SUNDAY 15TH JUNE 2025

Regulatory Forbearance: CBN Directs First Bank, Others to Suspend Dividend Payments, Bonuses

Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja

L-R: Former Minister of Foreign Affairs, High Chief Tom Ikimi, Representatives of Lagos State

Trump Considers Inclusion of Nigeria, 35 Other Countries on Travel Ban List

African nations constitute nearly 70% of new line-up US gives affected countries 60 days to meet new benchmarks

STRATEGIC CONSULTATION…

Governor

Poverty Alleviation, Mrs. Bola Dada; Celebrant, Dame Marie Fatayi-Williams; Catholic Archbishop of Lagos, Most Reverend Alfred Adewale Martins; Husband to the celebrant, Dr. Allan Fatayi-Williams; Wife of Lagos State Governor, Dr Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu; and Matriarch of the Ikimi family, Mrs. Grace Esohe Conde, during the thanksgiving mass service of the 70th birthday celebration for Mrs. Fatayi-Williams at the Catholic Church of the Assumption Falomo, Ikoyi, Lagos...weekend ABIODUN AJALA

L-R: Former Governor of Ekiti State, Mr. Ayodele Fayose; Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Mr. Nyesom Wike; President Bola Ahmed Tinubu; former Governor of Benue State, Dr. Samuel Ortom; and former Governor of Abia State, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, after a meeting with the president at the Presidential Villa, Abuja…yesterday.

Damagum, Anyanwu to Lose Positions in PDP NWC as Diri’s Committee Swaps Offices Among States

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

Barring any unforeseen changes, the Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri-led Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) power-sharing committee has recommended the swapping of positions in the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) among the states, effectively preventing the Acting National Chairman of the PDP, Ambassador Illya Damagum; the National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu and other members of the NWC from retaining their current positions, THISDAY’s investigation has learnt.

The party will hold its National Convention from August 28 to 30, 2025 in Kano, where a new national chairman and other members of the NWC will emerge.

However, THISDAY gathered that the recommendations, which will be ratified at the June 30 National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the party, sustained the current zoning of the offices of the NWC among the six geopolitical zones to enable each

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The United States is currently weighing the restriction of entry to citizens of an additional 36 countries, including Nigeria, in what would be a significant expansion of the travel ban announced by President Donald Trump’s administration early this month.

A State Department memo reviewed by The Washington Post indicated that among the new list of countries that could face visa bans or other restrictions are 25 African nations, constituting roughly 70 per cent, according to a THISDAY assessment.

They also include so-called significant US partners such as Egypt and Djibouti, plus countries in the Caribbean, Central Asia and several Pacific Island nations.

A State Department spokesperson

to be herdsmen who invaded Yelewata and Daudu communities in Guma Local Government Area (LGA) of Benue State.

This latest attack, which lasted from Friday night till the early hours of yesterday, came barely 48 hours after two communities - Mtswenem and Akondotyough Bawa in Makurdi LGA were attacked and 25 people killed.

Yelwata is a border town between Nasarawa and Benue states and less than 40 minutes' drive from Makurdi, the state capital.

A resident of Yelewata town, who did not want his name in print, said the attackers invaded the community around 10 p.m. on Friday and operated unchallenged till the early hours of yesterday.

According to him, the invaders stormed Yelewata in their numbers from two fronts, overpowered the youths and the police personnel who stood up against them and opened fire on defenceless Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) who were taking refuge in market stalls and the community members.

While the attack on Yelewata was ongoing, another set of marauders besieged Daudu, in the same Guma LGA.

limits (SOL) — part of a broader transitional arrangement by the apex bank to stabilise the banking industry following macroeconomic shocks and sector-wide restructuring.

According to the CBN circular, the suspension will remain until the apex bank can independently verify the capital adequacy of the banks.

“This temporary suspension is until such a time as the regulatory

zone to retain the positions it currently occupies.

However, the committee recommended the swapping of offices of the NWC among the states so that no state will retain the office it currently occupies.

Faced with the emerging development, the Acting National Chairman of the PDP, Damagum, is said to be weighing several options on his political future, including possible defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC) to contest the 2027 governorship election in Yobe State as it has become obvious that no PDP NWC member will return to his present office at the National Convention, but could contest for another position.

THISDAY gathered from a source privy to the recommendations of the Diri committee that while each of the six geographical zones will retain the current offices it occupies, the positions will be swapped among the states within each zone.

In the committee's preliminary report that is yet to be adopted by the relevant organs of the party, the

said the agency would not comment on internal deliberations or communications.

The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment, the report said.

The move would mark another escalation in the Trump administration’s aggressive crackdown on immigration, a major plank during his campaign for the presidency.

The memo, which was signed by Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, and sent to US diplomats who work with the countries yesterday, said the governments of listed nations were being given 60 days to meet new benchmarks and requirements established by the State Department. It set a deadline of 8 a.m. Wednesday for them to provide an initial action plan for meeting the requirements.

However, they reportedly met strong resistance from the youths and security personnel, leading to the unfortunate death of some of the security personnel.

A community leader in Yelewata and former acting Chairman of the Benue State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Mr. Matthew Mnyan, who held back emotions as he spoke, said it was another dark day for the people of Yelewata, Daudu, Guma LGA, and the entire state.

He said: “It started last night at about 11 pm when Fulani terrorists came from the Western part of the Yelewata and started shooting. So, the policemen and young people who were there tried to engage them. Suddenly, another group came from the Eastern part of the community, and they overran those trying to resist them.

“They killed our people, poured petrol on the stalls in the market, and burnt them.

“As of now, from the names they are putting together, and the number of families and people that were burnt and killed are running to over 200 now. They killed and burnt people in the houses. They will pour petrol and burn the whole place where people are sleeping. We had a family of 15,

forbearance is fully exited and the banks’ capital adequacy and provisioning levels are independently verified to be fully compliant with prevailing standards.

“This supervisory measure is intended to ensure that internal resources are retained to meet existing and future obligations and to support the orderly restoration of sound prudential positions,” the

North Central zone will occupy the office of the national chairman that was originally zoned to it in the 2021 national convention.

However, it will not be necessarily zoned to Benue State but to all the states of the North Central geopolitical zone. Consequently, Damagum is said to be considering defecting to the APC to contest for the governor of Yobe State.

According to sources in Damagum's Wadata Plaza PDP office in Wuse, Abuja, the Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni is dangling the offer of APC governorship ticket to him if he defects to the ruling party.

Buni is said to be Damagum 's close friend.

However, another source within the NWC of PDP has dismissed the defection rumour, stating that Damagum's sour relationship with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, will truncate his governorship ambition on the APC platform. ''We are aware of the defection plot but he will be rubbished by Wike, who will mobilise against him. The FCT minister is very powerful in APC," the source said.

The source stated that Damagum is yet to make up his mind. He, however, ruled out his return as the substantive national chairman of the party. The source also confirmed that the position has been returned to the North-central zone, but not particularly to Benue State.

NiMet Predicts Three-day Thunderstorms, Rain

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has predicted thundery and rainy weather activities from yesterday to Monday across Nigeria.

NiMet’s weather outlook released on Friday in Abuja envisaged early morning thunderstorms yesterday in parts of Taraba, Kebbi, Zamfara, Kaduna, and Adamawa states in the northern region.

According to it, thunderstorms with rains are anticipated in parts of Kebbi, Taraba, Zamfara, Borno, Kaduna, Sokoto, Gombe, and Bauchi

The memo identified varied benchmarks that, in the administration’s estimation, these countries were failing to meet.

Some countries had “no competent or cooperative central government authority to produce reliable identity documents or other civil documents,” or they suffered from “widespread government fraud.”

Others had large numbers of citizens who overstayed their visas in the United States, the memo said.

Other reasons included the availability of citizenship by monetary investment without a requirement of residency and claims of “antisemitic and anti-American activity in the United States” by people from those countries.

The memo also stated that if a country was willing to accept thirdcountry nationals who were removed

some families of 12, men with their two wives, and children, and every one of them burnt. It is a terrible sight.

“I have asked them to search for the families and put the names together because some have been burned to ashes. Those who were rushed to the hospital were up to 46. So far, I learnt that about 20 have died and we are still putting the reports together.”

“For over one week we received reports from Nasarawa State that the terrorists planned to attack Yelewata, Ukoho, Ortese, Yogbo, and Daudu. So, they are moving to attack these places simultaneously.

“Fortunately, that same day, the ones at Daudu were dislodged, and we learnt five soldiers and police personnel were killed sadly. From the information I received, I think one of them was of the rank of a Captain.

“We learnt more than 300 terrorists were camped close to Daudu.

“It is heartbreaking; everybody is aware that the people want to take over Benue State. There are no two ways about it. They only want to grab the land.

“If you go to the east side of Yelewata, Fulanis have taken over the land and given it to some of their people to be farming. And they do

circular said.

The apex bank explained that it would continue to monitor compliance and work closely with affected institutions, adding that the move was designed to ensure that internal capital is retained to meet obligations and support a return to sound prudential footing.

The affected Deposit Money Banks (DMBs) are expected to comply fully

states later in the day.

“In the North-central region, early morning thunderstorms are expected over parts of Benue, Plateau, Niger, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and Nasarawa states.

“Later in the day, thunderstorms with rains are anticipated over parts of the Federal Capital Territory, Niger, Nasarawa, Benue, Kwara, Kogi, and Plateau states.

“In the Southern region, the cloudy atmosphere is expected with chances of morning rains over parts of Enugu,

from the United States or enter a “safe third country” agreement, it could mitigate other concerns. It was not immediately clear when the proposed travel restrictions would be enforced if the demands were not met, The Washington Post's report said.

Apart from Nigeria, other countries facing scrutiny in the memo include: Angola; Antigua and Barbuda; Benin; Bhutan; Burkina Faso; Cabo Verde; Cambodia; Cameroon; Democratic Republic of Congo; Djibouti; Dominica; Ethiopia; Egypt; Gabon and Gambia.

Others include: Ghana; Ivory Coast; Kyrgyzstan; Liberia; Malawi; Mauritania; Niger; Saint Kitts and Nevis; Saint Lucia; Sao Tome and Principe; Senegal; South Sudan; Syria; Tanzania; Tonga; Tuvalu; Uganda; Vanuatu; Zambia; and Zimbabwe.

The list represents a significant

not want anybody to go there. So, this is a planned issue that is being executed. It was a coordinated and well-organised attack, which is why some came from the eastern part and some from the western part to execute the attack to make sure they bring the place down,” he explained.

Also, the President of the Association of United Farmers Benue Valley (AUFBV), Chief Dennis Gbongbon who also lamented the carnage, blamed it on those he called “Lakurawa bandits.”

Gbongbon said the association received the report of “the very disturbing security threat to Tiv farmers in Yelewata community of Guma LGA, as suspected Lakurawa bandits and herders killed over 62 IDPs, and farmers and houses were burnt with families beyond imagination.

Reacting, the Special Adviser to the Benue State Governor on Internal Security, Chief Joseph Har, who confirmed the development, said: “I cannot give an exact account of it because I am not there physically, but I am aware that this ugly thing happened yesterday in Yelwata and at the back of Daudu. They were two different attacks. I cannot give the exact numbers because I do not have the details.”

with the new directive and adopt prudent capital management practices during this period.

This is not the first time the CBN has issued a regulatory forbearance in the financial sector.

Following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, the CBN on May 27, 2020, issued a regulatory forbearance to All Other Financial Institutions (OFIs), directed all DMBs

Ebonyi, Cross River, Lagos, Akwa Ibom, Rivers, and Bayelsa states,” it said.

NiMet predicted isolated thunderstorms with rains over parts of Imo, Enugu, Abia, Ebonyi, Anambra, Ondo, Oyo, Osun, Ogun, Ekiti, Edo, Delta, Cross River, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, and Rivers states later in the day.

The agency anticipated prospects of morning thunderstorms on Sunday over parts of Kaduna, Kebbi, Adamawa, and Taraba states in the northern region.

It envisaged thunderstorms with rain over parts of Taraba, Adamawa,

expansion of a presidential proclamation issued June 4, when the US fully restricted the entry of individuals from Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen.

The US also had partially restricted the entry of travellers from Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan and Venezuela under that order.

Democrats and other critics of the Trump’s administration have described its efforts to issue blanket travel bans on selected nations as xenophobic and bigoted, pointing to President Trump’s efforts to block travel from Muslim-majority nations in his first term and the high number of African and Caribbean nations targeted during this term.

Early in his first term, Trump

A spokesperson for Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), Lt. Zubair Ahmad, said he was still verifying the incident and promised to revert.

Confirming the attacks, Benue State Police Command Public Relations Officer, DSP, Udeme Edet, said some of the attackers also lost their lives during the attack.

She said: “According to our information, it happened in the early hours of today (Saturday) when suspected bandits invaded Yelwata town.

“The police and tactical teams posted to the town and reinforcement responded swiftly to the attack and engaged the attackers in a fierce exchange and unfortunately some of the attackers were killed in the process.

“But it’s with great sadness that we report that some individuals lost their lives and others sustained injuries,” she added.

The PPRO, who did not give the casualty figures, said the police have not relented and assured the people of the state that they would continue in pursuit of the attackers to keep the people of the state safe.

Meanwhile, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has expressed deep

in the country to restructure loan terms and tenors to households and businesses affected by the coronavirus outbreak.

Also, in April 2022, the banking sector regulator extended interest rate forbearance on loans by another year, in a bid to ease pressure on borrowers during COVID-19 recovery.

The CBN had also in September 2023 issued a circular prohibiting

Kebbi, Kaduna, Zamfara, Gombe, and Bauchi states later in the day. NiMet anticipated patches of clouds with sunshine intervals with prospects of early morning thunderstorms likely to affect parts of Kogi, Kwara, Plateau, Niger, Nasarawa, Benue, and the Federal Capital Territory in the North-Central region.

“Later in the day, thunderstorms with rains are anticipated over parts of the Federal Capital Territory, Niger, Nasarawa, Kwara, Kogi, Benue, and Plateau states.

attempted to restrict travel from Iran, Iraq, Syria, Somalia, Sudan, Yemen and Libya. The initial version of the ban caused confusion and chaos at airports. It faced numerous legal challenges until the Supreme Court upheld the third version of it in June 2018. While the travel ban was rescinded under President Joe Biden’s administration, Trump repeatedly pledged to reinstate it on the campaign trail, insisting that it would be “bigger than before.” On Inauguration Day, the White House issued an executive order calling on US agencies, including the State Department, to look for “countries throughout the world for which vetting and screening information is so deficient as to warrant a partial or full suspension on the admission of nationals from those countries.”

anguish over the wave of deadly attacks in the state, describing it as “a national emergency that demands immediate attention and decisive action.”

In a statement yesterday, Atiku condemned the fresh spate of killings that targeted defenceless rural communities, calling for urgent intervention from both the federal government and Benue State authorities.

“I am deeply anguished and shocked by the devastating news of the fresh attacks in Benue State, where over 100 innocent lives are feared lost,” he said. “These killings, once again targeting defenceless communities, underscore the escalating insecurity crisis facing our nation.”

The former presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) said the tragedy reflects the worsening insecurity in the country and the human cost of government inaction, urging that Nigeria must pause and reflect on the “mounting human toll of this senseless violence.

“Words cannot adequately express the sorrow felt by those left widowed, orphaned, or displaced,” he added, offering prayers and condolences to the bereaved families and affected communities.

banks from using gains from forex revaluation for dividends or other capital expenditures, directing that such revaluation profits should be warehoused in a “Special Regulatory Reserve” until further notice. The apex bank followed up in March 2024, warning banks against paying dividends using forex gains, especially given the temporary and volatile nature of such windfalls.

Happy Fatherʼs Day

To every father, mentor and role model, thank you for your impact, strength and guidance.

Today, we honour the men who build legacies one day at a time.

Happy Fatherʼs Day.

SIXTY HEARTY CHEERS...

L-R: Children of the celebrant, Ose; Ilo; the celebrant, Joseph Akhigbe; his wife, Ann; and celebrant’s daughter, Josephine, during the cake cutting of Akhigbe’s 60th birthday at the Metropolitan Club, Victoria Island, Lagos…yesterday

OGUNFUYI

Coalition on Course, Train Has Since Left the Station, It's a

Mass

Movement, Atiku Tells Wike

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar yesterday faulted the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, over his comments dismissing the opposition coalition to unseat President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 general election, insisting that the coalition is on course and that the train had already left the station.

Also, the convener of the League of Northern Democrats (LND), Dr. Umar Ardo, chided the FCT minister, stating that power can still be retrieved from Tinubu despite his being in office.

Ardo wondered what President Tinubu would campaign with as his achievements in view of the hunger and the insecurity in the country.

Wike had in a scathing dismissal of opposition efforts on Friday, declared that the coalition being led by Atiku against the reelection

of President Tinubu in 2027 was doomed from inception.

The FCT minister described the alliance as dead-on-arrival, lacking unity, vision, and the political will to challenge the ruling party effectively.

But Atiku, who is the lead character in the opposition coalition against Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC), while responding through his Special Adviser on Media, Paul Ibe, said Wike needs to have a rethink.

"Tell anyone who said that the coalition is dead on arrival to go ahead and have a rethink. The coalition train has since left the station. The train is moving faster than expected. In this very week, they will hear it in the loudest voice that the train has left the station.

''What looks like being slow is deliberate because the coalition train stops at every station for members to join the train. They will certainly

Police Extend Grace Period on Enforcement of Tinted

Glass Permit to August 12

The Inspector General of Police (IG), Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, has approved an extension of the grace period for the enforcement of the Tinted Glass Permit requirement to August 12, 2025.

‎The extension, police said, comes on the heels of several concerns and feedback expressed by members of the public regarding the reactivation of the digital Tinted Glass Permit application process.

A statement issued yesterday by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, stated that: “In line with our commitment to delivering transparent, inclusive, and citizen-focused policing, the Force wishes to affirm that it has not ignored the voices of Nigerians.

“Rather, these voices have been instrumental in guiding ongoing reviews of the process to ensure it remains user-friendly, secure, and accessible to all.

“The extension of enforcement is also intended to give room for additional enhancements and refinements to the application

process, ensuring that no member of the public is unduly disadvantaged.

“The NPF is actively working to simplify and improve both the physical and contactless application options including enhanced verification mechanisms and streamlined procedures to reduce delays and eliminate undue inconveniences.”

The statement reminded the members of the public that the authorised platform for the application and renewal of the Tinted Glass Permit is accessible via a dedicated website, and urged the citizens to “report all unauthorised or hidden charges as well as extortion in the course of application or biometric capturing to the appropriate Police authorities, including via the dedicated hotline.”

”The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to public safety, digital innovation, and continuous improvement in service delivery, and appreciates the cooperation and patience of the Nigerian people as these reforms are carried out,” the statement added.

hear from the coalition organisers this week.

''The coalition train is not deadon-arrival This coalition is like the G34 group that sent the military back to the barracks,'' Atiku said.

Similarly, the convener of LND, Ardo queried those claiming that the coalition was dead, saying they

were merely daydreaming.

''When did Wike enter politics? He should learn from the masters; the coalition is far ahead of his thoughts. Mark my words, by the grace of Almighty Allah, this coalition will remove Tinubu from office.

''Come to think of it, by what

means will this government sell or campaign to the people?

“Is it that they have improved the lifestyle of the people or improved security in the country, where the farmers can't go to their farms?

"Come 2027, what will President Tinubu campaign with? Is it with

hunger everywhere or with increasing levels of insecurity in the country?

''How can such a rapacious government say that the coalition is dead? Let's wait and see. There would be no room for any propaganda this time around”, Ardo said

Falana to FG: Drop All Criminal Charges against Journalists, Government’s Critics Now

Wale Igbintade

Human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Mr. Femi Falana, has called on the federal government to immediately discontinue all criminal proceedings against journalists and citizens facing prosecution for criticising public officials.

Falana’s demand comes in the wake of President Bola Tinubu’s Democracy Day speech, in which the President warned against the suppression of dissenting voices in a democratic society.

In the address delivered on

June 12, President Tinubu stated that “while slander and libel must not go unaddressed, no one should suffer injustice for simply writing a negative report about me or calling me names.”

Falana, citing this as a clear endorsement of freedom of expression, urged the AttorneyGeneral of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), to act in accordance with the president’s stated position.

“In line with the commitment of the President, the AttorneyGeneral should be directed to discontinue all criminal cases

pending against journalists and other Nigerians for criticising top public officers,” Falana stated.

He stressed that democracy cannot flourish when citizens are intimidated to express dissent, especially when they exercise their rights through peaceful criticism or investigative reporting.

Falana added that aggrieved public officers should resort to civil litigation if they believe they have been defamed, rather than weaponising state power through criminal defamation charges.

“Once the criminal cases are withdrawn, public officers who

are aggrieved by any defamatory statement should be advised to file cases in civil courts,” he said. The senior advocate’s statement underscores growing concerns among civil society groups about the misuse of criminal charges—such as cyberstalking and criminal defamation—to harass journalists, whistleblowers, and human rights activists. Several journalists across the country are currently facing prosecution under controversial provisions of the Cybercrimes Act and other laws, often for stories that expose alleged misconduct by officials.

Supreme Court Debunks Allegations of Justice’s Political Trip to Edo

The Supreme Court has refuted allegations circulating on social media and certain online platforms that a Justice of the apex court travelled to Benin City for reasons related to a political case.

In a statement signed by the Director of Information and Public Relations, Dr. Festus Akande, yesterday, the Supreme Court clarified that the Justice in question had travelled to Benin City on Thursday, June 12, 2025, solely to attend the funeral rites of the late mother of Mr. Hannibal Uwaifo, a prominent member of the legal profession and former President of the

African Bar Association.

The statement emphasised that the trip was strictly personal, with the Justice having sought and received prior approval from the Chief Justice of Nigeria.

“This private visit was strictly for the purposes of condolence and bereavement as is customary and humane,” the statement noted.

The statement further added that the events attended were limited to a funeral service at St. Matthew’s Catholic Church and a service of songs, after which the Justice returned to his hotel without attending any further gatherings or receptions.

The court categorically denied

the justice’s involvement in political meetings or any attempts to influence judicial proceedings.

“Honourable justice neither attended any political meeting nor solicited for inclusion on any panel as falsely alleged,” the statement explained.

The Supreme Court also dismissed the photograph being circulated as evidence of the alleged misconduct stating, “The image being circulated purportedly as evidence merely shows the Justice returning alone to his hotel, hardly a basis for the sensational claims being peddled”.

Akande condemned the baseless and malicious

narratives, warning that such actions undermine the judiciary’s credibility and public confidence.

The court urged the public and commentators on judicial matters to seek clarification through official channels rather than spreading unfounded allegations.

Reaffirming its commitment to upholding the rule of law, the Supreme Court called for discretion and responsibility in public discourse, particularly concerning matters of judicial integrity.

“The judiciary will remain steadfast in its duties and will not be swayed by deliberate attempts to tarnish its reputation,” the statement added.

Linus Aleke in Abuja

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

Alex Enumah in Abuja

KUNLE

ALL EYES ON HIGHER RETURNS…

L-R: Independent Non-Executive Director, UAC of Nigeria Plc, Amina Muhtar; Independent Non-Executive Director, Suzanne Iroche; Company Secretary/Group General Counsel, Ayomipo Wey; Chairman/Non-Executive Director, Mr. Khalifa Biobaku; Independent Non-Executive Director, Mr. Karl Toriola; and Independent Non-Executive Director, Obi James, at the Annual General Meeting of the company in Lagos…recently

Nigeria Condemns Israel's Preemptive Attacks on

Iran, Urges Restraint Amid Escalating Conflict

UK moves warplanes to Middle East US-Iran nuclear talks in Oman cancelled

The federal government has condemned what it described as Israel’s "preemptive strike” on Iran, saying the action has dangerously escalated the conflicts between the two nations.

