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Ngige: Buhari Authorised Suspension of NSITF Top Officials MD, others accused of spending N3.4 billion without due process NLC confirms suspension order Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja Minister of Labour and Employment, Senator Chris Ngige, has dismissed claims by the Nigeria Employers' Consultative Association

(NECA) that the suspension of the management of Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) violated the disciplinary procedure approved by President Muhammadu Buhari. Nigige’s

position was corroborated by the account of President of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Ayuba Wabba, who stated that Buhari gave the directive for the suspension of the

Managing Director of NSITF, Mr. Adebayo Somefun, and other top management staff of the fund.

NECA had raised objections over the suspension of the NSITF management team

and said the president did not approve it. In a letter to the labour minister, signed by NECA’s DirectorGeneral, Timothy Olawale, the association referred to a presidential procedure

released by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, which was meant to stem the arbitrary removal of chief executives of government Continued on page 10

Address Electricity Market Challenges Before Cost Reflectivity, Discos Tell NERC…Page 5 Sunday 5 July, 2020 Vol 25. No 9218

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Edo Poll: Undercurrents that May Shape Outcome Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City As the two main gladiators in the Edo State governorship election, Governor Godwin

Obaseki of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and his key rival, Pastor Osagie IzeIyamu of the All Progressives Congress (APC), ready for an epic showdown on September

19, certain undercurrents look set to determine the final outcome.

Tension and speculation are at fever pitch, but from all indications, the battle is

not anyone’s to lose yet.

However, each passing day reveals gradually evidence that the final outcome may follow some existential extrapolations.

Come September 19, Edo

State will go to the polls to elect a governor to pilot the affairs of the state for the next four years. They will either re-elect Obaseki, who is running on his record in

the last almost four years, or opt for his main challenger, Ize-Iyamu, who incidentally was Obaseki’s challenger some Continued on page 5

APC to EFCC: Investigate Reports Linking PDP Leaders with Hushpuppi Saraki: Your statement is dirty, cheap and irresponsible Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja The All Progressives Congress (APC) has called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), and sister agencies to investigate money-laundering reports, allegedly, linking some Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leaders and an online fraudster, Ramon Olorunwa Abbas, also known as “Hushpuppi”.

But in a swift reaction, former Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, described the ruling party’s statement as dirty, cheap and irresponsible politics.

Hushpuppi was recently arrested alongside his associates in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), and extradited to the United States to face trial over cyber-enabled

fraud and Business Email Compromise (BEC) schemes.

But Deputy National Publicity Secretary of APC, Mr. Yekini Nabena, in a statement issued Saturday, said Hushpuppi's case should be a matter of serious worry to relevant authorities in Nigeria. Nabena recalled that the PDP leadership had turned Dubai into a “strategic” meeting place ahead of the 2019 general election, adding that Hushpuppi’s affinity with the PDP leadership is not a mere coincidence.

The APC Deputy National Publicity Secretary stated, "Reports of the criminal conspiracy linking the top echelon of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) with Ramon Olorunwa Abbas, also known as ‘Ray Continued on page 5

DATELINE 1953: GREAT MONARCH MET GREAT STATESMAN...

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adesoji Aderemi, is welcomed by Winston Churchill to the grounds of Blenheim Palace, the Prime Minister’s birthplace, during the Commonwealth Prime Ministers Conference on June 8, 1953. Churchill shaking hands with Oba Aderemi is described by the Churchill Book Collective as “a poignant moment in the Empire’s twilight.” Churchill was in opposition to the independence of British colonies. The following ˾See story and pictures on pages 66 & 67 year, Nigeria’s regions became autonomous. Oba Aderemi is being remembered today 40 years after his death

Umahi, Benue SSG, Head of Service, Others Test Positive for Covid-19… Page 8

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Address Electricity Market Challenges Before Cost Reflectivity, Discos Tell NERC Peter Uzoho Distribution Companies (Discos) have urged the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to postpone implementation of the planned cost-reflective electricity tariff to January 2021. This is to allow for a concrete resolution to issues that have hindered the smooth operation of the electricity market, according to a letter by the concerned Discos.

The Discos’ reaction came amid the on-going controversy over the proposed hike in electricity tariff. The new tariff system had been scheduled by NERC to take effect from July 1, 2020, after an initial postponement from April 1, 2020. But President of the Senate, Ahmed Lawan, recently announced its deferment to the first quarter of 2021 following a meeting with the electricity industry regulators, NERC, and representatives of the Discos.

Lawan said the timing was wrong, given the economic hardship brought about by the coronavirus pandemic.

He also said, “Appropriate measures need to be put in place” before any tariff increment.

However, as at the time of filing in this report, NERC has yet to issue any communication as to whether

the new tariff will take-off as planned or not, a situation that has left the power distributors in confusion.

The Discos, had in a letter addressed to the chairman of NERC, which was obtained

by THISDAY, said rather than rushing to implement the cost-reflective tariff, the regulator should take urgent steps to address holistically the fundamental challenges confronting the country's electricity market. They believed the implementation of cost-reflective tariffs was a step in the right direction for the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI), but said it must be applied correctly to achieve the desired result.

The Discos listed the macroeconomic and market issues that should be resolved prior to the planned tariff increase to include unencumbered Disco balance sheet, realistic minimum remittance levels required for market discipline and liquidity, and removal of estimated billing caps together with need for updated billing methodology.

Others are reduced exposure to volumetric, grid failure, generation and forex risks; risks and revenue gap; MDA debt deduction from Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading Plc (NBET) invoice; and effect of COVID-19 on

the Discos’ performance.

According to the Discos, implementation and completion of the balance sheet clean up exercise prior to the increase of tariffs is necessary to facilitate positive signalling to attract new investors and lenders.

They said the commission should engage with them to analyse and re-compute the minimum remittance levels to be used in the new order, taking into account objections raised by the Discos.

“The commission should engage with the Discos to analyse and re-compute the historical shortfalls that are to be carried on the books of Discos,” the Discos said in the letter. “The commission should engage with all industry participants for the agreement of the apportionment of risks to the rightful parties,” they added.

The letter also said, “The commission should engage Discos, CBN and other agencies of government on the need for an Emergency Meter Rollout Scheme to move the metering level in NESI to above 90 per cent within 18 months.

“The commission should bring out an order making it illegal for consumers to consume electricity without having a meter after a period of one month. A balance

should also be in place to penalise a Disco for not supplying a meter within a reasonable period after a customer has applied and paid for a meter.”

The Discos' letter further read, “The commission should engage jointly with Discos for proper customer and stakeholder engagement for effective communication of the need for tariff increase.

“The disjointed communication without support from the commission is doing little to inspire confidence of the customers.

This tariff increase should not be perceived as distribution companies acting solely without the commission’s backing.

“All new FGN interventions in the sector should be better structured to avoid further liabilities on Discos’ books.

We believe all disbursement should be passed through Discos’ books, passing of entries are a non-monetary way to ensure Discos’ balance sheets are unencumbered by market liabilities.”

Going forward, the Discos proposed that NBET’s invoicing should reflect the remittance obligations due to Discos and the federal government. They explained that the measure would separate market liabilities covered by the intervention and ensure the liabilities are

not negatively reported on the Discos’ balance sheet.

The Discos said in setting new remittance levels, proper alignment of the Aggregate Technical, Commercial, and Collection (ATC&C) losses must be done, in addition to giving strategic consideration to the impact of ministries, departments, and agency’s (MDA) losses on Disco performance.

The Discos stated that the reality of Discos’ ATC&C should be considered to achieve higher levels of compliance with minimum remittance in the sector, warning that without a much more balanced view of current realities and efficiency targets, the envisioned success of the power sector may be in jeopardy.

The Discos stated in their letter that they could be allowed to reach an agreement with the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) on allowable losses, which takes cognisance of all operational and financial limitations. They believed the mutually agreed targets should then be utilised

by NERC in its minimum remittance thresholds.

The letter added, “Fixed charges must be re-introduced if the merit order system set up by NERC is to be successful. Discos should not be made to pay for capacity charge that is not allowed to

pass through in retail tariffs.

“No new generation capacity should be procured without Discos being privy to the discussions and negotiations and agreement of the commercial terms of the PPAs. There is need to align wholesale prices in active PPAs with those in MYTO model.

“The order on capped estimated billing should be rescinded. To address the issue of estimated billing, Discos will submit a methodology that works for all and is not punitive.

“Government should promote the need for mass metering by lending its voice to announcements that encourage customers to seek meters, which should be a focus for any major funding at the moment.”

The letter also said, “What the sector requires is mass metering and not MAP metering, as the latter is more medium to longer term.

An urgent short-term rollout needs to be structured with government support.

“The split up of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) must be implemented speedily and given the utmost priority for the establishment of a wholly independent system operator capable of meeting the needs of the industry as a fair arbiter in the new scheme.”

statement credited to the APC, the ruling party in our country, is one of the ways by which our anti-graft agencies are weakened and why the fight against corruption in the country is often viewed with suspicion by the international community.

“This is because when these cyber-crime suspects were operating freely and openly displaying wealth, the APC saw nothing bad in their activities. Also, the party at that time did not deem it necessary to call on the anti-graft agencies to investigate their activities.

“Since the arrest of those cyber crime suspects and the subsequent damage to the image and the economy of Nigeria as well

as the crisis it created for Nigerians engaged in lawful businesses across the world, the ruling party had been muted. The only time the APC deemed it necessary to make a statement was when it thought it should play dirty, cheap and irresponsible politics.

“Dr. Saraki is the only political leader who has publicly made a statement through an Op-Ed article published in the Daily Trust newspaper of July 1, 2020 titled ‘Cyber Criminals: Confronting The Few Who Dent Many’, and this opinion article had been widely circulated online and on other platforms.

“In that article, he strongly condemned the activities of these cyber

criminals and called on the law enforcement agencies and other stakeholders to make decisive interventions to checkmate their activities.

He has also got a research institution, the Politeia Institute, whose board he chairs, to commence a research on the best ways to tackle the menace.

“Such a noble intervention in tackling a menace is what Dr. Saraki believes in, not mudslinging and playing politics at the expense of the nation’s image.

“At this point, we call on the APC leadership to rein in the so-called Yekini Nabena and compel him to desist from making and circulating such malicious, odious and offensive claims.”

of history are factored in.

Off-season elections, like the ones about to hold in Edo and Ondo states, are usually an easier turf to deploy the full powers of the federal government in trying to sway outcomes.

federation, is made up of three senatorial districts. Edo South has 58 per cent of the state’s voting population, Edo Central has 16 per cent, and Edo North has 26 per cent.

But this percentage sharing, unfortunately, may not apply as it currently stands.

The factor of candidate’s advantage may play a key role in determining the voting pattern.

the two gladiators are both sons of the soil. So both are going to split the votes of the district.

The people are at an advantage in the sense that whoever wins, power will not shift from the zone.

But they are also in a kind of dilemma as to who to support between their two sons. Of key importance here is the personal influence and likability of the candidates and how much of mobilisation they can do.

APC TO EFCC: INVESTIGATE REPORTS LINKING PDP LEADERS WITH HUSHPUPPI Hushpuppi’, who was recently arrested along with associate(s) in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and extradited to the United States of America to face trial over cyber-enabled fraud and Business Email Compromise (BEC) schemes should be a matter of serious interest to relevant authorities in Nigeria.

"We note that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has already declared the arraigned Instagram celebrity wanted over fraud allegations. However, the EFCC, Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), and other sister agencies must investigate money laundering reports linking some PDP leaders and financiers to the Dubai-based

international criminal ring.

"At different times, ‘Hushpuppi’ has been photographed in Dubai meeting with the PDP’s 2019 presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar; former Senate President, Bukola Saraki; former Speaker, House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara; and Senator Dino Melaye, among other PDP stalwarts."

Nabena challenged the PDP leadership to open up on the nature of the relationship between them and the arrested fraudster, particularly, the kind of services Hushpuppi provided them. He said in the lead-up to the Edo and Ondo governorship elections, APC was renewing calls against monetised

elections and vote buying schemes, which it alleged PDP had serially deployed in elections.

“We call on relevant authorities to up their guard to prevent these practices that threaten the sanctity of our elections. The people’s will and votes should determine elections, not illicit money used to buy votes,” Nabena stated.

However, Saraki, in a statement issued Saturday by his media aide, Mr. Yusuph Olaniyonu, described the statement by the APC as irresponsible and cheap politics, noting that he has no form of association with the suspect, Hushpuppi, and does not know him in any way.

Olaniyonu stated, “The

EDO POLL: UNDERCURRENTS THAT MAY SHAPE OUTCOME four years ago.

A two-horse race, the major political parties, APC and PDP, are on a familiar terrain, more so since the candidates of the two parties had contested against each other in 2016. While the incumbent governor, Obaseki, had contested on the platform of APC, IzeIyamu carried the PDP flag.

Today, however, fate has swapped platforms for them. Unlike in 2016, when Obaseki contested and won on the APC platform, he has found himself in the PDP ahead of the September 19 election, while Ize-Iyamu, who was PDP’s candidate in 2016, has found himself in APC, which he had left six years ago to pursue his

governorship ambition.

Interestingly, both PDP and APC are quite conscious of the importance of the September 19 governorship election to the present political equation in the state, region and country, and their future prognoses, the reason the two parties have set up high-powered election committees to lead them to victory.

APC appointed the governor of Kano State, Abdulahi Ganduje, as the chairman of its election committee, while PDP chose Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike to lead it in the quest for re-election.

With the stage set and the committees deployed to work, many factors

are already competing for attention in the choice of the next governor of Edo State.

Incumbency Factor Obaseki certainly has the power of incumbency to his advantage. But in Nigeria, this is greatly limited when your party is not in control of the police, military and all other security services that are usually deployed to monitor elections and provide security.

The governor’s incumbency advantage may be effectively neutralised by the federal might. As a matter of fact, Ize-Iyamu may even be the ultimate beneficiary of federal might if the lessons

Voting Pattern What will make the battlefield more interesting is that both contestants know each other in terms of their strengths and weaknesses.

But what may likely swing the votes for either of the two remains the calibre of political heavyweights queuing behind him.

Another factor is the voting population. Edo, like any other states of the

Edo South: A Winwin Situation Edo South holds all the aces, as whoever secures the entire voting strength in the district can as well go to sleep. But it cannot be entirely so this time because

Edo North: A Battle of Influence In Edo North, the ballot, no Continued on page 8

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Buhari Commends Nigerian Who Returned Money, Rejected Compensation in Japan Omololu Ogunmade in Abuja President Muhammadu Buhari yesterday sent a commendation message to a Nigerian who returned a missing wallet with huge sums of money to the police in Japan.

He also praised Ikenna

Nweke, a PhD student in the University of Tsukuba, Japan, for not only returning the huge sums, but also turned down the offer of a percentage by the authorities.

The president, according to a statement by his media adviser, Mr. Femi Adesina, said Buhari saluted Nweke

for projecting the values of honesty, integrity and contentment that should be the hallmark of a people.

According to Buhari, good virtues and propriety are the hallmarks of every culture in Nigeria, while crimes and criminalities are exceptions.

Adesina said the president

believed Nweke’s behaviour was coming at a period that the country needs a positive spotlight and close-up on its real values.

He said Nweke's honest disposition clearly signposted the mindset that should hold the nation together, inspired by solid foundations laid by

most families, religious bodies and communities for success in life.

The president wished Nweke all the best in his studies as well as his job as a teaching assistant in the same university.

He also enjoined all Nigerians, home and abroad,

to keep celebrating what he described as the age-old, irreplaceable attributes of honesty and decorum.

He also admonished citizens to shun what he described as the microwaved, get-richquick tendencies that bring both individual and collective shame.

(NADECO) chieftain, and former national chairman of APC is an influential figure when it comes to politics of Nigeria as well as Edo State. He has never belonged to the same political group with the Igbinedions, having defeated the junior Igbinedion in 1991 in the days of the defunct Social Democratic Party (SDP) and National Republican Convention (NRC).

However, fate might have brought them together in the Obaseki governorship struggle, even when they still have different political ideologies. Although Oyegun is still a member of the APC, he has political sympathy for Obaseki. The problem, nevertheless, remains that the chief in most cases never wins his polling boot.

In overall margin in the state, though, he has always won. He normally lost his unit to Igbinedion, as both vote in the same polling centre. Nothing is sacrosanct in politics, as their collaboration might do the magic this time around.

influential positions. But Ikhimi is yet to fill this gap, hence the loss of direction in the Edo political space.

Granted that his ethnic group is the smallest in terms of size and population, they had a voice when Anenih was alive. Can Ikimi, the Oduma of Igueben, rise to the task using the September 19 governorship election to turn things around for the PDP and his people? Election day will determine that.

and personal relationship would play a big role than the expected brigandage in some quarters.

For instance, in Edo South, there are grassroots figures like two-time member of the state and federal legislatures, Samson Osagie; two-time member of the state assembly and former member of the House of Representatives, Patrick Obahiagbon; twotime member of the state assembly and former Speaker, Elizabeth Ativie; and former two-time deputy governor and two-time member, House of Representatives, Dr. Pius Odubu.

There is also former deputy governor, Mr. Lucky Imasuen; member representing Ovia Federal Constituency, Dennis Idahosa; Patrick Aisoweren (Uhumwonde/Orhiomwon federal constituency); General Charles Airhiavere; and Dr. Chris Ogiemwonyi; Senator Matthew Urhoghide (PDP); former NDDC Commissioner and Majority Leader, Matthew Iduoriyekemwen; and Omoregie OgbeideIhama, and many others.

In Edo Central, there are the incumbent Speaker, Francis Okiye; four other members of the state assembly; Joe Ediowele, representing Esan West/ Esan Central/Igueben federal constituency; Senator Clifford Ordia, Chief Theo Okoh; and Anselm Ojezua, factional chairman of APC, who will lock horns with APC stalwarts like Patrick Ikhariale, two-time member, House of Representatives, Chief Francis Inegbeneki, Dr. Tony Omoaghae, two-time member, Edo State House of Assembly and two-time local government chairman, Hon. Patrick Aguinede, and Col. David Imuse, Oshiomholeled chairman of APC in the state.

From Edo North, former Speaker Kabiru Adjoto; former Senator Domingo Obende; Etsako Central local government chairman, Hon. John Akhigbe; former deputy governor and onetime CoS to former President Goodluck Jonathan, Chief Mike Akhigbe; former PDP state chairman, Chief Dan Orbih, will be at the battlefront with the likes of Prof, Julius Ihonvbere (Owan federal constituency), Peter Akpatason (AkokoEdo federal Constituency, Johnson Oghuma (Etsako federal constituency), Senator Francis Alimikhena, as well as seven members-elect but not inaugurated lawmakers, among others.

The election promises to be an epic battle.

EDO POLL: UNDERCURRENTS THAT MAY SHAPE OUTCOME doubt, would be contested between the incumbent deputy governor, Philip Shaibu, who defected with his boss to the PDP, and the former national chairman of the APC, Adams Oshiomhole. The question is, can Shaibu influence enough votes for the PDP to secure a win? The answer seems of little significance, because whatever influence he wields was also because of the Oshiomhole factor.

Ordinarily, Shaibu does not command a great deal of foot soldiers, except the usual brigandage invoked to try to influence things by force.

Incidentally, Shaibu has a match in the person of Ganiyu Audu, who is the running mate to Ize-Iyamu.

A grassroots politician, who may also ride on the influence of religion, especially, as a Muslim with appreciably large number of faithful, Audu is definitely not a pushover in the equation. His choice appears to have consciously balanced religion - Christian/ Muslim ticket, unlike PDP’s Christian/Christian ticket.

Interestingly, this is the first time since the 1999 that a Muslim deputy is on the ticket. Many Edo Muslims are likely to see this as a positive for the Muslim community’s long agitation for a voice at the centre of power in Edo State.

Besides, of the eight state constituencies, only two were sworn in, leaving six yet to be inaugurated, which, in political calculation, is not an encouraging one.

Therefore, with a ratio of two (Oshiomhole and Audu) to one (Shaibu), Edo North still does not stand in this contest as a battleground region, but a place where subsisting influence could count largely.

A major influence in Edo North, no matter the misgivings, is Oshiomhole, who is a former governor of the state and former national chairman of APC. Those who think his suspension has reduced his influence, both in his district and the entire Edo, will be making the greatest political mistake of their lives, because hate him or like him, the diminutive ‘Adamant’ Adams had made and is still making people across the three senatorial districts, who may not likely abandon him. In fact, his suspension and eventual lose of his position as national chairman of the ruling party will likely attract sympathy to his message to the people of the zone to vote out Obaseki. Also very important is the fact that Oshiomhole’s lose of the

APC chairmanship has left Edo North with no influential voice at the national level of power. As one observer put it recently, "With Oshiomhole's ouster, our people have lost their only voice in national politics." The people are likely going to take note of this and also blame Shuaibu, largely seen as the instigator of the purported suspension that ultimately led to Oshiomhole's fall.

Edo Central: The Battleground District The central district appears small but it may play a significant role, being predominantly a PDPdominated area. But the question is, what stake do they have here apart from their son, Hon. Francis Okiye, who is playing the dual role of Speaker of the House of Assembly as APC member in the day, but is PDP at night in solidarity with the governor. At the end of the day, the speaker is not a vote-swinging factor here. This, therefore, makes the central district the real battleground, where the two parties, their candidates and supporters would have to deploy everything humanly possible to secure as many votes as possible.

The district would likely be the decider in the battle for Edo Government House.

Contradictions Edo South

are still in APC and would ostensibly give him support on the day of election.

However, Uhumwonde will be a no go area for Obaseki, because of the influence of a two-time member of the House of Representatives, Samson Osagie; Washington Osifo, who was yet to be inaugurated as state assembly member. However, the governor's Man Friday, Hon. Charles Idahosa, is there to also stop any aggression.

Still on Edo South, the governor will have to contend with six members-elect from his district he prevented from being inaugurated out of 10. They are those from Uhunmwonde, Oredo East, Oredo West, Ovia North East I, Ovia North East II, and Ovia South-west. Those also deprived in Edo North, where Obaseki's deputy, Shaibu, hails from, who make up 30 per cent of Edo State voting population, may want to take their pound of flesh. They are the people of Etsako West I, Etsako West II, Etsako Central, Etsako East, Owan East, Owan West and Akoko-Edo Ii. Political influence will play an equally major role in the entire process. Edo has its fair share of political heavyweights, who cannot be ignored.

Unveiling the Unveiling the Power Centres Centres Power

in Chief Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion

Attention must be paid to certain contradictions in Edo South, where the two contestants hail from.

Obaseki is from Oredo local government with two state constituencies. Ize-Iyamu is from Orhiomwon, also with two state constituencies.

The two, having cancelled out each other’s home advantage, the possibility is high that the governor might take Ovia North-east local government, still with two state constituencies, because of the influence of the Esama of Benin, Chief Gabriel Igbinedion, and his children, a former governor, Chief Lucky Igbinedion, and a former member of the House of Representatives, Omosede Igbinedion.

Another advantage the governor may have is the role the member representing Ego/Ikpba-Okha Federal Constituency under the platform of PDP, Jude IseIdehen, would play. Added to this is the influence of members of his cabinet, who have not formally crossed with him to the PDP but

The Esama of Benin is one of those that have always made political statements in favour of persons they support. On the surface, he is in support of Obaseki since his son, a former governor of the state, Chief Lucky Igbinedion, and daughter, Omosede Igbinedion, a former House of Representatives member, were among those that brokered the defection of Obaseki from APC to PDP. However, it is on record that Ize-Iyamu is Chief Igbinedion's political son and among the influential figures during the tenure of his son as governor for eight years. He was one of those that influenced Ize-Iyamu in 2014 to dump ACN/APC for PDP, where he contested.

Whether he will dump IzeIyamu this time remains to be seen, as the chief is said to be in a quandary.

Chief John OdigeOyegun The former governor of Edo State, ex-National Democratic Coalition

Comrade Adams Oshiomhole The labour leader-turnedpolitician remains an influential figure in both national and local politics any day. Although, he has his weaknesses and shortcomings, which make him human, the former governor of Edo State used his eight years as governor maximally to spread his tentacles almost everywhere in the state.

As national chairman of APC, he made men and women in the state by influencing appointments in their favour. In doing so, he never discriminated when such appointments were given. How PDP will make an in-road in the entire state and Edo North, in particular, where he comes from, remains to be seen.

Chief Tom Ikimi One-time national chairman of the defunct NRC, former Minister of Foreign Affairs, a chieftain in the defunct APP, chieftain of the ACN/ APC and PDP at various times, Chief Tom Ikimi has carved a niche for himself in the nation’s political space as one to be respected.

With the demise of former chairman PDP’s Board of Trustees (BoT), Chief Tony Anenih, no one is in doubt that the chief from Igueben would step into his shoes as a replacement for the good of Edo Central, having occupied

Hon. Francis Okiye The present speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly was once Majority Leader of the state assembly. He is a grassroots politician, who has seen it all in local politics. He wields enormous influence, but can this influence translate into electoral victory for Obaseki, who has left him to pursue his governorship ambition in a different political party, which brought two of them together as speaker and governor?

Usman Shagadi The late sectional chairman of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), until his demise, was a good political ally of Obaseki, who inherited him from Oshiomhole. Until he joined the ACN/APC, he was a strong political figure in Edo North and member of the PDP. Shagadi’s political prowess came to light when he quarrelled with Oshiomhole in 2015. To stamp his feet, he fielded a PDP candidate who defeated Oshiomhole’s choice in APC. His death recently will be a big minus for Obaseki and Shaibu in the September 19 governorship election.

Now, the Foot Soldiers In Edo State, today, the absurdity is in having a state governor and deputy governor belonging to the PDP while the 10 inaugurated members of the state assembly are in the APC. The election is, therefore, going to be a tough one. This is due, particularly, to the incumbency factor, which cannot be ignored in any election. The fact, however, remains that there are other personalities not mentioned above, but who are influential in their domains in the three senatorial districts and would try to sway things for the two candidates. They are the foot soldiers. This is critical, given the fact that money

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Umahi, Benue SSG, Head of Service, Others Test Positive for Covid-19 NCDC records 603 new cases, tally now 28,167, discharges 11462 and deaths 634

Onyebuchi Ezigbo, Adedayo Akinwale, Udora Orizu in Abuja and Martins Ifijeh in Lagos Ebony State Governor, David Umahi; Secretary to the Benue State Government, Prof. Tony Ijohor; Chief of Staff to Governor Samuel Ortom of Benue State, Mr. Terwase Ortunde; Head of Service for Benue State, Mrs. Veronica Onyeke and the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Benue State University, Markurdi, Prof. Godwin Achinge have all tested positive for the coronavirus disease.

This is as the World Health Organisation (WHO) yesterday discontinued for the second time, Hydroxychloroquine clinical trial for the treatment of COVID-19, saying it has no positive effect on patient recovery.

This is just as NCDC reported 603 new confirmed cases, raising total tally to 28,167, discharges 11,462, while death toll so far stands at 634.

Lagos recorded 135, followed

by Edo 87, FCT 73, Rivers 67, Delta 62, Ogun 47, Kaduna 20, Plateau 19, Ondo 16, Enugu 15, Oyo 15, Borno 13, Niger 6, Nasarawa 4, Kebbi 3, Kano 2, Sokoto 1 and Abia 1.

However, confirming Umahi’s test result on Saturday, the governor's Special Assistant on Media, Mr. Francis Nwaze, said some close aides of the governor had also tested positive for the virus.

Nwaze said though the governor was not showing any symptom of the disease at the moment, he has elected to go into self-isolation in keeping with the health protocol established by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC).

"The governor has directed his deputy, Mr. Kelechi to coordinate the state's fight against the disease and appealed to the citizens to take the NCDC protocol serious. He will currently be working from home and will be conducting all meetings virtually,” the statement said.

Umahi had earlier said he was expecting the result of his second covid-19 test, which he promised to make public.

In Benue, Governor Samuel Ortom confirmed the result of

his SSG, Ijohor and Ortunde at a news conference held in the state capital, Markurdi.

While confirming those of Onyeke and Achinge, the governor said results from the tests carried out in the last one week showed that 35 persons in the state tested positive for the virus.

"My test result came out negative but medical officers said another test will be carried out on me after three days. So, after this interaction, I will isolate myself. I will be in isolation until I have clearance from the medical Officers.

"Covid-19 is real and I enjoin my people to take preventive measures seriously. I want my people to be alive and free from the disease. We have to stop the spread of the disease by maintaining all the covid-19 protocols," he said.

WHO Discontinues Hydroxychloroquine for the Second Time For the second time running, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has discontinued the clinical trial of Hydroxychloroquine for the treatment of COVID-19, saying it has no positive effect on patient recovery.

Announcing this Saturday, the UN body said the decision to discontinue the research was due to recommendation from its International Steering Committee on Solidarity Trial, adding that it has also discontinued trial for lopinavir and ritonavir.

It said: "The International Steering Committee formulated the recommendation in light of the evidence for hydroxychloroquine vs standardof-care and for lopinavir/ ritonavir vs standard-of-care from the solidarity trial interim results, and from a review of the evidence from all trials presented at the July 1 and 2 WHO Summit on COVID-19 Research and Innovation.

"These interim trial results show that hydroxychloroquine and lopinavir/ritonavir produce little or no reduction in the mortality of hospitalised COVID-19 patients, when compared to standard of care.

Solidarity trial investigators will interrupt the trials with immediate effect."

It said for each of the drugs, the interim results do not provide solid evidence of increased mortality, adding that there were however some associated safety signals in the clinical laboratory findings of the add-on discovery trial, a participant in the solidarity trial. These, it said would also be reported in the peer-reviewed publication. ''This decision applies only to the conduct of the solidarity trial in hospitalised patients and does not affect the possible evaluation in other studies of hydroxychloroquine or lopinavir/ritonavir in nonhospitalised patients or as pre- or post-exposure prophylaxis for COVID-19. The interim solidarity results are now being readied for peer-reviewed publication," it said.

COVID-19: National Health Research Committee Proposes N200m for Research The Minister of Health, Dr. Osagie Ehanire has revealed that the National Health Research Committee has developed a work plan of N200 million for 2020.

Ehanire disclosed this at the weekend in a presentation before the House of Representatives Ad-hoc Committee on COVID-19 during investigative hearing on "Need to Investigate the Status of Medical Research in the Fight Against Covid-19 and Other Diseases in Nigeria".

The Minister, who called for adequate funding for research into COVID-19 in Nigeria, said no fund had been released for COVID-19 research activities since the advent of the pandemic.

He told the lawmakers that the major challenge in finding solution to the coronavirus disease is lack of funds for research and development in the country.

According to Ehanire, "The Research Division of FMOH is actively involved in Nigeria COVID-19 Research Consortium (NCRC), which is a conglomerate of research entities from the

government, NCDC, the academia and private sector.

Several research protocols are being reviewed by the NCRC for possible sponsorship.

"The NCRC had developed a research agenda for conducting the WHO COVID-19 research roadmap, with TO thematic areas. This agenda has been adopted by the NHRC. "The WHO Solidarity Trial is currently ongoing and the National Health Research Ethics Committee (NHREC) and The National Agency for Food and Drugs (NAFDAC) carrying out an expedited review of the protocol with the secretariat provided by the DHPRS at FMOH. "There are nine states in the country currently registered to participate in the trial with a total of 19 clinical trial sites.

More states could still register to participate. Virtual training for all Principal investigators in the trial is billed for the next two weeks.

"The Research Technical Working Group of the Presidential Taskforce on COVlD-19 has recently been formed and the of Department of Planning Research and Statistics (DHPRS) will serve as its Secretariat. The inauguration of this Committee is scheduled for next week".

He added: "NHREC and NAFDAC had also developed an MOU for expedited review of COVlD-19 research protocol for clinical trial in Nigeria NHREC and NAFDAC are currently reviewing the WHO solidarity trial protocol on COVID-19".

In his presentation, the Director-General of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCD) Chikwe Ihekweazu said the Centre had rounded off a pilot study on COVID-19 in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and the research work would be extended to other parts of country, adding that NCDC is conducting a few studies on clinical management on healthcare workers infection.

"In the absence of funds allocated to research at the beginning of response, NCDC, NIAMET, NUC, TEFFUND came together and formed a collaboration called Nigeria

COVID-19 Research Consortium.

This is the collaboration of the willing that wanted to do research rather than Consortium established by government.

We came together pulled our resources to drive research on COVID-19," he said.

Responding to questions by lawmakers, the Director General of NAFDAC, Mojisola Adeyeye said the Agency had received 20 traditional medicinal applications for COVID-19 treatment, which are being given an extradited review approach.

On efforts by the Agency to tackle COVID-19, Adeyeye said, "NAFDAC is also liaising between the pharmaceutical industry and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to ensure that pharmaceutical industries are strengthened. I am glad to report that about six pharmaceutical companies have gotten funding.

"I am also liaising with TETFUND and for the first time, TETFUND is giving grants to non Academic institutions and NAFDAC is the first to get that.

With that we have fund clinical projects that have been funded and that is going to start very soon.

"To focus on COVID-19, we had to do emergency authorisation of drugs product, medical devices, diagnostics and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). We jumped into this COVID-19 with little or no resources, because six months ago we never thought of wearing PPE and now we have to develop guidance".

Earlier, Chairman of the Adhoc Committee, Hon. Haruna Mshelia called for a multi-sectoral stakeholders engagement by the Federal Ministry Health in the COVID-19 response. ''There's need for concrete research proposals on COVID-19 that would attract sponsorship.

There are certain bodies that are prepared to key in if proper proposals are brought up.

Such organisations include but not limited to Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), World Health Organization (WHO), Bill Gate Foundation, Otedola Foundation, BUA Foundation. If we are able to come up with concrete proposals, these people can come in,” he said.

NDDC donates ventilators, X-ray machines, Other Medical Supplies to Edo Govt

who watched helplessly when the last board chair in cahoots with the two NECA representatives, MD, and officials, looted N48 billion from the Fund and are being tried as of date by the EFCC “NECA leadership should have been more restrained and responsive to the mantra of this administration, like their NLC counterparts, as the NSITF is a Federal Government Parastatal operating within the realm of the Constitution, Public Service rules, and the NSITF Act, which empowers the minister to recommend fit and proper persons to Mr President for appointment for the post of Chairman, Managing Director and the three Executive Directors for the day-to-day management of the agency…

“The president on recommendation of the minister also has powers to discipline,

suspend or even remove totally, depending on the circumstances of each situation.”

He recalled that the breaches in question happened between 2016 and 2019 and were not limited to 2018/2019, as NECA claimed.

Akpan stated that the labour ministry did not intend to go into a “media altercation with a social partner, NECA,” but insisted the association’s director-general should “emulate the NLC who liaised with the ministry to be adequately briefed and were satisfied after the briefing, more so when they had also received brief from their person on the Board.”

He regretted that Olawale, as a representative of NECA on the Board, sat and watched when the suspended MD of NSITF and some members of his executive were squandering the funds in question.

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has donated medical supplies to the Edo State Government to strengthen the state’s response to the spread of coronavirus.

Speaking during the handover of the medical supplies to the government in Benin City, Acting Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, NDDC, Prof. Kemebradikumo Pondei, noted that the donation was to complement the efforts of the nine NDDC state governments in checking the spread of COVID-19.

He noted that the NDDC, in addition to supporting states in containing the spread of COVID-19, has provided funds to women and youth groups as palliatives.

Pondei said the sums for respective states were utilised for the procurement of array of medical equipment such as special diagnostic equipment, critical care equipment including ventilators and consumables as well as Testing and Isolation/ Treatment Centres.

Responding, representative of the Edo State Government and Commissioner for Health, Dr. Patrick Okundia, expressed appreciation to the NDDC. “This is not the first time NDDC and Edo State are doing things together. We are partners in progress on a lot of issues relating to the welfare of Edo people. We also appreciate the fact that since the outbreak of COVID-19, this is the second time they are sending intervention to Edo State,” he said.

According to him, the support

by NDDC would go a long way to assist the state’s response in checking the spread of the virus across the state.

“We have received medical supplies like ventilators, digital mobile X-ray, sanitisers, and hospital beds. They also supplied us with truckloads of palliatives.

We pray this partnership continues,” he added.

