SUNDAY 22TH AUGUST 2021

Nigeria’s External Reserves Hit $37bn with $3.5bn New SDRs Apex bank threatens to revoke MFBs' licences over fx transactions Seeks labour’s collaboration to grow economy Festus Akanbi, Kunle Aderinokun, Nume Ekeghe in Lagos, and James Emejo in Abuja

Nigeria’s foreign reserves will get a timely boost on Monday when the country’s share of $3.5billion from the $650 billion Special Drawing Rights (SDRs)

approved by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to boost global liquidity, matures for collection.

Consequently, the nation’s

foreign reserves currently put at $34billion will hit the $37billion threshold, which will boost the capacity of the Central Bank of Nigeria

(CBN) to fund higher volumes of external transactions and achieve a further convergence of the exchange rate around the I & E window.

This is coming as the CBN has threatened to revoke the operating licence of any Continued on page 8

Nigerians Spend N12.3tn on Petrol, Diesel in Six Years… Page 5 Sunday 22 August, 2021 Vol 26. No 9631

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Unite for Nigeria, Buhari Urges Future Leaders Deji Elumoye in Abuja and Ibrahim Shuaibu in Kano

CROWNING TSOLA EMIKO AS THE 21ST OLU OF WARRI...

The Uwangue of Warri Kingdom, Chief Gabriel Awala (left), crowning Utienyinoritsetsola Emiko as the new Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, at Ode Itsekiri, the ancestral home of Iwere people in Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State...yesterday

President Muhammadu Buhari has called on emerging leaders in the country to rid the nation of divisiveness and unite the people.

The president, in an address to the Emir of Bichi, Nasiru Ado Bayero, at his inauguration yesterday, read on his behalf by his Chief of Staff, Professor Ibrahim Gambari, said the “prevailing Continued on page 6

APC Chairmanship Battle Hots Up Akume, Al-Makura, Shettima, Yari, Adamu, others join race Chuks Okocha and Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja As the All Progressives Congress (APC) prepares for its national convention later in the year, following the nod received from the governors of the ruling party, many aspirants have intensified their lobby to succeed the Chairman of the National Caretaker and Extra-Ordinary Convention Planning Committee of the party, Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State, THISDAY has learnt.

Prominent among the APC chairmanship aspirants are a two-term governor of Zamfara State, Mr. Abdulaziz Yari; two-

term Governor of Nasarawa State, Senator Umaru Tanko Al-Makura; another two-term governor of the state, Senator Abdullahi Adamu; former Governor of Benue State and Minister of Special Duties and Inter-governmental Affairs, Senator George Akume; a former Governor of Borno State, Senator Ali Modu Sheriff; and another former Governor of the state, Senator Kashim Shettima.

A former governorship aspirant in Kwara State, Mr. Salihu Mustapha, is also in the race and is the youngest aspirant, while speculations Continued on page 5

NASIRU ADO BAYERO IS NEW EMIR OF BICHI...

Emir of Bichi, Alhaji Nasiru Ado Bayero (left), receiving staff of office from Kano State Governor, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, in Bichi, Kano State…yesterday

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MARITAL BLISS...

L-R: Father of the bride /Chairman of Quits Aviation Services, Dr. Samuel Iwuajoku; President, Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote; newlyweds, Ugochukwu Akpua and Adaaku; former Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki; and his wife Toyin, at the traditional wedding ceremony of Adaaku and Ugochukwu in Lagos...yesterday

Nigerians Spend N12.3tn on Petrol, Diesel in Six Years Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja Nigerians spent a whopping N12.3 trillion on the purchase of petrol and diesel in the last six years, an analysis of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC's) Monthly Financial and Operations Reports (MFOR), between April 2015 and April 2021, has shown.

This is coming as the country and other developing oil-producing nations have continued their efforts to discover more hydrocarbons,

despite the global campaign against fossil fuels, especially as the world races against net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

A THISDAY’s review of the contribution of the sale of diesel to the total consumption by the 36 states of the federation showed that it added less than five per cent, when compared with that of petrol, which on the average constituted about 95 per cent every year since 2015.

Nigeria currently imports 100 per cent of all refined products under an arrangement called

Direct-Sale-Direct-Purchase (DSDP), with all the refineries having packed up since around 2017.

Total revenues generated from the sales of white products for the period April 2015 to April 2016 stood at N740.16 billion where petrol contributed about 89.08 per cent of the revenues collected with a value of N659.35 billion for that year.

In that base month, the value of N79.50 billion was collected as sales revenue for white (refined) products sold by the

Petroleum Products Marketing Company (PPMC), a subsidiary of the NNPC, compared with N85.66 billion collected in the previous month.

In April the following year, a total sale of N199.11 billion was made on the petroleum products for white products by PPMC compared with N206.42 billion sold in the prior month of March 2017.

Total revenues generated from the sales of white products for the period April 2016 to April 2017 stood at N1.72 trillion,

where petrol contributed about 85.39 per cent of the total sales with a value of N1.472 trillion.

The analysis shows that a total sale of N347.79billion was made on the petroleum products for white products by PPMC in April 2018 compared with N184.02 billion sold in the prior month of March 2018.

In the same vein, total revenues generated from the sales of white products for the period April 2017 to April 2018 stood at N2.27 trillion, where petrol contributed about 88.12

per cent of the total sales with a value of N2.00 trillion.

About N261.36 billion was made on the sale of white products by PPMC in April 2019 compared to N174.62 billion sales in the previous month of March 2019.

In all, revenues generated from the sales of white products for the period April 2018 to April 2019 stood at N2.858 trillion, where petrol contributed about 91.84 per cent of the total sales

the newly defected governor Bello Matawale is going to be a major setback in his bid to lead the party at the national level.

APC members have also cited Yari's alleged consistent intransigence to the resolutions of the Buni-led Caretaker Committee on the leadership of the party in Zamfara State as his albatross.

Also, his case with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over alleged mismanagement of public funds running into billions of Naira, has become a sort of a moral burden on his neck.

Al-Makura is another political heavyweight in the race for the position of the National Chairman of APC. He enjoys the advantage of being a former Governor of the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) extraction and a serving Senator.

Sources within the ruling party said Al-Makura is one of the aspirants to watch due to the strong support he enjoys from the governor of his home state, Mr. Abdullahi Sule, who had publicly declared support for him.

However, his recent invitation by the EFCC over alleged mismanagement of multi-billion naira while he held sway as the Governor of Nasarawa State is an obstacle that could ruin his ambition.

Party sources said if the damning evidence presented against him by the petitioners from his home state is anything to go by, then the former governor may as well bid his ambition farewell as it is unlikely that the APC and especially President Muhammadu Buhari would accept anything short of a clean slate from the party's chairman.

Another former governor of Nasarawa State, Senator

Abdullahi Adamu, representing Nasarawa West senatorial district is also in the race.

Adamu is also a very competent and experienced politician and first civilian governor of the state.

A former minister and secretary of the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the then ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Adamu is as influential as any politician could aspire to be, and has been on the corridors of power for decades.

However, sources in the APC said his old age is counting against him.

Adamu also has to deal with the opposition at the home front as the governor of the state, Sule has thrown his weight publicly behind Al-Makura, Adamu's fiercest political rival in the state.

Another aspirant for the office of the Chairman of APC, Sheriff is an experienced political heavyweight and fighter, who led the PDP during its crisis.

Sheriff was elected as a Senator in 1999 on the platform of the All Peoples Party (APP).

In 2003, he defeated the sitting governor, Mala Kachalla, at the party primaries, and won the election on the platform of All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP).

It was the APP that changed its name to ANPP. Sheriff was re-elected as governor in 2007.

He is a founding member of the APC but he defected to the PDP in 2014.

He later became the national chairman of the PDP after the party lost the 2015 elections. His leadership was however marred by crisis and the party became factionalised.

The Supreme Court later declared the other factional leader and former Governor of Kaduna State, Mr. Ahmed Makarfi, as the

authentic chairman of the PDP. In April 2018, Sheriff returned to the APC. No doubt, the former governor of Borno State is a crafty and dogged politician with a very deep pocket to prosecute any political ambition.

However, committed APC chieftains are said to be uncomfortable with the alleged ‘spoiler’ role he played in the PDP and his inconsistency, which makes him switch political parties at will.

He was also alleged to have sponsored the terrorist group, Boko Haram Islamic sect, an allegation he had dismissed as “rubbish”.

Shettima is another two-term Governor of Borno State and former Chairman of the Northern Governors’ Forum.

These positions he had held may count in his favour as he contests for the chairmanship of the ruling party.

His cordial relationship with the governor of his home state, Prof. Babagana Zulum, is also an added advantage to his efforts to realise his ambition to lead the APC. However, whatever achievements he recorded as Borno State governor were blighted by the Boko Haram terrorists.

Mustapha is not only the youngest of the contenders but one of the two in the race who is neither an incumbent nor a former governor or Senator.

Nevertheless, the Kwara-born businessman brings to the table a robust experience in party administration that spanned decades.

He also has a vast political network within the progressive fold.

He is also a well-known longterm political ally of President

Muhammadu Buhari, starting from his days in the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) to the days of the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), where he served as a Deputy National Chairman under the Tony Momoh-led NWC of the party between 2011 and 2013.

Mustapha also has grassroots influence in his home state and a rich network of friends across the country.

Mustapha is said to be running a campaign that appeals to both the young and the old members of the party.

Codenamed B.R.I.D.G.E.S, Mustapha's campaign seeks a return to the party's founding ideals of progressivism and internal democracy.

However, he has never held a top political position like governor or member of the National Assembly and this may count against him.

A former governor of Benue State under the platform of the PDP, Akume is also said to be in the race.

Akume, a two-term governor was re-elected Senator for Benue North-West in the April 2011 elections, on the platform of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN).

Since he lost the senatorial seat to Senator Emmanuel Yisa OrderJev of the PDP in the 2019 general election, his political fortunes at the home front have nosedived considerably and this led to a total loss of control of the state by the APC. But his experience as a twoterm governor, and his current position as a serving minister in President Buhari's cabinet, will boost his chances.

However, APC sources have described him as being 'docile' and 'laid back' in his campaign for the party’s chairmanship.

Continued on page 10

APC CHAIRMANSHIP BATTLE HOTS UP are rife that a former Governor of Gombe State and senator representing Gombe Central senatorial zone, Senator Danjuma Goje, is also in the race to succeed Buni.

Despite the Supreme Court’s judgment on the Ondo State governorship election, which put a question mark on Buni’s dual role as governor and chairman of the ruling party, coupled with multiple litigations challenging his

position, APC governors had given the Buni-led committee a go-ahead to organise the party’s local government and state congresses, as well as national convention.

The latest in the gale of litigations challenging Buni’s chairmanship of the APC was filed last week by Mr. Samuel Irabor on behalf of 100 members of the party, urging the Federal High Court in Abuja to dissolve the Buni-led 13-member caretaker committee of the APC. The plaintiffs argued that the committee falls short of the statutorily required 24 members that must be spread across not less than two-thirds of Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.

In the suit marked, FHC/ ABJ/CS/938/2021, the plaintiffs also told the court that the chairmanship of the caretaker committee by a sitting governor holding dual executive offices is prohibited by Section 183 of the Nigerian Constitution and Article 17(4) of the APC Constitution.

It is also the contention of the plaintiffs that the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Abubakar Malami, lacked the legal backing to administer Oath of Office to Buni as caretaker chairman of the party.

However, despite all the

suits challenging the legality of the Yobe State governor’s appointment as the chairman of his party, the APC governors had thrown their weight behind the Buni-led committee to organise the national convention.

Though the ruling party had on many occasions clarified that it had not zoned the presidency and other offices ahead of the 2023 general election, all the aspirants for the party’s chairmanship position are from the North.

This has rekindled the hope for the emergence of the party’s presidential candidate from the southern part of the country.

Yari, a two-time Governor of Zamfara State, had indicated his interest to run for the office of the National Chairman of the APC. He had after the completion of his two-term in office as governor in 2019, decided to retire to the Senate Chamber of the National Assembly like most governors do by contesting a senatorial seat.

However, the Supreme Court judgment which nullified all the elections won by the APC in the state truncated his ambition to retire to the red chamber.

Yari is believed to be highly competent and experienced with wide contacts as a former governor and former Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF).

However, his alleged highhandedness in the running of affairs of the APC, while he held sway as the governor of Zamfara State, which ultimately led to the loss of the state to the opposition Peoples Democratic (PDP) is said to be working against his ambition to lead the ruling party.

Similarly, the emerging political supremacy battle in the state, where he has locked horns with

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Emiko Crowned as 21st Olu of Warri, Reverses Grandfather’s Curse Sylvester Idowu in Warri The 37-year-old, Utienyinoritsetsola Emiko was yesterday crowned as the 21st Olu of Warri at Ode Itsekiri, the ancestral home of Iwere people in Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State.

The new Oba was crowned at exactly 3.28 p.m. at a colourful ceremony attended by dignitaries from across the globe.

The 21st Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, has also reversed an ancestral curse placed on Nigeria by his grandfather, Olu Erejuwa II, as a result of alleged injustice meted out to him.

Erejuwa II was Olu of Warri from 1951 to 1964 and from 1966 to 1986.

He was the 18th Olu of Warri Kingdom with the title: Ogiame Erejuwa II. The new Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, yesterday reversed his grandfather’s curse during his coronation.

His words: “As the spiritual, cultural, political, and traditional ruler of this land, I, Ogiame Atuwatse III, the 21st Olu of Warri, the first son of Olu Atuwatse II, the grandson of and direct descendant of Olu Erejuwa II, who was offended on this throne, hereby reverse the curse placed over this land.

“In its place, I release forgiveness and healing to the Federal Government of Nigeria whose might was used to propagate that offence; and I

decree unprecedented and an uncommon peace, prosperity, progress, and development upon this land.

“I bring down the government of heaven unto this land and I direct it to flow as a course that can neither be sabotaged nor slowed, stopped.

“It goes out as a strong ripple effect emanating from this kingdom to the rest of the Niger Delta, to the rest of the Nigerian nation, and even to the African continent.”

Deputy Senate President, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, and Minister of State, Labour, and Employment, Mr. Festus Keyamo (SAN), represented President Muhammadu Buhari at the event.

Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Hon. Idris Wase; Kebbi State Governor, Alhaji Bagudu; Deputy Governor of

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has given reasons for the exclusion of the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from the revised list of candidates for the Anambra State governorship election.

INEC had on Thursday, released a revised list of candidates for the Anambra State governorship poll, scheduled to hold on November 6, 2021, without any candidate for the PDP. The commission had also excluded the PDP from the first list released on July 16.

Justifying the INEC’s action on Friday night, the commission’s National Commissioner, Mr. Festus Okoye, disclosed that the name of the governorship candidate uploaded to the commission’s portal was different from the name affirmed by the court.

Speaking during an interview with a national TV, Okoye noted that an Appeal Court had ruled that the commission should not publish the name of any PDP candidate until the determination of the suit.

On July 19, an Anambra High Court had ordered INEC to recognise Mr. Ugochukwu Uba as the party’s candidate, against Valentine Ozigbo, the preferred candidate of the party’s National

address was delivered by Omo-Agege, expressed the confidence that the new monarch will bring the expected peace and development, not only to Warri Kingdom but Nigeria as a whole.

"I am here to felicitate with you on your ascension to the throne of your forefathers as the 21st Olu of Warri Kingdom.

"I pray God to bless you with wisdom and vision to rule and bring development to the people of Iwere kingdom and Nigeria as a whole," Buhari said.

Oni of Ife and Co-Chairman, National Council of Traditional Rulers, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, described the new Atuwatse 111 as a 21st millennium King.

"As a very dynamic lover of his people, from the throne of Oduduwa, we are very happy and excited as Oduduwa with the 21st Olu of Warri that was

crowned on 21st day of August in the 21st millennium.

"With the turnout today, it shows you are loved by your people. Indeed, you are loved by your people," Oni of Ife said.

He appealed to the new king to be the father of all Itsekiri, the good, the bad, and the ugly.

On his part, the Delta State Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa congratulated the new Olu of Warri and the entire Itsekiri for a hitch-free coronation.

Represented by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Festus Agas, Okowa praised the itsekiri for the glamour, candour, and coordination which brought colour to the event.

Meanwhile, the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has congratulated the Itsekiri Ethnic Nationality and expressed delight at the peaceful and grand coronation of the 21st

Olu of Warri.

PANDEF in a statement issued yesterday by its National Chairman, Senator Emmanuel Ibok Essien, extended the sincere felicitations and best wishes of the Board of Trustees, National and State Executive Committees, and Entire membership of PANDEF to His Majesty on ascending to the ancient throne of Olu of Warri.

While wishing the new Olu of Warri a successful and lasting reign, PANDEF expressed hope that the Olu would, with the benefit of his background; education, exposure and ingenuity, "provide the climate and setting to bolster the peace, unity and development of not only his Kingdom, the Itsekiri Nation and Delta State but the entire Niger Delta region and the country at large".

2023: PDP Accuses APC of Using EFCC to Hound Opposition Chuks Okocha in Abuja The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) yesterday accused the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led administration of President Muhammadu Buhari of using security agencies, particularly the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), to hound and harass PDP leaders in a renewed move to cow and weaken opposition ahead of the 2023 general election.

INEC Explains Exclusion of PDP from List of Anambra Guber Candidates Chuks Okocha in Abuja

Edo State, Mr. Phillip Shaibu; witnessed the historic occasion.

Oni of Ife, Arole Odua, Adeyeye Ogunwusi, and Oba of Benin, Ewuare 11 led many other traditional rulers, which added glamour to the event.

Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Lucky Irabor; Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo, and Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Oladayo Amao; Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen Faruk Yahaya, were also represented by Rear Admiral AO Ibuchukwu; Rear Admiral SS Lasah; Air Marshal EO Omoyibo; and Brig. Gen. A. Idris, respectively.

Before Olu was crowned, he had fulfilled all the traditional processes precluding the picking of the sword (Uda) that depicts the title of his reign Atuwatse III. In his speech, President Muhammadu Buhari, whose

Working Committee (NWC).

Speaking further, the INEC commissioner said the PDP would be added to the candidates’ list after the judgment of the suit at the appellate court.

“About the PDP, what happened was that the PDP as a political party uploaded the name and personal particulars of a particular candidate to our nomination portal, and that was the candidate whose name the commission published.

“Thereafter, there was also another court judgment ordering and directing the PDP as a political party to submit the name of a different candidate as the candidate of the party.

“The PDP didn’t submit the name of that particular individual, and we can’t publish the name unless the PDP submits the name of that individual.

“Thereafter, the matter went to the Court of Appeal and the Court of Appeal granted an accelerated hearing about the matter involving the PDP and its candidate, and then also asked the INEC not to publish the name of any of the candidate, pending the final determination of the matter before the Court of Appeal.”

Speaking on the multiple court judgments received by the commission on the Anambra election, Okoye said politicians were shopping for favourable court judgments.

In a statement issued by the National Publicity Secretary of the party, Mr. Kola Ologbondiyan, the main opposition party vowed that no amount of intimidation, harassment, and use of anti-graft agencies to clamp down on its leaders on trumped-up corruption charges, can cow or make the PDP surrender or abdicate the mandate already given to it by Nigerians to lead in the effort to rescue the country, come 2023.

"The APC knows that it has been rejected by Nigerians, having failed woefully and that there is no way it can win elections under any condition."

The main opposition party accused the APC of using the state apparatus of power to decimate and muzzle opposition and dissenting voices and foist an anti-democratic situation on Nigerians.

The PDP said part of this

heinous plot by the APC is to use the EFCC to bully, harass and hound PDP leaders, who are rallying Nigerians for the task ahead, to coerce them to abdicate the mandate of the people and join the APC. "This explains why the EFCC and other security agencies have been harassing PDP leaders such as former Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki; former PDP state governors, including the former governor of Abia State, Senator Theodore Orji; former governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Seriake Dickson; his Kano State counterpart, Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, and other key PDP leaders, on trumped-up charges, while their counterparts in the APC with similar allegations as well as others who had defected to the APC are moving around freely."

The main opposition party said

that "even corrupt officials of the APC administration, who are looting our national treasury, are doing so freely, under Buhari's watch."

PDP said it was aware of plots by the APC administration to use the EFCC to further harass outspoken PDP chieftains in a bid to muzzle the party, force a one-party state and deny Nigerians a voice to challenge the atrocities of the APC and its administration.

"We alert Nigerians of how many of our leaders are being harassed by emissaries of the APC in a bid to get them to compromise their stand against the corrupt and inept APC administration,” it said.

The main opposition party further stated that "if the APC had done well; if it had not devastated Nigerians and brought so much pain to the people; if

the APC had managed our national resources well instead of engaging in unbridled treasury looting, stealing over N15 trillion and turning our nation into the poverty capital of the world; if APC had not compromised our national security and threw our nation open to bandits, insurgents and terrorists, would it not be celebrating by now instead of this plot to force the people to submission? " PDP told the ruling party that its evil enterprise cannot bend its leaders or sway Nigerians to jettison their determination to oust the APC from office at all levels across the country, come 2023.

"Nigerians already know that they are saddled with a ‘failed President’ and his ‘failed APC’ for the remaining of his second and final term which will end in 2023."

CONDOLENCE VISIT...

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun (left), and Chairman, Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company, Mr. Tunde Ayeni, during a condolence visit to the governor over the death of his father, at Iperu…yesterday

UNITE FOR NIGERIA, BUHARI URGES FUTURE LEADERS circumstances of the nation impose a demand on leaders to display their qualities and work earnestly for continued peace and unity.”

The president said: “Your turbanning at a providential time like this in the history of our country when the prevailing socioeconomic conditions have created an opportunity for emerging leaders to display their qualities and work earnestly for continued peace and unity. ‘‘Your father, my friend the

late Emir of Kano, Ado Bayero, was a symbol of unity, not only within his kingdom but also within Northern Nigeria and the whole country.”

Going down memory lane, President Buhari said when we remember Ado Bayero, we remember unity, we remember simplicity and good leadership, a leader who devoted his life to unify the nation.

“I remember with nostalgia, the passion and commitment he always exhibited in the pursuit of anything he believed in, a distinctive character that almost

cost him his life prematurely on January 19, 2013, because of his vociferous stand against the Boko Haram terrorists.”

He expressed optimism that the new Emir would exhibit similar qualities and “even much more, as he has begun to exhibit” within the few months of his reign.

The president, who extended his “deep and wholehearted congratulations,” said he would continue to pray for the success of the Emir and looks forward to his contributions to uplifting the people of his emirate and

Nigerians in general.

The leader of the presidential delegation, Professor Gambari, who is a maternal uncle of the Emir, Nasiru Ado Bayero, reaffirmed his loyalty and affinity to the Emir.

Gambari described the recreation of Kano’s additional four emirates by the Abdullahi Umar Ganduje administration as ‘‘wonderful, historic and innovative.”

Meanwhile, Governor Abdullahi Ganduje of Kano State, yesterday presented the staff of office to the Emir of

Bichi, Nasiru Ado-Bayero, as the second Emir of Bichi.

Bichi was among the newly created emirates by Ganduje’s administration.

Other newly created emirates were Rano, Gaya, and Karaye, in addition to the existing Kano Emirate Council.

The Emir, had on Friday, given his daughter in marriage to the son of President Buhari, Yusuf.