This is as the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Keir Starmer, yesterday Britain was deploying fighter jets and other “assets” to the Middle East amid an escalating conflict between Iran and Israel.

Meanwhile, a sixth round of nuclear

talks between Iran and the United States planned for the weekend has been cancelled, mediator Oman said yesterday.

In a statement issued yesterday by the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, the federal government expressed deep concern over the intensifying hostilities, which have involved sustained missile and aerial attacks between Iran and Israel.

The federal government called for an immediate end to the violence and urged both countries to show maximum

restraint.

According to the statement, continued retaliation risks not only civilian lives but also threatens to destabilise the wider Middle East, with serious consequences for international peace and economic stability.

“The government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria condemns Israel’s preemptive strike on Iran that has led to an escalation of hostilities between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the State of Israel, marked by sustained missile and aerial exchanges across

both territories.

“Nigeria expresses its grave concern and calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities and urges both parties to exercise utmost restraint in the interest of regional and global peace.

“The continued cycle of retaliation not only endangers civilian lives but threatens to plunge the broader Middle East into further instability, with implications for international security and economic development,” the ministry stated.

Reaffirming its longstanding

Soyinka to Tinubu: Probe Deaths of Dele Giwa, Kudirat Abiola, Bola Ige

Nobel laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, has urged President Bola Tinubu to immediately launch a probe into the strange circumstances that led to the deaths of some Nigerians, including the likes of Dele Giwa, Bola Ige, and Kudirat Abiola, for the sake of giving some closure to the matter.

While speaking with selected journalists in Lagos yesterday, the renowned author said some Nigerians around the world have and could provide clues to the killings.

Soyinka has been speaking on the occasion of Nigeria’s Democracy

Day, which was marked on June 12, 2025, where President Tinubu addressed the joint session of the National Assembly and awarded national honours to some of the heroes of the struggle.

While he praised the award of national honours, he, however, said there were several heroes omitted from the list, adding that he believed those honoured were a representation of the rest of the people in the struggle.

Soyinka revealed that he will be dedicating his honours to the memory of the Late Beko RansomKuti, who he described as a defender of human rights, champion of good governance, and campaigner for

democracy, who was detained and jailed several times by the Nigerian military.

He warned that no one should make light of the weight and importance of the June 12 struggle, as many people died, and many others were greatly injured by the military junta, which killed, tortured, and imprisoned Nigerians at the time.

Names of the heroes of democracy were announced by President Tinubu on Thursday, June 13, as part of the activities marking the 2025 Democracy Day celebration. Only 66 awardees were announced at the joint sitting of the National Assembly in Abuja.

Among the posthumous awardees

were a former Chief of Staff, Shehu Musa Yar’Adua; a former NEC Chairman who oversaw the 1993 elections, Prof. Humphrey Nwosu; and the wife of MKO Abiola and martyr of the June 12 struggle, Kudirat Abiola.

The president also granted a posthumous state pardon to renowned environmental activist Ken Saro-Wiwa and the rest of the Ogoni Nine, three decades after their controversial execution by the Sani Abacha-led military regime.

The nine other activists were also acknowledged for their sacrifices in the struggle for environmental justice and democratic ideals in Nigeria.

Osinbajo to Young Nigerians: Engage in Politics to Shape Nation’s Future

Segun James

Former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo has called on Nigerians, particularly Christians and young people, to actively participate in politics as a vital tool for shaping the country’s leadership and driving lasting societal transformation.

Osinbajo made the charge yesterday while delivering the keynote address at the 2nd Annual Daniel Taiwo Odukoya Memorial Lecture, held at The Fountain of Life Church in Lagos.

The event, with the theme: “The Evolving Relationship Between the Church and the Government in Nigeria,” attracted thought leaders, clergy, policymakers, and youth seeking to explore the intersection of faith and governance.

In his address, Osinbajo challenged the widespread disillusionment with politics, asserting that despite its bad reputation, politics remains the only legitimate pathway to leadership and influence.

He said: “Politics has acquired a bad name, not just in Nigeria, but across the world. But the truth is, there is no other way to influence a nation except by engaging in the political process.

“If we are not involved in choosing leaders, shaping policy, or participating in political parties, then we forfeit our right to complain when outcomes don’t reflect our values.”

Osinbajo emphasised that political involvement must be rooted in knowledge, preparation, and moral clarity.

Addressing young Nigerians

aspiring to serve in public office, he stressed the need for intellectual readiness and a deep understanding of governance.

He advised: “You must study. You must understand how things work. Read biographies, and understand healthcare, education, and economic systems, particularly in the African context.

“It’s not enough to have passion. Without preparation, you’ll produce no meaningful results.

“Many people go into politics with nothing, no plan, no knowledge, and end up achieving nothing.

Leadership demands more.”

For Christian believers, Osinbajo said: “When I speak of a Christian, I mean someone who serves not man, but God. Your service in politics or governance must reflect that.

“Christians’ lives must embody values like humility, diligence, and service.”

He drew from his personal journey, revealing that he did not own a house until age 51, and only began using a brand-new car in 1998, years after his graduation.

He further urged the church to reclaim its role as a moral compass, saying its true power lies not in prosperity, but in its moral authority.

“The gospel must not be reduced to motivational speaking or prosperity doctrine,” Osinbajo warned.

“The focus should be on giving to the poor, living with integrity, and pursuing justice. If we demand transparency from the government, the church must also be transparent and accountable.”

commitment to peaceful coexistence and diplomatic resolution of conflicts, the federal government emphasised the importance of dialogue over confrontation.

The government also called on the international community, particularly the United Nations Security Council, to step up efforts to de-escalate the situation and facilitate meaningful negotiations between the parties involved.

“Military action is not a substitute for negotiation,” the statement said, stressing that enduring peace must be built on diplomacy, mutual respect, and adherence to international law.

Nigeria pledged its support for all sincere efforts aimed at restoring calm and fostering peace in the region.

“As a nation deeply committed to the principles of peaceful coexistence, nonaggression, and multilateral diplomacy, Nigeria calls on all involved to prioritise dialogue over confrontation.

“We urge the international community, particularly the United Nations Security Council, to intensify efforts toward immediate de-escalation and to provide a platform for constructive engagement.

“The path to lasting peace lies in diplomacy, mutual respect, and adherence to international law. Nigeria stands ready to support all genuine

efforts aimed at de-escalating tensions and promoting peace in the region,” the statement added.

On Friday, Israel launched a major air campaign targeting around 100 sites across Iran, including nuclear and military facilities, killing several senior Iranian military leaders. The strikes, marking one of the most significant escalations between the two countries in recent years, triggered widespread international reactions urging calm and diplomacy to prevent further conflict.

Among those killed were Iran’s armed forces chief of staff, General Mohammad Bagheri, and the commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, Hossein Salami. Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Khamenei called Israel’s wave of strikes a “declaration of war”, as he warned Israel it faced a “bitter and painful” fate over the attacks, while the Iranian military said there were “no limits” to its response.

Meanwhile Britain is deploying fighter jets and other “assets” to the Middle East amid an escalating conflict between Iran and Israel.

“We are moving assets to the region, including jets, and that is for contingency support,” Starmer told reporters travelling with him on his plane to Canada for G7 talks.

Senate Considers Legislative Proposal to Increase Supreme Court Justices to 30

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

The Nigerian Senate is considering a legislative proposal that would increase the number of Supreme Court Justices from the current 21 to 30 in a bid to tackle the mounting backlog of cases and improve the efficiency of the apex court.

Senator Osita Izunaso (Imo West), who is sponsoring the bill, disclosed this during a press briefing in Abuja on Friday to mark his two years in the 10th National Assembly. He argued that the current number of justices is inadequate, despite the recent appointment of 11 justices in 2023 that finally filled the constitutional quota for the first time in Nigeria’s history.

“Even with the full complement of 21 justices, the Supreme Court is overwhelmed. The volume of cases reaching the court daily is alarming. Some litigants are being given hearing dates as far ahead as 2027 and 2028,” Izunaso stated.

According to him, the proposed legislation would enable the apex

court to form more panels to expedite the adjudication process.

“Supreme Court justices typically sit in panels of five, or seven for constitutional matters. If we have 30 justices, it allows the formation of at least five panels simultaneously. That way, more cases can be handled at a faster pace,” he said.

Apex court not for settling village land disputes

Izunaso’s proposal however goes beyond just increasing the number of judges.

The senator is also advocating a major reform in the type of cases the Supreme Court entertains, calling for an end to what he described as the “judicial congestion caused by trivial matters.”

He questioned the rationale behind allowing cases such as land disputes, tenancy disagreements, and divorce battles to reach the highest court in the land.

“Why should a land matter in my village end up in the Supreme Court?” he asked.

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

Peter Uzoho

BOOK PRESENTATION…

Kola Abiola: More Nigerians Deserve Honour over June 12, Babangida Yet to Apologise to Abiola’s Family

Insists

family must recover FG’s debts to MKO

corrected.

Festus Akanbi

Kola Abiola, the first son and head of the family of the winner of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, Bashorun Moshood Abiola, has stated that some Nigerians were omitted from the list of those honoured by President Bola Tinubu for their roles in the efforts to actualise June 12, 1993 election victory.

Also, thirty-two years after the election was annulled and the chain of events that culminated in Abiola’s death, Kola has disclosed that the then military President, General Ibrahim Babangida (rtd), is yet to apologise to the Abiola family.

This is just as he also revealed the decision of the Abiola family to pursue the alleged N45 billion unpaid contract debts owed Abiola by the federal government.

Speaking during a live programme on the ARISE NEWS Channel last night, Kola said he was happy that the process of honouring June 12 heroes had begun, expressing the hope that all the errors would be

“On June 12, when the honours list was rolled out, we expected the first eleven of those who played key roles in the June 12 election matters. But the current president has started the process. He also said the list was not exhaustive; so, as time goes on, let's see what will be done. There were repetitions in the list, and there were some names of people who already have national honours, but I believe there must be a process. People must go through a process where they are pardoned before the national honours.

“I agreed that some names were supposed to be on the list irrespective of their political affiliations, and that is in line with what I described as the first eleven. Someone like me, for example, was deeply involved in the pre-and post-election. I was being trailed by security forces looking for me, and if not for my daughter, I don’t know where I would have been today. I was in detention for four years and five months. But it's not about me,” he stated.

Army Announces Strategic Deployment of 6,195 Newly-recruited Soldiers to Combat Terrorism, Insurgency

Linus Aleke in Abuja

The Nigerian Army has announced the deployment of 6,195 newly recruited soldiers to tackle the challenges of terrorism and insurgency in some parts of Nigeria.

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, said the strategic initiative would bolster the army’s efforts to restore peace and security to affected regions.

Oluyede made the disclosure yesterday at the Passing Out Parade (POP) for the 88 Regular Recruit Intake (RRI) held in Zaria, Kaduna State.

The COAS, who is also the reviewing officer of the passing out parade, tasked the new soldiers to display courage in the face of adversity.

“Our duties as Nigerian Army have traditionally extended beyond the national borders, and the army has played significant roles in ensuring peace and security in the West African subregion, the African continent, and other parts of the world.

“Essentially, you all have become stakeholders in this noble mandate, and more importantly, you are now part of an age-old tradition during a

long line of brave men and women who are ready to give their all to uphold this mandate.

“As you pass out today and take your place in this noble profession, be aware that you will form part of our nation’s solutions to the challenges of terrorism and insurgency.

“Wherever you are deployed, your actions must be a reflection of your training,” Oluyede explained.

Oluyede charged the new soldiers to do everything possible to uphold the spirit of excellence and professionalism in the discharge of their duty, adding: “You cannot afford to be found wanting at any time”.

He further charged them to express the core values of the Nigerian Army, such as trustworthiness and commitment to excellence, determination, and selfless service.

“To the young soldiers that stand before me, today is not just another day of the year, but a day that will dwell significantly in your memory and your families.

“For you, the journey of sacrifice, patriotism, dedication, and commitment to the service of our dear nation has just begun,” the army chief noted.

Although the former military ruler had in his memoir, ‘A Journey in Service,’ which was officially launched on February 20, 2025, taken responsibility for the annulment of the election, Kola said Babangida’s decision to blame the cancellation of Nigeria’s freest and fairest presidential election on an unnamed general has hampered his efforts at reconciliation.

“You cannot have a programme that took us six years and cost the country about $5 billion and not come straight and clean. You cannot have a scenario where you blame one man. You mentioned a Lt. General when we have another Brigadier General whom you refused to name.

“If he had mentioned other people who were involved, including a Brigadier General, I wouldn’t have been worried, but I deliberately didn’t

pursue that because I didn’t want to get into military politics. There was a time when he said there was a threat to his life, but if by now, 32 years and you still can't talk, I think that is serious. I believe that book was a big opportunity to set the record straight, even if it is for MKO alone who paid the supreme sacrifice, I don’t believe those involved should remain nameless,” Kola explained.

On the claim of a family member, Lekan Abiola, that Babangida had called the family to apologise, Kola said any apology that was done privately cannot be recognised, pointing out that President Muhammadu Buhari had done the needful by making an apology on behalf of the Nigerian government publicly.

He said, “President Buhari went public and apologised to the family,

the voters, and the country. That is how it is done, not privately. I'm not aware of such an apology, maybe to him. This is not a personal thing. It is a national thing and if President Buhari has apologised to Nigerians and the family, I think that is it.”

He said discussions with former President Umaru Yar’Adua on how to honour Abiola were ongoing when the latter died, adding that President Goodluck Jonathan couldn’t do it before he was defeated at the polls.

Reacting to the call by former Jigawa State governor, Sule Lamido, for the federal government to pay N45 billion owed Abiola, Kola expressed the hope that President Tinubu should be able to pay the money.

According to Kola Abiola, the debt began to pile up during the tenure of General Olusegun Obasanjo (rtd.)

as a military head of state.

“But for some reason, he wasn’t paid that money because they felt paying him his money would have empowered him to be a threat. Alhaji Sule Lamido surely understands what happened, and that was why he made a case for the payment of this money. The question now is whether it would be paid now, tomorrow, or next. We supposedly have a governance that understands what should be done. If anything will be done at all, it has to start from here.”

On the allegation that Abiola’s ITT never fully implemented the contracts, Kola explained that his father fully completed his task, explaining that the contracts had issues when, for some reason, it was split into three, with the three contractors working at cross-purposes.

Agbakoba Says Nigeria Yet to Achieve Strong Multi-party Democracy, Hails 26 Years of Uninterrupted Civil Rule

Wale Igbintade

Former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Mr. Olisa Agbakoba (SAN), has commended Nigeria’s 26 years of uninterrupted civilian rule, adding however, that the country has not achieved a strong multi-party democracy.

Agbakoba who spoke during a television interview at the weekend, said the current practice where almost everyone wants to belong to the party in power needs to give way for a multi-party democracy where the opposition’s role is well defined.

“The fact that we have done 26 years uninterrupted; I would like to look at it as half-full glass. I like to

be optimistic and say that it is a long journey and that we have come a long way from the days of the military.

“It is not perfect. There is a lot that still needs to be done. Democracy still needs to be consolidated. Even in the president’s broadcast at the joint session at the National Assembly, he alluded to the fact that we have a long way to go; we don’t have a strong multi-party system of democracy”, he said.

According to the senior lawyer,

“We still have a situation of just one party where everyone wants to join the national elite party. Whether it’s the PDP, APGA, or APC, the manifestoes are not different. So, we still got a long way to go to achieve multi-party democracy where you have a clearly

defined opposition and a clearly defined ruling party.”

During his Democracy Day speech at the joint session of the National Assembly on Thursday, President Bola Tinubu honoured some heroes of the June 12 democracy struggle with national awards.

The awardees were activists, journalists, and scholars who spoke vociferously against the military government at the time.

Agbakoba, who was one of the activists that led the struggle, commended the president for the gesture but said that the list of those to be honoured is not yet complete.

“I will start by applauding the President for what he did, but I

would also use this opportunity to say that the list wasn’t complete. Baba Omojola was my prison mate. Femi Ojodu was my prison mate. They ought to be there.

“Clement Nwankwo was the cofounder of the CLO (Civil Liberties Organisation) with me. He ought to be there. I think what can happen is that when the federal government realises that what they did was good, they can fill it up, it’s not a problem,” he said.

Agbakoba also urged Tinubu to grant local government councils the political autonomy to govern their areas, saying that he has only gone halfway in granting them financial autonomy with the Supreme Court judgment of July 2024.

House Joint Committees Summon Edun, Cardoso over Audit Reports, Fiscal Responsibility Violations

Juliet Akoje in Abuja.

The Joint Committees on Public Accounts and Public Assets in the House of Representatives have summoned the Minister of Finance, Mr. Wale Edun, and the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Olayemi Cardoso over alleged breaches of the Fiscal Responsibility Act (FRA) of 2007 and issues flagged in the Auditor-General's 2021 report, including weaknesses in internal financial controls.

In a letter co-signed by the Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee, Hon. Bamidele Salam, and the Chairman of the Committee on Public Assets, Hon. Ademorin Kuye, both officials were directed to explain the CBN’s remittance of its operating surplus to the Federation Account, following relevant laws and regulatory frameworks. Reports from the Fiscal Responsibility Commission and the Auditor-General for the Federation indicate that numerous federal Ministries, Departments, and

Agencies (MDAs) have either failed to remit or have under-remitted their operating surpluses over the past six years, contrary to existing financial regulations.

Chairman of PAC Committee, Salam noted that these infractions have adversely affected the federal government’s cash flow and created obstacles in executing national budgets approved by the National Assembly.

The committees stated that both the Finance Ministry and the CBN had previously been granted

sufficient time to reconcile their accounts and clarify their positions. However, due to the unresolved discrepancies, a final public hearing is now required to determine the actual financial obligations involved.

Additionally, the committees are reviewing findings from the Auditor-General’s statutory report, which highlights that several publicly funded assets despite being fully paid for remain incomplete and unused for extended periods.

L-R: Author's sister, Victoria Egba; Author, Lawretta Egba; and her parents, Mrs. Edith Egba; and Mr. Francis Egba, at the public presentation of the book ‘An Escape to Paris’, in Lagos…recently

INTERVIEW

Maryam Shettima: Tinubu’s Policies Will Revive Nigeria’s Economy

As President Tinubu marked his second anniversary in office last week, Dr Maryam Shettima, in this interview with Wale Igbintade, says the administration deserves commendation for the implementation of some far-reaching policies ranging from subsidy removal to infrastructure revival and the establishment of regional development commissions

How would you rate President Tinubu’s firsttwoyearsinoffice?

Let’s be frank here, when President Tinubu assumed office in 2023, he inherited an economy in distress. The treasury was haemorrhaging from unsustainable subsidies, with many fearing we might follow Venezuela’s downward trajectory. Two years on, while some of these challenges persist, there are undeniable signs of progress worth commending the president for. For instance, the removal of fuel subsidy was a painful but necessary surgery to stop the bleeding. We are now seeing states clearing backlogged salaries and pensions, even debt obligations– small mercies that mean much to affected families. More remarkably, confidence is built in international investors who are returning. You are aware of the $14 billion pledge to our energy sector alone.

Up North, the nearly complete KadunaKano railway and AKK gas pipeline, once stagnant projects, now symbolise renewed momentum. These are not mere construction sites but economic game changers. Farmers report better market access, while new agro-processing plants across regions promise value addition.

What is particularly encouraging is the administration’s dual focus: simultaneously addressing legacy debts (including IMF obligations) while investing in development. The establishment of regional commissions demonstrates welcome attention to long-neglected areas, aims to address infrastructure deficits, and tackle unemployment, poverty, insecurity, and a host of other challenges.

Yet tempering optimism is prudent. Food prices remain painfully high, though we have seen some major steps taken to address that, and Nigerians are already seeing the results. The war against insecurity is gaining momentum, and our troops are doing their best, though these concerns linger in some regions. The true test lies in whether these foundations will translate to tangible improvements in ordinary Nigerians’ lives in the coming years.

For me, as we reflect on these two years, it’s rather too early for definitive judgment. The administration deserves credit for stabilising the patient, but the recovery remains fragile. Perhaps in another twenty-four months, we will still be better positioned to assess whether today’s painful reforms yielded their promised transformation.

Yousoundoptimistic,butcriticswillarguethatdespiteallyouhavesaid,poverty levelsremainalarminglyhighacrossthe country,andthenaira’sdevaluationhas crippledpurchasingpowerforordinary Nigerians. How would you respond to theseveryrealconcerns?

You raised a critical point, one we cannot gloss over. Yes, macroeconomic pressures have squeezed households, but what Mr. President is building now are the structural foundations to reverse this decline. Let me explain how. First, infrastructure is productivity. For instance, in the North, when the AKK pipeline delivers gas at one-third of current energy costs, Northern factories will slash production expenses by 40-60%. Cheaper goods mean lower inflation. When the Kaduna-Kano rail moves a truckload of grain for N15,000 instead of N80,000,

market prices drop. These are not theoretical gains; we are already seeing it in corridors where projects are operational.

Second, the naira devaluation exposed our import addiction, but look at the counter strategy: The Zaria-Funtua road is enabling tomato farmers to access other markets competitively, reducing reliance on imported paste. The Kano Special Agro-Processing Zone will add value to 2 million tonnes of crops annually, exporting finished goods, not raw materials, to earn forex.

Third, job multipliers. Every kilometre of railway built employs 200 people directly and 600 indirectly, wages that circulate locally. The Kachia University will produce graduates to operate these assets, moving youth from subsistence to skilled labour.

Are hardships real? Absolutely. Poverty can only be defeated by systemic change. What critics miss is that today’s infrastructure is tomorrow’s cheaper food, stable jobs, and stronger naira. The timeline is painful, but the trajectory is irreversible.

CriticsclaimPresidentTinubu

favoursSoutherninfrastructureprojects liketheLagos-CalabarCoastalHighway over Northern development. How do yourespond?

Absolute nonsense. The facts dismantle that narrative entirely. While Southern projects dominate headlines due to their complex terrains and flashy budgets, the North has seen accelerated progress on long-stalled initiatives. Take the KadunaKano railway, stuck at 30% for eight years, now leaping to 90% completion. Or the AKK gas pipeline, weeks from operation after years of delays. Comparing regions ignores geography: Northern projects often advance faster because our landscapes allow efficient execution. This is not favouritism; it is pragmatism yielding results.

TheKano-Katsina-Maradirailwaywas inheritedfrompreviousadministrations. Why has progress under Tinubu been so dramatic?

Political will and accountability. President Tinubu made these projects priority contracts, with monthly progress reviews and direct presidential oversight. The $255 million Chinese loan for the KanoKaduna rail line was secured because this administration proved its commitment through action. Contractors now know delays won’t be tolerated. It is not magic; it is leadership refusing to accept failure as tradition.

How will the near-complete AKK gas pipeline tangibly benefit ordinary Northernersbeyondindustrialzones?

Oh, this touches kitchens and market stalls. This initiative will drive Nigeria’s economic development by generating employment, boosting revenue streams, and strengthening the national economy. Furthermore, it will play a key role in curbing gas flaring through the establishment of critical gas infrastructure, supporting environmental sustainability, safeguarding energy security, and fostering a greener future for the nation. Besides job creation, gas conversion technicians, pipeline maintenance crews, and even new industries are sprouting along the route.

Don’t overlook the project’s reach into Kaduna State. A major stretch of the pipeline traverses the region, promising substantial benefits for our communities. Take the Kakuri Industrial Area, for instance, home to factories and vital textile producers. The AKK pipeline will reinvigorate these industries and many more, injecting fresh energy into Kaduna’s economy. We have no doubt, this project will be a game-changer for the North. This pipeline is not just infrastructure; it is an economic leveller.