NGIGE: BUHARI AUTHORISED SUSPENSION OF NSITF TOP OFFICIALS agencies and ensure stability in the system.

The NSITF management also issued a statement accusing Ngige of acting without the president's authorisation.

“We wish to state that President Muhammadu Buhari has not suspended the management of NSITF and did not make such announcement.

The person mentioned in the media report is not a staff of the president,” NSITF had stated.

But the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, in a statement signed the Deputy Director, Press and Publicity, Charles Akpan, rejected Olawale's claim. The ministry said the removal of the NSITF management followed due process as a parastatal fully owned by the federal government. Akpan insisted that the Minister of Labour and Employment acted in line with the constitution, public service

rules, and NSITF Act. According to the spokesman of the ministry, “NECA does not have the full facts, nor do they know that the Secretary to the Government of the Federal (SGF) conveyed the presidential approval to the Hon. Minister of Labour and Employment for full implementation.”

The NLC president supported the ministry’s stand Friday night while stating the organised labour’s position on the suspension of the NSITF management team. Wabba told THISDAY, “Mr President approved all the measures taken by the minister of labour, which was communicated to him for action by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF).”

The ministry’s spokesman said some of the infractions uncovered at NSITF included the alleged wastage of N3.4 billion on a non-existent

staff training scheme split into about 196 different consultancy contracts to evade the Ministerial Tenders Board and Federal Executive Council approval. He said this involved a non-existent and unexecuted N2.3 billion contract that was documented and paid for, while N1.1 billion was awaiting payment without any job done, all totalling N3.4 billion.

Akpan explained that the NSITF Act empowered the minister to recommend fit and proper persons to Mr. President for appointment to the posts of Chairman, Managing Director, and three Executive Directors to manage the affairs of the agency.

He said the suspension of the management became imperative after preliminary investigation on allegations of corruption against the NSITF top officials established prima facie infractions on the extant

financial regulations and Procurement Act and other acts of gross misconduct.

Akpan also alleged the discovery of breaches in relation to projects for the construction of 14 zonal/regional offices in 14 states “running into billions of naira – a policy issue being done without Board or ministerial knowledge, not to talk of approval. This was done in 2019 by the MD and his three-man Executive. Some of the projects are duplications and, hence, waste of funds, yet you are in the Board, supposedly, supervising!”

He said, “If a minister observes there are financial breaches earlier reported and gross misconduct he does not need to go back to a Board that has been complaining to the same minister.

“We hope that NECA does not expect the minister to fold his hands like his predecessor,

T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R ˾ JULY 5, 2020

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EDITORIAL

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

T HE R EIGN OF I LLEGAL M INERS

Illegal miners pose serious threat to our economy and national security

T

hat the latest audit report of the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) on the country’s solid mineral sector confirmed the prevalence of illegal mining activities is disturbing. Although produced for the 2018 accounting year, the comprehensive audit explained that except for isolated cases of registered cooperative societies operating in accordance with the law, the sector is largely challenged by illegal miners. No fewer than 31 of such miners, including foreigners, were recently arrested at different locations in Osun State. What several of these cases across the country indicate is that Nigeria has now become a hotbed for illegal mining of minerals, with serious consequences for the economy and national security.

According to NEITI, the production data made available by the 69 extractive companies it covered in the audit was largely in respect of industrial minerals such as limestone and granite; leaving the metallic, precious metals and gemstones largely unreported.

Out of these companies, four refused to open their books for audit, suggesting that they may be involved in some improper acts. While we commend the leadership of NEITI for opening the eyes of Nigerians to many of the loopholes being exploited to deny our people the benefits of their natural resources, the authorities will do well to act on the report.

Meanwhile, we must acknowledge some of the reforms initiated by the current administration.

These include improving mobility for field officers and organising artisanal miners into cooperatives, etc. The challenge is how to sustain these efforts and improve on them to significantly reduce the incidence of illegal mining across the country. There should also be more focus on how to properly organise the sector to attract local and foreign investors. This will help to ensure proper value-addition,

rather than just exporting the raw minerals. Experience from the oil and gas sector should be useful here.

N

The spate of illegal mining activities in Zamfara, Kaduna, Katsina, Niger and even in Kogi have already thrown up security challenges, with reported cases of banditry and widespread community unrest

Letters to the Editor

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

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

igeria’s solid minerals sector is essentially private-sector driven. Through a cadasterlike system, the government allocates mineral titles to investors and subsequently provides oversight functions through policy direction and regulations. The country’s law in the sector also specifies who could be in possession of or purchase minerals, and establishes Minerals Buying Centre (MBC) which according to NEITI are currently 103 across the country. But from Osun to Zamfara and elsewhere, illegal mining is now the name of the game though this has a long Pan-African background and Nigeria must learn lessons from other countries.

In the mid-1960s, Senegalese and Malian small-scale miners were arrested on the Congo-Uganda border with coffins accompanied by wailing women.

The coffins were said to be carrying dead bodies for burial among relatives. These 'dead bodies' crossing the border were however wraps containing diamond and other precious metals. In the Central African Republic, Seleka militants were reportedly receiving AK47 guns from Indian traders in exchange for diamonds and uranium dug from locations in which village communities had been slaughtered and dispersed. Similar accusations have been made against Rwandan and Ugandan military officers landing helicopters in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) following their defeat by Zimbabwean, Angolan and Namibian troops defending the independence of post-Laurent Kabila’s DRC. More disturbing is that except for Botswana perhaps, African political and business groups have shown little interests in adding local value to raw materials or minerals excavated from the continent’s earth for domestic and export consumers. Nigeria which is huge in solid minerals deposits has equally seen an influx of questionable interests. The spate of illegal mining activities in Zamfara, Kaduna, Katsina, Niger and even in Kogi have already thrown up security challenges, with reported cases of banditry and widespread community unrest. No reasonable country should allow such brazen challenge of its territorial authorities.

Illegal miners remain potent dangers to our economy and national security. The relevant authorities must move quickly to halt their illicit acts before it is too late.

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

Festus Keyamo And The Lawmakers

I

recall when one of the officers of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), came to our NYSC-CDS, to educate us on the consequences of drug abuse and related things which surround drug usage. He would later ask us to join NDLEA's CDS group. Soon as he was through, he asked us to write our questions on a sheet of paper which most of us did. Some of us asked questions on drug abuse while others asked questions on life after service. "Sir, the NDLEA's CDS group you said we should join, are we going to be employed by NDLEA after our service year?" a

corper asked. Everyone of us applauded.

The officer who was in his NDLEA's red jacket first sipped from the bottled water he held before he answered the question: "You just asked a very good question and I must tell you the truth. Our lawmakers have hijacked the process.

If NDLEA announces that it will employ 5,000 Nigerians, lawmakers will hijack 3,500 slots and leave the remaining 1,500 for commoners who do not have godfathers. That's why all of you cannot be employed...."

So, I wasn't surprised when the meeting between

the Minister of State, Labour and Employment, Festus Keyamo and the Nigerian lawmakers ended in a face-off which made the lawmakers ask Festus Keyamo to take a bow and leave. Keyamo had earlier enlisted the Nigerians he deemed fit across states to be part of the Committees for the Special Public Works Programme – designed to absorb 774,000 unemployed Nigerians. He was asked to brief them on the process, which he did.

Later, they accused him for not privately submitting the programme to them for vetting before taking the step he took. The lawmakers also insisted

that they had to have an input in the process. Festus Keyamo claimed that their requests were unconstitutional.

My questions are: Why did the lawmakers insist that they must have an input in the implementation of the programme? Why did the lawmakers accuse him of not submitting the programme on their table before he went ahead with the process? These questions can be answered in two words – corruption and nepotism. I watched Festus Keyamo in a viral video asking the lawmakers: "How can you expose corruption without cameras?" Why are the lawmakers questioning him over the process if they do not want to manipulate the programme

to suit themselves?

However, Nigerian lawmakers shouldn't forget that the world is watching. Not less than 48 hours the ongoing N-Power recruitment portal was opened, an online news medium, SaharaReporters, gathered that the Ministry of Humanitarians Affairs and Disaster Management had dole out 50,000 slots to Nigerian lawmakers. Unfortunately, this is not good for a country that is pronounced corrupt all over the world. Nigerian lawmakers should focus on their constitutional duties and allow other governmental bodies to discharge theirs without being distracted.

–––Aremu Lukman Umor, Lagos.

T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R Ëž ÍłËœ 2020

12

NEWS Lagos, Abuja, Kano Risk Explosion in COVID-19 Cases as Interstate Travel Resumes ‡ ‡

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Poor public transport infrastructure may trigger case Pandemic cases rise by 264% in May, 144% in June public spaces Findings further showed that frontline cities – Abuja, Abeokuta, Akure, Ibadan, Lagos, Kano, Benin City, Kaduna, Port Harcourt and Katsina, among others, may witness an unprecedented spike in the progression of COVID-19 cases with the resumption of the inter-state travels.

In most of these cities, it was observed, public transport infrastructure that could make social distancing possible was practically non-existent in the case of Abeokuta, Akure, Ibadan and Kano, and largely inadequate with respect to Lagos, Abuja, Benin City and Port Harcourt.

In virtually all inter-state bus stations and motor parks in Abuja, Benin City, and Port-Harcourt, THISDAY observed high human contacts with commuters trooping in from different places to board vehicles to their destinations.

Apart from archaic public transport infrastructure, further observation revealed that there was no strategy in place in most bus stations and motor parks to effectively manage commuters and strictly enforce social distanc-

ing within the facilities.

Findings showed that Utako in Abuja, Waterline Bus Terminal in Port-Harcourt, Dandinshe Bus Station in Kano, Ring Road Bus Terminal, Ilesha Moto Park in Akure and Kuto Moto Park in Abeokuta lacked basic transport infrastructure that could help enforce COVID-19 regulations strictly.

In Lagos State, for instance, THISDAY observed some ultramodern public transport infrastructure, especially bus stations and bus stops in different parts of Africa’s most populous city, some of which were developed under the last administration.

Such public transport facilities that were observed comprise Ikeja Bus Terminal, Ojodu-Berger Bus Terminal, Oshodi Transport Interchange, Race Cross Bus Terminal, Yaba Bus Terminal, Oyingbo Bus Terminal and Maryland Bus Terminal.

Obviously, THISDAY findings showed that the state authorities could effectively enforce social distancing and COVID-19 regulations in all these bus stations due

to facilities already put in place to facilitate hitch-free transit.

With the exception of OjoduBerger Bus Terminal, Oshodi Transport Interchange and Race Cross Bus Terminal, THISDAY observed that other ultramodern bus stations in Lagos had not been fully open for bus operations and services.

At Oshodi Transport Interchange, THISDAY observed strict compliance with the COVID-19 regulations with demarcated spaces for commuters to queue, provision of hand sanitizer, mandatory use of facemasks or nose covers as well as a section curved out for hand washing.

Apart from these inter-state public transport facilities, however, THISDAY observed that nearly all intra-state motor parks in the state lacked basic infrastructure to enforce social distancing and ensure outright observance of COVID-19 regulations.

Ibadan, currently with a population of about 3.552 million, does not have standard bus stations, bus stops and motor parks where social distancing

Progression of COVID-19 Cases in Nigeria, March 18 - June 30 30000

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With the decision of the federal government to lift embargo on interstate transport services on Tuesday, Lagos, Abuja, Kano, Benin City and other major cities across the federation risk an unprecedented increase in the COVID-19 cases within a few weeks, THISDAY inquiries have revealed.

Findings further revealed that such state capital as Abeokuta, Asaba, Kaduna, Ibadan, Port Harcourt and Katsina, among others might also record significant progression in the COVID-19 cases before July 30 due to poor observance of social distancing in bus stops and motor parks nationwide.

Even though most of the commuters always wear facemasks, observation showed that poor infrastructure at bus stations and motor parks largely undermined the regulations mandating all citizens to wash their hands and use hand sanitizer in public places.

These shortcomings were uncovered during an observation of inter-state motor parks and bus stations, which THISDAY conducted between July 1 and 3 after the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19 (PTF) lifted prohibition on the inter-state transport services nationwide.

On March 30, the federal government imposed a two-week lockdown on the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Lagos and Ogun States and extended it by another 14 days at the expiration of the first lockdown on April 13.

In a broadcast on April 27, President Muhammadu Buhari subsequently approved phased easing of the lockdown, which officially commended on May 4 and imposed curfew nationwide between 8:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.

Also, the president imposed a dusk to dawn curfew on the country; banned interstate movements and imposed total lockdown on Kano State due to an unprecedented spike in the

COVID-19 cases and deaths the state recorded.

Since the gradual ease of the lockdown started on May 4, however, analysis of data obtained from the website of the NCDC showed that the COVID-19 cases rose from 2,818 on May 4 when the partial ease of lockdown commenced to 10, 262 on May 31, representing an increase of 264 percent within four weeks.

From 10,599 on June 1 when the second phase of the eased lockdown was announced, NCDC’s data revealed that the COVID cases surged to 25, 872 on June 30 when the PTF lifted prohibition on the inter-state lockdown.

Between June 1 and 30, according to NCDC’s data, the progression of the COVID-19 cases across the federation increased by 144 percent, suggesting that with the resumption of inter-state transport services, the cases of the pandemic might triple or quadruple in the next four weeks.

However, as NCDC’s data showed, the COVID-19 cases were 132 on March 30 when the first lockdown was announced and increased to 1353 on April 27 when the federal government reeled out the guidelines for the phased ease of the lockdown across the federation.

Contingent upon NCDC’s statistics on the pandemic, THISDAY inquiries revealed that precisely before July 31, COVID-19 cases might triple or quadruple in major cities and capitals nationwide due to poor observance of social distancing in bus stops, bus stations and motor parks.

Complicated by the absence of modern bus terminals and the prevalence of poor facilities, THISDAY observed that most public transport facilities could not effectively enforce COVID-19 regulations, requiring the use of hand sanitizers, facemasks and nose covers in

COVID-19 Cases

Gboyega Akinsanmi

could be observed or that could give room for the enforcement of COVID-19 regulations.

THISDAY observation, however, showed that the Oyo State Government had started implementing an intelligent transport system entailing the construction of two ultra-modern bus terminals in Iwo Road, one in Challenge and another bus terminus in Ojoo carefully designed to serve commuters.

With its design, it was observed, the state’s new public transport plan is a miniature of what the last administration implemented in Lagos with the development of strategic public transport infrastructure in Race Cross, Ikeja, Oshodi, Ojota-Berger, Yaba, Maryland and Oyingbo, among others.

Concerned about the progression of COVID-19 cases nationwide since the federal government started the phased ease of the lockdown, a public transport specialist, Mr. Sola Adepoju explained the nexus between the progression of the COVID-19 cases and poor public transport infrastructure.

Perhaps with the exception of Lagos and recent development in Ibadan, Oyo State, Adepoju observed that nearly all capitals in the country lacked public transport facilities that could support the enforcement of COVID-19 regulations and the maintenance of social distancing.

With the archaic public transport infrastructure, he warned that the progression of COVID-19 cases might overwhelm public health facilities in a few weeks with the decision of the federal government to end inter-state lockdown.

He, therefore, urged the governments nationwide to prioritise the development of strategic public transport infrastructure to ensure healthier and safer transportation of commuters and goods, saying there was a strong relationship between public health and public transport infrastructure.

Anti-graft Group Asks EFCC to Prosecute Yari for N900bn Misappropriation Tobi Soniyi The Patriots for the Advancement of Peace and Social Development (PAPS) has asked the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate a former governor of Zamfara State, Alhaji Abdulazeez Yari for alleged misappropriation and misapplication of over N900 billion belonging to the state during his eight-year administration.

The group, in a petition addressed to the EFCC, the Independent Corrupt Practices and other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the Nigerian Intelligence Financial Unit (NFIU) said it would go to court to obtain an order to compel the anti-graft agencies to investigate the former governor if necessary.

The group said in the fight against corruption, there should be no sacred cow, selective justice and favouritism and that Yari being a member of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and close confidant of President Muhammadu Buhari should not be shielded from investigation and prosecution for the looting of Zamfara State.

It added that it was on record that such former governors as Joshua Dariye, Jolly Nyame and just recently Orji Uzor Kalu and other former governors from the opposition parties are either being investigated or prosecuted for corruption.

In the petition dated June 30 and signed by PAPS Chairman, Alhaji Sani Abdulahi Shinkafi, the group alleged that Yari superintended over the most atrocious and highest degree

of primitive looting of the state treasury since the creation of Zamfara State in 1996.

It claimed that the interim reports of the state’s project verification committee, transition committee report, local government project committee report made chilling, startling and significant disclosures to this effect. “During the year 2015 to date the Zamfara State Government has received the sum of N56,024,477,670.01 as intervention funds namely, salaries bailout, Excess Crude Account, Commercial Bank Restructured Loans from Debt Management Office (DMO) and Budget Support facility, all from the federal government.

He alleged that the state government under Yari

“received N10 billion from the Excess Crude Account (ECA) for infrastructural projects across the state at 9 percent per annum with 20 years tenor and the ECA was issued as collateral. “The state government received N17,569,000,000.00 at 9 percent with one year moratorium and for a ten year tenor through the Central Bank of Nigeria and N48,224,609,042.91 as Paris Fund refund. “The state also received N37 billion as refunds for federal roads from the Federal Ministry of Works on the eve of the expiration of the tenure of the Yari administration and the funds cannot be traced by the present administration.�

He also alleged that the N600 billion “received from the Federal Account Allocation Committee

from May 29, 2011 to May 29, 019 were all misappropriated without proper documentation, accountability, over invoicing and siphoning of the said funds.�

He said the Yari administration “left over N57, 996,730,718 as loans from commercial banks.

1019 undocumented vehicles were purchased at the cost of N5, 544,358,300 between 2011 and 2019 through the office of the secretary to the state government which cannot be accounted for.�

He also alleged that contracts were inflated while Yari was in office as governor citing the Yariman Babura Specialist Hospital project and Borehole contracts under the Sustainable Development Goals.

Shinkafi alleged that there was an inflation of the contracts for the rehabilitation of the General Hospital Gusau and for the

rehabilitation of federal, state and local government roads.

He also alleged that the sum of N10 billion obtained from the CBN under the guise of purchasing agro-chemicals and agricultural commodities for boosting agricultural production in Zamfara State was not properly accounted for.

The PAPs Chairman noted that “there is also the issue of the fraudulent payment of N150,000,000.00 to Flamingo Resources as consultancy services to negotiate a loan from the Federal Mortgage Bank for Daza Housing Project.

He also asked the EFCC to investigate how N1,995,000,000.00 from the N2 billion loan from the federal government to Small and Medium Enterprises was spent. The governor has yet to respond to the allegations.

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T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R ˾ JULY 5, 2020

OPINION

THE SHADOW PANDEMIC

Gradually, women and girls are standing up, reporting cases of violence and demanding local solutions, writes Pauline Tallen, Peter Hawkins and Comfort Lamptey

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iolence against women and girls in Nigeria is a pandemic-sized problem.

Millions live in fear of being abused, assaulted or raped.

Frontline heroes like the doctors, lawyers, social workers and counsellors who deal with the daily casualties of this crisis describe the heartbreak of handling cases of women and girls who have been abused or raped. These protectors of women and children’s rights persevere in their efforts, even though they know most cases will not be reported, receive support and get justice.

And the cases we know about are only the small tip of a colossal iceberg.

So many women and girls suffer in silence and shame because they are worried about their family’s reaction and social stigma. Like a woman in Sokoto, who was assaulted by her husband whilst in purdah and denied access to critical support; or a woman in Lagos who was raped and impregnated by her neighbor and forced to leave her home for fear of stigmatization. Countless women and girls who are either ostracized or in community seclusion and at risk of violence still need to be reached.

But we are finally seeing a slow shift in attitudes.

Across Nigeria, women and girls are standing up, reporting their cases, and demanding local solutions to the problems of violence, including rape and sexual exploitation.

Cases like Blessing, who is 13 years old and lives in Abuja. Last year she was raped by her neighbor but kept quiet because he threatened to kill her. When she finally told her parents, they pressed charges and the rapist

was arrested but released on bail. The rapist lives near the family and threatened her mother to drop the case. But her mother refused to settle and is pursuing justice in the courts.

“I want to be a lawyer because I don’t want other girls like me to go through a similar experience,” Blessing told us. “I want to stand up for them, be there for them and fight for them - that’s why I want to be a lawyer.”

Breaking the silence on violence against women and girls has created a momentum and encouraged more families to come forward and report cases of rape and other forms of violence or abuse. This increase in reporting is ringing alarm bells for clear political action. Nigerian communities and leaders are increasingly coming to terms with the scale of the problem and promising support to find solutions.

These are signs of hope. Even within the COVID-19 pandemic, a proactive culture is developing, whereby

Breaking the silence on violence against women and girls has created a momentum and encouraged more families to come forward and report cases of rape and other forms of violence or abuse

community leaders, health and social service providers including the police are working together with unprecedented coordination to implement a zero-tolerance policy for violence against women and girls.

Working together means engaging men and boys to address attitudes that perpetuate violence. Global solidarity campaigns such as HeForShe and #WithHer include men and boys as important allies in the gender equality movement, and in Nigeria, there is a surge of male champions actively and publicly pushing for justice for victims and survivors.

Whilst ending the pandemic of violence against women and girls in Nigeria begins with encouraging more reporting, it is only the first step.

It must also include a comprehensive review of the system from the girl’s and woman’s point of view.

Resources and training are needed to improve services so survivors of violence can get free medical care, legal support and long-term counselling and support.

The government has a critical role to play in leading the way, providing the necessary systems and removing the obstacles to accessing services. But the government alone cannot solve this problem – it is the small but momentous changes at the family and community levels – the changes we are starting to see now - that will drive the real change and finally make Nigeria a place that is safe for women and girls.

There is a long way to go before we realize the dream of a Nigeria where women and girls do not live in fear of being abused or raped. We must not squander this moment to make a lasting transformation – for Blessing and for millions of other girls and women like her.

––Tallen is Minister of Women Affairs, Hawkins, UNICEF Nigeria Representative while Lamptey is UN Women Nigeria Representative.

Political Parties And Survival of Nigeria’s Democracy Ayodele Okunfolami writes that Nigerians need strong and principled political parties that are more intent in governing than in winning elections

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hings are happening very quickly in Edo State as political parties prepare for the gubernatorial elections. Governor Godwin Obaseki’s ties with the All Progressives Congress came to an acrimonious end when he announced his resignation from the party that controls the federal government at a recent visit to Aso Rock. His notice followed the fallout between himself and his erstwhile mentor, Comrade Adams Oshiomole.

Oshiomole, who preceded Obaseki as Edo governor, arrived Osadebe Avenue on the wheels of a campaign to end godfatherism in the state. Ironically, the theme of the feud between the two bordered on the entrenchment of godfatherism.

Godfatherism is an institutional practice where pioneers (godfathers) of movements or organizations maintain an influence on how those bodies are run. On paper, there is nothing wrong with it and I dare say there is nothing wrong with godfatherism.

Practically everything in life, we all need forebearers or referees to get or recommend us to the higher level we aspire to. We need a voice to speak and vouch for us. That is the role godfathers play in politics. Since the godfather is already an established name with wide political spread, he presents a relatively unknown candidate to the electorate. That godson, then rides on the shoulders of his more hawkish mentor to obtain the position.

Had our politics being ideologically driven, the political mentor like the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo and Sardauna, Sir Ahmadu Bello would have a school of understudies that he grooms over time and recommends for different political positions. These protégés end up forming a political bloc headed by their principal. This is how the Bushes and the Kennedys became political establishments in the Republican and the Democratic parties in America. So that if any politician wants to have an easier ride into office, he aligns himself with any of these blocs. That is what godfatherism is all about.

However, recent political developments in Nigeria has seen the ugly side of this practice. What happens here is that the godfather uses his political muscle to impose a candidate on the party.

And because our political parties are spineless without these godfathers, going against the godfather’s choice could make the party lose out completely. It is so bad that party faithfuls remain clueless on who they would throw their weights behind until the godfather has made his pronouncements. This monopolization of politics shouldn’t be.

A preferable option to suite our clime could be the godfather

presenting two or three of his acolytes long before the selection process without preventing others outside his bloc from participating in party primaries. The godfather’s candidates would now play their individual lobbying on why they should be the party’s flagbearer. This way, the glorious godson becomes the party’s candidate not the godfather’s candidate.

Alas, today’s godfather, uses all his political power to impose his hitherto unrecognizable protégé on the party. Often without a strong political base to get himself through, this protégé pretends to remain loyal during the campaign. And because this republic has witnessed godsons turning their backs on their benefactors after getting into office, the godfathers now choose politically weaker candidates to forestall future insurrection.

Unfortunately, Obaseki defecting to an opposition party he is unfamiliar with to fulfill his ambition shows he is choosing to be godson in another umbrella. The same fashion Oshiomole swept the way for him to carry the broom of the APC in 2016, some bigwigs in the PDP with future elections in mind, are granting him unfair waivers to be the party’s standard bearer in September. At the end of the day, the loyalty he didn’t bestow to Oshiomole, he would transfer on those PDP guys that paved the way for him. Loyalty is to persons, individuals, men or egos and not to purposes, ideologies, mandates or the electorate. Sad. Parenthetically, had the PDP done its job as an opposition party for the 12 odd years APC governed Edo, would Obaseki had gotten the political fortitude to use them as a platform of last resort to pursue his ambition?

It is high time our politicians collected their parties from bullies with state resources or money bags with selfish interests. The Republican Party are still struggling to get their party back from the personalization Trump has imposed on it. Just as it is riddling that a technocrat from Lagos, Abuja or abroad will be anointed by the godfather over the grassroots politicians that have laboured for eons, it is also illogical that the politician who decamps on the eve of a primary would be favoured for the ticket others uncompromisingly remained in the opposition for. It is this lack of principles, morality and internal democracy that are the problems with our politics, not godfatherism.

It is the same game playing in Ondo. A candidate would purchase his form to contest and first visit the big man in State House for a photo op. I can bet, as we have seen in Bayelsa and Kogi, after their victories, their first point of call won’t be the voters, but the residence of the “leader of the party”.

And by the way, who is the leader of a political party? Is he the elected chair, a former governor or the most senior political office holder? Is it not absurd that Obaseki, who joined the PDP hours earlier declared himself the leader of the party in the state? Does it mean the Tony Aziegbeni-led Edo PDP exco were toothless all along? Are there no internal resolution mechanisms that political issues are settled in the State House or the home of a founding leader with ghost portfolio as if they are extensions of the political party? Why are national party chairmen of the governing party always suffocated out by ambitious political forces? What roles do boards of trustees play in political crisis or are political parties run by emergency meetings? Shouldn’t party conventions also be times to reaffirm and reassess party ideologies and manifestos instead of only electing officers?

Nigerians are getting disinterested in the series of political dramas that play out season in season out. They want to see strong and principled political parties that are more intent in governing than in winning elections. If our political parties are not healthy, our democracy won’t. The democracies we admire are anchored on strong political parties. Even China with a suspect democracy is getting stronger politically, militarily, economically and technologically because the Communist Party of China is getting stronger.

The Nigerian political class should stop taking the masses for granted. Once a pupil loses faith in his teacher, he loses faith in the subject, then loses faith in the school and ends up losing faith in education all together. Also, when the ardent loses faith in his cleric, he loses faith in the temple and ends up losing faith in religion all together. The plebs too are watching and impatiently waiting for redemption. They have gradually lost faith in politicians, in political parties, in democracy and dangerously, they are fast losing faith in the nation. Voter turnout is getting lower by the election, they don’t pay their taxes anymore neither do they obey the laws of the land. This is unnerving.

Our political parties must put their act together to enshrine party discipline, internal democracy and ensure the elected on their platforms follow through party manifestoes. That was how Progressive Awo and Conservative Sarduana led their respective parties without compromising on the development that made the first republic remain a reference.

Remember, the Soviet Union collapsed after the Communist Party had. PDP and APC should please be guided.

–– Okunfolami wrote from Festac, Lagos.

T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R ˾ JULY 5, 2020

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LETTERS

THE CONTROVERSY OVER HYDROXYCHLOROQUINE

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n May 2020 National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) said that it would be continuing its research into the effectiveness of hydroxychloroquine as a treatment protocol for COVID-19 even when some journals had published some reports that caused quite a stir in the pharmaceutical industry.

The medical Journal Lancet in an observational study claimed that seriously ill COVID-19 patients who were treated with hydroxychloroquine were more likely to die or develop dangerous irregular heart rhythms.

This report was subsequently proved to be faulty.

The World Health Organisation and many health institutions stopped usage of the drug due to the erroneous and faulty study published in the British Medical Journal -The Lancet, May 22nd.

However with the new Henry Ford System Study which shows that hydroxychloroquine helps to lower the death rate

Mojisola Adeyeye, NAFDAC Director General of COVID-19 patients significantly there’s an overwhelming need to refocus attention on this drug as an effective remedy for the treatment of the novel virus.

The study analysed 2,541 patients hospitalised among the systems six hospitals between March 10 and May 2 and found that 13% of those treated

with the drug died and 26% of those who did not receive the drug died. Among all the patients that were used in the study, there was an overall in-hospital mortality rate of 18% and many who died had underlying conditions that put them at greater risk, according to the new report from Henry Ford Health

System.

Since Donald Trump recommended this drug, it has passed from one controversy to the other as people wondered why this drug that has been around for the past 65 years and have been used to treat millions of people safely will be a subject of these controversies.

Other than being a cheap treatment solution, the effectiveness of the drug on patients has been attested to by several physicians in different and varying jurisdictions around the world.

From the testimony of doctors in Nigeria and around the world, the drug is most effective when used early in the illness, it has been proven to be a real game changer in the management of COVID-19. Despite the controversies in some jurisdictions that suddenly changed the status of the drug from over-the-counter to a drug requiring a prescription, its success in managing COVID-19 has never been in doubt if safely used. What we will want to see is a research that monitors the success

Abiola Ajimobi Did His Bit

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he eternal words of English playwright, William Shakespeare ring true of the late Senator Isiaka Abiola Ajimobi. ‘Some are born great, others achieve greatness while the rest have greatness thrust upon them.’ Ajimobi was the epitome of the second type of greatness as he wasn’t born with a silver spoon in his mouth.

It was the same Shakespeare who said that ‘When beggars die no comets are seen but the Heavens themselves blaze forth at the death of Princes.’ Ajimobi’s death was one of the biggest highlights of 2020.

The corona virus pandemic has overtaken the news and airwaves especially since the lockdown in March with many businesses still shut down till now.

Ajimobi’s death is one of those grand news stories which aims at diverting the minds of Nigerians from the ailment that has claimed the lives of the high and mighty including Ajimobi himself as he was said to have succumbed to the cold hands of deaths through a Covid-19 related complications.

Ajimobi has his formative years in the ancient city of Ibadan before he sojourned to the United States of America for the proverbial Golden Fleece.

While in Uncle Sam as

the US is also fondly called, he had to pull himself by the bootstraps to face the grinding poverty that was the lot of most black students by becoming a mortuary attendant.

He excelled in his studies and resisted the temptation to remain in the US on economic exile by returning back to his motherland to diligently serve her.

His triumphal entry back to the country coincided with when the nation was at the peak of the oil boom, when former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon made a famous statement that there was ‘much money without knowing how to spend it.’ He joined the then government-owned National Oil and rose through the ranks to become its Managing Director.

As a corporate guru and boardroom impresario, he dined and wined with the high and mighty and his views were well sought after by the financial media.

After the sale of National Oil to Dr. Mike Adenuga in a privatization round, he invariably became redundant.

Rather than go into private business as was the path that was the norm for someone of his caliber, he decided to do something totally differently by heeding the call to public service.

In 2003, he got elected into the Nigerian Senate.

As a member of the red chamber and the nation’s highest lawmaking body, he contributed his quota to his fatherland by sponsoring some bills especially with regard to the development of the oil and gas sector which was his previous forte.

In 2007, he went into political limbo as he lost his re-election bid to represent Oyo South in the Red Chamber.

‘Winners never quit and quitters never win’ seemed to be his mantra as he bounced back into political reckoning with his election as the Governor of Oyo State in 2011.

His legacy as governor is mixed. On the one hand, some of his diehard fans opine that he was a stellar performer who broke the jinx of being elected for two terms – something that even the legendary late Chief Bola Ige couldn’t do in 1983 when he surprisingly lost to Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo.

His critics contended that his administrative style brought pains to the people of Oyo state. They pointed out to his humiliation of the Olubadan of Ibadan by attempting to elevate some High Chiefs to beaded traditional rulers, the demolition of the studio of popular artiste, Yinka Ayefele, his haughtiness when addressing the students

of the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) when he referred to himself as the ‘constituted authority’ whom the students had no right to disrespect.

His critics contended that his unpopularity cost him the Oyo South Senatorial seat when he attempted to return to the Senate and the All Progressives Congress (APC) losing to the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

He subsequently became the Deputy National Chairman South of the APC and was appointed the Party Chairman after the judicial ouster of Comrade Adams Oshiomhole. His ill-health prevented him from physically taking over the highly esteemed office.

From conquering both the private and public sectors, one can say that indeed Ajimobi came, saw and conquered as he bestrode both sectors like a Colossus with the swagger of a General in the days of the Roman Empire of yore.

Death – the only debt no mortal can escape will come when it will come but the most important thing is to leave legacies for the incoming generation to reflect on so that your stay can be aptly said to be ‘The celebration of life.’

––Tony Ademiluyi, Lagos.

rate even amongst outpatients and how an early use of this drug with the right amount of doses can be effective as well.

With 10,845,275 confirmed COVID-19 cases as at the 3rd of July, 2020 the advice by the FDA and CDC that hydroxychloroquine should be used for hospitalised patients won’t be strategic in the management of the virus because more often than not it will be too late to see the effectiveness of the drug.

I believe some of these restraints and issues are as a result of models rather than human data like the type from Henry Ford Health System.

The mixed messaging from the World Health Organisation is also another controversy that this drug has had to battle in the treatment of COVID-19. WHO had halted hydroxychloroquine trials twice, the first time was on account of the fraudulent Lancet Study on the 25th of May and the second time was on the 17th of June based on recovery trials, where highly toxic doses of the drug were used.

Beyond the controversies the drug still stands out as a successful treatment protocol from hospitals around the world. Even the revered Dr Anthony Fauci, Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases has also contributed to controversies with respect to the use

of hydroxychloroquine in treating COVID-19. At some point he insisted the drug cannot be used without strong evidence but in all the drug battles on as a shining solution in the treatment and management of COVID-19.

Here in Nigeria results from the various isolation centres and interview of recovered patients is an eloquent testimony that this drug is vital in the treatment of COVID-19 and in the absence of a vaccine, policymakers should give this drug a chance.

A study sponsored

by LiveWell Initiative in collaboration with various stakeholders in the healthcare value chain comprising Physicians, Pharmacists, Researchers and Clinicians indicated that chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine as prophylaxis for COVID-19 showed a measure of encouraging success.

The CEO of LWI, Bisi Bright said “our LWI study protocol recommends quinine for all COVID-19 inpatients (oral for regular inpatients and intravenous for ICU patients).’’

Beyond all the controversies what can’t be denied is the results by frontline medical officers around the world. The time to move away from the needless controversies is now.

––Vivian O. Ibeh (FCPharm ), pamlaviv6@gmail.com.

University Education And COVID-19

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hereas the dire outlook of the COVID-19 pandemic should be treated as an impending national emergency knowing that Nigeria is lagging in the international efforts to develop an effective vaccine against this infection, and knowing also that the awuf route of eventual cheap vaccine importation to be subsidised by the World Health Organisation (WHO) is all but shut, the federal government of Nigeria considers it at the present time a “smart move” to rubbish the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) by “virtaulising” university education with inducements, threats, and coercion to striking lecturers.

ASUU’s demand are basically “contravirtualisation:” adequate classrooms, equipped laboratory spaces, enough and airy office spaces for university instructors, vistas for practical demonstrations for students, etc. All these require

funding injection into the university system at a cost that would be relatively miniscule in relation to the national budget. But, no, the government is having none of it.