Speaking after presenting the staff of office to the Emir, Ganduje said the state government appreciated the contributions being rendered

by traditional institutions in promoting peace and stability in the state.

Ganduje said the contributions made by traditional institutions, made the administration create the additional emirates, to extend development to grassroots areas.

He urged the Emir and other Emirs in the state, to continue to assist the government in providing security for lives and property.

The governor urged the Emir to remain a father to all his subjects without discrimination.

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NEWS

Why Obaigbena is Africa’s Media Giant, Say Award Organisers Kuni Tyessi in Abuja The Chairman of the Governing Council of Africa’s Highest Honour Award (AHA), Mr. Festus Uwakhemen, has explained why the organisation settled for the Chairman of THISDAY/ARISE Media Group, Prince Nduka Obaigbena as the Media Giant for the 2021 edition of Africa Highest Honour Award.

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo; Ghanaian President, Mr. Nana Akuffo-Addo, and former Interim President of Tunisia, Mahamad Ennaceur, were also nominated for the African Leadership Award.

Uwakhemen explained in a statement issued at the weekend that Obaigbena has contributed immensely to the growth and development of the media industry both in Nigeria and at the international level, adding also that the media mogul has kept to the international standard of practice.

According to him, Obaigbena stands out among the African publishers who have covered both the broadcast and print sectors in line with laid down rules and practice.

Uwakhemen stressed that the list of the awardees was carefully selected to cover all sectors of the African economy, adding that appreciating entrepreneurship will spur the interest of many to do more

to make society better for all.

He expressed satisfaction for a job well done by the adjudication committee set up by the organisation to scrutinise the list and make sure that every awardee is meritorious.

The award, which is the first of its kind, has been established to celebrate Africans who have distinguished themselves in various fields of endeavours as well as to celebrate individuals who are dead but whose impacts and legacy cannot be forgotten on the continent.

"The list of the awardees was carefully selected to cover all sectors of the African economy. We are appreciating entrepreneurship, which will spur the interest of many to do more and better the society for all.

"The adjudication committee has done a good job. It was set up by the organisation to scrutinise the list and making sure every awardee is meritorious without favour. I am satisfied with the outcome," he added.

The organisers had in an earlier statement disclosed that former President Olusegun Obasanjo; Ghanaian President, Mr. Nana Akuffo-Addo, and former Interim President of Tunisia, Mahamad Ennaceur, were also nominated for the African Leadership Award.

Similarly, the first Prime Minister of Nigeria, Tafawa

Balewa; the late President of South Africa, Nelson Mandela; the late President of Ghana, Jerry Rawlings; and former Chairman of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, South Africa, Desmond Tutu,

were also nominated for Posthumous Elites Heroes award.

The Prestigious Elites Organisations Board had announced in the statement

by Uwakhemen that the names

were carefully selected through due process.

He had also stated that the first award recipients would be inducted into the African Prestigious Elites Leaders Hall of Fame and Personality

Award respectively and that the nominated recipients approved by the organisation’s advisory board would be inducted into the ‘Africa Highest Honour Award as nomination letters were being sent out to them.

YOUTH DEVELOPMENT...

Kano State Governor, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje (left); and Acting Chief Executive Officer, 9mobile, Mr. Juergen Pesche, at the graduation ceremony of 9mobile-sponsored digital skills entrepreneurship programme for youths in Bichi Emirate Council, Kano State…yesterday

NIGERIA’S EXTERNAL RESERVES HIT $37BN WITH $3.5BN NEW SDRS microfinance

bank found engaging in foreign exchange transactions.

The apex bank has also urged the organised labour to collaborate with it to grow the country’s economy.

The approval for the SDRs credit was announced by the board of IMF on August 4.

SDRs are supplementary foreign exchange reserve assets defined and maintained by the IMF. They are units of account for the IMF and not a currency.

Also, they represent a claim to currency held by IMF member countries for which they may be exchanged. SDRs were created in 1969 to supplement a shortfall of preferred foreign exchange reserve assets, namely gold and United States dollars.

Managing Director, Financial Derivatives Company Limited, Mr. Bismarck Rewane, who confirmed the maturity of the IMF’s credit to THISDAY yesterday, said: “Upon receipt of the IMF’s SDR credit of $3.35billion expected on August 23, we expect gross external reserves to increase to about $37billion. This will provide more support for the CBN to support the currency and lead to a further convergence of the exchange rate around the I & E window.”

Rewane also said in the August edition of the FDC Monthly Update, released during the weekend, that “an increase in the gross external reserves will support the CBN’s intervention at the foreign exchange markets and help in the convergence of the parallel market rate towards the rate at the I&E window.

“In the first fortnight of August, Nigeria’s gross external reserves maintained a steady accretion. The reserves gained 0.30 per cent to $33.58billion (August 13). The cumulative gain as of August 13 is $180million. At $33.58billion, the reserves level is sufficient to cover 8.24 months.

“We expect the CBN’s increase in forex supply to commercial banks to support the exchange rate for invisibles in the near

term and ultimately, close the gap between the parallel and official rates (N104/$ as of August 13). Similarly, we expect the $3.35billion IMF SDR allocation to increase the external reserves level to about $37billion and support the CBN’s intervention in the forex market,” Rewane explained.

About $275 billion (193 billion SDRs ) of the new allocation would go to emerging markets and developing countries, including low-income countries.

The economic research firm projected additional foreign exchange accretion through the anticipated rise in higher oil revenue in the coming months.

“We expect the increase in Nigeria’s domestic oil production to be sustained in the coming months barring any disruptions,” the FDC report stated.

It added that: “An increase in oil production will offset the fall in oil prices and this will lead to higher oil revenue. This will impact positively on the fiscal and external balances of the country.”

FDC quoted the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) monthly oil report as stating that Nigeria’s domestic oil production increased by 3.60 per cent (45,000 barrels per day) to 1.44mbpd in July from 1.39mbpd in June. This, according to the report, is 22.58 per cent below the benchmark of 1.86mbpd.

Nigeria’s oil rig count had increased by 40 per cent from five to seven in June.

Consequently, the company expects oil prices to remain soft in the near term due to the surge in Covid-19 cases globally.

FDC stated, “China, a major importer of oil, recently imposed lockdown measures. This will dampen its oil demand prospects and weigh on the oil price. We expect oil prices to stay within the $70 per barrel- $74pb range.”

It explained that although lower oil prices and the attendant reduction in oil earnings cannot be ruled out, the government’s acquisition of a 20 per cent stake in Dangote Refinery will be the saving grace.

“Oil accounts for 86 per cent

of Nigeria’s export earnings and contributes approximately 10 per cent to GDP. Lower oil prices coupled with Nigeria’s low oil production would lead to reduced oil earnings and government revenue.

“The government’s acquisition of a 20 per cent stake in the Dangote Refinery, which is projected to be the largest single-plant in the world, guarantees a steady supply of crude to the refinery and will boost the NNPC’s revenue.

In addition, the Kaduna and Warri refineries will undergo rehabilitation and complement the Dangote refinery. Nigeria could be on its way to being becoming a regional oil hub,” the report added.

CBN Threatens to Revoke MFBs' Licences over Fx Transactions Meanwhile, the CBN has threatened to revoke the operating licence of any microfinance bank (MFB) found engaging in foreign exchange transactions.

According to the apex bank, some of the MFBs had been engaging in activities beyond the remit of their licences as they dealt in foreign exchange transactions and practised wholesale banking, considered as non-permissible activities for micro banking institutions.

The CBN, which read this riot act in a ‘Circular to All Microfinance Banks’ with reference: FPRD/DIR/PUB/ CIR/01/020, dated August 19, 2021, cautioned that acting outside beyond their mandates with comparatively low capitalisation, posed a significant risk with dire consequences for financial system stability.

“The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has observed the activities of some Microfinance Banks (MFBs) that have gone beyond the remit of their operating licences by engaging in non-permissible activities, especially wholesale banking, foreign exchange transactions, and others.

“Given the comparatively low capitalisation of MFBs, dealing in wholesale and /or foreign exchange transaction is a significant risk with dire consequences for financial system stability,” the circular stated.

The CBN, in the circular, titled, ‘Cessation of Non-Permissible Activities by Microfinance Banks’, signed by Deputy Director, Financial Policy and Regulation Department, CBN, Mr. Ibrahim S. Tukur, reminded all MFBs to strictly comply with the extant Revised Regulatory and Supervisory Guidelines for Microfinance Banks in Nigeria 2012.

Stating that it would continue to monitor developments in the MFB sector, it stressed that it would apply severe regulatory sanctions for breaches of extant regulations including revoking the licence of non-compliant MFBs (in line with Section 19 of the Guidelines).

According to Section 19 of the Guidelines: “The grounds for revoking a licence granted to an MFB may be any or all of the following: (a) Submission of false information/data during and/or after the processing of the application for licence; (b) The use of proxies or disguised names to obtain a licence to operate as an MFB; (C) Engaging in functions/activities outside the permissible scope of its licence as specified in Section 2.2 of these guidelines; (d) Persistent failure to comply with request for information/data in the form required/specified by the CBN; (e) Engaging in activities prejudicial to the Nigerian economy; (f) Failure to redeem matured obligations to customers; (g) Failure to render statutory monthly returns for a continuous period of six months or for a cumulative period of six months in a financial year; (h) Unauthorised shop closure; (i), Failure to comply with any directive issued by the CBN; (j) Engaging in prohibited activities as listed in these Guidelines; (k) Technical insolvency, that is, where an MFB’s assets are insufficient to cover its liabilities; (i) Such

other conditions applicable to banks and other financial institutions which constitute a ground for revocation of licence under the Banks and other Financial Institutions Act (BOFIA) 1991(as amended); and (m) any other act(s) which in the opinion of the CBN constitute(s) a violation or a serious default.”

The apex bank, however, stated for the record, the permissible activities of specialised microinstitutions. “MFBs are strictly prohibited from foreign exchange transactions; MFBs are to primarily focus on providing financial services to retail and/ or micro-clients; Microcredit and retail transactions carried out by MFBs are limited to N500,000 per transaction for Tier 2 Unit MFBs and N1,000,000 per transaction for other categories; Microcredit facilities shall constitute a minimum of 80 per cent of total loans portfolio for MFBs,” it pointed out.

The latest CBN circular came on the heels of measures it had taken in recent times to save the value of the naira and maintain its integrity.

About a month ago, it suspended forex allocations to bureau de change (BDC) operators.

As soon it cut off direct supply to the BDCs, it released $200 million to the commercial banks and has continued to serve them forex liquidity, weekly.

This was part of efforts to meet dollar demand for legitimate end-users in the country.

But not too long after, some of the banks (though names undisclosed), were indicted for round-tripping.

They were accused of flouting the forex rules by actively conniving with unscrupulous customers to defraud the system.

This set of customers and banks were, however, threatened with stiff sanctions by the banking regulator. The threat came after the 357th Bankers Committee meeting, which was held virtually, recently.

The bank CEOs, who reported the unwholesome practices by the banks and customers, noted they would adopt digital

means to detect fraud in the forex system. Managing Director of First City Monument Bank (FCMB), Yemisi Edun, and Group Managing Director of Guaranty Trust Holding Company (GTCO), Segun Agbaje, spoke on behalf of the banks. The Bankers Committee membership, which comprises banks’ CEOs and CBN directors, has the CBN governor as its chairman.

Meanwhile, speaking yesterday in Lagos on the sidelines of the one-day interactive enlightenment session with organised labour and civil society on the CBN’s five-year policy thrust, the apex bank’s acting Director, Corporate Communications, Mr. Osita Nwanisobi, called on the labour to collaborate with it for inclusive growth across the economy.

While giving clarity on the circular issued on MFBs, he emphasised that the practices by some MFBs pose significant risks to the banking system.

He also called on the labour to collaborate with the CBN to grow the economy.

Nwanisobi said: “The CBN alone cannot bear with all of the issues in the Nigerian economy and we believe that it is important that every Nigerian key into the reality that we need to grow our economy. It is not just about the CBN or the Nigerian government; it is about the Nigerian people and we believe that the labour, being a significant stakeholder group, would be able to take this message to their people.

“We are calling on labour and everyone to support the interventions by the CBN as these policies of the CBN are to grow the economy sustainably so we can see how to get inflation to single digits.

“Our interventions are very well thought-out; it is not something that comes out of the curve; we sit down to think through these interventions before we get it out to the public and the whole essence is to grow the real economy sustainably,” he explained.

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NEWS

Leave Enduring Legacies for Your Children, Osinbajo Charges Nigerians Atiku, 14 govs, others celebrate Okowa’s father Omon-Julius Onabu in Asaba Vice President Yemi Osinbajo; former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, 14 governors, and other distinguished personalities yesterday celebrated the legacies of a foremost educationist, committed public servant, and father of Delta State Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, the late Arthur Okowa.

Speaking at St Michael's Anglican Church, OwaAlero, Ika North East Local Government Area of Delta State at the thanksgiving service marking the celebration of the life of the Okowa, Osinbajo charged Nigerians to jettison the life of inordinate drive for money and material possessions and leave enduring legacies for their children, noting that inheritance of money and materials might not stand the test of time.

The vice president said that there was overwhelming evidence that the late Okowa left good legacies as the inheritance not only for his children and grandchildren but also for his community, the state, and the nation.

Quoting from Proverbs 13:22, the vice-president said: "A good man leaves an inheritance to his children's children," noting that bequeathing money, houses and other expressions of materialism was inadequate as that might not endure for long.

He said that Nigerian parents should rather seek to leave behind for their children legacies of integrity, faith, and selfless service to people, community, and the nation.

He described the late Pa Okowa as an outstanding teacher, pioneer educationist, and committed public servant.

Osinbajo noted that the story of educational development of many communities in Delta and Edo states cannot be told without the mention of the late Pa Okowa.

"I am honoured to join so many from all over the

country and the rest of the world to celebrate the life and times of an outstanding pioneer educationist and a committed public servant, Pa Arthur Okowa.

"He was also a great politician with the UPN under the leadership of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo," he said.

The vice president said the legacies left behind by the deceased would last forever.

"There is no guarantee that material wealth can last a generation but a legacy of character and faith in God lasts forever.

"The nation and the state benefited and still benefit from the contributions of Pa Okowa with his son becoming Governor of Delta State.

"The Owa-Alero community, Delta, and Nigeria have been blessed with the life and times of Pa Arthur Okowa," Osinbajo

added.

Chief mourner and Governor of Delta State Senator Ifeanyi Okowa said his father would have been 89 years yesterday, but he passed on January 28.

He said his father was a great teacher, politician, and community leader whose disciplinary actions contributed immensely to the success of his children in life.

"We give thanks to the Lord our God for showing him mercy to have lived up to 88 years.

"I thank Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, my dear brother governors, and distinguished guests for coming to celebrate the life and times of our great father.

"Our father lived a worthy life and we thank God for his life. He was a teacher and many people know him to be a great disciplinarian and that discipline impacted greatly

in our lives.

"He played his part to educate people in this country particularly in this part of the world. He was also a great politician and am grateful that he guided me through difficult and turbulent times in politics.

"He worked very hard for the creation and growth of the Ika Diocese of the Anglican Communion. He retired home at 80 and rose to become Okpara-Uku of Idumebo Quarters, Owa-Alero.

"He lived a good life of truth and discipline and as his children, we are happy that we went through his disciplinary measures.

"On behalf of our entire family, we thank you for coming to celebrate the life and times of our great father," Okowa stated.

Archbishop Metropolitan and Primate of the Church of

Nigeria Anglican Communion, Most Rev. Henry Ndukuba in a sermon titled "Seek ye the Lord with the prevailing faith," said the faith that prevails is the one that is anchored in the name of God. The Primate said the late Pa Okowa left a great legacy as an astute teacher and community leader and urged the children to work hard in preserving the legacy left behind by their great patriarch.

In attendance at the thanksgiving service were: Vice President, Atiku; governors of Sokoto State, Hon. Aminu Tambuwal; Akwa-Ibom State, Mr. Udom Emmanuel; Edo State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki; Oyo State, Mr. Seyi Makinde; Ondo State, Mr. Rotimi Akeredolu; Rivers State, Mr. Nyesom Wike; Taraba State, Mr. Darius Ishaku; Enugu State, Mr. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi; Adamawa State, Mr. Ahmadu

Umaru-Fintiri; Benue State, Dr. Samuel Ortom; Bayelsa State, senator Douye Diri; Anambra State, Mr. Willie Obiano, Bauchi State, Senator Bala Mohammed; Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi and Deputy Governor of Delta, Mr. Kingsley Otuaro.

Also in attendance were: Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Lucky Irabor; Chairman of THISDAY and ARISE NEWS Group, Prince Nduka Obaigbena; National Chairman of PDP, Prince Uche Secondus; Chairman, Board of Trustees PDP, Senator Walid Jibrin; Senator Dino Melaye; Minister of State for Petroleum, Chief Timipre Sylva; Minority Leader, House of Representatives, Hon. Ndudi Elumelu; former Governor of Delta State, Chief James Ibori; Chairman of UBA, Mr. Tony Elumelu; and business mogul, Sir Jide Omokore, among others.

Nigeria Fast Descending into Dictatorship, Afenifere Warns Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan The apex Yoruba socio-cultural organisation, Afenifere, yesterday raised the alarm that Nigeria is fast becoming a dictatorial and tyrannical state.

The organisation also said it was forced into what it called this unsavoury conclusion in view of various actions and pronouncements of the federal government in recent times.

It made this conclusion in a statement its National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Jare Ajayi issued yesterday on behalf of its Acting Leader, Chief Ayo Adebanjo.

Adebanjo said the dictatorial tendency of President Muhammadu Buhari could be seen in his insistence to go ahead with re-opening grazing routes and establishment of ranches in the country when the preponderance of opinions across the country is to do away with open grazing.

He said: “We vividly recall

that on February 9, 2021, the 19 governors in the North at their meeting resolved that open grazing could no longer be sustained.

“They resolved to encourage herders in their areas to go into modern way of rearing cows which is ranching. On May 11 of this same year, their counterparts in all the 17 states in the South met in Asaba, Delta State and placed a ban on open grazing.

“This was backed up with legal instruments through the enactment of an enabling law as passed by the respective Houses of Assembly as shrined in Section 4 and in Part 2 of the Second Schedule of the 1999 Constitution as amended.

"Also, against the wishes of the majority of Nigerians, the President went ahead to sign the PIB into law despite the obvious injustice contained therein and to which the attention of the government was called beforehand.

“Same goes for the

insistence on going for the non-transmission of elections results electronically when doing so was what majority of Nigerians wanted and asked for,” Adebanjo said.

Afenifere said only a government with dictatorial tendencies behaved in that manner, saying this could be further seen in how Buhari administration “is hard on those agitating for a better life for their people while it is soft on bandits, kidnappers and herders who are imperilling the lives of farmers."

Afenifere regretted that on several occasions, the administration of President Buhari “has taken measures that were totally against the interests of the Nigerian populace.

"Contrary to the promises made during the electoral campaigns by the President and his party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), the prices of commodities and services have skyrocketed while social services

delivery and infrastructure kept receding.

"The worst aspect of all these is the level of insecurity in the country today. At no time in the history of this Nigeria was life so cheap and living so precarious as they were presently.

“Unfortunately, those who should act are expressing their helplessness as exemplified by the call of Katsina State, Governor Bello Masari, on the people of the state to find the means of securing themselves against bandits who have literally taken control in many parts of the state", it said.

“Masari was not the first official to make such a call, stating that his was very significant not only because he belongs to the same political party with the President but also because he is the governor of the President's home state.

"Rather than confronting the challenges in various issues that have direct bearings on the life of the people, the federal

government preferred to go for the less impactful things such as regulating the media, going after those who are peacefully expressing displeasure over what is going on in the country and concerning itself with where and how cows are to be grazed in the country."

Adebanjo said this attitude on the part of President Buhari called to one's mind, the story of the Roman Emperor Nero who was busy on the fiddle when his empire was burning'.

He asked the President to embrace democratic ethos immediately by pursuing only policies that are in the best interests of the people.

It also reiterated its call for an urgent restructuring of the country, saying "the only panacea to the multivarious problems bedevilling the country now “is for the federal government to shun nepotism, confront insecurity and restructure the country immediately."

countries to ramp up their search for renewable and cleaner-burning fuels, resourcedependent countries like Nigeria are devoting more funding for its exploration for the commodity.

Apart from Nigeria, other countries like Brazil, Ghana, Guyana, and Suriname, at the just concluded Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) in Houston, Texas, United States, laid out agenda for massive oil and gas discoveries that could reshape their economies, if they can get them to market before values erode.

While this year’s Houston conference showcased cleaner fuels and the urgency of emissions reduction, accentuating low-carbon tech, offshore wind, and clean-burning hydrogen, Nigeria has insisted that it will continue to take full advantage of its hydrocarbons as the country’s energy needs and the developed world's sharply contrast.

Nigeria is currently

deploying 30 per cent of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) profit oil and gas to prospecting for oil and gas in the frontier basins as the federal government recently said it won’t allow the country’s barrels to waste.

The country is proposing this investment although the much-talked energy transition is gaining momentum.

Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Chief Timipre Sylva, while responding to the global pressure, had noted that Nigeria does not have enough resources to join the race to renewable energy any time soon.

“We are not really in the race to renewables as a country and even as a continent, we are not very much in the race to renewable. Let’s look at where we have our comparative advantage.

“Our comparative advantage today as far as energy is concerned is the area of oil and gas. “We have a lot of gas in this territory, unfortunately,

we have not focused on gas, and gas is considered to be a cleaner fuel.

“Some people have begun to discuss gas not as a transition fuel, but as a destination fuel. So, it is also considered a renewable fuel. “What we are doing in PIB is to move the focus from oil to gas,” he posited.

He maintained that the international community cannot ‘pigeon-hole' Nigeria into an area that it doesn’t have much strength, stressing that as a country, Nigeria will concentrate on gas production.

Speaking at the Houston conference, Ghana Energy Minister, Matthew Prempeh, noted that Africa was impoverished in terms of energy supply, explaining that the continent couldn’t abandon its resources, according to a report by Reuters.

"We have millions of people without electricity in Africa.

Energy transition does not mean we'll see our resources unexploited," he stated.

NIGERIANS SPEND N12.3TN ON PETROL, DIESEL IN SIX YEARS with a value of N2.62 trillion.

In addition, a total of 990.17 million litres of refined or white products were sold and distributed by PPMC in April 2020 compared with 1.647 billion litres in March 2020.

This comprised 941.11 million litres of petrol, 47.16 million litres of diesel, and 1.78 million litres of kerosene, which the NNPC has now fully stopped importing.

It is unclear how Nigeria’s poor, who mostly use kerosene now source the product, although there’s a huge illegal refining industry in the Niger Delta.

Added to that, the sale of white products for the period April 2019 to April 2020 stood at 21,027.43 billion litres where petrol accounted for 20,834.36 billion litres or 99.08 per cent.

Furthermore, a total sum of N107.61 billion was made on the sale of white products by PPMC in April 2020 compared to N192.37 billion sales in March 2020.

Revenues generated from the

sales of white products for the period April 2019 to April 2020 stood at N2.562 trillion, where petrol contributed about 98.68 per cent of the total sales with a value of N2.528 trillion.