SomearguetheNorth-WestDevelopment Commission (NWDC) is merely symbolic.Whatisyourview?

Symbolic? Tell that to Sokoto farmers battling droughts or Zamfara communities rebuilding after banditry. The NWDC’s mandate, dedicated funding, and localised solutions break the cycle of blanket policies that ignore the North West’s unique needs. Its irrigation and security initiatives alone will safeguard livelihoods and restore stability. This is not tokenism; it is the first time the region has had tailored attention. Real impact takes time, but the framework for transformation is now in place.

WiththeFederalUniversityofApplied Sciencelaunchingsoon,howwillitaddressyouthunemploymentintheNorth? By marrying education to opportunity. This is not a university churning out graduates for nonexistent white-collar jobs; it is training engineers for the railways we are building, agri-tech specialists for our farms, and renewable energy technicians for the AKK pipeline’s next phase. The governing council has already partnered with 17 industries to guarantee internships and employment. Come 2027, these young people won’t be begging for jobs; they will be the skilled workforce driving the North’s industrial revolution. That is how you turn potential into prosperity.

Withoppositionleadersnowuniting under a coalition ahead of 2027, critics claimyourpartyhasperformedpoorly and that conditions have deteriorated further under this administration. Do you believe Tinubu can secure victory in the next election?

Honestly? Tinubu’s chances in 2027 look solid to me. Love him or not, the man’s delivered where it counts, power projects in the South, farming boosts up North, and new roads in the East. Sure, opposition alliances will stir noise, but elections are won on two things: what you have done, and whether people believe you will do more. Right now, he is ticking both boxes better than the alternatives.

• Shettima

Editor: Festus Akanbi

08038588469

Email:festus.akanbi@thisdaylive.com

Breaking the Deadlock on Nigeria’s Unclaimed Dividends

A final resolution of the rising unclaimed dividends issue will restore investor confidence, enhance market participation, and unlock the full potential of the Nigerian stock market as a catalyst for broader economic growth, writes Festus Akanbi

In Nigeria, one big discouragement to investment opportunities in the stock market is the uncertainty of such investment, this time in the form of shares of quoted companies bought and which can be resold for future financial needs by the owners or handed over to children or relatives as inheritance upon the death of the owners.

Adividend is a portion of a company’s profits distributed to its shareholders, typically in the form of cash or additional stock.

However, some of these shares are easily forgotten or abandoned by their owners as a result of death, faulty documentation during share purchase and the failure of company registrars to do the needful, therefore raising the volume of unclaimed dividends and discouraging potential investors in the capital market.

Today, the rising number of unclaimed dividends in Nigeria poses a significant threat to the growth of the capital market and the broader economy.

Analysts said this undermines investor confidence and discourages both retail and institutional participation in the equity market.

This is because, when investors are unable to access their rightful returns, they become disillusioned, leading to reduced reinvestment and lower market liquidity. This weakens the capital formation process, hampers the mobilisation of long-term funds for businesses, and ultimately slows economic development.

Analysts are of the view that addressing this issue is crucial for restoring trust, deepening market participation, and fostering sustainable economic growth.

SEC’s Marching Orders

This is why last week’s directive of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), asking companies and their registrars who default on paying unclaimed dividends to shareholders to honour the provisions stated in the Finance Act 2020, could not have come at a better period.

The apex regulator in the capital market issued the directive in a statement on Tuesday, June 10, and also stated that shareholders can now claim up to 12 years of unclaimed dividends, adding that its directive aligns with Section 60 of the Finance Act 2020.

“The attention of the Securities and Exchange Commission has been drawn to the fact that paying companies and their Registrars have

continued to treat unclaimed dividends of public companies that are older than 12 years as being “statute-barred” without recourse to the provisions of the Finance Act 2020.

“Pending the setting up and operationalisation of the (Unclaimed Fund Trust Fund), UFTF by the Federal Government, under its powers under Sections 3 (4) (e) and 93 of the Investments and Securities Act 2025, the Commission hereby directs public companies and their Registrars to continue to honour all requests by shareholders for the payment of unclaimed dividends as described above, with effect from December 31, 2020,” it stated.

The SEC stressed that public companies and registrars are required to effect immediate compliance with this directive and submit periodic reports on the same in the manner prescribed in the commission’s rules and regulations.

In Nigeria’s unclaimed-dividend controversy, “statute-barred” refers to the legal provision under the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA) that any dividend not claimed within 12 years becomes statute-barred, meaning the shareholder permanently loses the right to claim it.

The directive clarified that the import of the provisions of Section 60 of the Finance Act 2020 is that where dividends declared by a publicly quoted company on the Nigerian Exchange Limited remained unclaimed for six years or more, such dividends are expected to be transferred to the Unclaimed Funds Trust Fund (UFTF).

Growing Volume of Unclaimed Dividends

Analysts said that the unclaimed dividend crisis, which, according to reports, currently stands at a staggering N215 billion, has raised questions about the effectiveness of the systems in place to manage shareholder dividends and the larger implications for investors, especially in terms of trust and confidence in the market.

In August 2024, the SEC reiterated its commitment to resolving the lingering issue of unclaimed dividends through the deployment of advanced technology solutions and improved stakeholder engagement. The Director-General of the commission, Emomotimi Agama, acknowledged the challenge posed by the mounting unclaimed dividends and vowed to reduce this backlog.

According to reports, in 1999, unclaimed dividends stood at N2.09bn, but by 2015, the figure had skyrocketed to N90bn. The trend

continued as the figure reached N158.44bn in 2019, N168bn in 2020, and N177bn in 2021. Most recently, by 2023, the amount surged to N190bn and currently stands at N215bn, underscoring persistent challenges such as outdated processes, lapses in record-keeping, and systemic barriers to claims. Experts said the alarming increase reflects the urgent need for reforms to address the structural causes of the growing problem.

The unclaimed dividend crisis has been an issue for many years and has only gained significant traction in the last decade as more and more shareholders have come forward with complaints. The introduction of the e-dividend system, which was meant to streamline the process of dividend payment and distribution, has helped somewhat by reducing the time and effort required for claimants to access their funds. However, it has not completely solved the problem, and in some cases, it has added more layers of complexity.

Apportioning Blames

Capital market watchers argued that a large portion of the issue lies in the role of registrars, the entities responsible for maintaining accurate shareholder records and processing dividend payments. Registrars have often been criticised for poor record-keeping, inefficient responses to enquiries, and a lack of accountability in managing shareholder data. This, they pointed out, has contributed to a situation where dividends are either not paid out on time or remain unclaimed due to systemic failures.

The dividends in question are earnings distributed by companies to shareholders, often from investments made during the IPO booms of the late 1990s and early 2000s. Many investors either failed to update their details with registrars, lost share certificates, did not open a Central Securities Clearing System (CSCS) account, or simply forgot about the investments entirely.

In other cases, the next of kin do not know inherited shares, leaving billions of naira unclaimed across multiple registrars. This situation has left countless Nigerians disconnected from their investments. With current economic pressures and rising inflation, the existence of such a vast pool of unrecovered personal wealth has taken on greater urgency. Yet, for many, navigating the complexities of the capital market, particularly regarding dividend recovery, remains a challenge.

According to the Group Managing Director of Fundvine Holdings, a licensed Nigerian

investment and capital market firm committed to helping Nigerians recover what is rightfully theirs, Dr. Michael Enyinna Kasarachi, the unclaimed dividend crisis is as much a systemic failure as it is a personal loss.

“It is deeply concerning that in an economy where many are struggling financially, billions in rightful earnings remain untouched. Our mission is to reconnect Nigerians to their lost investments through proper guidance and regulatory compliance.”

Shareholders Call for More Sensitisation

The National Coordinator of the Progressive Shareholders Association of Nigeria, Boniface Okezie, emphasised the need for legislative reform to address the crisis. He argued that the statute of limitations on unclaimed dividends, as outlined in the Companies and Allied Matters Act, must be reviewed.

“The law says after 12 years, if no shareholder comes forward to claim dividends, it must revert to the companies that declared them. Why are they jettisoning that provision of the Companies and Allied Matters Act? SEC must call for an amendment of that section of the law,” Okezie stated.

He also called for more public awareness campaigns, particularly for grassroots investors. “The SEC must embark on enlightenment programmes with other stakeholders. The immediate past administration of the SEC under the leadership of Gwazo introduced e-dividends, but that has not solved the issue entirely. The message has not gotten to the grassroots or even urban dwellers,” he said.

The good thing is that the SEC expects the directive to take off immediately, and it has stated its determination to hold the companies and their registrars accountable going forward. The Head, External Relations Department, Mrs. Efe Bello, in an interview with THISDAY explained that public companies and registrars are required to effect immediate compliance with this directive and submit periodic reports on the same in the manner prescribed in the commission’s Rules and Regulations.

“Normally, when they submit these reports, we analyse them, and any company that is not complying will be sanctioned accordingly,” Ebelo stated.

The enforcement of the SEC’s directives will certainly restore investors’ confidence and make companies and registrars more accountable.

SEC Towers, Abuja

BEYOND THE OJUDE OBA EXCLUSION

Solomon Adeola’s exclusion from chairing the Ojude Oba Festival reinforces his position as a leading figure in Ogun State politics, contends KUNLE SOMORIN

The recent exclusion of Senator Solomon Adeola from chairing the 2025 Ojude Oba Festival is a calculated political move that speaks volumes beyond the immediate event itself. It is a manifestation of power struggle, a testament to the ever-dynamic interplay of influence, ambition, and resistance within the complex theatre of Ogun State politics. Beneath the veneer of tradition and palace deliberations lies an orchestrated manoeuvre, designed to curb the momentum of a man whose political trajectory threatens to upend existing power structures.

The Ojude Oba Festival, with its grand confluence of people, tradition, and authority, provides a potent platform for the subliminal endorsement of leadership. To have Adeola preside over the event would have been to reinforce his acceptability, to confirm his place in the consciousness of the people as the natural choice for the state’s future. It was a moment his detractors could not afford, for they understood all too well that political ascendancy often begins with perception.

Adeola’s emergence at President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s residence shortly thereafter stands as the ultimate repudiation of the strategy deployed against him. In stepping into the nucleus of national political power, he has reinforced the notion that his relevance is dictated by forces far beyond the provincial calculations of Ogun State politics. His presence alongside Tinubu is not a moment of mere social engagement; it is an assertion, a declaration that his political future remains untouched by the manoeuvrings of a threatened few.

The implications of this re-emergence are profound. Firstly, it solidifies his standing within the hierarchy of power, affirming that his trajectory is shaped at the highest levels of governance rather than by the machinations of local operatives. While his adversaries sought to diminish his presence within Ogun State, his presence in Tinubu’s inner circle demonstrates that his influence extends far beyond the boundaries of regional contestation.

In Nigerian politics, proximity to power is as consequential as policy itself, and Adeola’s positioning within the presidency’s orbit speaks volumes about his enduring relevance. Secondly, this episode dismantles any perception of political diminishment. For all the effort invested in excluding him from Ojude Oba, the conversation surrounding his gubernatorial viability has only intensified, fuelled in part by the very forces that sought to silence him.

Adeola’s appearance at Tinubu’s residence serves as a counterweight, obliterating the illusion of marginalisation and asserting instead that his trajectory is beyond the confines of localised resistance. Those who sought to obscure his visibility have inadvertently amplified it, ensuring that his name remains dominant in discussions of Ogun State’s political future.

Thirdly, the re-emergence underscores the futility of attempting to regulate the rise of political figures

through exclusionary tactics. The power calculus within Nigerian politics is complex, governed not merely by local contestations but by overarching strategic alliances that dictate outcomes far beyond immediate appearances.

Adeola’s ability to recalibrate his positioning within the space of two hours demonstrates a political dexterity that is invaluable in contests of this nature. His detractors, in seeking to dictate his fortunes through restrictive measures, have been confronted with the reality that genuine political resilience is impervious to transient obstruction.

In truth, Senator Solomon Adeola’s exclusion from chairing the Ojude Oba Festival has ultimately served to amplify his political presence and reinforce his position as a leading figure in Ogun State politics. The attempt to undermine his momentum has instead galvanized his supporters and highlighted the organic support he commands among various constituencies.

As Ogun State looks to the future, it is clear that Adeola’s trajectory is shaped by forces beyond the control of local operatives. His emergence at President Tinubu’s residence underscores his national relevance and solidifies his standing within the hierarchy of power. The lessons from this episode are clear: attempts to suppress a political force often result in the opposite effect, fortifying rather than diminishing its relevance.

Adeola’s resilience and determination have demonstrated that his political strength is undeniable, and his trajectory is unalterable. As the state prepares for its next political transition, one thing is certain: Senator Adeola will be a dominant force in the conversation. His exclusion from Ojude Oba has become a moment of unintended validation, and his presence will continue to shape the political landscape of Ogun State for years to come.

WUMI ILEDARE pays tribute to the oil and gas industry professional and NNPC’s former chief health, safety and environment officer

BALA WUNTI’S LEGACY OF SERVICE

Today, I pause with reverence to honour a man whose career has left an indelible imprint— not only on Nigeria’s energy landscape but also in the hearts of those privileged to walk beside him: Bala Wunti. This is a man who listened, learned, and led with admirable calm and exceptional ability. He carried himself with a gracious, compassionate spirit—remarkably detribalized and deeply committed to the principle that everyone deserves a seat at the table in a diverse society. He never pandered to one group at the expense of another. His graciousness was rooted in a profound understanding: your right to benefit from a system must never infringe on the rights of others. Bala embodied this principle, consistently choosing to do what was right—never from a transactional mindset, but from conviction.

For over three decades, Bala stood as a symbol of purpose, excellence, and resilience within NNPC. His journey— from those early days at the Eleme Petrochemical Complex, marked by youthful enthusiasm, to his final days in the Group HSE Division—was one of unwavering dedication and quiet impact. He often spoke of how the corridors of NNPC shaped him. But it must equally be said: he profoundly shaped them in return. As is often the case, those who refuse to personalize power are seldom celebrated. Yet Bala Wunti deliberately chose not to personalize authority. He championed institutional integrity and collective decision-making.

Whether reviving upstream operations post-COVID at NAPIMS and NUIMS, automating systems at PPMC, building strategy at Brass LNG, or serving as a trusted advisor at the highest levels of corporate leadership, Bala brought to every role a fierce intellect, grounded judgment, and a deep commitment to national progress. His contributions were not just technical—they were transformative. The resolution of multibillion-dollar PSCs, the execution of Operation White to curb petroleum smuggling, and his leadership on the Kolmani Integrated Development Project stand as testaments to what vision, clarity, and courageous leadership can achieve.

But Bala’s career was never just about projects—it was about purpose. His advocacy for gas as Nigeria’s transition fuel and his tireless push for sustainable policy reform were grounded in a conviction to do what is right—for our country, for our industry, and for future generations. And he took that message beyond our borders.

At international forums, especially OPEC, Bala carried Nigeria’s voice with distinction—engaging global leaders as an articulate ambassador of our energy vision.

His final chapter, leading Health, Safety, and Environment at NNPC, was a fitting culmination of a career defined by foresight and integrity. Under his leadership, projects like IMRA+, FEMS, the rebranding of HSE, and the revised HSE guidelines were not just technical frameworks—they were legacies of care, protection, and long-term value. Yet beyond all the accolades and institutional achievements, what we remember most is Bala the man. The mentor. The colleague.

Beyond all the accolades and institutional achievements, what we remember most is Bala the man. The mentor. The colleague. The friend. He made time for others. He believed in people. He inspired with quiet strength, led with deep humility, and uplifted everyone who had the honour of working with him

The friend. He made time for others. He believed in people. He inspired with quiet strength, led with deep humility, and uplifted everyone who had the honour of working with him. His office may now fall silent, but the values he lived by—integrity, excellence, and sustainability—will continue to echo through our halls.

In his own words: “Though this office may no longer carry the sound of my footsteps, I hope the imprint of my service lives on—enduring, steady, and true.” Indeed, Bala, it does. Your imprint lives on in the systems you built, the policies you shaped, the people you mentored, and the legacy we remain proud to carry forward. This is not goodbye—it is a heartfelt salute. You were here. You gave us your best. And for that, quite a lot of us professionals are grateful.

Wumi Iledare, Professor Emeritus, Energy Studies, Louisiana State University, United States

Somorin writes from Crescent University, Abeokuta

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA

Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com

ON NAMING EDIFICES AFTER THE PRESIDENT

This may be good for the promoters, but less so for the President. He should stem the trend

Ordinarily, the naming of public institutions is one way in which governments acknowledge and permanently pay tribute to the contributions of outstanding citizens to the process of nation building in different fields. It is a practice that is usually subject to rigorous selection processes to ensure that those honoured with such institutional recognition meet certain criteria in the estimation of the public. More often than not, the individuals that have structures and institutions named after them may have died after a life of meritorious national service. The logic here is to ensure that those so honoured have left indelible footprints to serve as monuments and examples to future generations.

Unfortunately, the current administration of President Bola Tinubu seems to have reversed this convention. At the last count, he has had to commission no fewer than seven public institutions named or renamed after him. Only last week, the recently refurbished International Conference Centre (ICC) in Abuja was renamed after Tinubu by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike. But the Minister was just following an established pattern. The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) command-and-control centre is now Bola Ahmed Tinubu Technology Innovation Complex (BATTIC). The library and resource centre at the National Assembly has been named after Tinubu. In January, a newly completed military facility in Abuja was named Bola Ahmed Tinubu Barracks. Major roads in Abuja have been named after the president as well. The question on many lips now is: what next will President Tinubu appropriate to his growing trove of personalised public assets?

Tinubu were constructed by his predecessors in office who were sensible not to have named these public institutions after themselves. It started with Governor Mohammed Umar Bago of Niger State renaming the Minna airport ‘Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport’.

Generally regarded as the single biggest figure in Hausa literature, Abubakar Imam (to whom it was named by the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari) and the late Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe were professional contemporaries during the pre-colonial era. That Tinubu saw nothing wrong with the renaming, despite that aviation is on the exclusive list in the 1999 constitution, indicated a presidential endorsement for the illegal decision. Since then, it would appear federal officials are now competing among themselves on who would name more public facilities after the president.

It is, at best, the rearguard action of desperate sycophants bending over backwards to prove to their paymaster that they are ‘loyal’

SUNDAY NEWSPAPER

editor DAviDSoN iriEkpEN

deputy editors FESTUS AkANBi, EJioFor ALikE

Managing director ENioLA BELLo

deputy Managing director iSrAEL iwEgBU

chairMan editorial Board oLUSEgUN ADENiYi

editor nation s capital iYoBoSA UwUgiArEN the oMBudsMan kAYoDE koMoLAFE

THISDAY NEWSPAPERS LIMITED

editor-in-chief/chairMan NDUkA oBAigBENA

Many Nigerians are concerned by this new dimension to governance. In only two years, the Tinubu government has named or renamed more institutions than any previous administration in Nigeria. Even if the edifices were constructed by the Tinubu administration, the whole idea of naming them after him would assume that they were done in his private capacity and with personal resources. That is not the case. But what is even more egregious is that most of the facilities being named after

group executive directors ENioLA BELLo, kAYoDE koMoLAFE iSrAEL iwEgBU

divisional directors SHAkA MoMoDU, pETEr iwEgBU ANTHoNY ogEDENgBE

deputy divisional director oJogUN viCTor DANBoYi snr. associate director EriC oJEH

associate director pATriCk EiMiUHi

controllers ABiMBoLA TAiwo UCHENNA DiBiAgwU, NDUkA MoSEri

director, printing production CHUkS oNwUDiNJo to send eMail: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com

This obsession with the naming of places and institutions after living individuals is a progressive degradation of our public morality. It indicates the elevation of individual vainglory to the status of a norm of public recognition. We have, as it were, become a society of the here and now that worships the totems of the moment for transient political purposes. We have graduated into an enclave ruled by the privatisation of public assets and institutions. Specifically, the presidential appropriation of national institutions and structures for his personal aggrandisement may be an unmistakable slide to a regrettable personality cult and authoritarianism that is still alien to Nigeria’s extant political culture. Meanwhile, most reasonable Nigerians do not see any altruism in the action of federal government operatives that are naming public institutions after the president. Instead, what they see, at best, is the rearguard action of desperate sycophants bending over backwards to prove to their paymaster that they are ‘loyal’. At worst it looks like an indecent inducement to retain their positions. That is why we call on the president to discourage what is fast earning him opprobrium with many Nigerians. We hope it is not too late for him to halt the ridiculous trend.

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

LETTERS

THE DIGNITY OF CIVIL SERVICE

The national Orientation Agency has warned popular Abuja car dealer known as Sarkinmoto over a viral skit he made to promote one of his automotive products. According to the NOA, the video does a great disservice to civil servants at a time Nigerians are writhing under increasing social pressure from get-rich-quick schemes. In the video, the car dealer asks the Artificial Intelligence in his car if civil servants can afford it, to which the Artificial Intelligence replies that maybe in 2062. The video is as odious as they come in a country where social media is increasingly becoming a cesspit where moral values are corrupted and incinerated.

For many Nigerians, working for the government is as good as it gets. Whether it is as civil servants or as public servants,” government work” is as good as it gets. This is not surprising. In a country where

unemployment is rife and social security bordering on zero, the job security provided by the civil service and the regular pay, especially in the federal civil service, is an oasis in the wilderness everywhere else. Civil servants form and forge the lubricant that keep the wheels of the government turning. They toil, thread and thresh to keep the mills of the government grinding away.

They hold the full length of the red tape and often toil away thanklessly to ensure that the government continues to function properly.

Yet, in a country where many perverse problems are disguised as prudence, civil servants have somehow become part of Nigeria’s myriad problems. Much like those who become public servants and remorselessly refine the art of ripping off the government, and reaping where they did not sow, civil servants have become symbols

of Nigeria’s bureaucratic corruption.

There have been mind-boggling stories of civil servants transitioning into millionaires out of nowhere, despite the blatant insufficiency of their salaries, allowances and other emoluments.

In recent times, it has become commonplace to equate civil service in Nigeria with public service in terms of sheer sleaze. In fact, in the eyes of many Nigerians, civil servants are just as corrupt as their counterparts in the public service.

This perception, confirmed partly by the prosecution of many civil servants in highprofile corruption cases, has contributed to ruining the reputation of civil servants around the country. But it does not have to be so. In fact, it was never meant or made to be so.

Civil service is first about civility, dignity, and integrity in service to the country. As a collection of the people who keep the

country’s bureaucracy going, the civil service is at the core of a country’s development or lack of it.

Invariably, those who serve in the civil service of any country should draw pride and a deep sense of fulfillment from the fact of rendering service to their country. his is crucial to their well-being and the sense of patriotism they will invariably bring to the key contributions they make to their country.

Mocking them in any way is counterproductive and reprehensible. In a country where national ethics are daily being eroded by the messages of instant gratification, the civil service serves as a critical counterweight to the heinous heft of those who would not mind at all if the society is swept away by their malicious messaging.

Ike Willie-Nwobu, Ikewilly9@gmail.com

In Their Words: The Gift of Fatherhood

To mark Father’s Day, Vanessa Obioha speaks with fathers about the evolving meaning of fatherhood, the joys it brings, and how society often masks their vulnerability.

Fathers are not for a season. Even in their absence, their imprint lingers, etched into memory and shaped into legacy. For the men featured here—some new to the role, others seasoned—the meaning of fatherhood keeps evolving. Society doesn’t always make it easy for them to show vulnerability, but if anything, they take this role seriously, especially for younger dads; fatherhood has led them to unexpected places. Yet all of them share one thing in common: deep gratitude for the fathers who came before them, and a sense that to be a great dad is perhaps the most honourable calling of all.