Why is this so? Now, the federal government thinks the best way to circumvent ASUU’s demands is to inaugurate “online teaching” in full gear and throttle, recruit compliant hands through the flawed IPPIS platform, and bamboozle the general public that “all is well” with tertiary education.

As I recall, Mr. Muhammadu Buhari, Nigeria’s president, has sent four of his brood to universities in England to complete their tertiary education since he was sworn in as the head honcho to continue to fix all sectors of our national life, including tertiary education. Talk of a “masses-loving man of spartan disposition.”

––Sunday Adole Jonah, Department of Physics, Federal University of Technology, Minna, Niger State.

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THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ ͽ˜ 2020

BUSINESS

Editor: Kunle Aderinokun 08033204315, 08111813084 Email:kunle.aderinoku@thisdaylive.com

Indisputable Place of Metering in Nigeria’s Power Stability One of the most fundamental challenges to effective access to electricity in Nigeria is the absence of an overarching metering system that ensures customers pay fair prices for electricity they consume. It is believed that the country needs over $1 billion to meet its electricity metering gap. What is clear, however, is that the regulators, the government and the DisCos are unwilling to make necessary investments to ensure the take-off of a Nigerian metering manufacturing industry. Nosa James-Igbinadolor reports

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n 2019, distribution companies (DisCos) in Nigeria recorded an eight per cent growth in their revenue collection, grossing a total N473 billion that year from N438 billion in 2018. The revenue growth, is certainly driven less by the availability of increased generation and transmission and more to the fact that “the number of registered end-users in the Nigerian electricity supply industry keeps increasing, currently at a rate of about 75,000 new customers per month,” according to the Association of Nigerian Electricity Distributors (ANED).

What this simply means, is that as more than 750,000 new consumers of electricity register into the national electricity distribution network, they will have to share the same amount of electricity in the national grid with old subscribers thus further reducing the quality and quantity of electricity available to all.

The report by ANED showed that much was not recorded in the energy transferred by the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN). “In the last minor review of December to January, NERC dropped its previous projection for 2020 from 123,000 megawatt-hour per day down to 96,000 MWh/day (an almost 30 per cent downward review), which is the main reason for increasing the forecasted tariff shortfall for 2020 to N534 billion (N426 billion compared to 2019 June’s minor review).

“The aggregate technical, commercial and collection loss (moving average) keeps improving and it is now at 44.6 per cent, although it is still far from Ikeja Electric’s new record (22 per cent in December 2019).

“Nevertheless, a few Discos are showing symptoms of fatigue in their ATC&C loss reductions, with a Disco deteriorating by a moving average of 4.7 points in 2019. Hopefully, this situation will revert soon and will not follow the path of Yola Electricity Distribution Company.”

Price Waterhouse Coopers (PwC), in a recent report on Bridging the Metering Gap, noted that, “Unbundling and transfer of the successor companies to private entities has, to date failed to deliver the expected benefits. This has been largely attributed to the fact that upon takeover, the DisCos assumed responsibilities and challenges beyond the scale and scope originally envisaged. These include obsolete network infrastructure, non-functioning metering systems, non-cost reflective tariffs, high incidence of electricity theft and equipment vandalism, amongst

A typical prepaid meter

other pertinent issues. Consequently, the DisCos have been unable to finance and roll out the desperately required strategic initiatives to improve cash flow and service delivery in order to achieve the ultimate goal of ATC&C loss reduction (which is currently at about 45per cent)”.

Thus, as more Nigerians migrate into the electricity network of the varied DisCos, the distribution companies have been pushing for a cost reflective tariff that is fair and sufficient to finance their opera-

tions while still making reasonable profits from running efficient operations.

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) developed a methodology to be used via a Tariff Order known as the Multi-Year Tariff Order (MYTO) in accordance with Section 32 of the Electric Power Sector Reforms Act 2015 (“EPSRA”). MYTO is required to be cost-reflective, meaning, expected to cover costs arising through all the power value chain from generation transmission and

through to distribution.

PwC in its report argued that, “metering effectively represents the foundation for sustainable revenue generation and commercial viability of the electricity sector. With electricity as the product offering, DisCos must accurately account for inflows of electricity into their network and outflows of electricity delivered to customers. This enables them provide an assurance of fair billing and payments to and from suppliers and customers alike. The implication is that

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THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ ͽ˜ 2020

BUSINESS/ECONOMY Indisputable Place of Metering in Nigeria’s Power Stability metering must be a top priority for DisCos and the entire power sector value chain whose respective costs of service are all embedded in the final utility bill borne by the customer. Essentially, the power sector value chain is wholly dependent on the DisCos to provide last mile services to the customer and perform the role of revenue collections”.

On 31 March 2020, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) issued an Order concerning the proposed tariff increase which was to be implemented from July 1, 2020. The Order recognised the application by power distribution companies (DisCos) for an upward review of end-user tariffs, as well as the application by the Transmission Company of Nigeria Plc (TCN) for an upward review of the rates payable to the Power Generation Companies (GenCos) that provide the Ancillary Service of Spinning Reserve.

The order recognised the repeal of the Regulation on Estimated Billing Methodology of 2012 and capping the energy billed for unmetered consumers in order to spur an increase in metering by the DisCos and to the curb the practice of estimated billing.

The planned electricity tariff hike scheduled for July 1 has, however, been postponed until the first quarter of 2021, engineering a crisis of confidence between the Nigerian government and the distribution companies.

The attempted tariff hike has been condemned by many Nigerians who demand that the abysmal electricity situation should get better first before pursuing any tariff escalation. ANED and many stakeholders in the sector, however, posit that the electricity situation is unlikely get better unless consumers pay appropriate prices for electricity and allow investors to make enough money to reinvest in their infrastructure.

According to the chief executive officer of a Lagos-based energy company with interests in the electricity distribution segment, “The power sector in Nigeria will never see significant progress until we have a tariff regime that allows investors to earn a return on their investment. The current tariffs are less that what it costs to generate transmit and distribute power.

Why would a disco owned by private investors facilitate or invest further in a business that is structured to make them lose money?

“Currently for a disco, the more residential customers you meter the larger a loss you realize because discos for their survival have to over-bill their customers to make up for some of the revenue lost from non-implementation of the MYTO increases. Furthermore, NERC as a regulator has failed to implement the reviews which Disco owners relied on in making their investment decision, so cannot justifiably hold Discos accountable”.

The Chief Executive Officer of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), Babatunde Irukera, like most Nigerians, is however dismissive of the viewpoints of the proponents of immediate application of cost reflective tariff.

Speaking during a public hearing on extraordinary tariff review application organised by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) in Lagos in March, the FCCPC boss asserted: “If you are going to promote efficiency, the only way to promote it certainly cannot be by increasing tariffs.

There is absolutely no question

Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman

about the fact that increasing tariffs will not in itself necessarily promote efficiencies.

“So long as you have fewer people paying for what most use, you will not find a cost-reflective tariff. The answer cannot be burdening those few (who pay their bills) with more. What about metering? There is still a vast majority of bills that are paid today by estimation; 55 per cent of consumers are still unmetered.”

Irukera argued that the tariff shouldn’t be increased as the majority of homes in Nigeria remain unmetered. He explained that every time DisCos record a revenue shortfall, unmetered customers would be the ones to pay for it. He further revealed that the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) was promised by the DisCos in 2015 that they would meter more aggressively but that hasn’t been the case, as the metering gap still exists.

“They said that over the next three years, they would meter approximately 4.5 million customers.

And that gave us an annual target of about 1.6 million meters.

“How can we even find a costreflective tariff when more than half of your collection is based on estimation or assumption? Every time there is a revenue shortfall, those who are not metered would pay for it. And that is why estimated billing has now become another word for arbitrary billing,” Irukera said during the public hearing.

With 59.4 per cent of the endusers unmetered, the DisCos grumble that the delays/barriers in the implementation of the Meter Asset Provider Regulation were expanding the metering gap.

In 2018, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, introduced the Meter Assets Providers( MAP) scheme with the aim of fast-tracking the rollout of meters through the engagement of thirdparty investors, called meter asset providers, MAPs, for the financing, procurement, supply, installation and maintenance of electricity

Executive Director, Research and Advocacy, ANED, Sunday-Oduntan

meters.

The programme has moved at an arithmetic speed not proportional to the geometric growth in demand for electricity. The reasons include, the challenge of an approved meter service charge rate of 21 percent which operators posit, is not market driven and thus commercially challenging for them. In addition, they point out the challenge of customers making payment without recourse to the MAP process, as well as the 10 days’ installation turnaround time.

An industry player who craved anonymity posits that, the present MAP regulation as defined in the contents signed by the then Acting Chairman of NERC never had the interest and welfare of the customer at heart.

“It is simply how much money is to be shared by all. That was why it was very easy for the MAPs and DISCOs to convince NERC in effecting a price increase in meters from 1st June 2020. The first sign of the failure of MAP will be in the type of companies selected by the DISCOs. The MAP Regulation entails all interested companies to get a ‘No Objection Certificate’ from NERC and now go back to the DISCOs to apply to become MAPs under them.

“The key questions are; based on the price of each meter, single or three phase, what is the share accruing to the DISCO and what is left for the MAP, who are expected to pay installers who will be engaged to carry out ‘last mile’ services of actually installing the meters in the customers’ premises?

“How many of the MAPs are actually manufacturers of meters?

A substantial number of the MAPs approved by the NERC are simply importers of meters. They do not even assemble the meters locally.

“Why has NERC not provided any revenue protection to licensed Installers who got their licenses from it? A lot of the Installation companies working under the MAPs are seriously underpaid for

the services they provide because the industry regulator has left them to the whims and caprices of the MAPs and DISCOs”.

To solve the meter problem in Nigeria, the federal government and NERC must accelerate efforts to amend some sections of the EPSR Act 2005. Attempts to amend these sections in the past have always been stymied “because the vested interests in this sector remain very powerful and are always prepared to use all means to protect their interests,” the industry source said.

The major amendment should be focused on the repeal of Section 67, subsection 1B stated above. There is an urgent need to disengage the DISCOs from the task of Metering and Revenue Collection in the Sector.

A new class of license holders should be created by bringing in renowned Meter Manufacturers like Landis+Gyr (annual manufacturing capacity of 11.5 million meters) and EDMI (annual manufacturing capacity of 10 million meters), who can easily set up massive assembly plants and create even more employment opportunities in the sector. Most of the present players who claim to be meter manufacturers in Nigeria, according to industry watchers are simply quacks and at best importers “looking for the opportunity to access cheap government funds”.

The only company that actually manufactures meters amongst the present MAPs is a South African based company working with one of the Lagos based DISCOs. When renowned meter manufacturers with very good track records are encouraged by the regulators and operators to come into the country, they can quickly deploy huge numbers of meters, allow customers pay in instalments, collect the whole revenue for the sector and remit to NBET and ensure that the technology in Advance Metering Infrastructure (AMI) is always upgraded.

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THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ ͽ˜ 2020

BUSINESS /MONEY

Maintaining Downward Streak, FMDQ Turnover Dropped by N5tn in May As the global financial markets continue to bow to the pressure of the novel Coronavirus pandemic, otherwise called COVID-19, Nigeria’s FMDQ market, where investors trade daily in fixed income and currency (FIC), is not exempted from the crisis as turnover in May dropped by N5trillion. Bamidele Famoofo reports

T

urnover in the FMDQ market platform witnessed a drop of about N5.0trillion in May with turnover declined by 29.34 per cent from N16.7trillion in April to about N11.8trillion.

Transactions in treasury bills and foreign exchange derivates were more impacted compared with other segments of the ‘FIC’ market in the review period.

Trading in treasury bills dropped

by N4.4trillion or 133 per cent from about N7.7trillion in April to about N3.3 trillion in May. Investors (mostly banks) also traded less in foreign exchange derivates as turnover in that segment dropped by 243 percent from N3.17trillion to N1.87trillion in May. Transaction in foreign exchange (forex) also recorded a decline albeit marginally in the review period with turnover dropping from N1.21trillion in April to N1.07trillion, representing a decline of 11.6 percent.

There was drop in turnover across board in the market in May with an exception of repurchase agreement/buy-backs and unsecured placements/takings categories.

The former recorded an increase to the tune of 26 percent to about N4.0trillion from N2.97trillion while the latter grew by 324 percent from N51.1billion to N218.24billion in the preceding month.

It should however be noted that transactions in the month of May was done only in 18 days as opposed to 22 in April.

Review Meanwhile, turnover in the Fixed Income and Currency (FIC) markets for the month ended April 30, 2020 was N16.70trillion, representing a month-on-month (MoM) decrease of 34.92 percent (N8.96trillion) from the turnover recorded in March 2020 (N25.66trillion), whilst recording a YoY2 increase of 2.02 percent (N0.33 trillion) from the turnover recorded in April 2019 (N16.37 trillion).

Foreign Exchange (FX) and OMO bills remained the most actively traded products, jointly accounting for 72.10 percent of the total FIC market turnover recorded in April 2020. Total FX market turnover in April 2020 was $11.36bn (N4.38 trillion), representing a MoM decrease of 60.73 percent ($17.57billion) from the turnover recorded in March 2020 ($28.92billion; N10.73 trillion).

The FMDQ said the performances in April was driven mainly by the decline in economic activities and foreign capital inflows due to the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) pandemic, resulting in a decrease in FX supply, exacerbated by the temporary cessation of the periodic FX supply by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) through its intervention sales in April 2020.

Bola Onadele.Koko, CEO of FMDQ OTC

Analysis of FX market turnover by trade type in the month indicated that all categories recorded a MoM decrease in April 2020 as it was in May. The Member-Client category accounted for 46.16 percent ($8.11billion) of the total MoM decrease in FX turnover in April 2020, representing the highest decrease across all trade categories. Additionally, analysis of FX market turnover by product type indicated that FX Spot turnover and FX Derivatives turnover recorded MoM decreases of 79.76 percent ($11.12billion) and 43.03 per cent ($6.45billion) respectively in April 2020. In the OTC FX Futures market, the near month contract (NGUS APR 29 2020) with an outstanding notional amount of $1.52bn matured and was settled, whilst a new far month (60-month) contract, NGUS APR 30 2025 was introduced at a contract rate of $/N413.36. The total notional amount of open OTC FX Futures contracts as at April 30, 2020 stood at c.$15.00billion, representing a 3.23% ($0.47billion) increase on the value of open contracts as at March 31, 2020 (c.$14.53billion), while the total notional amount of OTC FX Futures contracts traded to-date stood at $45.35billion as at April 30, 2020.

The CBN Official Spot US$/N exchange rate remained flat at $/ N361.00, as at April 30, 2020 com-

pared to the rate as at March 31, 2020, while the Nigerian Naira depreciated against the US Dollar at the Investors’ and Exporters’ (I&E) FX Window by $/N1.75 ($/N385.55 as at March 31, 2020) to close at $/N387.30 in April 2020. In the parallel market, the Nigerian Naira depreciated by $/ N35.00 to close at $/N450.00 (March 31, 2020 - $/N415.00), increasing the spread between exchange rates in the I&E FX window and the parallel market by 112.90 per cent (N33.25) to N62.70 from the spread recorded in March 2020 Fixed Income Market (T.bills , OMO bills and FGN Bonds).

In the primary market, average discount rates on the 91-day, 182-day and 364-day T.bills declined further in April 2020 to 1.99 percent, 2.81 per cent and 4.05 percent from 2.40 per cent, 3.59 percent and 4.95 per cent recorded in March 2020 respectively.

Similarly, average marginal rates for the 5-year, 15 year and 30-year FGN Bonds decreased to 9.00 percent, 12.00 per cent and 12.50 per cent from 10.00 per cent, 12.50 per cent and 12.98 per cent respectively recorded in March 2020, as FGN Bonds were oversubscribed by an average of 459.45 percent at the April 2020 FGN Bond auction. As at April 30, 2020, total T.bills outstanding value remained flat at N2.65trillion; OMO bills outstanding recorded

a MoM decrease of 4.79 percent (N0.50trillion) to N9.94trillion, while the total FGN Bonds outstanding value also recorded a MoM increase of 1.80 per cent (N0.17trillion) to N9.64trillion from N9.47trillion as at March 31, 2020. Liquidity in the secondary market for T.bills declined further in April 2020 as trading intensity fell to 0.01 from 0.08 in March 2020, with T.bills turnover decreasing MoM by 85.00 per cent (N0.17trillion) to N0.03trillion due to investors holding their T.bills investments to maturity. Trading intensity for OMO bills decreased marginally to 0.75 in April 2020 from 0.76 in March 2020, the first (1st) MoM decrease in 2020 due to the MoM decrease in OMO bills turnover by 5.54 percent (N0.45trillion).

Trading intensity for FGN Bonds also decreased MoM to 0.16 in April 2020 from 0.26, as FGN Bonds turnover also decreased MoM by 34.85 per cent (N0.84trillion) to N1.57trillion, all as a result of lower activity due to the COVID-19 pandemic and its associated impact on financial markets globally. However, trading intensity for bills (T.bills and OMO bills combined) and FGN Bonds increased YoY to 1.20 and 0.16 respectively in April 2020, compared to 0.30 and 0.08 recorded in April 2019.

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THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ ͽ˜ 2020

BUSINESS/ENERGY

Avoiding Landmines and Pitfalls in 2020 Marginal Fields Round The notorious track record of favouring certain section of the country in appointments in oil and gas sector by President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration has fueled concerns that the 2020 marginal oilfields bid round may lack transparency, reports Ejiofor Alike Monitoring Board (NCDMB), are from a particular part of Nigeria.

These agencies include: Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR), Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency (PPPRA), Petroleum Equalisation Fund (PEF) and the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF).

NNPC is headed by Mallam Mele Kyari; DPR, Mr. Sarki Auwalu; PPPRA, Mr. Abdulkadir Saidu Umar; PEF, Alhaji Ahmed Bobboi, and PTDF, Dr. Bello Aliyu Gusau With this dominance of one part of the country in the oil and gas, investors are concerned that most of the beneficiaries of the marginal fields bid round may potentially come from this section of the country.

Though former President Olusegun Obasanjo had initiated efforts to enthrone open, transparent and competitive bid rounds in the award of oil blocks, the Petroleum Act still empowers the Minister of Petroleum Resources to award oil acreages on a discretionary basis, a process that was frequently abused by past military administrations.

President Muhammadu Buhari is the substantive Minister of Petroleum Resources and given the lopsided nature of his appointments, some investors told THISDAY that it is doubtful if he will resist this temptation.

T

o help Nigerian companies develop capacity and capability in the upstream sector of the oil and gas industry, and at the same time boost the country’s crude oil production, the federal government came up with the idea of the award of marginal fields to Nigerian independent companies in the late 1990s.

The award of these marginal assets to the relatively small indigenous players became necessary after the international oil companies (IOCs) had abandoned significant acreages unappraised and left others to lie fallow for many years even after oil discoveries.

This apparent lack of interest by the IOCs stemmed from the fact that these fields were not commercially viable for the oil majors to deploy their expensive human assets and technologies.

The first marginal field to be awarded in the country was the Ogbelle field allocated to the Niger Delta Petroleum Resources Limited in 1999 to promote indigenous participation in the industry.

Following the enactment of the Petroleum (Amendment) Decree No. 23 of 1996 to provide the legal framework for the award of the oil acreages deemed marginal by the IOCs, the guidelines for farming them out, as well as the operation of the fields were developed in 2001 and 2003.

This was followed by the award of additional 24 marginal fields to 31 companies.

The 24 fields and the 31 beneficiary companies included Platform Petroleum, which was awarded the Asuokpu/Umutu field in OML 38; Prime Energy and Sufolk Petroleum, which were awarded the Asaramatoru field in OML 11; Bayelsa Oil (Atala field in OML 46); Excel E&P (Eremor field in OML 46); Walter Smith Petroman and Morris Petroleum (Ibigwe Field in OML 16); Independent Energy (Ofa field in OML 30); Millennium Oil (Oza field in OML 11); and Network E&P (Qua Ibo field in OML 13).

Others were Universal Energy (Stubb Creek field in OML 14); Associated Oil and Gas and Dansaki Petroleum (Tom Shot Bank field in OML 14); Sahara Energy and Africa Oil and Gas (Tsekelewu field in OML 40); Frontier Oil (Uquo marginal gas field in OML 13); Guarantee Oil and Owena Oil (Ororo field in OML 95); Sogenal Oil (Akepo field in OML 90); Bicta Energy System (Ogedeh field in OML 90); Britania-U (Ajapa field in OML 90); and Eurafic Energy (Dawes Island field in OML 54).

The rest included Del-Sigma Limited (Ke field in OML 54); Goland Petroleum (Oriri field in OML 88); Movido E&P (Ekeh field in OML 88); Midwestern Oil and Gas and Suntrust (Umusadege field in OML 56); Pillar Oil (Obodugwa/Obodeti field in OML 56); Energia Limited and Oando (Umusati/ Igbuku field in OML 56); and Chorus Energy (Amoji/Matsogo/Igbolo field in OML 56).

However, the Okwok and Ebok marginal fields were awarded in 2006 and 2007, respectively, to Oriental Energy to compensate the company for losing part of OML 115 to Equatorial Guinea, following a boundary adjustment exercise between Nigeria and Equatorial Guinea.

Again, in 2010, Otakikpo and Ubima fields were also awarded to Green Energy Limited and Allgrace Energy Limited, respectively, to conclude a protracted award process that commenced in 2004.

But as at the last count, only nine fields

Timipre Sylva

were producing hydrocarbons out of the 30 marginal fields awarded from 1999 to date, while 21 were at different stages of development.

The companies producing from the nine oil acreages were Platform Petroleum; Walter Smith Petroman and Morris Petroleum; Frontier Oil Limited; Britania-U, Midwestern Oil and Gas and Suntrust; Pillar Oil, Energia Limited and Oando; Oriental Energy, and Niger Delta Petroleum Resources Limited.

One of the major reasons why the majority of the companies could not quickly bring their assets on stream was due to what the Chief Executive Officer of Seplat Petroleum Development Company Plc, Mr. Austin Avuru had described as a “marriage of strange bedfellows.”

Avuru was obviously referring to how some companies without background knowledge of one another, came together overnight to form partnerships and consortia just to clinch the assets that were up for grabs.

It was gathered that after being awarded the fields, these “strange bedfellows” engaged in protracted dispute instead of concentrating on putting the fields into production.

Indeed, only Avuru’s Platform Petroleum and few others developed their assets before Avuru moved ahead to with other investors to form Seplat, acquired larger acreages and other plum oil and gas assets from the IOCs during their divestment programme.

Apart from the issue of “marriage of

strange bedfellows”, majority of the other companies that were awarded the marginal assets lacked the financial and technical knowhow to develop their assets.

2020 Marginal Fields Round While transparency was not an issue in the previous bid rounds as the exercises were transparent and competitive, there are strong concerns about the transparency and credibility of the 2020 marginal fields’ bid round process also being handled by the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR).

Under this 2020 exercise, the federal government is targeting to raise over $500 million in terms of signature bonuses from the 57 fields, which will be auctioned.

The entire process started from June 1, with the official announcement, to August 9, when payment of application, bid processing fee and submission of technical commercial bid will take place.

However, investors are worried that given the notorious antecedent of the present administration to favour certain section of the country in appointments, the marginal fields’ award process may be skewed to give undue advantage to investors from the privileged part of the country.

Some of the investors who spoke to THISDAY hinged their fears on the fact that the heads of all the agencies under the Ministry of Petroleum Resources, and other oil and gas-related agencies, except perhaps, the Nigerian Contempt Development and

So in order to give potential investors assurances and guarantees on the transparency of the exercise, the DPR must show that those who are eventually selected have the cash, track record, experience and technical capacity to do business in the oil and gas sector.

However, the federal government should consider setting aside some of the oil blocks for discretionary award to firms owned by Niger Delta indigenes, in order to sustain the prevalent peace in the oil-rich region and give its citizens a sense of ownership in Nigeria’s oil wealth.

But investors must also know in clear terms, the pre-qualification criteria and how they will be weighted in selecting those that will participate at the application stage.

Industry players are also concerned whether the process is being independently handled by the DPR devoid of any political manipulations.

Political interference was also listed as one of the factors that made investors to abandon 15 fields out of the 30 that were awarded in the past.

DPR must demonstrate commitment to avoid pitfalls and landmines in this current exercise.

Investors are demanding that only companies with the capacity and financial reach are pre-qualified.

The oil and gas industry players argued that if this pre-qualification criteria is not strictly adhered to, it will open the door to what they called a political crony system and insider dealing that had plagued the previous award system.

According to them, these assets need to be put on production swiftly to earn the country the accompanying royalties and taxes, and also help to ensure that the government also meets with its objective of achieving a production target of 3 million barrels of crude oil per day by 2023.

To engender investor confidence in the exercise, the players also seek the involvement of civil society organisations, and independent agencies like the Nigeria Extractive Industry Transparency Initiative (NEITI).

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THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ ͽ˜ 2020

BUSINESS/ENERGY

Examining the Power Play in NBET Emmanuel Addeh writes that despite being a little-known government agency in the power sector, there are many vested interests battling for the soul of the Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading

I

n recent times, not many agencies of government have been riddled with so much hubbub as the Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading (NBET) PLC , which essentially has become some sort of chaotic din in the last few years.

From one controversy to the other, one court case to another, a threat here from a disgruntled party and yet a reprisal from another. From outright sackings and reversals to altercations with top staff of the company, the power play in the agency appears to have gone messy.

The entire spectrum of government, including the presidency, represented by highly placed Aso Rock officials, the federal legislature, represented by heads of committees and ministers of government seem to be interested in what is going on in the agency, with the judiciary even dragged in intermittently to adjudicate on some of the issues.

But what does the NBET do? Essentially, NBET is a wholly-owned federal government company, incorporated in 2010 under the Umar Yar’Adua/ Goodluck Jonathan administration as part of the roadmap for power sector reform.

NBET buys electricity from the generating companies (Gencos) through an arrangement called the Power PurchaseAgreements (PPAs) and then sells to the distribution companies (Discos) through vesting contracts. These transactions run into billions of naira on a monthly basis.

To break it down even further, among other functions, the agency is supposed to manage and administer the financial flows for the physical supplies on the electricity network, allocate risks efficiently to parties and perform advisory on polices for efficient system settlement.

In simpler terms, NBET covers the market shortfall in the revenue of the electricity generation companies to prevent system collapse. One report indicates that in 2018 alone, N701 billion was released for this purpose from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) for the 2017-2019 period.

Definitely a lot of money!

However, for the greater part of the last four years,theagencyhasbeenembroiledinamultitude of controversies.

Basically, there seem to be two opposing views as to why a relatively unknown, but important organisation in the power supply value chain in the country, has been in the news, essentially for the wrong reasons, especially in the last three years.

Depending on whose interest is being defended, those who are pro-Dr. Marilyn Amobi, the embattled managing director of NBET, say that the vested forces, which are bent on rubbishing her and ensuring she’s forced out of the system by all means, are doing so because she insists that the rules should be followed at all times.

Those who hold this view maintain that many of the parties in the system , especially Gencos that Amobi has to deal with every time, have access to the funds and the government contacts to muzzle her anytime she insists on doing the right thing.

Amobi, for example has had a running battle with the Chairman/CEO, Sepco-Pacific Energy Company Ltd, Chief Deji Adeleke, the owner of Olorunsogo and Omotosho power plants over a certain N5.25 billion, which is still in dispute.

The fight has gone so high wire that in a recent letter,Amobi accused him of having “deployed all forms of tactical approaches to having these funds paid to your companies without the conclusion of the processes.”

In the memo obtained by THISDAY, NBET alleged that the businessman had issued threats to the MD/CEO at different occasions and “sought interventions from our principals in government in order for you to present to them chronicles of the situation, which you know to be untrue” But on the other hand, her ‘detractors’ say she has flouted many of the rules of service while giving the impression that her over-riding interest is the survival of the Nigeria Electricity Supply Industry (NESI).

They argue that all the parties that have squabbles with Amobi couldn’t all have ‘hated’ her without genuine reasons, even some top employees of the company.

bounds. However, it also puts a question mark on the level of coordination in the Buhari administration, which has seen ministers, heads of agencies and parastatals clash publicly in the past.

The sackings, reversals and all the associated chaos, becomes even more confusing, given that a few weeks ago, Buhari announced the renewal of Amobi’s tenure for a second tenure which would have effectively ended in 2024.

Marilyn Amobi

History of Sackings and Reversals Amobi, who holds a PhD and a degree in Economic Regulation and Competition from City University London, England, and an Economics degree from the University of Nigeria Nsukka, was appointed the chief executive officer (CEO) of NBET in 2016 by the Muhammadu Buhari administration for a term of four years in the first instance.

In late December last year, the Minister of Power, Mr Sale Mamman, announced that the federal government had fired Amobi summarily.

In a statement issued by his media aide, Aaron Artimas, the minister stated that the sack was in continuation of the re-organisation and sanitation in the ministry, adding that the ministry was investigating the MD over complaints issued against her over time.

“In view of this, the minister has also directed the constitution of a five-man investigative committee to look into the myriads of complaints against the MD/CEO with the view of restoring sanity in the management of the company. Consequently, she is to handover to the most senior director in the organisation,” it said.

But in early January, Buhari reversed the dismissal of Amobi in a memo issued by the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) and moved the agency from the ministry of power to the ministry of finance.Amobi was asked to resume her former position because due process was not followed by the minister of power. This happened the same period the president overruled the same minister on the suspension of Damilola Ogunbiyi as the managing director of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA).

Since then, it was learnt that the cold war between Amobi and Mamman continued, culminating earlier in the week in another memo being issued by the minister, announcing the immediate termination of the appointment of the NBET boss.

Making public the decision to end Amobi’s appointment, Mamman stated that she will be replacedbyDr.NnaemekaEweluka,thecompany’s

General Counsel and Secretary.

“In furtherance of the reorganisation/realignments in the power sector, the honourable minister of power, Sale Mamman, announces the appointment of a new Managing Director for the Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading, PLC. “He is Dr. Nnaemeka Eweluka, the company’s General Counsel and Secretary. He is to succeed Dr. Marilyn Amobi, as substantive Managing Director/CEO, while the former MD is to handover and proceed on terminal leave with immediate effect” he said.

Although Mamman said that Buhari had earlier approved the recommendation to that effect, a few hours later, a memo obtained by THISDAY indicated that the decision of Mamman had again been annulled by the presidency.

It also directed the NBET boss to serve out her four-year term, which expires next month against the position of minister of power, Sale Mamman, who in a statement, instructed her to immediately vacate the office.

Apparently taking orders from the office of the Chief of Staff, the letter conveying the information which was signed by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance, Dr. Mahmoud Isa-Dutse and was copied the minister of power, emphasised that Buhari approved the memo to allow the NBET boss serve out her term.

“I write to convey the president’s directives regarding your appointment as the MD/CEO of the Nigerian NBET. The president has approved that you serve out your tenure at the completion of which you should hand over to Dr. Nnaemeka Ewelukwa, who is to take over from you as the MD/CEO. Your appointment which took effect from 25th July, 2016 for four years is to end on 24th July, 2020” it said.

The latest brouhaha also set the minister of power, who wants to be seen as calling the shots in the ministry, with controversial decisions trailing him, and the minister of finance, whose purview the agency now falls, on a collision course with allegations that Mamman had overstepped his

Litany of Allegations Amobi has had running battles on several fronts, including that involving some members of the National Assembly, who have insisted on probing her over some infractions and accusing her of completely disrespecting lawmakers in one of the sessions they had with her.

The latest allegation is that as MD of NBET, she was allegedly still running a private firm, ESL Economics and Management Limited, registered in the United Kingdom outside the country, in breach of Nigerian laws.

Amobi,howeverdeniestheallegation,maintaining in a statement that her company had become inactive and that she was not running it while simultaneously overseeing the bulk trading company.

The NBET MD has also been accused of flouting the Public ProcurementAct, alleged overpayment to selected power generating companies, undue payments to law firms and private consultants.

A report by the Office of the Auditor General of the Federation also accused Amobi of contract splitting in different amounts.

Added to that those listed above was a ‘padding’ allegation over questionable budgetary allocations, among others, for software and rent which were thought to be inflated. But as usual , Amobi has refuted the claims several times.

There is also the issue of high-handedness in the handling of issues concerning top staff who oppose her, including the one involving one Abdullahi Sambo and a Waziri Bintube, who allegedly blew the whistle on the MD and were thereafter victimised.

In June, 2017, Sambo was said to have written to the then ministry of power, works, and housing, challenging his redeployment for whistle-blowing ontheNBETbosswhomheaccusedofmismanagement and misappropriation of funds.

They were redeployed to other departments and despite the intervention of the ministry, the SGF and several others, the matter remains unresolved till today, with their salaries eventually stopped by NBET. The case is currently on appeal after the National Industrial Council (NIC) gave judgement against the organisation, which was appealed by NBET. Is Power Minister Overreaching His Bounds?

Last week’s controversial termination of the appointment of the NBET CEO would not be the first by the power minister, who has been accused several times of taking unilateral actions against heads of agencies under him without President Buhari’s approval.

Indeed, the argument is that the NBET having been moved from his ministry, Mamman’s latest action of sacking Amobi for a second time in six months and getting his decision reversed by higher authorities speaks volumes of his respect or lack of it for due process.

For instance, his announcement of the indefinite suspension of the Rural Electrification Agency’s Managing Director, Damilola Ogunbiyi, was reversed weeks later by the presidency.

In the same vein, the federal government has now reinstated Amobi twice as NBET MD after her sacking by the minister who always cites reorganisation as his reason for his actions.

Again, the termination of the appointment of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) erstwhile Managing Director, Gur Mohammed, by Mamman, compelled a long-written reminder by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Mr Boss Mustapha, to ministers, detailing the process of removing chief executives of federal agencies.

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THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ ͽ˜ 2020

BUSINESS INTERVIEW ADEWUNMI OGUNSANYA

Why MultiChoice is Dominant Chairman, MultiChoice Nigeria, Mr. Adewunmi Ogunsanya (SAN), in this interview with Demola Ojo explains why MultiChoice is not a monopoly, but a dominant player and how it has survived the difficult Nigerian business environment for 27 years

Ogunsanya

Y

ou’reaSeniorAdvocate of Nigeria, evidence of accomplishment in your field, but you’re also known for your association with MultiChoice, which launched in Nigeria over 25 years ago.What exactly informed the vision of bringing MultiChoice to Nigeria?

Twenty-seven years actually. Multichoice has been in Nigeria 27 years. Mine has always been a family of lawyers. My father was a lawyer. Law is my life. MultiChoice is a passion for investment that has gone well and from strength to strength.Again, the circumstances

surrounding my initial involvement with MultiChoice had to do with law, as I came into contact with other initial investors in my capacity as a lawyer. But then I also saw the business opportunity that existed and I took it since it did not require my day-to-day involvement. But as my passion for growing things became apparent over the years, so also has my involvement with the company.

We’d like you to take us through the various stages of the company’s evolution from a novelty, which attracted very little attention to the behemoth it has become.

Alot of hard work has gone into what you see today. People forget that bringing a business, any business, into Nigeria was not exactly an inviting thing when MultiChoice came

to Nigeria. It was bang in the middle of the military era. It was not exactly a rosy period for the economy. Our journey has been challenging on many fronts. From a small MMDS operation in Lagos and Port-Harcourt, we have grown to a major player today. But then, and now we still are enmeshed in constant regulatory somersaults. We still struggle with piracy, overreaching government regulations and changing subscriber demands.

The pay television sector is a mausoleum of dreams; a sector with a very high mortality rate. How has MultiChoice escaped the fate that regularly befalls operators?

This is true. We have survived because we

have kept our eyes on multiple balls. There are many balls to keep the eyes on when it comes to pay TV business. There is that of business and then the need to prioritize quality content for different demographics. In addition, we never forget that ours is a technology business; one that thrives on innovation. We have benefited a great deal from being part of a multinational that pays a great deal of attention to seeking, adopting and deploying only the most current and state-of-the-art technology for our business.