Moreover, a total sum of N220.08 billion was made on the sale of white products by PPMC in April 2021 compared to N234.56 billion sales in March 2021.

Total revenues generated from the sales of white products for the period April 2020 to April 2021 stood at N2.157 trillion, where petrol added about 99.27 per cent of the total sales with a value of N2.141 billion.

Cumulatively, an estimated N740.16 billion worth of petrol was consumed by Nigerians between April 2015 and the same month in 2016; it more than doubled between the period April 2016 to April 2017 to about N1.72 trillion and further increased markedly the following year running from April 2018 to April 2019, to about N2.27 trillion.

Between April 2019 and

April 2020, N2.85 trillion worth of fuel was consumed

by Nigerians but reduced the following period to N2.56 trillion before further decreasing between last year and this, to N2.15 trillion.

Products importation has constituted a major burden on the country’s foreign exchange earnings, with the national oil company unable to discharge its statutory obligation to the joint federation account in May.

Nigeria, Others in Race for New Oil Finds Meanwhile, Nigeria and other developing oil-producing nations have continued their efforts to discover more hydrocarbons, despite the global campaign against fossil fuels, especially as the world races against net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Despite the move led by the United States, which is pressuring other developed

SUNDAY AUGUST 22, 2021 • T H I S D AY

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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 ˾ AUGUST 22, 2021

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EDITORIAL

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

BUHARI AND HIS GRAZING ROUTES Grazing routes are out of tune. The future of cattle farming is in ranching

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n a double down on his controversial pledge to revive the contentious grazing routes for herders, President Muhammadu Buhari on Thursday approved the recommendations of a committee to review “with dispatch, 368 grazing sites across 25 states in the country and to determine the levels of encroachment.” The decision pits him against sections of the country where open grazing has been banned because of the criminality and insecurity associated with it. The president is also playing into the hands of those who have always argued that he is a sectional leader with scant regards for the feelings of Nigerians outside his tiny enclave.

On this matter of grazing routes, the president has been consistent in his disregard for public sensitivities. Yet, even if the grazing routes were still valid, they can only facilitate further clashes between settler farmers and migrant herders. Besides, by allowing some people, including foreigners, to roam the length and breadth of Nigeria, often herding evacuated cattle, we violate the rights of these animals and endanger the health of citizens through exposure to the elements and a cocktail of diseases. So, at a time the conversation is about how to modernise the way we rear cattle in our country, it is curious that President Buhari is the one advocating that a primitive idea be sustained. This is aside the threat nomadism poses to national security.

We have made this point several times: In the history of humanity, the stage of development at which man wandered for a livelihood belongs to the stone age. It was in the bid to stem the internecine violent clashes between herdsmen and

P

To insist on some ancient cattle routes and grazing reserves is to further polarise an already badly divided country

Letters to the Editor

farmers, that the 17 states in the Southern part of the country as well as two states in the North (Benue and Taraba) banned open grazing by livestock. With little variations that take care of peculiarities in these states, the law prohibits movement of livestock and open grazing by them. This law is what the president intends to roll back, even when the constitution grants him no such power.

As we reminded the president much earlier on his dogged insistence on ancient cattle routes, the First Republic ended 55 years ago. In the intervening period, migrant cattle herding has ceased in almost every other country. Modern ranches have replaced roving herds while beef production has become a modern mechanised industrial undertaking. Furthermore, wherever those grazing routes of the 1960s may have been, population growth and pressure of farming and land use would have brought them under new uses. In fact, under the Land Use Act, governors remain the custodians of all lands in their states. erhaps it will be suitable for the president to provide the platform for a wholesale discussion on the future of animal husbandry in relations to the transition from nomadism to ranching. A package of incentives, including soft loans, liberal access to land, training, and provision of inputs to herders and others can help facilitate the transition and ameliorate the challenges associated with it. If done properly, we can then employ and re-train the herdsmen in modern settled cattle farming.

The animals will be healthier; the handlers will earn decent incomes, have decent accommodation, own property, and have schools for their kids. Ancillary industries will also emerge and employment opportunities will blossom.

To insist on some ancient cattle routes and grazing reserves is to further polarise an already badly divided country. A minimum requirement of the democratic ethos is close attention to the barometer of public opinion. Sadly, President Buhari is habitually indifferent to public opinion in his pursuit of personal and group interests. His latest order on the vexatious grazing reserves is a further step in the direction of deepening divisiveness and subverting the democratic will of Nigerians. It is also a serious threat to national security.

Worse still, at a time of rapid global modernisation of production processes in all spheres of the economy of nations, Nigeria seems encumbered with an elected leader with a permanent attachment to and fixation on archaic methods and ways.

S U N DAY N E W S PA P E R EDITOR DAVIDSON IRIEKPEN DEPUTY EDITORS FESTUS AKANBI, EJIOFOR ALIKE MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN MANAGING EDITOR BOLAJI ADEBIYI THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE

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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.

NIGERIA AND TRAVAILS OF TAXATION

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ach time the government announces new taxes or jerks up the costs of already existing services, Nigerians shift uncomfortably in their seats, haunted by the unaccountability that has shrouded the collection and collation of taxes in the past. An identical reaction was recently drawn when the government announced that toll gates would return to some roads, and the costs of some of the products and services manned by the Federal Road Safety Commission will increase. The question on the lips of many Nigerians verge on what good these will do. This question is not at all without basis.

For many Nigerians, toll gates evoke all that is wrong with Nigerian roads; for many, it is

also a metaphor for the country`s bumpy ride to development.

Nigerians are always left bemused as why they should part ways with huge sums as taxes when the government does puzzlingly little to justify the enormous taxes imposed and collected. Worse still, many Nigerians have no doubt that most of the taxes imposed on Nigerians end up as proceeds for corruption or perks for expensively assembled governments at different levels.

There are taxes for virtually everything. Yet, the Nigerian government through the agencies that collect and collate these taxes takes it upon itself to lament from time to time that the taxes are not enough, or that people are not tax compliant enough.

Business owners have to

pay through their noses as do the consumers of goods and services. Yet for all it makes from taxes, the country is yet to transform the lives of its citizens.

Public infrastructure is mostly in a shambles and the necessities to engender a better life for Nigerians are in critically short supply.

Nigeria`s journey to nationhood has been one of mammoth difficulties. Lord Lugard`s 1914 contraption of convenience was always fractured from the beginning. Those fractures were well concealed until Nigeria erupted into a civil war seven years after its independence.

The Nigerian Civil War was internecine and attritional, irreparably damaging the fabric of Nigeria within three bloody years. It is no exaggeration to say that the country has not

remained the same.

Renegade members of the Nigerian military, whose reckless excursion out of their barracks and incursion into politics precipitated the civil war in the first place, still took their turns at different times to have a run at the country`s highest office. They lingered, doing irreparable damage to Nigeria`s democratic credentials until they beat a hasty retreat in 1999. They have remained on the horizons of power, dishing out unwelcome and unsolicited advice about the direction Nigeria must take much to the chagrin of Nigerians who do not by any means have short memories.

Just as the toll gates which are being reintroduced would lead to unnecessary congestion on our roads and milk Nigerians of hard earned money, corruption has been another rock in the road of Nigeria`s journey to nationhood. So

entrenched in Nigeria`s culture has corruption become that many Nigerians no longer see anything wrong with the deadly vice.

Contractors retained by the government to build public infrastructure have to pay their way through the jobs. At the end of the day, in order to balance their own books, they execute the jobs shoddily and move on like vultures to the next contract to be ripped apart with nothing to show for it.

Nigerians are not at all averse to taxation. The pangs of taxation in Nigeria is directly traceable to the fact that Nigerians cannot see tangible benefits from the taxes they pay. The day the Nigerian taxpayer will begin to see their taxes judiciously used for their own good, taxation will become appealing to many.

Kene Obiezu, Abuja

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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 ˾ AUGUST 22, 2021

OPINION

PLATEAU: BEYOND THE JOS KILLINGS

Chris Gyang urges the authorities to go beyond the surface in order to stem the recurring crisis

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he Bassa and Rukuba Road killings have once again brought into sharp focus the tenuous nature of the prevailing peace in Plateau State and exposed the high level of suspicion and hatred its citizens harbor against each other.

To shed some light on these gory events of the last few weeks, it is important to start with a trip down memory lane. In the process, we should keep in mind the sobering fact that in September 2020, the Global Terrorism Index rated Nigeria as the third most terrorized country in the world - after Afghanistan (which has now been taken over by Islamist terrorists – the Taliban) and Iraq.

In the wake of the 2018 horrific massacres of more than 200 people in Barakin Ladi, Riyom and parts of Bokkos and Bassa local government areas of Plateau State, Rev. Dr. Soja Bewarang, the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Plateau State, at the time issued a press release on behalf of the Christian Denominational Heads in the state. The church leaders appealed to President Buhari to stop the killings to “avoid a state of complete anarchy where the people are forced to defend themselves’’ as a result of the “ongoing Fulani herdsmen pogrom.’’

The clerics declared that the orgy of killings, which lasted from June 22 to June 24, 2018, were “aimed at ethnic cleansing, land-grabbing and forceful ejection of the Christian natives from their ancestral land and heritage.’’

They bemoaned a situation where government was hiding the true figures of casualties as “They keep navigating from 11, 86 and 100 figures which in actual sense has a death toll figure so far of 238.’’

They condemned the misleading narrative about ‘farmers’/herdsmen’s clashes’, saying, “The federal government has been so immersed in this false propaganda and deceit while forcefully pushing the policy idea of establishing cattle ranches/colonies on the ancestral farmlands of the attacked communities for the Fulani herdsmen as the only solution to the problem.’’ The ecumenical fathers queried why the killings were being described as ‘clashes’ “when one group is persistently attacking, killing, maiming, destroying; and the other group is persistently being killed, maimed and their places of worship destroyed?’’

And commenting about governments’ consistent, deliberate policy of refusing to pointedly name the Fulani herdsmen as the aggressors, the church leaders advised: “Until we call a disease by its real name and the causatives, it would be difficult to properly diagnose the disease for the right curative medications.’’

And on June 23, 2018, the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) issued a statement in which it said the horrific violence “certainly amounts to genocide” aimed at eliminating indigenous Christian populations “for the purpose of creating grazing reserves for local and foreign Fulani herdsmen” as the federal government had deliberately refused to rein in the Fulani militia. The church emphasised that “we have had enough of the government’s insensitivity” and took a swipe at the STF “who have failed in their responsibilities of protecting lives and properties.”

We have presented the above sketch in order to, first, give a little background into the Bassa and Rukuba Road killings.

Second, to demonstrate that such unfortunate carnage and willful destruction of lives and property have a long history that cannot be wished away; these were not a one-shot affair that suddenly materialized within a few days and from nowhere.

The state and federal authorities are presently making very commendable efforts to fish out the perpetrators of the Rukuba Road killings. They should not forget to also go back to Irigwe land and indeed all other flashpoints in the state with the same speed, resources and determination to unravel the forces that have ravaged those societies for

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so long so that justice would also be extended to them.

Peace is well entrenched only when justice is equitably dispensed.

Let us consider the attacks on the Irigwe people of Bassa LGA of Plateau State, spanning July 23 to August 3.

As the violence eased, two umbrella bodies representing the Irigwe people, the Irigwe Development Association and the Irigwe Youth Movement, in a press conference held on August 1, 2021, stated that they had been under consistent attacks by Fulani herdsmen from the beginning of this year. As a result, “over 40 Rigwe people have been killed by Fulani nihilists in Bassa and Jos North LGAs, over 20 houses razed down, several farming implements and household items carted away, over 500 cultivated crops in different farmlands worth over N1billion destroyed and many unbearable losses.” They listed the names of the victims and the areas where the crops were destroyed.

Obviously lending support to the Irigwe people, Lt. Gen. Jeremiah Useni (rtd.), who is the Chairman, Board of Trustees of the North Central People’s Forum, was reported by thenationonline (August 1) as advising “farmers to defend themselves and crops following the incessant destruction of crops in Plateau and parts of North Central by suspected bandits.” While expressing anger over the spiraling insecurity in the country, the former Military Governor of old Bendel State and former Senator representing the Southern Zone threw this challenge to both citizens and farmers: “You should not allow anybody to attack you, guard yourselves and your farms. You should defend yourselves from anybody who want[s] to attack you.”

Of all the tit-bits that have emerged from the Bassa mayhem, the one that confounded citizens the most was the one told on August 3, 2021. During a breakfast show on Jay FM Radio Station, Jos, Hon. Musa Agah, member representing Irigwe/Rukuba Constituency in the Plateau State House of Assembly, revealed what happened when he and some members went to express the concerns of Plateau people about the desperate state of affairs to Governor Lalong.

t (ZBOH JT UIF $IBJSNBO PG +PVSOBMJTUT $PBMJUJPO GPS $JUJ[FOT 3JHIUT *OJUJBUJWF Read full article online - www.thisdaylive.com

APC, PDP, AND PLAN FOR ONE-PARTY STATE

There are underhand moves to turn the country into one-party state. It should be resisted, writes Yusuph Olaniyonu

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hough in the 32-year staggered history of democracy in Nigeria, the country has never experienced a one-party system, it is not for the lack of trying. The country’s political history is replete with attempts by the ruling parties, at different times, to sink the opposition and impose a one-party regime on the country.

Some people believe that if not for the military incursion in 1966, the Nigeria National Democratic Party (NNDP) was already planning to eclipse the rival Nigeria National Alliance (NNA) and emerge as the only party in the country.

It was believed that the imprisonment of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, the brazen manipulation of the 1964 Federal and 1965 regional elections in the Western region and the appointment of Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe as ceremonial president, a post which precluded him from partisan politics, were strategic moves to enervate and disorganise the opposition.

Also, the impudent manner in which the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) rigged the 1983 elections in which its victory was dubbed ‘moon slide’ signified the sinister plan to foist a dictatorship on the country.

Despite the serious economic crisis, corruption, and general misrule that the nation experienced, the ruling NPN came out of that election having two-third of the members in both chambers of the National Assembly. It also produced 12 of the 19 State Governors. Many believed if the Buhari coup of December 1983 had not overthrown the civilian government, by 1987, only the NPN would have been competing against itself.

By the time of the 2007 elections in which Alhaji Umaru Musa Yar’Adua emerged as President, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was also becoming confident to such an extent that its oligarchy was already talking of ruling for 60 years. That was a declaration of a desire to become the only party in the country. And at one time, the PDP had 24 State Governors out of the 36 (two-third) and a comfortable figure in the National Assembly to make it toy with a one-party system.

The luck that Nigerians had in the 16 years of PDP was that the party truly represented the diversity of Nigeria as all the tendencies in the country were well manifested in the composition of its hierarchy.

Also, the party never had an almighty figure who the rest of the members deferred to or were afraid to challenge. Thus, at that height of the control of the nation’s jugular, the PDP constituted a virile opposition to itself.

The closest figure to the strong man with an iron-clad that the

PDP paraded at the height of its glory, President Olusegun Obasanjo, faced constant internal challenges to his decisions, policies, and programmes. This was why the attempt by a clique within his government to amend the constitution and elongate the tenure of the chief executives at federal and state levels failed due to stiff opposition within the PDP. A PDPcontrolled National Assembly voted it down during a session broadcast live on television with members rising in the full glare of the camera to vehemently oppose it.

Now, the nation is on the verge of a veiled but determined resurgent of the plan to turn it into a one-party state. As it was in the three past attempts, the ruling party, the All Progressives Congress (APC) is treading the same path and re-enacting the old anti-democratic ploy. The current campaign to get all governors and federal legislators to defect to the ruling party is one leg of this plan. I will dwell more on this later. Another move towards actualising this plan is the reigning culture of silence in the National Assembly in which anything the Presidency wants it gets.

There is also the suspicion that there is a pre-election rigging plan for the 2023 elections and those who harbour this suspicion usually query why APC took it as a party policy to frustrate the introduction of new measures that will make the political process more credible, free, fair, peaceful and modern. The fact that all APC members in the National Assembly voted against the provision on the introduction of the electronic transmission of election results contained in the Electoral Act (amendment) Bill 2021 is a testimony to the fact that they only rigidly toed a party line.

The APC already has 22 Governors and 70 Senators. This is just two governors and three senators short of having the two-third majority in these key power centres. The continued onslaught on governors and federal parliamentarians elected on the platform of the PDP is the rehearsal towards the one-party system plot. The real plan is to create a situation where when APC claims or declares a ‘landslide or moonslide’ victory for itself in the 2023 elections, it would be easy to justify such declaration because the perception of a party that all politicians found irresistible has already been dubiously

created.

The scenario setting which the APC is creating before the 2023 elections however needs to be interrogated. What will make any reasonable Nigerian prefer the APC at this point?

This is a party that came to power on a popular mantra of “change” in 2015. People mistook the ‘change’ for change in the fortunes of Nigeria and Nigerians, a positive change for a better Nigeria which has changed to the path of rapidly fulfilling her manifest destiny as the greatest nation in Africa, the one that Black people all over the world will be proud to showcase as their origin.

The APC oligarchs, even specifically, defined areas where Nigerians should expect positive changes: security, economy (including youth employment), and fight against corruption.

Today, in all these areas, Nigeria has been 1000 percent worse off. In 2015, while the insecurity was limited to about four of the states in the Northeast, today all the 36 states including the federal capital are experiencing different levels of kidnapping, banditry, insurgency, ritual killing, cultism, and armed robbery.

The country is now the third most unsafe country in the world.

The rate of unemployment is so high that the growing population of youths which should form the engine of economic development are fast becoming an army of destabilization and contributing to the high level of insecurity. In the World Poverty Clock compiled by Brookings Institution, as of 2018, Nigeria with estimated 87 million people living on less than $1.90 a day, has become the poverty capital of the world. The situation has since got worse.

Other indices placed Nigeria as one of the five most violent places in the world. In the same way last year, the country in the 2020 Transparency International Corruption Perception Index went down by three ranks as it is now number 149 out of 180 countries. t 0MBOJZPOV B DPNN TUSBUFHJTU KPVSOBMJTU BOE MBXZFS XSPUF GSPN "CVKB

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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 ˾ AUGUST 22, 2021

15

LETTERS

PRESERVING NIGERIA’S PEACE AND SECURITY

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ational affability has much to do with what we think of one another; how we talk to one another, and what we call one another.

As nugatory as this may appear to be, the content of our dialogues and multilogue – caustic and vile – in our cocoons on social media and interactions with other Nigerians escalate recriminations, and deepen stereotypes and contorted perceptions.

Bala gets a raw deal from Emeka, and he gears into pejoratives, ‘’southerners are dishonest’’. Tunde’s relationship with Dahiru hits the nadir, and he goes, ‘’northerners are vicious’’. In these instances, ‘’northerners and southerners’’ have become offenders vicariously in transactions between individuals.

The sectional tags – ‘’northerner and southerner’’ are subliminal stereotypes that we have come to normalise.

Although the tags should ordinarily be for the geographical taxonomy of where a citizen comes from, in the case of Nigeria this meaning has been inverted. Calling a Nigerian ‘’northerner’’ or ‘’southerner’’ is often suffused with innuendos, and a form of labelling.

Tags can be unfading for their power to hang on subconsciously. It becomes reflexive to throttle into the ‘’northerners/southerners are that like’’ trope. We must be

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conscious of the potency of tags and do well to keep our conversations and interactions benign. Little annoyances stoke the tension. Whatever does not amplify the unity of Nigeria ossifies disharmony; so, should be discarded.

Tags like ‘’southerner’’ and ‘’northerner’’ emphasise division, and accents the polarity of the north and the south.

Instead of being ‘’northerners’’ and ‘’southerners’’ can we just be Nigerians? This may appear to be a tough call or some idealist longing, but it is possible. It takes deliberate effort on the part of the government in policy formulation and direction on national cohesion, and citizens in our public statements, interactions and actions. A national epiphany and rebirth is conceivable. There must be a systematic approach to promoting national geniality. The government has a principal place in achieving this as well as the citizens.

For me, since I became aware of the insidious quality of these sectional tags, I have made intentional efforts to flush my mind of the vermin.

It is not an easy process as these tags are common in our public conversations and have attained normality. But ‘’change begins with me’’.

Preserving Nigeria’s peace, unity and security is everybody’s business. It is in our best interest to keep the peace and to keep Nigeria steady on the wheels. There is no salvation anywhere – in the US or in Europe. Justice, compassion, and fairness do not govern the global system; only interest rules.

We should love our country, and defend its interest.

The ‘’world’’ cannot do for us what we must do for Nigeria. In fact, "international community" does not exist in practical terms. At the global level there is only a Babel of interests.

The world watched as the killings in Rwanda persisted in 1994 for 100 days. While the country was up in an orgy of bloodletting, the ‘’international community’’ was observing diplomatic niceties and some drinking tea in meetings. About 1.1 million citizens killed. The genocide ended because Rwandans resolved to end it.

The world watched Boko Haram at its apogee of terror in Nigeria. The US even refused to sell weapons to the country when the terrorist group had its claws deep in Nigeria’s throat -- and with many citizens abducted by the insurgents. It is in our hands as Nigerians to preserve our peace and security. There is no salvation in the US, the UK or any foreign power. It is our journey, and it is our cross to bear alone. We are the potter;

we will build Nigeria with our own hands.

Let me reproduce here an ecclesiastical allegory written by Mr Tony Dara, media mogul and passionate advocate of a united Nigeria, which he shared with me. He wrote: ‘’Luke 18:18-30 (here is an attempt to juxtapose Nigeria in this heavenly conversation). ‘’The Rich Ruler (the Nigerian) ‘’And a ruler (a Nigerian) asked him, “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life (to have a great Nigeria)?” And Jesus (Man of Wisdom) said to him, “why do you call me good?

No one is good except God alone. You know the commandments: Do not commit adultery (faithful to Nigeria); do not murder (no harm to others); do not steal (content with what he has); do not bear false witness (give accurate account), honour your father and mother

The World Bank referenced some administrative issues about confirmation of appointment of the project lead, as well as the issue of completion time. Whereas the issue of confirmation of appointment of the acting project lead only serves to assuage confidence, the issue of completion time is a function of human attachment to their lands which would be impacted by the projects.

The government needed to get the buy-in of owners of lands where the rightof-way of channels were to pass through. Locating families and land owners have impacted negatively on completion time. However, of more importance to Governor Makinde is value for money regarding the project.

If the past administration, after receiving over 70% of funds, was only able to complete 25% of the job, Governor Makinde is supremely qualified to ask questions about value-formoney. Or, is it that the people of Oyo State should be subjected to financial burden occasioned by the recklessness of the past administration? Are people saying Oyo State should be consigned to the slave burden of indebtedness?

According to records from the Debt Manage-

ment Office (DMO), the Makinde administration has offset the dollar-denominated debt of the state by $24million, which at the conservative exchange rate of $1/N500, is N12billion.

Over a 24 month-period, that is an average of debt repayment of N500million each month in the last two years of the Makinde administration. N500million every month can take care of a number of socio-economic needs of the people of Oyo State.

Meanwhile, what those who are afraid of their shadows because of the roles they have played in the seeming waste of resources of Oyo people will not tell you, is that even in the letter sent to Governor Makinde by World Bank. The bank recognised Makinde's "unwavering support to this important project for the safety and well-being of Ibadan's citizens."