A Father’s Love Wears Many Faces

Recently divorced and a father of two, Fabian has found that the idea of fatherhood keeps changing for him over the years. “I’ve moved from tough love to simply love,” he said. “I never imagined I could feel this depth of emotion for another human being. Now I’m a total softie—my kids somehow erased the “tough” from “tough love,” though I can’t explain how. My boy is my boy, and nothing beats a daughter’s love.”

Not all men would easily admit that fatherhood has made them more emotionally open, especially in Nigeria where masculinity often means no vulnerability. Fabian argued that while society plays a role, it also depends on the mental state of the fathers.

“It depends on which society you live in mentally, not just physically— you can be in Africa yet inhabit a Western mental world.

My grandfather was the first father-figure I knew. He was a tough man—what we’d now call hard. Looking back, I understand why: for him and his generation, love meant guiding and shaping you for the world, never letting a flaw go uncorrected. Neighbours could scold you, and it would have been deemed unloving—or irresponsible—if they stayed silent when you slipped up.”

“Today,” he continued, “emotional connection often centres on accepting most behavioural flaws. Fatherhood, I believe, is deeply cultural, so emotional expression must be viewed through that lens. I’ve had friends say, ‘Papa no tell me say he love me.’ I ask them, ‘Did he pay your school fees? Did he work himself to the bone for you and your siblings?’ Because in doing so, he told you he loved you every single day—far beyond what words could express.

“I’m not saying verbal expression is not important, I tell my kids I love them all the time. But I find that modern society can shame fathers who don’t express emotion in the media-approved, Western way, yet love wears many faces.”

On the legacy he intends to leave for his children, Fabian said: “A deep pride in their African, Nigerian and Yoruba heritage. It’s priceless— worth more than all the money in the world.”

Fabian Adeoye Lojede, Actor and Creative Entrepreneur, Lagos

Fatherhood Makes You Less Judgemental of Others

Children have a way of making you slow down. This was the case for Isime as he embraced fatherhood.

“When you’re dealing with children, you are kind of forced to be patient, to take things slow, to explain better so that they can catch up.”

Isime also discovered that a father’s number one concern is always to protect the child from danger. “You can’t keep your eyes away from them, not even for a second, especially when they are toddlers. It’s a bit easier to deal with when they are older.”

Although his father passed before he became a dad, in retrospect, Isime said fatherhood has given him a better understanding of his actions and decisions. “You become less judgmental and more forgiving when you think about their actions or decisions, or even when you think of other fathers. So you get a better understanding of why people, or why fathers do the things that they do.”

Isime Esene, Special Assistant on Media and Communications to the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Abuja

Fatherhood Has Turned Me into a Bridge Between Generations

Timilehin never expected fatherhood to teach him how to love children easily and deeply.

“I expected responsibility, exhaustion, and pressure and I got all of that, but I didn’t anticipate how much joy and strength I’d find just watching them grow, laugh, and call me ‘Daddy.’ I also didn’t expect how much of myself I’d have to confront.

“Children mirror you. They

show you both your light and your flaws. That self-awareness has been surprising and humbling.”

And fatherhood keeps grounding him in ways he never imagined.

“Being responsible for two little humans, my twin daughters have completely reshaped how I think about time, priorities, and even success. Before them, I used to measure growth by career milestones or financial achievements. Now, maturity for me means patience, emotional resilience, and learning how to show up consistently, even when I’m drained from work or worried about how to stretch limited resources. Fatherhood has made me more intentional. I think long-term now, not just about myself, but about building a stable future for my girls.”

Perhaps, the best thing fatherhood has done to him is making him see his father from a different lens.

“I now understand the silent sacrifices he made that I may have taken for granted growing up. Juggling bills, protecting the home from economic realities, being present, even when it wasn’t convenient. I find myself more empathetic, and more grateful. We have also had more heart-to-heart conversations recently. I guess fatherhood has turned me into a bridge between generations, and I take that role seriously.”

Timilehin Adebiyi, Marketing Communications Consultant, Lagos Fatherhood Has Made Me More Calculative

Jerry has learnt a lot from fatherhood, including patience, intentionality and “the value of being present—not just physically, but emotionally too. I now think beyond myself in every decision I make,” he said.

But one of the surprising things it taught him was to be more calculative and consider his daughter in everything he does, from his movements to budgets and plans.

“I find myself asking: ‘If I go to this place, how long will it take to get back to her?’ It’s amazing how calculative I have become since her arrival.”

While his father wasn’t always present in his childhood, the absence, he said, has taught him to be more intentional about being present in his daughter’s life.

“But now, seeing how naturally children tend to bond more with their mothers has made me reflect on my own relationship with my dad. It’s pushed me to make more effort to connect with him—realising that fathers can easily be sidelined if we’re not careful. In many ways, being a dad has helped me understand him better and try to bridge that gap.”

Dr. Jerry Adeyeri, PR Consultant, Lagos

It is Important to Be a Great Father than Win an Oscar

Not many men are blessed with amazing fathers, Chris is lucky to be blessed with one such that even after death, his father still remains the man he aspires to be.

“Some of the decisions and sacrifices my father made are why I’m where I am today,” he said. “I would not have ended up like this, but for my father.”

From him, Chris learnt many things, including having dignity in labour, being firm and fair, and “he loved his children.”

“Fatherhood is the ultimate work of a man that has children and that starts out with you understanding that they (children) have their lives, and your role is to guide them,” he said. “My boys are my greatest honour in life. They are 10 and seven this year; they are my proudest work. I sometimes say to myself that if I can get this right, if I’m able to raise these boys right – with their mother– I would have done my best work.”

He added that fatherhood goes beyond footing the bills. “It demands your presence in their lives. And in fatherhood, there is no guarantee of outcomes. You can do your best, and the child would still not turn out the way you expected, but you have to have done your best first and leave the rest to God.”

Chris Ihidero, Filmmaker, Lagos

Ihidero

Adeyeri

esene

Adebiyi

Lojede

Ojude Oba 2025

Cultural Heritage at a Global Stage

of

Cultural Heritage at a Global Stage

From the early hours of last Sunday, the roads leading to Awujale’s Palace were packed with heavy human and vehicular movement.

Sounds of traditional drums and Yoruba songs rented the air as festival buffsyoung and old- gyrated while others from the Ijebu royal families rode beautifully decorated horses during the formal procession. Street vendors paraded their wares including food, clothes, beads and local crafts, turning the entire area into a kaleidoscope of culture.

Ijebu Ode, the cultural heartbeat of Ogun State, was once again the centre of attention on Sunday, June 8, with the return of Ojude Oba Festival, a celebration deeply rooted in tradition, fashion, unity, and community pride dating back to 19th century.

With the theme ‘Ojude Oba: Celebrating Our Roots, Preserving Our Future,’ this year’s festival was rich in colour, rhythm, and heritage, drawing ijebu indigenes- home and abroad- as well as tourists, celebrities, business leaders, and political figures from across Nigeria and beyond.

The expression “Ojude Oba” translates to “The King’s Courtyard” and traditionally, Ijebu People particularly the muslim converts would assemble to pay homage to the king three days after the Eidel-Kabir. Today, it stands as a celebration of culture, a centrifuge of local economic activity, and a living legacy of the Ijebu people’s pride in their multi-generational heritage.

Inside the main venue, various Regberegbe (age-grade groups) and Eleshin families clad in aso-ebi, mostly coordinated and colourful aso-oke fabrics took turns at the parade, defying the scorching sun. The women, in beautiful makeup and regal headwraps, radiated elegance. As part of the custom, each group paid homage to the Awujale of Ijebu Land, Oba (Dr) Sikiru Kayode Adetona, CFR, JP, a revered monarch whose reign has preserved the legacy of Ijebu tradition for decades.

Among the high-profile guests was Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, who also joined the traditional horseback parade alongside the sterling crowd-pleaser also known as the King of Steeze, Farooq Oreagba. The latter’s grand entrance to the traditional venue, Awujale Pavilion, was a much-anticipated one having created a buzz last year with his signature cigar, tattooed arms and infectious smile that combined to make him the poster boy of Ojude Oba. Oreagba was clad in two distinct outfits to live up to his moniker: a chocolate and bronze as well as a yellow and green piece furnished with a handwoven criss-cross belt. Indeed, Oreagba has inspired a younger generation of young men and women of ijebu ancestry to embrace this festival which has enjoyed more sponsorships than ever before.

In a statement, Governor Abiodun reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to growing tourism as a key driver of economic development.

“Ojude Oba projects the beauty of our tradition to the world,” Abiodun stated. “This festival aligns with our vision to position Ogun as a leading destination for cultural tourism.”

He commended the Awujale for his wisdom, integrity, and foresight in sustaining the cultural identity of the Ijebu people through the years.

Interestingly, for over 20 years, First City Monument Bank (FCMB) has been one of the major sponsors of the Ojude Oba festival. And journalists often visited the Founder, FCMB, Chief Subomi Balogun in his residence which is a few kilometres from the venue. Since his demise, the festival has become bigger and his bank has continued his legacy of supporting the cultural heritage by putting on a strong presence at this year’s event, with its staff dressed in purple Dutch wax and matching aso-oke gele as they joined the happy crowd in the celebration.

Speaking at the event, FCMB’s Head of Corporate Affairs, Diran Olojo, described

as “no longer a local

international event.”

“It is a full cultural and economic ecosystem,” he said. “Tailors, designers, makeup artists, fabric sellers—so many businesses benefit from this celebration. For us, it’s more than sponsorship; it’s an investment in tradition and community.”

He added, “Once you think of Ojude Oba, you think of FCMB. This event is deeply connected to our brand’s identity, especially as our late founder, Otunba Michael Olasubomi Balogun, CON, was passionate about cultural heritage. We are proud to carry on that vision.” Also, in a statement, the bank noted that it had been the founder’s vision for the festival to grow, preserve its legacy and support economic development in Ijebu land and beyond by attracting tourists and creating opportunities for local businesses, artists and artisans.

Olojo hinted that next year’s edition may require a larger venue, considering the overwhelming crowd. “But the venue in front of the palace has great historical significance. We may have difficulty shifting the venue.”

The growing number of visitors at Ojude Oba makes it imperative to consider efficient measures for crowd control.

Otunba Sola Daudu, Bashorun of Jagunmolu Obinrin Fehintade spoke about the significance of the festival in uniting Ijebu sons and daughters.

“The festival gives us a chance to reconnect

with one another and pay homage to our Kabiyesi,” he said. “It also encourages every egbe (age group) to give back to the land.”

According to him, over 85 active groups participated this year, many of them engaged in developmental projects across Ijebu communities. “In our group, for instance, we renovated a school for children with special needs and conducted medical outreaches. Multiply that effort across all groups and the impact is huge,” he added.

On the major lineups for the festival, he said: “We are here to pay homage to Kabiyesi, Alaiyeluwa Oba (Dr) Sikiru Kayode Adetona, CFR JP Ogbagba II, the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebu land. Each egbe will take turns to pay homage to Kabiyesi and he will pray for us. Also, we are going to have the Balogun families coming in with their beautiful horses, and it will be a very colourful display. After that, we will break out into our social groups.”

On the economic benefit, he observed that hotel business and local businesses thrive during the Ojude Oba celebration.

The event also attracted several Nigerian celebrities including Lateef Adedimeji, Eniola Badmus, Femi Branch, Tobi Bakre, and Street hop artist Lil kesh, who added glamour and fanfare to the already colourful atmosphere.

Undoubtedly, the fashion display was, as always, a highlight. Men were dressed

in flowing agbada, richly embroidered in gold and silver, while women wore sparkling adire, ankara, and aso-oke, with matching jewellery and elegant headgear.

Remarkably, young women at the 2025 Ojude Oba added some flair by recreating urban street styles using the adire fabric. Some women changed the cultural narrative by riding the horses, thus making a historical and emphatic gender statement on the parade grounds.

The Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy described Ojude Oba as “one of Nigeria’s most iconic expressions of heritage, fashion, and community pride.”

In a statement, the ministry noted: “Ojude Oba is a shining testament to our cultural diversity and the strength of traditional institutions in preserving history for future generations.”

The event’s organising committee is led by the chairman, Chief Oluneye Bisola Okuboyejo, the Obasewa of Ijebu, and Chief Prof. Fassy Adetokunboh Yusuf, the coordinator, appreciated the support of all stakeholders. They noted that the festival is now a global cultural brand, positioning Ogun State as a major destination for cultural tourism.

The Ojude Oba Festival traces its origin to around 1825 when Muslim converts in Ijebu land began visiting the Awujale to thank him for granting them religious freedom. The visit, held three days after Eid-el-Kabir, grew over the decades to include Christians and traditionalists—turning the event into a grand symbol of inclusion and unity.

Faces at Ojude Oba, last week

Ojude Oba

festival, but an

The Wonders of Wike in Abuja

In Abuja, the buildings now hum with names. Halls echo not just with speeches but with signatures—etched in bronze, stencilled in symbolism. At the centre of this latest rebranding blitz is one man with a bulldozer’s resolve and a showman’s flourish: Nyesom Wike.

This week, the Federal Capital Territory Minister unveiled the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, formerly just the staid Abuja ICC. Not content with one dedication, Wike christened its flanking halls after Vice President Shettima, Senate President Akpabio, House Speaker Abbas, and Chief Justice Kekere-Ekun. It’s a full house of power—executive, legislative, and judicial—now immortalised in plaster and LED signage.

“Nothing has happened to this conference centre since 1991,” Wike declared, letting Nigerians understand the reasons for his actions. And now, like clockwork, every room has a new name, every name a political echo.

But this isn’t just about renovation— it’s about reclamation. The centre, once a relic of military-era grandeur, has been repackaged for a democratic age, albeit one increasingly shaped by strongman theatrics. Wike insists the transformation is thanks to President Tinubu’s leadership. Critics, like PDP’s Dele Momodu, suggest the bromance has blurred constitutional lines: “It’s looking like we have two presidents,” he quipped.

Tinubu, meanwhile, calls the critics “busybodies.” Wike? Unbothered. With a flair befitting a Shakespearean duke, he now charges ministries to pay rent before hosting events. “No more my-brother-mysister weddings,” he warned. The message: governance may be political theatre, but the stage will no longer be free.

In the capital of a country that often forgets to finish what it starts, Wike is finishing things—visibly, loudly, and with names that shout from the walls. Love him or loathe him, the man understands optics. Infrastructure here is narrative, and narrative, under Wike’s stewardship, has

Peacock Feathers and Political Shadows: The Yayi Drama at Ojude Oba 2025

Each year, the Ojude Oba festival blooms in Ijebuland like a riot of colour—horses prance, beads jingle, and the sun bounces off agbadas stitched with the ambition of kings. It’s culture as pageantry. But this year, something else shimmered beneath the embroidery: politics, sharp and deliberate.

Senator Solomon Adeola, more widely branded as Yayi, was supposed to chair the 2025 edition. Days before the festival, his name floated confidently on announcements. But as the drummers gathered, Yayi evaporated. Whispers followed like smoke.

Some say he was turned back at the expressway. Others, that security operatives had clear instructions. The palace, conveniently silent. The governor, noticeably distant. And Yayi? Absent, dramatically so.

A source close to the planning committee spoke of “disruption,” not the

In the warm hush of an Accra afternoon, two giants of modern West Africa—one political, one entrepreneurial—shared a quiet moment away from the flashbulbs. Dr. Mike Adenuga, Nigeria’s elusive mogul and telecoms titan, known in some circles as “The

kind that breaks tradition, but the sort that threatens succession plans. Yayi, a Senator from Ogun West, has spent years planting constituency projects like breadcrumbs across the state. To many, his presence at Ojude Oba would have read like an endorsement for his 2027 governorship dreams. Apparently, that was too loud for comfort.

Governor Dapo Abiodun, according to insider murmurs, made it clear: if Yayi shows, he won’t. The organisers chose silence over standoff. After all, in Ogun politics, grace often means stepping back without being pushed. There’s irony here. No Yewa-born politician has ever led the state since its creation in 1976, yet Yayi, born of Lagos but increasingly Yewa’s loudest son, believes he can rewrite that history. The governor, meanwhile, eyes a quieter succession—loyalists from Yewa who whisper, not trumpet.And so, in the middle of the drumming, one chair was left conspicuously unoccupied. Perhaps, at Ojude Oba, the only

thing more revealing than the horse

from the review stand.

Greatness Meets Greatness …Africa’s Pillar of Prosperity, Mike Adenuga Meets Ghanaian President

Spirit of Africa,” paid a private visit to Ghana’s President John Mahama on Monday, June 9, 2025. The meeting, held at the president’s residence, had no press conference, no joint statement, just a cordial nod between old allies navigating a continent in motion.

While aides stayed mum on specifics, the symbolism needed no translation. In the understated choreography of African leadership, these encounters speak volumes. Adenuga’s arrival—and same-day return to Lagos—suggests nothing short of strategic alignment between two centres of regional gravity.

It helps that both men are riding high. Mahama, re-elected in January after a triumphant return to office, is basking in Ghana’s economic bounce-back. The cedi has surged more than 40% this year, and Mahama

has wasted no time in recalibrating Ghana’s fiscal trajectory.

Adenuga, meanwhile, remains a continental force: Globacom just brought first-ever mobile coverage to Kura, a remote Nigerian village; and Conoil debuted the Obodo blend, Nigeria’s freshest crude grade. Still, Monday’s visit was not merely a victory lap. Behind the scenes, there are whisperings: cross-border investments, digital collaboration, telecom infrastructure. If Mahama is rebuilding Ghana’s economic edifice, few allies carry more weight than Adenuga whose ventures knit West Africa together from Lagos to Kumasi. Indeed, just weeks ago, Mahama publicly hailed Adenuga at the billionaire’s 72nd birthday celebration, calling him “a pillar of prosperity” and a beacon of continental ambition. In his words, Adenuga’s vision “has helped build not just businesses, but bridges between nations.”

How Dangote’s Mega Refinery is Redrawing Nigeria’s Oil Map

In a world where energy flows often obey invisible borders, Aliko Dangote is scribbling his own lines. From Ibeju-Lekki, the billionaire’s $20 billion refinery—the largest in Africa—is quietly reshaping Nigeria’s oil narrative, not by drilling deeper, but by looking west. Far west.

As Nigeria’s own crude falters under the weight of theft, neglect, and creaky pipelines, Dangote has turned to a surprising lifeline: US West Texas Intermediate (WTI). Once destined for Asian buyers, these lighter barrels are now flowing into Lagos by the millions. Nearly a third of the refinery’s feedstock is American, with imports nearly doubling since early 2024. Call it transatlantic pragmatism.

But this is no desperation play. WTI offers higher gasoline yields—just what Nigeria needs. And with China cooling its appetite amid trade tensions, Dangote stepped in, Vitol Group at his side, seizing the moment

like a maestro adjusting mid-performance. As of this summer, over 14 million barrels of WTI Midland had arrived, turning the tides of Nigeria’s fuel future.

Inside the sprawling 650,000 bpd complex, the machines hum with new confidence. From diesel and naphtha to gasoline and jet fuel— two million barrels of which were exported to the US in March—the output is growing, and so is the symbolism. This refinery isn’t just producing fuel; it’s rewriting Nigeria’s relationship with oil, after decades of importing what it exported.

The refinery also gestures to power and prestige. Dangote named its main artery after President Bola Tinubu, whose administration helped usher the project to life. That road now links not just refineries and fertilizer, but Lagos to West Africa’s broader economy. It is infrastructure, diplomacy, and legacy rolled into one.

Ojulari Still Turns on the Lights at 60

If the Nigerian oil sector were a symphony, Bashir Bayo Ojulari would be its quiet conductor— precise, steady, rarely needing to raise his baton. Now 60, the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) doesn’t just oversee crude and condensates; he shepherds faith. Unlike the boisterous titans of the global oil stage, Ojulari didn’t thunder in. He slipped in through steel corridors and flare-lit nights, where pipelines snake through mangroves and trust is buried deeper than hydrocarbons. In a country where energy policy often burns

hotter than the gas itself, Ojulari’s ascent was a masterclass in calm competence.

His fingerprints are everywhere, but he never leaves them smudged. Before helming the NNPCL, he led Renaissance Africa Energy’s audacious $2.4 billion acquisition of Shell’s onshore assets—a homegrown reclamation of control in a space long dominated by foreign accents and offshore interests. It wasn’t just a deal; it was a declaration.

Yet, the man who restructured supply chains and soothed foreign investors still is very humble. Indeed, his kind of leadership doesn’t swagger; it steadies. Inside the NNPCL, change is underway—not heralded by press releases,

but felt in reformed procurement systems and unspoken trust returning to the corridors.

And if one leans in closely, past the jargon of reform and refinery turnarounds, they’ll hear something rare: a company rediscovering its conscience. That, too, is Ojulari’s doing. At 60, he’s neither coasting nor crowing. He’s recalibrating Nigeria’s energy future—one policy at a time, one person at a time. His legacy may not be cast in bronze, but in barrels lifted, jobs restored, and a public slowly remembering what it means to believe in institutions.

For a sector that is long run on fumes of public skepticism, Ojulari remains a renewable source of something deeper: credibility.

And that, in Nigeria’s house of oil, is no small flame.

Adenuga

ojulari

wike

Dangote

parade is who’s missing

Yayi

The Senator, Silence, and Showdown: Natasha vs. Akpabio

In the corridors of Nigeria’s red chamber, where policy and power perform their delicate pas de deux, a tempest brews. It has a name: Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. And a target: Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

It began, as these things often do, with a microphone and a moment. Natasha, one of only four women in Nigeria’s 109-seat Senate, alleged in a televised interview that she had been sexually harassed by the Senate President. What followed was not an inquiry—but a gavel. In a move equal parts theatrical and chilling, the Senate suspended her for six months. The ethics committee cited “unruly and disruptive behaviour.” Others saw something darker: the silencing of dissent, the punishment of a woman who dared to speak.

She called it injustice. The court seemed to nod in agreement.

Last week, the Abuja Court of Appeal quietly struck down two procedural motions filed by Akpabio—motions aimed at slowing down Natasha’s legal challenge to her suspension.

Between Basiru and Aregbesola

In Osun State politics, everything important can seem complicated. And then, it can seem so simple. Such is the case of Senator Ajibola Basiru, National Secretary of Nigeria’s ruling APC and a rising gubernatorial hopeful.

Basiru has been doing the political equivalent of sidestepping banana peels: denying any romantic political overture towards his once-estranged godfather, Rauf Aregbesola.

“No emissaries,” his camp insists. “No secret alliances.” Nothing to see here—just a man with principles, and a 20-year loyalty handshake with President Bola Tinubu still firmly intact.

And yet, whispers swirl.

Insiders in both the Basiru and Bola Oyebamiji camps murmur the same tune: “We are in touch with Aregbesola.” The former governor—once exiled from Osun APC politics, now a free radical in the field—has become the gravitational centre of unlikely rapprochements.

Basiru’s supporters say reports of contact

Symbols and ceremonies are real things, even for individuals who consider themselves dispassionate. But even for these people, few honours carry the quiet thunder of a

are fiction. But politics in Nigeria, like jazz, often sounds off-beat until you learn to listen. Recent political moves—like Tinubu’s open-armed reception of Governor Ademola Adeleke and family—have set off fire alarms within Osun APC ranks. The Adeleke-Tinubu moment didn’t just irritate—it rewrote the room.

In this new light, Basiru’s denials seem less like declarations and more like choreography— each word carefully balanced to avoid offending Tinubu, alienating Aregbesola, or surrendering strategic ambiguity.