MultiChoice, lest we forget, pioneered Dual View in the pay TV industry globally. We also pioneered Box Office for movie rentals. We also hire only the best people. In the 27 years of our existence as a company in Nigeria, we must have employed, directly and indirectly,

THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER Ëž Í˝Ëœ 2020

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We Have Become a Victim of Our Own Success about 200, 000 Nigerians. Many of them have been top notch. Many of them continue to work for us.

We keep evolving and paying a lot of attention to what the customer wants. We keep trying to balance the need to survive as a business and giving our customers what they desire and require. This is not always easy.

It is tough. Very challenging. Pay TV business is very challenging, as things keep changing.

Consumer demands keep evolving. Put this side by side with the challenging business environment we face in Nigeria. But we keep trudging on as a business.

Despite having almost 100 per cent Nigerian workforce and huge investments in the country, MultiChoice is still viewed as a South African company, a state of affairs that fuels the belief that it cares less about Nigeria and seeks to charge Nigerians more for its services‌ This is based on little or no knowledge of how international business works. It’s borne out of a misunderstanding of what it means to be a Nigerian company. MultiChoice Nigeria is a Nigerian company, registered in Nigeria with shareholders from around the globe, including Nigeria. I am one of the shareholders and I am Nigerian. Of course, everything has its roots and the roots of this particular company, MultiChoice, is from outside Nigeria-South Africa. But a company must originally come from somewhere. All multi nationals are like that. But this company, the one that I am Chairman of, is a Nigerian company and operates as one. Go across our operations and tell me how many non-Nigerians work there. Almost zero.

In fact, I believe we may have more Nigerians working for MultiChoice in other countries than non-Nigerians working for MultiChoice here in Nigeria.

Those who make such allusions certainly do not understand the benefits of foreign direct investments. They have no understanding of how international business operates. Some do, but for their own benefit, wish to play to the gallery and take advantage of fellow Nigerians who do not understand, by twisting the facts for their own selfish end. I hope that someday soon, Nigerians will see through the fiction they keep feeding them about our business and how it runs. Just a little investigation on the internet will show the truth.

Nigerian companies are expanding to other parts of Africa and are doing well in some of those places. Should they not be patronized simply because they have Nigerian roots?

I usually shy away from talking about the operations of our company, as I believe it is the duty of the many brilliant young men and women who work daily there to earn a good living and serve fellow Nigerians and fellow Africans to the best of their capacity.

But I will make an exception here and boldly say that the Nigerian operations are the most pocket-friendly across MultiChoice operations and across the world.

I love this country and the idea that I will be part of an operation that is unfair to my fellow countrymen is truly painful. The facts are there for all to see. Afterall, we live in the age of the internet. The truth is becoming more and more difficult to hide.

Aside the issues around its South African heritage, there is also the prevalent view that MultiChoice is a monopoly, a position attained by suffocating competitors. How would you react to this?

This, again, is worrisome. But sometimes I understand. We have become a victim of our own success. We may be referred to as a dominant player perhaps, but a monopoly is not a fit and proper way to refer to us. We are the biggest player in our sector because we have always invested the most resources over a long period. We have stayed the course over years of investing and getting nothing or very little. That gives us an edge like it should, but we are certainly not a monopoly. Some of the content we have rights over now, other pay TV concerns have also won and lost just as we have won and lost in the past. The content market is an open international market open to competitive bidding. Nothing is done in secret. We all go there, MultiChoice and the other companies which operate in the sector.

are building boxing. The plan is that soon we can replicate what we have done in boxing in other sports like athletics, basketball, volleyball and even handball. We are a large country with many young people able and willing to excel in these and many more sports. We tried the same thing for football in the past and spent quite a lot of money on the Nigerian League. We stopped, but we hope to be back even stronger soon.

My personal desire is to see a situation where my fellow countrymen and women pay less attention to these foreign leagues and focus more on our own local sports, our own local football. It is possible and we must do it.

We are glad with the impact we have had on boxing, especially the impact we have had on the lives of the boxers. I was very excited to see a video of a boxer on social media saying GOtv Boxing has fired and given life to his entrepreneurial spirit and how he has started a small transport company and owns a number of tricycles. It made me so glad that we are impacting lives so positively. That’s what we want to achieve.

Ogunsanya

We all bid. Sometimes, we lose, but some of the time, we win. Should we lose just so that we do not get referred to as a monopoly?

Pay TV business is one that demands long term investment. You cannot invest today and expect returns tomorrow. If you invest with a short-term view, you will fail. Simple.

We had a long-term view and that is why we have survived. When we started, we made huge investments in equipment and we had very few subscribers. We were making huge losses, but we stayed the course until our number of subscribers began to rise.

How exactly is it that we suffocate our competitors? By denying them the airwaves?

By denying them their license? By blocking their offices? Or is it by stopping them from coming up with ideas? Or do we own the banks and stop them accessing funds? Some of these allegations will make deep-thinking people laugh. The business space is quite large and can accommodate as many as possible.

We welcome competition; it makes us better.

We have competition in Nigeria and while I will prefer not to mention names, we have had occasions where we lost important rights to competition. Even very recently, we lost some content rights to some other companies in the market. We don’t sulk and call competition names; our people return to the proverbial drawing board and try to work out how not to lose next time.

Is it inaccurate to say the two MultiChoice platforms, DStv and GOtv, owe their dominant positions to having live sport, notably football?

To an extent, that is correct. But as I said before this is from years and years of building

the brand. We don’t have all the live sports.

Some are owned by competitors. We have become a victim of our own success. I have friends and family who call me in anger when they can’t watch some football games or other sports events on our channels. When I explain that we don’t have the rights because we can’t afford them, they sound unforgiving.

We have maintained our dominance because our customers push us to get them the best.

And we also have Allah’s grace to thank for the fact that we have been successful.

MultiChoice has done a lot for Nigerian sports, especially football, basketball and for six years now, boxing through GOtv Boxing Night, which is estimated to have gulped about a billion naira since it debuted in 2014. Why boxing of all sports?

I was in a conversation some day with some of my closest friends and it became rather nostalgic. We remembered the days when all our superstars were Nigerians like us. We remembered Dick Tiger and Hogan ‘Kid’ Bassey. We remembered Thunder Balogun and Victor Oduah and Baba Otu Mohammed and all the superstars of our childhood and young adult years. As we spent the evening reminiscing over the glory days of Nigerian sports and the joy the likes of Christian Chukwu and Segun Odegbami brought us, I decided that we needed to bring those glory days back. Boxing happens to be the first step in that direction. Boxing because it was a sport I loved as a young boy and one that I have followed all my life. In fact, as a boy, I fancied myself a boxer. Very soon, we plan to begin building other sports like we

In speciďŹ c terms, backed by ďŹ gures, we’d like you to give us a picture of MultiChoice’s socio-economic impact in Nigeria.

Over the last twenty-seven years Nigerians have felt our impact directly or indirectly.Aside the hundreds of thousands of Nigerians we have employed directly and indirectly, we are a major contributor to for the growth of our film and music industries via major promotions and exposure of Nigerian film and music.

We have helped make these superstars, who we are and the rest of Nigeria are proud of.

In the past five years alone, MultiChoice Nigeria has contributed around N630 billion to the Nigerian economy, adding value to the society through the contribution of more than N363billion to the country’s GDP. I believe we paid close to N40 billion in taxes and regulatory fees over the last five years and invested close to N700million on corporate social investment.

We continue to make major contributions to the development of the creative industry with over N82 billion invested into the sourcing and production of local content for DStv, GOtv, M-Net, SuperSport, and Africa Magic and in building local production infrastructure. Our investment has greatly helped to support the Nigerian movie industry, ensuring that Nollywood movies are available across Africa and the rest of the world.

Our estimate, and this is supported by a recent report verified by Accenture, is that through our business operations and our investment in technology, local infrastructure, Corporate Social Investment (CSI) initiatives and local partnerships, MultiChoice Nigeria enriches an estimated two million lives each year through initiatives such as the MultiChoice Resource Centres, MultiChoice Talent Factory, GOtv Boxing, the Sickle Cell Foundation and Let’s Play initiative among others.

MultiChoice Nigeria has spent N71.8billion in supporting these initiatives.

It’s somewhat strange that a man of your proďŹ le shuns publicity. Why is that?

Probably because I am a lawyer by training and vocation. I am also a very private person.

As Chairman of Multichoice, my goal and that of the company is to promote others and not ourselves. We discover and spotlight Nigerian superstars. But we do not consider ourselves superstars. I don’t consider myself a superstar. I am just a lawyer trying his best in business and if my contribution to business benefits others, I am happy for it.

But please, let’s not focus on me.

Where do you envisage MultiChoice will be in the next 10 years, given the changing television viewing habit imposed by new technology?

We are a company that thrives on technology and is driven by a desire to satisfy our customers. We will continue to focus on satisfying our customers and ensuring that we deliver the best content, using the most up-to-date technology. We believe that is the only way to stay ahead of the competition.

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THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ ͽ˜ 2020

BUSINESS INTERVIEW MOHAMMED RUFAI

With COVID-19, Acceleration of Digitisation is Unprecedented Mohammed Rufai has been the chief technical officer at MTN Nigeria for over a year. Prior to that, he served as the chief technical officer for MTN Ghana and was also the general manager, Technology in charge of South, East Africa and Ghana with MTN Group MANCO. Rufai joined MTN Group in 2002 as a graduate of Computer Science from the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi with certifications from globally acclaimed institutions including Cranfield University, Duke Corporate Education and the Lagos Business School. In this interview with Emma Okonji, Rufai speaks on how digitisation has witnessed an unprecedented acceleration with the COVID-19 pandemic. He also elucidates the state of MTN Nigeria’s network operations since the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak, pointing out the steps the operator has taken to curb the effects of the pandemic on people, organisations and institutions across the country

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t the onset of the pandemic in Nigeria, MTN announced interventions for its subscribers, which included 300 free SMS monthly per customer.

This was met with a lot of push-back online with critics saying, people wouldn’t use it. What informed the decision to go ahead with this offer?

All of the interventions that we have implemented have been designed based on an assessment of the level of impact that they can have.

When we were considering the SMS intervention, this was at the heart of our thinking, alongside the very real consideration of how to manage the considerable pressure that our network was under from increased demand for digital and data services. We selected free SMS because of these two considerations: first, it would be the intervention that would benefit the widest number of people and the most vulnerable subscribers; and second, it would be something we could offer at scale that would not unduly threaten the integrity of the network.

The data we are now seeing is clearly validating this. As at Friday June 26th, more than 52 million Nigerians have sent over four billion SMS for free as a result of the intervention. I think you will agree that the impact of that is quite substantial. As we approach the end of the 3-month intervention period, we are on track to even record higher numbers of overall free SMS sent. These numbers should not actually be surprising because we have far more subscribers on our network that use feature phones than smart phones, and so are unable to access WhatsApp, Facebook or other messaging services that ride over data services on the network. These subscribers are those that are most vulnerable to the economic shocks that COVID-19 has brought with it, and as with all of our interventions, these are the communities we have placed most emphasis on. So, while access to free SMS might not be what everyone wants, it is vital to the millions of people who depend on this service as their primary means of communication at this time.

I think it’s also important to emphasise the point about maintaining network stability. In line with global trends, we experienced significantly increased demand for data services during the lockdown and our existing infrastructure came under serious pressure. Because of this, we knew that the network would not be able to manage the surge in use that would come had we dropped data tariffs, and so the decision to provide all subscribers with 300 free SMS per month was done to ensure we could support the maximum number of people, prioritising the most vulnerable, without threatening the network’s integrity, on which millions of Nigerians, and businesses were dependent.

Was there any tracking system put in

maintain our sites. Furthermore, infrastructure deployed for a certain number of subscribers had to be adjusted to the new realities. But at MTN, we are committed to ensuring that the capacity required is always available. We will also continue to maintain optimal balance between enhanced access and network stability as they are related issues.

At this juncture, it is also important to acknowledge the support of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) which during the lockdown encouraged accelerated capacity upgrades.

Considering that the world is now seriously gravitating towards digitisation of the labour force and remote working is becoming a trend, does this give an insight into what services will be the most demanded from the telecoms industry?

Absolutely. I think that the process of digitisation was already taking place, but the speed and intensity with which COVID-19 has accelerated, it is unprecedented. While we have been consistently investing to address the growing demand for data and digital services, we had not anticipated it happening almost overnight. The industry across the world has had to adapt to this and find a way to balance the work needed to sustain and expand the network, with social distancing requirement, new remote working protocols and travel restrictions. Imagine asking an industry to rapidly increase capacity, while fundamentally changing the way that it operates.

This is compounded in Nigeria by the scarcity of FX. That’s the transition that we’ve had to manage.

Mohammed Rufai

place to monitor the use of these services and how customers responded to each of these? If so, which of the offerings did Nigerians respond to the most- that is, which recorded the most traffic, the Mobile Money, SMS or Data?

Yes, we were able to track usage of these services, and the numbers that we have seen have clearly validated our approach. The free SMS service witnessed the most engagement by far. As at 26 June, over 52 million Nigerians used this (free SMS), compared to the over 4 million who took advantage of the free data we provided to access health websites via mobile. That means that over 75 per cent of our subscribers accessed the SMS intervention at some point during the 3-month validity period.

How have the freebies and the significant volume of usage affected CAPEX? As I have said before, our interventions were specifically designed to ensure that the maximum number of Nigerians could benefit,

without putting very high level of strain on the network. Having said that, it is worthy of note that the free SMS utilised so far by customers is valued at over N16 billion, which is a cost solely borne by the company, and which we expect to still go up.

The use of SMS that we have seen is something that we have the network capacity to absorb, but what really challenged us was the demand for data. Fortunately, we have invested a lot in building multiple layers of redundancy on the network to manage the surge in consumer demand or significant changes in pattern such as the one we witnessed during the lockdown period, but despite this, we were forced to develop innovative solutions and approaches and to rethink the way we plan for future network demand. That means an enhanced focus on rollout of infrastructure to support data and digital services, which was already in the pipeline, but can now be accelerated.

We have been significantly challenged in the way in which we dimension, service and

Since we have been talking about MTN supporting the most vulnerable particularly in this peculiar period, what are you doing to reach underserved or unserved areas?

Our rural telephony project has gone quite well. We have been at it for quite some time now based on our conviction that all Nigerians, no matter where they are, deserve the benefits of modern telecommunication services. Everyone deserves to be connected. So working with our partners, we have been rolling out low-cost coverage solutions to rural communities. To date, we have deployed about 400 base stations in the communities. Our plan is to add more than 2,000 base stations to these communities in the next 24 months.

The success of the rural telephony project is perhaps predicated on the amount of innovative thinking that we put into it, the quality of partnerships that we have and our belief that everyone deserves the benefit of a modern connected life. It is worthy of note that in most of the communities that now have coverage, there are no other mobile operators present there. We take special pride in that, and the transformation the connection has brought to those communities, is one of the things that drives us to cover other unserved areas.

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WEEKLY PULL-OUT

05.07.2020

What is the secret of your youthful looks as you could pass for someone in his late 30s or early 40s?

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hen you are from a good stock, falling from a good tree that counts for half of it, considering that my father lived up to 98 and my mother 101, and my grandfather 100. Obviously, there is longevity in the lineage. When you add that to being groomed by a very disciplined person who always said the signs of what makes a real man must start with discipline, simplicity and contentment. These are the kind of moral values I grew up with.

For me, because I saw my father as a role model who did not overindulge in anything whatsoever and kept a very clean mindedness. Even when I brought him to live with me it helped me to understand who the man really was; more than what I knew about him before. I was happy that I had the privilege to show love, give care, and to really take good care of my parents.

As a disciplined soul, you are on a diet, not just what goes into your mouth but what you watch, what you listen to, the people you interact with, understanding the essence of life. All of this put together makes you first and foremost more of a human being, keeps you calmer, and if you double that up with a good routine of exercise and being very particular about your health. A lot of people don’t take their health seriously but in the Oputa family, we take our health very seriously. I guess if you put all of them together that kind of describes my gene as vampirism.

MOST OF MY LIFE’S CHALLENGES ARE SELF-INFLICTED On June 19 this year, maverick entertainer, producer, singer, and songwriter, Charles Oputa, aka Charly Boy, clocked 70.

In this interview with Stanley Nkwazema, Charly Boy talks about marriage, children and his childhood.

How many children and grandchildren do you have?

The late Chief MKO Abiola will tell you that children are not to be counted, But I have already counted mine. I have nine children and 16 grandchildren. These are my biological children. I have over a million children out there which is why I am called the ‘Area Fada’. I have nurtured and guided a lot of Nigerian youths in millions. I have inspired them to always be their authentic selves and I am sure because of the brand Charly boy, a lot of young people who ordinarily would have quit in the pursuit of their own dream stayed and battled it out because if Charly boy could do it, they too can. I know for those who can see beyond the shenanigans and stunts, my lifestyle has inspired millions of Nigerian youths. I am proud to say that for the celebrities who have a better life, a lot passed through my hands.

If we were to mention names, Majek Fashek, started from the village with me. That is where he sketched the song, ‘Send down the rain’. You know how life in the village is, he had to get out.

You mean he was in Oguta with you?

Yes, and guess who brought him? My father brought him from Lagos. About 1980 I finished my youth service. In 1981, my father was transferred to Lagos from Owerri. Due to this transfer, I had to move to the village as I was not willing to move with my father to Lagos because of his constant nagging about my choices. I had already had a big row with him because he had secured a job for me but I told him I did not want to work there. I had enough of living under anybody’s shadow so I went to the village. In the village, I had a free house but no money to start anything, no car, nothing. I spent two years going through hardship. That was my first encounter with poverty. I now knew what it was to be poor. I

ASSISTANT EDITOR OLUFUNKE OLAODE/funkola2000@gmail.com

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T H I S DAY, T H E S U N DAY N E W S PA P E R ˾ ͮͳ˜ ͰͮͰͮ

COVER

Why a Pastor Is My Best Friend person something in life. You need to discover it. Every single person born in life has grace and when you discover the grace and work towards the light, you can be fulfilled by his blessing.

It’s just like God has given us phones, everyone has SIM cards. There is no big or medium-sized SIM (card). They are all of the same sizes. I can load N1,000, you can load N100,000 on your SIM, which means you have access to more information. You can do more things but if you choose to use your N100,000 data to watch porn and I use my N1,000 data to access information that will help me I am still better. The analysis I am trying to draw here is that even if we have grace, for us to have blessings it has to be work in progress all the time. The desire to seek knowledge, the desire to seek life, and to understand the essence of life and spirituality. We are too religious; which does not help us. Religion doesn’t really allow us to explore. We are living under organized religion and organized religion is nothing but politics and trickery.

started running a makeshift studio where young people come, do their demos, and drop small money.

Discussions I had had with so many musicians helped me to know who was doing good in Lagos from the stories they told because Lagos was like the Mecca for musicians. One name kept recurring, that name was Majek Fashek. He was a great guitarist. He hadn’t started making his songs. He just played in a band. Two or three years after I had disowned my parents, my father was trying to make up with me. He now called me and started giving me this song and dance that it was not like he did not support what I was doing but he didn’t see the stability in the music industry.

That I should have been responsible enough to take up the job. I told him, ‘Please, I don’t want to hear that one.’

He now said, ‘OK, I want to show that I support you. What do you want me to do?’

I’m sure he expected me to ask him for money but I told him that there was one musician in Lagos, ‘if you could bring him for me that’s the best thing you can do for me.’ A week after that my father brought Majek. They drove from Lagos to Oguta. That is how Majek started staying with me.

He was like a studio assistant with me in the studio. So, any time we do demo we shared the money because na only me and him dey. One day I don go sleep, I was tired of staying in the studio cooped up all day, smoking weed, vibing, writing songs and doing all sorts. As I went up, my wife woke me that Bob Marley had released another song oh! That she was hearing one song downstairs. I listened and was wondering who was singing. I thought it was a record playing until I came down, noticed it was Majek.

Then, he was sketching the song, ‘Send down the rain’ and I am privileged to say I am the very first human being to hear that song because it was in my studio, they started to write that song. That was it for Majek. I don forget your question sef.

That is where they get it wrong.

Tell us about you being a father.

I sowed my wild oats when I was younger. I was restless and adventurous.

But God has given me the ability, still again from my pedigree, to put my family together and that is what I ended up doing. Now my present and only wife is the mother to all my kids. It was not that easy. It is not as if marriage is a bed of roses. We go through challenges but like I have said marriage is about management. People think that marriage is because you are compatible with your wife because you can’t agree on all areas. Marriage is about dealing with compatibilities but with friendship and love. There is no easy marriage but we have decided when we have a lot of friendship and communication, you guys respect one another, those are the qualities that endure in a marriage that has longevity. Sometimes I can’t stand my wife. Sometimes I know she can’t stand me but we have vowed to be together so we all die here. Who knows the next one I will go and carry now that will be the correct ‘winch’? It is better to deal with the ‘winch’ you know. Hence, my loyalty and my commitment to my matrimonial vows.

I asked about life, your age, the number of children you have, amongst other things.

I think in a way God has blessed me. I won’t deny that. He may not have given me material things per se because my father wasn’t rich like that and we were taught early enough not to attach importance to material things especially money like my father will always terrorise me with his famous quote, ‘A good name is worth more than gold or silver.’ Though my life has always been from one battle to another either fighting for my authentic self, fighting for the dreams that I believe in, fighting on behalf of whoever and wherever I see injustice because I was also taught early enough to fight injustice wherever I see it otherwise it will come back and chop my head off as my father will always say too. A lot has to do with where I am coming from and my values which I still hold sacred and all the things that I was taught when I was growing up.

People seem to have a wrong perception about you because you smoke, ride a bike. Why? That is because Nigerians are incapable of deep thoughts. They are not critical thinkers. It didn’t use to be like that before. I think something happened after the civil war; the values that we grew up with, things that were sacred, everything started to unravel. Then, when you have riff-raffs in leadership positions who are semi-illiterates, you can’t expect them to attach importance or priority to education or history because they don’t care. For them, it’s not important. They will now send their children to get some education and that will be their nemesis in the future because one day, one of them will run counter to what he has been taught.

Everything I like to put at the doorstep of nature and nurture. If you come from a good place, a place of warmth, of love, you are more likely to be a people kind of person, to be a giver, to have more compassion, more empathy.

If you are coming from a place of strife, challenges, insecurity, it affects the man you later become. I have seen that it

Oputa

is either people are running away from their past or they are running back to their past because there is something there that they like or they conform with. They think that, OK, even if I no get money, let me try and protect this self. Like I always say it’s not about how affluent the home you are coming from because sometimes people that come from good homes not becoming very successful but people who are coming from a very moderate, but a place filled with strife, knowing how to struggle, they mature early enough and they make their life a success. The end of the story about that is that it is an individual thing. It depends on what is driving the person. You can’t see Charly Boy from just looking at the rings or shenanigans because those are supposed to get your attention after I have got your attention if you are smart enough it is to listen to what I am trying to say to you. But people rather judge how the messenger looks rather than the message.

How close are you to your children?

Oh! my children are my best friends; they tell me what’s in vogue. They know I am their father but we have a kind of friendship going. They are always talking to me as a communicator. That is what I will always encourage in my own system. Early enough I made my children my friends. So, I am the first to know whatever is happening in their lives, whatever mistakes or whatever successes so that we celebrate together; whatever goofs, I guide them to the best of my ability. I am happy that I have kids that are more of my friend than anything else.

Tell us more about your children.

My first son is a professor of Robotic Science, Sylvester Snr. You know I have two children with the same name; two daughters with the same name. My family is very special and very strange. I don’t know how that happened. Two of my kids from two different women were born in the same month, in the same week; still don’t know how that happened. I consider this all God’s blessing because even as crazy as I might have been in the past, I never squandered my grace. It is only when you work on your grace because God has given every single

You were born into a Catholic family. You dropped out of a seminary school and later decided to go into Buddhism. You’re also associated with Hari Krishna. You are now seen in churches, preaching, and talking with your friends who are pastors.

Can you shed more light on all this?

Bible is just a reference point because Jesus was a very interesting and controversial human being. Even though people did not understand him, the authorities were scared of him. The disciples were not too sure of where he was leading them to, that is why Judas sold him out; that is why Peter denied him; that is why Thomas was doubting him not to talk about the other disciples who were neither here nor there. That is why when Magdalene came and all the people were trying to be in the presence of Jesus and they felt that he was communicating with sinners how come? Spirituality without religion is really nothing. My father always taught me to question things, to interrogate them, never to just accept. You see our problem is a one-directional narrative. The fact that everybody is doing one thing does not make that thing right. Because we have not understood the concept of God because God is love, that is the end and beginning of everything. Spirituality is to understand yourself and the role you have to play in society.

My best friend today is a pastor. He is not a pastor that performs miracles. He is not a pastor that is talking too much about anointing.

He is not a pastor that is always quoting Bible verses for me. He is a pastor that uses thing you can relate to talk to me making references in the Bible where it is. He is talking to my soul, which should be what these religious leaders should be doing. It is not enough to be a good motivational speaker. It is not enough to inculcate in people’s heads making them lazy, that they can get something out of nothing, just by praying, just by doing abracadabra miracle.

But they are working for their pocket. They are not working for souls. So, if you see me transversing from one place to the other, I am looking for the purity and beauty of the soul.

It was as a result of going to these Pentecostal places that I saw a pastor that stood out from the rest, which is more spiritual, that ended up becoming my best friend. If you take away the Bible, you take away religion. What is the colour of your soul, is it compassionate? Is it filled with love? is it peaceful? Do you understand the essence of life? This is what I am about not prayer. I only have one prayer; Thy Will be Done. Period.

Are you fulfilled?

I’m very fulfilled. I can’t trade my life even though I have gone through many ups and downs and challenges; mostly self-inflicted because trying to be my authentic self has a big price to it. The big price that I paid is that most of the time I am lonely. I am on my own because you wonder are people so stupid. They can’t see what you are seeing. Because you have decided to live your life through the values that you have imbibed that make you sort of antisocial because they say when in Rome behave like the Romans and if you are not behaving like the Romans in Rome, then you will be a little bit off. In that way, I say I am. There is a whole lot of sacrifice that usually is made by wanting to be the best of your authentic self. If I was to come back again or live again yeah, I will do the same things but maybe I will be much wiser and smarter in how I put out but I will like the same life.

T H I S DAY, T H E S U N DAY N E W S PA P E R ˾ ͳ˜ 2020

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ENTERTAINMENT

A New Face of African Activism Despite clinching his second BET award for Best International Act, the afro-fusion artiste, Burna Boy, talks about the frustration in pushing for a united Africa, Vanessa Obioha reports

The lockdown has given me so much appreciation towards things that I used to normally do and then almost get tired to do, because I did so much, you know, like touring

BURNA BOY The instruction was clear. Only five minutes would be allotted for an interview with the self-acclaimed ‘African Giant,’ Burna Boy. Nothing more. An attempt to sway his management team to allow extra time was futile. It is no secret that Burna doesn’t fancy media interviews. He finds it sometimes stressful according to an interview he granted to international publication, GQ. But in the more-than-five-minute Zoom call, it was a calmer and more yielding Burna that fielded questions.

Donning a blue attire with his mother hovering around

in a brightly-lit room.

By this time last year, Burna was celebrating his first BET win as the Best International Act. It was a recognition that many of his contemporaries admitted he deserved. It was the year he gathered accolades, performed at Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, appeared on the Daily Show and Jimmy Kimmel Live where he performed his hit singles ‘Ye’ and ‘Anybody’.

He was among Nigerian artistes who featured in Beyonce’s ‘The Lion King: The Gift’ album. By November, he was announced as one of the nominees

in the 2020 Grammy awards. He was nominated in the Best World Music Album. Though he lost that category to Beninese Angelique Kidjo in January when the awards held, he was recognized by the latter as one of the beaming lights in Africa.

The artiste born Damini Ogulu continued his successful streak this year despite the coronavirus pandemic. He was the only Nigerian artiste that performed at the Global Citizen’s ‘One World: Together at Home’ concert. On Sunday night, he took home his second BET award for Best International Act, edging out artistes like South Africa’s Sho Madjozi, UK artiste Stormzy, and Innoss’B from DR Congo.

His ‘African Giant’ was revealed to have accumulated 86 million views on Audiomack. Two days to his historic win, he released a new song ‘Wonderful’, shortly after his feature in ‘Jerusalema’ remix by Nomcebo Zikode.

Before the pandemic struck, he had plans to go on his Twice as Tall Tour, the title of his upcoming album.

With most countries still reeling from the damages caused by the coronavirus pandemic, Burna admitted that he longed for those days he was constantly on the road.

“The lockdown has given me so much appreciation towards things that I used to normally do and then almost get tired to do, because I did so much, you know, like touring. I’ll be in different homes, countries, overnight, every night. It kind of gets tiring but then times like this made me appreciate that and want to go back to touring,” he chuckled.

Whether you hate him or love him, one thing that is undeniably true is that Burna is talented. He doesn’t shy away from this fact. It shows in his music even if most of his songs are dipped in activism. He has an uncanny ability to coin titles that reek of greatness. Take, for instance, his last album, ‘African Giant’, and his single hit, ‘Odogwu’. Both titles are assertions that he indeed is the best artiste in Africa.

Some perceive his confidence as arrogance, others are quick to term him controversial. But beyond the labels is a musician who is passionate about Africa, who is keen on making Africa great, who is proud of his African identity and has refused to conform to any rules that go against his beliefs.

Burna lends his voice to happenings on the continent.

For instance, during the xenophobic attacks on Nigerians in South Africa last year, Burna was among the celebrities who were vocal about that sad incidence. With the recent wave of protests going on in America over the unjust killing of black people like George Floyd, Burna finds himself thinking about the cost of a black man’s life. He grasped for words as he recalled his thoughts watching the video of Floyd’s killing by a white policeman.

“When I saw the video of George Floyd, it was the same thing that ran through my mind when I heard about the killing of Diallo, same thing I heard when I heard about Trayvon Martin, same thing I heard about when I heard about Kolade Johnson killing in Nigeria. You know, it is the same. There is nothing different. So, for me, I’m a person who...I don’t know how to explain it. I don’t know how to say this in a nice way. I’m an action person, you understand? When it comes to all this, for me I don’t know what would be the best way to talk about this. It really gets to me,” he said.

The frustration of helplessness is perceived when our conversation shifted to Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, the revered afrobeat legend. To Burna, Fela was more than a musician.

He is his idol. His adoration for the late artiste is further fuelled by his grandfather’s relationship with the deceased.

Benson Idonije worked with Fela as the first manager of his band, thus he has exclusive details on the artiste more than Burna could find in the media. On his grandfather’s 84th birthday party, Dede Mabiaku, actor and protégé of Fela brought a letter written by the afrobeat icon on the need to promote African unity and his intent to push the slogan, ‘Africa Must Unite’.

Reading that letter which the ‘Anybody’ crooner shared on Instagram sparked feelings of hopelessness and courage in him.

“For me, the letter gave me so much joy and also so much sadness, because it kind of made me feel a sense of hopelessness in the sense that no matter what I say or do, Africa is not going to unite. That kind of hopelessness to see that he’s even been saying all these, not just in music. He’s written a letter saying all this and everything is still the same way, if not worse. It discourages me from doing any kind of revolutionary work because it’s almost hopeless. But at the end of the day, I still find courage in things like this.”

It is the courage of that letter that fired Burna up to make a profound statement on his BET win on Sunday night that went viral.

Thanking BET for the recognition, the afro-fusion artiste said: “I will like to use this opportunity to say that sometime around 1835, there was admission to turn the nation of Africa into a dominated nation. Now is the time to return and go back to the royalty that we were because, in order for black lives to matter, Africa must matter.”

Whether Burna realizes this or not, he has somehow promoted a slogan like his idol, Fela, to push for Africa’s unity and progress. Perhaps, he is the new face of African activism.

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GLITZ TRIBUTE

At 60, Elder Ekeoma Enjoys Boundless Clout with Associates, Friends And Well-wishers in Lagos…

What would have been an elaborate, no-expense-spared 60th birthday bash to celebrate a man of great impact, turned out to be a low-key occasion due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet, the Chairman Nepal Oil and Gas, Elder Eme Ekeoma, shone with optimism and great humour inviting friends, family, and associates to an incredibly huge three-hour videoconference on a night of celebration and glowing panegyrics. Adedayo Adejobi reports

Ekeoma and his wife

C

hairman Nepal Oil and Gas, Elder Ekeoma Eme Ekeoma, a man of great humility, influence, and service to God and humanity, on Thursday evening, June 25, in giving the much-desired spiritual seal to his birthday, took time to thank God for keeping his family and most

important sparing his life to celebrate a diamond jubilee, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic that has claimed thousands of lives.

A rather brisk church service in his tastefully-furnished and palatial living room, creatively revamped with breathtaking decorations, saw the celebrator, his wife, Barrister Ngozi Ekeoma, children, and grandchildren

sing songs of thanksgiving. As expected, the event was attended by heavyweights from different sectors within Nigeria and beyond. This is to complement the high-standing of the businessman and philanthropist, and indeed his generous disposition towards people.

Again, Elder Ekeoma’s fashion sense and Barrister Ngozi Ekeoma’s pristine beauty shone brightly in the

looks and attire.

Present at the three-hour night of celebration were Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, Arunma Oteh, oil and gas businessman and philanthropist, Cosmas Maduka, ace comedian, Okey Bakassi and former President/CEO Transcorp, Emmanuel Nnorom, amongst others.

Kalu said of the celebrant, “Elder Ekeoma is not just my kinsman. He is a very dear and rare friend. You are a man of principle. You stand for principles.”

Also, eulogizing the Ekeoma, Cosmas Maduka, stated, “You are a man of principles. You stand for principles. Clearly, you’ve touched many lives. Elder Ekeoma is a gentleman personified, unassuming, and spiritual. You’ve been an exemplary leader in every respect. We thank God that you shine as a light and beacon of hope. We are inspired and blessed by you.

You are one of the few people who attract my respect. Happy 60th birthday, Elder Ekeoma.”

Giving glowing tributes to the celebrant, a representative of the Lagos Presbyterian Church Nigeria said, “You have allowed God to use you to touch the lives of many people. Your labour of love is wellappreciated. We celebrate you and wish you well.”

Also pouring encomiums on Ekeoma was Chris Uche (SAN), who said, “I congratulate you on this auspicious occasion of your 60th birthday. Listening to testimonies about you goes to confirm you are a good man. Your life is a huge testimony and a signpost to God. Your humility in the midst of abundance is worthy of note. Congratulations, we are happy for you.”

Adding colour and humour to the celebration, was Okey Bakassi, who said about Ekeoma: “If not for the fact that we have found ourselves in rather strange and confusing times, celebrating your 60th birthday would have been in grand style.

Elder, happy birthday. I consider you a mentor on the premise that you are very successful, religious, and spiritual. You also have a good sense of style. You are calm and you don’t make a noise. I have met a lot of successful men. But you are different and I wish I can model my life after yours.”

Ezinne, one of the celebrant’s children, said of Ekeoma, “My dad is a religious and spiritual man. He loves his family and is very hard-working. As a mother with three children, I have come to see and accept how impactful your teachings and training have reflected in my life. Thank you, dad for the spiritual foundation you’ve laid. I’m so grateful for the support you’ve given us and mom. I love you, dad.”

Other friends, associates, as well as captains of industry and titans from the corporate and business world, joined hands with the Ekeomas to intercede for longevity and more successful life ahead.

The very colourful birthday bash that connected many well-wishers via Zoom videoconferencing featured exciting songs, ministration, Bible reading and a sermon by the officiating minister, Elder Joshua Okorie.

The couple of the moment, Elder and Barrister Ekeoma, whom all the dignitaries logged on to the internet to watch, took to the dance floor of their living room in what seemed like a wellchoreographed dance routine that kept the entire audience spellbound and thrilled.

In his closing remarks, Elder Ekeoma thanked all the guests saying, “I thank you all who have come out to rejoice with me. In these times, God is teaching us that He’s the Supreme Being. It is a clarion call for us to draw closer to God in prayer.

Thank you all for celebrating me. God bless you all.”

The cutting of the birthday cake was conducted by an associate pastor at the Believers Fellowship.