And, indeed, for Governor Makinde to further demonstrate his "unwavering support to this important project for the safety and well-being of Ibadan's citizens", the issue of the completion date of the phase in question

by June 30, 2022, has been addressed by the governor because he has assured the

man is possible with God.” And Peter (a Nigerian) said, “See, we have left our homes and followed you (we are determined).” And he said to them, “Truly, I say to you, there is no one who has left house or wife or brothers or parents or children, for the sake of the kingdom of God (Nigeria), who will not receive many times more in this time, and in the age to come eternal life (Nigeria is a VERY BLESSED LAND).”

Indeed, Nigeria is a blessed land. A new and better Nigeria is all in our hands.

Instead of chronic negativity and visceral tearing down of the country, let us work at it.

It begins with what we do in our neighbourhoods; in traffic, in our offices, in our schools, in public places, and even in our religious houses.

Fredrick ‘Mr OneNigeria’ Nwabufo, fredricknwabufo@yahoo. com

THE TALIBAN AND GLOBAL SECURITY

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received the news of the toppling of the Afghan government by the Taliban with shock on Sunday 15th of August, 2021. As United States and NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) prepared to withdraw their troops from the Islamic State after two decades of war, Afghanistan President, Ashraf Ghani, vaunted his military firepower and affirmed his government had the capacity to defeat Taliban. But, the world

GOV MAKINDE: TWO YEARS ON

hat Governor 'Seyi Makinde of Oyo State continues to confound many because of his uncommon approach to governance is a product of his unalloyed commitment to serve and deliver for the people of the state.

He has made it clear on many occasions that the people will remain the centre-piece of his governance-dynamics, such that the output and outcomes of government policies will target the people.

Therefore, when the World Bank conveyed the determination of the status of its support ($200m loan) for the Ibadan Urban Flood Management Project (IUFMP) considering to withdraw from funding the project, it never referenced any issue of undue influence by the amiable Governor Makinde. The World Bank also did not say that contract costs were inflated. These two issues were never part of considerations by the World Bank in presenting the status of its determination about the project.

Therefore, the rumour being peddled by some disgruntled elements about Governor Makinde's undue interference and inflation of contract costs is what it is: A lie from the pit of Hell!

(respect societal values).’” And he said: “All these I have kept from my youth.” When Jesus heard this, he said to him, “One thing you still lack.

Sell all that you have and distribute to the poor (give all to Nigeria), and you will have treasure in heaven (in Nigeria); and come, follow me (become a nationhood servant not master).” But when he heard these things, he became very sad, for he was extremely rich (selfish, self-serving). Jesus, seeing that he had become sad, said: “How difficult it is for those who have wealth (who are selfish and self-serving) to enter (build) the kingdom of God (Nigeria), for it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person (Nigerians as we are) to enter the kingdom of God (to build Nigeria).” Those who heard it said: “Then who can be saved (who then will serve Nigeria)?” But he said: “What is impossible with

World Bank that even if the completion date of June next year was to falter, the Oyo State government under his watch would "continue to fund and complete works post-June 2022 project completion date, should project works at all Lots extend beyond the end date."

This assurance can only come from a governor who believes in and is committed to the well-being of the people.

Not minding the rot Makinde met on ground regarding the IUFMP, and contrary to insinuations in some partisan and uneducated quarters about interests and lack of continuity, only last week, IUFMP awarded dredging of 45 streams within and around Ibadan metropolis, as part of its palliative measures.

The dredging exercise is ongoing, helping to provide instant relief to residents of flood-prone areas where structural interventions are yet to take place.

Work on the long-term investments is ongoing on t he c h a n nel s of Ago d i, Kude t i, O g b e r e, O ro g u n, a s earlier launched, barring the occasional drawbacks by the inclement weather. t "LJO #JEFNJ *CBEBO

was awestricken when the unexpected ensued as the Taliban overwhelmingly conquered Afghan military within days. This is despite being equipped and trained by the best, strongest soldiers on the planet, the US Army. Afghan troops outnumbered the Taliban fighters in a ratio of 300,000 to 80,000. Corruption, cowardice and indiscipline from the senior officers to the rank and file within the Afghan armed forces precipitated their subjugation by the Taliban.

The Taliban was founded in 1994, by Mullah Mohammed Omar, as a movement of religious group of Pashtun descents in Afghanistan. Pashtun is the largest tribe in the caliphate. The group metamorphosed into a jihadist sect whose objective is primarily imposition of its own version of Shariah law on Afghanistan and subsequently the global community. According to security analysts, the group generates bulk of its funds from opium production, drug trafficking, mining in areas under their control and clandestine fundraising.

He who comes into equity must come with clean hands. It is noteworthy that ample members of the sect are drug addicts flaunting holier-than-thou attitude. Amnesty International report in 2015 found Taliban culpable in mass murder and multiple gangrape of Afghan women and children. The sect has committed untold crimes against humanity, contravening the very Islamic law they forcefully impose on Afghan civilians.

Without official documentation from US government, some intelligence luminary fingered CIA (Central Intelligence Agency) in the radicalization of mujahedeen sect, and thereafter enlisted into Taliban through a covert

program code named “Operation Cyclone” to forestall Soviet expansion and encroachment into Afghan territory. Notwithstanding, America has since made lot of sacrifices to instill peace and stability in the country.

Osama bin Laden was until his execution one time most wanted man on earth that spearheaded the September 11, 2001, deadliest terrorist attack on US soil. He fled to Afghanistan for refuge and Taliban sheltered him and his AlQaeda cohorts who were complicit in the attack.

This prompted the US and NATO military invasion of Afghanistan. After execution of Bin Laden by the US Navy SEAL in Abbottabad, Pakistan, and synchronous dislodging of Al-Qaeda terrorist network in the Arabian Peninsula, through former President Obama, America consolidated their hold on Afghanistan to stabilize the country politically and subsequently ramp-up withdrawal of their troops.

It was the longest war in US history; it gulped more than a trillion dollars while more than 2000 American troops paid the ultimate price.

The Taliban’s version of Shariah law forbids host of actions such as education, employment and sport for women, and liberalism for the general populace legitimate in Afghanistan Constitution. The sect is proverbially cruel towards women and mete all sorts of abuse on the feminine gender. In 2012, bloc of the sect in Pakistan attempted to assassinate a young girl named Malala Yousafzai, to retaliate her activism for right to education for the girl-child. A failed plot that sparked global outrage against Taliban brutality.

t #SJHIU $ 4BNTPO CSJHIUTBNTPO !HNBJM DPN

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SUNDAY AUGUST 22, 2021 • T H I S D AY

17

THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER AUGUST 22, 2021

BUSINESS

Editor: Festus Akanbi 08038588469 Email:festus.akanbi@thisdaylive.com

PIA: Financial Experts Raise Prospects of FX Market Stability The excitement over the commencement of the long-awaited Petroleum Industry Act is giving rise to a new wave of optimism that the anticipated Áurry of investments in the oil sector and the planned removal of fuel subsidy will simultaneously boost forex supply and reduce pressure from the market, reports Festus Akanbi

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or obvious reasons, save for the initial and sustained reactions to the signing of the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) into law, discussions in business and economic circles last week dwelt essentially on the instability in the foreign exchange market and the corresponding fall in the value of the naira.

Although the week opened with a measured degree of optimism as naira recorded marginal gains against the 86 dollar at the o΀cial market (Nafest window), analysts said the gain was too insigniÀcant to raise traders· hope in the market.

According to the data posted on the FMDQ 6ecurity (xchange where forex is o΀cially traded, the naira closed at N411.39 per dollar on Wednesday, August 18, 2021 after it closed at 411.50 per $1 on Tuesday, August 17, 2021.

The last time the naira closed at N411.50 on the dot was on August 9.

This marginal gains in the o΀cial market did not reÁect in the parallel market as data posted on abokiFX.com, a website that collates parallel market rates in Lagos showed that the local currency again closed at N515.00 per $1, the same rate it has been trading since August 11.

As the disparity between the o΀cial and parallel market rates continues to widen, economists described the failure of the federal government to fully utilise the nation·s potential as one of the causes of the inadeTuacy of the country·s external reserves put at $33.6 billion as at August 13. The narrative is that the more foreign investment that Áows into the country, the more the fx that is available for productive ventures in the country.

This fact was corroborated by President Muhammadu Buhari who, on Wednesday disclosed that Nigeria lost an estimated $50 billion worth of oil and gas industry investments in 10 years as a result of stagnation in the industry occasioned by uncertainties created by the failure to pass the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB).

PIA to the Rescue The thinking in the government circle is that the signing into law of PIB and the anticipated end to subsidy in the petroleum sector would bring some level of relief to the foreign exchange market.

Although the federal government has clariÀed that the removal of subsidy will not be immediate, Ànancial analysts said the signing of the Petroleum Industry Bill into law last week is an indication that fuel subsidy removal is a matter of time. They believe that while the federal government continues to take its time on when to remove fuel subsidy, the focus should also be put on how to achieve more inÁow of fx into the economy.

One of such industry watchers, who push this kind of narrative is the Executive Director, Cordros Capital Limited, Mr, OlufemiAdemola.

However, as far as he is concerned, “There appears to be no short-term solution(s) to the exchange rate challenges the country currently faces. While our focus has been on the demand for foreign exchange, one of the major drivers of exchange rate sentiment is the supply of the currency to the market. As long as the market views our capacity to generate foreign exchange on a continuous basis as limited, speculators and arbitrageurs would continue to create volatility which pushes the rates up.”

Need for Structural Reforms But does this mean there is nothing that could be done to improve the situation? Speaking about speciÀc measures needed to breathe fresh air into the forex market, Ademola said, “The most

Experts believe anticipated oil sector investments will boost Nigeria’s foreign exchange earnings

eͿective measure will be to seek an improvement in the supply of foreign exchange. Unfortunately, this is not a monetary phenomenon alone. It would also reTuire a signiÀcant level of structural reforms and incentives in addition to monetary intervention to increase export activities and there improve foreign exchange earnings.

“The strong focus and reform of the extractive sectors such as solid minerals and agriculture would boost the currency in the long term.

“The other alternative will be to either change from the managed Áoat (semi-Àxed) currency regime that we practice to a Áoating exchange rate or to restrict the free movement of foreign capital in and out of the country.

“Any of the alternatives will have diͿerent consequences, which are likely to be negative in the immediate term. They would however help to stabilise the exchange rate in the long term. This may not necessarily lead to currency appreciation but it is expected to result in exchange rate stability.”

He explained that this may therefore mean that the monetary authority would be forced to continue with the managed Áoat regime in the immediate term while working with the Àscal authority to reform foreign exchange earning sectors and encourage investments in the sectors with Àscal and monetary incentives.

This, according to him, would continue until the sectors and businesses are able to generate a critical mass of foreign exchange earnings for the country.

When asked to justify the failure of the relative stability in the crude oil price to reÁect on naira value, Ademola explained that “In addition to fundamentals, the currency exchange rate also reacts to sentiments about the host country.

“Fundamentally, it is believed that the stability in the price of crude oil is temporary and may decline in the short term as the eͿect of the Co-

vid-19 pandemic continues to lower demand for oil. The increased use of renewable energy products is also aͿecting the attractiveness of crude oil products as a store of value.

“In addition to the fundamental, the current domestic political situation, especially with the heightened insecurity, is resulting in negative sentiments against the Naira in comparison to other currencies.”

Campaign Spending and Naira Value Although the incumbent administration has rolled out several policies to push up the value of the naira, there are fears from certain quarters that things may get worse by next year when the campaign for the 2023 elections will begin as politicians are bound to start throwing money here and there. So, the next question is what will be the fate of naira when campaigns start?

The Cordros Capital chief also shared the belief that “There is no doubt that the increase in demand for whatever purpose will have an eͿect on the exchange rate due to the limited supply. It gets worse when the demand is not for productive activities. But I am not sure the experience in 2023 will be diͿerent from what we had seen in the past. It would only be that some other sectors would suͿer the inability to access foreign exchange during the election period.

“The new policy of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) on exchange rate would also help to ensure that genuine requests for foreign exchange would be met by the banks; thus reducing the potential fx scarcity during the election period.”

However, some economists believed that President Buhari·s administration is already addressing the issue of the shortage of dollars and the fall in naira values by signing the Petroleum Industry Bill into law. The anticipated removal of fuel subsidy and the attendant removal of pressure on the dollar, according to this school of

thought will positively stabilise the forex market.

According to Head, Retail Investment, Chapel HillDenham,Mr.AyodejiEbo,“Whileothermajor factors like insecurity and FX liquidity play a major role in attracting foreign direct investment into the county, the market-oriented approach can facilitate investment.

“One major concern is the elimination of fuel subsidy which will have a severe impact on Nigerians as the populace is still trying to recover from the havoc caused by COVID-19.

With Oil price around $70 per barrel, landing cost will be close to N300 which is an almost 100 per cent increase if implemented. This will lead to a major price spike across several goods and services which invariably impacts the standard of living. On the other hand, removal of oil subsidy will improve business activities in the downstream sector as the NNPC has been the main importer of petrol in the past few years.”

Ebo was not the only economist who expressed hope that the planned removal of fuel subsidy would give Àrmness to the naira given the anticipated fall in demand for dollars.

Unlocking New Investment Managing Director, Chief Economist, Global Research, of Standard Chartered Bank, Razia Khan, who also shares this view believes that “The passage of long-awaited oil sector legislation in H2 should create more certainty on Àscal terms, unlocking new oil investment.”

She noted that despite higher oil prices, FX reserves remain pressured, falling to $ 33.4bn in June. According to her, a number of factors likely explain this. “The current account remains in deÀcit, with few oͿsetting Áows (although the deÀcit narrowed to $1.75bn in Q1-2021 from $5.4bn in Q4-2020, reÁecting higher oil prices and reduced imports due to limited FX availability).

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THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER AUGUST 22, 2021

SPECIAL REPORT

Buhari

Sylva

Kyari

PIA: A Revolutionary Law and its Many Controversies In a historic move last Monday, President Muhammadu Buhari signed into law the Petroleum Industry Bill, a piece of legislation that will serve as the framework for operations in the oil and gas industry. Having suffered several setbacks for close to 20 years, the bill passed the most tortuous journey in the history of law-making in the country. Emmanuel Addeh writes that the Petroleum Industry Act is a major feat for the current administration but many questions remain unanswered as government begins full implementation of the new law

H

aving faced many impediments in its long walk to consummation, mainly due to key stakeholders’ failure to build consensus, the new petroleum law, now tagged the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) would go down in the annals of Nigeria’s history as one of the most controversial ever.

Even in its passage into law, the issues that have dogged it have refused to subside, but have become more pronounced since the president assented to it a few days ago.

For the whole period that players failed to forge a common front and build consensus, seemingly almost always sticking to their old rigid positions, the country’s oil and gas resources literally bled.

Indeed, so frustrating was the process at a point that the Senate President, Dr Ahmad Lawan, concluded that some “demons” were behind its non-passage.

A Brief History On September 28, 2020, President Muhammadu Buhari sent the bill, an oͿshoot of the Oil and Gas Sector Reform Implementation Committee (OGIC), which was inaugurated on April 24, 2000 under the chairmanship of the late Dr. Rilwanu Lukman, who was the then the Presidential Adviser on Petroleum and Energy, to the national assembly for consideration.

Twelve years earlier, precisely in 2008, ever before the president made the move, discussions that ensued on ways to strengthen the OGIC had produced the Lukman report, which recommended a new regulatory and institutional framework to guarantee greater transparency and accountability in the oil sector.

Eventually, the report formed the basis of the Àrst Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) that was submitted in 2008 as an executive bill under the late President Umar Yar’adua. Since then, the bill had hit several roadblocks.

Thereafter, on the 18th of July 2012, then President Goodluck Jonathan presented a new version of the PIB to the seventh session of the national assembly for consideration and enactment, further throwing it into the front burner of national discourse.

Although it was subsequently split into Petroleum Industry Governance Bill (PIGB), Petroleum Industry Administration Bill (PIAB), Petroleum Industry Fiscal Bill (PIFB) and Petroleum Host Community Bill (PHCB), for easy passage, it still did not see the light of day.

To ensure at least some headway, the PIGB version was eventually approved by the national assembly at some point, but it couldn’t sail through presidential assent and was thereafter returned to the legislature for further work.

Like now, the percentage to be allocated to host communities

in the Niger Delta has largely been a sore point in the passage of the bill.

Although the late Yar’Adua proposed 10 per cent, it was rejected by lawmakers predominantly from the north in the 7th National Assembly.

When Jonathan took over the reins of government, he retained the same 10 per cent , but it was again rejected by the national assembly. It was brought down to 5 per cent in the 8th Senate, it still wasn’t passed into law due to further divergence of opinions.

The recent passage of the bill by the NationalAssemblyAssembly and Monday’s presidential assent has rekindled hope for the oil and gas industry.

At least, some part of the losses established by the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) at over $200 billion cumulatively, may be recouped before oil Ànally goes into extinction.

In a similar assessment of the industry, Financial Derivatives Company Limited (FDC), had in a note indicated that Nigeria’s oil and gas industry was losing as much as $15 billion in investments annually due to the delayed passage of the legislation.

Forty eight hours after signing the legislation into law, Buhari approved a steering committee to oversee the process of its implementation, stressing again that Nigeria lost an estimated $50 billion worth of investments in just 10 years, created by the uncertainty of non-passage of the PIB. Part of the grouse against the bill is that a ‘paltry’ three per cent is allocated to the oil producing communities which bear the brunt of production and exploration, while 30 per cent was approved for Ànding oil in the frontier basins, which many literally interpret as the northern area.

This has further polarised an already divided nation.

Highlights of the New Law Under the new law, its framers and indeed most Nigerians believe the oil and gas industry will have a new opportunity for growth.

Amajor highpoint of the newly-signed law is that it mandates the federal government to conclude the commercialisation of NNPC, which has been described as a behemoth, by February 2022.

Despite all the agitations, the Act retains three per cent for host communities and a whopping 30 per cent for frontier basins.

It creates two regulatory agencies for the oil industry, from which the upstream commission would collect rents, royalties and production share.

It mandates the midstream and downstream authority, the second leg of the two new bodies to collect gas Áare from midstream.

The new law imposes one per cent levy on wholesale price of petroleum products, while oil companies will be sanctioned for

understating proÀts and overstating losses.

In all, the new legislation repeals 10 existing laws, stipulates that the Board of Trustees (BoT) and executive members of host communities board may not be indigenes. It provides that oil producing areas must distribute funds for capital projects (75 per cent), reserve (20 per cent), admin (5 per cent), with the fund to be set up within 12 months.

In addition, the new law deems all employees of NNPC as new staͿ of NNPC limited, which is to be set up, while board appointments will thereafter be made by shareholders and not the president alone.

Further to that, host communities will henceforth forfeit their entitlements from the funds in the event of vandalism. This implies that if it takes N10 to Àx the leak, it will be deducted from the monies available to the areas where the incident took place.

According to the legislation, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) shall be responsible for the technical and commercial regulation of upstream petroleum operations.

It will ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations governing upstream petroleum operations in a manner to minimise waste and achieve optimal government revenues as well as promote healthy, safe, e΀cient and eͿective conduct of upstream petroleum operations.

Also, the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) is to be set up for the technical and commercial regulation of midstream and downstream petroleum operations in the petroleum industry.

Also to be Áoated is the Midstream and Downstream Gas Infrastructure Fund (MDGIF), which shall be funded from 0.5 per cent of the wholesale price of petroleum products and natural gas sold in Nigeria as well as well as grants accruing from multilateral agencies, bilateral institutions and related sources.

It will further see the scrapping of the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) as it currently exists as well as the Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency (PPPRA) and Petroleum Equalisation Fund (PEF).

On the NNPC, it shall cease to exist after its remaining assets, interests and liabilities other than its assets, interests and liabilities transferred to NNPC Limited or its subsidiaries under subsection (1) shall have been extinguished or transferred to the government.

The new law will generally see the deregulation of the sector and ensure strict environmental implementation of policies, laws and regulations for midstream and downstream petroleum operations.

Initial Industry Reactions In his reaction to the promulgation of the new law, the former

19

THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER AUGUST 22, 2021

SPECIAL REPORT PIA: A Revolutionary Law and its Many Controversies President, Nigerian Association of Petroleum Explorationists (NAPE) and current President, European Association of Geoscientists and Engineers (EAGE), Dr. Mayowa Afe, explained that aside the argument over the three per cent or Àve per cent for host communities, the bill is a foundation that can be built upon in the future.

“It’s good news that the president has come all the way from his holiday and on his Àrst day of work assented to the bill. It is good news for all of us. It has been there for 20 years although it’s not perfect. No law is perfect, but we can begin to work on it from here, particularly the three per cent or Àve per cent for the communities.

“Now, we have a law regulating the oil and gas industry and the ones that are not up to what we want, we begin to work on it and there will be a lot of advocacy concerning this,” he said.

In his remarks, President of the Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN), Dr Billis Gillis-Harry, stated that although the bill was largely unfair to the Niger Delta, it wasn’t a bad place to lay a solid foundation for the sector.

He noted that the country’s scarce resources that were being used to fund the petrol subsidy regime will now be used for developmental purposes, saying that the organisation had always supported deregulation.

“As for the three per cent, it is unfair to the Niger Delta that bears the burden of oil production in the country to be so unfairly treated. When you compare this to 30 per cent of NNPC proÀts even as a private company, being reserved for the frontier exploration, it doesn’t add up.” he said.

Chairman, Petroleum Technology Associated of Nigeria (PETAN), Mr Nicholas Odinuwe, in his remarks expressed joy that the bill had been signed into law, adding that the views of the organisation were taken into consideration in the process of consultations.

To Remove Subsidy or Not? If there’s any matter of public interest that has lingered for decades, it is the petrol subsidy issue.

But even with the new law, the federal government has said that it is not immediately embarking on its removal.

Minister of State, Petroleum, Chief Timipre Sylva, noted that although desirable, operationalising the free market regime will require that a lot of economic shock absorbers will be put in place, advising that it would not be advisable to suddenly remove it.

“It (deregulation) is something that is desirable, which I have always said. I’ve never deviated from that. Deregulation is desirable because that is the sustainable way out of where we are. But also, the reality is that deregulation is going to come with some changes.

“And of course, when people have been used to certain behaviours, behavioural patterns which means you’ve been used to subsidy for this long, and you want to change that, you have to have some kind of change management process in place.

“You cannot just change the policy on everybody without looking at some of the problems that this might create. One of which is that we know that this is going to entail increase in price. How do we alleviate the problems that will come with this increase?

“This is not a mindless government. It is a government that really, really cares about the Nigerians. So, we have to really look at all these possibilities of how to at least alleviate the pains and the problems that this increase might occasion.

And that’s why we are taking our time.And that’s why it will not happen overnight.

“But I’m just telling you that there is a provision in PIA that will make this happen, that we have to jointly ensure that we’re able to come up with a workable way of making this happen. And that process is already ongoing,” he stated.

The Frontier Basin Controversy Not a few individuals have argued that the monies allocated to the frontier basins will basically be a slush fund for the areas that are meant to beneÀt from it.

But the minister who also took time to explain the frontier exploration fund, noted that the frontier territories are not only in one area of the country.