Meanwhile, the Oyebamiji camp hums the same hymn, pointing fingers and whispering of deals being struck “in principle.” Allegations bounce back and forth like table tennis in a smoky parlour. It’s not a courtship, they say. But the dance looks familiar.

Both aspirants, once antagonists in the intra-party drama, now eye the same outcast kingmaker. Because in Osun, politics has no memory—only momentum.

For now, the Basiru-Aregbesola story remains Schrödinger’s alliance: denied in public,

The court not only dismissed them but also awarded N100,000 against Akpabio. A symbolic sum, perhaps—but symbols matter.

Outside the Assembly gates, the drama unfolded like Greek tragedy meets Nollywood street play. Protesters gathered in choreographed dissonance—some chanting “Akpabio must go,” others swearing loyalty to their embattled President of the Senate. Women’s rights groups decried the suspension as a blow to female representation in politics. “Today is a sad day for Nigerian women,” said activist Hadiza Ado.

Behind every legal filing and political maneuver, a question lingers: Was this about discipline, or deterrence? Natasha remains defiant. She vows to continue her pursuit of justice, even if barred from the chamber that once embraced her.

In a country where power often trumps principle, one senator’s suspension has stirred a rare reckoning. For now, the courtroom is her new chamber. And her voice? Still ringing.

whispered in private, politically alive either way. It’s all complex—until it’s simple. And simple may arrive in 2026.

Senator Oluremi Tinubu: Woman of the Moment

chieftaincy title bestowed outside one’s native land. Yet on a serene Tuesday in Enugu, Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, became the Ugosimba 1—“jewel from another kingdom.”

There’s music in that title. Not just in its syllables, but in what it whispers about Nigeria’s shifting centre of gravity. A Yoruba woman, the wife of the president was honoured by Igbo traditional rulers for service, unity, and grace. In a nation often choreographed by ethnic tension, this was a bold pirouette toward solidarity.

But it wasn’t just a symbolic dance. Senator Remi’s visit to Enugu was stitched with substance. From distributing 10,000 medical kits to midwives to announcing a N50 million grant for petty traders, her steps were deliberate, her presence—formidable. And as she stood in traditional coral regalia, smiling in deference to Igwe Asadu and his council, it was clear this moment belonged not only to politics, but to history.

“I feel inner peace here,” she said. And that

sentiment resonates deeper than protocol.

This isn’t her first act in Nigeria’s civic theatre. From pioneering educational bursaries for girls to pledging N100 million to creative learning, her Renewed Hope Initiative has matured into a national scaffolding—one that links maternal health, arts education, and microenterprise under a single, woman-led roof.

Critics may question whether soft diplomacy can heal a fractured polity. But one cannot ignore the optics—or the outcomes—of a First Lady who uses both budget and ceremony to seed unity and equity across regions.

In Enugu, First Lady Remi didn’t just receive a crown. She extended a hand.

And in the mosaic that is Nigeria, perhaps Ugosimba signals more than a title. Perhaps it hints at the quiet forging of a new, cross-cultural femininity—measured not just in influence, but in inclusion.

Gospel According to Umo Eno: Separation from Godfather, Emmanuel

By the time Pastor Umo Eno clasped hands with the All Progressives Congress (APC) on that fateful Friday, he had already done the math. The kind that has little to do with conviction, and everything to do with calculus. Political calculus.

Two years after inheriting the throne of Akwa Ibom from Udom Emmanuel—his political godfather turned bitter accuser— Governor Eno performed a full-blown pentecostal pivot. From the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) pulpit that birthed his rise, he vaulted into the APC chapel, robes flying, flanked by converts both reluctant and enthusiastic.

The betrayal, Emmanuel declared, was total. “Desperate,” he called his successor. And the drama? Delicious. For a man who handpicked Eno—passing over loyal stalwarts—the sense of apostasy stings. But politics in Nigeria is rarely about loyalty; it’s about alignment. And for Eno, alignment meant proximity to the federal centre, and,

perhaps, the elusive deep-sea port Akwa Ibom has prayed for since its founding.

To his credit, the governor didn’t jump alone. Thirty-one local government chairmen, nearly every commissioner, and most of the legislature clapped along. A political exodus so sweeping it left the PDP looking like a choir mid-song with half the sopranos gone.

Still, not everyone sang the new tune. Commissioner Ini Ememobong, seasoned in survival and old grudges, politely declined. His refusal had less to do with principle than the spectre of serving under Godswill Akpabio— his old foe, now APC kingpin. That kind of political déjà vu could curdle anyone’s ambition.

Yet this isn’t just a story of betrayal and bandwagons. It’s also one of recalibration. With the Senate President holding court in Abuja, and Eno now on Team Tinubu, the state’s political fortunes are shifting fast. For once, the question isn’t who defected—but what Akwa Ibom hopes to gain. Unity? Development? Or just a front-row seat in a new, evolving gospel of

One thing is clear: In 2027, this hymn

There’s nothing quite like Nigerian air travel to humble even the proudest of egos. But at Murtala Muhammed Airport’s Zulu Terminal last Wednesday, humility was not on the manifest.

Senator Adams Oshiomhole, a former labour leader, ex-governor, and current political pugilist, reportedly arrived fashionably late for his 6:30 a.m. Air Peace flight to Abuja. Not “traffic-on-ThirdMainland-Bridge” late. More like “block-the-terminal-and-hold-thenation-hostage” late.

Sources say Oshiomhole, upon finding the gates shut and the checkin counters closed, did what any selfrespecting Nigerian VIP might do— he parked himself and his entourage in front of the terminal, effectively freezing operations. Flights stalled. Tempers flared. And a senator who once led street protests was now the cause of one.

Air Peace, for its part, stood firm. The flight departed. The gate remained closed. And the senator, denied his airborne perch, demanded accountability—not of himself, but of the airline. He later claimed he’d checked in online and arrived “just past 6:00”—plenty early, in his view, for a 6:30 departure.

But here’s where the story takes flight: Oshiomhole alleged a deeper rot. That passengers like him were denied boarding, not because of tardiness, but to free up seats resold at three times the price. A woman with a baby, he claimed, was bumped and then asked to pay over N250,000 to reboard. He even paid her fare—N500,000 out of pocket, he said.

Air Peace has yet to comment. The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, equally silent. What remains is a vivid tableau of Nigeria’s twin afflictions: political impunity and commercial opportunism. Whether Oshiomhole was a victim, a villain, or both is beside the point. The real cost is borne by the everyday travelers— stranded, overcharged, unheard.

In the end, this was not just about a missed flight. It was a parable of Nigerian public life, where accountability always seems to board last.

Akpabio

Natasha

Basiru

Aregbesola

Tinubu

Oshiomhole

eave w ole Soyinka Alone, p lease

JAMeS IborI eT Al: we Are grATeFUl

The final forgiveness of my egbon, the wonderful Babajide SanwoOlu, the Governor of this our Lagos State has come and gone. In fact, to show that he has been totally forgiven, he was seen escorting the greatest president currently in Africa, President Bola Tinubu back to Abuja after causing so much traffic in Lagos.

But wait o, did you guys see how Sanwo-Olu tried so hard not to step on the red carpet as he and his principal walked towards the aircraft. Bobo was very careful before he finds himself in another soup.

Anyways, I want to seize the opportunity to thank all the elders who helped us in this matter, paramount being my very senior elder, the wonderful Chief James Ibori. In the heat of the matter, I knew that Chief Ibori was the answer. I sent very secret messages to Sanwo-Olu’s camp that Ibori was the secret weapon. They said no joor, that they will try GAC with a splinter of juju. I said it won’t work, that His Excellency was the key.

This Baba has really suffered at the hands of his tormentors. Any little thing he does, they attack him with no respect. The way they move against this centurion is scary. Apparently, he was part of those given national awards by this administration, ostensibly to reward them for their service to democracy, according to those who gave them the awards. Just as we were about to rush to Abeokuta or whichever forest the sage is living in now to beg him to at least dress well this time – last time Baba dressed well was when he collected his Nobel in 1986.

Since then, his style has been a cross between Lakunle Ojo, the drunk in the old Village Headmaster and Boniface, the Calabar houseboy to Bassey Okon in the same sitcom – Nigerians attacked, accusing him of all sorts. They wondered, why is he accepting this one

They ignored me and continued. The snub at the airport happened, they persisted. It was at the commissioning of the expressway which goes nowhere, that the “babanla isho” snub happened. This made them reach back in panic and said, “Duke, we give up,” and I replied: “Get Ibori,” and they said “ahhhh. Ibori was last seen in his village trying to learn palm wine tapping skills.”

Anyways, when I saw the “all is forgiven” memo in the papers, I quickly rushed to see those who went to plead and when I saw Chief Ibori’s name, I just knew that my advice was taken.

So going forward, any godfather/ godson problem that does not involve wife snatching but pure political fight, Chief James Ibori is your man for sustainable conflict resolution. Thank you so much sir, we are grateful.

NollYwooD cAllINg oN pAUl

ADeFArASIN

He drove his gleaming Range Rover towards the intersection. The poor and jobless car spotter pulled out his camera and the pastor

and refusing Jonathan’s? I am just tired. Why disturb a man so close to 100 for every little thing he does or doesn’t do? If you ask me, it’s just cowardice.

The people that are beating us, causing ‘go slow’ all over the place, renaming national monuments after themselves and generally just sticking their tongues at us while giving us an enema, we are not pushing on. It is Kongi who is now more interested in communing with Olodumare that we are all monitoring up and down.

Mbok, Daddy has decided to accept his honour from his paddy who drank garri and epa with him in exile instead of accepting from another one who didn’t lift a finger during the period. His rights, his decision, his conscience. How this affects the price of garri in the market is what I really don’t understand. Thank you!

elegantly wound down, pointed something at the irritant and with a scowl like Samuel L. Jackson drove very slowly away. That was Nollywood-worthy, I swear. Someone should kindly look at giving this pastor a role in one of these huge Nollywood movies. Baba is handsome, tall with sexy muscles. His gray beards remind you of the iconic Sean Connery, and his verbal delivery is top notch. I swear if baba enters Nollywood, he will give RMD a fight o.

You know RMD has the monopoly of sexy elders kissing young girls in Nollywood.

My people, this episode really “tire” the pastor to the extent that he climbed the pulpit to explain one or two things – they have come against the people of God; it is Satan. He cooed with his zombified congregation clapping and praising God that the devil did not catch their fine pastor. Mbok, this particular pastor does not come across as if he truly likes we the poor people. The other day, a danfo scratched his car and heaven was distracted, today na

car spotter and Lagos will not hear word.

The arrogance is legendary, the aloofness is not of this world and this is why the whole thing exploded the way it did. Daddy should have just smiled and waved and driven off, sparing us this unnecessary drama. Na wa oo.

FArooq oreAgbA: THe MYSTIc oF THe MoMeNT

Ok, let me explain. Gentleman Farooq had a moment at last year’s Ojude Oba. A moment is when all the forces align and create magic. It is not planned, it cannot be predicted, it just occurs.

The bread seller in Yaba is one example. She was just walking on her own and the moment happened and she became a star. One unique thing about the moment is that it cannot be recreated. Nothing you do can bring it back. It happens and that is it.

This year, I saw my brother trying so hard to live to the billing of being Mr. Steeze. He has done everything he needed to do but sadly, the moment cannot come back. It is a moment of magic that nobody sees

Adefarasin Abacha

okonkwo

Ibori

Soyinka

coming. Happens on the football field, just a moment of pure magic, happens in concerts – Michael Jackson had many.

The lone man at the Tiananmen Square during the protest in China facing the armoured tanks, all were moments that can never be replicated.

I must however thank Farooq very profusely for his energy, passion and fun that he displayed this year. He was the face, the main symbol and the one that we all looked out for. Moment or no moment, Farooq was indeed the star of the movement and cynosure of all eyes and for this, I say well done bro.

AbUbAkAr kYArI, wHAT’S GoING oN?

The circular asking for prayers and fasting on a weekly basis by the ministry whose job it is to provide us with food has gone very far. I had received it so much on my phone that I was beginning to be irritated

I first thought it was fake news since I don’t believe that any right thinking public official would dare try this as policy.

Then I now saw a report in a credible national newspaper that the joker - a Director in the ministry had sent another circular postponing the event.

Mbok how do we even comprehend this kind thing. This is what, if it is true that women used to put their hands across their chest, bend their heads to one side and say - I tire.

If person as Minister or director or permanent secretary have run out of ideas, why - he no just go back him village-instead of embarrassing President Tinubu like this.

This is mediocrity at its highest level and sadly, nothing will come out of this because there is an election coming and they ‘need all hands on deck’ including the ‘mumu’ hands

This was truly a country, I swear. I tire.

keNNeTH okoNkwo: THe

TrANSGeNDer polITIcIAN

Mbok, this man has finished my governor o. Kai! He called him “transgender politician” on national TV and despite all attempts by the beautiful ARISE NEWS anchors to pull him back, he kept mouthing it – he is a transgender politician. He is a transgender politician. Since Governor Eno has done his follow follow decampment, he has been inundated with all sorts of abuse and pressure. But this one by this actor, lawyer-turned-politician is the icing on the cake.

Mbok, which one is transgender politician again o? Someone has to “catch” Mr. Okonkwo to come and better explain this thing for us o. Is he saying that our governor is not a man? Or that he has strange genitals or was he simply using that term to describe his political machinations which have truly been quite confusing?

You know how you look at those “sissy boys” in confusion seeing

them with both male and female organs and mannerisms, that is how we are being confused with Governor Eno’s policies. Maybe that is why Mr. Okonkwo gave him this label.

Anyways, the best thing is for him to come back and better explain himself because we Akwa Ibom people would like to know very succinctly what he truly means o. Do we have a “bobrisky” in our government house in Uyo? Mbok, fear is catching me o Kennetttttthhhhh, where are you ooo? Kai!

HID

JeSUTeGA oNokpASA – wHAT HAppeNeD?

Aghhh!!! This one is truly shocking o. The terse announcement of his passing has sent shock waves all over the nation. This ex-staunch supporter of President Tinubu who later recanted and started fighting him has been reported dead, just like that.

I last saw him at the ARISE TV studios in Abuja where we were on the same panel discussing some of Nigeria’s very pressing problems. For me that encounter was boring because by this time, he had

Awolowo AND

THe STormY DebATe

You know that I can look for trouble, especially women’s trouble. That was how I wrote an essay asking just how many men can today describe their wives as jewels of inestimable value. If you did not go to the secondary school that Editor went to, you would have heard that Chief Obafemi Awolowo at the prime of his career had described his wife the influential Chief HID Awolowo as a jewel of inestimable value.

In the article, I talked about her qualities and much more importantly, I mentioned her contributory powers to that of the late sage while still not climbing that one’s head.

As expected, the women came at me. You know I am not afraid of them as I am celibate. That is the worst they will do to me – deny me of sex and me, I am kuku not doing again.

One very telling response was a rejoinder written by a female lawyer. She queried if I had even considered how Awolowo treated his jewel in the first place. You know how women used to like to

come back with obstructive arguments. Here I am saying that why can’t you all be like HID Awolowo and instead of them to just answer, they are answering my question with questions. Why not go to Ikenne and be asking Awo’s statue that question. What has Awo’s behaviour got to do with my point and question. How many women today can be described as jewels of inestimable value whether their men are Awolowo or Tuface? You see Mama’s qualities were sound irrespective of who she was married to.

Trying to tie her sterling qualities to Awo’s behaviour is denigrating the very sweet mother and wife. It is saying that if Awo was like Charly Boy, then Mama would not have been a jewel.

That is the problem with our women, always looking for fault everywhere but themselves. Mbok, leave Chief Awolowo out of this and answer a simple question – how many of our women can be described as jewels of inestimable value? If I answer, they will beat me I swear.

already recanted and as such, we didn’t have a good “fight.” He was just agreeing with me and the thing was paining me as I was expecting fireworks.

Anyways, I wish him eternal rest and also wish his family the strength to bear this obviously painful loss. Rest in peace bro.

SANI AbAcHA: SIleNce of THe wolf

A lot of people did not realise that the anniversary of the death of this man had just passed. This is why we preach legacy. With what he carried our eye to see, it is no wonder that a lot of people did not even notice that it was time for remembrance.

Apart from the usual full-page advert by his family, nothing of note was arranged by anybody to mark the day. Even me, I did not eat afang to celebrate the day. I just slept and watched porn. Remember they say it was an apple from an Indian – if you gerrit, you gerrit, and if you don’t gerrit, forget abourit. Lol. Abacha’s legacy should be a lesson for our maximum ruler who is renaming everything around us in his name – I hear it is the main gate to the abattoir in Agege that is next. Legacy and how history views our leaders can be harsh. History does not decamp, it does not take bribes, it cannot be compromised and would say it as it is like how it is saying it for Sani Abacha.

I can only wish him well at this juncture and pray that God should have forgiven him his sins and have already granted him eternal peace. For the ones still alive, they should spare God the hard work of granting waivers for leaders with bad behaviour and just do the right thing now that they are in power, because I will not beg again. The one we have done for Abacha is enough, it’s not only Nigeria that God created, mbok.

obI ASIkA: DoING A YeomAN’S Job Asika is doing a job at the National Council of Arts and Culture. He is rebuilding, remodelling and strengthening the space with his innovative ideas backed by a huge history of being a major player of international repute.

The other day, I saw him endorsing the Things Fall Apart Festival coming on at some point in Enugu. This is one of those initiatives that he is backing and that is bringing back the much needed vibrancy in the community.

Was with him the other day in his office in Abuja and we discussed very deeply and clearly the space of which I am a major stakeholder.

Even though he didn’t give me any food – imagine o, I was just looking at this Baba. I talk, talk, talk to the point that if anybody opens the door, I will turn to see if na food but nothing. Anyway, it was a beautiful experience as Obi showed his dexterity in all areas of the industry. I am sorry, I haven’t written about the experience since I came back for very obvious reasons as mentioned. Next time Obi, when a titled man comes to your office, you give him afang.

Thank you.

late HID Awolowo

Grand Bonny: King Perekule XI @ 60

The political hiatus plaguing River State notwithstanding, the various constituent communities and her people have not fallen into any state of despair as to discard the symbols of their cultural identities and heritage.

One of such notable communities is the Kingdom of Grand Bonny-located at the Southernmost-Litoral part of the state and arguably the star of the erstwhile five city states of the old oil Rivers fame, where the ‘‘Perekule dynasty’’ holds sway and her current monarch, King Edward Ashimini William Dappa Pepple III, Edward I, DSSRS, JP, CON. Perekule XI sits as the 23rd Amayanabo (King) and national ruler of the ancient kingdom.

He is also the 11th sovereign of a longline of illustrious monarchs to have occupied the famous Perekule (Pepple) royal stool since 1700 when the legendary King Perekule I (1700-1754) established it as the 2nd dynasty (in Bonny monarchical history) and at a youthful age of 30 years-ruling the kingdom for 54 long years.

King Edward Ashimini William Dappa Pepple III was born on Friday, June 11, 1965 according to records, proclaimed king on Saturday, April 6 and coronated on Saturday December 21 both in 1996 at an equally youthful age of 31 years and now in the 29th year of his eventful reign-as he attained the proverbial diamond age of 60 years on Wednesday, 11th June 11, 2025 and still counting.

Indeed, most persons who are familiar with his Royal Majesty- King Edward William Dappa Pepple, III would easily attest to his enduring love for a tranquil lifestyle and very moderate celebrative activities- whenever it becomes inevitable. However, Bonny indigenes, friends and well-wishers of this amiable monarch who yearly celebrated his birthday with Pristine Solemnity- have chosen to take it a notch-higher this year for their king- to whom caring for his people is never a burden.

His birthday anniversary activities followed a well-publicised programme of events by the Central Planning Committee beginning from

Tuesday, 10th June, at 7pm with the Bonny Women Prayers Match which terminated in front of the royal palace with songs of praise and prayers to God for the king’s well-being. This was followed by fireworks and canon shots at 1am- early Wednesday morning to herald the birthday proper and at daybreak- the usual thanksgiving and benedictory service was held at Stephen’s Cathedral (Anglican Communion) Grand Bonny.

The presiding Bishop, RT Rev. OkoJaJa, conducted the service attended by a large host of dignitaries which included His Excellency Siminialayi Fubara, GSSRS. The royal celebrant adorned an all-black embroidered royal apparel with a fitting mini crown to match- flanked by his queen to his left and Fubara to his right and gestured joyfully to the congregation during the rendition of ‘‘happy birthday to you’’ by the choir- ending with Fanny Crosby’s timeless hymn of thanksgiving- ‘‘To God be the Glory-Great things he hath done.’’

The royal motor cade stopped briefly at the King’s Square as cultural displays were on to welcome him back from service, where he step out of his vehicle to acknowledge the drummers who relentlessly greeted him in the dynasty’s drum name. Next day, Thursday, June 12 was the King’s visitation to the General Hospital Bonny where he empathized with the sick and infirm amidst cultural and Masquerade displays by various groups. These activities continued till Saturday when a novelty football march between Port Harcourt All Stars and NLNG Teams was played. The all-night party that was to round off the Grand Monde- by the Youth Federation actually began on Wednesday and rounded off on Saturday, June 14, 2025. However, where such a service is conducted outside Grand Bonny as it was the case in 2023 when the king

turned 58 years old- it was the Port-Harcourt Choral Society’s Choir that took the centre stage in a modest celebration within the Palace Ground in Port Harcourt and rendered John Marriott’s captivating hymnal- ‘‘Thou whose Almighty word, chaos and darkness heard and took their flight’’ to the enormous delight of the king, the royals and all the guests present. This was followed by his interactive call amongst the assemblage of guests to appreciates them for their presence. Why, does the king adopt this yearly birthday commemorative regimenalways set in motion by a commemorative thanksgiving service?

A quick search for an answer would be to Speak of the leadership style of the dynasty he represents: - a dynasty that was the first to embrace Christianity and made Grand Bonny the centre of its spread to other oil Rivers City States; a dynasty that humbles itself under the mighty hand of God and bountifully reaps His exaltations. Putting God first over everything else is the indelible Creed bequeathed by his famous Great, Great, Great-Grand Father- ‘‘William Dappa Pepple I; Perekule V (1817-1866)often referred to as ‘‘the Black Monarch’’, who was the first to pay the horrible price of the unjust deportation from his kingdom but still found his way to London where he converted to Christianity after a breakfast meeting with Queen Victoria of Great Britain during his exile, and where he had asked her ‘‘the source of Great Britain’s Power and Influence’’ and in reply the Queen pointed at the ‘‘Holy Bible’’. He returned to regain his throne adopting ‘‘William’’ as his baptismal name and turned his back and his entire Kingdom (Grand Bonny) against idolatry and worship of idols forever. The royal celebrant is famous for his calm dignity and doubly famous for his quiet diplomacy which he employs to achieve stated objectives- including youth engagements generally. His passion for kingdom-wide development follows a well-known dynastic pedigree of inclusiveness, openness and unfeigned love for his people which led him to encourage the formation of Community-Based Organisation (CBOs) such as Bonny Kingdom Development Committee (BKDC) and many others as avenues for community citizens engagements in order to address their expectations in a rational manner.