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High Life Wale Babalakin Gets Groove Back at 60

I

n the old days, newborns were turned upside down and almost inside out, a process that was necessary for the foretelling of their future. It is possible that this was done to Dr. Wale Babalakin, which was why he was named “Olawale”— which loosely translates to “wealth has descended on our home”.

Considering that his family was already illustrious, this is saying much. Now, at 60 years of age, we see what they saw, and celebrate what they celebrated.

Babalakin is undoubtedly one of the most accomplished Nigerians in recent times. In business, the court of law and philanthropy, Babalakin has shown himself to have truly descended from one of the richest and distinguished families of Osun State, the house of Justice Bolarinwa Oyegoke Babalakin (retired Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria) and the late Mrs. Ramotu Ibironke Babalakin (the UK-trained nurse who was known as “Iya Alanu”— Merciful Mother). Apparently, Babalakin acquired the best parts of his parents - on one side a devoted man of law, and on the other, an almoner.

He has lived on both sides of acclaim. There were times when he was buoyed by the waves of a good life. These were the times of close friendship with presidents, in handling federal contracts, building bridges and airports, and building a corporate empire and name with seeming effortlessness.

Then there were times when Babalakin was caught in the nets.

These were periods when the same court whose mandates he continues to champion censured him on a number of occasions.

From one issue to another and also failing to complete state and federal-level contracts, Babalakin has been on both sides of the bench.

After years of undulating on the waves, things have finally settled for him. Having come out on top, what is not to be grateful for? The lessons accumulated from his exciting life are enough to pass on as a potent legacy. At only 60, his life is already a book with more chapters than that of many lineages.

For the 60-year-old Babalakin, the darkness is already past, and light has begun to shine again.

Babalakin

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

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

How COVID-19 Messed Their Birthdays Tony Elumelu may have 99 problems but money is not one of them. As chairman of the United Bank for Africa, one of the continent’s largest financial institutions, money was not the factor when his dear wife, Awele, clocked 50 in June. COVID-19 was.

Had he his way, Tony though an accustomed conservative might have had no choice but to harness his cash, contacts, and connections to show how much he adores the mother of his five daughters and his bulwark of a support system that he never shies away from adulating publicly with a party that would have left many drooling. However, Awele, the CEO of Avon Medical Practice and chairperson of Avon HM, turned 50 at a time when the coronavirus pandemic was having a free run and reign.

The family held a private dinner in their Ikoyi home to commemorate the day.

COVID-19 was also a clog in the wheel of the celebrations that would have trailed the 50th birthday of Linda Edozien, Chuks Iroche and Osa Asemota, three of the most enduring names in the Island social circuit. They were the ultimate rockers in their heyday. Linda is the daughter of one of Nigeria’s most accomplished technocrats and former Economic Adviser to President Shehu Shagari, Prof. Emmanuel Edozien. She was married to Dean Priddy, with whom she had a daughter, India, before the marriage ran its full course and moved on with Tony Anenih Jnr. Despite Esosa, Tony’s wife’s heart-wrenching cries, the new couple have remained inseparable. Tony is the scion of former Minister of Works, the late Chief Anthony Anenih, and a Peoples Democratic Party stalwart known during his lifetime as Mr. Fix It. So, the money to celebrate his new wife’s birthday was not lacking.

On his part, fun-loving businessman, Osa

Asemota, one of the trio that owned foremost fun spot, A-Bar, on Victoria Island, could not celebrate what was a landmark birthday. Had he, Lagos would have been shaken to its foundation because Osa has on speed dial the people who make the Lagos social scene tick. And he is quite loaded too. Osa is the son of the wealthy auto magnate, Chief Sunny Asemota, the Chairman of Sunny Motors and Omoregie Motors, whose indelible footprints in Nigeria’s auto business have remained a reference point for many decades. When A-bar became defunct, the three partners went their separate ways and Osa delved into communications business where he is doing well.

The same fate befell Chuks Iroche, owner of Traffic Bar in Ikoyi and Abuja, which is the go-to place for top politicians and businessmen who desire a cosy place to chill and network. The Traffic Bar and Restaurant offers and facilitates a sumptuous entertainment experience for its esteemed customer base by efficiently serving world-class food varieties in an atmosphere that is contemporary and conducive. Since its coming a few years ago, Chuks has become the darling of the Island in-crowd and would have had a 50th birthday celebration to remember but for the pandemic.

Last May, colourful Publisher of Ovation International Magazine, Chief Dele Momodu, clocked 60. Hands down one of Nigeria’s most connected men, those who know the renowned journalist know that by his antecedents, his 60th birthday would have been ‘Loud for a Purpose’. The plan was to have three parties in different corners of the world. But nothing of such happened as Bob Dee as he is popularly known had to resort to a Zoom Party. It was no less a disappointment for Lord Mayor Akinpelu, publisher of Global Excellence magazine, who

Vision, wealth, and class distinguish individuals in a society. But what about among peers? What establishes one man as ‘different’ when he is just as wealthy and dignified as his circle of friends? It’s the little things. As Julius Rone celebrated his 46th Birthday, he assembled the poor and needy and improved their lot.

Many things are attributable to the Delta-born industrialist and billionaire, Julius Rone—everything that is expected of a diligent genius. But, the way he is able and always available to connect with the disadvantaged and destitute in Nigeria is something that no other man of his age and prestige has been able to imitate or surpass.

Last year, Rone celebrated his 45th Birthday in Abuja, among those who were orphans and struggling under the weight of arduous life. He bore that weight with them and lifted it as much

Julius Rone Celebrates Birthday with Needy as he could with the provision of essential necessities. This year, he continued that practice, delivering even more gifts to the needy and impoverished, whom he has adopted as members—with himself—of the human family. A bystander might have mistaken Rone’s 46th Birthday for a crusade cum children’s party. That’s just the kind of man he is.

If you thought humility springs from penury, think again. Rone’s humble disposition underlies a potent genius and business debonairness. Julius Rone is an oil mogul and one of the most capable youngsters in the oil sector ring.

His company, UTM Group, is involved with a multitude of operations, including the provision and delivery of premium

marine logistic support in engineering, construction, equipment rental, leasing, procurement, supply, and general labour services. The group’s clientele catalogue is as tall as its ambitions, with regular prospects including state and federal governments, private organisations, and other oil and gas proponents.

Then there’s his family: his lovely wife, Utibe ‘Yutee’, and their children.

These enjoy Rone’s loyalty and dedication the most. This is evidenced by the fact that Rone never delays in making every celebration and milestone of theirs something to talk about. He, on the other hand, prefers to share his wealth with those of lower status.

It is why he was able to donate 20 million to the Delta State government to assist in the management of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Billionaire Dr. Bolu Akin-Olugbade wears his modesty on his sleeves and he has no apologies about it. Even though he is a certified billionaire, he doesn’t like to be called one. As he said in a dated interview, having only $250 million in cash and a few more millions in other currencies should not qualify one for such appellation. Typical of him, but his lifestyle and homes across the world are at variance with such modesty!

Dr. Akin-Olugbade, a successful lawyer with a doctorate in Company Law from Cambridge University, and an unabashed lover of high-end Rolls Royce cars, is globally reputed as one of the largest collectors of Rolls Royce. He told an interviewer some years back: “I bought my first Rolls Royce in 1984 and now, I am on my ninth Rolls Royce. I believe in dressing wellandItravelalot.”

His 10th, the 2019 Rolls Royce SUV called the Cullinanwasamongthefirsttorolloutofthefactoryin December 2018. His Cullinan was the first to be made for Africa. His taste in high-end cars is complemented by a higher one, perhaps, for owning houses in some of the most exclusive neighbourhoods in the world.

In Dubai, he owns a penthouse apartment in Lake View Tower, a 40-storey residential skyscraper located in the Jumeirah Lake Towers.

The penthouse comes with amazing views of the central lake, neighbouring Jumeirah Islands, gardens, waterfalls, and promenades. The tower also provides a breathtaking view of the majestic skyline across the Dubai Marina.

Whenever he is in the United States of

The Amazing Lifestyle of Bolu AkinOlugbade

America, Dr. Akin-Olugbade prefers to be ensconced in his plush 5-bedroom house in Westwood, Beverly Hills. A commercial and residential neighbourhood in the northern central portion of the Westside region of Los Angeles, California, Westwood is often called ‘The Creative City’ because of its bustling and brisk atmosphere. It is believed that he has been holed up in the house since the violent protests spreading through America over the killing of an African-American man, George Floyd, by the police. But a source said he will leave Los Angeles for London when Virgin Atlantic resumes operations on July 1.

In London, he would still be spoilt for choice as he has homes in the very exclusive and affluent St John’s Wood and another 5-bedroom country home in Hampstead.

Whichever one he decides on, Dr. AkinOlugbade is certain to enjoy the comfort and convenience of his wealth.

Similarly, no expense was spared in building and furnishing his breathtaking Aare Ona Kakanfo Palace inAbeokuta. Described by awe-struck visitors as Africa’s answer to the Buckingham Palace, the home has eleven gigantic bedrooms, each en suite, a glittering chandelier that effortlessly underscores the nobility and affluence of the owner, and four huge sitting rooms tastefully furnished to Prince Bolu’s high standards. There is an expansive dining room that can fit a whole community and an amphitheatre with a roof that doubles as a helicopter pad.

Medayese

Akin-Olugbade

Elumelu and wife, Awele

could also not gather friends and associates for his 60th birthday party in April. Like Bob Dee, Lord Mayor had planned to celebrate the milestone age with a jaw-dropping party.

Also in the class of 60th birthday celebrations that never happened are those of Ayo Subair, Executive Chairman of the Lagos Inland Revenue Service; and Elder Ekeoma E. Ekeoma, Chairman of NEPAL Oil & Gas. Elder Ekeoma, a business mogul and philanthropist, marked his birthday as he had always done without any noise.

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Adebayo Adeoye bayoolunla@gmail.com; 08054680651

How Pamela Harry Ebohon’s Enlarged Coast Ndidi Bello Died of Cancer Indeed, 2020 would never be forgotten in a hurry. Just six months into the year, it has turned into a super sad year already and a very strange year for most people. A year many would have preferred to obliterate from their memories forever if it’s possible.

When the news of the passing of Pamela Ndidi Bello, boss of BNatural Spa, broke a few days ago, not a few reportedly put a call to her family and friends to confirm its authenticity.

This is not unexpected given the fact that the majority of the callers were not aware of her protracted battle with cancer. It was gathered that Bello, who until her death ran one of the biggest beauty spas in Nigeria with three branches, had returned to the country from her base in the US before the lockdown in the country over the coronavirus pandemic.

While she was in the US, Bello, it was further learnt, was diagnosed with cancer, and placed on specific drugs.

A source said, “When she was returning to the country, she came only with the quantity that could last her two months.

But after the two months, she and her family went everywhere to look for the drugs, but couldn’t get them.”

Bello

Ebohon

“Seest thou a man diligent in his business? He shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men.”

This applies to Harry Ebohon, the Edo State-born founder and CEO of Propetrol Limited.

Nicknamed the Bunker King by those in Nigeria’s oil trade who recognise his excellence in the field, Ebohon has steadily grown his business from humble beginnings, to becoming a leading indigenous player in West Africa’s oil trade.

Propetrol is at the forefront of consolidating Nigeria’s position as a bunker trading hub on the West African coast. This has been achieved through ethical product sourcing, quality assurance and logistical expertise.

A testament to the company’s growth is the spanking new ultramodern edifice where Propetrol will be conducting its business from.

The all-white structure is situated

on prime waterfront property, on the edge of the Five Cowrie Creek in Lagos.

The liberal use of glass offers amazing views of the iconic Lekki-Ikoyi link bridge, while the tasteful paintings and sculpture would make an art gallery envious. The furniture is both regal and stylish, while the games section, canteen and gym – among other amenities - make it a worker’s delight.

Through its aggressive expansion drive, Propetrol has extended its operations across the Gulf of Guinea, from Liberia to Ghana and Sao Tome, and into parts of Southern Africa.

But Ebohon is desirous of expanding further, onshore and offshore. Sources say he has concluded plans to acquire storage facilities, open more Propel filling station, and procure an oil field.

Tiffany Amber Boss, Folake Akindele’s Sad Moment For some days now, Folake Akindele, the brains behind Tiffany Amber, has not only lifted her outfit above others, but she has also succeeded in hoisting Nigeria’s flag at fashion events all over the world. But the genius at the moment has been saddened, following the passing of her billionaire father, the Parakoyi of Ibadan, Chief Bode Akindele, last Monday at 87. The late Akindele lived a good life and also enjoyed life to the hilt.

From Europe to America, from Asia to Africa and back home in Nigeria, he achieved great heights. For more than six decades, Akindele was rated as one of Africa’s richest individuals and he significantly contributed to the growth of the Ibadan economy. Not only that, but he also lived like an emperor in

his Ibiyemi Villa in Ibadan, an imposing edifice he built in the early 1960s while in his late 20s.

His sprawling medical complex, Aramed, along Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, was donated to the University College Hospital, UCH, Ibadan.

Chief Akindele’s business empire operates under the name Modandola Group of Companies, named after his mother. Madandola Group is into maritime, properties, manufacturing, real estate, investments, finance, and flour milling with its headquarters in the United Kingdom.

The Fairgate Group (a company owned by Chief Akindele, located on Bond Street, London, England), deals mainly in properties.

Some of its tenants include giant retail stores such as Sainsbury and Asda supermarkets. As the last quantification, the Fairgate Group

Folake Akindele

was said to be worth over £1 billion. It will be recalled that Folake, years back, dumped her degree in Petroleum Law to follow her passion, fashion design.

Dayo Olomu Shares Bitter-Sweet Memories At 55 For British-born Nigerian Dayo Olomu, June 25, 2020, will go down as the most unforgettable.

On that red-letter day, handsome Olomu had cause to count his blessings and thank God profusely for the grace to mark his 55th birthday, amidst an avalanche of congratulatory messages from loved ones across the globe. It is doubtful if he could have done otherwise considering his beginning that was littered with killing challenges.

At age eight, he had tasted the bitter side of life, after he lost his father. Faced with this challenge, he had to support his mother by hawking ‘ice water’.

Much later in life, when he relocated to the United Kingdom, his paths were still strewn with thorns, particularly as he was ridiculed when he started out as a speaker.

But Olomu, with unbent determination, has succeeded in spite of the odds against him.

As fate would have it, Olomu, who has 160 awards in his kitty, is today an iconic global brand, a renowned international motivational speaker, human capital development expert, business transformation strategist, leadership trainer, business mentor, executive coach, awardwinning event host, best-selling author, a key person of influence, board member, HR leader, community champion and philanthropist.

No wonder, DO, as he is fondly called by

Olomu

friends and admirers, couldn’t hide his joy, that he penned a powerful note to capture the abundance of God’s mercies in his life on the occasion of his 55th birthday, saying, “I am grateful for the Lord’s grace upon my life because I am a product of grace. I am grateful for who I have become. I am happy the way my life has turned out. Most

people did not believe that I would turn out like this. I know my mother would be very proud of me that her toil in me did not end up in vain.

“I feel great and fulfilled seeing the results in people and organisations that I have helped transform right in front of my eyes as they have choices and new strategies to help them live a more fulfilling and empowered life and become who they had always wanted to be.

“I am happy that I have been able to restore belief and confidence to many who have lost it, vision to those who can no longer see and cure many people of possibility blindness. I am enjoying the products of my dream and vision.”

He added, “Every day, I think of the many people that I meet through my writings, speaking engagements, workshops, and social medium forums and their stories of how I have impacted their leaves positively. I am very thankful for the many opportunities that I have to make a difference in people’s lives.”

He also wrote: “I am also thankful for the grace the Lord has given me to create awareness and raise funds for many charities since 2006 through running many marathons, skydiving, walking 100km from London to Brighton and feeding the homeless through Dayo Olomu Foundation.

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with JOSEPH EDGAR ̡͸΁͸΁ͽͻͺͽͿ΁͹̢

Festus Keyamo – Calm Down My brother, this no be activism o, this na real life politics where real men play. No be gra gra and be speaking big big English and be quoting Constitution as one of the senators talk. You need a high dose of emotional intelligence in making your task a success. That thing I saw the other day plus your follow up parley with the media just make me shake my head. You will FAIL if you continue with this attitude. First you may be totally and legally right but stamping the table and be doing ‘I no go gree’ to elected representatives of the people smirk of arrogance. You are my brother and friend and I must tell you the truth. Yes, you did not abuse them or use harsh words but that your attitude on that video that I saw was utterly out of order and disrespectful

to the Nigerian people who voted them in no matter what they now stand for or no matter how they have dropped themselves in the public view. My brother, you for follow them go the ‘secret’ meeting, record the thing and come out and release the video.

You must understand that politics is compromise, negotiation and finding a middle ground, attempting to throw the executive into a frontal confrontation with the legislature because of your ‘stubbornness’ no go good na. Again, do you really blame them with the things your so-called Ogas have been doing with ‘lopsided’ appointments triggering a N50b law suit you now think the senators will be looking at you as you carry 774,000 jobs to mallams or to

the same invisible people who have received the so-called ‘palliatives’ and the million children who have been fed wey I never even see one pikin out of them for Shomolu? Abi you no remember what Diya tell IBB after he annul June 12, ‘what will I tell my people in Odogbolu’. So, senator will sit down there in committee and be seeing Timbuktu people on his Obubra or Bonny slot? What will he tell his people? Mbok, carry that list go make all of una scrutinize am together, after all you are all the same. It’s not as if the common man will gain anything in the whole thing. By the way, you did not wear mask o abi all that hot Warri - kai Kai don give you immunity? Anyways, my brother, how you dey? Long time.

Keyamo

Osula

Akeredolu

Akinkugbe

Edgar

DADDY FREEZE’S BAREFACED HYPOCRISY You see this brother has made a small name from his tiny cubicle criticizing the big men of God especially the Lagos/Ibadan axis ones. Me I have supported him in that campaign because if you ask me the greatest locust in the land, na those ones. But today is not for them. I was shocked when this brother flew to Dubai to engage in a soiree with the now arrested alleged internet fraudster called Hushpupii. I was weak, what is Pastor Freeze doing there, I screamed.

He came out with stories after eating and drinking things he has never drunk in his life. He had just finished spending time with Angel Michael, well his right.

But coming out to try to justify that visit and friendship on the back of the arrest is to say the least ‘stupid’. Please pardon me. I listened to him on his social media handle spewing all sorts of lame excuses for his poor judgement and forgot to be angry. This man must really think it is fufu we all have in our brains. The arrogance of it all is really nauseating. My brother, please just run back into your corner, you have missed this one. Ndiceme – only Ibibio people will know the meaning of that.

‘disgruntled people almost made the world to believe that our President had been replaced by a dummy called ‘jubril’? This gained a lot of currency that respected international media took note. So my brother Akeredolu, we see you o. Na you o. God will give you the grace and courage to fight this challenge and come out victorious. Not only you but all Nigerians that have tested positive. We will overcome. My prayers also go to Gov. Okowa and his family.

Be strong.

fact that this consummate banker and powerfully internationally exposed brain would be bringing tremendous pride and value to the table, all our people are saying is that ‘in all of Ondo, are they saying they can not find an Ondo man worthy? Please put our neighbourhood palm wine tapper there, he is the son of the soil and we are ok.

Me, I no blame them o, why is their own different? But you see were Lagos different, those ones from number one through to the godfather down to almost every Local Government Chairman na outsider. Ogun State has annexed Lagos since and there has been no problem. In fact if you don’t like it as a Lagos indigene, you can jump into the lagoon. Laugh want kill me, didn’t even know that the late Senator Pepe was Ogun State. Anyways, that is not the gist. I think we should legally and socially seek for a change in narrative.

This federal character thing is as archaic as they come. A serious state should be jumping up in joy to be represented by such a person as Nimi and not be engaging in such backward thinking.

Na so the Cross River man dey do him own on the matter of the Chief Judge.

will buy 20 sanitizers and donate to his ‘side chick’ village and will now run to the media to shout? kai, we have suffered. So when I heard what my brother had been quietly doing without any noise, I had to just reach out to say a big thank you. Welldone, my brother.

I wish you well.

JULIAN OSULA – A QUICK SHOUT-OUT I have not heard from this my friend in a bit, so I reached out one early morning this week. He was hibernating and keeping his head low while waiting for the pandemic to blow over. I laughed o, so you can fear, we bantered. However, in his solitude I learnt that he had been impacting and touching lives in more profound ways than the noise we have been seeing and hearing and that is why I reached out. In Nigeria of today where someone

HAPPY BIRTHDAYTO ME It was my birthday yesterday, 4th July and I celebrated it by buying a carton of sanitizers for myself. At 51, I am vulnerable o and cannot be joking like that o. Well, it is my lovely daughter Chantal who shares the same date with me. During the week, I met for the first time in my life, Mr. Nduka Obaigbena, Chairman & Editor-inChief of the THISDAY Media Group and ARISE News Channel. That is a story for another day. Kai.

GOVERNOR AKEREDOLU – PLEASE DON’T MAKE ME LAUGH This is not a laughing matter. The urbane gentleman was announcing his Covid-19 status in a message to his people when at the end of the broadcast, he removed the mask saying that some people like to be mischievous and can go to town saying it is another ‘jubrin’. I laughed at that point. Do you blame him, when a group of

NIMI AKINKUGBE – ONCE MARRIED, SHE BECOMES ONE AND ALL Shebi Abike Dabiri dem were falling on their knees and be shouting I cannot breathe over the American issue that no concern us? Now see the storm now over my sister Nimi’s appointment as Ambassador representing Ondo State.

They are saying that she is not indigene o and that the fact that she has been married into an illustrious Ondo family does not give her the Ondo blood.

When will our people start accepting that once a woman is married into a family she become an integral part of that family, whether she originally from another state or not. The moment she is married she become a citizen of her husband’s state and her such entitled to all the opportunities and privileges of that state. The pounded yam in her system has not reached minimum levels. Do you blame them?

NO! I hear the Constitution backs their claim, I don’t know how true that is as I no be lawyer but then again it is the tragedy of our lives. Where the ‘where you come from’ comes up as a pointer instead of the expertise and capacity that will come to bear. So the

TERAE ONYEJE – MORE POWER TO YOUR ELBOW! Some people need to stand up to be counted and one of them is this sweet young amazon, Terae. She is the co-founder and CEO of Wowbii Interactive and has been playing a very critical role in ensuring the continuous flow that is the engagement and offsite work place efficiency in this covid stay at home period. Her Wowbii is Africa’s first original equipment manufacturer of interactive panel displays. This equipment has been designed to drive team collaboration experiences amongst others. With the Buddroom and Budzone platforms, her firm continues to support the critical movement that is utterly needed in the economy at this time. Terae, stand up and welldone.

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SUNDAY JULY 5, 2020 •T H I S D AY

SUNDAY JULY 5, 2020 • T H I S D AY

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JULY 5, 2020 ˾ THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER

THEALTERNATIVE

with RenoOmokri

We Africans Are Racist Against Ourselves

R

ecently, I was moved with almost righteous anger, after seeing a tweet by Rupert Murdoch, claiming, inaccurately, that ancient Egyptians were White.

Why was I so moved? Because I too had once been fooled by this fallacious alternative history propagated by Hollywood, the media and other centres of subliminal white power projection.

It is this type of deep-seated institutional racism, and arrogant ignorance from the likes of billionaire US media mogul, Rupert Murdoch, coming from his deep reptilian brain, that drives #BlackLivesMatter.

Elementary research proves that ancient Egyptians were BLACK. The Sphinx is a statue of a Black man. I have been there. It is unarguable. It is history you cannot ignore. The Sphinx is not White.

Moses (who Murdoch cast as a White man in his movie), was a brown-skinned Semitic man who was married to a Black skinned African woman (Numbers 12:1). One of the Black Kings, Tirhakah, is even mentioned in Scripture in 2 Kings 19:9 and Isaiah 37:9.

Even more tellingly, ancient Egyptians were described as Sons of Ham (Ham is the father of the Black Race) in Psalm 78:51.And this ignoramus called Murdock controls the world’s media. Imagine how he has been manipulating the world with his lies!

It is not a big surprise, however. Many of these men do not believe Scripture.And where they do, they, by and large, cherry-pick what to believe, like The Curse of Ham by his father, Noah, after he (Ham), saw his father’s nakedness.

People like Rupert Murdoch can only be put in their places if we Africans know the truth, for as Christ famously said, “you shall know the truth and the truth shall set you free”. IfAfricans refuse to research their history, we should not complain when others try to steal our history.

Like I said about the Sphinx in Egypt, it is the face of a Black man. Do you think thatArabs or White Egyptians built a statue of a Black man?

Or course not!

The White race only got to Egypt afterAlexander conquered the ancient Egyptians 300 years before Christ. The pyramids and the Sphinx were built 2000 years before Christ. TheArabs came much later, with theArab Invasion of Egypt in 639AD (639 yearsAFTER the death of Christ).

The Pharaohs of Egypt were Black. One of these Black Pharaohs, Tirhakah, is even mentioned in Scripture in 2 Kings 19:9 and Isaiah 37:9. I have seen his statues. They are in Egypt today.

The name Egypt is even wrong. If you read Scripture in English, you read the word Egypt.Are you aware that the word Egypt does not feature in the original Hebrew Old Testament? The Old Testament uses the word Mitzrayim, which means straight or narrow place. The

place called Egypt was part of Nubia. The name Nubian comes from Nubu, which means gold. Read Genesis 2:11, and you will understand the significance!

It is high time we started making #BlackLivesMatter in history, or idiots, like the subtle racist Rupert Murdoch, will steal it and appropriate for their race.

Now I am not a racist. The vast majority of White people are not racists.And even amongst racists, many are made so by institutionalised inaccuracies. However, I will not sit idly by while my history is stolen from me.

Africans must Blackwash their history that has been Whitewashed for too long!

Mungo Park did NOT discover the River Niger. We must stop teaching that rubbish in our schools. I was taught it in school by Black Nigerian teachers who should know better. You can’t discover a river that people were already living in and fishing in and swimming in. If Mungo Park discovered the River Niger, then what do we say about the Black man who showed him where it is? #BlackLivesMatter must start from our history. We must stop teachingAfrican kids that Mungo Park discovered River Niger, or that John Speke found the source of the Nile or that Richard Lander discovered River Benue. These are historical fallacies!

You can just imagine thatAfrica’s education system teaches the lie that Mungo Park discovered River Niger, but not the truth that the largest Earth structure ever constructed in history was in modern-day Benin. Our education system is racist against ourselves!

The great Benin Wall was not just the most massive human-made Earth structure ever built, it was four times longer than the so-called Great Wall of China. Yet,Africa’s education system teachesAfricans about China’s wall, but not Benin’s walls!

We program our kids from youth to see themselves as inferior to Westerners by teaching them: AforApple instead ofAforAkara B for Ball instead of B for Boli C for Cake instead of C for Cedi We mustAfricaniseAfrica’s Europeanised education system.

Africa’s education system teachesAfricans about the great maritime nations of Europe. However, we don’t teach that the second oldest boat known to man, the Dufuna Canoe, was found in Nigeria. It is 8000 years old. Eight thousand years ago Europeans had no boating!

Sadly, too manyAfricans can tell you the names of every player, coach and official of the English Premier League. But ask that same man about his history, and he knows ZILCH. Civilisation began in Africa. That is worth knowing than any EPLinformation!

I have travelled to EVERY part ofAfrica. Sadly, what I discovered is that almost allAfrican towns have a brothel, a football viewing centre

THE PUBLIC SPHERE

(for viewing European soccer) and sports betting agents (pool). But few, very few, ever have a library!

Sadly, if you commit a crime inAfrica and everyone is looking for you, the best place to run and hide in is a library. No one will ever find you there because no one ever visits there.Africans must start reading ifAfricans want to begin leading in the world! #BlackLivesMatter is only half the story. To highlight the deepseated self-racismAfricans suffer from, consider the following: We abhorAfrican masquerades and adore a European masquerade (Santa Claus) Many women bleach their skins and straighten their hair Our men prefer such women, to naturalAfrican women AtypicalAfrican will drop his guard with a White person and raise it with his fellow Black If anAfrican wants to market to anotherAfrican, he will prefer to hire a White person to do the marketing Our youths, born and raised inAfrica, curiously develop a Western accent (maybe they went toAmerica in their dreams) When Cristiano Ronaldo speaks English with his thick Portuguese accent, he is ‘cute’ toAfricans. When anAfrican player in Europe speaks with hisAfrican accent,Africans say he sounds ‘crass’!

Our leaders loot, and instead of using it to developAfrica, they take it to the developed Western world.

The BBC hiresAfrican journalists who soundAfrican. But,African broadcast stations won’t hireAfricans who soundAfrican. They want you to sound ‘polished’ and Western. Sadly,Africa is racist against herself.

Africans are some of the most religious people on Planet Earth, yet the Jewish Scriptures are full of the truth about our people. I mentioned Tirhakah earlier. He is not the only Black king mentioned in Scripture.

Another Cushite king, Zerah is also mentioned in Scripture in 2 Chronicles 16:9, because he came with a million-man army to attack Judah in Israel.

AndspeakingoftheJudeoChristianScriptures,Africansoughttorealise thatEuropeancolonialistsusedChristendomtodeceiveAfricans.ChristendomisdifferentfromChristianity.Stopreadingyourchurch’sdoctrinesand startreadingyourCreator’sScripture.Youwillseethatthereisabigdisconnect betweenChristendomandScripture!

WhenyougiveyourchildaWesternnamepackagedasaChristianname, youarenotbeingChristianised.YouarebeingWesternised.Youarebeing deceived.NothinginScripture(andIhavereaditcovertocover)saysyoumust changeyournametobeaChristian.

IfyouarenamedafterademongodlikeIfa.MaybeyournameisFakayode, thenchangeitfromademonorientedAfricannametoaGodlyonelike Oluwakayode.ManyWesternnames,likeDiana,Jennifer,Cynthia,Randolph, etc,arepaganWiccanames.

@ChidoNigeria https://www.facebook.com/chido.nwakanma

Interrogating the 6th Nigerian Broadcast Code

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hat informed the actions of broadcasting regulator National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) that recently ran into stormy waters with some privately-owned broadcasting organisations and other players in the ecosystem? The broadcasting services regulator released the sixth version of the broadcasting code without the input of players in the system. The players find the provisions of the new law repugnant because they claim it could shut their businesses.

The brouhaha around the 6th Code came as my third-year mass communication class was examining the legal and policy environment of media practice in the course Current Issues inAfrican Media. We took it on board for interrogation. I wore the hat of educator and journalist, then called the Director General of NBC to hear their side of the story.

The draft of the 6th Code covered these areas: broadcasting standards, licensing, programming standards, programmes, and news and current affairs. It also included rules on sports rights, advertising, sponsorship, and infomercial. It also covered community broadcasting, network broadcasting, pay subscription broadcasting, and broadcast signal distribution. The other areas are technical, complaints and sanctions.

The contentious provisions are in theAmendment added and released this year. Former Managing Director of the NewsAgency of Nigeria Bayo Onanuga chaired the Committee on Reform of Broadcasting while Idachaba chaired the implementation committee that finetuned the final document. Key areas centre on anti-competitive objectives, web/online broadcasting, and character of Local Content.

Other areas are music, sports rights, and the acquisition of sports rights.

Then rules on production of advertising for local goods and services, unpaid advertisement rates, anti-competition, and national emergencies.

The contentions concern the provision of the 6th Code on intellectual property rights, programme licensing and competition. The concerned players include IrokoTV, EbonyLife TV, Netflix,Amazon, andAfrica Magic. Others are all the indigenous producers of television content as well as those in the distribution chain. Some players produce sporting content such as SuperSport and local producers.

Compulsory sub-licensing is a significant contention. The Code states: “Every broadcaster must license its broadcast and/or signal rights in any genre of programming to another broadcaster in Nigeria if:

- The genre of program(s) enjoy(s) compelling viewership by Nigerians; - It relates to a product or service that is objectively necessary to be able to compete effectively on a downstream market; - It is likely to lead to the elimination of effective competition on the downstream markets; and - The refusal is likely to lead to consumer deprivation.

Any platform that contravenes this provision will be given the chance to comply or risk a fine of N10 million ($25,773).

The Code prohibits a broadcaster or licensee from entering into agreements, concerted practices or taking decisions “which have as their object and intendment the prevention, restriction or distortion of competition in, or in any part of, the broadcast media industry in Nigeria; and…no broadcaster or licensee shall enter into any form of broadcasting rights acquisition either in Nigeria or anywhere in the world to acquire any broadcasting right(s) in such a manner as to exclude persons, broadcasters or licensees in Nigeria from sub-licensing the same” (Section 9.0.1). Such exclusive agreements or decisions are void (Section 9.0.2).

The Code imposes an obligation on sports and news broadcasters to sublicense premium content to other broadcasters for a fee and, if the broadcaster refuses to license, the NBC can compel it to do so.

It means, for example, that while Multichoice can bid for and obtain broadcasting rights for the Premier League, it cannot enter into an agreement or make a decision that prevents it from sublicensing those broadcasting rights to domestic TV stations (such as NTA). The person with an exclusive broadcasting license has earned the copyright to that service. Lawyers assert that as far as competition policy is concerned, a licensee should generally be free to refuse to license other firms and to restrict the exploitation of IPeither to itself or its selected licensee(s).

The 6th Code stipulates the production of advertising in Nigeria for local goods and services. It says “the intention is to stimulate growth in the advertising spend which accrues to the broadcasting industry”.

My students agreed with this provision for the promise of future job openings. The Broadcaster a) Shall ensure that all television and radio advertisements for airing on all broadcast platforms, shall be produced in Nigeria.Applies to goods and services of Nigerian origin, b)Shall not transmit adverts produced by foreign entities.

Inflation also happened to the sanctions NBC imposes. It amended Section 15.1.1. Light fines moved up from N200, 000- N500, 000, heavy penalties from N500, 000 to N4, 999, 000 and severe sanctions from N5m

and above.

Professor Idachaba sees only a storm in a teacup rather than in the ocean. I sent a text message, and he indicated a time to call the next day and promptly answered his call.

The summation. National interest alone is the guiding philosophy of the amendments to the code. Idachaba said the 6th Code would give opportunities to more players in the industry. “We agree that if you invest money, you should get your money. But there is also a national imperative that you should share. We believe that in sharing programming content, you are also elevating Nigerian culture, elevating our traditions, and expanding the base for entrepreneurship. Other ancillary entrepreneurs will also share in the profits of the economic venture.”

What do you say to all those who have raised a cudgel to say NBC wants to kill broadcasting? Idachaba responded, “Now you are the journalist and the intellectual.You have listened to me. Is there anything here that stifles investment?

“It is greed. Essentially greed. They are not even talking to the regulator. They said at a point that we are going to fix prices. Look, I will send you the regulation if there is anywhere we said we are going to set prices. Even in this policy, we expect that the owners of rights will negotiate with interested people. Those who are interested will pay. It is not free. It is at the market level.

“But we are saying that we have a responsibility to directly through policy intervene to galvanise our local economy.”

Will the provisions of the 6h Code dampen the many positive developments in Nigerian broadcasting, particularly the entertainment segment? Netflix is planning Nigerian originals with EbonyLife TV, IrokoTV is expanding, and much more. While the debate raged, contrastingly, EbonyLife TV announced on June 23 end to its exclusivity with DSTV. It now wants to extend to StarTimes. End of argument?

The full interview will run in this medium. Meanwhile, all stakeholders need to sit down sans emotionalism to sort out the contentions.

If that fails, there are other avenues for dispute resolution, including litigation. Paramount is the growth of broadcasting as the young people look forward to careers in the industry and the promise of digitisation.

Because broadcasting is pervasive and influential, citizens should also contribute. What are your thoughts, dear reader and citizen, on the issues of no exclusivity, compulsory sub-licensing and sharing of content as well as its implications for copyright and intellectual property?

T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R ˾ ͳ˜ 2020

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NEWSXTRA FG’s Decision to Borrow $22.7bn against National Interest, Southern Leaders Tell Court

Say two permanent secretaries appointed against civil service rules Gboyega Akinsanmi The leaders of socio-cultural groups in Southern Nigeria have told a Federal High Court in Abuja that the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari’s proposal to borrow from sovereign lenders and multilateral financial institutions is

reckless and adverse to the interest of Nigeria.