“There are frontier territories in Cross River, in the North-east and in the South-west. So, when people just locate frontier territories in one part of the country and settle on that, then there’s a problem,” he argued.

He maintained that Nigeria has had about 37 billion barrels reserve for the past 10 years and has not added to it since then and therefore needs to bring some vigour into this industry. “Nigeria is the ultimate beneÀciary,” he noted.

What’s in it for Host Oil Communities?

As noted earlier , one area of divergence for the whole time the bill lasted in the coolers was the issue of what should fairly accrue to host oil communities who feel the direct impact of oil exploration and exploitation.

In trying to explain this, the Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Mallam Mele Kyari, said the grumbling from a cross-section of oil producing communities in the Niger Delta was unnecessary.

According to him, the three per cent approved under the new petroleum act could even be bigger than what the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) currently gets when computed.

Kyari noted that given about $16 billion total expenditure by the oil and gas sector last year, host oil communities would earn as much as $500 million yearly if the trend continues.

The GMD noted that whereas the oil-producing communities could not determine what projects will be located in their areas before now, from now on, the new legislation will ensure that they largely control their funds and projects in the communities.

“And three per cent of your operating expenditure is a huge number. Many people argue around whether it should be 10 per cent or Àve per cent or three per cent. But percentage of what? I think that’s what most people don’t understand today,” he stated.

Free Market with Restrictions Aside the pending subsidy matter, an area that has also generated heated debate and is indeed seen as contradictory is the part that practically hands over products importation to a very tiny cabal.

In one breath, Section 205 (1) of the new PIAstates that: “wholesale and retail prices of petroleum products shall be based on unrestricted free-market pricing conditions.”

Yet in another breath, Section 317 (8) of the same mandates that: “The Authority shall apply the Backward Integration Policy in the downstream petroleum sector to encourage investment in local reÀning.

“To support this, a licence to import any product shortfalls shall be assigned only to companies with active local reÀning licences,” it said.

But not a few believe that this part was literally lifted from a presentation by a top o΀cial of a major reÀnery owner in the country, who requested when some members of the National Assembly’s Joint Committee on the PIB made a working visit to the construction site of its ongoing reÀnery, asking that importation rights for petrol should be restricted to licenced and active reÀneries in the country.

The new policy will simply enrich a small group of importers, discourage new market entrants and hold Nigerians to ransom, according to the argument.

A Mixed Bag Depending on who’s talking, the new legislation has met with stiͿ criticisms, cautious optimism and praises. While some persons and organisations like the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries and the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) have spoken laudably about it, others have simply condemned it as another piece of law that cannot be implemented.

Describing it as a mere ruse, to do irretrievable violence to Nigeria’s progress, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Chief Mike Ozekhome, said the Act constitutes a direct assault on age-long cherished principles of federalism and the doctrine of separation of powers.

He argued that theAct seeks to attack the provisions of section 162 of the 1999 Constitution, which states that all revenues accruing to the Federation shall be paid into a Federation account from which sharing shall be made amongst the three tiers of government ² the federal, government, the 36 states and the 774 local governments.

He maintained that the NNPC ought to be totally unbundled to make it more viable, but said that as it is, it has further strengthened NNPC’s hand of non-accountability.

Is the Upstream Regulator Delving into Commercial Operations?

Another contentious issue with the PIA was a remark on Wednesday night by Sylva that with the implementation of the new PIA, handling of the sale of crude oil that goes into the federation account, will now be done by the upstream regulatory commission.

He stated that because NNPC limited will be a company that will be operating commercially, it will no longer be dependent on government and

the corporation would stop being the custodian of the crude oil as currently obtains.

“That will no longer happen because NNPC will be a commercial venture, completely decoupled from government and will be operating commercially. So, for the average Nigerian, he will be seeing a more serious NNPC and a more professional NNPC. “Monies will still accrue to the federation account, but NNPC will now have to give the federation crude to the upstream regulatory commission, and NNPC will no longer be in charge of the federation crude, they will be in charge of their own crude.

“The commission will sell that crude and pay to the federation account, so the federation of course will still get their crude, but it will no longer be through the NNPC,” he said.

Some persons’ understanding of that statement was simply that the regulator was moving gradually into the commercial space, a phenomenon that has been criticised in the past.

But the minister clariÀed on Thursday that although the NNPC may still lift the federation crude, it will however, route the money to the joint account through the commission at a fee. Even at that , the issue still remains very controversial.

Governors Make Demands, List Pitfalls The Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF,) has also had its take on the PIA, picking at least six holes in the new law they described as a recipe for disaster.

In a letter signed on their behalf by Chairman of the NGF, Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi, the governors identiÀed Sections 9(4) and (5); 33; 53(2), (3); (4); 54 (1) and (2); 55 (1); and 64(c) as some of the areas they are opposed to. But that was days before the bill was signed into law.

The state chief executives contended that the law will deny states their fair share of the federation account because it favours the federal government and the NNPC. They said rather than reforming the sector, the Act has made the NNPC Limited a more powerful oil company and faulted the removal of the requirement to transfer payments into the federation account as unconstitutional.

“In a previous communication with the leadership of the national assembly, we had noted that Section 53 of the bill provided for the incorporation of the NNPC Limited under CAMA to carry out petroleum operations on a commercial basis.

“In our said letter, we observed that the wording of (3) suggested that only the federal government would have shares in this company and stated that ownership of all the shares in the company shall be vested in government and held by the ministry of Ànance on behalf of government.

“We observed that excluding states from this arrangement precluded them from having a voice in the running and administration of the company and excludes them from sharing in the distribution of dividends when they become due,” the governors maintained.

Generally, the governors raised fundamental issues bordering on the removal of the requirement to transfer Àscal payments to the federation account; 30 per cent proÀt oil and gas as frontier exploration funds; and on the issue of gas Áare penalties.

“We do not believe that in passing this bill, the national assembly gave adequate consideration to every relevant facet of our federation, and this can be a recipe for disaster,” they said.

Ayade Cries Out Although a strong supporter of the Buhari administration, even the Governor of Cross River state, Prof. Ben Ayade, could not hold his displeasure with the law, stressing that the law seeks to perpetuate injustices that the state has suͿered over the years.

Ayade said the law failed to address the concerns of the state in spite of the presentation he made to the relevant senate committee of the National Assembly.

“Cross River State bears the brunt of production, but today the PIB is signed into law, insensitive to the oil impacted communities to which Cross River state belongs.

“In the same PIB, 30 per cent of revenue is set aside for frontier exploration, luckily the Calabar basin which they refused to recognise in that category which stretches from all the mountain basins, cutting across the whole of Bakassi, Biase Odukpani, Okuni, Ogoja, Yala is heavily impregnated with hydrocarbons,” he said.

After nearly two decades, Nigeria has Ànally taken a huge step to unleash the full potential of its hydrocarbons. Hopefully, implementation may not that long to commence.

Lawan

Gbajabiamila

Ozekhome

20

THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER AUGUST 22, 2021

SPECIAL REPORT

OPS: How PIA will End Uncertainties in Nigeria’s Oil, Gas Industry Despite few criticisms trailing the signing into law of the Petroleum Industry Bill last week, members of the Organised Private Sector (OPS), have described the legislation as a development capable of ending uncertainties in the future of the nation’s oil and gas industry, reports Dike Onwuamaeze

Oil workers on duty

L

ast week’s signing into law of the Petroleum Industry Bill

by President Muhammadu Buhari has been hailed by members of the Nigerian Organised Private Sector (OPS) who said the birth of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) would create a level playing Àeld and open windows of opportunities in the nation’s oil and gas sector of the economy.

Reacting to the development, the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), the Nigeria Employers’ ConsultativeAssociation (NECA), and the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), were full of commendations for the federal government’s eͿort, which they said has brought about a renewed optimism for increased inÁow of investments, a boost to revenue generation and job opportunities in the Nigerian economy.

They agreed that the new law has the potential to put an end to the decades of uncertainties concerning the future of the oil and gas industry in Nigeria by providing a robust legal framework that would support the reforms required to position the industry as an investment haven, which could attract investors from across the globe.

Moreover, the PIA as perceived by the OPS would also promote more competition in the country’s oil and gas sector in a manner that could bring about a more e΀cient system, more product choices, and lower prices in the long term.

The OPS remained optimistic despite the anger of the host communities over the three per cent compensation that was allotted to them as well as the criticism of state governments that the bill has left them with an empty can.

Buhari signed the PIB, a piece of legislation that would serve as the framework for the operations in the oil and gas industry into law on Monday, August 16, and ended the bill’s tortuous journey of more than 10 years.

The LCCI’s position was made public in a statement signed by its Director-General, Dr. Chinyere Almona on Thursday.

LCCI: PIA will Put an End to Uncertainties in the Oil, Gas Sector Almona said that the signing into law of the

PIA 2021 by President Buhari was a signiÀcant milestone in the administration of Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.

She said: “We commend the federal government, the National Assembly, and all other stakeholders for this breakthrough after several years of deadlock in previous attempts made by successive governments to develop a comprehensive and practicable legislative framework to regulate the oil and gas industry.

“The new law has put an end to the decades of uncertainties concerning the future of the oil and gas industry in Nigeria. The PIA provides a robust legal framework that will support the reforms required to position the industry as an investment haven that attracts investors from across the globe. With the emergence of a more structured industry, it oͿers a level playing ground that can attract massive Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs) into the country.”

Nevertheless, the LCCI noted that Nigeria could reap the full beneÀts of the PIA 2021 if the federal government would pay attention to the implementation of the provisions of this act in a manner that would ensure that all Nigerians enjoyed the beneÀts from the potential opportunities of the Act. The chamber, in furtherance of the need to ensure that Nigeria would maximise the beneÀts that would accrue from the new legislation, proͿered the following recommendations for a successful and inclusive implementation of the PIA 2021.

First, it drew attention to the need to create more understanding through public enlightenment about the three percent revenue allocation to host communities to forestall a misunderstanding of the government’s intentions, which could raise tensions in the oil-producing region.

“Beyond the enlightenment, there should also be a monitoring mechanism to ensure that the allocated funds are judiciously used for the development of the host communities,” Almona said.

Secondly, the LCCI advised that the government should be Àrm and clear in their communications about the removal of oil subsidies or otherwise since “policy statements inÁuence business decisions.

The divergent statements by diͿerent government o΀cials on the removal of oil subsidies create

uncertainty. This is unhealthy and not standard practice for a sector that hosts billions of dollars of investment.”

The chamber also warned that the unbundling of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) should be done in such a manner that it would not create unnecessary bottlenecks and bureaucracy in contract administration and project management in the oil and gas industry.

It added that the process of unbundling the NNPC should strictly be subjected to the dictates of the Companies andAllied MattersAct (CAMA) and the Code of Corporate Governance (CCG).

Almona said that “the chamber has always advocated a fully deregulated downstream sector of the oil and gas industry and the creation of a level playing ground where market forces are allowed to allocate resources through costreÁective pricing.

“We, however, urge the government to engage with all relevant stakeholders and players in the sector to arrive at an inclusive deregulation policy that creates a competitive business environment where all investors can thrive,” adding that Nigeria needs “to do better with enforcing contracts within the oil and gas industry.”

The Lagos chamber also observed the appointment of an implementation steering committee by the federal government to drive the implementation of this Act was a step in the right direction that demonstrated the government’s commitment to a smooth implementation of the PIA and called on the “Presidency, the Ministry of Petroleum Resources, and other institutions responsible for the implementation of this new law, to put in place a robust mechanism and roadmap, with due consultation with private sector operators and other stakeholders to drive eͿective and e΀cient implementation.”

NACCIMA: Private Sector Key to the Realisation of PIA Objectives In the same vein, the NACCIMA said that it welcomed the enactment of the PIA after a long journey of almost 13 years under three administrations.

The Director-General of the NACCIMA, Ambassador Ayo Olukanni, said: “After a long journey, the association commends this bold and

strategic step to reposition the Nigerian oil and gas sector to restore investor conÀdence and attract much needed Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and local participation.

“Hitherto this sector of the economy stagnated and some principal players placed new investments on hold or even divested existing assets due to perceived unstable legal and policy environment.”

Olakanni surmised that the thrust of the PIA included the unbundling of the NNPC and the commercialisation of its operations and disaggregate regulation from operatorship as well as the accommodation of diverse stakeholders especially the host communities were transformative.

He said: “Arestructured NNPC and ownership structure will help to create a wider opportunity for and space for members and the oil-producing communities to participate. The NACCIMA is however, of the view that for the PIAto achieve its purpose, it needs to be implemented in a structured and disciplined manner in the long term. Such an implementation approach will ensure transparency and focus while reinforcing conÀdence among local and international players.

“It is also the view of the association that the private sector is in a prime position to drive the realisation of the objectives of the PIAand as such should receive the requisite support and policy enablement to play this key role in the upstream, midstream, and downstream segments.

“In the same vein, the association is committed to leveraging the PIA to realise the goals of the decade of gas agenda and become a leading player in monetising Nigeria’s gas assets, generate power, and boost the productive capacity of our industries.”

NECA: Continuous Engagement with Sector Player Non-negotiable For the NECA, the presidential assent to the Petroleum Industry Bill was a landmark decision that is worthy of commendation.

The Director-General of the NECA, Dr. Timothy Olawale, noted that the PIA is expected to herald a positive change in the oil and gas industry. According to Olawale, the Nigerian business community is expectantly looking “forward to a more robust industry with growing investor’s conÀdence and creation of more employment opportunities for the generality of Nigerians.”

He averred that “the relevant changes to the governance, administration, the regulatory and Àscal framework of the petroleum industry will enhance transparency and further position the industry to contribute eͿectively to national development.”

The NECA observed that certain provisions of the PIA were far-reaching with various degrees of implication and consequences for operators in the industry and urged the government “to create a platform of proactive and continuous engagement with the operators in the sector for a smooth implementation of the provisions of the act.

“In addition, the government should, without delay carry stakeholders along in setting the implementation and monitoring actions to ensure maximisation of the beneÀts inherent in the Act” 8QÀQLVKHG %XVLQHVV However, an economist and former DirectorGeneral of the LCCI, Dr. Muda Yusuf, observed that the PIA might not be a perfect legislation because not all the concerns of major stakeholders have been addressed by the legislation but noted that it is surely an improvement over the current legislative framework.

Yusuf said: “I am aware that the oil companies were concerned about the adequacy of the Àscal terms in the PIB. The host communities also have reservations about the percentage contribution to host communities’ funds. But we can always improve on those provisions with time. Issues of this nature are typically work in progress.”

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THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER AUGUST 22, 2021

ENERGY

Examining CBN’s Power Sector Interventions Although not directly an operator in Nigeria’s struggling electricity supply industry, the Central Bank of Nigeria has intermittently interceded to resolve some knotty Ànancing issues in the sector. In this report, Emmanuel Addeh examines how these interventions have impacted the country’s power sector

T

he power sector is not under the direct purview of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), but being a critical economic driver, it is understandable why the country’s apex bank has always been a part time player, as it were,

in the industry.

Usually, the bank bases its assistance in that regard on the need to catalyse Ànancing of the real sector of the Nigerian economy, in accordance with Section 31 of the CBN Act 2007.

In several instances, including the recently approved N300 billion, to be jointly applied to power and airline projects, the bank said it would fast-track the development of electric power projects, especially in the identiÀed industrial clusters in the country.

In addition, the CBN noted that the funds will improve power supply, generate employment, and enhance the living standard of the citizens through consistent power supply and provide leverage for additional private sector investments in the power sector.

Being managed by the Bank of Industry (BOI), the Power andAviation Intervention Fund (PAIF) has the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) as the technical adviser to the fund and is available to any corporate entity, duly registered in Nigeria, involved in electricity power supply value chain that includes power generation, transmission, distribution, gas-to-power projects and associated services.

To reduce the burden on beneÀciaries, the fund allows for a moratorium in the loan repayment schedule of up to Àve years, but could enjoy additional moratorium period of 18 months to address the risk of completion delays.

However, in putting strong mechanisms to ensure that these funds do not end up being another bazaar, the CBN directed that a Technical Adviser (TA) must provide technical support to the programme, review projects to conÀrm eligibility and viability and build capacity of stakeholders.

Aside the recent PAIF, a number of other instances where the apex bank has assisted the industry include the Nigerian Electricity Market Stabilisation Facility (NEMSF) which was Áoated to settle outstanding payment obligations due to market participants during the interim rules period of the market.

Part of the intervention was also to resolve legacy debts owed by the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) to gas suppliers and the Payment Assurance Facility (PAF) extended to Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading (NBET) to settle invoices of generation companies (Gencos) to a minimum level of 80 per cent.

In addition, the CBN has established the Solar Connection Intervention Facility (SCIF) to complement the government’s eͿort of providing aͿordable electricity to rural dwellers through the provision of long-term low interest credit facilities to the Nigeria ElectriÀcation Project (NEP) pre-qualiÀed home solar value chain players.

Although this will increase the overall cumulative exposure of the CBN to the power sector, it will largely promote the deployment of solar power solutions and mini-grids around the country, to drive economic growth.

Before recent interventions, several steps had been taken in the past to provide funds to the generation and distribution companies. SpeciÀcally, the federal government, on 2nd August 2014, extended a N213 billion facility to power generation companies for the purposes of settling certain legacy debts especially those incurred by suppliers of natural gas.

Added to that was the need to pay oͿ monies owed to certain electricity market participants from November 1, 2013; and defraying costs incurred by virtue of infrastructural (especially metering) upgrade by distribution companies.

From the N213 billion set aside for this, N6 billion was preserved for meeting commitments to supply speciÀc volumes of gas-for-power and to negotiate and execute bankable gas supply agreements with power plants.

The CBN also intervened in 2017 with the N702 billion Payment Assurance Facility (PAF)

Power sector infrastructure

with a further extension totalling N1.695 billion to support payment for gas by the Generation Companies (Gencos).

Last year, CBN announced N140 billion support for the Solar Power Naija programme to expand access to power especially in oͿ-grid areas as part of the COVID-19 economic stimulation package.

Any Impact?

While the power sector remains arguably Nigeria’s biggest economic albatross, the achievements of a number of the CBN interventions have cut across the value chain of the power sector.

For example, according to the CBN, the signiÀcant capital expenditure (capex) of the NEMSF in the industry has led to recovery of generating capacity of more than 1,200MW in both hydro and thermal plants through the overhaul of turbines.

Through the NEMSF implementation, most Distribution Companies (Discos) have been able to carry out projected capex through issuance of letters of credit (LCs) for the purchase of over 704,928 meters; rehabilitation of over 332 kilometres (km) of 11 kilovolt (kV) lines and 130km of 0.45KV lines; 511 transformers purchased and installed and construction of 56 new distribution substations as well as acquisition of a mobile injection substation.

The major objective of the CBN interventions, it appears, has been to sustain liquidity in the power sector and ensure the optimal performance of the market.

It is estimated that from 2014, the CBN through various programmes has put in over N1.5 trillion into the sector, partly accounting for why the power sector has not totally collapsed.

Cleaning up Nigeria’s Messy Metering System Years after the privatisation of the power sector, Nigeria’s electricity metering system remains messy and ine΀cient, despite several attempts by previous governments.

So, to support and grow revenue of the power sector, the CBN, recently disbursed about N3.6 billion for the procurement of prepaid meters to stabilise the billing system in electricity consumption in Nigeria as part of its N120.2 billion investments in the distribution companies for infrastructure capital expenditure.

With roughly 55.5 per cent of Nigeria’s 8.3 million electricity customers still without meters in the country, the ongoing CBN intervention, has been described as a game changer by industry players.

Nigerians have also been calling for a complete scrapping of the estimated billing system, which in its very nature has been described as fraudulent.

The apex bank’s assistance in that part of the sector is likely to make a huge change.

This move has been lauded by industry experts, including PwC’s Associate Director, Energy, Utilities and Resources, Habeeb Jaiyeola, who described it as a right step given the fact that without such assistance activities in the sector will remain below par.

“Previous intervention funds have been utilised to settle collection challenges. The plan to use this intervention for infrastructure development is a step in the right direction,” he stated.

According to statistics from the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), over four million registered consumers do not have meters in their properties but were placed on the estimated billing system, a scheme that is largely opaque.

Discos’ Revenue Collection in Steady Rise In January, a THISDAY report indicated that the directive by CBN to Nigeria’s deposit banks to take over the collection of revenues from the power distribution companies had begun to yield positive results.

An analysis of the data at the time showed that Discos posted a record N44.5 billion revenue collection in September 2020, the highest ever recorded by the power distributors, a month after the apex bank gave the directive.

Before the September record, in August 2020, the month the order was given, data released by the Discos in its third-quarter summary of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), indicated that another record was posted, with the collection of just a little less than N44 billion, another record before September.

Last year, a circular signed by the CBN’s Director of Banking Supervision, Mr. Bello Hassan, stated that all electricity collections for services provided

by Discos should henceforth be domiciled in

deposit money banks.

“All energy and non-energy collections of Discos, whether cash or cashless shall only be performed by deposit money banks (DMBs),” the apex bank stated.

But while the argument was that the Discos were under-remitting, the Discos maintained that the invoices received from (NBET) for electricity supplied do not account for losses in transmission and were, therefore, taking that into consideration before remitting any funds.

With the action, the CBN hoped that that guarantor banks will take up continuous due diligence on the Discos they had guaranteed and give the monetary authority full visibility of the cash Áow in the electricity supply industry.

The CBN said in the directive: “The payment or settlement of all NESI related goods or services shall be made through the Nigerian banking system. Consequently, all collections for the payments of NESI regulated goods and services provided by a Disco shall be paid into a designated account.

“This should be done such that collections arising from services rendered by the Disco shall be paid into an account in the sole name of the Disco; collections arising from services rendered by a third party/parties on behalf of the Disco shall be paid into an account in the joint name of the Disco and the third-party vendor(s).

“Any DMB found to be maintaining any account(s) for any entity collecting payments on behalf of any Disco without appropriate authorisation shall have regulatory actions imposed on it.”

Historical Àgures released by the Discos through their umbrella body, the Association of Electricity Distribution Companies (ANED), showed that in September 2016, the Discos only posted just over N25 billion, in September 2017, they recorded about N28 billion, the same period of 2018 was about N33 billion while for 2019, it was less than N36 billion.

While energy bill in the 12 months preceding September 2020 was N690 billion, the actual collection stood at N483 billion, with an outstanding N207 billion still being owed by various end-user customers.

23

THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER AUGUST 22, 2021

DEVELOPMENT

An estate

5HVROYLQJ 1LJHULD·V +RXVLQJ 'HÀFLW Housing is a necessity of life and people-centric governments are not found wanting in ensuring their citizens are catered for. In Nigeria’s context, the federal government is still grappling with the issues of housing deÀcit and no way near bridging the gap. Nevertheless, solutions are being proͿered towards resolving the challenges. Kunle Aderinokun reports

T

o ensure the continuity of human survival there are three basic needs that must be met; food, clothing and housing. It is the duty of the society to provide these basic needs for all, however the provision of these necessities for everyone poses a great challenge. Housing deÀcit is a global phenomenon and it is not in any way peculiar to Nigeria.

