; National Lottery Act 2005 (Amendment) Bill 2016; Electoral Act 6 2010 (Amendment) Bill 2016; Public Procurement Act (Amendment) Bill 2016; Petroleum Industry Governance Bill 2016; National Inland Waterways Act Cap N47 LFN 2004 (Repeal and Re-enactment) Bill 2016; Nigerian Ports and Harbours Authority Act (Amendment) Bill 2016 and JAMB Act (Amendment) Bill 2016.

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Deconstructing Saraki’s Senate There were Nigerian Customs Service Bill 2016 and Nigerian Customs Service Act (Repeal and Re-enactment) Bill 2016; Warehouse Receipts Bill 2016; Secured Transactions in Movable Assets Bill 2016; Sexual Harassment in Tertiary Educational Institution Bill 2016; Federal University of Wukari (Establishment, etc) Bill 2016; Maritime University of Nigeria, Okerenkoko (Establishment, etc) Bill 2016 and Compulsory, Free Universal Basic Education Act 2004 (Amendment) Bill 2016 and Universal Basic Education Act 2003 (Amendment) Bill 2016.

In 2017, the upper legislative chamber also passed the National Open University of Nigeria Act (Amendment) Bill 2017; Nigerian Peace Corps (Establishment, etc) Bill 2015 and the National Unity and Peace Corps (Establishment, etc) Bill 2015; Federal University of Maritime Studies, Oron Bill 2017; National Institute for Legislative Studies Act (Amendment) Bill 2017; National Research and Innovation (Est, etc.) Bill 2017; Nigeria Financial Intelligence Agency Bill 2017; Institute of Chartered Biochemist and Molecular Biologist Bill, 2016; Whistle Blowers Protection Bill 2015; Abduction, wrongful restraints and wrongful confinement for ransom bill 2017 and Prohibition and Protection of persons from lynching, mob action and Extra Judicial Executions Bill, 2017.

Also to the credit of the eighth senate were Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation Act (Repeal and Re-enactment) Bill 2017; Hydroelectric Power Producing Area Development Commission (Amendment) Bill 2015; Chartered Institute of Entrepreneurs (est., etc.) Bill 2015; Chartered Institute of Capital Market Registrars Bill 2017; Presidential Inauguration Bill 2016; National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (Establishment, etc) Bill 2016; Federal University of Agriculture Kaaba (Establishment, etc) Bill 2016; Federal Colleges of Education Act (Amendment) Bill 2017; Niger Delta Development Commission (Amendment) Bill 2017; Nigeria Arabic Language Village, Ngala Bill 2017; Nigeria French Language Village, Badagry Bill 2017 and Demutualization Bill 2017.

The bills passed in 2018 included the Revised Edition (Laws of the Federation of Nigeria) Bill 2018; Arbitration and Conciliation act cap A18 LFN 2004 (Repeal and re-enactment) Bill 2018; Emergency Powers (Repeal and re-enactment) Bill 2018; Federal University Gashua Bill 2018; National Transport Commission (Est., etc.)

Bill 2018; (SB. 242), Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Bill 2018; River Basin Development Act cap R9LFN2004 (Amendment) Bill 2018; National Centre for Disease Control Prevention (establishment, etc) Bill 2018; Industrial Development (Income Tax Relief) Act (Amendment) Bill; Chartered Institute of Directors of Nigeria Bill 2018; Chartered Polymer Institute of Nigeria Bill 2018; Companies and Allied Matters Bill 2018; Federal Polytechnics Act (amendment) Bill 2018 and Federal University of Health Sciences Otukpo (Est., etc.) Bill 2018 (SB. 504).

For 2019, no few than 45 bills including the National Minimum Wage Bill, which pegged the least salary of a worker at N30,000 had been passed by the Senate, while 25 out of the 2019 bills were passed within the last two weeks.

Alluding to the number of bills passed by the Eighth Senate, Saraki, in a statement issued on April 22, 2019 boasted that, “This Senate has surpassed the records of all previous Senates in the number of bills passed, the significance of these bills to the revival of the economy, the fight against insecurity and corruption, improvement in the provision of health service and the education sector, as well as better social service delivery to the generality of the people. “The bills passed, motions moved, intervention made and frequent engagements with the people were all directed towards addressing the day-to-day issues that affect

Cont’d from pg. 80

A joint sitting of the National Assembly

the lives of the ordinary Nigerians. This Senate has passed 282 bills (the highest any Senate had passed is 129 bills recorded by the 5th Senate), among which is the Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters Act, Public Procurement Act (amendment) Bill, Petroleum Industry Governance Bill, Electoral Act (amendment) Bill, Police Reform Bill, Police Trust Fund Bill, Nigeria Railways Authority Bill, Company and Allied Matters Act (amendment) Bill, Secured Credit Transactions Act, Whistleblowers Protection Bill, constitution amendment bills, Discrimination Against Persons With Disability Bill, Electronic Transaction Bill, Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act, North East Development Commission (NEDC) Act, Witness Protection Programme Bill, Credit Bureau Reporting Bill, Sexual Harassment in Tertiary Educational Institution Bill and Compulsory Treatment and Care of Victims of Gunshots Bill, National Financial Intelligence Agency Act, Federal Audit Services Commission Bill, among others. “Most of the bills listed above got international and national endorsements from stakeholders, who lauded the Senate for the move. For example, the Financial Intelligence Database Agency (Ultrascan) commended the Senate for passing the NFIU Act, which enabled the country to be re-admitted into the Egmont Group. “Also, the Nigerian Police leadership has praised the Senate for passing the Police Reforms Bill and the Police Trust Fund Bill. Again, when the National Assembly in the 2018 budget gave effect to the law allowing one per cent of the budget to be devoted to Primary Health Care Delivery; it got kudos from Bill Gates, Bono, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus of WHO, and various national groups, who believe the move would bring health care delivery to the poor people across the country. “The passage of the UBEC Act (amendment) Bill was praised by Pakistani child education campaigner and youngest Nobel Laureate, Yousafzai Malala. When the PIGB was passed, Political parties, National Association of Petroleum Explorationists (NAPE), among others, hailed the Senate for a good job.