Also, they have asked the court to declare illegal the proclamation of the president to the effect that all Africans are endowed to enter Nigeria by land, sea or air on arrival, describing it as a circumvention of the existing

legislation against the safety and security of Nigerians at large.

In a written address filed by their counsel, Elder Solomon Asemota (SAN), Chief Tunji Ayanlaja, Chief Chuks Muoma and 13 others, the leaders told the court how the president consecutively breached provisions of the 1999 Constitution

(as amended) which he was sworn in to defend.

Among others, the Southern leaders, who sued the president, comprise the Convener, Pan Niger Delta, Chief Edwin Clark; Leader of Afenifere, Chief Reuben Fasoranti; President, Ohaneze Ndigbo, Dr. John Nwodo; an Afenifere chieftain,

CELEBRATING PA AJAYI @90 . . .

R-L: Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi with a renowned educationist, Chief Alex Olu Ajayi on his 90th birthday in Ado-Ekiti...recently

Chief Ayo Adebanjo and a former Anambra State Governor, Dr. Chukwuemeka Ezeife.

The leaders had instituted a N50 billion suit against the President before a Federal High Court in Abuja for alleged violation of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), Public Service Rules 2008, Armed Forces Act 2004, Immigration Act 2015 and the ECOWAS Protocol, among others.

Listed as defendants are the president, the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), the Clark of the National Assembly and the Federal Character Commission (FCC).

They accused Buhari of flagrant violation of the provisions of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) in some of his appointments and decisions.

In their written address, the leaders raised issues on the arbitrary handling of matters that touch the fiscal and infrastructure distribution, immigration laws and the prohibition of adoption of any religion as state religion.

Specifically, they asked the court to determine whether it was not reckless and adverse “to the interest of Nigeria for the President to seek and obtain a loan facility from the Islamic Development Bank, African Development Bank, the World Bank, China, Japan and Germany amounting to $22.7 billion for infrastructure development.”

The leaders further pointed out that the president went ahead with the proposal to borrow $22.7 billion despite the warning from finance experts that the debts would rise to almost 36 percent of GDP by 2024 and in the light of the imminent global recession as a result of the COVID-19.

They, also, argued that the $22.7 billion loan purportedly meant for infrastructure development allocated as follows: $5 billion (26%) for nationwide development, North-east 24%; Northwest 13%; North-central 7%; South-south 17%; South-west 13% and South-east less than 1% “blatantly offend the equitable distribution principle contained in section 16 (2)(b-c) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).”

Besides, they argued that the proclamation of the president that all Africans were entitled to enter Nigeria by land, sea or air on arrival was a circumvention of the existing legislation against the safety, security and welfare of Nigerian citizens, which he swore to protect.

Consistent with section 12 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), the leaders pointed out that Items 9 and 42 of the Exclusive Legislative List and ECOWAS Protocol, Immigration Law 2015 and Immigration Regulations 2017 provide for immigration procedure into Nigeria.

Akeredolu Has Failed Ondo People, Says SDP James Sowole in Akure The Social Democratic Party (SDP) yesterday said Ondo State Governor, Mr. Rotimi Akeredolu had failed the people of the state, lamenting that his administration could not give the people the real dividends of democracy.

Also yesterday, Akeredolu refuted reports that linked him to branded bottles of whiskey labeled “Aketi Whisky” as part of his campaign for the 2020 governorship election.

SDP’s Deputy National Chairman (South), Dr. Olu Agunloye

disapproved of Akeredolu’s administration at a session with journalists in Akure on the state’s next governorship election and other issues in the party.

SDP, a centre-left political organisation, also disclosed that some governorship aspirants seeking nomination on the platforms of All both the Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) had contacted the party to sponsor them for the state governorship election.

But dissenting Akeredolu’s performance in the last three and

half years, Agunloye lamented that Akeredolu and APC could not give the people the real dividends of democracy because of lack of manifesto.

Commenting on the performance of the current administration in the last three and half years, Agunloye said the Akeredolu administration had not impacted positively on the people.

He admitted that the administration “has improved in some places but I have not seen much.

No reasonable improvement in the education sector. No improve-

Utomi Seeks New Movement to Rescue Nigeria from Collapse Gboyega Akinsanmi Nigeria’s leading political economist, Prof Pat Utomi yesterday explained the need to build a new national political movement to rescue Nigeria and address burning issues that put its corporate existence under threat.

Utomi, founder of the Centre for Value in Leadership (CVL), therefore defended the National Consultative Front (NCF) unveiled in Abuja last week to mobilise Nigerians for a popular mass action towards constitutional reforms.

He canvassed a new political

movement in a statement he issued in defence of the NCF, citing fundamental national challenges that should unite leaders and patriots together to rescue the country from the brink of failure.

Ahead of the 2023 general election, a meeting of prominent Nigerian activists, academics, and other professionals announced the creation of the NCF, a new political movement to pursue constitutional reforms that are citizen-driven and process-led in engendering a new peoples’ constitution.

After the meeting, a com-

munique was issued listing a former President of Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Dr. Olisa Agbakoba (SAN); Nigeria’s leading human rights lawyer, Femi Falana (SAN); a former military administrator of Kaduna State Col. Abubakar Umar and Senator Shehu Sani, among others, as part of the new movement.

But Agbakoba, Falana, Sani and Umar had dissociated themselves from the new political movement, claiming that they were not part of the meeting where the communique was issued and were not consulted before its establishment.

ment in the health sector. None in economic empowerment to people.

“Moreover, school fees are not affordable for many parents. Any man campaigning but cannot do what he promised, that person is not a friend of the people. That is the reason we said whoever is coming to SDP must follow the manifesto.”

On the next governorship election, Agunloye said SDP would field a candidate for the election, saying those who have approached the SDP are

both from the ruling APC and the opposition PDP as a platform for their ambition.

He said the party that was undergoing reorganisation in Ondo State, had made it clear that it would consider only politicians who would abide by the manifesto of the party.

“The SDP as a political party is undergoing reorganisation. We want to position the party as an alternative for real progressive ideology and party for progress.

“We are not going to give the SDP to somebody just for money. We want people who

believe in the party. We cannot allow shenanigans to take over the party,” Agunloye said.

Agunloye, SDP’s governorship candidate in the 2016 governorship election in the state, said part of the reorganisation process of the party, was the recent dissolution of the State Working Committee (SWC) of the party in Ondo State.

He said apart from the fact that the tenure of the dissolved SWC had expired, the Executive Committee comprised old people, who may not be able to drive the new vision of the party.

Amaechi: I’m Not Involved in Litigation against APC Benneth Oghifo The Minister of Transportation, Mr. Rotimi Amaechi yesterday alleged that he had no interest in any court cases involving the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State.

Amaechi, a former governor of Rivers State, warned that no one should drag his name into any court matter involving the APC in Rivers or anywhere else, noting that he is not involved in any APC court matter.

He made this clarification in a statement by his media office in response to claims that

he was indirectly involved in a case filed in Port Harcourt, Rivers State against the APC. The statement read, “We are aware of plots by a group attempting to muddle the name of Amaechi by dragging him into an ongoing court case involving the APC in Rivers State.

“The group has perfected plans to rubbish Amaechi’s image by falsely claiming that he (Amaechi) plans to influence the outcome of the said court matter.

“We want to clearly state that the minister is not in

court with anybody or any matter relating to the APC. He is in no way involved in any case whatsoever with the APC in Rivers or any other individual or entity in relation to the party.

“The individuals or groups pushing this patently false, ill conceived narrative about the honourable minister are warned to immediately desist from their evil plot. We are not unaware of their sponsors and paymasters.

We will shame them publicly in due time if they don’t put a stop to their nefarious, ungodly, treacherous plans.

THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ JULY 5, 2020

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OPINION COVID Denialism: The Unprinted Tragedy of Gov. Bello’s Propaganda Eze Jude O.

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lthough the last has not been heard of Covid-19, partially due to what can be described as WHO’s cluelessness or meddlesomeness in the murky waters of politics of clinical science; most people, hate to hold intellectual discourse on the infection, because of crass ignorance that pervades our space with regards to the veracity of the plague.

The point I’m trying to make here is: Many people still don’t believe that Corona virus is real!And such dilemma impedes honest appraisal of the situation, by some writers.

Among those that reject the reality of the pandemic were illiterate, ignorant and unenlightened people at the grassroots. We can pardon them, on the ground that lack of basic education is the worst opacity one can ever be in. But on what ground can we pardon elites like Gov. Yahaya Bello, who have not only refused to believe that Corona is real in private, but went public about it?

Nothing can be more troubling than seeing a man in position of authority, mislead his people on matters of health and wellness.

He is inadvertently making Kogi a ticking time bomb in the fight against the pandemic. Nobody has ever cured an illness by sheer denial of its existence or effect.

After having physical contact with LateAbba Kyari, who returned from Germany, a human vector of the virus, Gov. Bello refused to observe the safety protocols. Rather, he dropped a video clip of himself in a gym parlour, cursing his people and those who say he had Covid.

In his words: “Ain’t got no Covid, and anyone who wish me Covid, I wish him HIV.” This is what he sang while sweating on a thread mill; an evidence of youthful exuberance taking its toll on a governor.

He wished HIV to those who asked him to isolate.

By implication, the governor is saying HIV/ AIDS is the worst of sicknesses. This is against the anti-stigmatization law of our land. The 2014 HIV/AIDS anti-discrimination act makes it an offence to refer to people derogatively, or discriminate against them, on the basis of their perceived or real HIV/AIDS status.

How do you think people who are HIV positive in Kogi state will feel seeing their governor make jest of their condition?

Agovernor! He didn’t stop at that. He hosted a press conference, in which he pointedly denied the existence of corona virus.And to my surprise, many people (who belonged to the group described earlier) applauded him.

His ego, inflated by lack of basic knowledge of health science, moved him further to counter and fight the NCDC each time a case is reported in his territory.

His argument was ineffectual too - because “Covid infection presents the same preliminary symptoms as Malaria, catarrh or dry cough,” he dismisses it as a hoax.

Okay, let’s agree with him that what we morbidly dread as Corona virus is “mere febrile” malaria infection, but is he not aware that malaria kills an estimated 162,000 people annually in Nigeria (with the riverine areas of Kogi having about 21% of the number?). So even if Covid is a hoax, as he claims, why not use the opportunity to save the numerous impoverished Kogites who die as a result of untreated malaria?

He ended up making a mess of his disillusioned and unlicensed ‘expertise’ in medicine, when after all his denials, two index cases were reported in his state.

He imposed a lockdown in the affected local government, but presumably sensing that it could damage his earlier ground, retrieved the order swiftly.

The dreadful concern which health authorities raise about Kogi situation, is due to the future danger it poses to the entire country, in that Lokoja is a confluence city where many travelers converge en-route their destinations.

Former President Thabo Mbeki did same with HIV/AIDS in SouthAfrica. He publicly dismissed the killer disease as “America’s ideology of abating sex.” Like Gov Bello, his convened a world press conference and refuted the scientific consensus on the veracity of HIV/AIDS, calling it mere “effects of malnutrition.” In the year 2000, he

Bello established a denialist panel of health workers to wave off the deadly virus in people’s mind. Today, SouthAfrica is arguably a global reservoir of the HIV/AIDS pandemic, with annual death of over 110,000.

With Bello’s uniformed propaganda against NCDC, which betrays the national fight against Covid, Kogi is predictably ferrying around fatal health Bermuda triangle.

Prof.Ayade of Cross River wanted to toe that path. But coming from the academia, he was more tamed in his utterances.

Two days ago, the Chief Judge of Kogi State, Justice NasiruAjanah reportedly died of Covid-19 at Isolation centre in GwagwaladaAbuja. Yet, his state Government said he died of ‘undisclosed’ ailment.

They keep living in day-denial.

The death five days ago, of a doyen of Clinical Sciences, Prof. Okwudili O. Udemezue in NAUTH was a deep-sitted shock to the world that knew him.

Prof. Udemezue is a Medical doctor, and the provost of the College of Health Sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Nnewi Campus. He is a household name in the medical community.

Anyone who passed through that College cannot deny his resourceful impact in the course of professional training. His overwhelming influence made people in some corners to tip him for the post of Vice Chancellor.

He died of Covid-19 in the early hours of Thursday, June 25, 2020.As it stands he is the latest dagger-drawn affront against mankind by the mystic pathogen.Ahuge lesson to the likes of Governor Bello, who are still in doubt if Corona is real or not.

Can you imagine that being a management staff in an institution, that host a Teaching Hospital, housing a sophosticated implements in medicine, Prof. Udemezue couldn’t survive it. Report said, varied respirator tanks and oxygen concentrators couldn’t sustain him as he gasped for breath!

We need to thread with caution and argue sensibly. The fact that the mortality rate of this plague is very low, does not in anyway obliterate the peculiarity of our individual health and biochemical makeups.

That Mr.Asurvived it doesn’t automatically mean that Mr. Z will be that lucky.

Ebola was more deadly, we all agree. But that should be the more reason for Covid to be dreaded most; for while Ebola strain is unmutated with defined symptoms, and transmission occurs only via symptomatic carriers, Covid is novel (new strain) and diverse in its pathogenicity, epidemiology and therapeutics.

Inasmuch as we have our reservations on the shoddy manner and some sort of ‘insincerity’ on federal government’s approach in the fight, we have to agree that beyond the rhetorics, the stark reality on ground is that Covid is real and here with us.

To those who insist on seeing a Covid patient, survivor or casuality before they could believe, let the death of Prof. Udemezue, former Oyo governor,AbiolaAjimobi, and Kogi Chief Judge, in a space of one week starve their unbelief. Govs.

Ikpeazu ofAbia and Bala of Bauchi were survivors. Let that clear their delusion too.

The three precautionary steps of regular hand washing cum sanitizing, nose masks wearing and physical/social safety distancing cannot be overemphasized.

May God grant Prof. Udemezue and all the casualties of this pandemic eternal rest, healing to those suffering it, and those still in doubt the light to see the reality.Amen!

Stay safe!

––Eze Jude O writes from Lokoja.

ARTS & REVIEW A

PUBLICATION

05.07.2020

CHRISTIE’S FOLLOWS THE MONEY, AS IT AUCTIONS CONTROVERSIAL IGBO FIGURES The Christie's salesroom in France

Cover continued on Page 62

EDITOR OKECHUKWU UWAEZUOKE/ okechukwu.uwaezuoke@thisdaylive.com

T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R ˾ JULY 5, 2020

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ARTS & REVIEW\\AUCTION

CHRISTIE’S FOLLOWS THE MONEY, AS IT AUCTIONS CONTROVERSIAL IGBO FIGURES By defending its recent auction of a pair of contentious Igbo sacred art objects, despite strong objections from representatives of the Nigerian government and intelligentsia, Christie’s proclaims its obvious lack of transparency from the rooftops. Okechukwu Uwaezuoke writes

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ingering hopes that Christie’s would reconsider its plans to auction a couple of contentious Igbo sacred objects were dashed on Monday, June 29.

For not only did the British auction house proceed with the sale of the art objects (called “Alusi” figures) in its Paris salesroom, it even dismissed the protests trailing the auction with the assertion: “All items in this sale fully comply with all applicable legal frameworks.”

The artworks eventually sold for €212,500 (N92,821,168.75) to a buyer on the internet, less than its pre-sale estimated price between €250,000 and €350,000. They were part of the private collection of Jacques Kerchache, an aide to the former French president Jacques Chirac.

Hiding behind time-worn platitudes, which position public auctions as tools for the promotion of transparency and the prevention of trafficking, Christie's hoped to suppress possible misgivings about the impropriety of its action. Backing this action with the specious claims to the effect that “local agents were trading in items like these” before the Nigerian civil war and that there was no evidence that the artefacts “were taken away from their place of origin by someone who was not from the place” shows the length the auction house would go just to whitewash its intentions and come out of the last Monday’s sales smelling of roses.

Thus, the auction house could easily reject calls for the suspension of the sale of the controversial works – led by the Nigerian National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM) and two US-based Nigerian academics, Prof. Sylvester Okwunodu Ogbechie of the University of California, Santa Barbara and Prof. Chika Okeke-Agulu from Princeton University – with no pang of conscience and the illusion of complying with the dead “letter” of the law.

Nonetheless, its real intention peers out through the holes of the tattered raiment of its defence and is visible through the tears. Unimpressed, Professor Okeke-Agulu alluded to this defence as “nonsensical” and “a meaningless diversionary tactic”.

“I do not take lessons about the history of African art from an auction house,” he said in a statement made available to THISDAY. “The simple fact of the matter is that the two ‘alusi’ figures they sold on Monday were collected by Jacques Kerchache in 1968-69. This is the information Christie's and museums that have similar works have published for so many years. It is only now when I made them realise that in 1968-69 there was a war going on in Nigeria, that they have now made the even more ridiculous claim to the effect that they do not know whether Kerchache acquired the work in 1968 or 1983.”

Obviously, the British auction house has become entangled in a web of its contradictory statements. For if indeed it had any doubt about the provenance of the sacred figures, its auction website did not say so. Hence, Prof. Okeke-Agulu disclosed: “Christie's in its auction website initially stated that Kerchache acquired the figures ‘in situ’ in 1968-69, and when I raised a question about that, they tried to redefine the meaning of in situ; then they said they used a confusing term to describe the provenance of the figures, and then now say they are uncertain about where and when Kerchache acquired the figures. Suddenly, the great Christie's Inc. cannot tell a straight lie.”

Also, Christie's unapologetic sale of the controversial objects is nothing short of what Professor Ogbechie had earlier described

Professor Chika Okeke-Agulu as “aiding and abetting collectors in selling pieces of their contested collections.”

The renowned art historian had in his blog accused the “auction houses” of “basically serving as fences for stolen goods” by their actions, which he likened to “blatant criminality.”

Meanwhile, there have been obvious attempts by apologists to gloss over the plundering of these objects with the argument that Africans once discarded, sold or gave them away for various reasons. Indeed, these were the claims made by a Nnamdi Azikiwe University-based art historian Professor Clifford Nwanna to the BBC, while also calling for more information on the controversial objects. He also alluded to the activities of Christian missionaries in the area as an additional reason. “Some people were persuaded to do away with their gods, idols and those statues,” he was quoted as saying.

But, Okeke-Agulu dismissed Nwanna’s main argument – which could be weaponised by the plunderers of these art objects – as “irrelevant to the specific question of the looting that happened during the war” and asked: “How many towns in the what is today's Anambra State (the area with the style of sculptures valued by European collectors) do stories of stealing of statues from communal shrines not exist?”

Christie's strangely seemed to be arguing along these lines when it contended that there was no evidence to suggest that the figures weren’t looted “from their place of origin by someone who was not from the place”. In his counterargument, OkekeAgulu said: “So, what Christie's is saying, let's be clear, is that so long as they believe that the statues were not looted or stolen from the communities that owned them by Europeans that it is legal for Europeans to sell them. Remind me again what the law says about buying and selling stolen property; property that the Nigerian government by the way says were illegally exported

from Nigeria.”

On what the law says, Babatunde Adebiyi, NCMM’s legal adviser, told THISDAY: “The Igbo statuettes, the couple, as they are now often described, probably left during a period of conflict in Nigeria, this was between 1967 to 1970. The Hague Convention of 1954 seeks for the return to the nations of origin of arts and antiquities taken away during wars and conflicts.

Long and short of this is that Christie's ought not to be dealing in Nigerian antiquities that were probably taken out at a time of conflict contrary to the Hague Convention of 1954.”

The 1954 Hague Convention, which Nigeria joined in 1961, was adopted to protect cultural property in the event of armed conflict. In 1953, a year before the adoption of the convention, an antiquities ordinance, which made the trade of stolen cultural artefacts illegal, was already in place in Nigeria. In addition to these, there was the 1970 UNESCO convention, which also banned the international trade in stolen artefacts.

On June 17, the NCMM had written a letter to Christie's, requesting the suspension of the planned auction of the Nigerian antiquities until the issue of provenance was resolved. But Adebiyi said that “Christie's did not reply until 4.43 pm when all offices had closed on Friday the 27th for an auction that will happen on Monday the 29th. And the reply was to say they had established provenance, giving us no time to address the issue.

The set of rules applied by them unjustifiably favours them.”

Meanwhile, not long before this auction, a report by the British newspaper The Guardian disclosed that the auction house had “quietly withdrawn four Greek and Roman antiquities from” an auction that ended on Tuesday, June 16, “amid allegations that they had been looted from illicit excavations.”

According to the report, a Greek-born professor at the Institute of Advanced Studies in Aarhus, Denmark, Christos Tsirogiannis, had indicted “leading auction houses and dealers” for “repeatedly failing to make adequate checks with the authorities about whether certain antiquities were taken illegally from their country of origin.”

Professor Tsirogiannis had noted that several pieces removed from the auction house's online catalogue were believed to have come from antique dealers. The lots, which included a Roman marble hare, a bronze Roman eagle and two Attic vases, were works dating back to ancient Rome and Greece and were intended to be sold in the auction organised by Christie’s.

“It’s amazing. It’s the same pattern. These companies advertise due diligence and transparency – and in practice, it’s exactly the opposite. As an archaeologist, my first responsibility is to let people know about my research and findings,” The Guardian quoted the former senior field archaeologist at Cambridge University as saying.

Back to the auctioned sacred objects, Adebiyi pointed out the fact they were sold well below their estimated sales prices.

“This will always happen whenever there is an uproar,” he said.

“Note also that to the African mind, antiquities are not to be sold.”

Promising that subsequent sales of Nigerian artefacts by Christie's and other auction houses will be met with similar objections, he advised both private and public collectors in the West to register the objects in their possession and seek Nigeria's confirmation of their genuineness. Thus, few tears would be shed, he added even as he decried “the brazen and unfeeling nature of the auction house about the rights of others”, which he described as “truly saddening”.

BOOK REVIEW

A METAPHORICAL BOOK ON LIFE Yinka Olatunbosun

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elvin Ikenna Ejiogu's book titled The Greatest Reality Show is an unconventional prose with two separate sessions, built from the familiar to the unfamiliar. The author preempts confusion from some readers and so, he explains his metaphorical approach to documenting real-life situations in his introduction.

The author appropriates the first-person narrative technique, assuming the mind of God based on what has been read from His divine message. The conversational manner of expressing the pre-human world makes the creation account more vivid and relatable. To be sure, he recooked the stories just the same way an experienced chef would make a leftover meal delicious, adding visual elements to

existing stories of creation.

Adamic sin was given life through the characterisation of Lucifer portrayed as a clever character who deceived Eve, and who in turn deceived her husband.As Rev. Fr. BonifaceAnusiem, Ph.D put it in the forward to the book, “the author challenges the readers to be intentional and committed in their respective roles in the all-pervading theatre of life. This text would speak to anyone who reads it with an open and receptive mind.”

The human life is illustrated by a reality show where all the living humans and animals are considered as characters that are assigned different roles. The human flesh is the metaphor for costumes while death is the curtain call for each actor. The Creator is the producer of this grand reality show.Although the narrative is filled with a lot of biblical allusions, it is not to be misconstrued as a contribution to theology.

“This is not a book on theology,” the author says. “It is laden with inspirational short stories that may seem random and incomplete at first but in the end, will come together to convey biblical truths to you and cause you to think and re-evaluate your life on earth and the part you

have been playing.”

Meanwhile, the late chapters of this book and the sequels feature various stories that will drive home the true meaning of grace and salvation. The next story features an inspired parable adapted from real events, that depicts the typical state of many Christians today who, even after receiving the grace of God but are still distracted by things that draw them away from God Through the character of Phil, a once dependable employee who develops a lackadaisical attitude to work, the author presents the value of living a life of chastity and integrity.

Tina represents those who profess to be Christians by being active in church services but in their hearts are deadly schemes to attack their fellow humans.

The Greatest Reality Show is a must-read, not just because of the several human experiences captured in its multiple plot structure but because it enlightens the reader about the realities of daily lives using positive and negative stereotypes.

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T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R ˾ JULY 5, 2020

CICERO

Editor:Olawale Olaleye Email:wale.olaleye@thisdaylive.com, SMS: 08116759819

IN THE ARENA

COVID-19: Is the Second Wave Here?

With the rising numbers of new cases of Covid-19 and deaths, does it mean the much talked about second wave is here? Samuel Ajayi asks

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ast week, the Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, announced that domestic aviation services would resume in the nation’s two main airports, the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos, and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, on Wednesday July 8.

On July 11, Sam Mbakwe International Airport, Owerri, Sultan Abubakar Airport, Sokoto, as well as Malam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano, would join the list of airports certified for reopening.

Earlier, Secretary to the Government of the Federation and Chairman, Presidential Task Force on COVID-19, Boss Mustapha, had announced that that federal government had lifted ban on interstate lockdown provided that movement does not fall within the curfew hours of 10pm to 4am.

In the same vein, the government reeled off modalities for reopening of schools and other public places.

While many experts, including those in the medical line, have opined that life could not be under lockdown forever, and that one way or the other, humanity has to find a way to live with COVID-19, there are genuine fears that a second wave of the virus might just be some little trigger away.

And this does not apply to Nigeria alone.

In China, where the virus originated, Boss Mustapha, Chairman, PTF there was a near second wave of the spread of the virus from the city, where it was first detected in ing of the lockdown (May 4 to date reveals that the country November last year, Wuhan. Towards the end of May, there has recorded nearly 817 per cent increase till date. was a little surge in new cases in the city and the Chinese The figure as of May 4 was 2,802, while the figure as of quickly announced a total lockdown to curb a second June 30 was 25,694. spread of the virus. In fact, the government had to carry out Now, the Director-General of the NCDC, Dr. Chikwe millions of tests within 48 hours.

Ihekweazu, had said infected young people within age In India, the government of Prime Minister Nerandra 20 and 40 bracket are responsible for the rapid spread of Modi announced a partial lifting of lockdown in Mumbai Coronavirus in the country. and Bombay even when there was a rise in daily cases of He said this last Thursday. He also added that the the virus with real and genuine fears that a second wave of elderly are the most vulnerable and urged the youth to take the virus might be coming upon the nuclear power Asian responsibility by ensuring they did not get too close to the nation. elderly.

From the United States of America to Brazil, from Rus“It is increasingly obvious that transmission among sia to Mexico and from United Kingdom to South Korea, young people – between the age of 20 and 40 years – as the fear is that the world might experience a second wave of far as we know, are really driving the spread of this virus. the deadly virus before it is permanently tamed and dealt But those that are bearing the brunt of it are people aged with.

50 years and above. Three out of five people will die from Back home, the spike in cases and the number of COVID-19 at 50 and above. So, we have to work harder casualties, especially in the month of June, got so many collectively to protect our elders,” Ihekweazu stated. people worried. The National Centre for Diseases Control The question on the lips of many concerned Nigerians is (NCDC), said last week Wednesday that the nation whether the second wave of the virus has already caught up recorded 60% of its total COVID-19 cases in the month of with the country. And if that is the case, it should get many June alone. people worried. Just last week, the Delta State governor, The body also added that the nation recorded the highSenator Ifeanyi Okowa, and his wife tested positive to the est number of deaths from the virus in the same month of virus.

June. These deaths included those of former governor of In the same vein, the Ondo State governor, Rotimi Oyo State, Senator Isiaka Ajimobi, senator representing Akeredolu, and some members of his household also Lagos East Senatorial District, Senator Adebayo Osinowo, tested positive. In fact, the state commissioner for health, and renowned broadcaster, Dan Foster.

Dr. Wahab Adegbenro, died last week due to complications It must be noted that on April 27, President Buhari arising from COVID-19. approved a phased and gradual easing of the lockdown Yet, all these people did not contract the virus in the with effect from May 4. early days. The concern is why are they contracting the virus The percentage increase from the beginning of the easnow that lockdown is being eased or practically eased. And

that is what has given rise to the fears that the second wave of the virus might be here already.

But Mustapha, the SGF, had warned that government would not hesitate to re-introduce the lockdown if there is another serious spike in the number of cases. He, however, admitted that cases were expected to rise.

“One significant observation the PTF wishes to make is that new rise in cases are to be expected as nations start to ease restrictions. We shall, however, proceed with caution and we shall not hesitate to change course when the need arises,” Mustapha stated.

Speaking further, the scribe of the federal government said, “What this means is that Nigerians should never mistake the relaxation by government as a signal that the COVID-19 battle had been concluded.”

On schools’ reopening, the SGF said the federal government had not opened schools, adding that the Federal Ministry of Education would have to consult more to be able to decide when it would be safe for pupils to resume.

“Only critical examination classes will be allowed to resume for those who need revision before examinations.

As we have informed you, the Federal Ministry of Education will consult further with stakeholders before issuing guidelines that will lead to full resumption,” he explained.

From all indications, what the government has told Nigerians with a further easing of the lockdown amid fears of a second wave of the virus is that they (citizens) have to be responsible for their own safety.

Even with the opening of the nation’s airspace for commercial flights, it will be preposterous for anyone, government or citizens, to lower their guards.

From all indications, it is not yet uhuru against this dreaded virus.

P O L I T I CA L N OT E S

Keyamo Vs Lawmakers: Two of a Kind!

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Keyamo

ast week’s hot exchange between the federal lawmakers and the Minister of State for Labour, Employment and Productivity, Mr. Festus Keyamo over the federal government’s proposed 774,000 recruitment exercise was avoidable had the minister or the lawmakers grown in their minds and dispositions.

There were questions as to how he arrived at about 12 other members of the 20-man committee, a development that the Director-General of the National Directorate of Employment, Nasiru Ladan Argungu, DOVR FRQÀUPHG DQG WKH ODZPDNHUV UHTXHVWHG IRU D private session as a result.

Was that too much to ask? Isn’t it within their rights as lawmaker to so ask? Isn’t the programme

for the government of which they are a part? So, what was his resistance about? Why did he honour WKHLU LQYLWDWLRQ ZLWK D PLQGVHW WR ÀJKW DQG FDXVH D scene? Has he forgotten he is now a minister and no longer the shadow-chasing activist, a volition, which ironically pushed him up the ladder of national assignment?

The lawmakers too acted very poorly by playing dirty and unruly. It has become their character SRUWUDLW WR EH LQGHFRURXV WR RͿFLDOV RI VWDWH ,W LV DV if exhibiting bad manners in full view of cameras is something our lawmakers have come to relish.

Despite our not accepting Keyamo’s conduct, we concede, nothing precludes him from asking for an open engagement with them in the spirit of transparency. Neither Keyamo nor the lawmakers acted right on this score.

THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ JULY 5, 2020

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BRIEFINGNOTES An Insight Into Edo’s Two-horse Race Between the Peoples Democratic Party Governor in Edo State, Godwin Obaseki and his All Progressives Congress challenger, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, the September 19 governorship election is a fight to the finish. Shola Oyeyipo writes

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n spite of the provisional list of candidates and their deputies registered for the Edo State September 19, 2020, every objective analysis will narrow down the race to two people: Governor Godwin Obaseki of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu.

Although the above assertion is debatable, especially by other party candidates, who would contend that they have what it takes to win the race, the facts are glaring – the two parties on which Obaseki and Ize-Iyamu are contesting are the major parties at the national and state levels – the election is therefore an outright war of political supremacy between the incumbent Obaseki and his predecessor and ousted National Chairman of the APC, Comrade Adams Oshiohmole.

Not only are the major political players in Edo State polarised along party lines or queuing behind either Oshiohmole or Obaseki, the rivalry between the APC and the PDP at the national level is also projecting these men more prominently before the electorate. And very importantly, they are the biggest spenders with huge financial war chest needed to effectively prosecute their campaigns.

Very intriguing is the fact that Ize-Iyamu, who contested against Obaseki on the PDP platform in 2016 is now the APC candidate while Obaseki, who was the APC candidate and Obaseki and Ize-Iyamu later governor, has crossed to the PDP. This also counts as advantage for Ize-Iyamu and Obaseki, who have The PDP had been the opposition party criticising his adminisboth made friends across both political divides. But Ize-Iyamu tration and again, it took great persuasions and horse-trading appears to enjoy more advantage. to get the likes of Kenneth Imasuangbon, Gideon Ikhine and Not only did he serve as Chief of Staff and later Secretary to Ogbeide Ihama to allow him get the party’s ticket after he got the Edo State Government between 1999 and 2007, he was the the PDP waiver to contest the election.

Director General for Oshiomhole’s re-election campaign in 2012 In fact, Ihama took legal action at the Federal High Court, before he left for the PDP after a fracas with Oshiomhole.

Port Harcourt, where he sought to restrain Obaseki from A political heavy weight in Edo State himself, Ize-Iyamu participating in the PDP primary. not only enjoys the backing of Oshiomhole with whom he had A PDP chieftain and former Information Commissioner since mended fences and now collaborating to retain the state in in Edo State, Prince Kassim Afegbua, boldly stated that he APC’s kitty, he also currently enjoys the backing of the party’s would never support Obaseki as his party candidate due to the bigwigs like the National Leader, Senator Bola Tinubu and the “undemocratic” manner he got the party ticket.

APC governors.

“I am bold enough to come out in the open and say that I The Kebbi State Governor and chairman, APC Governors will not support Obaseki. It would have been different if I was Forum, Alhaji Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, last week, assured hiding or pretending to be supporting him and doing some the people that Ize-Iyamu would win the election saying, “We damages. My position on Obaseki is borne out of the fact that hope that the party would emerge victorious in the elections there has to be a difference in the way and manner that democfollowing the achievements of President Muhammadu Buhari’s racy is run in this country. administration.”

“Someone cannot just join a party within 24 hours, you This is more so because the ruling APC is not ready to lose an surrender every whim and caprice of the party to him and then inch to the PDP ahead of the 2023 presidential election, where you sit back and tell me that you are celebrating your Christmas contenders within the party are already strategising on how to early enough in the day,” Afegbua told reporters. clinch the party ticket and win the general election.

There are many more like him in the PDP, who are not likely Though more of a technocrat than a politician, Governor to come to the open to protest but who may not work with Obaseki can no longer pass as a rooky politician. Despite the commitment that will guarantee victory for the party. fact that he is at loggerheads with Oshiomole, he has shown an More than anything else, one thing Obaseki has going for him understanding of Edo State politics to an extent that he could is the support among the people. Edo people see his achievegive his adversaries a good run for their money. ments across all sectors – from the area of economic growth, However, for Obaseki, losing the APC ticket was a big blow education, agriculture, infrastructure, health, sports developin the first place. It would require more than double the effort he ment, education, and others. needed during his first time to return as governor of Edo State, The larger part of the impact he would make at the election if he would. will be based on the support from the electorate. With his For him, settling for the PDP was a matter of necessity, class of leadership in the last four years, the people now rank because he had no other choice, but it cannot feel like ‘home.’

Obaseki in the category of the likes of former governors Samuel

Ogbemudia and Prof Ambrose Alli.

The governor is also getting sympathetic support from the people of the state, who consider Oshiomhole as overbearing and taking the culture of political godfatherism too far.

“No doubt, the people of Edo will in September, reciprocate your giant strides in the last four years by returning you and your amiable deputy for another term in office to guarantee a brighter future ahead of them,” Governor Ifeanyi Okowa wrote in a statement commemorating Obaseki’s 63 birthday celebration on July 1.

Feelers from the governor’s camp indicate that he is confident of victory but wary of the possibilities for manipulation of the electoral processes.

His Special Adviser on Media and Communication Strategy, Mr. Crusoe Osagie, alluded to this recently, when he said his principal’s good governance rating is presently at over 80 per cent and that his chances of winning the election is high.

He, however, hoped that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the security agents would allow a transparent process that would guarantee free and credible election.

“Obaseki’s first legacy is his commitment to the people, which has translated to infrastructure development in all parts of the state,” Osagie stated.

Overall, Ize-Iyamu, an astute grassroots and savvy political strategist, enjoys support from the 192 wards in all the 18 LGAs, while Obaseki relies on his achievements and acceptance among the people, by standing against alleged godfatherism and damning the consequences of his choice.

Ultimately, the determinant factors are the electorate, security agents and the election umpire. Thus, barring any unforeseen circumstances, a majority of Nigerians are waiting to see what the outcome of the ongoing power tussle would be in Edo State.