Over time the rural urban migration has impacted the balance of the housing industry creating an excess in the rural areas and a deÀcit in the urban areas. Minister of Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola, aptly described the situation during the third edition of Lafarge Africa Plc’s Concrete Ideas series webinar, a credible platform for strategic discussions of critical and topical issues in the area of construction and other sections of its value chain in the construction and built environment saying; “In most of Nigeria’s rural areas, they don’t have housing challenges. Many Nigerians who are sweating for apartments in the city of Lagos, Aba, Port Harcourt, Abuja, Kaduna, etc., probably own four ²Àve-bedroom bungalows in their village, and the houses are empty and unused.”

In 1991, Nigeria’s housing deÀcit was estimated to be about 7 million units and in 2012, according to the statistics released by the National Bureau of Statistics, the housing deÀcit in Nigeria stood at 17 million units.

+RXVLQJ 'HÀFLW The performance of the housing sector is a deciding factor in measuring the health of a nation. Similar to most developed countries, the housing sector is seen as important for stimulating economic growth. Unfortunately, access to aͿordable housing has largely remained an unfulÀlled dream to the vast majority of Nigerians who are particularly in the middle and the lower income class of the society.

Fashola, who chaired the third edition of the Concrete Ideas webinar, with the theme; ‘New Solutions to Nigeria’s Urban Housing,’ , suggested that Nigeria doesn’t have a 17 million or 22 million housing deÀcit because there is no proven data to support that statement or claim; He, however, acknowledged that housing challenges are an urban problem that has risen as a result of rapid urbanization, and so, there is a demand and supply issue.

In the Panel constituting of Arch Sonny Echono, President Nigeria Institute of Architects; Builder Kunle Awobodu of Nigeria Institute of Building; Dr. Ayo Teriba, CEO, Economic Associates; Ms. Amaka Nwaokolo, CEO Blue-Tower House; Ms. Olajumoke Adegunle, Head of Mortar, Lafarge Africa Plc; and Mr. Femi YusuͿ, Head Technical Products and Innovations, Lafarge Africa Plc, and moderated by Arit Okpo, CNN International African Voices Change Makers Host, they identiÀed the

following as some of the problems of housing in Nigeria; Housing aͿordability and accessibility, The issue of a lumpsum payment, The eͿect of high interest and exchange rate on housing Ànance, Abandoned government and private properties unused, EͿects of salinity old buildings, Di΀cult access to land for building, and Local alternatives to imported building materials.

Reiterating the impact of Lafarge Africa Plc in alleviating the situation, Mr. Khaled El Dokani, the Chief Executive O΀cer said: “A lot of these solutions that we have developed can be implemented to solve quite some problems that the panel members have spoken about, through collaboration, coordination, and implementation.”

6ROXWLRQV After much deliberation on the issues, the panelists proͿered the following action plans to remedy the challenges: The National Planning Commission should ensure that the next census in the country must include homeownership and home rental census. It is impossible to solve a problem that we can’t be measured.

The Ministry of Finance, Budget, and National Planning should use its Àscal and monetary policy muscles to bring down the interest and lending rates.

Real estate is capital intensive hence the

need to Àgure out how to provide aͿordable Ànance to players within the space, easing the process of accessing houses. With easy access to Ànancing, the burden will be reduced for the end-users. And then, if Áexible payment systems are introduced, aͿordability now becomes real. In addition, the states’ houses of assembly and the states’ Attorney generals should initiate legislation that will make housing aͿordable to Nigerians.

Furthermore, the panel called on a change in our building method, with special attention to the strata of our population in need of housing. Those who have purchasing power do not want four-bedroom housing, they live in small - spaces now and they carry their back-packs with their laptops and WI-FI; they use the shower, they don’t use baths.

The government should focus on opening up the rural areas with good road networks so that the opportunities that people are coming to town to look for can be closer to them.

Stressing on the new solutions for solving Nigeria’s Housing Needs, Mr. El Dokani, CEO Lafarge Africa said: “Lafarge Africa as a member of Holcim will surely adopt the same measure in Nigeria as our commitment aligns with the global sustainability strategy of building progress for people and the planet.”

Concrete Ideas series is Lafarge’s way of showing its commitment to building a world that is greener, smarter, and works for all through continued policy engagement with key players and stakeholders within the public and private sector.

THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER AUGUST 22, 2021

23

WOMEN ENTERPRENEURS MARIAH OLASEHINDE

Entrepreneurship is a World Full of Unknowns Mariah Olasehinde was born 43 years ago in Surulere Lagos. She attended Air Force Primary School Victoria Island and Aunty Ayo Girls High School Ke΀, Obalende. After Secondary School, she gained admission into the University of Abuja where she bagged a B. A degree in Theatre Arts and graduated in 2001. She later obtained a Master’s degree in Public Administration from Ladoke Akintola University of Technology Ogbomoso, Nigeria.

Olasehinde is a broadcast journalist with over a decade of experience in journalism, she is the CEO of Marbays Communications Ltd, owners of MarbaysTv Online. She is also a media consultant, producer, and presenter of Know Your Representative on TVC News. Marbays Communications is into television production, packaging of documentaries, jingles for both states, government, private and individual organisation. In this interview with Oyinlola Sale, she revealed to us, how she is changing the narrative in the media industry

Y

ou have been in the media industry for over a decade and you are aware of how capital intensive it can be, yet you set out to create Marbays Communication, tell us the story behind it?

you let the fears of starting a business get in your way, how will you ever let your business succeed? Don’t overthink every tiny detail. Have conÀdence in what you’re doing; trust God, pray and believe in yourself that you can make it work out to the admiration of all. Marbays is still a work in progress and by God’s grace, we will get there.

Let’s squash some of the way-toocommon fears of starting a business together and realise that they’re not so scary after all.

Life happens, well after I resigned from TVC News, having experienced how to handle both programmes and news productions, starting with my NYSC at NTA Channel 10, Tejuosho. I worked at DBNTV, NN24TV, TVC News and with the help of God, I decided to open Marbays Communications Limited where we produce documentaries and programmes for both state and federal government, individuals and private organisations, jingles, media consultation, MC, event management, et al. We are a total package when it comes to television production. That’s why our slogan is “Taking Television Production a notch higher”.

We also have our online media platform called MarbaysTv. We have our blog, social media handles on Facebook, Instagram, and the days of Twitter MarbaysTv.

As a media professional, what steps have you taken to change the perception of women in the media?

It depends on the angle you are looking at it from because I don’t know which perception you are talking about. As women, we are multitasking, gifted, strong, and versatile. Most women in the media are doing well in our profession, you know in this profession of journalism we are addressed as gentlemen of the press irrespective of our gender, we are seen as men in this profession.

Using myself as an example, I have shown that it can be done, with the bold step of starting MarbaysTv, I am undaunted in every challenge with guts and grit! It can only get better by the grace of God. :KHQ GLG \RX ÀUVW UHDOLVH \RX ZDQWHG WR be a broadcaster?

As soon as I left secondary school, three professions crossed my mind: law, acting because I studied theatre arts for my Àrst degree, then broadcasting. After my university, I settled for broadcasting and here we are today to the glory of God, am not doing badly.

What did it take to set up Marbays Communications, and what lessons did you learn along the line?

It took a while planning to set it up.

Setting up Marbays Communications for me is putting God Àrst, like the scripture says write the vision make it plain upon tables that he may run that readeth it. Focus, determination, tenacity, success is a long term journey.

There’s no quick Àx, you will make mistakes, you will have challenges but for you to succeed, you must be disciplined, resilient, and make sacriÀces. I’m still learning the journey is not easy though we thank God for su΀cient grace. +RZ GLG \RX PDQDJH WR ÀQDQFH WKLV

Olasehinde

company, in its early days?

We are just a year and a half in the communications business to the glory of God. Initially, we had to rent equipment for production until we had our inhouse programme Know Your Representative which airs on TVC News.

Know Your Representative is a 30-minute programme that captures the untold stories of the good work of Nigerian lawmakers in their constituencies. The unique selling point of this programme is to sell the unsung developmental projects of every lawmaker from local to state and federal levels.

I have had a guest like Distinguish Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, former. Deputy Senate President, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, Senator Kabiru Gaya, Senator Tolu Odebiyi, Senator Solomon Adeola, Senator Ibrahim Shekarau, Senator Abba Kyari, Senator Bala Ibn’ Na’ Allah, Senator Tanko Almakura, Senator Yusuf Yusuf, Hon. James Faleke, Hon.Eniola Badru, Hon. Kolawole Lawal, Hon.Jimoh Ojugbele, Hon. Ajuloopin, Hon. Bamidele Salam,

Hon. Ayeni just to mention a few.

What were some of your biggest fears when you decided to create Marbays Communications?

Fear of starting, fear of failure, fear of rejection, fear of what will people say and you know what, that question has ruined or rather killed a lot of businesses.

Entrepreneurship is a world full of unknowns. As a business owner, you’re constantly asking yourself questions after questions, letting the fears of starting a business take over the forefront of ideas you’ve been working so hard to make a reality.

And then what about you—you as a business owner who needs to make money to survive?

When you’re Àrst starting, there’s the fear of not having a stable paycheck.

And a fear of being so consumed by work that you’ll end up spending all of your time alone.

There’s a lot of newness and plenty of unknowns during this time, but if

Yes, you are right. They are not too scary at all but if you don’t have the required capital, it’s a big problem, SD\PHQW RI VWD; VDODULHV D PXVW EXW LI WKH jobs are not coming how do you pay your VWD;" It’s your vision then you called them to join you, they have families, challenges and they also have bills to pay so how you source for funds it’s not their business as long as they come to work, you have to pay.

I have had staͿ saying the pay is small compared to what they put in, they want salary increase after one-month o, I just laughed because there is a job to do doesn’t mean the money is coming in but because you want to remain in business some jobs are done on credit believing God that your client will pay as at when due.

Everyone is scared of failing but we forget that not attempting to do it all is a failure in itself. We don’t pray to fail but if you do count your losses, experienced gained in the process of failing then move on. There’s an adage in Yoruba that says If a horse falls you or betrays you, you will climb it again in this time around you change your strategy.

I don’t think entrepreneurs are superhuman, we should embrace failure as the paving stones to success. Entrepreneurs know failing just means you had the guts to try, and you’re continuing to try until you get it right.

If you’re too afraid to fail at all, you’ll be caging yourself in a small corner of the world—a corner where you’re essentially risking every opportunity to grow.

What is the size of Marbays Communications presently and what are your growth projections over the next ÀYH \HDUV" We are still very small, with a staͿ strength of 8 -10. You know when you are running a small business, every day is so busy that it can be hard to Ànd time for long-term planning. Who can think years ahead while trying to make payroll in a week?

Our Àve-year plan by the grace of God covers our business’ current functions and practices as well as its goals. We intend to be a full TV household name competing with the likes of Channels TV, TVC News, and even international stations if we get the right people who are willing to partner and invest with us. We are working hard at it, with God helping us it’s achievable.

24

T H I S DAY, T H E S U N DAY N E W S PA P E R • AUGUST 22, 2021

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

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

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

floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

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

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

GUIDE TO DATA: Date: All fund prices are quoted in Naira as at 19Aug-2021, unless otherwise stated.

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

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

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

DAILY PRICE LIST FOR MUTUAL FUNDS, REITS and ETFS

MUTUAL FUNDS / UNIT TRUSTS

AFRINVEST ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD aaml@afrinvest.com Web: www.afrinvest.com; Tel: +234 818 885 6757 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Afrinvest Equity Fund 156.46 157.82 -3.35% Afrinvest Plutus Fund 100.00 100.00 4.87% Nigeria International Debt Fund 319.90 319.90 -17.60% Afrinvest Dollar Fund 109.07 109.07 -2.66% ALTERNATIVE CAPITAL PARTNERS LTD info@acapng.com Web: www.acapng.com, Tel: +234 1 291 2406, +234 1 291 2868 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ACAP Canary Growth Fund N/A N/A N/A ACAP Income Funds N/A N/A N/A AIICO CAPITAL LTD ammf@aiicocapital.com Web: www.aiicocapital.com, Tel: +234-1-2792974 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AIICO Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 7.51% AIICO Balanced Fund 3.30 3.46 -2.88% info@anchoriaam.com ANCHORIA ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED info@anchoriaam.com Web:www.anchoriaam.com, Tel: 08166830267; 08036814510; 08028419180 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Anchoria Money Market 100.00 100.00 7.76% Anchoria Equity Fund 140.93 142.57 5.95% Anchoria Fixed Income Fund 1.13 1.13 -14.99% ARM INVESTMENT MANAGERS LTD enquiries@arminvestmentcenter.com Web: www.arm.com.ng; Tel: 0700 CALLARM (0700 225 5276) Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ARM Aggressive Growth Fund 19.66 20.25 8.39% ARM Discovery Balanced Fund 432.31 445.35 7.98% ARM Ethical Fund 38.17 39.32 13.24% ARM Eurobond Fund ($) 1.09 1.09 -1.21% ARM Fixed Income Fund 0.97 0.97 -7.49% ARM Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 8.21% AVA GLOBAL ASSET MANAGERS LIMITED info@avacapitalgroup.com Web: www.avacapitalgroup.com Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AVA GAM Fixed Income Dollar Fund 105.77 105.77 3.99% AVA GAM Fixed Income Naira Fund 1,018.81 1,018.81 1.88% AXA MANSARD INVESTMENTS LIMITED investmentcare@axamansard.com Web: www.axamansard.com; Tel: +2341-4488482 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AXA Mansard Equity Income Fund 134.38 135.32 6.50% AXA Mansard Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 9.62% CAPITAL EXPRESS ASSET AND TRUST LIMITED info@capitalexpressassetandtrust.com Web: www.capitalexpressassetandtrust.com ; Tel: +234 803 307 5048 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn CEAT Fixed Income Fund 2.02 2.02 -9.62% Capital Express Balanced Fund(Formerly: Union Trustees Mixed Fund) 2.13 2.17 -7.22% CARDINALSTONE ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED mutualfunds@cardinalstone.com Web: www.cardinalstoneassetmanagement.com ; Tel: +234 (1) 710 0433 4 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn CardinalStone Fixed Income Alpha Fund 1.01 1.01 2.46% CHAPELHILL DENHAM MANAGEMENT LTD investmentmanagement@chapelhilldenham.com Web: www.chapelhilldenham.com, Tel: +234 461 0691 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Chapelhill Denham Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 8.02% Paramount Equity Fund 16.64 16.95 4.06% Women's Investment Fund 137.13 138.73 3.05% CORDROS ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmgtteam@cordros.com Web: www.cordros.com, Tel: 019036947 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Cordros Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 7.56% Cordros Milestone Fund 2023 119.50 120.27 Cordros Milestone Fund 2028 N/A N/A Cordros Dollar Fund ($) 107.97 107.97 CORONATION ASSEST MANAGEMENT investment@coronationam.com Web:www.coronationam.com , Tel: 012366215 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Coronation Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 7.72% Coronation Balanced Fund 1.21 1.22 0.57% Coronation Fixed Income Fund 1.39 1.39 -12.20% EDC FUNDS MANAGEMENT LIMITED mutualfundng@ecobank.com Web: www.ecobank.com Tel: 012265281 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class A 100.00 100.00 8.31% EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class B 1,000,000.00 1,000,000.00 7.68% EDC Nigeria Fixed Income Fund 1,145.83 1,161.73 -0.52% FBNQUEST ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD invest@fbnquest.com Web: www.fbnquest.com/asset-management; Tel: +234-81 0082 0082 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn FBN Fixed Income Fund 1,404.32 1,404.32 11.08% FBN Balanced Fund 190.87 192.21 1.70% FBN Halal Fund 111.92 111.92 8.35% FBN Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 9.31% FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Retail FBN Smart Beta Equity Fund FCMB ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED Web: www.fcmbassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 1 462 2596 Fund Name Legacy Money Market Fund Legacy Debt Fund Legacy Equity Fund Legacy USD Bond Fund FSDH ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD Web: www.fsdhaml.com; Tel: 01-270 4884-5; 01-280 9740-1 Fund Name Coral Balanced Fund Coral Income Fund Coral Money Market Fund

126.75 156.48

126.75 3.79% 159.79 3.51% fcmbamhelpdesk@fcmb.com

Bid Price 1.00 3.96 1.60 1.18

Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn 1.00 5.67% 3.96 2.39% 1.63 4.97% 1.18 4.24% coralfunds@fsdhgroup.com

Bid Price 3,712.92 3,358.16 100.00

Offer Price 3,776.68 3,358.16 100.00

Yield / T-Rtn -0.72% 2.50% 3.53%

GREENWICH ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmanagement@gtlgroup.com Web: www.gtlgroup.com ; Tel: +234 1 4619261-2 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Greenwich Plus Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A Nigeria Entertainment Fund N/A N/A N/A GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmanagement@gdl.com.ng Web: www.gdl.com.ng ; Tel: +234 9055691122 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn GDL Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A INVESTMENT ONE FUNDS MANAGEMENT LTD enquiries@investment-one.com Web: www.investment-one.com; Tel: +234 812 992 1045,+234 1 448 8888 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Abacus Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 7.86% Vantage Balanced Fund 2.68 2.75 -6.00% Vantage Guaranteed Income Fund 1.00 1.00 4.50% Kedari Investment Fund (KIF) 152.39 152.66 -2.00% Vantage Equity Income Fund (VEIF) - June Year End 1.27 1.32 1.10% Vantage Dollar Fund (VDF) - June Year End 1.09 1.09 0.41% LOTUS CAPITAL LTD fincon@lotuscapitallimited.com Web: www.lotuscapitallimited.com; Tel: +234 1-291 4626 / +234 1-291 4624 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Lotus Halal Investment Fund 1.43 1.45 4.86% Lotus Halal Fixed Income Fund 1,145.16 1,145.16 5.47% MERISTEM WEALTH MANAGEMENT LTD info@meristemwealth.com Web: http://www.meristemwealth.com/funds/ ; Tel: +234 1-4488260 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Meristem Equity Market Fund 11.46 11.49 9.32% Meristem Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 7.65% PAC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD info@pacassetmanagement.com Web: www.pacassetmanagement.com/mutualfunds; Tel: +234 1 271 8632 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn PACAM Balanced Fund 1.66 1.69 7.16% PACAM Fixed Income Fund 11.52 11.51 -5.27% PACAM Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 5.44% PACAM Equity Fund 1.66 1.67 4.84% PACAM EuroBond Fund 112.81 114.65 2.69% SCM CAPITAL LIMITED info@scmcapitalng.com Web: www.scmcapitalng.com; Tel: +234 1-280 2226,+234 1- 280 2227 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn SCM Capital Frontier Fund 131.76 134.35 8.60% SFS CAPITAL NIGERIA LTD investments@sfsnigeria.com Web: www.sfsnigeria.com, Tel: +234 (01) 2801400 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn SFS Fixed Income Fund 1.05 1.05 10.10% STANBIC IBTC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD assetmanagement@stanbicibtc.com Web: www.stanbicibtcassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 1 280 1266; 0700 MUTUALFUNDS Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Stanbic IBTC Balanced Fund 3,290.52 3,325.52 2.45% Stanbic IBTC Bond Fund 232.39 232.39 3.35% Stanbic IBTC Ethical Fund 1.22 1.24 4.24% Stanbic IBTC Guaranteed Investment Fund 306.05 306.05 3.87% Stanbic IBTC Iman Fund 224.93 228.28 3.06% Stanbic IBTC Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 8.16% Stanbic IBTC Nigerian Equity Fund 10,399.36 10,550.37 -0.89% Stanbic IBTC Dollar Fund (USD) 1.27 1.27 3.46% Stanbic IBTC Shariah Fixed Income Fund 115.32 115.32 3.82% Stanbic IBTC Enhanced Short-Term Fixed Income Fund 103.10 103.10 UNITED CAPITAL ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD Web: www.unitedcapitalplcgroup.com; Tel: +234 01-6317876 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn United Capital Balanced Fund 1.30 1.32 1.97% United Capital Bond Fund 1.91 1.91 4.21% United Capital Equity Fund 0.87 0.89 9.90% United Capital Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 9.23% United Capital Eurobond Fund 119.83 119.83 4.21% United Capital Wealth for Women Fund 1.06 1.08 3.98% United capital Sukuk Fund 1.06 1.06 5.98% QUANTUM ZENITH ASSET MANAGEMENT & INVESTMENTS LTD service@quantumzenithasset.com.ng Web: www.quantumzenith.com.ng; Tel: +234 1-2784219 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Zenith Equity Fund 12.90 13.01 8.67% Zenith Ethical Fund 14.24 14.37 16.58% Zenith Income Fund 24.29 24.29 1.28% Zenith Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 6.21%

REITS NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

125.34 51.90

10.92% 2.86%

Bid Price

Offer Price

Yield / T-Rtn

13.38

13.48

1.19%

122.04 97.59 17.46 18.25

125.09 99.73 17.56 18.35

1.50% -1.64%

Fund Name SFS REIT Union Homes REIT

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

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

funds@vetiva.com Bid Price

Offer Price

Yield / T-Rtn

3.91 5.56 17.63 1.00 19.72 155.36

3.95 5.64 17.73 1.00 19.92 157.36

3.44% -2.20% 8.60% 6.31% -3.88% -29.25%

NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

107.40

13.11%

INFRASTRUCTURE FUND Fund Name Chapel Hill Denham Nigeria Infrastructure Debt Fund

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

SUNDAY AUGUST 22, 2021 • T H I S D AY

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THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER AUGUST 22, 2021

IMAGES

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hotographs of dignitaries at the coronation of the 21st Olu of Warri Kingdom, Ogiame Atuwatse III at Ode Itsekiri, the ancestral home of Iwere people in Warri South Local PHOTOs: Sylvester Idowu Government Area of Delta State…yesterday

The new Olu of Warri Kingdom, Ogiame Atuwatse III

Atuwatse III arriving Ode Itsekiri for the coronation ceremony

Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi

The Igba of Warri Kingdom, Chief Rita Lori-Ogbebor and other chiefs

L-R: Former Governor of Delta State, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan and Hon. Daniel Mayuku

A cross-section of Itsekiri women

Choral traditional dancers thrilling guests during the occasion

T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R ˾ AUGUST 22, 2021

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IMAGES

D

ignitaries at the presentation of Staff of Office to the Second Emir of Bichi, one of the four Emirates created in Kano, His Royal Majesty, Alhaji Nasiru Ado Bayero …yesterday PHOTOS: Ibrahim Shuaibu

L-R: Deputy Governor of Kano State, Dr Nasiru Yusif Gawuna; Emir of Bichi, Alhaji Nasiru Ado Bayero; and Governor Abdullahi Ganduje

Chief of Staff to the President, Professor Ibrahim Gambari congratulating the new Emir

Cross-section of traditional rulers

Sultan of Sokoto Muhammad Saad Abubakar delivering his address

L-R: Minister for Agriculture, Alhaji Sabo Nanono; Chief of Staff to the President, Professor Ibrahim Gambari; Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State; Emir of Bichi, Alhaji Nasiru Ado Bayero; Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje; a guest; and Deputy Governor, Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna

L-R: Emir of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero; Emir of Bichi, Alhaji Nasiru Ado Bayero; and Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Saad Abubakar III

L-R: Chief of Staff to the President, Professor Ibrahim Gambari; OPEC Secretary General, Dr. Muhammad Barkindo; Minister of Defence, Maj. Gen. Bashir Magashi (rtd); Minister for Agriculture, Alhaji Sabo Nanono; Emir of Kano; and SSA to the President on Media and Publicity, Mallam Garba Shehu

Emir of Bichi delivering his acceptance speech

Cross section of traditional rulers

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SUNDAY AUGUST 22, 2021 • T H I S D AY

SUNDAY AUGUST 22, 2021 • T H I S D AY

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SUNDAY AUGUST 22, 2021 • T H I S D AY

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WEEKLY PULL-OUT

22.8.2021

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orn in Igbere, Abia State to Pa Anyim, he was christened Ekeoma, a name with different connotations.