Even the World Bank commended the National Assembly for the passage of the Company and Allied Matters Act and Secured Transactions in Movable Assets and Credit Bureau Reporting Act. “The Eighth Senate has done very well and will leave a good legacy. Despite all

the underhand tactics to undermine the legislature by outsiders and the public posturing, members have always worked as a team on critical issues that have benefits for our people and our nation. That is why hitherto unachievable legislations like the PIGB, Police Reforms Act and other bills or amendments to existing laws were passed with ease, because the members and the leadership know that they are elected as Senators of the Federal Republic and not as party representatives�.

However, despite the large number of bills passed by the Senate and by extension the House of Representatives, President Buhari had in the last four years refused assent to no fewer than 47 bills.

The rejected bills by President Buhari included the controversial National Housing Fund Bill, Ajaokuta Steel Company Completion Fund Bill, Nigerian Aeronautical Search and Rescue Bill, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency Bill, National Biotechnology Development Agency Bill, the National Institute of Credit Administration Bill, Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria Bill as well as the Chattered Institute of Training and Development of Nigeria (Establishment) Bill.

Other bills earlier rejected by Buhari included Industrial Development (Income Tax Relief) Amendment Bill, Petroleum Industry Governance Bill, Stamp Duties (Amendment) Bill, National Institute of Hospitality and Tourism (Est.) Bill, National Research and Innovation Council (Est.) Bill, National Agricultural Seeds Council Bill, Agricultural Credit Guarantee Scheme Fund (Amendment) Bill, Chattered Institute of Entrepreneurship (Est.) Bill, Subsidiary Legislation (Legislative Scrutiny) Bill, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (Amendment) Bill, Advance Fee Fraud and Other Related Offences (Amendment) Bill as well as six constitution amendment bills.

He also rejected the Nigerian Film Corporation Bill, Immigration (Amendment) Bill, Climate Change Bill, Chattered Institute of Pension Practitioners Bill, Digital Rights and Freedom Bill, National Transport Commission Bill, Federal Road Authority (Establishment) Bill, National Broadcasting Commission Amendment Bill, National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA) Act (Amendment) Bill and Federal Polytechnics Act (Amendment) Bill.

In addition, the President rejected the four versions of the Electoral Act (Amend-

ment) Bill passed by the Eighth National Assembly.

The legislative interventions of the upper chamber of the National Assembly since June, 2015 include the first-ever National Assembly Joint Public Hearing on the budget, which gave the public, Civil Society Organisations and stakeholders like labour organisations an opportunity to weigh-in on the 2017 Appropriations bill. Senate also intervened in the Abuja Airport Closure in 2017, saying the closure would affect businesses operating in the capital and pushed for alternatives to the closure of the Abuja airport.

In September, 2016, the Senate constituted an eight-man Ad Hoc Committee on North East, charged with the task of ascertaining the total amount of funds that have been released to the Presidential Initiative on the North East and probing spending by the Federal Government on the humanitarian crisis in the North-east.

The Committee indicted the then Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, for misappropriating funds upwards of N200million.

Other legislative interventions apart from the Eighth Senate passing 277 bills and treating 197 petitions include Senate allocation of N10bn in March, 2016 to Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in the Northeast in recognition of the dire situation.

The Senate also submitted a 21-point resolution on executive actions that the executive needed to take to shore up investor confidence, create jobs, increase revenues and get Nigeria’s economy back on track.

The last legislative intervention of the Senate was the N10billion it added to the N8.916trillion 2019 federal budget passed last month by the National Assembly for tackling humanitarian crisis in Zamfara State as requested for by Senator Marafa in a motion moved to that effect on the floor of the Senate on Wednesday, April 10, 2019 and accordingly adopted and effected in the 2019 budget estimates in collaboration with the House of Representatives.

All said and done, one is not too sure if President Buhari will assent to the recent 45 bills passed by the Assembly before the 8th National Assembly winds down on or before June 8. But one thing is certain, the eighth senate is leaving behind a legacy too big and cosmopolitan for the fainthearted. Kudos to the quality leadership provided by Saraki!

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with DEMOLA OJO demola.ojo@thisdaylive.com

SOCIAL MEDIA BITS

Last week on social media, an ex-President raised the alarm, a Nobel Laureate backed him, and the Ekiti governor won a double victory...

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ast week started with a bang as former President Olusegun Obasanjo stated that the activities of Boko Haram and herdsmen are no longer a result of lack of education or employment but rather, geared towards a West African Fulanisation and an African Islamisation agenda.

The Federal Government – through the Minister of Information, Lai Mohammed - described Obsanjo’s comments as absurd and divisive.