NOTES FOR FILE

Oshiomhole’s Words Bear No Consequences!

A Oshiomhole

s the Edo State governorship battle begins to assume shape, one of the things some people think might be an issue is the role of the former national chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Adams Oshiomhole in the campaigns. This is largely because of what he said four years ago about the candidate of his party, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu.

But, it is also worthy of note that as soon as the differences between him and his estranged friend and governor, Godwin Obaseki, began to defy preventive diplomacy, he had started to speak ill of him too, discarding practically all that he’d been saying positively about him some four years ago.

What these, therefore, mean is that whenever the matter is about Oshiomhole’s campaign rhetoric, then, you cannot take him seriously.

He is motivated by the spur of the moment. It is obvious he takes nothing to heart. If you thought his words would count, then, you would believe anything.

He’d said both bad and good things about former Senate President, Bukola Saraki, when their going was good and later when it became awry. He did the same with the Governor of Benue State. He’s done that now with Ize-Iyamu and Obaseki. It could be Tinubu and Buhari tomorrow! Worry not about his words; they may be scathing to the hearing but utterly insipid. Let the real issues define the Edo election campaigns.

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CICERO/ONTHEWATCH

Fayemi: Of a Rising Profile and Disturbed Rivals There’s a deliberate movement, although still building up, to challenge the soaring profile of the Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, writes Victor Ogunje

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his is not the best of time for the Ekiti State chapter of the All Progressives Congress and its face of development, Governor Kayode Fayemi. A curious political follower would ask why? The hitherto peaceful and closely-knit broom party is fast disintegrating and becoming greatly unsettled to clean the political and economic space for a better

Ekiti State.

It is no gainsaying the fact that the progressive party and family in Ekiti had been widely respected for its unity since the advent of democracy in 1999. This, they demonstrated under Otunba Niyi Adebayo between 1999 and 2003. It was replicated under Governor Kayode Fayemi in 2010, which makes the current scenarios very astounding to those who were familiar with the party’s history.

To underscore how United the party was, after Adebayo lost to Governor Ayodele Fayose in 2003, none of the party members defected to the then ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), even up to the time Segun Oni was in the saddle between 2007 and 2010.

The most wondrous of how committed the party members were came to the fore in 2007 after Governor Kayode Fayemi lost the governorship election through a widely condemned electoral heist. The members, including those that are presently virulent in opposition to Fayemi demonstrated unwavering commitment and unity of purpose leading to the reclamation of the stolen mandate through judicial pronouncement on October 15, 2010.

Even despite the cacophony of anger and confusion that trailed Fayemi’s emergence in the March 26, 2018 governorship primary, the APC members did not defect. They stood by the party’s candidate and won the July 14, 2018 governorship poll in defiance to negative predictions and against all odds and landmines in their way.

Looking at all these trajectories and antecedents, the people, particularly, the ardent followers of the progressive politics in Ekiti are becoming bewildered and confounded about the recent happenings in the Ekiti APC. Old friends and allies are fast becoming archenemies with no hope in sight about when the bedlam would be resolved.

The gathering coalition of individuals like Senator Babafemi Ojudu, Senator Adedayo Adedayo, Dr. Wole Fayemi Oluyede, Senator Tony Adeniyi, Hon Adewale Omirin and other known friends and pillars behind Governor Fayemi in the past, is fast eroding the values of unity and visionary tendency in Ekiti APC. The exchange of verbal tirades by the two feuding groups is quaking the party’s foundation like a tremor and efforts must be intensified to halt the ugly trend if they planned to remain the same.

One would wonder what had actually brought about this bizzare and awkward situation. Perhaps, it was a clear case of the clash of interests ahead of the 2022 governorship election and the 2023 Presidential race.

The news out there is that governor Fayemi might be interested in the 2023 presidential race, because he would have served out his second term as a governor in 2022. Though no official statement has been made regarding this veiled presidential ambition, there wasn’t any official denial coming from Fayemi or any of his allies either.

With this, it could be taken that as a politician and Nigerian citizen with requisite qualification, Fayemi reserves the inalienable right to aspire to any position in the land.

But one may ask: are those opposed to him also interested in the position? No! But one thing is sure: Senator Ojudu and Senator Adeyeye are old political allies of the APC National Leader, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who has consistently been rumoured to be interested in the coveted presidential seat.

Presently, Ojudu, who was a member of the Committee of Bola Ahmed Tinubu Campaign Organisation in Lagos in 1999 and 2003, is working in the office of the Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, another Tinubu’s political scion, which further reinforces the bond with the Lagos State political leader. Some reasoned that this clash of interests must have stemmed from this end and could have been one of the undercurrents eliciting dangerous ripples within the Ekiti APC. One factor must also be considered here, though and it is the fact that the 2022 governorship poll is in the offing and those opposed to Fayemi were determined to wrest power from him. It is a widespread opinion within the party that Fayemi has been elected twice as a governor and also appointed a minister, which some believed only benefited his political cronies and that other power blocks in the party must be allowed to take their turns in 2022.

What the foregoing lucidly indicated was that, Fayemi might not be allowed to present a freewill successor in 2022. Those behind this invidious plot are determined and they had secured the backings of some heavyweights within the southwest geopolitical zone and to an extent, at the national level to prosecute the political war.

Fayemi’s opponents, according to findings, have endorsed one of them as an aspirant that would confront whoever that will be presented by the governor as a successor and fmobilisation fund is being raised to be able to muster financial muscles to win the impending battle.

One of them said: “This is a battle of our lives. How could someone, who never knew how we formed progressive party in Ekiti came and started behaving as a tyrant? We must rise up against dictatorship. We must end this slavery being inflicted on us by those, who have no values to add before APC goes into political oblivion the way they did in 2014”.

But what Ojudu and his backers were requesting for were far from the aforementioned. Going by the tone of a statement

jointly signed by Ojudu, Adeyeye and 13 other aggrieved leaders, it was clear that what they wanted to remove is Fayemi’s alleged domineering tendencies.

The group said Fayemi has allegedly polarised the party and only dispensing political favour to his own loyalists at the expense of others. They even accused the governor of giving two appointments to some members while some were languishing in poverty in the same party they toiled to build together.

In his own submission about the festering crisis, Ojudu said he decided to speak up to prevent conflagration in Ekiti APC. He added that there is a great disquiet in the party with fear that the APC might implode if Fayemi’s mistakes were not rectified in due course.

The presidential aide said it was wrong for people to be holding two political positions, while others are being pauperised without patronage.

“How can a governor be using party machineries at the wards to be suspending people in a party without recourse to the constitution? They wanted to do it to me, but they failed. They also failed in their bid to do it to Dr. Wole Oluyede in Ikere. This is a party we all struggled to build.

“The last election that brought Governor Fayemi, he didn’t win, because of his popularity or personal effort, it was a collective victory. All of us worked for it and no one can solely claim to be behind this, so there must be mutual respect”.

In a boastful manner, Ojudu claimed that some members of the House of Assembly, where Fayemi thought he had absolute control were feeding him with information and documents about the governor’s financial dealings. If this was true, it confirms that the web against Fayemi was wide and dangerous.

But those on Fayemi’s side perceived Ojudu and his ilk as bunch of renegades and betrayers in the party. They insisted that no governor has been so magnanimous in victory like Governor Fayemi since the inception of progressive government in Ekiti in 1999.

The trio of APC Southwest Publicity Secretary, Hon Karounwi Oladapo; a member of the House of Assembly, Hon Adeoye Aribasoye and the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Media and Inter-party Relations, Sam Oluwalana, had risen in the defence of the Governor, describing him as someone who appoints based on merit, rather than political consideration.

They descended heavily on those describing Fayemi as a despot in Ekiti APC. They said dragging the APC to a court of law without first resorting to internal party resolution mechanism constitutes anti-party and that, they said justified the suspension plot against some of those in opposition against the governor.

Tracing Ojudu’s political history in Ekiti, Adeoye Aribasoye, said the present role being played by the Senator had always been his long-standing tradition of working against every sitting governor.

“Go and check your history, Senator Ojudu worked against Otunba Niyi Adebayo. He did the same to Governors Ayodele Fayose, Segun Oni and now Fayemi. We are not in any way surprised at his action.

“Governor Fayemi is a man that is passionate about the people.

He looks after his supporters. He loves them even after winning election. But Senator Ojudu has a tradition; he always dumps his

followers after getting what he wants. He did it as a Senator in 2011.

“Someone like me won’t be following Fayemi if I have realised that he was dictatorial.

He is a democrat, who respects the rights of everyone, whether you belong to him or not”.

Also defending the governor, the APC Southwest Publicity Secretary, Hon Oladapo Karounwi, said about five aspirants, who contested against Fayemi during the 2018 primary were appointed into strategic positions in government, saying this remains a potent democratic action that can’t be exhibited by any politician.

“The current Commissioners for Health, Dr. Mojisola YayaKolade; Information, Muyiwa Olumilua and Public Utilities, Hon Bamidele Faparusi, were governorship aspirants in 2018. They contested against Fayemi and today they are his appointees.

“Even Hon Femi Bamisile, who also contested is now in the House of Representatives. Hon Sesan Fatoba is now a Commissioner at the Federal Character Commission. What could have been more democratic than this? What else do they want the governor to do to make him look democratic?”

Karounwi hinted that the party would not tolerate any act of indiscipline from party members, saying this remains the best way to prevent the APC from sliding into chaos and anarchy.

The State Publicity Secretary, Hon Ade Ajayi, expressed surprise at the action of the leaders, saying it was wrong for them to have accused Fayemi of dictatorship even without verifiable evidence to prove that.

“All those who are against the party had at one time or the other benefited from it. Senator Ojudu had been Senator and now a Special Adviser to the President. Honourables Bimbo Daramola, Oyetunde Ojo and Robert Ajiboye had been members of House of Representatives. Hon Adewale Omirin had been Speaker, House of Assembly, why should they now want to destroy the party that had given so much to them?

“But as leaders and umbrella body for everybody, we are still appealing to them to tread softly and respect the party’s constitution. No one is bigger than a party that produced him. We should surrender to the party and make sure we do those things that will stabilise it, rather than the ones that will disunite,” he said.

Curiously, those backing Fayemi have been able to adduce reasons why the governor should not be vilified. They even substantiated further how his benevolence had helped his traducers achieve high political feats in the past. The question reverberating on the lips of some neutral APC members is, what exactly do they want with those vitriolic attacks being launched against the governor?

“Governor Fayemi is the leader of the party and we believe he must be respected no matter how we felt about his action. He remains our face and the best contact at the national level for now,” one of them stated.

One thing was clear about the opponents’ agitations: they said the governor was becoming high-handed, which some party leaders had also punctured. The stroppy issue now is, how would the warring parties reach a consensus on this disagreement with these push and denial?

Going by the party’s organogram, Fayemi is the leader of the party in Ekiti, which confers on him some legitimacy and political endowment over others. Have the aggrieved leaders also taken cognisance of this sacred fact? This question is fundamentally apposite, because the aggrieved leaders in their demands never craved collegiate leadership, which signposted that they believed in Fayemi’s headship in Ekiti APC. No one can underrate the powers of the governor in Nigeria’s political setting, APC inclusive. If this practice remains in situ, Ojudu and other aggrieved members will continue to be losers, except they resolve the crisis with Governor Fayemi in their own interest and that of the party. The recent ordeals faced by the immediate past National Chairman of the party, Com Adams Oshiomhole corroborated this realistic assertion.

Conversely, the suspension meted out to Oshiomhole by his ward 10 at Estako West local government of Edo State, when there was widespread belief that national officers of a party and serving and former governor could only be suspended by National Executive Council was also instructive that nobody can be underrated in politics. Everyone is relevant to the survival of the party.

This notwithstanding, Fayemi too must tread cautiously and toe the path of reconciliation to further dissuade those having the impression that he was sectional and one-sided in Ekiti APC. This won’t diminish his political figure in anyway, but further denote him as a leader and father to all.

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Oba Adesoji Aderemi: The Legendary Governor-King He was Ooni of Ife for 50 years, and a Nigerian nationalist renowned as the first African governor in the British Empire. Forty years after he joined his ancestors, the achievements of Sir Adesoji Aderemi continue to inspire. Demola Ojo writes

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nique with the ease in which he straddled the old, traditional order, and a modern construct with new ways of governance, Sir Adesoji Tadenikawo Aderemi, the 49th Ooni of Ife, was prominent among the personalities that fought for Nigeria’s independence and brought it to fruition.

A notable instance was in March 1953, when the Action Group moved the motion for Nigeria’s independence by 1956. The motion was defeated at the Federal House of Representatives by the Northern People’s Congress, to the delight of the British colonial government. The Action Group and the National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC) subsequently staged a walkout from the House.

Oba Aderemi, as one of four federal ministers from the Western Region, walked out with members of the AG and NCNC. He went further by tendering his resignation from the Council of Ministers to GovernorGeneral John McPherson in protest.

Three months later, Oba Aderemi led the Nigerian delegation to the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II which took place June 2, 1953. A few days later on June 8, he met for talks with British Prime Minister, Sir Winston Churchill, on the grounds of Blenheim Palace, the ancestral home of the Churchill family, during the Commonwealth Prime Minister’s Conference.

The picture from the meeting which travelled far and wide, was symbolic. According to the Churchill Book Collective, the image signalled “a poignant moment in the Empire’s twilight.�

The conservative prime minister was in opposition to granting African countries independence, especially after Britain lost control over India during the previous labour government.

But even he couldn’t stop the process for selfgovernance in Nigeria, which started the following Oba (Sir) Adesoji Aderemi takes the oath of oďŹƒce as the ďŹ rst indegenous Governor of Western Nigeria, July 1960. year, with the 1954 Lyttleton Constitution that granted considerable powers to Nigeria’s three regions; Northern Nigeria, Western Nigeria and Eastern Nigeria.

Nigerian Tribune that was established in 1948 with about 12 He later resigned in the early 1920s to set up his own busiEach was an autonomous territory with a constitution investors including Oba Aderemi and Chief Awolowo. nesses in transportation and agriculture, while also an agent modelled after the British parliamentary system. They were As Governor, the Ooni made sure that Ife was the site of the for John Holt of Nigeria and UAC. regarded as mini-countries on their own, with a Premier as first university established by the Western Region. He subseHe traded in cocoa, cotton and palm kernel, and owned a head of government and a Governor representing the Queen quently donated 13,000 acres of land on behalf of the people. fleet of lorries ferrying people and goods across the country, to as head of state.

By the 70’s, the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo places like Onitsha and Kafanchan.

In July 1960, Sir Aderemi was appointed Governor of WestUniversity) was one of the most respected universities in Prince Aderemi became so financially successful, he was ern Nigeria, a region consisting of the present day Oyo, Ogun, Africa, and a centre for the study and propagation of African nicknamed “Atobatele� (already famed as king) by his Ondo, Osun, Ekiti, Edo, Delta and Lagos States (excluding the art and culture. contemporaries and the people of Ife. He bought his first car in Federal Capital Territory).

1920 and by 1930, he had a few others.

It was the first time that a Black man was appointed His wealth and exposure made him the outstanding Destined for Greatness governor in the vast empire that stretched across Africa and candidate to rise to the throne of his forefathers upon the death Despite being a prince, it was not a given that Adesoji beyond. of his predecessor, Oba Ademiluyi Ajagun. By the time Oba Aderemi would be king, as Ife’s system of monarchy recogIt was in recognition of Oba Aderemi’s considerable influAderemi ascended the throne as the 49th Ooni in 1930, he was nises four ruling houses with numerous princes eligible for ence and experience in governance, as member of the federal reputed to be a millionaire in pounds. kingship. But his father, Prince Gbadebo, saw the future. legislative council in the preceding years, and as delegate to Born November 15,1889, the young Aderemi was treated as different conferences that fashioned the country’s constituroyalty from birth, after his father, who was also an Ifa priest, Money, Power, Respect tions. took him before the oracle, and got word that his son would During the colonial era, the British leaned on existing native In the eyes of the wider world, Sir Aderemi was not just a someday be king. political structures and hierarchy for governance. Oba Adesoji Nigerian nationalist, but a frontline figure in Africa’s quest for Adesoji Aderemi was subsequently prepared for the task Aderemi thus gained a considerable amount of power, as he self-governance. He was a delegate to the African Conference ahead, even after losing his father at eight. His mother made was regarded as the premier traditional ruler in Yorubaland. in England in 1948, and his participation was trumpeted by the sure he was one of the first students to be enrolled at the St But the Ooni was ahead of his time in realising that along Associated Press to prove just how important the event was.

Phillips Primary School Ife, in 1900. He later became a pupil with the clamour for self-governance, would come the Internationally, he was known as the King of Yorubaland, teacher in 1907, and immediately registered with an overseas reduction in the powers of traditional rulers. The colonial but this was not just because he was Ooni of Ife, but because of correspondence school, for private tuition. government led by McPherson tried to appeal to the Ooni’s his personality. He brought increased respect and recognition Despite his desire to travel to London and pursue a law self-interest, by pressuring him to oppose the fight for indeto the throne of his forefathers. degree, as many who would later clamour for Nigeria’s pendence. But Oba Aderemi was not swayed.

Prior to his installation as the 49th Ooni on September 2, nationhood did, his mother dissuaded him, in order to fulfil According to Chief Obafemi Awolowo, during a eulogy de1930, at the age of 40, Ife was a small town whose reputation the prophecy at his birth. livered after the famed monarch’s passing on July 3, 1980, “He was limited to the mythical belief of it being the cradle of Rather, Prince Aderemi continued to rise through the ranks must have felt gratified that though the administrative power mankind, according to the Yoruba people. at the Nigerian Railway Corporation which he joined in 1909. of traditional rulers in Nigeria had been much curtailed, his Ooni Aderemi was to change that in no time. An avid He worked in various departments and was station manager own children are among those who now manage the affairs of advocate of empowerment through education, the first literate across many towns including Port-Harcourt and Ibadan. the country.�

Ooni founded the town’s first secondary school, Oduduwa Oba Aderemi was a core protagonist of the Yoruba renaisCollege, in 1932. It was the first privately owned college in sance who successfully juggled dual roles as a national Nigeria. political figure while he was a traditional ruler.

Oba Aderemi also brought telephone services to Ile-Ife in He transformed Ife into a relatively modern town at the 1938, and built an official residence for the Ooni, which stands time, and his reign was remarkably peaceful. Being an astute Ëž Ă™Ă˜Ă“ Ă™Ă? Ă?Ă? ĚŽ ͚Π͝͸͚̋Π΀͸ to this day. businessman himself, he inspired and created a pathway to Ëž Ă?ĂœĂ—Ă‹Ă˜Ă?Ă˜Ăž Ă’Ă‹Ă“ĂœĂ—Ă‹Ă˜Ëœ Ă™ĂœĂ&#x;ĂŒĂ‹ Ă™Ă&#x;Ă˜Ă?Ă“Ă– Ă™Ă? ĂŒĂ‹Ă? ͚Π͝Ϳ͚̋Πͽ͚ He established the Ife museum of antiquities in 1938, followwealth for a lot of indigenes, especially in agriculture. Ëž Ă?Ă—ĂŒĂ?ĂœËœ Ă?Ă‘Ă“Ă?ÖËÞÓà Ă? Ă™Ă&#x;Ă˜Ă?Ă“Ă– Ă™Ă? Ă“Ă‘Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă‹ ͚Π̋͟͞ ͚Πͽ͚ ing excavations of bronze, stone and terracotta artefacts dating He wore many crowns; traditionalist and modernist, the Ëž Ă?Ă–Ă?Ă‘Ă‹ĂžĂ? ÞÙ Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă‹Ă˜ Ă™Ă˜Ă?Ă?ĂœĂ?Ă˜Ă?Ă?Ëœ Ă™Ă˜ĂŽĂ™Ă˜ ĚŽ ͚Π͟΀ back to the 12th century AD, including the famous Ori Olokun son of a warrior who was a pacifist; a royal and a diplomat; a and Obalufon Mask.

British Knight but a Nigerian nationalist. Ëž Ă?Ă—ĂŒĂ?Ăœ Ă™Ă? ÞÒĂ? Ă“Ă‘Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă‹Ă˜ Ă?ĂŽĂ?ĂœĂ‹Ă– Ă™Ă&#x;Ă?Ă? Ă™Ă? Ă?ĂšĂœĂ?Ă?Ă?Ă˜ĂžĂ‹ĂžĂ“Ă Ă?Ă? ͚Πͽͺ͚̋Πͽ͟ The discoveries brought global attention to Ife, with the In the eulogy titled A Rare Breed of Monarch, Chief Ëž Ă“Ă˜Ă“Ă?ĂžĂ?Ăœ Ă“Ă˜ ÞÒĂ? Ă?Ă˜ĂžĂœĂ‹Ă– Ùà Ă?ĂœĂ˜Ă—Ă?Ă˜ĂžĚ‹ ͚Πͽͺ̋ ͚Πͽ͟ realisation that it was a thriving civilisation in medieval times, Awolowo said: “During all our innumerable meetings, discusËž ĂœĂ?Ă?Ă“ĂŽĂ?Ă˜ĂžËœ

Ă?Ă?ĂžĂ?ĂœĂ˜

Ă™Ă&#x;Ă?Ă? Ă™ Ă?

Ă’Ă“Ă?Ă?Ă? ĚŽ

Íš Πͽͺ̋ Íš Π͞͸ long before any European contact had taken place with the sions and conversations, the late Ooni did not, even on a single Ëž Ă?Ă‹ĂŽ Ă™Ă? Ă“Ă‘Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă‹Ă˜ Ă?Ă–Ă?Ă‘Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜ ÞÙ ÞÒĂ? Ă™ĂœĂ™Ă˜Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜ Ă™Ă? Ă&#x;Ă?Ă?Ă˜ Ă–Ă“Ă¤Ă‹ĂŒĂ?ÞÒ

ĚŽ ͚Πͽ͝ occasion, raise any issue of personal benefit to himself. His sole local population: a commercial, political and spiritual centre with access to lucrative trade networks across West Africa. concern at all times was the welfare of his dear people in Ile-Ife, Ëž Ă?Ă–Ă?Ă‘Ă‹ĂžĂ? ÞÙ Ă“Ă‘Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă‹Ă˜ Ă™Ă˜Ă?ÞÓÞĂ&#x;ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ă‹Ă– Ă™Ă˜Ă?Ă?ĂœĂ?Ă˜Ă?Ă?Ă?Ě‹ ͚Πͽ͚̋͝Πͽ΀ In 1947, the Ooni established a newspaper – New times of and in Nigeria as a whole.â€? Ëž Ă“ĂœĂ?Ăž Ă–Ă‹Ă?Ă• Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă‹Ă˜ Ùà Ă?ĂœĂ˜Ă™Ăœ Ě™ Ă?Ă?ĂžĂ?ĂœĂ˜ Ă?Ă‘Ă“Ă™Ă˜ Ă™Ă? Ă“Ă‘Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă‹Ěš ĚŽ ͚Π͞͸͚̋Π͞ͺ Nigeria as publisher, with Chief Obafemi Awolowo as the This is an attribute that present day Nigerian leaders would Ëž Ă?ĂœĂ—Ă‹Ă˜Ă?Ă˜Ăž Ă’Ă‹Ă“ĂœĂ—Ă‹Ă˜ Ă?Ă?ĂžĂ?ĂœĂ˜Ëš ĂŁĂ™ ÞËÞĂ? Ă™Ă&#x;Ă˜Ă?Ă“Ă– Ă™Ă? ĂŒĂ‹Ă?Ě‹ ͚Π͚̋͞͞Π΀͸ managing editor. The newspaper was the precursor of the do well to emulate.

PROFILE AT A GLANCE

T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R ˾ JULY 5, 2020

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CICERO/TRIBUTE

Ooni Adesoji Aderemi

Ooni Aderemi with his first son, Prince Adedapo Aderemi, at Government House, Ibadan, July 1961

President Buhari Pays Tribute to Late Ooni Aderemi

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resident Muhammadu Buhari on Friday paid a glowing tribute to the late Ooni of Ife, Oba Adesoji Aderemi, on the occasion of the 40th anniversary of the passage of the foremost monarch.

In a letter to the family of the departed Oba who was the first indigenous governor of Western Nigeria in 1960, the President said; “It gives me a deep sense of pleasure and fulfilment to do this brief tribute in memory of the illustrious Ooni of Ife, Oba Adesoji Tadenikawo Aderemi, who reigned between 1930 and 1980.

“On this 40th Remembrance Anniversary of the great man, the country recalls the imprints of a foremost Nationalist, very successful businessman, former Governor, Western Region (1960-1962), and traditional ruler, on the sands of time.

“To the benefit of his memory, Ooni Aderemi built schools, dispensaries, churches, museums, and attracted the establishment in his domain of waterworks, electricity projects, and the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife).

“It is also on record that the respected monarch was a Member, Legislative Council of Nigeria (1946-1951); Delegate, African Conference, London (1948); President, Western House

Zik of Africa, Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, greets Oba Adesoji Aderemi sometime in the 50s/60s.

Looking on are Chief Samuel Ladoke Akintola (behind Oba Aderemi), Nigeria’s first Prime Minister Sir Tafawa Balewa (in all white), and Chief Obafemi Awolowo (in glasses)

of Chiefs (1952-1960); Member, Federal House of Representatives/Minister (1952-1954); led Nigeria’s delegation to Queen Elizabeth II’s Coronation (1953); and Member, Nigeria Constitutional Conferences (1953-1958).

“As the family remembers this awesome personality, knighted twice by the Queen of England, it gladdens the heart that his memory remains evergreen. Please, keep this alive, for the guidance and inspiration of the current and subsequent generations.

“May God give us more illustrious people in the mould of Ooni Adesoji Aderemi. Amen.”

Ooni Aderemi with recently excavated artefacts dating back as far as the 12th century AD, circa 1938

Ooni Ogunwusi Promises to Name Prince after Ooni Aderemi

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he 51th Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, (Ojaja II) has pledged to name his son after the late Sir Adesoji Tadenikawo Aderemi (Atobatele I), the 49th monarch of the ancient town as a mark of love, respect and appreciation of his good works.

Oba Ogunwusi spoke on Friday at a programme organised to mark the 40th year remembrance for the late Ooni - who reigned between 1930-1980 - by his children and grandchildren inside the Ile-Oodua palace in Ile-Ife. Oba Ogunwusi described the late monarch as a great icon who will forever be remembered for his immeasurable contributions to the independence, stabilisation, and growth of Nigeria.

“I wish to implore our politicians across the country to look deep into the life, time, and accomplishments of Sir Aderemi and learn great lessons of servant leadership. He was selflessly

committed to the development of the country.

“Among several tangible virtues to be emulated from the good life of Sir Aderemi is the good name he left behind which still speaks volume till date. Houses, cars, and other material gains of life will surely fade away while one’s name remains in the book of history forever.

“Today, the ancient city of Ile-Ife and indeed the entire human race is proud to have had Sir Adesoji Aderemi whom we shall continue to celebrate. Plans are underway to immortalize him and I have discussed it with members of the family.

“I am going to name my prince after him as a mark of love,” Ooni Adeyeye said.

Prince Owoade Aderemi, who spoke on behalf of the family, thanked Oba Ogunwusi for the warm reception and acknowledgement of their father’s giant strides during his lifetime.

“I am sure that our father would be so happy in the world

beyond to realize how great and united his family is after four decades. As princes and princesses, we have done a lot to develop Ile-Ife and I wish to state that we shall continue to be active in the growth of our beloved city.”

In the same vein, Mr. Segun Omoworare who spoke on behalf of the late Aderemi’s grandchildren described the late monarch as an epitome of both traditional and political leadership.

Speaking on behalf of the Ife traditional council, the Obalufe of Ife, Oba Idowu Adediwura extolled the late Aderemi particularly for opening Ile-Ife and its environs to immeasurable economic and social growth.

Earlier, Ooni Ogunwusi led members of the Aderemi family to lay wreath on the tomb of the late former Governor of the Western region as a mark of respect after which he led top dignitaries to inspect the White House built by Sir Aderemi in 1937.

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T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R Ëž LY 5, 2020

FEATURE Malami: Chief Law Officer Stamps His Authority As the only minister mentioned in the constitution, the position of Attorney General of the Federation and Ă“Ă˜Ă“Ă?ĂžĂ?Ăœ Ă™Ă? Ă&#x;Ă?ÞÓĂ?Ă? Ă?Ù×Ă?Ă? åÓÞÒ ĂœĂ™Ă–Ă?Ă? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ĂœĂ?Ă?ĂšĂ™Ă˜Ă?Ă“ĂŒĂ“Ă–Ă“ĂžĂ“Ă?Ă? ÞÒËÞ ĂœĂ?Ă›Ă&#x;Ă“ĂœĂ? Ă‹ ÞÙĂ&#x;Ă‘Ă’ ĂŒĂ‹Ă–Ă‹Ă˜Ă?Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă‹Ă?Þ˛ Ă’Ă? ĂšĂœĂ?Ă?Ă?Ă˜Ăž Ă™Ă?Ă?Ă&#x;ĂšĂ‹Ă˜ĂžËœ ĂŒĂ&#x;ĂŒĂ‹Ă•Ă‹Ăœ Ă‹Ă–Ă‹Ă—Ă“Ëœ Ă’Ă‹Ă? Ă?Ù×Ă? ÞÙ ĂžĂ?ĂœĂ—Ă? åÓÞÒ ÞÒÓĂ? Ă?ĂžĂ‹ĂœĂ• ĂœĂ?ËÖÓÞã Ă‹Ă? Ă’Ă? Ă‹Ă?Ă?Ă?ĂœĂžĂ? Ă’Ă“Ă? ÚÙåĂ?ĂœĂ?Ëœ Ă–Ă?Ă‹Ă Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă˜Ă™ Ă™Ă˜Ă? Ă“Ă˜ ĂŽĂ™Ă&#x;ĂŒĂž ÞÒËÞ ĂĄĂ’Ă?Ă˜ Ă“Ăž Ă?Ù×Ă?Ă? ÞÙ Ă—Ă‹ĘľĂ?ĂœĂ? Ă™Ă? Ă–Ă‹ĂĄËœ Ă’Ă“Ă? ÙʊĂ?Ă? Ă“Ă? ÞÒĂ? ĂœĂ?Ă?Ă?ĂœĂ?Ă˜Ă?Ă? ĂšĂ™Ă“Ă˜ĂžËœ ĂĄĂœĂ“ĂžĂ?Ă? Demola Ojo

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bout two weeks ago, the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Mr. Abubakar Malami (SAN), recommended to President Muhammadu Buhari, the sacking of the Acting Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr Ibrahim Magu. Malami, in a memorandum to the president, anchored his recommendation on several grounds, ranging from diversion of recovered loot to insubordination and misconduct.

Malami further included a shortlist of three candidates for consideration to replace Magu. The AGF’s letter to the president contained 22 weighty allegations that require the President’s decision on whether or not to send Magu’s name to the Senate for confirmation or to replace him.

Malami was concerned over discrepancies of figures in regard to recovered assets, and reported Magu of blatant display of arrogance and insubordination to him as supervising minister of the EFCC. An interesting take away from the above incident is the power and different responsibilities of the AGF’s office, with its many roles including the supervision of the EFCC. In a Buhari administration that consistently harps on anti-corruption, only a trusted lieutenant is fit for the job.

Loyal Lawyer

Long before he became Nigeria’s Minister of Justice in 2015, Malami served as a counsel and magistrate in Kebbi State, and more importantly, as national legal adviser of the defunct Congress for Progressive Change.

Buhari had contested and lost the 2011 presidential election under the banner of the CPC. It was his third failed attempt.

When he decided to challenge the result in court, Malami was one of only three lawyers that believed in his case and represented him, at a time when the job had little reward. It was a display of commitment and loyalty that would pay off years later.

Malami was actively involved in the formation of the All Progressives Congress in 2013, helping to facilitate the merger between the CPC, the Action Congress of Nigeria and the All Nigeria Peoples Party.

For those not familiar with his antecedents, his emergence as Attorney General was a bit of a surprise, considering the number and calibre of lawyers that scaled through the ministerial screening, with the likes of Babatunde Fashola (SAN), Udoma Udo Udoma, Lai Mohammed, Ibe Kachikwu and Geoffrey Onyeama, among others.

But Buhari, who had previously worked closely with Malami, knew his strengths and capacity, and appointed him Attorney General. At 48, he was the youngest minister in the cabinet. As chief law officer of the country, the responsibilities of the AGF are like no other in the Federal Executive Council.

The AGF has a special responsibility to be the guardian of the constitution, and a special role in advising the government to ensure that the rule of law is maintained and that government actions are constitutional.

He routinely advises the president, heads of ministries and agencies of government on all matters connected with the interpretation of the constitution.

But according to a former AGF, Mohammed Adoke, there is always a conflict of interest in being the AGF which has enormous responsibilities requiring independent thought, mind and direction, and the Justice Minister, who is an appointee of the president with the mandate to assist him in the discharge of his executive functions.

The blurred lines between these two roles is responsible for the recent criticism of Malami, when he administered the oath of office to Mai Mala Buni, Yobe governor, as the chairman of the caretaker committee of the All Progressives Congress (APC) at the Presidential Villa on June 24.

But Malami addressed those concerns, and said it is not out of place for him to administer oath of office on anyone, whether at the federal level, political office holder or to private individuals. “The office of the attorney general exercises dual functions inclusive of that of minister of justice which is a political and advisory function. Administration of justice is one of such functions... Within that context, it will not be out of place for an attorney general of the federation to administer an oath on any one inclusive of leadership of any political party whether he belongs to it or not,� he said.

Aiding the Revenue Drive

Using the legal tools at his disposal, Malami is been central in helping to generate revenue for the Buhari administration.

He is a key figure in the recovery of funds stolen during the

Malami administration of former head of state, Gen. Sani Abacha.

A total of $322 million was recovered from Switzerland in January 2018. These the funds were expended on the government’s Social Investment Project. Another, $308 million was recovered from the Island of Jersey in collaboration with the USA. The funds, which are now domiciled with the National Sovereign Investment Authority, have been earmarked for projects for the Lagos—Ibadan Expressway; Abuja—Kano Expressway, and Second Niger Bridge.

Malami has also been at the forefront of negotiations seeking to recover as much as $62bn from international oil companies as income from production sharing contracts.

According to a document prepared by the AGF’s office, the energy companies failed to comply with a 1993 contract-law requirement that Nigeria receives a greater share of revenue when oil prices exceed $20 per barrel.

Still on revenue, Malami is a key member of the interministerial committee on recovery and audit of stamp duty.

During the inauguration of the committee on June 30 in Abuja, Malami explained the legal framework behind the new revenue drive, and did not hesitate to elucidate on the ministry’s powers. “The Stamp Duties Act empowers the Federal and State Government to impose, charge, and collect stamp duties in different circumstances. The Federal Government has the sole authority to impose, charge and collect Stamp Duties in respect of documents relating to matters between a Company and an individual, group or body of individuals. “The State Government on the other hand has authority to collect Stamp Duty in respect of documents executed between individuals or persons at such rates imposed or charged as agreed with the Federal Government,� he said.

Explaining that the FIRS Act is a complementary provision to the Stamp Duties Act. “The Federal Inland Revenue Service shall be the only competent authority to impose, charge and collect duties upon instruments specified in the Schedule to this Act if such instrument relates to matters

executed between a company and an individual, group or body of individuals.�

Malami bemoaned previous inadequacies in exercise of authority on stamp duty, and revealed that there was a backlog of revenue left unaccounted for, thereby transforming into a matter of recovery for the Federal Government of Nigeria. “Consequent upon this predicament, the Office of the Honourable Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice is compelled to activate mechanism for recovery in order to ensure that the Federal Government is not short changed,� he said It is a matter of public interest, he continued, that his office must ensure that all monies collected by various entities are recovered, accounted for and remitted to the appropriate account of the Government.

Malami noted that the Stamp Duty Act was categorical on recovery powers of AGF. This fact is buttressed by the provisions of Section 111 of the Stamp Duty Act which states that ‘‘all duties, fines, penalties and debts due to the Government of the Federation imposed by this Act shall be recoverable in a summarily manner in the name of the Attorney General of the Federation or the State.�

Recent occurrences seem to suggest that Malami is taking no prisoners in his dual duties of Attorney General and Mister of Justice. Now more than ever it seems, he is taking up a more prominent role in the government of President Buhari.