Furthermore and just like his own father –King Eugene William Dappa Pepple II Perekule IX (1923-1972), used quiet diplomacy to secure the approval of the first Republic Prime Minister of Nigeria for the construction of Bonny-Bomu Road (as it was then known) in the 60s following the establishment of Shell-SPDC oil Terminal in Bonny in 1961- as an introspective but veritable means for the evacuation of his people to safety- in case of an oil blow-out or associated operational and environmental disaster; so also HRM has successfully employed same tool to persuade successive governments since the birth of the Fourth Republic, beginning with former President Obasanjo to resuscitate that road project- (now renamed Bonny-Boddo road) which, baring all unforeseen circumstances maybe commissioned for use by Bonny people and the general public before the end of this year. The king is a certified lover of the round leather Game of Football which he always use as a platform for active youth engagements. This was the case during his birthday celebration of last year 2024- in Grand Bonny Island where a commemorative football tournament was organised to kick start the social segment of the celebrations involving Port Harcourt All Stars Team and another, at the end of which HRM gave out prizes to winners and others who distinguished themselves. Similarly, he regularly gives out new pairs of football boots to talented upcoming and promising youths whom he discovers at football playing grounds from time to time.

Leadership, we have often heard, is about making others better as a result of one’s presence and beneficial leadership is indeed what this king wears as a badge of honour. These and more are the thrust of the beneficent credentials of this king who is ceasely commended for managing his people’s expectations very well and in appreciation of which they routinely standup to celebrate HRM whenever occasions arise.

Wa mina- Amayanabo, boma fini iyere piri, Tamuno duma paa ipiri- Gbesa, gbesa. To God be the glory. Sixty hearty diamond cheers to King Edward I and long may you reign. Long live Perekule dynasty of Grand Bonny Kingdom.

Solomon e. LeggJack

L-r: Fubara, King edward Ashimini William Dappa Pepple iii and his wife

ARTS & REVIEW ARTS &

Feeling West Africa’s Creative Pulse from the Canvas of Commerce

an upcoming art exhibition, under the auspices of the west africa economic Summit, promises to be a vibrant celebration of the region’s rich cultural heritage and creative potential, showcasing the dynamic role of culture in driving sustainable development and innovation. okechukwu Uwaezuoke reports

Featuring a rich cultural programme, WAES (West Africa Economic Summit) promises to deliver an unforgettable experience. Hence, beyond the buzz of delegates attending the summit at Abuja’s International Conference Centre (now bearing the President’s name), lies a rich cultural spectacle awaiting unveiling. From June 20 to 21, WAES will feature an art exhibition that is an integral part of the summit’s DNA, promising a fusion of art, economics, and West African flair that will elevate attendees to a new level of experience. As attendees step into the venue, the palpable creative energy of the sub-region should come alive, attesting to a story that has been unfolding over the past five decades. But this story of the past five decades will not be unfurled in dry timelines, but rather in a vibrant, living odyssey of colour and form. Works evoking the era of the Pan-African Art Movement’s bold strokes as well as the electric vibrancy of Dakar ’66 and FESTAC ’77 transport viewers to an era of artistic revolution. These reminders of a foundational era where artists, egged on by post-colonial winds of change, first began to assert a complex, indigenous identity should immerse viewers in this rich narrative, offering a nuanced understanding of the region’s creative landscape.

Rallying around the theme Unleashing West Africa’s Creative Economy, the exhibition will, at its very heart, pulsate with a different kind of currency: the vibrant, undeniable force of creativity. Twenty-five West African artists with their diverse mediums attesting to a region refusing to be boxed in, embody the dynamic spirit championed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who places the young and creative at the forefront of Africa’s agenda. Their work highlights the creative economy’s immense potential, poised to become a global powerhouse generat-

ing revenue, creating jobs, and exporting a unique cultural vision. As visitors explore the exhibition, which evokes five decades of artistic and cultural expression, they should gain a deeper understanding of the sub-region’s rich heritage and visual identity. From traditional roots to contemporary innovations, the evolution of West African art is a story that is worth telling and retelling.

The exhibition for this reason should feel like a walk through layers of a shared soul. It should seethe with resilience etched into every piece, celebrate the rich, heterogenous mosaic of cultures across ECOWAS, and embody hopes of new economic frontiers. Indeed, it isn’t just about aesthetics; it is also a strategic conversation starter. As investors and policymakers move between summit sessions, they will likely find themselves drawn into dialogues sparked by powerful artworks or haunting ambiance. This show, curated by Nduwhite Ndubuisi Ahanonu, scours into the deep, multi-layered heritage that represents the visual language of Africans, both before and after colonisation. Hence, its aim remains to build bridges, fostering bilateral relationships grounded in shared cultural understanding, strengthening Nigeria’s position as a cultural superpower and its leadership of ECOWAS.

So, why does this exhibition matter? Besides being a tour de force of cultural diplomacy, it masterfully weaves together West Africa’s rich heritage and regional solidarity to cement Nigeria’s status as a cultural superpower. But its impact goes far beyond the cultural realm – it is a clarion call to unlock the creative economy’s potential as a major driver of employment and revenue, with global export

possibilities waiting to be tapped.

With an all-star cast of 11 artists, including the legendary Bruce Onobrakpeya and a new generation of luminaries like Victor Ehikhamenor, Gerald Chukwuma, Jacqueline Suowari, and Krydz Ikwuemesi, among others, Nigeria takes centre stage. Through their works, and those of their fellow West African artists, the sub-region’s narrative is being rewritten – a powerful blend of creativity, heritage, and collaboration that transcends borders and forges new paths. The region’s artistic prowess shines through, as it tells its own story, on its own terms.

This exhibition, in other words, underscores the dynamic role of culture in driving sustainable development and innovation, aligning with the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and UNESCO’s cultural policies. Here, it is the subregion’s creative potential that is taking the centre stage, and the artists are poised to seize its moment. With President Tinubu’s words – “This is not a time for hesitation. It is a time for reckoning” – as a rallying cry, the artists are being called upon to highlight that the region’s potential. “We have spent too long admiring our potential and too little time activating it,” the president adds.

Thus, the West Africa Economic Summit in Abuja is the apt catalyst for resetting the economic future, with its visionary West African artists being part of the conversation, blending tradition with innovation in works that pulse with energy, whisper ancient patterns, and map futuristic dreams.

Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, offers pragmatic insight: “We don’t need a new wheel, just get the existing one turning.” It is, therefore, time for West Africa to unite and propel its economic future forward, moving in tandem across 15 member states. The momentum is building; the region’s future hangs in the balance. Will it ride the wave of change or get left behind?

A sculpture by Nigerian sculptor, Steve Ekpenisi

Composition en bleu au triangle rouge (textile) by Malian artist, Abdoulaye Konate

A Veil of Dreams and Longing by Nigerian artist, Abdulwahab Idris.

Deepening the Killing of Nigeria Softly: Ground Rent and Nyesom Wike’s Threats of Diplomatic Violations

Nyesom Wike is a lawyer. Therefore, in the context of Nigeria, he is considered very learned. He was a former Executive Governor of Rivers State. Consequently, he had experienced what it means to hold state land in trust for the people of his State. Currently, he is the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, where he is much preoccupied with the issue of land, especially in terms of allocation and payment of annual ground rents.

Without any jot of doubt, if, for whatever reason, allotees are required to pay for the rental of the land on which they have their houses, good citizenship requires prompt payment without exercise of iota of pressure. For various reasons of force majeure, a tenant of the land might not be disposed to make quick payment within a certain delay. It is important to differentiate between non-payment for several years or decades and non-payment for the current year. What is done in civilized bureaucracies is that notices are given to tenants before the time of expiration of the current year of payment. Reminders are also sent. In Nigeria, it is completely different a kettle of fish and threats galore. The threats, most unfortunately, are driven by inefficiency, remissness, and lack of finesse in political governance.

In the Vie Internationale of last week Sunday, I drew public attention to the many ways of killing Nigeria softly. The following day, Monday, June 2, 2025, Nyesom Wike placed an advert in some newspapers demanding that ground rent defaulters were given two weeks to settle their rents or face the repercussion of withdrawal of their Certificates of Occupancy (C of O). I pointed out that for the property I paid for in 2004, the C of O was yet to be given to me, even as of this time of writing. Does the FCT Minister not know that many houses have been revoked in the past but the new tenants have not been able to settle in peace? Does he not remember that Nigeria has not only signed, ratified and domesticated the 1961 and 1963 Vienna Conventions on Diplomatic and Consular Relations respectively? Most disturbingly, does he not ponder on the implications of threatening and having to violate embassies in Nigeria?

Deepening the Killing of Nigeria Softly

The killing of Nigeria softly began with her very porous foundation. Great Britain, Nigeria’s colonial master, knew quite well that Nigeria had many tribes whose ‘tongues may differ.’ According to Nigeria’s NationalAnthem, ‘though tribe and tongue may differ, in brotherhood we stand.’ The Anthem adds that all Nigerians are ‘proud to serve our Sovereign Motherland.’ Most unfortunately, Nigerian leaders never allowed the opportunity to truly build a Sovereign Motherland. Nigeria, since 1960, has been without true Nigerians and those of us known as Nigerians do not have a Nigeria founded on patriotism to exist. It is quite arguable to posit that Nigeria is a nation. This partly explains why Chief Obafemi Awolowo rightly described Nigeria as a geographical expression.

Chief Awolowo could not have been more correct. Nigerians deceive themselves by accepting international designation of Nigeria as a nation-state. Nigeria is not a nation-state. Nigeria can be rightly described as a State on the basis of the criteria of international law which stipulates the union of government, population, and territory as constituent elements of a State. Put differently, there must be a government that has the capacity and capability to implement the State’s internationally-contracted obligations, as well as be able to maintain law and orderliness. There must also be a territory without which there will be no place to exercise the right of sovereignty. The same is true if there is no population. Leadership is, at best, meaningless if there is no followership. Government without population is meaningless.

Nigeria meets these criteria. Even though one school of thought argues that it is not sufficient to meet the three conditions to enter into international relations. The School argues that a State must still be recognized as a State before it can establish diplomatic relations with another sovereign State. For Nigeria, the criteria are not only met as a sovereign State, but has also been internationally

• Wike

recognized. This international recognition is best explained by the fact of admission of Nigeria as the 99th Member State of the United Nations. Additionally, Nigeria’s Prime Minister, Alhaji Abubakar Tafawa Balewa was personally received by the US President. John F. Kennedy during his 8-day State Visit to the United States in July 1961. He was first received in Washington at the Blair House during the first four days. He was later honoured with an Honorary Doctorate of Law by the New York University. All these explain the recognition of Nigeria as a nation-state but not really in its sociological sense.

What is noteworthy in this regard, however, is that Nigerian leaders were very conscious that Nigeria was not truly a nation, This is why they asked in their National Anthem God almighty, the God of all creation, to help them ‘to build a nation where no man is oppressed.’ There are two implications in this prayer. First is the recognition that Nigeria was not yet a nation, hence the request for divine assistance to build a nation. Second is the fact that Nigerian leaders did not want just any nation but a nation that would be free from oppression and injustice.

The problematic for most Nigerians is that they do not always know what their greatest problem is all about, which, a priori, is about the need to build a Nigerian Nation. Dishonesty of purpose, political chicanery, reckless and deliberate embezzlement of public funds, engagement in scientific rigging of election, preaching the sermons of democracy under which poor governance, characterized by lack of accountability and transparency, cannot but

The FCTA must therefore know its onions and limitation of its statutory powers in dealing with foreign governments. Terrorists often attack and violate diplomatic agents because diplomats are internationally protected. The FCTA is not a terrorist administration and should therefore not behave like one. The FCTA cannot generate revenues or promote governmental efficiency and effectiveness by acts of attitudinal remissness, administrative inefficiency, political chicanery, and incompleteness, because they only taint the image of Government. In other words, diplomatic missions claim non-notification about ground rent default and affirm having paid their ground rents up till December 2024. The German Embassy told The Punch newspapers on 9 June, 2025 that ‘no claim or demand has been formally brought to (its) attention by the FCT’ and that ‘all official financial obligations relating to the Embassy’s premises have been fully settled as of the end of 2024. There are no known outstanding payments.’ In the same vein, the Embassy of the Russian Federation says it ‘pays all bills for the rent of the territory on which the Embassy complex is located in good faith and on time. The Embassy also has all necessary documents confirming payment.’ Why is the FCTA unaware? Besides, the principles of sovereign equality and ex-territoriality of embassies do not allow for payment of any ground rent. However, if embassies still pay, it means the rule of reciprocity applies and the FCT Minister may not be blamed. But he is more than blamable if embassies do not owe and they are unnecessarily tainted on the altar of FCTA’s inefficiency

militate against true nation-building. As noted in the 1987 Political Bureau’s Report by Professor J.S, Cookey, corruption and societal indiscipline began in Nigeria in 1967. This was the third stage in the continuum of the killing of Nigeria. The first two levels were the January 15, 1966 coup d’état and the July 29, 1966 coup d’état. The civil war of national unity that erupted in 1967 was to reverse Nigeria from disintegration. Fortunately, General Yakubu Gowon won the battles but, unfortunately, never won the war. The war is being fought in various ramifications in Nigeria of today. This is why Nigeria is still variously challenged by boko haramism and armed banditry, Fulani herdsmen-farmers’ imbroglio, agitations for self-determination, and why notable politicians collude with Nigeria’s enemies, within and without, to disintegrate Nigeria. When one British Prime Minister told the United Nations General Assembly more than a decade ago that there was a training camp in the FCT, we read the report and wrote in this column on the dangers. There is nothing to suggest that action was taken on the matter. When we also complained about why Nigeria had to be reported to the United Nations rather than reporting the matter through a note verbale to Nigeria, Government never bothered. It was this don’t care attitude that might have prompted the direct reporting to the United Nations. This attitude is another expression of killing Nigeria softly.

Again, where is the place of honour in the society? Traditional chieftaincy used to be conferred on people with noble integritas, on people who unflinchingly contribute to community development. The title of a ‘Doctor’ used to be for medical practitioners or for holders of a doctorate degree. Today, school certificate holders go for training programmes for one year or for 18 months and graduate, As vocational graduates, they are called ‘Dr.’ this or ‘Dr.’ that. Those who train as professional tailors for two or three years, without primary or secondary education, wear university-type of academic gowns on the day of their freedom. They too are graduates.

And true enough again, in Nigeria, mechanics, carpenters, etc. now answer ‘automobile’ and ‘building’ engineers. Even the original engineers have adopted the word ‘Engineer’ as a title. Non-career ambassadors call themselves Ambassadors contrarily to diplomatic practice. They cannot normally use the title of an ambassador when not in office. They can only use it as a title when in office. Only a career ambassador has the right to use the title after retirement. Again, there is nothing like Barrister this or Barrister that. Lawyers are not supposed to use ‘barrister’ as a title. Doing so is Nigerianomania.

There is nothing wrong if Nigerians have their own mania to show peculiarity and originality. However, great caution must be taken before changing internationally-accepted standards. Not reckoning with civilized international standards is killing Nigeria softly while the whole world will sit down quietly waiting for Nigeria’s downfall. What the Government and leaders of Nigeria easily forget is that none of the big powers wants any strong Nigeria that will be capable to challenge them. Nigeria used to be respected when there was oil boom. Big powers give development loans to prevent original development thinking and creativity of the recipients. This is killing Nigeria softly.

The soft approach to killing Nigeria is gradually becoming more complex and Government does not appear to be weighing the diplomatic implications for national unity and integration. The threats by the FCT Minister to close some embassies in Abuja for not paying ground rents have the potential to seriously kill Nigeria without the use of force. They also have the great potential to deny PBAT of contesting the 2027 presidential election not because of non-eligibility, but primarily because of the likelihood of international hostility that may not be helpful to Nigeria’s image under PBAT.

Diplomatic Inviolability and Wike’s Threats

On Monday, June 2, 2025, the Federal Capital Territory Administration placed a ‘Demand Notice on Payment of Ground Rent in the Federal Capital Territory in ThisDay newspaper (vide pp. 29-84). As advertised, ‘all allottees/property owners, as well as beneficiaries of landed properties from the scheme of Sale of Federal Government Houses in the FCT who have not paid or settled their ground rents up to the Year 2024, are hereby given FOURTEEN (14) DAYS from the date of this publication to pay their Ground Rents, to avoid revocation or withdrawal of title.’

Additionally, the advert reminded ‘the general public, particularly allottees/title holders of landed properties in the Federal Capital Territory, of their obligations to the FCTA as stipulated in the covenanted terms and conditions of the Rights of Occupancy/Certificates of Occupancy to wit: “pay in advance without demand to the Federal Capital Territory Administration the Annual Ground Rent from the first date of January of each year.

In this regard, a ground rent defaulter does not only refer to those who have not paid up till end of 2024 but also to those who have not complied with the requirement of payment as “from the first date of January of each year.’ What does ‘as from the first date of January’ mean? ‘As from’ is quite different from ‘on’ January 1.’ Payments made in February or March of each year cannot be a negation of ‘as from’ but it is a negation for ‘on January 1’ which is more specific.

IN THE ARENA

Alia Must Expose Backers of Benue Killers

Those who were last week expecting Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, to name some unidentified politicians and members of the National Assembly of sponsoring incessant killings in the state based on the interim report of the judicial panel he commissioned, are still waiting, Davidson Iriekpen writes

Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, recently stirred the hornet’s nest when he raised the alarm that some unnamed politicians and members of the National Assembly were sponsoring the violent attacks in the state.

Although the governor did not name the politicians, he said the attacks were well planned and executed by terrorists and that an interim report of a judicial panel he set up indicted many big names.

Alia further allegedly queried the perceived silence of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume and his associates on the wave of killings and violence, particularly in the Sankera region.

He, however, vowed to take decisive action on the matter as soon as he receives the panel’s full report.

The governor, during a television interview, added that the state was under siege from terrorists and bandits, noting that the recent attacks that claimed several lives were beyond a herders-farmers clash.

In his view, the enemies of his state now involve specialised killers - terrorists who engage in a form of guerrilla warfare.

“We are under siege,” Governor Alia said on the programme when asked if he thought the state was under terror attack.

“The way these attacks come and the intel we receive, it is a directed calibrated plan and then executed. On a daily basis, we are receiving that intel. Of late, each of those intel we receive, 60 to 65 per cent of it is quite accurate.

“And then when you realise what is going on, it is beyond just conflict, it is beyond just an ethnic fight between herders and farmers in our state, it is directed, it is planned and then it is executed, it is some terrorism.

“For some reason, none of them is ever caught; they come in in the thick of the night, hit, run, and nobody sees a trace. So, it is some terrorism that is eating us up. We set up a judicial panel to sort out for us why we kept having attacks from within and from without and we have received an interim report. Between Tuesday and Wednesday next week, I am going to get a full report from the panel.

“It is very unsettling because some politicians who are very functional, and are in the National Assembly, and are in Abuja, are the

architects and arrowheads of not just instigating but harbouring and keeping these people; keeping them in the bushes and taking care of all their bills and buying all the gadgets for them.

This is extremely unacceptable. If they do not like the lives of the people and are fighting for their own political position, I think I am serving the interest of the common masses and it is my right to protect them,” Alia explained.

It is no longer news that in the last 10 years, there have been massive killings in the state while the people are abandoned to their fate. Almost on a daily, bandits and herdsmen raid villages, killing men, women, and children, while also raping and kidnapping countless others. This year alone, over 300 people are believed to have been killed in the state.

This was the case until Governor Alia assumed power on May 29, 2023. Many who thought his tenure would bring peace to the state have been disappointed as the situation has worsened.

p

Since his inauguration in 2023, there has been a supremacy battle between him and the SGF, Senator Akume, National Assembly lawmakers from the state and some members of the state House of Assembly.

These political leaders appear to be more concerned with fighting a supremacy battle than joining hands to tackle their common enemies who are determined to wipe out the indigenous population.

The political crisis became so embarrassing that the Tiv Traditional Council led by the Tor Tiv, Prof. James Ayatse, once brokered peace between some of the warring factions, who have since refused to sheathe their swords.

It is believed that a secured Benue alone could feed the entire nation, hence it is commonly referred to as the food basket of Nigeria. It is famous for yams, rice, maize, oranges, mangoes, and other agricultural produce. Yet, for the past 10 years, the state has known peace.

With the unending insecurity in Benue, the state is fast losing its status as the food basket of Nigeria, as people can no longer go to the farms for fear of being killed, maimed, raped or kidnapped.

OLITICAL

NOT e S

Dickson as Last Man Standing

Former Governor of Bayelsa State and senator representing Bayelsa West, Seriake Dickson, seems to be the only man standing against the declaration of state of emergency on Rivers State, as other voices of dissent have faded away.

After a joint session of the National Assembly to commemorate Democracy Day where President Bola Tinubu spoke, Dickson who thought the president would use the occasion to lift the emergency rule, criticised his silence over what he described as a “constitutional aberration” of the action.

Relying on Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution, President Tinubu had on March 18, proclaimed a state of emergency following the protracted political crisis in the state. He consequently suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara; his deputy, Ngozi Odu;

and all the members of the House of Assembly for six months.

The president later appointed a former military man, Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (rtd), as administrator to take charge of the affairs of the state for the first six months.

Many Nigerians, including Dickson, and civil society organisations had condemned the action.

Following the condemnations and meetings with Fubara, many had thought that President Tinubu would the occasion of Democracy Day to lift the emergency rule in the state.

This is why the former governor accused Tinubu’s administration of enabling a creeping “military-style suppression of democracy” for failing to address the emergency rule foisted on the people of Rivers

The Executive Secretary of the state Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Dr. Emmanuel Shior, while briefing journalists on the update on humanitarian crises in the state, said following the recent simultaneous attacks in four local government areas of Gwer West, Agatu, Kwande, Logo and Makurdi, the state currently has over two million IDPs. He added that 18 of the 23 local government areas of the state were under siege.

Shior also accused the federal government of neglecting the humanitarian crisis in the state where internally displaced persons (IDPs) have remained in camps for over five years. He emphasised that leaving the responsibility of addressing their plight to the state government alone had placed a tremendous burden on the state.

Throughout the eight years of the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari, there was no concerted effort to address the killings in the state despite pressure from local and international observers.

Under President Bola Tinubu the situation is not any better as the federal government has not taken any known deliberate step to handle the situation differently and save the people from incessant attacks even though the governor is also a member of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

The governor and all who are saddled with the responsibility of securing the indigenes must think outside the box and find a solution to end the persistent carnage in the state. Unfortunately, the indigenes of that state had claimed that not a single attacker has been arrested, fuelling the speculations of conspiracy.

The refusal of the leaders to join forces to fight their common enemies just shows that they do not care about the plight of the masses but their interests

The time has come for them to come together and take drastic and decisive action to address the insecurity plaguing the state. Those perpetrating the killings cannot be untouchable and invincible.

All Nigerians want to see is that there is absolute peace in the state and people can go about their businesses and farms without fear. The news of incessant killings constantly emanating from the state is depressing.

Nobody should play politics with insecurity and the lives of the people.

State in his beautifully written speech.

He said democracy is supposed to inspire hope, but what the people saw in the Senate was a direct assault on that hope.

At the heart of Dickson’s outrage was a communication from the president concerning political developments in Rivers State, read aloud during the plenary session by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

Dickson alleged that his attempt to raise a constitutional point of order immediately after the announcement was “deliberately shut down”. He made it clear that his agitation is not about Governor Fubara or political parties but the people of Rivers State and the survival of democracy in Nigeria.

Governor Alia

Dickson

BRIEFING NOTES

DSS’ Democratic Approach to Shadow Government

Is the decision of the Department of State Services to challenge the promoter of shadow government, Prof. Pat Utomi in court rather than resorting to arbitrary arrests and other acts of repression that had characterised the operation of the agency an indication that the secret police have imbibed the tenets of democracy and the rule of law, ejiofor Alike asks

The recent court action initiated by the Department of State Services (DSS) against the promoter of shadow government, Prof. Pat Utomi is a clear departure from the tradition of the agency, which had always used acts of repression to suppress, intimidate and persecute voices of dissent and other opposition elements.