It is particularly tragic that a man who fought to keep Nigeria one was the same person seeking to exploit the country’s fault lines to divide it in the twilight of his life, Mohammed stated.

However, Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka, who hardly agrees with the ex-President on anything, echoed his fears.

Soyinka noted that Nigeria was descending into a horrendous abyss and “we should act fast to save the situation. Those who expound history from our schools should be taken away from history.�

Referring in particular to Obasanjo’s

warning and the FG’s response, he said; “I heard the Minister of Information, and I had the feeling that they are leaving aside the substance and worrying too much about the language.�

While all this was the subject of public discourse, the government through the Minister of Education, Adamu Adamu, said it acquired an Amplitude Modulation radio broadcast licence to reach Fulani herdsmen across various locations in the country. It will broadcast exclusively in the Fulani language.

This was condemned by the Christian Association of Nigeria, with the religious body stating that the action further validates Obasanjo’s comments.

According to Pastor Bayo Oladeji, the special assistant to CAN President Samson Ayokunle, “It was reported in the newspapers that the government planned to give the Miyetti Allah N100bn. The government denied it only for the Miyetti Allah to own up, saying it was approved by former President Goodluck Jonathan. Who is fooling who?

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SOCIAL MEDIA BITS “Why didn’t they set up a radio station for farmers too? Where is the radio station for the bandits in Zamfara, or for the Niger Delta militants? No single person has been prosecuted for the killings in the NorthCentral. Is the allegation by former President Olusegun Obasanjo that there is a planned Fulanisation of the country not playing out now?�

In the midst of all these, it could easily be missed that Acting CJN Tanko Muhammad, was dragged to court by a businessman, Tochi Michael, who claims the CJN falsified his date of birth from December 31, 1950 as contained in all his official records, including that of WAEC, to December 31, 1953 upon his appointment as a judicial officer.

Meanwhile, Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi has reason to keep flashing his signature smile after a double victory. He was the consensus choice as the chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, around the same time that the Supreme Court ratified his election as governor.

On the other hand, some soon-to-be ex-Governors are heading for the National Assembly where they will share in the largesse lawmakers enjoy.

Not only do lawmakers take home extremely generous allowances, they also get juicy welcome packages as well as severance packages.

The Socio-Economic Rights Accountability Projects (SERAP) has vowed to challenge the proposed N4.68 billion welcome package for the 469 National Assembly members-elect in court, describing it as illegal.

One of the incoming lawmakers, Akin Alabi, reported his encounter at the American embassy following the new directive which does without the “dropbox� option for those renewing their visas.

All applicants have to appear in person to submit their application for review.

This is on the heels of a directive last month by US President Donald Trump to the State Department and Homeland Security to implement a broad series of punishments for countries whose citizens overstay their tourist and business visas more than 10% of the time.

An interesting statistic: the percentage of “overstayers� from Nigeria rose from 3.05% in 2014 to 15.18% in 2018, an indicator of mass emigration from the country during the tenure of Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari.

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T H I S D AY • SUNDAY MAY 26, 2019

T H I S D AY • SUNDAY MAY 26, 2019

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T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R ˾ MAY 19, 2019

NEWSXTRA Ambode Winds up Official Duties, Unveils Onikan Stadium Today Says he’s fulfilled with projects executed

Gboyega Akinsanmi Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode will inaugurate a newly constructed Onikan Stadium, an ultramodern sports facility with 5,100-seating capacity specifically redesigned in conformity to international standard.

As shown on the manifest of the state government, Ambode will wind up official activities of his administration with the inauguration of the sports facility constructed to house at least 9000 fans during concert and entertainment and that of Lagos Theatre, Badagry on Monday.

Also, the inauguration will bring to a close the unveiling of different strategic projects (christened legacy projects) the Ambode administration had initiated after the 50th anniversary of the state.

The legacy projects include Oshodi transport interchange, Institute of Maternal and Child Health (a.k.a Ayinke House), Oshodi-Murtala Muhammed International Airport road and Lagos Theatre, Oregun which President Muhammadu Buhari inaugurated on April 24.

After unveiling the ultra-modern theatre in Epe on Friday, the governor said he was fulfilled, citing different people-focused projects his administration had projects within the ancient town and its adjoining communities.

Ambode, whose tenure ends on Tuesday, said he was able to implement a number of projects which changed the outlook of the town and made life further comfortable for the people, as well as improve the Gross Domestic Products (GDP) of the state.

He said, “This is more or less a fulfilling day for me. If there is anything for me to say, it is the fact that I am fulfilled that

a day like this can come in Epe. In four years, we have turned things around. God has given us that grace that we can come back here and actually spend my last weekend here with my people.

“We are very delighted that among the Art Theatres that we have established, we have the opportunity to come and commission the one in Epe. President Buhari unveiled the first one – the Lagos Theatre, Oregun and then followed by the one in Igando.

“That of Badagry will be commissioned tomorrow making four out of the six that we had actually planned. Two to go and believing strongly that the vision to actually bring out the best of the talents of our younger ones is part of this structure that you are seeing here.”

He said the initiative to construct the theatres across the state was borne out of the vision to create a framework to bring out the creativity and innovative skills of talented youths, as well as serving as a platform to scale up communal bonding among the people.

Ambode said, “We are also renovating Glover Memorial Hall. It has been fully paid for. In another few months, they should be able to commission it also so that we can have top class tourist attractions in all these locations.