Malami certainly has his critics, which is expected to be directed at a public official in the sensitive position he occupies.

However he forcefully addresses criticism by referencing the law of the land, while staying dignified.

His reappointment as Minister of Justice for President Buhari’s second term reaffirmed the trust his principal has in him, and their longstanding relationship will, surely, come in handy as he continues to stamp his authority as Nigeria’s chief law officer.

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T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R Ëž LY 5, 2020

INFOTRAK COVID-19 POLL NIGERIA MEDIA... INFOTRAK COVID-19 POLL NIGERIA MEDIA...

With Covid-19, Nigerians Want FG to Focus on Food Security, Tackle Poverty Obinna Chima

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survey has shown that majority of Nigerians would like the federal government to focus on preventing the spread of the Covid-19 as well as ensuring food security and poverty eradication as a matter of priority.

This was disclosed in a poll that was sponsored and conducted by Infotrak Research and Consulting Nigeria. The survey was conducted between April 28th and May 3rd, 2020. Interviews were conducted through Computer Assisted Telephone Interviews (CATI). A sample of 1,000 respondents was interviewed to represent Nigeria’s adult population and the poll covered the six geo-political zones of Nigeria. It generated 99 per cent response rate.

Infotrak is a professional research company that was founded in 2004 following the vision of the founder to provide the Pan-African market with suitable information solutions

required to sustain the needs of the evergrowing economies While 66 per cent of the respondents want government to tackle the spread of the deadly virus, 60 per cent stated that there was a need to focus on food security and poverty. In addition, the respondents also identified unemployment (29%); corruption (27%); high cost of living (26%); insecurity/ insurgency (19%); access to healthcare (14%) and poor infrastructure (6%) as areas requiring attention. “While most Nigerians are quite well versed with the prescribed protective measures for safeguarding against the Covid-19, some knowledge gap still exists,� it stated.

For instance, the survey pointed out that 39 per cent of Nigerians think the threat of the virus was being exaggerated; 32 per cent think it’s better to take their families to the village to protect them from Covid-19, and 22 per cent of Nigerians think everyone who contracts Covid-19 dies.

Further, the findings of the survey showed

that 30 per cent of the respondents believe that Covid-19 cannot kill; 27 per cent think the vulnerable groups like the old, youth and people with pre-existing conditions can’t contract Covid-19 and 22 per cent think that drinking of alcohol can prevent one from contracting the virus.

Also, 18 per cent of the respondents stated that the virus is a disease for the rich, while 15 per cent believe that black people and Africans cannot contract the virus. “Despite the increase in Covid-19 cases in Nigeria, an overwhelming majority of Nigerians feel that they are unlikely to contract Covid-19, suggesting that most people feel removed from the pandemic. “Half of Nigerians; 50 per cent, think that the worst is behind us with regards to the Covid-19,� it added.

On March 30, President Muhammadu Buhari officially addressed Nigerians on the existence of Covid-19 in the country and urged citizens to take the necessary precautionary measures to safeguard their health.

He also imposed a lockdown in Lagos and

Ogun States as well as the Federal Capital Territory for 14 days with exemption of only essential services. He had stressed the need for Nigerians to stay at home and maintain social distancing to prevent the spread of the virus.

The president had also announced palliative care programme to the most vulnerable citizens through the Ministry of Social Development to support them during the lockdown period.

He further addressed the nation on 13th of April, announcing that due to the continued spread of the virus, the lockdown had been extended for another period of 14 days and that beneficiaries of the social welfare packages would be increased to cover more households of the most vulnerable on government’s economic stimulus programme aimed at cushioning the negative impact of the pandemic.

Since then, the president, through his Presidential Task Force, has continued to announce measures to ease the lockdown so as to preserve lives and livelihoods.

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JU ͽ˜ ͺ͸ͺ͸ ˾ THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER

INTERNATIONAL The Eco and the New Francophone-Anglophone Rivalry: Addressing the Impending Dislocation of the ECOWAS

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he Africa Radio, Mantes La Jolie, in France, organised an international debate on the ‘risque de dislocation de la CEDEAO autour du projet Eco,’ that is, on ‘The Danger of Dislocation of the ECOWAS as a result of the Eco Project.’ The debate took place on Tuesday, 30 May, 2020 at 5 pm Nigerian time. The one-hour programme, anchored by Francis Laloupo, focused main attention on the divisions within the ECOWAS, with particular emphasis on Nigeria’s hostility towards the take-off of the project with effect from July 1, 2020. Another emphasis was placed on Nigeria’s border closure and insecurity with its attendant implications.

In this regard and without jot of doubt, there have been campaigns, more of calumny, against Nigeria’s policy stand in the Francophone world. However, and perhaps more interestingly, the three main discussants addressed the issues dispassionately.

Edgar Gnansounou, Professor at the Federal Polytechnic in Lausanne and author of En finir avec le franc des colonies françaises d’Afrique, published in 2012 by L’Harmattan in Paris, made it clear that there was good logic in the position of Nigeria.

The position of Ebenezer Okpokpo, a French-trained lawyer and member of the Nigeria-France Association, is not different, While Professor Gnansounou tried to underscore an already existing Eco currency agenda, as distinct from that of the ECOWAS, Ebenezer Okpokpo traced some of the problems to rivalry. I was also a panelist. I found the topic and discussion quite interesting, especially in light of the publications of Professor Daniel Bach, a French but an Oxford-trained scholar, on the relationships between the Anglophones and Francophones in West Africa Without any whiff of doubt, Africa’s foreign relations is largely driven by two main factors: quest for continental political unity and economic development. In the pursuit of political unity, the 1991 Abuja Treaty Establishing the African Economic Community was done. One cardinal objective of the treaty is to facilitate economic integration, especially through strategic cooperation.

It was mainly for this purpose that the United Nations’ conception of a region was redefined.

In the eyes of the United Nations, Africa constitutes a region.

It divided it into five sub-regions. On the cntrary, African leaders reconceptualised it in the reverse order to fast-track continental integration by considering United Nations’ sub-regions as regions, while, at least, any two states that unite to cooperate in a region will constitute a sub-region. This is the provision of Article 1, paragraphs (d) and (e) of the Abuja Treaty. It is within the context of the pursuit of the objective of regional integration that the quest for a common currency, which has become a critical centrifugal issue in the West African region, should be explained and understood.

And true enough again, the West African region is made up of Francophone, Anglophone and Lusophone countries, in terms of linguistic typology. The Francophone are numerically in the majority in terms of state sovereignty. They number eight: Benin, Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea Conakry, Mali, Niger, Senegal, and Togo. The Anglophones are five in number: Ghana, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Nigeria and The Gambia. The Lusophones are two: Guinea Bissau and Cape Verde. When critical issues are raised and it comes into voting, the .Francophone easily count on their numerical majority. In most cases, when the issues involve French colonialism, Guinea Bissau was always on the side of the Anglophones, meaning six against seven.

One major point, however, is that, in terms of de facto politics, Nigeria’s demographic strength, its size of market, its factor of not only being the biggest economy in West Africa, but also in Africa, also mean that Nigeria’s policy stand cannot simply be set aside with a stroke of the pen. Put differently, the Francophone majority cannot always have its way without factoring the interests of Nigeria into its own strategic calculations. This is one important dynamic of Nigeria’s relationship with Francophone West Africa.

And more notably is the factor of France. On the one hand, Nigeria’s main policy stand vis-à-vis France is the nonpreparedness to allow the use of the Francophone immediate

VIE INTERNATIONALE with

Bola A. Akinterinwa Telephone : 0807-688-2846

e-mail: bolyttag@yahoo.com

Mahamadou-Issoufou, ECOWAS Chairman neighbours by France against Nigeria’s interests bilaterally, plurilaterally and multilaterally. The same is very true of France’s policy on Nigeria. Consequently, the controversy surrounding the Eco currency cannot be separated from this consideration. In other words, why is the Eco a subject of controversy and a critical factor of regional disunity with the potential to dislocate the regional organisation set up in Lagos in 1975? What prompted President Muhammadu Buhari of Nigeria to warn against the possible dislocation of the ECOWAS?

The Eco as a Problem

The genesis and exegesis of the Eco should be explained at both the levels of the Anglophones and the Francophones.

It is useful to note that the Francophones started integration efforts before the making of the ECOWAS in 1975. At the level of West Africa, the Francophones have been using the CFA (Communauté Financière Africaine, meaning African Financial Community) franc since 1945, thanks to the French colonial administration and policy of assimilation. Even though the adoption of the CFA franc has some advantages both for France and the Francophones, particularly in terms of making it strong with its fixed parity with the euro, there is no disputing the fact that the CFA franc is at the bottom of the current Eco controversy for which the Francophones are now being held responsible and to which we shall return hereafter.

The Francophones established the Communauté Economique de l’Afrique de l’Ouest (CEAO), that is, West African Economic Community (WAEC) on 21 May 1970 in Bamako, Mali, following a 1967 meeting of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa in Accra, Ghana. At the meeting, the Union douanière économique des Etats de ‘Afrique de l’ouest (Customs Union of West African States, CUWAS), which was founded on 9 June 1959, an Accra Protocol was agreed to in which the CUWAS was reorganised and its new name, CEAO, adopted later on 21 May 1970.

One of the objectives of the CEAO was the development of a

harmonious and balanced development in the areas of economic integration, especially agriculture, cattle breeding, fisheries, industry, transportation, communications and tourism. The currency for economic and commercial exchanges remained the CFA franc. However, with the increasing pressure on the West African Monetary Institute (WAMI) to come up with a common currency that will be applicable to the whole region, the Francophones are compelled to espy more closely the future of the CFA franc, and especially in light of the declining French support and European Union policies.

In this regard, the conditionalities of the CFA are considered by the Anglophones to be detrimental to the collective interest of regional integration. For example, The CFA franc was created on December 26, 1945 and comprises 14 users: on the one hand, 8 Francophone countries in West Africa (Benin, Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea Bissau, Mali Niger, Senegal and Togo) all of which have the UEMOA as their Central Bank, and, on the other hand, six member-States (Cameroon, Central Africa, Congo, Gabon, Equatorial Guinea and Chad) of the CEMAC (Communauté Economique et Monétaire de l’Afrique Centrale, that is, Central African Economic and Monetary Community), as their own Central Bank: For both the UEMOA, founded on 10 January 1994 and the CEMAC, founded on 16 March, 1994, the CFA franc is pegged to the euro, and guaranteed by France, which also determines the parity of the currency. The first implication of pegging the CFA franc to the euro is that any sudden devaluation of it is ruled out. However, opposition to the common currency has become stiff for various reasons.

First, France’s own franc no longer exists; Second, there is no good justification for printing the CFA franc banknotes in France only. It can as well be printed in Africa; Third, there is no good basis for France to be managing the CFA franc; Fourth, even though the ‘insurance mechanism offered by the French Treasury to the franc zone’ only ‘makes it possible to insure against the failures of economic and political governance in Africa,’ the truth remains that the mechanism cannot ‘allow Africa to start its structural transformation.’ Caros Lopes, economist and former deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, has it that the mechanism is ‘obsolete.’ Fifth, for guaranteeing the CFA franc, France requires the Member States in the franc zone to deposit 50% of their foreign exchange reserves with the French Treasury.

These are the background complaints on which the current controversy surrounding the adoption of the Eco is predicated.

But before explicating the controversy, it is useful to seek understanding of the efforts and position of the Anglophones.

The Anglophones, like their Francophone counterparts, envisaged monetary cooperation and union in their constitutive agreement done in Lagos in 1975. As provided in Article 2(1) ‘it shall be the aim of the Community to promote cooperation and development in all fields of economic activity, particularly in the fields of industry, transport, telecommunications, energy, agriculture, natural resources, commerce, monetary and financial questions and in social and cultural matters. . .’ For the purposes of the foregoing, paragraph (h) of the same Article 2 requires Member States to ensure ‘the harmonisation required for the proper functioning of the Community of the monetary policies of the Member States.’

True enough, the WAMI came up with the coinage of ‘Eco’ as a possible name for the common currency in the ECOWAS region and the WAMI has been working towards it. The origin of the efforts is traceable to 20 April, 2000 when The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea Conakry, Liberia, Nigeria and Sierra Leone decided in Accra, Ghana, to create a second monetary zone in West Africa and to use the name ‘Eco’ for its currency. The Eco was panned to co-exist with the CFA franc and also to be merged together eventually. It was on this basis that the WAMZ would be established in 2002. Agreement was reached that every Member State should maintain a domestic exchange rate within a fixed range of 15% against the dollar. Although the long term objective was to eventually to merge the Eco with the CFA franc for the purposes of a common regional currency, this objective could not be achieved before the June 2019 ECOWAS Summit in Abuja.

And true, the Eco has become a political lull and can no longer be achieved with ease in light of an imminent dislocation of the ECOWAS.

of Dislocation In essence, the controversy over the Eco as a regional currency appears to be the crescendo of Dynamics Apparently because of re-election strategy, President the mutual suspicions on which the ties between Abuja andYamoussoukro are currently based. Alassane Ouattara punctured the understanding agreed to by It is a direct manifestation of Franco-Nigerian rivalry by proxy.True, the ECOWAS Council of Ministers, arguing that the ultimate relations between Nigeria and the Côte d’Ivoire have not always been easy bilaterally, plurilaterally decision is to be taken by the Assembly of Heads of States. He renamed the CFA franc and called it Eco. In this regard, and multilaterally. Bilaterally, the irritant is traceable to that country’s active support for the simply is it the Francophone Eco or the Anglophone Eco as agreed to Biafran secession. Plurilaterally, the rivalry between the ECOWAS, sponsored by Nigeria and the within the framework of the WAMI? Whatever is the case, this is Houphouet-Boigny-driven CEAO explains clearly the misunderstanding.The CEAO is dead but the background to the growing speculations about an impendthe CFA franc-turned Eco is in the making to resurrect it. Multilaterally, France is an immediate ing dislocation of the ECOWAS. The issue of Eco has sharply neighbour of Nigeria by the principle of propinquity.The interests of both countries must therefore divided the regional organisation.

A six-point dynamic currently constitutes the object of always be first reconciled for real progress to exist and fast-tracked. Unfortunately, however, possible dislocation of the ECOWAS in the near future. The this is difficult because the argument that there are no permanent enemies or friends, but first is colonial legacy and leadership mentality, which former permanent interests, is, at best, a myth as a geo-political evaluation of Franco-Nigerian policies President Jerry Rawlings of Ghana said is largely responsible for have clearly debunked it. True, ECOWAS without Nigeria is a vacuum. It should therefore be bad governance in Nigeria. prevented from self-dislocation (See concluding part on www.thisdaylive.com)

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THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ JULY 5, 2020

with ChidiAmuta e-mail:chidi.amuta@gmail.com

ENGAGEMENTS

See Who We Are Waiting For

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n important debate reared its head sometime ago and was quickly beaten back and literally buried under the rubble of Nigerian politics. On an official visit to the United Kingdom, President Buhari was addressing the Commonwealth Business Forum on 18th April, 2018 and was reported as having made some distasteful remarks about Nigerian youth to interviewers. He had remarked that Nigerian, youth most of whom had not bothered to receive an education, felt entitled to free social services simply because Nigeria is an oil producing country. These reservations were quickly summarized as the president branding all Nigerian youth as lazy and unprepared for leadership and responsibility. A combination of opposition political hawks and social media sharks tore the president to shreds even before his plane landed back in Abuja. Realising that those aged under 35 constitute the bulk of Nigeria’s surging demographics, the president who was heading towards a bumpy second term campaign beat a hasty retreat.

Earlier, some political creatures had knocked together a pseudo political movement- ‘Not Too Young to Run’. The underlying rationale was to draw some attention to the long standing alienation of Nigerian youth from high political office. The object was to lower the age limit for contesting for the offices of president, state governors and National Assembly membership. The movement aimed at making the point that the youth were as entitled as anyone else to run for the highest offices in the land. They even sponsored a bill which the National Assembly debated and passed. A downward adjustment of the age requirement for the highest offices in the land was effected. Mr. Buhari made sure that he gave his signing of the bill into law the fullest publicity if only to bury the noise of possible youth opposition. Soon afterwards, the frenzy of elections took over. There were hardly any youth candidates in the 2019 elections.

The central issue remains the role of youth in the political leadership of the nation. The argument has long subsisted that some of Nigeria’s problems of development have persisted because our political process has been reluctant to create avenues for the younger generation of Nigerians to ascend to positions of power and authority in the democratic dispensation.

With roughly half of the nation’s estimated population of 200 million aged under 35 years, there is a strong argument in support of greater participation of youth in political and civic duties.

The crises that we face-- of unemployment, mass poverty, food insecurity, technological backwardness and climate change challenges, insecurity and general disorder-- are mostly generational in the sense that it is the youth that stand to bear the brunt of their impacts. The future is their life time. A political and civic space dominated by an ageing generation is perhaps not in a position

to understand these issues in their modern contexts. Even more urgent is the need to emplace a political leadership in the country that is at once youthful, highly educated and equipped to interface with other world leaders in a world of breath taking technological developments.

In all of human history, the energy and idealism of youth has often been the driving force of national history. No nation can deny itself the benefit of this vital energy. Even in the transitional phases of Nigeria’s national history, young actors played defining roles. Yakubu Gowon was 32 when he became Nigeria’s head of state and led the nation through a trying civil war and subsequent national reconciliation. The Biafran leader, Odumegwu Ojukwu, was 34 when he declared the Biafran secession and led his people through a gruesome war of survival. At 33, Wole Soyinka staged a spirited opposition to the federal war effort and genocide against the peoples of Biafra for which he was detained for months on end.

At the age of 26, Alfred Diette Spiff became the founding military Governor of Rivers State and recorded landmark achievements in the development of the young state that were not surpassed until the civilian government of Governor Rotimi Amaechi.

Elsewhere in the world, young people have continued to make outstanding contributions to the leadership of different countries either for good or for ill. Jerry Rawlings was only 33 when he seized power in Ghana and led a revolution in public ethics and political process that changed the moral tone of Ghanaian politics for all time. The history of Libya cannot be complete without the landmark ascension and reign of the late Muammar Gadaffi, the young army officer who came to power at the tender age of 27 by overthrowing the monarchy and activating an Arab revolution of his own definition.

In a more contemporary context, the political power map of the world continues to be drawn and redrawn by relatively young players. Mohammed Bin Salman, the crown prince and de facto leader of Saudi Arabia is only 34, having assumed office at 31.

In North Korea, Kim Jong Un now 36, who has held the world in mortal dread of his hermit kingsom, was barely 30 when he succeeded his father.

Even in a world ruled by the triumph and prevalence of partisan democracy and politics, we are witnessing the rise of an increasing number of young politicians at the helm of affairs in major democracies. Emmanuel Macron swept to the French presidency at the age of 38. Finland is led by the 34 year old Sauli Niinisto.

Iceland’s Gudni Johanesson is 44 while Sebastian Kurz won election to become the leader of Austria at the age of 33. New Zealand’s Jazinda Arden is only 39 while El Salvador’s Nayib Bukele is a mere 38. Ethiopia’s new Nobel Peace Prize winning prime minister Abiy Ahmed is just 43. The examples of a youth take over of leadership of major countries keeps multiplying

around the world.

In the Nigerian context, we see an unrelenting vice grip of the commanding heights of political power and authority by an ageing breed of politicians. The median age of Nigeria’s political leadership is above 65. While this infamy rages, there is a lively debate about the civic orientation and political education of our youth.

The prevalent value system of our youth is ruled now by a dangerous obsession with money and material objects. To arrive is to thrive in fraud, epic corruption and wanton ostentation. The career aspirations of a good number of Nigerian youth is in fields that may not ultimately positively affect the larger society. They want to be DJs, drinking lounge owners, twerk artists, strip club entertainers, musicians of instant hit success, internet fraudsters and even bandits and gangsters. In their new parlance, to ‘blow’ is to suddenly emerge from the obscurity of desperate penury into instant wealth of a magnitude that will dazzle the imagination of even the most adventurous entrepreneur. Blame the prevailing season of anomie in which there are no opportunities for positive identification. Blame it on the decay of the family and the collapse of the community and the serial failure of leadership. The line of blame can elongate but the reality confronts us with frightful prospects.

Of course, the vast majority of Nigerian youth would ordinarily ply a more honourable route. They want to be respectable professionals, dedicated workers if they can find jobs and responsible citizens in general if we can show them worthy role models.

But those are becoming rare. The crass monetization of our politics has placed a roadblock on the path of youth who may want to aspire to a role in the civic and political spaces.

In a democracy, political power does not shift along generational lines on its own accord. Youth who want political power and relevance will need to struggle for it within the context of existing or new party structures. But first, there needs to be a critical mass of youth with a nationalistic political consciousness to power and drive a pan- Nigerian political movement. That movement already has the demographic advantage of the youth bulge. But even then, a pan -Nigerian youth political movement needs to cut through the nasty barbed wires of geo politics, ethnicity, primordial allegiances and decadent feudal loyalties.

A generational revolution in our political space can only come about through increased political education, consciousness building and the emergence of political parties in which the youth occupy the commanding heights. Most importantly, nation building must resume and replace the current frenzy of state building which merely places institutions like littered furniture all over the geographical space while citizens feel homeless and hopeless, devoid of a sense of nation being.

NEWS

NAF: War on Boko Haram Will End Before December Tobi Soniyi in Lagos and Michael Olugbode inMaiduguri TheNigerianAirForce(NAF)yesterdaydisclosedthattheongoing war on Boko Haram, an Islamist terrorist organisation based in Northeast would be brought to an end before December 2020.

Shortly after the NAF announced its ambitious plan, the United Nations’ Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mr EdwardKalloncalledonthefederal governmenttoreinforcethesafety and security of all humanitarian

workers in the Northeast.

The Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar disclosedtheplantoendtheBoko Haraminsurgencybeforetheend oftheyearinMaiduguriyesterday whileaddressingtroopsoftheAir Task Force of Operation Lafiya Dole.

The Northeast has been the centre of terrorist operations since 2009 with no fewer than 27,000 killed, some two million people displaced and communities destroyed in Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Taraba

and Yobe States.

With these costs of fighting the insurgency, Abubakar said the NAF would ensure that no individual or group of individuals undermined the territorial integrity of Nigeria, saying the NAF “has the mandate to end the war on terrorism in the Northeast.”

He said: “We must therefore keep working hard. I am very sure at least, before the end of this year or latest by the end of this year, we will be rounding up this operation.

“So,worktowardsthistarget.Be assuredthattheNAFwillcontinue to support you. The Commander has adequately briefed me. I have also been monitoring what you have been doing in the last few months, starting with Operation LongReachIandOperationLong Reach II. “We are satisfied. We are very excited that you are making substantial progress to eliminate theBokoHaraminsurgencyinthe Northeast, so that our people can gobacktotheirfarmsandlivetheir normal lives.”

He, therefore, urged the troops “toensurethateverythingisbeing donetoensurethatNortheastand Nigeria is secured. On our part at the NAF Headquarters, I want to assureyouthatwewillcontinueto supportyouroperations,notonly in terms of training you require, theequipmentyourequire,butall thewelfarerequirementsthatyou needinordertomakeyoueffective in your assigned task.”

He revealed that the NAF had got excellent support from the federal government, noting that ithadnothadsuchtypeofsupport

in many years.

In the last few years, the air force chief explained more than 22 aircraft were procured while delivery of 16 more is currently awaited.

He pointed out that without theaircraftinthepresentsecurity challenges, the security situation in the country would have been unimaginable.

Abubakar said: “Assuming these aircraft were not acquired, what would have been the situation? That is what we keep forgetting.”

Compensate Demolished Churches or Face Legal Action, Group Tells A’Ibom Govt

FamilyAccusesLagosofAcquiringLandforPrivateUse

Seriki Adinoyi inJos

The Elejigbo family of Langbasa community in Eti-Osa Local Government Area has accused the Lagos State Government of illegally demolishing its property at Silverpoint Estate and acquiring its land for private use.

The counsel to the family, Mr. Tayo Omosehin made the allegation at a news conference he held recently after the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development demolished the family’s property for alleged illegal construction.

Omosehin explained that the state government carried out the demolition exercise, citing

An international non-governmental organisation, Equity International Initiative (EII), has asked the Akwa Ibom State Government to compensate churches that its task force on COVID-19 demolished or face legal action for alleged breach of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

The Country Director of the organisation, Mr. Chris Iyama gave the ultimatum in a statement yesterday, asking the state government to apologise and compensate all the affected churches within seven days.

Iyama said: “It is sad to say

that the COVID-19 Task Forces ofAkwa-Ibom,Ogun,Lagosand FCThavegonebeyondtheirlimit by taking laws into their hands.

“We are worried about the use of force which has caused the untimely death of innocent citizens of respective states at a time Nigeria is experiencing hardship.”

Iyama said section 38(1) of the 1999 constitution (as amended) guaranteed that every person “shall be entitled to freedom of thought conscience and religion including freedom to change religion or belief and (either in community with others and in

public or private) to manifest and propagate his or her belief in worship, teaching, practice and observance.”

Contrary to the provisions of the constitution, the country director said the Akwa-Ibom state government and the COVID-19 Task Force “breached the constitution by attacking worshippers on June 21.

“EIIiscallingonthestategovernment to refrain from further demonising,embarrassingand shameful acts which grossly violate the right of freedom of worshipasenshrinedinSection 38(1) of the 1999 constitution.”

Eddie Alegbe

the failure of the family to obtain building permit and drawing approval before embarking on project development.

He described the action of the state government as unlawful, claiming that the action contravened the Lagos State Urban and Regional Planning and Development Law, 2005.

Under the law, the counsel said: “If an individual did not obtain a building permit before he embarked on his project development or building construction, the state government will serve him notice to enable him comply with the law.

“If the individual refuses to obtain and his building fails

integrity test, you will be asked to pull it down yourself. If he does not demolish the building by himself, the government will demolish it and you will bear the cost of the demolition.”

He said the occupants of the estate were not served with any notice before officials of the state government carried out the demolition exercise.

He explained that the family released the land “to the state government for the purpose of growing forestry. Subsequently, the state government deviated from the original purpose and gave 20 hectares of the land to the Nigerian Institute of Oceanography and Marine Research.

Sunday July 5, 2020

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Price: N400

MISSILE

Saraki to APC

“Since the arrest of those cybercrime suspects and the subsequent damage to the image and the economy of Nigeria as well as the crisis it created for Nigerians engaged in lawful businesses across the world, the ruling party had been muted.” – Former Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki reacting to the call by the All Progressives Congress for anti-graft agencies to investigate him over alleged link to a suspected cyber-criminal, Ramon Olorunwa Abbas (a.k.a. Hushpuppi).

SIMONKOLAWOLE And Four The Politics of Electricity Tariff Other Things…

SIMONKOLAWOLELIVE!

simon.kolawole@thisdaylive.com, sms: 0805 500 1961

W

hether we like it or not, the issue of electricity tariff is a touchy one.

In the power sector reform, we are always talking about power generation, transmission and distribution. We are always talking about how many megawatts we are producing or want to produce. We have also regularly discussed the cost of gas and the infrastructure to get it to the power plants. We talk about the ability of the national grid to transport the power generated to the distribution points. We, as end users, always complain about estimated billing. But a critical element — the tariff — is the most ignored item on the agenda. Yet, the sector cannot be economically viable as long as the tariffs we pay do not cover the cost of generating, transmitting and distributing power. That’s the tough truth.

In my previous article, I did argue that while the decision of the National Economic Council (NEC) to audit the distribution companies (DisCos) is welcome, there are bigger problems in the Nigerian power supply industry. We need to conduct a wholesale technical and forensic audit of the entire sector so that we can pinpoint where we are, what is wrong and how we can get out of the darkness. Definitely, the problems and challenges are not limited to the DisCos, despite our misgivings with them.

In the article, I also complained about the poor state of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) — a clear clog in the wheel — as well as the extravagant agreements we signed with some generation companies (GenCos) and gas companies. There is trouble in every corner.

I pointed out that while we were signing away our national treasury to some GenCos and gas companies, we knew very well that TCN did not have the capacity to evacuate the power to be generated and the DisCos could not collect revenue transparently. It’s like asking a bakery to produce 10,000 loaves of bread daily with a deal to pay for all — whether or not you are able to transport them. But your truck can only transport 4,000 loaves and your vans can only distribute that much.

Now, shouldn’t you get a truck that can take 10,000 loaves from the bakery as well as the vans to distribute them? Today, GenCos can produce more than 10,000mw but TCN can only take 5,000mw or less. And we have to keep paying for power generated even when we can’t use it!

The Azura power that has become an albatross on our neck is a depressing case in point. We contracted to pay them $30 million every month when we knew TCN did not have the capacity to wheel the power produced. We undertook to pay the 450mw-plant $1.2 billion if we pull out of the agreement. For the life of me, $1.2 billion will build a new, 1,000mw plant! Who did this to Nigeria? Some people will have to answer for this someday. OPL 245 was granted to Malabu Oil and Gas Ltd in 1998 but 22 years after, people are still in court explaining their roles. Shell and ENI are undergoing criminal trial in Italy over the oil block. Someday, investigations will be launched into the making of this Azura shackle and the key actors will, hopefully, be made to pay the price.

I am told that Azura needed the guarantee to build the plant since we were the ones that desperately needed power, hence the millstone we have hung on our necks. This is a very condescending argument — as if Azura was

Mr Sale Mamman, Minister of Power doing Nigeria a favour. When did capitalists start doing you a favour by investing in your country? I got this text from a friend last week: “I attended this training some years ago and the facilitator, a European, told us that Azura is the most expensive generation project he had ever seen. He shared numerous models showing how the costs are determined. He said even in the Middle East where they have money, they didn’t spend close to what we are doing with Azura.” And we undertook to pay $1.2 billion if we exit. Nigeria!!!

In addition, we need to discuss the naughty issue of electricity tariff as I conclude my take on the politics of the power sector. I must say that I agree with the suspension of the increase in tariffs which was to take off on July 1. I support it not because I think an increase was not necessary. There is no doubt that the federal government cannot continue to spend the kind of money it is spending to sustain the sector — over N1 trillion as “payment guarantee” in the last five years for power that most Nigerians are basically not enjoying.

If we had pumped the loan into education or health, we would not have seen a significant improvement. However, the new tariff would have come at a bad time — when we are still battling the economic impact of the coronavirus disease.

Lest we forget, Nigerians were promised two months of free electricity when the pandemic started. That was in April. It seems we have all forgotten now. I knew it was unrealistic.

For one, there is nothing like free electricity; somebody will pay for it to be free for others.

Where would the money come from? The federal government itself needs palliatives, with oil prices tumbling and FIRS desperately and comically begging companies to pay tax in advance. Nevertheless, if we are unable to give free electricity to Nigerians, we should at least not compound matters by making them pay higher tariffs during an economically devastating pandemic. I, therefore, believe that it makes sense for the proposed increase to be deferred for a while so that poor Nigerians can breathe a bit.

Yet, the truth is that we have been playing politics with tariff for too long. When the power sector reform was set in motion by President Olusegun Obasanjo in 2005, one key element was the multi-year tariff order (MYTO) — designed to gradually price power appropriately while recognising that all fingers

are not equal. Residential was separated from commercial, and even residential was further stratified. Those living in areas considered to be low income would pay the lowest tariff while those in affluent neighbourhoods would pay the highest in the residential band. What has happened over the years, unfortunately, is that any talk about tariff always generates negative emotions among the masses, making it politically volatile to review the MYTO. Let us be clear, though: it is not as if Nigerians do not have a point when they resist tariff hike.

A common retort is: why should I pay for darkness? This is complicated by the failure to provide enough prepaid meters so that consumers can pay for only what they use. Post-paid metering, which allows for estimated billing, aka “crazy bill”, has created permanent tension and hostility between DisCos and customers.

The trust is not there, and the experience of unstable power and poor customer relations can only worsen matters. So why ask Nigerians to pay more for power when they are perpetually in darkness? Why should they pay more when they are already being charged for power that was neither supplied nor consumed? Nobody can wish this query away.

But this is an interesting debate and it depends largely on how we shape it. One side will ask: should customers continue to pay tariffs that cannot cover costs (much less provide funds for the necessary investment) and expect power to improve? The other side will respond: why not improve power supply first so that Nigerians will see reason to pay higher bills? The answer is somewhere in-between. The goal of the power roadmap, combined with MYTO, is to develop the infrastructure and environment that will improve power supply, and as supply improves, Nigerians will be asked to pay more. But when you have a falling exchange rate and unending technical and commercial losses (particularly power theft by fellow Nigerians), the entire industry will always be upside down.

When President Muhammadu Buhari came into office in 2015, the power supply industry was heading for a meltdown. Although we had improved significantly on generation with the various projects initiated by Obasanjo and completed (and privatised) by President Goodluck Jonathan, our transmission capacity was insufficient and the DisCos did not make the kind of investment needed to improve distribution. The government has provided payment assurance guarantee (PAG) in three tranches — N200 billion, N701 billion and now another N600 billion — to keep gas companies and the GenCos going. But we are paying way too much to some of the GenCos, TCN is not getting better and the DisCos are not generating enough revenue to sustain the industry.

The time has come to ask the critical question: when will the power industry be able to fend for itself? When the current PAG of N600 billion is finished, what next? When are we going to get out of this financial hole? We will agree at some point that the tariffs will just have to cover the costs. Good enough, Nigerians earning low income have already been protected under MYTO — so, they will always pay the lowest tariff. To address the general complaints of Nigerians, prepaid meters should be installed for all customers so that they will only pay for what they consume.

We also have to crack down on power theft.

People have to go to jail or pay heavy fines.

The sector needs greater transparency in the areas of cost and revenue. Let’s all put our money where our mouths are.

BELLIGERENT BELLO Governor Yayaha Bello, the drama queen presiding over the affairs of Kogi state, is a study in self-deceit. He is the only governor in Nigeria who is yet to accept the reality of COVID-19. Even Governor Ben Ayade of Cross River has stopped his Nollywood audition. After fooling himself with the “magic app”, Bello is now intimidating his citizens to steer clear of the “c” word. Health workers who wanted to protest on Wednesday were attacked in a “tatatatatata” fashion that reminded us of how the arrogant chap got re-elected as governor last year. We can only hope that he will realise the nonsense he is doing to endanger the lives of the people of Kogi state before it is too late. Tragic.

GHANA HIGH Times were when we compared Nigeria with advanced countries to show the lack of morality in public office in our country.

Sadly, we may not need to look very far anymore. Neighbouring Ghana is showing the way. Mr Carlos Ahenkorah, the deputy minister for trade and industry, resigned on Friday after breaching COVID-19 protocols.

He had visited a registration centre in his constituency before completing selfisolation after testing positive for the disease. Will that ever happen in Nigeria?

Please don’t get me started. Impunity is the order of the day in our beloved country. If a Nigerian minister resigns over a “simple” matter like that, we will call him a fool.

Pathetic.

MISSING RUDDER The lack of coordination in President Buhari’s government is too clear for the world to see. If the minister of power is not fighting with one MD or the other, the minister of communications will be sparring with an agency head on Twitter, and the SGF will be issuing circulars that will be ignored. Dr Chris Ngige, minister of labour, is now locking horns with the management of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF). He woke up on Thursday to say he had suspended them over “misappropriation and other gross misconduct” — only for the management to laugh it off and go to work on Friday. Never in the history of Nigeria have we witnessed these absurdities.

Embarrassing.

HUSH HUSH Hushpuppi, who became famous by flaunting obscene wealth on Instagram, will soon undergo trial in the US. He was arrested by the Dubai police and handed over to the FBI. He risks 20 years in jail for alleged internet scams. He allegedly swindling over 1.9 million victims in excess of N168 billion.

Ramoni Abbas, as he is officially known, was living large in Nigeria before relocating to Dubai. Many Nigerians are wondering why he was not arrested here. I think we should thank God instead. If it was in Nigeria, he could be sentenced to just six months imprisonment with an option of fine — probably N200,000 — “on compassionate grounds”. And he would start balling again.

Jokers.

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