The Igbo name can refer to something good, extraordinary, fruitful or wealthy. While he was not born with a silver spoon, his name would later speak to his enduring and very impressive resources.

The business tycoon who many know today as Ekeoma Eme Ekeoma didn’t have a rosy upbringing. At 19, Ekeoma arrived in Lagos with a bag of dreams alongside his Uncle. Two months later, he started his career.

Ekeoma still cherishes the beautiful memory of Lagos back in the 80s. As he spoke, you can see the glitter in his eyes as if he was transported to the past.

Even though computer literacy was not widespread yet, Ekeoma disclosed that Lagos was still the commercial nerve.

Back then, securing a job as an SSCE holder was easier than it is today with a first degree. The economy was good and the exchange rate was stable.

With corporate corporations like Dumez Nigeria Ltd, Michelin, Berliet, and SGen Ltd, dotting every available space, Broad street was a commercial hub. There was also UAC. Behind Mandilas building were a lot of fashion stores where one could get a variety of Italian fashion items from the Europeans. This was where Ekeoma usually shopped for his footwear.

“I remember getting a pair of Italian shoes for N62 in 1985. It is so unlike now when the Asian Tigers have taken over that space and the country at large,’’ Ekeoma said with nostalgia.

Born and raised in the north, in Zango-Kataf, Zonkwa Local Government Area in present-day Kaduna State, Ekeoma brought his whole family back to the east. His mother was a trader, while his father was a civil servant father who spent most of his time in service working in the north. He worked for the Nigerian Telecommunications Limited NITEL. After the civil war, the rest of his family stayed back in the east except his father who had to go and resume work again in the north.

Young Ekeoma had to stay under the tutelage of his uncle who taught him basic life principles. Unfortunately, his uncle died at 73. His father later passed, leaving his mother, now an octogenarian and very much alive.

Like most children born and raised in the north, Ekeoma can manage a conversation and communicate in Hausa fairly well.

While talking about his wife whom he thinks is more entrepreneurial than he is, he smiled, grateful for their journey together so far.

“I am risk-averse and more regimented,” he said while reflecting on the 32-year old marriage.

“It’s just the grace of God. Marriage is a work in progress. Grace, maturity, emotional stability, my Christian values, and most importantly, the finger of God has kept my marriage going. When Christ arrested me at 31, that helped to shape my life and stabilise my marriage.

Although it took a while, I went through the process.”

His wife, Ngozi, is very supportive, and according to him, she is not a

EKEOMA EME EKEOMA What Matters Most to Me is to Make an Impact Forever young and ebullient, the Chairman, Nepal Oil and Gas, Elder Ekeoma Eme Ekeoma wears many hats- a successful business tycoon, philanthropist, and an elder. With a life hinged on raw and selfless commitment, the discovery of a higher purpose; his passion for family values, friends and the community is quite infectious. Having made an impact in the secular world for over four decades, one thing, however, has consumed him- his unwavering passion for his calling. With humour and humility, he speaks with Adedayo Adejobi, on the unique essence of being a grandfather, his spirituality and his philanthropic initiatives

ASSISTANT EDITOR OLUFUNKE OLAODE/funkola2000@gmail.com

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THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ AUGUST 22, 2021

COVER I don’t desire to be like any of the big ministers… I just want to make an impact in my little corner.

mistake.

“She is beautiful inside-out, and beautiful at heart. We have been together for almost 32 years, and I am only trusting God for a better tomorrow in our relationship. People must also accept the challenges that come with it. A relationship may look rough at the beginning but at the end, it’ll turn out good.’’

Interestingly, Ekeoma pointed out that none of his uncles has had a divorce case, alluding to the great value placed on marital stability and the sanctity of marriage by his family members.

Coming of age and striking 61 feels great for this business mogul, grandfather and grandfather. But in 2020, he faced the challenge of being infected with Covid-19. Today, he feels indebted to his maker for his clean bill of health. Looking back on his Covid-19 experience, he has had firsthand experience of all the associated discomforts that come from the illness. To him, having the virus was like the hand of God pointing him to the obvious: Coronavirus does not discriminate.

It birthed the consciousness of living in him. His health took the fore.

Exercises have been incorporated into his day. Healthy meals, routine checks, and other paraphernalia to keep his health in tandem with his mind are in full swing. ’’To be alive in great health is the best type of wealth we can truly desire aside from the knowledge of Christ.

Now, I take my exercise seriously compared to what it was before. After the pandemic, I ran loads of tests.

Before then, I was sparingly doing my exercises. But today, it has become part of my daily routine. The only times I rest are on weekends and when I have speaking engagements. I have also become extremely sensitive to the things of the spirit. No matter how long you may think you’ve enjoyed living, this life is too short. And so, for the time we are here, one must strive

The Ekeoma Clan

to stay physically and spiritually healthy in order to make an impact,” he said.

Being a father to his beautiful Ezinne, Alex, Ifeoma, and Daniel leave his heart arching with joy. Through Ezinne, he has become a grandfather to three boys, and he looks forward to many more of the grandchildren through his boys in no distant future.

Away from family, Ekeoma is heavily invested in the business and spreading the gospel and general ministry works. His passion for pushing the truth into open and fallow spaces of falsehood is the fuel driving him to do all he can to make sure the gospel reaches the end of the world. His business is in the hands of professionals and that frees him time to chase after things of God wholeheartedly. This is the sphere through which he is making an impact.

“Man is born for an impact, and I am strongly convinced that there can be no impact to make than to navigate on the part of spirituality. The spiritual takes precedence over the mundane things. You must have a spiritual start to gauge and determine events that take in your day-to-day living.

Considering the fact that I have been created to make an impact in the world, my interests, passion, and everything I do have become geared towards the things of God,” he added.

In his view, ministry work is a herculean task; not for the faint-hearted. It’s far more demanding than the glamour that many see on the outside.

“I have a lot of regard for some of the ministers in the country. It’s not a joke having such a large congregation of followers. I wonder how some of them are even able to take a break. The work of the ministry is quite tedious. And it is highly sacrificial.

Sometimes we look at the allure of the job without taking time to appreciate the many spiritual battles they fight to sustain the ministry. I can tell you that there are committed people who have given their all because it is extremely tasking. The ministry calls for accountability and transparency. And we are all accountable to God, irrespective of ministry and calling,” he mused.

Believers Fellowship is a nondenominational fellowship that he presides over with attendees from Ikoyi, Victoria Island, and Lekki. Folks from the mainland are also inclusive.

Ekeoma has a balanced view of money; giving life to the popular Yoruba adage that says ‘a giver’s hand is always atop.’

“There is a hand that gives freely and that person who gives freely opens up himself to more wealth. The one that is tight-fisted will soon come to poverty.

There is no way you can invest in your fellow human or the body of Christ, and God will not expand your coast. A lot of people who are buried in wealth creation live a life of complete imbalance. A lot of people are slaves to money. Some lack quality time with their families all in the quest to acquire wealth.

“Money may guarantee the luxuries of life, but it does not guarantee happiness and joy. No doubt, we need money to live comfortably, but it’s just a means to an end. So, wealth without contentment in poverty. I say so because you will never know when to apply the brakes. There are things in life that are more important than money. It’s good to work hard because if you don’t, you cannot take care of many gaps. We must, however, strike the right balance at all times.”

Ekeoma may not be the richest Nigerian on earth but he is incredibly generous to good causes. He reaches out to various prisons and less-privileged communities in the hinterlands of some Southwestern and Southeastern Nigerian states. One passion Ekeoma has invested in is the prison ministry, but unfortunately, the horrendous state of the roads has made it impossible to access most of these prisons, especially the maximum-security prisons. Compassion and empathy filled his voice as he talked about issues of welfare, health, and more importantly, legal access.

“About this time three years ago on

my birthday, we were able to secure the release of about 300 prisoners. The Lord laid it on my heart and I took heed to His instruction. That someone has gone to prison is not the end of life,” he said.

Going back to his age and how he feels, he was quick to dismiss feeling old. Rather he pointed at biblical Moses who at 120 years showed no sign of aging.

“Even as I speak with you, I don’t think about age. My life is powered by grace and I have that peace that surpasses all human understanding. Inwardly, I still feel the same way I felt when I was 50, eleven years ago.”

Ekeoma believes there’s still a lot left undone. He believes as long as there’s still a lost soul out there, his impact is yet undone.

“When I look around and see the hardship and sufferings of Nigerians, what matters to me most is to make an impact.

What matters to me is that our country should become a better country. The good of this nation comes first. God has been so good. I’m grateful for good health, a good family, a loving and hardworking wife.

There is nothing to ask for than for Him to grant me the grace to do the job. He has asked me to do it - and that, for me, matters most.”

At 61, Ekeoma looks younger and agile.

One secret that keeps him going is contentment, not keeping grudges and he returns hate with unconditional forgiveness.

Ekeoma has also drawn inspiration from Martin Luther King (Jnr), Cathryn Coleman, and the legend, Nelson Mandela. He unwinds with a sit-down to a good healthy conversation over a cup of tea or coffee and exercises help to unknot his nerves.

As one who is very optimistic about Nigeria, he expressed his confidence in the future of the country.

“There are loads of challenges enough to make us afraid and rethink our optimism, especially with the levels of banditry and kidnapping. Whoever wants to continue on the path of wickedness will get the reward.

They will definitely quit the stage, either by age, sickness, or when life expires. We cannot continue this way. Nigeria is for God. There’s a lot of hope for this country.”

THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ AUGUST 22, 2021

57

GLITZ FOCUS

BOLAJO FAWEHINMI

Championing a Cause for Nigerian Models on Global Stage She is a trained accountant whose passion lies in fashion. Furnished with dreams and aspirations, she is Nigeria’s leading contributor to the fashion value chain, especially in the modelling industry. Bolajo Fawehinmi, the Chief Executive Officer of FEW Model Management, in this chat with Funke Olaode and Sunday Ehigiator, revealed her renewed drive to champion a new cause for Nigerian models on the global stage.

H

Fawehinmi

er lineage name rings a bell in law, activism and philanthropy. Perhaps, the image of the renowned human rights lawyer, late Gani Fawehinmi cuts through the mind. In recent time, Fawehinmi’s name resonates through one of his nieces, Bolajo Fawehinmi.

Bolajo holds a bachelor’s degree in Accounting from the Obafemi Awolowo University, and a Professional and Leadership Development Degree from Harvard Business School. She took interest in modelling and has been a game changer on the international stage. Despite her passion and commitment to her new cause, her parents held a contrary view of her career path.

Starting off as an athlete before discovering her passion for modelling at the university, Bolajo has been a modelling talent-scout and manager since 2015. Famed for her talent in spotting talents, she has repeatedly demonstrated her ability to make world-standard models out of people who never thought they could be one.

“I used to do the high jump and long jump,’’ she recalled. My major was relay and 200-metre race for women. But that story changed when I got into college. Modelling happened when I got to college and obviously, I couldn’t juggle it. So, I picked modelling.”

As the first child of her mother and the ninth child to her polygamous father, Bolajo didn’t allow the discouragements from her parents and other challenges in the industry to weigh her down or slack in the pursuit of her dreams.

She recalled those rough beginningswhen the idea of starting her modelling company left a sour taste on parents’ mouth.

They’d wonder if you’ve studied accounting, why would you end up a model; it doesn’t even work together.

“So, I could understand. But at the time, I didn’t think I was going to accept it. I had met models, they were my friends, and I understood what they were facing in the industry, who they were and who their parents were.”

She said this also birthed her drive to create different narratives of how modelling should be perceived both in Nigeria and all over the world. That was the genesis of creating a company that gives the platform and opportunities to other kids like herself to live their dreams.

“I didn’t even have a dream to become a model and I didn’t even have a dream to own a company that would now represent models or discover models. So, it was never really a dream.

“I think I had more dreams in the athletic field, like I wanted to become this. I was also hungry for that space you know, but I think FEW came about because I felt like there has to be a voice in that industry.

“I was a model, I met good people, I met intelligent people. My parent’s point was that they didn’t believe in the intellectual capacity of models. They believed that they had the resources to send me anywhere I want to be in the world and they just didn’t believe that models had or were kids from good homes.”

Reminiscing on her journey, Bolajo

described it as being more delicate than remarkable.

“I wouldn’t say it was easy, but we are in a good space now and I am happy that I can see a lot of other young entrepreneurs being able to go into this business just because we were able to go through it with a certain force.

“We have also tried to break some boundaries to make sure that Africa is seen in a certain way, and once Africa is seen in that way as we want, it will create more opportunities for young people.

“I think we took a lot of heat, you know, being the first mover of that space. I mean, technically just going at it in the way we went at it. To see where we are right now, maybe that’s the remarkable factor.

“It was really bad then. It was no fault of anyone, but it was really bad. We were paid the worst you can think of. Some days, we go to work and we don’t get paid and we were more than happy to do it because at the end of the day, satisfaction comes from passion.”

While expressing gratitude that she never encountered any form of harassment while growing up in the industry, Bolajo however condemned the level of harassment encountered by models while chasing their dreams.

She said, “Although, nature gave me the space to fall into the right hands, I wouldn’t dispute the fact that there were models that have been harassed by the virtue of them wanting to go into modeling.

“It’s even worse in the commercial space.

There’s only little harassment or close to none that you can do in fashion. It’s more in the commercial world.

“I can really feel the pains of the commercial models with the level of harassment that they have to go through on different levels, on different stages.

We just need to do better as humans. But I think that for me, I’ll speak more on finances.”

For her, it has been quite remarkable to see improvements on the remuneration of models overtime.

“There has been a whole lot from then to now.

Even the welfare of the models has improved. Then, we weren’t duly taken care of. We weren’t also seen as people whose opinions mattered. It was just like we were just cloth hangers basically and hangers don’t talk. I’ve seen us revolt against something and it became an issue. They will tell you, ‘You’re a model, why are you going against this, why are you fighting this course, you should be able to do this’.

“I think now there is a difference. We now have a generation of people that can speak out for themselves, that can stand for themselves so those things are less visible now.

“People can now actually say, I can’t work for this amount of money unless it’s this. But note, you can choose to work for whatever pay but if the pay is not within the vicinity of where you are working, nobody can provide it to you.”

She added that models are more valued now in the chain, as people are beginning to raise their budgets for models and seeing them as worthy of their demand.

Still, she urged entrepreneurs and upcoming models not to make money the sole reason for establishing their brands, as it could make them dead to a lot of rules.

“I didn’t have that coming up. I was okay with starting a business and I made a dissemination to myself that part of the things I was going to change in the modeling industry is also financing models.

“So I made sure that the budgets for models were always higher than what they could have gotten working elsewhere. I mean if you go on set as a model and you hear that a model is getting paid like two times of what you are earning, the word goes around. “So I think overtime, we were able to not really structure the price but at least make models understand that they can earn better.”

On activities of FEW in the past few years and what the company would be doing in future, she reeled on the success of the company via its ‘Model Academy’, revealing that the company would now be stopping the academy and launching ‘Going Africa’.

According to her, “the model academy where we try to teach models about the industry has produced winners doing major stuff internationally, but I mean we had to put a stop to that this year.

“I just decided that with everything that has been happening, and with the Covid-19 pandemic; I had a bit of a reflective moment and realised that what was most important for the company and the models we are fighting for is to run an all- inclusive model.

“I realised that anybody can define beauty as they want. If you go to any company and they want to recruit you, they have their policies, they have who they are looking for, you might not be who they are looking for but it doesn’t mean you are a wrong candidate for every other company.

“And it just came to me that maybe there is no need for that competition after all. So a new program, ‘Going Africa’ is the beginning of the future for FEW, not a new FEW.” She described ‘Going Africa’ as the beginning of a well-constructed scouting future for FEW, and a platform for repositioning African Models at a deserving spot in the global space.

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THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ AUGUST 22, 2021

GLITZ TRIBUTE

Captain Hosa: The Last Flight!

Nobody makes a fine corpse. But Captain Idahosa Wells Okunbo did; breaking the norm. Even in death, the billionaire businessman cuts a perfect portrait of comeliness and humanity at its finest. Like the lucent carnation amid a bouquet of flowers, he exuded enviable humaneness in his lifetime and inspires bittersweet devotion even in his wake. When his time was up, he departed the world, leaving priceless memories behind for his loved ones. Indeed, few people get to transit from being utterly indispensable to ‘eternally unforgettable.’This truth amongst so many others manifested in the manner in which friends and family have been mourning the Edo-born oil magnate. Like a renaissance artist intoxicated by the muse, Nigerians chose to paint beautiful and everlasting pictures in his memory, writes LANRE ALFRED.

T

here is neither best lyric nor tenor to impart the tragedy of Capt. Idahosa Wells Okunbo’s death. News of his passing resonates, like a thunderous blow from seraph to temple, spattering the heart’s sac with mortal residue. Even now, it filters through gauze of memories, mauling the joys that I have known by his friendship.

Mourning him disrupts the balance of everything. And that is quite understandable. I am informed of his virtues by an intimacy spanning many years’ companionship of his charms and acquaintance with his humaneness. His life, fragranced with mannered humility, was inspiring. And his demise inspires the lingering, mournful tribute of a sigh. But I am very much assured that Captain has gone on to a better place, where righteous souls bask in the sun-drenched bliss of rapturous recompense.

He has crossed over to the divine plane, freighted with sweet repose and rewards for his deeds. He has gone where votive luscious hyacinths relay the promise of an eternal Eden. Now that the ticket to eternity has his name on it, I hereby pay the awkward tribute of mourning. These words would never be enough, however, to capture the towering immensity of his life.

Since I made his acquaintance many years ago, our friendship has blossomed into a bond emblematic of the best form of filial devotion and affection. I met him first through a mutual friend, Alhaji Abdulsamad Rabiu, the Chairman of BUA group, who called me one beautiful afternoon and after exchanging pleasantries, said,“Lanre, hold on for my very good friend, Captain Hosa.”

In his deep baritone voice, he said, “Lanre, Lanre, how are you? I have heard so many beautiful things about you. I don’t know why they keep writing acerbic stories about me and my partners. All we do is to help this country. We don’t have any country apart from Nigeria. Anyway, try to see me in my house in Lagos this weekend.”We ended the conversation.

Unfortunately, I was on my way to Houston that weekend, hence I couldn’t see him as requested. Three weeks later, I met with him at his palatial mansion in Banana Island, Lagos. I would discover that beneath the glitz and glamour of being a successful businessman and a billionaire of note, with all the accoutrements of fame and fortune at his beck and call, lied an intensely humane and modestly humble personality with a heart for the greater good of his people and country.

He exuded nonpareil intelligence, analytical mind, clarity of thoughts and sheer oratorical skills. Captain Hosa was one of the very few people I know that could never be blindsided or fazed by any eventuality. His calmness and infinite optimism even in the face of life’s greatest odds are inspiring and worthy of the respect and aspiration of coming generations.

Indeed, we had a long conversation spanning varying topics and angles. Core to this conversation was his work, his vision for a greater Nigeria and his family.

He shared with me how he made money at a very young age. Unlike most other billionaires that one met in the course of life’s peregrination, the very sociable and affable Captain Hosa never treated me or anyone as a minion or stranger.

Right there, in his house, he appointed my company his official Reputation Management and Media Relations Consultant. We signed a five-year contract, and he would later introduce me to his partners. Of course, we did well and were very glad he brought us in to manage his octopoidal business empire’s media relations and strategy. This signaled the beginning of our personal cum business relationship with this great man which blossomed from day one till the very end.

Curiously too, working even more closely with Captain Hosa in the last couple of years had further shown and convinced me that he was a very focused and driven leader, whose personal attributes were inherent, not superficial. He could be described as a ‘good headache’ because he would push and drive you while bringing out the best in you.

I would come to understand that what Captain Hosa envisioned for Nigeria drove his pursuits while his yearning for progress pitted him against the odds in the socioeconomic and political milieu.

Interestingly, one star-spangled night, as we sat over drinks and banters in his baronial London mansion, he recalled, “I must tell you that I come from a very humble background. My story is such that let me say, if I can be where I am today, anybody can be here, I mean, anybody. And it goes a long way to show that you don’t have to have been born by a rich father or mother to be successful in life.”

In his pursuit of glory, Captain Hosa learnt to thrive like a lily in unimaginable valleys. Like white rose growing on concrete slabs or the daring mushroom that pierces the motionless eternity of earth, pushing clearly but obstinately, through faint form, till the hour of fertility strikes, he sought to flourish where many had cowed to defeat.

He knew quite early in life that his humble roots should inspire him to succeed rather than become a burden and impediment to his spirited strides to success. He understood that to learn even the quarter of a breeze, he must hold up a wet finger. Hence, he pursued knowledge to his advantage.

He also told me,“In my over four decades in business spanning engineering and technology, energy, integrated service in the petroleum sector, maritime, security, agriculture and others, integrity has been my guiding principle and a core value with which I have been able to earn trust and confidence of companies and corporations of global repute.

“I have never stood before any administrative, judicial or legislative panels to answer any questions related to any shady deal. I have conducted my businesses with utmost openness, honesty and integrity. I am not oblivious of the fact that not a few people look up to me as a role model; the least I can do is to exhibit exemplary leadership quality to this group of young Nigerians, many of whom interact with me on a regular basis.”

Indeed, no cowardly soul resided in the likeable billionaire businessman, because he was no trembler in the world’s storm-troubled sphere. Of course, through him, industry’s glories shine; a reality he attributed to God’s grace. Thus, he was beholden to neither man nor mammon.

Cowardice and doubt dispersed in the blaze of his scorching righteousness because his business and personal ethics were so firmly anchored on the steadfast rock of conscience and integrity. The renowned and revered

Okunbo businessman would never use gilded words to mask deceit neither did he brandish fickle principles and statistics to conclude with a false truth.

Throughout his life, Captain Hosa exuded the lustre of the proverbial leading light thus distinguishing his persona amid a range of middling men. He radiated compassion, ardour and acclaim that no life’s odd could tame. Having hacked his path to affluence in honest, industrious strides, he spread out like a bastion of human aspiration even as his exploits become objects of the world’s affection.

Everywhere he navigated he exuded a spirit of humaneness and generosity that even the world’s finest and most daring philanthropists live in awe of.

No wonder he was, in 2019, bestowed with the prestigious Order of Lafayette award at the United Nations day for Global Peace. The Order of Lafayette is a patriotic, hereditary, nonpartisan, and fraternal organization established in New York City in 1958 by Colonel Hamilton Fish III (1888-1991), a former Congressman from New York and decorated veteran of the First World War. Captain Okunbo was especially honoured for his distinguished role in encouraging, engendering and entrenching peace and harmony in Africa and the world at large. He was presented with his award by His Excellency, Robert Blum, Chairman of the Order of Lafayette Awards.