People can decide to come and watch a play in Epe and then drive back to Lagos.

“In totality, beyond bringing out the talent of our youths, the ultimate goal is to increase the GDP of Lagos because in the services provided here and other things that would be done in other locations, you have more

UNICEF, SCI Canvass End to Violence against Children Francis Sardauna in Katsina and Kuni Tyessi in Abuja The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the Save the Children International (SCI) have expressed grave concern over the increasing cases of abuse against children in the country, thereby tasking governments at all levels on the need to domesticate and adhere to the Child Rights Act. At separate fora yesterday, the international organisations canvassed that with the Child Rights Act in place, the country would stand to gain future benefits especially in education and healthcare amongst several others.

While the UNICEF is a specialised agency of the United Nations working in over 190 countries globally, the SCI is an international non-governmental organisation operating in over 120 countries around the world.

At a programme held at Government Day Secondary School, Kofar-Yandaka, Katsina to mark the organisation’s centenary in preparation for the Children Day, the SCI through its Coordinator of Community Engagement and Advocacy, Murjanatu Kabir urged stakeholders to come up with

measures that will end violence against children in the federation.

As the world’s leading independent children’s charity organization, the SCI noted that the SCI “is committed to seeing people, government, institutions are mobilized for the ultimate good of our children and not against them”.

The coordinator listed lack of laws, prosecution of culprits and lack of proper parental upbringing as factors militating against children in the country, thus calling on policymakers to rekindle their efforts to revamp the threat.

“It is my prayer that in all warfronts where one child is affected, there should be the needed legislation, policies, finances, security and safety measures, widespread outcry and psychological to the victims.”

Also at the programme, the Speaker of Katsina State Children’s Parliament Abdulrahaman Musa said despite advancement of education and global supports, children in Nigeria are treated not as human but as children.

He, however, prayed that children “will live in a world free from violence, full of opportunities; a world where we will grow and achieve our full potentials; a better, safer and healthier place to live”.

people that will be earning income.

“You would have more people that would be paying taxes; you

have more people that you can generate income from which you can now use back to improve on the lot of Lagos residents,”

the governor said. He, therefore, thanked the people of Epe Division for standing by him during the bad and good times,

thereby urging them “to support the incoming administration of Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu to further develop the state.”

SECOND TERM BEGINS...

L-R: Enugu State Governor, Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi; his Abia counterpart, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, Enugu State Commissioner for Labour and Productivity, Hon. Charles Ogbo Asogwa and out-gone Captain, Golf Section, Enugu Sports Club, Hon. Chuks Ugwoke, during the Golf Cup Tournament as part of the activities marking Ugwuanyi’s second term inauguration held in Enugu...yesterday

Despite Presidential Support, I’ll Defeat Gbajabiamila, Says Bago Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan An aspirant for the office of the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Mohammed Bago yesterday said he was in the race to provide an alternative to the choice of the party, boasting that he would defeat the House Leader, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila despite presidential support.

However, a lawmaker representing Oyo North Senatorial District, Senator Fatai Buhari and a House of Representatives’ member-elect, Hon. Musiliudeen Akinremi claimed that 51 senators and 191 members

of the lower chamber had endorsed Gbajabiamila and the Senate Leader, Senator Ahmed Lawan for the speakership and senate presidential race.

Bago expressed confidence to defeat Gbajabiamila at the second Ramadan lecture of the member-elect representing Iseyin/Itesiwaju/Kajola/ Iwajowa Federal Constituency, Hon. Shina Peller, noting that said he was in a better position to be elected the Speaker of the House of in the ninth National Assembly.

The lecture was attended by at least 40 members-elect of the lower chamber from Oyo,

Benue, Lagos, Niger, Yobe, Bornu and Ondo States alongside the governor-elect of Yobe state, Mallam Mala Buni.

Even though his decision to contest contravenes the position of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and presidency, Bago said his loyalty to President Muhammadu Buhari and the APC “is not in doubt. The loyalty will work in his favour to clinch the seat.”

Bago, currently Chairman of the House Committee on Maritime Safety from Niger State, claimed that his decision to contest “is not against the position of the APC. I am a loyal member. I

am loyal to President Muhammadu Buhari. My mission is to ensure that the executive arm gets the required support that will help sharp the policies of the federal government. “I joined the race for the office of the Speaker of the House of Representatives for a strategic reason. We are only providing an alternative to the choice of the party and that is what we are doing.

“We are very loyal to the party, we are loyal to the President but we are providing an alternative to the choice of the party because we are sure we will be given opportunity to represent the party as the Speaker.”

Okun People Condemn Herdsmen Killings

APAS Canvasses National Summit on Suicide

The Okun Development Agency (ODA) has condemned the activities of Fulani herdsmen, who had been “emboldened by the tacit support they seem to enjoy from the authorities as they unleash mayhem on their host communities.”

The ODA, an umbrella sociocultural organisation of Okun people, condemned the killing in a statement by its National President, Mr. Femi Mokikan.

Mokikan revealed that their people have completely abandoned their farms for fear of attack by herdsmen who “deliberately march their herds of cow into people’s farms and you dare not challenge them.”

According to him, this is as a result of the state government’s invitation to the herdsmen. “Some came with their cattle, some with nothing, forcing one to suspect other intentions.”