Under its previous leadership, DSS gained notoriety for engaging in acts of impunity, illegal arrests and other forms of human rights abuses.

In the early life of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, the operatives of the agency had beat up a squadron commander of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) on the premises of the Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos.

The DSS officers beat up the NCoS senior officer when he tried to resist their attempt to take the former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Godwin Emefiele, from him.

The operatives brazenly manhandled the senior correctional officer in whose custody Justice Nicholas Oweibo had ruled that the former CBN governor should be, pending the perfection of his N20 million bail for alleged illegal possession of firearms.

The incident was not the first time the agency exhibited its disrespect for the judiciary and human rights.

President Tinubu had in his first meeting with the Service Chiefs and heads of security and intelligence agencies, warned them against working at cross purposes.

However, Tinubu’s warning did not deter the previous leadership of the DSS from condoning and encouraging acts of impunity and inter-agency rivalry.

The operatives of the agency had earlier on May 30, 2023 stormed the Ikoyi, Lagos office of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and prevented officials of the commission from gaining access in what many described as a show of its superior fire power.

DSS operatives had also stormed the Asokoro, Abuja residence of a former National Security Adviser (NSA), Col. Sambo Dasuki (rtd) in November 2015 and laid a siege for 25 days until he was rearrested, after Justice Adeniyi Ademola of the Federal High Court had on November 3, 2015 granted his request for his travel document to be released in order for him to travel abroad to take care of his deteriorating health.

Masked operatives of the agency had also barricaded the gates to the National Assembly

complex and shut out lawmakers in August 2018.

This act of disrespect for the legislative arm of government prompted the then Acting President Yemi Osinbajo to sack the then-Director General of the DSS, Lawal Daura.

DSS operatives had also stormed Justice Ijeoma Ojukwu’s Federal High Court in Abuja to re-arrest the former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore in December 2019, less than 24 hours after the judge had released him from illegal custody.

The operatives of the secret police had also invaded the homes of judges and justices of the Supreme Court in 2016 and 2017, in an alleged bid to intimidate and cow the judiciary.

Due to the notoriety of the DSS for human rights abuses and impunity, it was surprising to many Nigerians when the current leadership of the agency chose the responsible option of dragging Utomi to court rather than resorting to his arrest and illegal detention.

The revered economist and political activist incurred the ire of the secret police when he announced the formation of a shadow government designed to serve as a credible opposition to President Tinubu’s administration.

The initiative, which he described as a “national emergency response”, was launched virtually in May under the banner of the ‘Big Tent Coalition Shadow Government’ to scrutinise government actions, identify policy failures, and propose alternative solutions in key areas, including the economy, education, healthcare, infrastructure, law and order, and constitutional reform.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, was quoted as describing the shadow government as an “aberration” especially “at a time when our nation is set to celebrate 26 unbroken years of presidential democracy.”

But rather than resorting to its obnoxious culture of arbitrary arrests, illegal detentions and slamming trumped-up charges against the promoters of the shadow government, DSS dragged Utomi to court.

In the suit marked: FHC/ABJ/CS/937/2025, filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja, the DSS alleged that Utomi’s actions posed a threat

Always a Courageous Ndume

The senator representing Borno south, Ali Ndume, does not always shy away from controversy. He is fearless and courageous and as such does not always shy away from saying his mind.

Though he has been cautioned many times by his political party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), and even sanctioned, he has refused to be deterred from speaking truth to power.

Last week, he faulted President Bola Tinubu’s endorsement by APC governors, citing a similar incident ahead of the 2015 elections when 22 Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) declared their support for then-President Goodluck Jonathan. Ndume, a known critic of Tinubu, while speaking during a television programme, said he was not among the members of the APC

who endorsed President Tinubu for a second term in office.

He recalled that Jonathan lost his re-election bid to Muhammadu Buhari of the APC despite the endorsement by 22 PDP governors.

The various stakeholders of the APC had during the party’s national summit recently held at the President Villa in Abuja, endorsed and adopted Tinubu as the party’s sole presidential candidate for the 2027 poll.

All the 22 governors who are members of the APC, the ruling party’s members at the National Assembly, the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) led by the National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, endorsed the president for re-election during the event.

Many had faulted the ruling party for prioritising what they termed early campaign

to national security and constitutional order. Utomi, the 2007 presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress was named as the sole defendant in the suit.

The suit, which was filed through a team of lawyers led by Akinlolu Kehinde (SAN), claimed that the shadow government was operating an alternative government, contrary to the provision of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended).

DSS also later approached the Federal High Court in Abuja, praying it to restrain Utomi from making public comments or engaging in any form of rally, relating to his announced plan to establish a shadow government in the country.

In a fresh application filed through its team of lawyers led by Mr. Kehinde (SAN), DSS told the court that it got an intelligence that Utomi had concluded plans to return to Nigeria on June 6 to engage in protests, road shows and media interviews.

Consequently, DSS prayed the court for: “An order of interlocutory injunction, restraining the defendant/respondent (Utomi), his agents, privies, associates, servants, workers or any person acting through him, from staging road shows, rallies, public lectures or any form of public gathering, newspaper publications, television programmes, jingles or any other public enlightenment programme (s) aimed at sensitizing, instigating, propagating or in any way promoting the purported ‘shadow government/shadow cabinet’ or its objectives or goals, with the view to establishing the said ‘shadow government’, pending the hearing and determination of the substantive suit.”

Many Nigerians believe that if Utomi had embarked on his democratic journey under the previous despotic leadership of the DSS, the secret police would have clamped down on him and other promoters, and also hung trumped-up charges on their necks.

The current leadership of the DSS led by Mr. Oluwatosin Ajayi deserves commendation for the agency’s responsible approach to the issue of shadow government.

DSS should apply this commendable rule of engagement to the less-privileged in the society to demonstrate that all citizens are truly equal before the law.

What is good for the highly-placed Nigerians is also good for the less-privileged Nigerians, including the likes of the factional President of the National Association of the Nigerian Students (NANS), Atiku Abubakar Isah, who, according to a media report, was allegedly detained by the agency and initially denied access to his family and lawyers.

for Tinubu’s re-election instead of tackling the several challenges confronting the country.

Speaking on Tinubu’s endorsement, Ndume, who does not know how to pretend, said things are very bad in the country, adding that Nigerians have not seen any hope as promised in the Renewed Hope of the president

He added he did not support the decision of the APC governors, despite being at the Presidential Villa when the president was endorsed.

Ndume also claimed that a cabal has hijacked Tinubu’s government and that “kleptocrats and kakistocrats” dominate the administration.

Ndume’s anti-Tinubu posturing has earned him “a lone-wolf opposition within the APC” appellation by the presidential spokesman, Bayo Onanuga.

Ajayi

Ndume

GLOBAL RECOGNITION…

Ewanehi, at the House of Lords, Westminster, London... recently

June 12: Activists Want Tinubu to Honour Walter Carrington, Others

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

Some activists under the aegis of Quintessential Professionals yesterday urged President Bola Tinubu to include a former United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Walter Carrington, in the list of pro-democracy crusaders honoured for their roles in the June 12, struggle.

Carrington, who served as the US Ambassador to Nigeria from 1993 to 1997, was actively involved in the pro-democracy activism that eventually birthed

democracy in Nigeria in 1999.

The group in a statement by its coordinator, Stanley Dunia, and made available to journalists in Abuja, recalled how Carrington actively collaborated with Nigerian pro-democracy activists for the revalidation of the June 12 presidential election, despite being on a diplomatic mission.

While in Nigeria, the US diplomat, the statement explained, got married to a Nigerian woman, Arese, a medical doctor from Edo State.

The activists argued that Car-

Gbesoye Debo-Olujimi’s Dual-purpose Book Now For public Presentation on June 21

“Doing and Being” written by an executive Director of Emadeb Energy Services Limited, Mrs Gbesoye Debo-Olujimi, which was initially slated for public presentation on June 14, 2025, in Lagos, will now be unveiled in Abuja on Saturday, June 21, 2025.

The event, powered by Made for Impact in collaboration with Cerca Africa, will be hosted at Aso View Hall, Harrow Park, Wuse 2, Abuja, at 3.00 pm.

The ten-chapter book explores the leitmotif of transiting from simply “doing” life to truly “being” present in it.

The book serves the dual-

purpose of a memoir and a call to action: an invitation to stop existing and start living with intention.

According to the author’s synoptical offering: “‘Doing and being’ is a deeply personal and spiritually-rich book that offers clear insight to anyone seeking clarity about their purpose.

“Through honest reflections, practical tools, and heartfelt encouragement, Gbesoye DeboOlujimi shares the life lessons that have shaped her journey. Her words offer guidance, hope, and a gentle but firm push to live each day with intention, choosing not just to do, but to be.”

Nigeria-China to Deepen Collaboration

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, at the weekend, met with the Chinese Governor of Hunan Province, Mao Weiming, in Changsha for high-level discussions aimed at deepening collaboration and establishing a friendship Province-State relationship between Nigeria and Hunan Province at both federal and sub-national levels.

A statement from the ministry said Tuggar conveyed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s deep

commitment to agriculture and food security as pillars of Nigeria’s national stability. The discussions identified key areas for cooperation, including seed technology improvement, agricultural processing, and enhanced provision of agricultural machinery.

“Hunan has a profound historical heritage and a vibrant economy. The province is an important strategic region for Nigeria in developing its friendly relationship with China”, Amb Tuggar stated during the meeting.

rington, who died in August 2020, deserved a posthumous award.

Similarly, the group made separate cases for other Nigerians who were part of the struggle but whose names were omitted on the list unveiled by President Tinubu on Thursday.

Prominent among those omitted

were some of Tinubu’s allies in the Afenifere and the NADECO movement who were also in the trenches during the struggle. They were Chief Ayo Opadokun, Pa Olanihun Ajayi, Chief Cornelius Adebayo, Chief Olabiyi Durojaiye, Senator Adedayo Adeyeye and Senator Jonathan Zwingina.

Others similarly omitted are Kofo Akerele-Bucknor, Dr Kayode Fayemi, Senator Babafemi Ojudu, Reverend Adebiyi, Prof. Chidi Odinkalu, Chief Olisa Agbakoba, Innocent Chukwuma, Mike Ozekhome, Yinka Odumakin, Joe Okei-Odumakin among many others.

The statement read: “The Presidency should review this list and many others deserving of honour, with a view to addressing the oversight and picking out the dead among them for posthumous honour.”

Unity Schools: Lagos Records Highest Number as 64,000 Candidates Sit for Exams in Nigeria, Benin, Togo

Kuni Tyessi in Abuja

The National Examinations Council (NECO) yesterday disclosed that Lagos State recorded the highest number of candidates that sat for the 2025 National Common Entrance Examination (NCEE) for admission into Federal Government Colleges.

It also disclosed that a total of 64,000 candidates from Nigeria,

Benin Republic, and Togo participated in the examination comprising 30,000 males and 34,000 females.

Speaking after monitoring the exercise at Model Secondary School, Maitama, and Government Secondary School, Tudun Wada, the Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad, expressed satisfaction with the smooth conduct of the examination and emphasised

that the turnout was a reflection of continued public trust in the unity school system.

“I’m very happy with the way the exams have been conducted. They started on time; students were orderly, and invigilators were present and active. We had 64,000 candidates - 30,000 males and 34,000 females which shows a strong interest in our unity colleges.

“Nigerians are still eager to have their children in Federal Government Colleges. This turnout shows that parents still value the role of unity schools in national cohesion,” she added.

Also speaking, NECO Registrar, Prof. Ibrahim Wushishi, said Lagos State registered over 15,000 candidates while the Republic of Togo had the lowest with 17 candidates.

Agric Ministry Denies Planning Prayer Session for Food Security, Cites Sudden Deaths of Management Staff

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has clarified that the proposed prayer sessions to be held within the ministry were organised to address staff concerns over a series of sudden deaths of management staff, not as a strategy to tackle food security.

In a press statement issued yesterday by the Assistant Information Officer for the Director of Information, Ezeaja Ikemefuna, the ministry said the ongoing prayer sessions were merely an internal initiative by the Human Resource Department to address staff well-being and were not a policy directive.

“The ministry’s attention is

drawn to the internal circular of the Human Resource Management Department being circulated by online media; in this regard, the ministry wishes to inform that the prayer session is an initiative of the Human Resource Department to address the well-being of the staff just as the already existing monthly aerobic exercise and establish-

ment of the gymnasium in the ministry are for physical fitness as the regular medical check-up of staff is for their health,” the statement explained. According to the ministry, the prayer sessions were introduced in response to anxiety among staff following the “recent untimely and successive death of management staff of the ministry.”

Delta Infrastructure Devt Takes Centre Stage as Oborevwori Meets CCECC Mgt in Beijing

Governor of Delta State, Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has restated his commitment to positioning the state on the path of global competitiveness through enhanced infrastructure and economic advancement.

Governor Oborevwori was speaking at a meeting with top management of China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation, CCECC, at the global headquarters of the

construction giant in Beijing, the Chinese capital.

At the meeting, Governor Oborevwori outlined his administration’s comprehensive development strategy, focusing on infrastructure advancement, strengthening the economy of the state, and empowering the people of Delta to compete internationally.

He declared that his vision is rooted in sustainable

growth, fostering opportunities for economic diversification, and elevating the standard of living for all Deltans.

The governor, who was accompanied to the meeting by Delta state commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Charles Aniagwu, and his Technical Assistant, Engineer Bob Nakpodia, told the CCECC management that at the heart of his MORE

agenda is a commitment to revamping the state’s infrastructure, recognizing its critical role in economic development and quality of life.

He emphasized his very remarkable initiatives to expand and modernize road networks, bridges, and public transport systems and improve connectivity between upland and hitherto inaccessible riverine communities.

L-R: Chief Executive Officer of Britrise UK, Raisa Ambros; Group Chief Executive Officer, Solewant Group, Mr. Solomon Ewanehi; Founder of Nepal Centre, UK, Mr. Nirmal Kumar; and Member of UK House of Lords and Chancellor of Roehampton University, London, Baroness Verma, during the presentation of Achievers Award 2025, to

MARYAM ABACHA GASLIGHTS NIGERIANS

of the “Abacha criminal organisation” in an article published in 2008. There was a pattern to the looting: ONSA would send dubious funding requests for “security operations” to Abacha who would then authorise the CBN to release the monies. The funds were directly remitted in cash ($1.131 billion and £413 million) and in travellers’ cheques ($50 million and £3.5 million) by the CBN to ONSA, who then organised for direct delivery to Abacha at home.

According to Monfrini, the funds would thereafter be laundered through Nigerian banks or by Nigerian or foreign businessmen to offshore accounts belonging to Mohammed, his eldest surviving son, Abba (Mohammed’s brother), Abdulkadir Abacha (Abacha’s brother) and Abubakar Bagudu (an investment banker). Monfrini said there were 36 instances that funds totalling $386 million were wired by the CBN “to foreign bank accounts abroad held by offshore companies belonging either to members of the Abacha criminal organisation or to Nigerian or foreign businessmen, who then remitted the same sums to members of the organisation”. I don’t know how this can be justified.

Recovery started during investigation by the SIP. Several assets, including the Cowry House on Akin Adesola Road, Victoria Island, Lagos, and physical cash were seized by the federal government. Numerous looted assets were also identified, forcing the Abubakar administration to promulgate the Forfeiture of Assets, Etc (Certain Persons) Decree No. 53 of May 26, 1999 to give legal backing to the recovery and restitution process. This law, now an Act of Parliament, ordered the confiscation of real estate, movable assets, and cash acquired and held illegally by Abacha’s associates, including the late Alhaji Abdulazeez Arisekola Alao, the Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland and well-known Abacha man.

Within a short time, over $800 million was returned to the government. Growing in confidence and capitalising on European human rights laws, the Abachas started

UNCLE SAM IS 90

I was quite young when I was appointed Saturday Editor of THISDAY in 2002 by Mr Nduka Obaigbena. A senior journalist asked me: “Simon, you have risen so early in your career. I wonder how much longer you will remain in journalism.” I smiled and offered him a simple answer: “Uncle Sam.” He got my drift instantly. Prince Sam Amuka-Pemu, whom we call “Uncle Sam”, is the publisher of Vanguard. He has been a journalist all his life, edited big publications, and written unputdownable columns. He has produced leaders in the media and other fields. He has never joined a political party or taken a political appointment, yet he is a fulfilled man. Uncle Sam remains an inspiration even at 90. Hooray!

placing legal hurdles on the way of the Nigerian government to stop further recovery. The government decided to start criminal proceedings against them and their associates. The criminal proceedings and mutual assistance proceedings in Europe in 2000 forced the Abachas and their associates to disclose that they had $600 million stashed in Switzerland, $630 million in Luxembourg and $200 million in Liechtenstein. They had violated the decree by failing to disclose those assets and they were caught pants down.

Monfrini succeeded in freezing almost all the identified assets of the “Abacha criminal organisation” worldwide. It was discovered that over 20 companies paid bribes at the request of Abacha, in addition to insanely inflated contracts awarded to companies controlled by his family. Abacha was the designated beneficial owner of just three of the over 100 accounts used by the “organisation”. The designated beneficial owners of the rest were his sons and various cohorts, both civilian and military. Obasanjo had to enter into a global settlement agreement (GSA) with the Abachas in 2004 to encourage them to cough up all the looted funds in exchange for immunity from prosecution.

After Obasanjo left office, the Abachas began to play games to stall on the recovery and restitution of the remaining loot. Liechtenstein, in particular, was reluctant to return the €185 million traced to its jurisdiction because of the suits filed by the Abachas, even though the funds had been frozen by court orders since 2000. It was established by investigators that €179 million was a bribe paid by Ferrostaal AG of Germany, one of the world’s largest steel traders, when Abacha awarded them the contract for the construction of the Aluminium Smelter Company of Nigeria (ALSCON), Ikot Abasi, Akwa Ibom state. The Germans paid the bribe to Liechtenstein accounts owned by the Abachas.

If Mrs Abacha is truly looking for the “witnesses” to the stashing by her husband, she does not need to look far away from home. More so, the facts are documented in court proceedings in Nigeria and abroad

as well as in an agreement signed with the government by her children. The Abachas were even allowed to keep some assets under the “complete waiver” granted by Obasanjo just to get them to make full disclosure of what disappeared from the CBN safes into their pockets. Since 1999, her family has coughed up over $2 billion of the loot traced to them, not forgetting the about $500 million returned under President Muhammadu Buhari — who once said Abacha was not a thief.

Mrs Abacha repeated the fable that her husband left robust reserves that vanished “within months” after his death. I believe this myth has come to stay, but the real fact is that when Abacha died in June 1998, our foreign reserves were about $6 billion and we had outstanding FX obligations in excess of $3 billion. There were several commitments, including hosting the 1999 FIFA World Youth Championship, funding NNPC JV cash calls and repaying Paris Club debts, that needed to be met. Crude oil was around $10 a barrel and OPEC had reduced production quotas. The rosy picture painted of “robust reserves” is urban legend not backed by facts. But it is a tale to be told forever.

Mrs Abacha does not like the fact that people are still criticising her husband 27 years after death disrobed him as our maximum ruler and potential life president. She, apparently, has a small point. She believes the husband has a right to be forgotten. She, indeed, has a small point. It is not as if looting started and ended with her husband. It is not as if Nigeria has been governed by leaders with clean hands and pure hearts since Abacha died. After all, many of those who colluded with him and enabled his repressive reign have since been rehabilitated into the society and celebrated as elder statesmen. So why should Abacha still be demonised after 27 years? She, in fact, has a small point.

The problem, I think, is that her husband was in a class of his own. He did more damage to our national psyche than many

And Four Other Things…

ONE-PARTY STUFF

Addressing the national assembly on Democracy Day, President Tinubu defended the mass defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC), insisting that he believes in the multi-party system. I have my view on these defections which I will write on later. However, not being one to resist an opportunity to throw a few stones at the opposition, Tinubu added: “Political parties fearful of members leaving may be better served by examining their internal processes and affairs rather than fearfully conjuring up demons that do not exist.

For me, I would say try your best to put your house in order. I will not help you do so.” And now this: “It is, indeed, a pleasure to witness you in such disarray.” Ouch!

PRESIDENT TINUBU AND JUNE 12

the military uniform is called camouflage, and camouflage, according to him, is a synonym for deception.

It is thus unsurprising that much of his contributions, particularly after June 12, remained indelible years after the death of Abiola, owner of the stolen mandate. The profundity of June 12 is evident in the fact that its ghost has refused to go away years after the restoration of democracy in 1999. President Olusegun Obasanjo, who inherited power on a silver platter and his Peoples Democratic Party, carried on as though oblivious of the historical import of June 12 and the ominous pall that its years of neglect had cast on the nation’s democratic system. Although the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua inaugurated the Justice Muhammed Uwais Electoral panel to reform the nation’s electoral process after admitting his election in 2007 was flawed, he battled ill-health for the better part of his presidency to think of June 12. President Goodluck Jonathan also remained seemingly unfazed about that annulled poll. For 16 years after the democratic renewal, the PDP government carried on with the utter neglect of June 12 and its

symbolic place in our democracy.

However, President Buhari took bold steps to resolve the June 12 conundrum and put Abiola in his rightful place even in death. Recognising him as the winner of June 12 and as President, Buhari bestowed on MKO posthumously, the highest national honour of GCFR reserved for presidents. He also declared June 12 a national public holiday. Buhari gave Abiola’s running mate in the election, Ambassador Babagana Kingibe, the second-highest honour of GCON. Buhari’s gesture won him admiration and commendations.

Many didn’t know that Asiwaju Tinubu had made the recommendation to President Buhari.

Addressing the National Assembly last Thursday, President Tinubu again commended Buhari for this critical decision: “Let me pay tribute to former President Muhammadu Buhari for reaching back into history to rectify a national misdeed by making June 12 Democracy Day and by officially acknowledging Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola and his running mate, Babagana Kingibe, as the victors and thus duly elected President and Vice

ADAMS AND PEACE

There was a major drama on Wednesday at the Murtala Muhammed Airport, Lagos, when Senator Adams Oshiomhole and Air Peace locked horns. What we know is that Oshiomhole, former labour leader, embarked on “aluta” when he was told he arrived late for his flight and would not be boarded. What we are unsure of is his allegation that the staff were extorting other passengers to board them despite the lateness. What we know, based on video evidence, is that the former Edo governor blocked the entrance gate and delayed the flight. It is not impossible that passengers were asked for a bribe (this is Nigeria) but the ex-APC chairman did not conduct himself well. Unbecoming.

President respectively of Nigeria after the June 12, 1993, elections.”

President Tinubu completed the restitution for Abiola and other heroes of democracy that Thursday. He conferred posthumous national honours on Kudirat Abiola, MKO’s wife, and other heroes. Agents of the military junta killed Kudirat on the streets of Lagos in the wake of the June 12 struggle.

It is relevant to state that certain things are instructive about President Tinubu and June 12. Tinubu became President in 2023, 30 years after June 12. Is this simply a coincidence or divinely ordained?

The late MKO Abiola christened his campaign manifesto “Hope 1993: Farewell to Poverty.” President Tinubu called his own Renewed Hope Agenda for a Better Nigeria.

Now, has the ghost of June 12 been finally laid to rest? Is MKO’s vision for Nigeria alive in Tinubu’s presidency? Vice President Kashim Mustapha Shettima thinks so.