Continuing that the severity of the herdsmen challenge should not be underestimated, he said that many people in the six local governments that Okun are found have paid the ultimate price at the hands of herdsmen.

Kayode Fasua

Thestatementdetailedhowherdsmen deliberately direct their cattle to destroy food crops both mature and immature, even going as far as bringing down walled farms.

The herdsmen also allegedly rape women in the presence of their husbands who are subsequently hackedtodeathiftheyputupafight.

“They have now added a new dimension. They not only kill, they now severe the head of the victim.

This was what befell Mr. Ariyo Aina,” the statement said, detailing the latest occurrence that prompted outcry.

ODA bemoaned the fact that despite several complaints to the state government, there has been little response.

The body suggested ways out of the current situation. “Now that it has been confirmed that the lifestyle of cattle has changed from eating grass to eating yam, cassava, maize and other food crops, matured or not, we believe that we can all together work out a mutually beneficial solution that will give all a win-win outcome and preserve the lives of the farmers in these communities.”

The International Director of Africa Project Against Suicide (APAS), Pastor Honey Olawale, has called for an urgent national summit, to discuss the rising wave of suicide cases across the country.

Olawale’s APAS, which has just rounded off a one-year-long, continental campaign against suicide in Africa, said it was particularly pained at the resurgence of suicide cases in some Nigerian communities.

Only two weeks ago, a popular gospel singer, Michael Arowosaiye, hanged himself in Abuja, while in the same Abuja, another cleric from the Lord Chosen Church, also committed suicide.

The pastor had left behind a suicide note, complaining of some lingering financial difficulties. But in a statement yesterday, Olawale said, “A national emergency should be declared along this line.”

According to him, a concerted effort is needed to tackle this menace, noting that APAS has profiled that about 10 suicide cases were reported across the country within

72hours.

He said, “All hands must be on deck, as we discuss the way forward. We need the clerics, singers, politicians, civil servants and the general populace. You must be your neighbour’s keeper; always check on the people around you, send messages on social media and pay attention to what people write on the social media.”

Referring to the recent death of Arowosaiye, Olawale said it was one suicide “too many; if someone had paid attention, this would have not happened.

Someone neglected his calls and even refused to read his chats when he needed help desperately, but after he committed suicide, that person started crying.

“As far as Africa Project Against Suicide is concerned, we have arranged a massive conference that will involve people from all walks of life; we will converge on the Cyprian Ekwensi centre for Arts and Culture, Abuja, on the 30th of July, to discuss an emergency national action against suicide. We are expecting singers, politicians, teachers etc.

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SUNDAYSPORTS Valencia Shock Barcelona 2-1 in Copa Final

Edited by Demola Ojo Email: demola.ojo@thisdaylive.com

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ionel Messi scored but was powerless to prevent FC Barcelona from losing 2-1 to Valencia in the Copa del Rey final at Estadio Benito Vilamarin yesterday evening.

Valencia started on the front foot and Rodrigo missed an absolute sitter in the fifth minute.

Clement Lenglet was caught napping by Kevin Gameiro before the latter played in his strike partner, who left Jasper Cillessen for dead and only had the goal at his mercy but for a goal-line block by Gerard Pique.

Lionel Messi nearly scored in the 18th minute. The forward made his first real contribution of the final, bursting into Los Ches’ penalty area and hitting a low drive that ended up going out for a corner following a desperate block from Gabriel Paulista.

Three minutes later, Valencia drew first blood. The offside flag stayed down as Jose Luis Gaya received a long ball from Francis Coquelin from deep before the left-back sent it low to Gameiro, who made no mistake with an unstoppable finish past Cillessen.

Rodrigo doubled Los Ches’ lead in the 33rd minute.

Dani Parejo left his marker for dead in midfield and played a brilliant through ball to the pacy Carlos Soler, who beat Alba for speed before crossing for the grateful Rodrigo to head home from a couple of yards out.

Valencia shot-stopper Jaume Domenech then had to be at his best to keep out Messi on the stroke of half-time as the La Liga champions went in to the break trailing 2-0.

Barca coach Valverde reacted to the

two-goal deficit by conducting a double substitution just before the second half, bringing on Malcom for Nelson Semedo and Arturo Vidal for Arthur.

Immediately after the interval, Rodrigo created a chance for himself, but his low shot was too weak and comfortably collected by Cillessen as a result.

Goncalo Guedes then came close in the 49th minute.

The winger played a quick one-two with Rodrigo before unleashing a powerful shot that went just wide of Cillessen’s right-hand post.

Messi hit the post in the 57th minute.

Malcom held the ball up for his legendary teammate to break into the Valencia box and hit a looped effort over Domenech only to hit the woodwork and for the ball to bounce clear only as far out as Vidal who scuffed his effort high and wide of goal.

Gerard Pique almost got himself on the scoresheet in the 71st minute. Malcom left Gaya for dead before bursting clear and playing a pinpoint pass towards the centreback only for his first-time effort to go just wide of Domenech’s left post.

Two minutes later, Barca did pull a goal back courtesy of their talisman Messi. The Argentine playmaker tapped a loose ball into the back of an empty net following Domenech’s save from Lenglet’s header for his 10th goal in five Copa del Rey finals.

But in the end, Valencia held on to their slender one-goal advantage and prevented Barca from claiming a fifth Copa del Rey crown in a row.