Speaking during the public lecture commemorating the 26th year of unbroken Democracy, VP Shettima said decades after the June 12 debacle, providence

are ready to give him credit for. He set sickening precedents for subsequent governments. The sleazy foundation did not die with him: it, instead, became a culture. Under Abacha, we had dual exchange rates: N22 officially and N80 on the streets. The black market rate was almost four times higher than the official! Arbitrage became a new economy. The free money was used to fill the mouths of the sycophants campaigning for Abacha to transmute from military to civilian president. It was the progenitor of the insane arbitrage between 2015 and 2023. Under Abacha, our refineries went comatose and “turnaround maintenance” contracts became an oil block on its own while fuel importation was embraced as the business of choice for his family members and associates. Subsequent governments came and discovered the dual honeypot of “turnaround maintenance” contracts and fuel importation. They refused to let go. Abacha showed the way by sowing the seed. Do I need to remind Mrs Abacha of the importation of “foul fuel” that damaged car engines across the country? Or do I really need to remind her of the assassinations and bombings — and the human rights abuses that turned Nigeria into a gigantic gulag under Abacha? Nonetheless, I do not believe any human being is completely bad. In my books, Abacha had the best record in the management of the gains of subsidy removal. He set up the Petroleum (Special) Trust Fund that did tangible projects across Nigeria. Also, I will forever give him a thumbs-up for accelerating the take-off of the Nigeria LNG. But he did far more evil than good. Today, when people try to re-write history by saying that Abacha ran the economy better, I chuckle. Memory of pain does not last. That is why some women keep visiting the labour room. But the perfidy and pains of the murderous Abacha years can never be wished away by his widow. Or his supporters. Never. Ever.

NO COMMENT

According to those tracking the development, seven places have been named after President Bola Tinubu since he was inaugurated in May 2023. At this rate, there will be at least 14 places named after him by the time he finishes his first term. For sure, he did not invent it. In fact, it has become a culture to be naming things after sitting governors and presidents. Many commentators think immortalisation, as we call it, should only be after they have left office. But that is not even what is amusing me today. A commenter wrote on X: “INEC will be announcing the 2027 Presidential election result from (the renamed) Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre.” Hahahaha.

returned the baton of Abiola’s struggle for a better Nigeria to “one of his most trusted lieutenants—President Tinubu.”

He affirmed that, based on the final account of Abiola’s life, the military could not take away or extinguish hope. “It is this faith in the promise of Abiola’s vision that has renewed the hope of this nation,” he said.

The work is not entirely done. Although the recent resolution of the National Assembly adopting June 12 of every year for the Presidential Address is a step in the right direction, as it will help to institutionalise June 12 and immortalise Abiola, I think MKO deserves full recompense for his contributions and for paying the supreme price for Nigeria’s democracy. The government should pay the debts if actually it owes Abiola some money, as his family claims. In the meantime, President Tinubu’s pronouncements last Thursday at the hallowed chamber of the National Assembly stand as homage to resilience and a bold reminder of what might have been.

•Rahman is Senior Assistant to the President on Media and Special Duties.

ENGAGEMENTS

Wrestling with Democracy

Of all the nations that profess an embrace of democracy, Nigeria has had a field day of celebrations in recent times.

Last year, we celebrated 25 years (a quarter of a century) of the return of democracy from over four decades of military autocracy. In 1999, Nigerian history and providence chased off a stubborn military hegemony and replaced it with a hurried and untidy transfer of power to elected civilian authority.

More recently, we have just been celebrating two years of the Tinubu presidency, the 5th such dispensation in the post military period. And last Thursday, once again in an annual ritual that has been in place since after the annulment of the June 12, 1993 election, we observed yet anther episode of the annual June 12

Democracy Day. Prior to now, Democracy Day used to be on May 29th, the day Nigeria returned to democracy after the decades of military rule. Political pressure and expediency has since consecrated June 12 into a national Democracy Day over and above May 29th.

In all this jumble of anniversaries, there is a sense in which Nigeria may have become one nation in which democracy both as a concept and national event has become almost a deity with an annual worship calendar. Different national leaderships now make it a duty to celebrate and observe the various democracy anniversaries if only to remind themselves of their fundamental commitment to developing and consolidating a democratic culture.

For a nation that has spent the better part of its post- colonial history under nondemocratic rule, these fetish observances can be justified. From 1966 to 1999, the greater part of Nigerian history was spent under the jackboot of military leaders. Of the 15 leaders that the nation has been under since after1960, 7 have been pure military officers thrown up by coups in one form or the other. In terms of duration of reign, of the 65 years since after independence in 1960, only roughly 46 years have been spent under sporadic civilian democracies, interrupted, except in the last 25 years, by military interventions.

Of course, no one can celebrate our long military interregnums. Yet no one in their right mind can dismiss the years of military rule as completely wasted. On the contrary, it can be argued that the greatest and boldest acts of nation building in Nigeria took place under the military. The founding fathers hardly began the task of national building. But their single most important achievement was the procurement of flag and anthem independence in 1960.The edifice they inherited from the colonialists was an unfinished business. It was an arrangement, not a viable nation state.

They left us a tripartite ethnic behemoth. Hegemonic peer group conflicts led to ethnic tension and eventually a sad and wasteful civil war. The military intervention that followed, though sad in itself, led to many nation building initiatives. There was the creation of states from 12 to the present 36 state structure of the federation. The military dismantled the hegemonic four region structure and reduced the lure of regional hegemony and antagonism. The military also began the process of integration of the nation by de-sectionalising the security forces. A unified national police and military command structure was created for the nation. Under the new arrangement, personnel from all over the country were deployed to serve all over the country irrespective of their states of origin, thus ending the threat of regional hegemony and ethnicisation of national security institutions which was at the root of the crisis and civil war.

More strategically important, it was the military under the leadership of General Yakubu Gowon that pioneered the establishment of key national unity institutions. The National Youth Service Corp (NYSC) Scheme, now in its 52nd year was established to forge in young Nigerian graduates a new sense of national unity. There was also the establishment of Unity Secondary schools to offer secondary

school education to Nigerian children in their formative years while they embraced a system of national merit moderated by a sense of balance and unity. Children were encouraged to attend these unity schools all over the nation to embrace national unity while growing up under a regime of meritocracy that also allowed for a certain equality of opportunities.

Similar nation building initiatives like the Civil Service Reforms, the Federal Character Principle, quota system and balancing of opportunities in the public services were also initiated. While the policies to pursue a balanced federation were pursued, there was an allowance for the states as federating units to aspire to their individual attainments to excel and develop along their own lines and at their own pace.

However, the mechanisms of nation building adopted by the military were not always well thought out. In an attempt to balance the federation and unify aspirations, the military tended to see the nation more as a barrack than as an organic polity with inherent human diversity and internal differences. The military tended to apply a uniform template which did not provide for the difference of culture and rate of development of different parts of the country. This has of course led to a certain uneven development among different zones of the country. But it does not invalidate the principle of pursuing the challenge of nation building.

The years of democratic intervention in our national history have had their inherent values as well.They have posited a political counter culture to the years of military autocracy. By its nature, military rule is inherently restrictive in terms of citizen freedoms and rights.

The military did not allow the freedoms of expression, association and belief to flourish. A nation, no matter how well structured, is first and fore-

most an organic domain of freedom. When people are not accorded their full rights in a free society, development and national structure mean little. The military restricted freedom in the national space to their unified vision and garrison perspective. With hindsight, we cannot forget too soon our experience under the military jackboot. The military beat us up if they felt we were not observing garrison discipline. They occasionally flogged us with horsewhips for minor traffic offences. They curtailed the freedom of the press, did not allow the flowering of civil society organizations nor allow the flowering of ideas that were antithetical or opposed to the dominance of their authoritarian ethos. You dared not disagree with government. Dissent was treasonous. A society that restricted ideas was bound to die instalmentally. Under the military, our nation was dying gradually as a union of ideals. That was the tragedy that befell Nigeria in the decades of military rule.

However, the spells of democratic civil rule that intervened allowed our people to exhale once again. Due process replaced impunity. Debate replaced ultimatums and commands. Institutions like National and State Assemblies provided avenues for policies and programmes of government to be subjected to interrogation and cross examination. Government lost its magisterial absolutism as elected officials who were accountable to the people replaced arbitrarily selected officialdom.

As against the prevalence of decrees and other forms of arbitrary rule, the moments of democratic rule have allowed for the return of formal legislation at national, state and local government levels as the sources of legislations to guide the making of laws for governance.

Democracy has brought with it the familiar challenges of matching freedom with development. Nigeria’s adoption of the US-type presidential system poses the challenge matching the form of democracy with the substance of social and economic development. Under the existing democratic system, there are 774 local governments, 36 state governments plus one FCTgovernment. And of course, there is an almighty federal

government with 40-50 odd ministries and over 500 extra ministerial departments strewn all over the country.

Questions have been raised about the appropriateness of Nigeria’s present form of democracy as an instrument for development of the country. The central problem is how the nation’s economy can sustain the elaborate machinery of the democratic institutions and also generate enough extra to fund social and economic developments for a nation as large and complex as Nigeria.

In spite of nearly a quarter of a century of formal democracy, therefore, Nigeria is yet to imbibe the cultural attributes of a democratic society. Our politicians still act with impunity on policy issues. The tendency to take arbitrary actions over and above legislated ones remains a constant temptation of the political leadership. The impulse to clamp down on free speech remains a constant temptation with key politicians as they occasionally order the arrest and detention of journalists and opposition figures sometimes for weeks without trial.

In recent times, a few state governors have degenerated into imperial autocrats. They have harassed and intimidated their opponents, used intemperate language in their public utterances and tended to blackmail their appointees into toeing whatever partisan routes they have opted for.

A more interesting spillover of military authoritarian culture on current Nigerian democracy is the deliberate enlistment of military security operatives by politicians during electoral contests. This tendency is a carryover of the notion that military fiat can be summoned to influence the outcome of electoral contests.

It is not only politicians and political leaders who have continued to suffer from this nostalgia for the military days. Even among the civil populace, elements of garrison mentality still linger. People occasionally invite soldiers to settle inter personal squabbles. Soldiers still beat up civilians like power company workers, tax collectors and rival traders in market related squabbles. In disagreements, policemen and soldiers have engaged in open fisticuffs with each other in defiance of law enforcement agencies. In all of these incidents, the basic democratic belief in the rule of law and due process is often jettisoned in favour of jungle justice.

In the electoral process itself, Nigerian democracy has continued to wrestle with the basic requirements of the democratic process. Every democracy depends for its credibility on the reliability of the electoral process itself. Ballots must be cast unimpeded. They must be counted and their count must be the sole determinants of the final outcome of the electoral contest. Once this process is compromised or tampered with in any manner, then the democracy in question is less than free and fair. No matter how elaborately a democracy celebrates itself, ceremony cannot in and of itself confer legitimacy and credibility on the system.

It is commendable that Nigeria has scaled these significant milestones in its democratic journey. It is also opportune that the milestones of democratic transition are celebrated and marked. These ceremonies indicate an irreversible commitment to the sustenance of democracy as a permanent feature of the Nigerian political ecosystem.

Democracy is by no means a destination. It is a process and often a turbulent journey. That journey must however indicate a trajectory of progress. The periodic observance of campaigns and electoral time tables is in itself a sign of progress and commitment to democracy as a destination. But successive governments that result from democratic processes must themselves renew their commitment by reinforcing the guardrails of the democratic endeavor not just as occasional showmanship but as an ingrained cultural value system. A leadership that results from a given democracy can only be as credible as the process that produced it. A credible democracy is therefore the bedrock of a respectable nation.

• Tinubu

Champions of Europe, PSG, to Open Campaign against Atletico

Duro Ikhazuagbe

The first marquee match of the expanded FIFA Club World Cup will hold this evening when newly crowned ueFA Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain file out against Atletico Madrid in California. It is the first meeting between both european clubs in the tournament’s history. It promises to be full of fireworks.

The Club World Cup is a sort of dress rehearsal for the 2026 World Cup to be jointly hosted by uSA, Mexico and Canada. expectedly, uSA has put forward for use in this Club World Cup, five of the venues - Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Hard Rock Stadium, MetLife Stadium, Lincoln Financial Field and Lumen Field - that will also be hosting matches next year.

But before the two european giants clash in California,

Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami headline the first game of the tournament against Al Ahly at the 65,000-capacity Hard Rock Stadium. Although there were skepticism over the tournament in the uS amid the backdrop of apparent ticketing issues and accusations of little regard for player welfare, FIFA President, Gianni Infantino, has insisted that he expects a full house at the game. “I expect a full stadium. We will have an incredible atmosphere. It’s historic.

“We have two teams in that game with very different stories: a young team like Inter Miami that is already known around the world, and the team that has won more trophies than any team in Africa, with millions of fans around the world.”

Infantino remains unfazed by the ticketing issues, stressing that: “It starts a new era of football, a new era of club football. A little bit like in 1930, the first World Cup started.

“everyone today speaks about the very first World Cup. That’s why this World Cup here is historic.

“I’m a positive person generally, but they criticise

FIFA if the prices are too high, then they criticise FIFA if the prices are too low. Then they criticise FIFA if we make ticketing promotions with students. Students! When I

Bayelsa Will Be Number One in Sports, Says Gov Diri

Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, has predicted that the state would soon become number one in sports in nigeria following his administration’s investment in youth development and sports infrastructure.

Bayelsa’s performance in sports has significantly improved in the last few years, emerging second in the last two editions of the national Sports Festival in Delta (2022) and Ogun (2024) and was champion at the maiden niger Delta Sports Festival in April this year.

Governor Diri spoke on Friday during the final of the 2025 Bayelsa Governor’s Football Tournament, christened the Prosperity Cup, at the Samson Siasia Sports Complex in Yenagoa.

He said ahead of completion of a 25,000-capacity stadium, he had directed the Commissioner for Sports, Hon. Daniel Igali, to bid for the state to host the national Sports Festival before he leaves office in 2028.

His words: “On behalf of your government, we will continue to invest in youths via sports development. That is why we are building a 25,000-capacity FIFA-standard stadium.

was a student and I didn’t have money, I would have loved FIFA to come to me and say: ‘You want to come and watch a World Cup match?’”

Despite all these matters raised about the tournament, there is frenzy in the air about who wins the Golden Boot when the tournament caps on July 13.

There’s just such a huge gap between some of the smaller clubs and the respective giants of europe. This one will end with Mbappe, though. Madrid’s group should see them cruise to multi-goal wins each game, and he’s their scoring outlet.

“We want to be number one in sports in nigeria and I believe we can export football to the rest of the country and beyond. We are encouraged that football keeps our youths happy.“

Governor Diri expressed delight that the Prosperity Cup

“We are very ambitious and the stadium will be completed in about two years. I have directed the Commissioner for Sports to bid for the national Sports Festival in 2028.

had taken a new dimension with female football, which began in the last edition, and upgraded this year with the prize money also raised.

He stressed that his administration’s Assured Prosperity Agenda in sports meant no youth should be left out in the scheme of things.

Record Entries Trail Ecobank’s N20m

National

Schools Chess Championship

Following the successful staging of the maiden edition last year, the nigeria Chess Federation (nCF) has officially announced the 2025 edition of the ecobank national Schools Team Chess Championship, set to become the largest scholastic chess event ever held in nigeria.

Over 2,500 students from 450 schools across the country are expected to participate in the high-stakes competition,

which boasts a prize pool exceeding n20 million. At a crowded press briefing held at the ecobank Pan African Centre in Victoria Island, Lagos, the Vice President of nCF, Prince Adeyinka Adewole, described the upcoming event as a “transformative leap forward” for youth chess in nigeria.

“In 2024, we made history with the largest youth chess championship nigeria has ever seen, hosting over 1,200 students. But in 2025, we’re not just raising the

bar—we’re completely redefining it,” said Adewole.

The championship, scheduled from June 26 to 28, will feature competitions in three categories: Primary School (12 years and under) – June 26, Secondary School (18 years and under) – June 27 and Tertiary Institutions (open category) – June 28. Each team will consist of five players, up from four in previous editions, and all games will be played in a Swiss rapid format across six rounds per category.

Fingers are pointing at one of Real Madrid’s lot: either Kylian Mbappe or Vinicius Jr. But it would be nice if Harry Kane does the thing.

There’s a chance that Kane or erling Haaland could each be in double digits by the time the knockout rounds start.

GROUPS

Group A: Palmeiras, FC Porto, Al Ahly (egypt), Inter Miami

Group B: Paris St-Germain, Atletico, Botafogo, Seattle Sounders

Group C: Bayern Munich, Auckland City, Boca Juniors, Benfica

Group D: Flamengo, esperance (Tunisia), Chelsea, Los Angeles FC

Group E: River Plate, urawa Red Diamonds, Monterrey, Inter Milan

Group F: Fluminense, Dortmund, ulsan, Mamelodi (S’Africa)

Group G: Manchester City, Wydad, Al Ain, Juventus

Group H: Real Madrid, Al Hilal, Pachuca, Salzburg

Yusuf Quadri made history yesterday by becoming the first junior player to win both the u-19 and senior men’s categories at the fourth edition of the Prime Atlantic Squash Tournament, held at the Teslim Balogun Stadium, Lagos. Quadri, who displayed exceptional skill and stamina throughout the competition, defeated Farouk Sulaimon, nigeria’s number three-ranked player, 3-1 in the senior final to claim the coveted title. earlier in the day, he had

triumphed over Joshua Daniel in the U-19 final, sealing a 3-1 victory to complete his unprecedented double.

Speaking after his win, Quadri said he was determined to succeed despite the tough competition.

“I played like a champion all through the tournament. I feel motivated to train harder and come back stronger next year,” he said. In the women’s category, nigeria’s top-ranked female player, Rofiat Abdulazeez, retained her title after defeating Faridat Soliu 3-1, marking her second consecutive championship win at the tournament.

The FIFA Club World Cup trophy...32 teams kick off quest to win the 2025 edition

Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri (left), and former Edo State Governor and Director-General, National Institute for Sports, Philip Shaibu, presenting the runners up trophy to captain of Advanced Dreams Football Academy during the finals of the Bayelsa Governor’s Football Tournament at the Samson Siasia Sports Complex in Yenagoa on Friday

INFRASTRUCTURE MEETING IN CHINA...

L-R: General Manager Support and Coordination Dept, China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation Nigeria Limited, Alex Wang; Secretary of CCECC Board, GAO Song; Delta State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu; Delta State Governor, Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori; President, CCECC, Chen Sichang; Technical Assistant to the governor, Bob Nakpodia; Deputy Managing Director, CCECC Nigeria, Irvin Guo; Executive Director, South East Regional Office, CCECC Nigeria, Eric Shen; and Delta Area Manager, CCECC Nigeria, Star Hui, after a meeting with top management of CCECC, at the global headquarters of the construction giant in Beijing, the Chinese capital…yesterday

simon.kolawole@thisdaylive.com, sms: 0805 500 1961

Before Maryam Abacha Gaslights Nigerians

Afew months ago, I saw Mrs Maryam Abacha at the Abuja Continental Hotel (formerly Sheraton Hotel). She was about to alight from a car when I caught a glimpse of her. For a 78-year-old woman, she still looked elegant and gorgeous — nearly 27 years after she was shorn of the power and the glory of being Nigeria’s first lady. I imagined how she has coped with the tragedy of losing many loved ones, including her husband and two of her sons, Ibrahim and Abdullahi, over the years. Even though I was never a fan of her husband who ruled Nigeria with maximum brutality between 1993 and 1998, I still had an urge to greet her — out of courtesy for an elderly woman. But I let it pass. The next time I would see the woman was on TV. There was nothing elegant or gorgeous in her words. She only reopened old wounds. This is one of those instances when silence is golden. If Mrs Abacha was talking to toddlers and teens, I would have

People make up “alternative facts” and pass their imaginations and fabrications to the next generation. But she was speaking to an audience that included those of us who witnessed the murderous and plundering regime of her husband. Some of us will not allow her to re-write history. No, she can’t gaslight us. Regarding the billions of dollars looted by her husband, she demanded to know who witnessed the plunder, as if she was talking to a congregation of retards. “Who is the witness of the monies that were being stashed? Did you see the signature or the evidence of any monies stashed abroad? And the monies that my husband kept vanished in a few months. People are not talking about that.” She even sent posers to Abacha’s critics: “Why are you blaming somebody? Is that tribalism or a religious problem or what is the problem with Nigerians? Where did he steal the money from? Where would he have stolen the money from? And because Nigerians are fools, they listen to everything.”

I don’t know where to start from. But before we get to the pillaging of the national treasury by Abacha and his associates, we should first attend to her “tribalism” and “religious” problem. For the record, it was Gen Abdulsalami Abubakar, a northerner and a Muslim, who started the process of identifying and recovering the Abacha loot. In July 1998, he set up a special investigation panel (SIP), headed by Mr Peter Gana, then a deputy commissioner at the special fraud unit (SFU) of the police force. Within four months, the SIP found evidence of organised plundering at the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). The panel sent a preliminary report to the government, detailing the financial crimes.

The looting was well orchestrated through the office of the national security adviser (ONSA). Mr Enrico Monfrini, the Swiss lawyer engaged by President Olusegun Obasanjo to go after the looted funds, detailed the activities

President Tinubu and June 12

Around this period in 1993, precisely on June 12, 1993, the day of that historic election, this writer operated in two different but mutually reinforcing capacities. While I was the Political Correspondent of the old Daily Times, covering the then-unfolding electoral process in Abuja, I was also an officer in the Nigerian Election Monitoring Group monitoring the poll in the federal capital. It was an important day in the nation’s life, as it was in my journalism career. The late Professor Omo Omoruyi, an intellectual giant and the brains behind General Ibrahim Babangida and his transition programme, who designed most of the electoral ideas introduced by that regime, including Option A4, had put the election monitoring group together.

As the Political Correspondent of the Daily Times, I had an uneasy sense of foreboding when the then National Electoral

Commission, which had been announcing the results of the election on a display board mounted at the commission’s headquarters then at Area 10, Abuja, suddenly stopped adding new results after results from 14 states had been announced. I promptly filed a story on this strange and disturbing development. The next day, the late Dr. Femi Sonaike, Editor of the Daily Times at the time, ran a front-page editorial demanding the continuation of the publication of the results. I was beside myself in ecstasy at the NEC HQ, celebrating the editorial and Dr. Sonaike’s bravery and boldness. For a government-owned newspaper, the editorial was an unforgivable affront to the military. As it turned out, that was the last edition Dr. Sonaike edited as Daily Times Editor. He was instantly removed from office.

Then began a sad spiral of events, culminating in an announcement formally annulling that free and fair election. A dark pall descended on the nation. The country

erupted in turmoil, with almost daily protests against the election’s annulment. The rest did not simply become history, as they say, but a profound history with compelling lessons.

This piece is not an odyssey of my journalism career. It’s about President Bola Tinubu and the undocumented contributions to June 12, particularly after that annulment. Tinubu played a frontline role in the conception and later agitation of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), which stridently fought for the de-annulment of June 12.

At the time of the election, he was a Senator of the Federal Republic. In defiance of the military, he and others reconvened the Senate that had gone on recess, during which they demanded the de-annulment of the poll or immediate termination of military rule.

For his agitation, the military hounded him. His residence at Balarabe Musa

Crescent in Victoria Island, Lagos was petrol-bombed by agents of the junta who thought he had been burnt alive. However, he escaped abroad and continued the agitation, providing direction and funding for NADECO Chieftians abroad. All of that had been widely publicised and commended.

Many may also recall that iconic and viral picture, which circulated online, where Asiwaju Tinubu was seen behind the late Bashorun MKO Abiola as Abiola went to confer with the late dictator, General Sani Abacha, on the June 12 matter. The significance of that event signposted Asiwaju’s relationship with MKO as a trusted ally and his essential role in the then-unfolding struggle. Asiwaju Tinubu, it was learned, warned the late MKO to tread cautiously and be wary of Abacha or the military over June 12. As he often says,

Continued on page 61

Maryam Abacha