Messi scored his 28th goal against Valencia in all competitions but it was not enough

Bahraini Wins 2019 Okpekpe 10km Road Race Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

In what points to a departure from East African domination of the annual Okpekpe 10km Road Race in Benin City, this year’s edition saw a Bahraini, Fikadu Dawit, winning the male category with a time of 29.03 minutes.

Dawit beat two East Africans, Barechanu Tsegu and John Lotiang, of Ethiopia and Kenya who finished in a time of 29:04 and 29:17 minutes respectively.

However, the East Africans completed a clean sweep of the female category.

Sheila Chalangat from Kenya took the first position with a time of 33:14 minutes, while Tuitoak Jepchirchir also of Kenya and Kasegn Asefa of Ethiopia, returned with a time of 33:18 and 33:31 to emerge second and third respectively.

Edo State Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu, and Secretary to the State Government, Osarodion Ogie, ran alongside other government officials as well as other stalwarts of the All Progressives Congress in the state in the VIP category.

The VIP race also had as participants, the Minister of Youth and Sports, Solomon Dalung; Managing Director, THISDAY, Mr. Eniola Bello; Chairman, Wells Charlton Hotel and Apartments, Abuja, Capt. Hosa Okunbo, among others.

While the first VP race that included the deputy governor took off at 8:45, that of the APC race, with the party’s national chairman Adams Oshiomhole participating, took off at 9:30.

Delivering an address, Oshiomhole, a former governor of the state, thanked the current governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, and the organisers of the Okpekpe 10 km road race for sustaining a tradition that has lasted seven years.

Oshiomhole said what the people of the community need is neither tears nor sympathy but what would impact on their lives positively.

The former governor further enjoined indigenes of Okpekpe to take advantage of the race to engage in exercise as it is cheaper than drugs.

He further urged them to use the yearly event to know who their true friends are adding that their true friends are those who visit them annually and not those who come every four years to seek for their votes and after which abandon them to their fate.

Also, the Minister of Youths and Sports Development, Solomon Dalung, commended Oshiomhole for translating his dream into reality.

Fikadu Dawit

Dalung said the presidency is happy that the Okpekpe road race has come to stay, noting that in no distant time, the community will play host to the world.

He further noted that this year’s event has met the international standards.

On his part, Governor Godwin Obaseki whose welcome address was delivered by the Secretary to the Edo State Government (SSG), Osarodion Ogie Esq., said the state will always provide the

needed facilities for the yearly event to thrive.

He said the dream of seven years ago was the dream of one man, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, to the extent that “today, we have athletes who come here to compete in the event,� adding that his government will sustain the race.

However, the crisis rocking the Edo chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), took the shine off the biggest annual athletic event in Nigeria.

Flying Eagles Arrive Bielsko-Biala for USA Nigeria’s U20 team arrived the city of BielskoBiala in southern Poland yesterday morning, for their second game of the FIFA U20 World Cup against the United States of America taking place tomorrow evening. “We are here in Bielsko-Biala for business. It was great that we were able to convert the chances we had against Qatar and start our campaign on a brilliant note. “Kudos to the boys. But the competition has just started and we must now take it one match at a time. Victory over USA will guarantee us a place

in the knock-out stage and that is what will go for,� Head Coach Paul Aigbogun told thenff.com.

Goals by Maxwell Effiom, Henry Offia, Ayotomiwa Dele-Bashiru and Aliu Salawudeen earned Nigeria a comfortable win over Qatar in Tychy on Friday, and a win over USA (who lost 1-2 to Ukraine same day) on Monday would see the Flying Eagles assured of a place in the Round of 16.

Bielsko-Biala will also host the Flying Eagles’ final match of the group phase against Ukraine on Thursday. Nigeria’s delegation is staying at the Qubus Hotel in Bielsko-Biala.

Ladipo, Onigbinde Pay Tribute to Thunder Balogun’s Wife The President-General of the Nigeria Football Supporters Club, Dr. Rafiu Ladipo, and the former chief coach of the Super Eagles, Adegboye Onigbinde, have extolled the virtues of the wife of Nigeria’s football legend, Teslim ‘Thunder’ Balogun, Alhaja Mulikat as the family celebrates her 21 years memorial.

Ladipo, said, Alhaja Mulikat was indirectly responsible for the great contributions and indelible mark her husband made to the development of football in Nigeria. “It was Alhaja Mulikat, an astute football lover that convinced Teslim Balogun to return to Nigeria from England where ‘Thunder’ was playing as the first Nigerian to sign a club deal to play in the English league. He was a player of Queens Park Rangers and it was the late Premier of Western Nigeria, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, that asked her to persuade her husband to return to Nigeria so as to play for Western Rovers in the prestigious Challenge Cup. “She didn’t just ask him to return, when Thunder Balogun started playing for the national team, she was present in all the games her husband played for the country, to give her massive support. “If there were top decisions made by Teslim Balogun that lifted him to become one of Nigeria’s greatest football players of all time, they were due to the influence of his wife who stood firmly by him with humour, humility and discipline.�

Chief Adegboye Onigbinde, who was a close family friend to the late Teslim Balogun said that Alhaja Mulikat was a great asset to Nigeria as a nation as she motivated her husband to achieve greatness for the country. “Alhaja Mulikat, accompanied her husband to all the training sessions he was involved in when Thunder returned to Nigeria. She was always there to quietly point out areas where her husband didn’t do well in training and this helped tremendously during competitive games.�

Onigbinde noted that, if wives of present day Nigerian footballers give the kind of supports Alhaja Mulikat gave to Thunder Balogun during his active years as a footballer, such players would definitely be better professionals.

Sunday May 26, 2019

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MISSILE Marafa to APC “As we all know, the APC was unable to conduct primaries in Zamfara State.

With this, lesson has been served that only strict adherence to the rule of law and due process will take the country to the next level, as being advocated

by President Muhammadu Buhari.” – Chairman of the Senate Committee on Petroleum (Downstream), Senator Kabiru Marafa (APC, Zamfara) reacting to the Supreme Court judgement that sacked all APC elected officials in Zamfara.

SIMONKOLAWOLE SIMONKOLAWOLELIVE!

simon.kolawole@thisdaylive.com, sms: 0805 500 1961

Mr President, May We Discuss Your Cabinet?

Y

our Excellency, I want to seize this opportunity to wish you the best of the Ramadan season as you prepare to be inaugurated for your second term in office. May the lessons of Ramadan — especially the aspects of sacrifice and service to God and humankind — guide your next steps as the leader of this potentially great country called Nigeria. I have many complaints about your first four years in office, some of which I have written about in this space, but I would rather let the past be gone and hope for a new chapter as you renew your mandate on May 29. But I also have many things to say ahead of the next four years, some of which I will be writing about in the coming weeks.

Can we first talk about your ministers, Mr President? Before I proceed, I have a sad story to tell you. I was a fierce supporter of the candidature of Gen. Olusegun Obasanjo at the dawn of this democratic era in 1999. I campaigned for him in my little corner, believing that he had the capacity and the goodwill to take Nigeria to the right place. I believed he was not corrupt, and was further energised by his promise to fight graft if he was elected into office. I was also fascinated that he could keep the military guys in check so that we would consolidate our new experience of democracy. I voted for him even though my political sympathies were elsewhere.

On his inauguration at the Eagle Square on May 29, 1999, Obasanjo delivered a powerful speech, promising to fight corruption. At some point he stamped his foot on the platform to demonstrate his determination. He said it would no longer be “business as usual”. Good God, I was over the moon! I said finally, Nigeria was going somewhere after the devastating years of Gen. Sani Abacha. To tell the truth, Your Excellency, police officers stopped collecting their N20 tribute from commercial bus drivers at checkpoints. Civil servants started resuming work at 8am. Everybody seemed to take Obasanjo seriously. It definitely looked like the dawn of a new era. But it was short-lived.

As soon as Obasanjo appointed his first cabinet and named Chief Tony Anenih as the minister of works, my heart broke into pieces. That singular gesture proved to me that Obasanjo was joking about fighting corruption. At that point, I gave up on Obasanjo. It was not about Anenih per se, but I tend to analyse people’s intentions by their actions. It was a foreboding signal. If Obasanjo had made Anenih special adviser on political affairs or minister of cooperation in Africa, I would not have minded. But ministry of works is too central for any government to use for political patronage, so I immediately understood Obasanjo’s direction. It was a sad story. It broke my spirit.

Now, Mr President, let me say here that I will pre-judge your second term by the ministerial appointments you make after your inauguration.

First, I have asked my fasting Muslim friends to help pray that we would not wait for another six months for a cabinet and they have assured me that they would spare no “rakat” in doing that.

You are aware your delay in naming a cabinet in 2015 did no favours to the economy. I would even say we are yet to recover from the damage this inflicted on the system. That period was so critical to the repair of many economic fundamentals that would later shape the exchange rate and worsen inflation, unemployment and poverty.

Mr President, I will now be straightforward: if you retain certain ministers, I will finally give

Buhari up on your government. I have seen enough reasons to lose faith but there is this never-say-die spirit that keeps me hoping even when it does not make sense. That is in my DNA. I have, however, been gravely worried that most of the ministers have been saying quietly that they are returning. In fact, I am told more than half of your cabinet will be re-appointed. I hope this is a joke, Mr President. Tell me it’s a joke, Mr President. Assure me, Mr President, that this is a joke. This is a cabinet you should have dissolved years ago! How on earth would they be retained? Say it ain’t so, Mr President.

Your Excellency, if you retain Mallam Abubakar Malami as your minister of justice and attorney-general of the federation, I will finally give up on you. It will show that you are not getting the memo or there is something you are not telling us. One of the most important cabinet positions in a civilised society is that of the attorney-general. In fact, that is the only ministerial position mentioned in the constitution.

The position is too critical and too powerful to be toyed with. A president will never get sound and frank legal advice if the attorney-general prostrates to greet him. The position requires a cerebral and principled appointee. I will leave it at that.

Mr President, if you appoint election losers as ministers, then I will surrender. One of them is Senator Abiola Ajimobi, the “constituted authority” in Oyo state who lost his bid to return to the senate after spending eight years as governor.

Tell me he is not on your list, Mr President. Of course, we know Alhaji Adebayo Shittu will not return as minister. Or will he? No, Mr President, you won’t do that to Nigeria. Neither would you reward Alhaji Abdulaziz Yari with a ministerial appointment after his election as a senator from Zamfara west was annulled by the Supreme Court. I know you have the power to appoint whoever you want, but use that power wisely.

I hope, Your Excellency, that we are not going to see Chief Audu Ogbeh in your cabinet again.

If you love him so much, you can send him as ambassador to Thailand so that he can go and regale Thais with his tale that the Asian country is experiencing increasing unemployment because of the “rice revolution” in Nigeria. Ogbeh is very good at embarrassing the country at the slightest opportunity. I hope never to see Solomon Dalung at FEC meetings again, and this has nothing to do with his beret. To cut a long list short, Mr President, if you return more than five ministers, you will be sending a depressing

message to Nigerians about your direction in the next four years.

Beyond the issue of individuals to be appointed, Your Excellency, is the need to bring in relevant people into the cabinet to meet the glaring skill deficiency. I cannot believe that you have never appointed an advanced and experienced economist as minister since you came to office. I just cannot believe it — not at a time of our worst economic crisis in decades. We have a ministerial team full of lawyers and not one economist. I don’t understand. This is a great opportunity for you to address the glaring deficiencies in your appointments. It also affords you a golden chance to correct the lopsidedness against some sections, including women and youth.

Mr President, what is keeping your administration going is not the performance of your team but rather the enduring faith in you and the hope that you will eventually come good. But you are as good as the people you assemble to assist you. If he you had IOUs in the first term, you have either discharged them or they have expired. It is now time to prove the growing army of critics and doubters wrong and to reassure the enduring believers that you are on top of your game. You need a brand new team of those whose competence is not in doubt and those who have fire in their bellies.

Trust me, Mr President: most of your ministers are fatigued and have nothing more to offer.

If you are bent on doing favours, there are some ministerial slots you cannot afford to joke with.

I list them: finance, education, health, defence, petroleum, power, attorney-general, works and interior. Long after you have left the stage, those are the things Nigerians will remember you for. A strong economic team (in which there are indeed economists), a revamped education system, a fit health sector, an infrastructural revolution, an efficient petroleum sector and massively improved internal security will change the fortune of Nigerians if you make them your priorities. All ministers are important, but some are more important than the others.

Finally, Mr President, you must now take your cabinet more seriously. Your “non interference” philosophy, which you take as a strength, is actually a weakness. It is your government. You cannot afford to be aloof! Where is monitoring and evaluation? It would make sense if you fire ministers once in a while. The joke in town is that you are the best employer of labour: you never fire anyone, no matter how woefully they perform! Non-interference has given many ministers the cover to be doing things at odds with the advertised values of your administration, secure in the faith that no one is watching and no one will be punished. Not good, Mr President, not good.

Lest I forget, Mr President, can we have a new way of doing things at the federal executive council? All I hear every Wednesday is that a contract has been awarded to buy dustbins for Damaturu or clear the drainage in Akungba.

That is a bit disgusting. Governance is serious business. There should be more to FEC than contract awards. They should be discussing serious policy issues. Let Nigerians look forward to ministerial briefings that will give them confidence that the country is in safe hands and that a great future is loading. All these contract talks are banal. It has been so since 1999. We need a new direction, Your Excellency. Enough of these meaningless routines!

Meanwhile, until my next letter, please accept, Mr President, the assurances of my best wishes.

And Four Other Things…

ZAMFARA ZEROS In the end, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has lost it all in Zamfara state. After months of crises and legal battles, the Supreme Court has declared that the party did not hold primaries in the state and therefore was not eligible to participate in the general election. All its results in the house of assembly, governorship, house of reps and senate polls were nullified.

Candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) instantly became the beneficiaries.

I don’t like to gloat but I just cannot hold myself from celebrating that fact that Alhaji Abdulaziz Yari, the outgoing governor, will not enjoy the retirement benefit of becoming a senator after mismanaging Zamfara for eight years. Sweet.

OIL THEFT Question: describe in not more than two words why crude oil is $70 a barrel but the benefits to the federation account are not commensurate. Answer: oil theft. In April 2012, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, then minister of finance, raised the alarm that Nigeria was losing about 400,000 barrels per day to crude oil theft (usually perpetrated with the connivance of security agencies and government officials), the value of which was $1 billion daily. It was one of the reasons we couldn’t build massive forex reserves despite high oil prices. All indications are that oil theft is back in full swing — meaning the more things seem to change, the more they remain the same. Slippery.

FULANI RADIO A few days after former President Olusegun Obasanjo spoke about “West African fulanisation” — which many have taken the liberty to interpret as they wish — the last thing you would expect from the federal government is to announce the establishment of a radio station for the Fulani as “a vehicle for social mobilisation and education”. No matter how well-intentioned, this is difficult to justify in a multi-ethnic society where there is already an endemic suspicion that there is a “Fulani agenda”. Whose brainwave is the radio idea? Will there be radio stations for other ethnic groups as well — in the spirit of balance? Are radio stations not better left to the private sector? Baffling.

MYTH BUSTER “LOL” used to mean “Lots of Love” in the heyday of SMS, but it soon transformed to “Laugh out Loud” and “Laughing out Loud” when instant messaging apps such as BBM and WhatsApp took the centre stage. There is a joke that a girl sent this message to her ex-boyfriend: “Heard you lost your mum. Take heart. LOL.” You can guess how the boy interpreted it! But have you been told recently by some Christian fundamentalists that LOL actually means “Lucifer Our Lord”? If you believe that, then you could as well believe that SWAG means “Satan’s Wishes Are Granted”, YOLO means “Youth Obeying Lucifer’s Orders”, and “ROFL” means “Rise, Our Father Lucifer”. LOL.

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