Inspired by his achievements, one of my books, The Titans, was dedicated to him for profound reasons: chief among

them was the rarity of his persona. He had fundamental psychology as the artist, inventor, or statesman.

He had set himself at a certain work and the work absorbed and became him. It was the expression of his personality; he lived in its growth and perfection according to his plans. Captain Hosa became worthy of the honour by the account of his sterling industry, humanity and unpretentious modesty manifested positively on all of his acquaintances.

The Captain never forgot the special occasions; he would reach out to his friends on their birthdays, Christmas, Ramadan, Sallah, Easter and some other festivities, bearing breath-taking gifts. He was a great man with a heart of gold. No doubt.

Captain Hosa was a patriot whose commitment to national and economic stability were beyond doubt thus he was one of the very few economic giants and magnates who enjoyed the respect of the Nigerian government.

I consider it a rare gift of happenstance that we got closer while he was on his sickbed in London. We exchanged Bible verses, funny memes, wisecracks, healthrelated advice and precautions. I encouraged him to have faith in God. We chatted extensively some days before the final call, during which he advised me to always be myself.

Captain Hosa told me,“My dear brother, I am not afraid of death. God loves me so much that he told me ahead when I will die giving me the unique opportunity to put my house in order.”

THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ AUGUST 22, 2021

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GLITZ ENTERTAINMENT

Fake Evictions, Clashes, Strategies on BBNaija House Stories by Vanessa Obioha The fourth week in Big Brother Naija’s house was a rollercoaster. First was the exit of Kayvee, one of the new housemates. The housemates raised concerns over his erratic behaviour to Big Brother and by Monday afternoon, Kayvee exited the game. A statement released by the organisers, MultiChoice Nigeria, disclosed that the housemate left the house on medical grounds after having a consultation with Big Brother and the on-site medical team. By Friday, the housemates made a presentation on mental well being.

Kayvee’s departure left the housemates in a reflective and plaintive mood that Monday afternoon. However, the aura was quickly dissipated by the time they played the Head of House (HoH) game which saw Maria clinching the title for the first time. Interestingly, Big Brother changed the rules of the game.

Usually, the HoH game is often played like the game of Ludo where the housemates are expected to roll the die to get a six before they can start the game. Obstacles are placed in the squares which can either decelerate or terminate their game. But Big Brother for the first time, allowed housemates to begin the game with any number.

It turned out that the HoH game rules relaxation was not the only change for the night. Big Brother in a diary session tasked Maria to pretend that he gave her special power to nominate and evict housemates for the week as there will be no evictions tonight. Expectedly, the news raised eyebrows, especially from Jackie B who felt Maria was given special treatment. Maria is expected to nominate the housemates that least impressed her, the housemates were demanded to be on her good books.

Despite the perceived envy from other housemates, Maria seemed to be nonchalant about their snide remarks.

In a diary session, she told Big Brother that she is focused on her mission. Meanwhile, her attention was drawn to the missing condoms. According to her, the number of condoms has reduced drastically, an implication that the housemates have been engaged in sexual activity. Her main suspects are Liquorose and Emmanuel.

Besides the fake evictions, there were clashes in the house. The tension between Pere and WhiteMoney was heightened when Pere allegedly confronted WhiteMoney in an intimidating manner. After a whispering game played by the housemates, Pere, suspecting that WhiteMoney uttered something disparaging about him, demanded to know what he said menacingly as if he was about to beat the living daylight out of WhiteMoney. Initially frightened by his approach, WhiteMoney would later flare up while other housemates tried to calm the duo. The seeming dislike between the two housemates spawned from Pere’s belief that WhiteMoney knew about him being the wild card

Another Breakup Hits Rudeboy

Paul Okoye, wife, Anita and their kids

Nigerian female singer Tiwa Savage, has expressed her desire to fall in love. She made this known during her interview on Zane Lowe Show on Apple Music 1. Savage who was on the show to promote her single ‘Tales By Moonlight’ featuring Ghanaian artiste Amaarae, from her latest EP ‘Water & Garri’, said the song was about her desire for a fairy tale love.

“It’s a love song. ‘Tales By Moonlight’ was a popular TV programme when I was growing up in Nigeria and it was this lady or this man that used to tell stories. So it’s me saying I just want that fairy tale type of love. I don’t want to lose hope in just finding real love. I still believe in that. No matter how many times I’ve been heartbroken, I still am a sucker for love. I still believe there’s still that fairytale Cinderella ending.”

Savage’s marriage came to a messy end in 2016, after she and her ex-husband, Tunji Balogun popularly known as Teebillz aired their infidelity on social media. Their wedding in 2013 was a spectacle that hugged many headlines.

However, their brief union produced a son.

In her 2020 album ‘Celia’, she sang about her failed marriage in the track ‘Us’.

The new five-track EP featured international acts like American rapper Nas and singer Brandy which Savage described as her biggest influence.

“Brandy is literally the reason why I started singing. As a kid, just listening to ‘I Want To Be Down’,...every interview I’ve ever had, she’s my favourite, my all-time, my mentor, everything. And I’ve been trying to work with her for years.

It was a dream of mine. And when it happened this time, it’s not even just music, we connected like sisters. She’s someone that I speak to literally every other day. It’s beyond my expectation,” she gushed.

Maria

because of his alleged relationship with a member of the organising team, a fact that WhiteMoney had denied. Also, Pere believes that WhiteMoney is using cooking to buy the trust of other housemates.

The altercation had nearly died when Queen picked on Maria, accusing her of not addressing the issue properly. It is no secret that the two female housemates are anything but two peas in a pod.

The WhiteMoney and Pere clash resurrected the discussion on strategies played by housemates. Saga, a friend of Pere, believes WhiteMoney’s response during the spar was too staged to be true. On the other hand, Boma and Jackie B believe that Nini has Saga wrapped over her fingers such that the latter’s focus is distorted. Meanwhile, Emmanuel came up with a strategy of his own: to flirt with the female housemates to prevent them from evicting him while obtaining information.

If the housemates doubted the veracity of Maria’s special power, they will be shocked this morning when she calls out the least six housemates that impressed her and order them to pack the bags. Will Queen be on that list?

Barely a fortnight after he released his first solo album, fans of Paul Okoye aka Rudeboy, the other half of the defunct P-Square had a rude awakening when they learnt that his wife, Anita was filing for divorce. The news broke on Friday morning on many blogs and news websites. The grounds on which the divorce petition was made is yet unknown.

Before the news, scuttlebutt about the divorce was kept within close quarters. The couple maintained a cordial relationship on social media, given no hint that their love was already out of the window. They still followed each other on Instagram. But news gleaned from sources revealed that the chemistry between the two had died long ago. Rudeboy was said to be a serial cheat and didn’t treat Anita nicely. The latter was said to have left with her children for the United States of America on the pretext of studying for another degree.

Paul and Anita married in 2014, a decade after their meeting at the University of Abuja where they studied. They have three children.

Rudeboy’s divorce is coming four years after he separated from his brother, Peter. Their separation led to the painful demise of one of the most loved music groups in the country.

The brothers were such a rave that many didn’t foresee their disunion. Attempts to reconcile the brothers have met countless brick walls.

As of the time filing this report, the couple is yet to release an official statement.

Savage

The New Kid on the Music Block Adam Effiong, professionally known as Equation Billionz (EQB) could have become a footballer if he wanted. In fact, he joined the Liverpool Football Academy in the UK right after he played for Chatham FC -Under 15. Instead, he was compelled by his passion for music to switch lanes. And ever since, he hasn’t looked back.

Now 18, the UK born, Nigerian singer and rapper is hard at work to become one of the best new acts to emerge from the Nigerian music industry this year. EQB recently released ‘Benz’, a mid-tempo afro-fusion single that samples sleek rap bars. He had previously released ‘Aute’, which also gained favourable reviews.

The young artiste hopes to gain widespread recognition with the release of his upcoming untitled debut EP. According to him, the EP will feature outstanding collaborators, though he didn’t disclose who they are. So far, his most prominent collaborator is Teni (‘Nowadays’).

“On my upcoming project, I am trying to develop my unique sound,” EQB revealed. “I’m infusing the UK sounds… different country sounds, and mixing it with afrobeats to achieve that general appeal. Compared to my first professional song ‘Faaji’, which I did when I was 16, my current song ‘Benz’ clearly shows my evolution and progress in sounds and visuals.”

Shuffling between Nigeria and the UK, he leveraged his understanding of contrasting cultures that distinguish the local Nigerian music landscape and that of the UK, to work with producers from across the aisle, to make music with a global appeal.

EQB’s artistry can be captured in three words: fun, spiritual and positive. The singer also prides himself as a songwriter, who thus far, has penned all of his songs. Being that the upcoming EP allegedly boasts of big names, he was quick to assert that the collaborations weren’t done with the sole aim of commercial success in mind but one based on chemistry. “Music is a very spiritual thing for me, I cannot work with people that I can’t connect with,” he said.

Drawing influences from the likes of Fela Kuti and WizKid, EQB hopes to build a legacy while staying grounded to discern nuggets vital to his evolution in the ever-changing landscape of the music industry.

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THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ AUGUST 22, 2021

HighLife Aisha Babangida: A Tale of Daddy’s Girl

Babangida

One of Nigeria’s most notable political godfathers and former military president, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (alias IBB) just clocked 80! As expected of one so mighty, IBB had to play the role of a party host to the movers and shakers of Nigerian politics in his Minna residence, Niger State. Underlying all the hustle and bustle was the quiet and solid love and dedication of his daughter, Erelu Aisha Babangida.

It would be the most erroneous claim that Aisha requires anything material from her father. The lady has made a name for herself and has even managed to jump out of the clout generally accorded to the family of a former Nigeria Head of State. This is just as true for her having outgrown the large and stilldistinct shadows of her mother, the late Maryam Babangida, the original First Lady. Yet, Aisha’s devotion to the Babangidas, especially her father, is proof that love outlives everything else.

At IBB’s 80th birthday event, the Women Enterprise Alliance (WenA) founder was everywhere at once, greeting guests and commandeering the flow of events like the General her father once was. Her dedication and commitment were there for invited folks to see, and these duly commended her. The daughter of a jaguar, at the end of the day, is a jaguar.

Meanwhile, the guest list is something else that makes the heart soften with amazement.

Among the folks that visited IBB’s mansion were former President Olusegun Obasanjo; former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar; former Senate President, Bukola Saraki; former Anambra State Governor and Vice Presidential Candidate for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Mr Peter Obi; former Imo and Kebbi States governors, Senators Rochas Okorocha and Adamu Aliero respectively; Akwa Ibom Governor, Emmanuel Udom; and a nearly innumerable number of dignitaries.

Every one of these was treated to the best of welcomes by Aisha and her siblings. Unfortunately, these open arms were not extended to reporters. The “Press not allowed” inscription was just as large as the crowd of beggars and praise singers at the gate. All, but the aforementioned dignitaries, were turned out. Nevertheless, it was a fine and colourful celebration, that much was obvious.

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

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

Funke Opeke: Woman at the Top An eagle will always ride within and above the clouds; it’s birds of lesser nobility that fly beneath. This is how it is for Funke Opeke, the brain behind MainOne, a leading provider of innovative telecom services and network solutions for businesses in West Africa. The world continues to celebrate the woman who almost single-handedly changed the West African landscape in all things internet and connectivity.

To many people, Opeke first emerged as one of the noblest characters of Nigerian origin in 2018 when Forbes named her one of the World’s Top 50 Women in Tech. That was when some people realised that there has always been an Empress of IT in the male-dominated space who is still leading, still winning, with nothing less than a primogeniture status.

As the founder of Main Street Technologies and CEO of MainOne Cable Company, Opeke is qualified to be a role model to many. The account of her foray into tech space to contribute

her quota to the development of Nigeria is an inspiring one.

According to what is fast becoming a legend, Opeke landed back in Nigeria after so many years of schooling and working abroad. She was immediately signed on to MTN as its Chief Technical Officer, Transcorp as an advisor, and NITEL as a Chief Operating Officer. However, Opeke found that the internet data around here did not befit Nigeria’s status as Africa’s big brother. So she started running around and managed to raise $3.2 million from friends and relatives. And that’s how West Africa’s first privately owned undersea high-capacity cable came into being.

Opeke has been a celebrity ever since and has taken the principal seat to steer the Nigerian IT sector many times. An engineer by training but a superwoman by trait, Opeke continues to keep the fort in the African tech industry with no fewer merits than her male counterparts in the other continents.

Sad Moments...Otunba Timehin Adelegbe Loses Best Friend It was King Solomon of ancient Israel that explained that whereas relatives are wont to be around when there is trouble, a friend is always present. This is the fact that comes to mind upon the report of the sudden demise of Hon. Isaac Omolafe Adedayo, a federal lawmaker representing Akure South/ Akure North Federal Constituency, Ondo State. Perhaps the ‘outsider’ that would miss Adedayo the most is fellow lawmaker, Otunba Timehin Adelegbe.

The death of Adedayo on Monday, August 16, came as a rude shock to everyone. A man popularly known as Expensive, Adedayo was a darling to all and sundry, as chummy with the movers and shakers of Nigerian politics as he was with those of low bearing. Much like his friend, the representative of Owo/Ose

Adelegbe

Opeke

Federal Constituency, Ondo State, Adelegbe, Expensive was a man of the people, a man loyal to his conscience and his friends.

Apart from Adedayo’s immediate family, fewer than a few people will feel his passing as Adelegbe. He and the late lawmaker were two peas in a pod. Despite their belonging to rival political parties, Adedayo and Adelegbe enjoyed a camaraderie unavailable to others of a similar age group and status.

True friendship is, after all, rare in the face of glittering political offices.

That is one way to describe the relationship between the late Adedayo and Adelegbe. In fact, it is reported that until the death of Adedayo, he and Adelegbe shared the same residence in Abuja. Even in Akure, the capital of Ondo, the pair built their homes very close to each other.

It wasn’t so long ago that folks noticed that Adedayo and Adelegbe were close enough to toast each other in times of trouble and triumph. One can only imagine what Adelegbe is going through at the moment.

Education is the Best Legacy… As Femi Otedola Sponsors Ikorodu Bois Up to Graduation

Otedola

Fortune smiles on the brave and the bold, yes, but also on the benevolent. One of the most trending gists on the media these days is the graduation of three boys, Muiz Sanni, Malik Sanni, and Fawas Aina to a new class. Why is anybody talking about them? Two reasons: they are mini-movie directors and actors, and Femi Otedola, Nigeria’s biggest philanthropist, is their

LaraLek Ultimate Constructions, a leading construction company among those of indigenous origin, remains relevant even today. The company continues to expand its radiant profile with new contracts in road or bridge constructions. The man behind it all, Olalekan Adebiyi is the opposite: he remains the silent billionaire that Lagosians have come to appreciate.

There’s no need tooting the horns too loudly for the accomplishments of Adebiyi and his super company. Since the company emerged as one of Nigeria’s most effective, successful and well-contracted firms, some folks have paid close attention. One can only say that neither Adebiyi nor his LaraLek team has been a disappointment.

The entirety of Lagos is a testament to the lasting impressions that LaraLek is known to leave behind after every contract. Many of the new roads that the city is sporting have the insignia of Adebiyi and his LaraLek. Why? Because the man is good at what he does.

Several road projects are convincing proof

backer.

Muiz, Malik, and Fawas are not very common names, so folks might have trouble tying all three to their faces. However, at the mention of Ikorodu Bois, those same folks might jump off their seats and claim, I know them! And they’d be correct. The Ikorodu Bois are uberfamous. What perhaps only one or two people knew about them are the father-daughter pair behind their education, Otedola and his famous DJ daughter, DJ Cuppy whose real name is Florence.

Folks were both surprised and unsurprised at the news that Otedola has something to do with the schooling of the three boys. Surprised because, how did that happen and nobody knew about it until now? Unsurprised because this is what Otedola does, help the needy without tooting his horns. This time, the Bois themselves revealed the role of the billionaire and DJ Cuppy

upon their graduation.

For those who know very little about the Ikorodu Bois, it is a trio of comedic talents that have mimicked some of the biggest movies on the planet; from the high halls of Hollywood to the vast plains of Nollywood. In fact, their imitations have won them the thumbs-up from international acts like Will Smith, Chris Hemsworth, the Russo brothers, Alvaro Morte, ‘The Professor’ from the Spanish TV series ‘Money Heist’, and so many others.

Ikorodu Bois has even been nominated for the 2021 Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards in the Favourite African Social Media Star category.

They are the real deal.

But underneath that veneer of stardom are a trio that needs classroom education to imbibe discipline and learn the basics of life. And that is the opportunity that Otedola and Cuppy offered them when nobody was looking.

Olalekan Adebiyi: The Giant Strides of Nigeria’s Indigenous Contractor of that effect. A few noteworthy mentions are the 10-lane Oshodi-Murtala Muhammed International Airport Road with three express lanes and two service lanes in each direction; the seven-kilometre Ayobo-Ipaja road in Alimosho LGA; Church Road, Agbelekale; Giwa Street and Aboru-Abesan Link Road in Agbado OkeOdo LCDA. In fact, based on recent reports, LaraLek may have something to do with a certain massive project in Lagos where more than 100,000 people would be able to gather together to worship.

There is a reason LaraLek Ultimate Constructions is a contractor of contractors.

The pedestal upon which the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) placed Adebiyi back then was not for no reason. Without question, the NSE bosses knew that Adebiyi and his LaraLek

Adebiyi

will continue to remain relevant in Nigeria’s construction sector long after his peers have packed up. And so has it been with LaraLek winning more contracts to construct more roads.

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THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ AUGUST 22, 2021

HIGHLIFE

Bisi Fayemi Bags Another Title

Fayemi

It is no secret that there is an urgent call for women to take up more leadership roles even in developed countries. Within the political

corridors of the giant of Africa, Nigeria, quite a number of characters are driving this wave.

One of them is Bisi Fayemi, the brilliant wife of Ekiti State Governor, Kayode Fayemi. Very recently, a prominent socio-cultural group conferred on her a prestigious and daring title.

There is no doubting the brilliance and persistence of Ekiti State First Lady, Erelu Bisi. Even before her husband climbed into gubernatorial ranks in 2011, she had started making waves in women empowerment; waves big enough to swallow erroneous perceptions of male privilege, superiority and relevance. For her efforts, numerous groups have sung praises, organised parties and imitated her good works.

Recently, the Women’s Wing of Ohanaeze Ndigbo conferred on her the title of ‘Nne GburuGburu’—the Mother-General.

Sparing no words as she ladled praise after praise on Bisi, the Chairperson of the Ohanaeze Women’s Wing, Lady Patricia

Ndubuisi, noted that it is to the First Lady’s credit that such things as genital mutilation and the prevalence of underage female labourers are gradually becoming a thing of the past in Ekiti.

Responding to the conferment, the First Lady noted that she will always have a special relationship with the Igbo due to her having served as a National Youth Service Corps member in Abia State. She further emphasised the need for tolerance and harmony among the ethnic groups in the land, with individuals seeing themselves as Nigerians first before anything else.

Undoubtedly, Bisi is one of those who will use her influence for the good of all and sundry. This is how it has always been with her, as well as why she is identified home and abroad as a feminist activist, gender specialist, and policy advocate. Folks can now add Mother-General to her list of titles, a cap of golden feathers on her head of golden ideas.

Meet Nigerian Silent Billionaire, Abdullahi Bashir Haske

Chieftaincy Title Conferment Ceremony of Peller, Agunbiade as Ayedero and Atobase of Yorubaland Set to Hold These are the best of times for individuals like Hon. Shina Peller, representative of the Iseyin/Itesiwaju/ Iwajowa/Kajola Federal Constituency, Oyo State, and well-known business personality, investor and prominent offshore production expert, Dr Babajide Ademola Agunbiade. Both of these highflyers have earned the grace of Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III, Iku Baba Yeye, Alaafin of Oyo, and will consequently be conferred with prestigious chieftaincy titles.

The Alaafin of Oyo’s recognition of Peller and Agunbiade is one of the most welcome news in the Pace Setter State.

According to reports, as sons of the same Oyo soil, both Peller and Agunbiade have done well to plant the name of the

state on the lips of all and sundry. Their meritorious contributions have raised the state a few bars above its peers, earning them royal appreciation and laudation.

The chieftaincy titles, therefore, are meant to be distinguishing feathers on their caps.

Agunbiade, who is to be named the Atobase of Yoruba Land, is one of the big characters in the oil industry with more than two decades of experience under his belt. A leading global expert in offshore production, Agunbiade has excelled in his career, but even more in his devotion to his people. His Jide Agunbiade Foundation is well-known for its contributions to the lives of the needy, having made primary healthcare, access to basic education and community development within arm’s reach of the underprivileged.

L-R; Engr. Dr. Babajide Agunbiade, Director, National Oilwell Varco, Houston Texas, United States; Hon Shina Abiola Peller, Member Federal House of Representatives, and the Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III, Iku Baba Yeye...in a Tete a Tete at the Alaafin’s Palace, recently

Peller, on the other hand, requires no long introduction. A literal man of the people, his representing lseyin/ltesiwaju/ Kajola/lwajowa Federal Constituency has brought nothing but pride to bloom in the hearts of the people. Here is a man willing to go against the crowd for what he considers to be right.

Ibukun Awosika Back in the News After First Bank Exit

Awosika

Tough times don’t last, they said, tough people do. An observation that has been overly used by contemporary motivational speakers, even someone as exceptional as a businesswoman and author has found a reason

to agree. After experiencing an unexpected and forced retirement from First Bank, the 58-yearold has found a new spot to showcase her skills.

Madam Ibukun Awosika is quite possibly one of the most prestigious women in the Nigerian corporate space. A brilliant individual with a likeable personality, Awosika is the sort of highflyer that starts and builds on a slow momentum, concealing the fact that she has already shaved off what needs to be shaved off and taken over what needs to be taken over.

A few months ago, Awosika was involved in something of a scandal. According to one report in this regard, Awosika had joined hands with a few other board members of First Bank to allegedly forcibly retire the MD/CEO, Sola Adeduntan. A different report held that although the idea did not originate from Awosika, as the Chairman

of the bank, she had a bigger gavel and chose to use it against Adeduntan.

Regardless of who started what, the move did not go as well as planned.

The Central Bank of Nigeria stepped in, saved and reinstated Adeduntan, and booted out Awosika and her board. Folks assumed that it would take a few years before Awosika recovered her shine. But no, she already got summoned elsewhere.

Based on recent reports, Awosika is one of three individuals appointed as members of the global Independent Impact Taskforce (ITF) by the United Kingdom’s 2021 presidency of the G7 countries. Alongside Uche Orji and Arunma Oteh, Awosika is expected to proffer measures to help the nations recover from the COVID-19 crisis and she’ll design blueprints for sustainable societies and economies along the way.

Inspiring Mileages of Taofeek Adegboyega That entrepreneurship is a viable tool to fast-track the development of Africa and consolidates on the gains of a new age is a truism boldly embodied by Taofeek Adegbite, the Chief Executive Officer of Marine Platforms Limited. A Computer Science graduate of the University of Ibadan, he later attended the London School of Economics for a certificate course in strategy and Organisation Management as well as Harvard Business School OPM 44 (in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the United States of America).

Adegbite rose to global acclaim when his Marine Platforms

delivered and became the proud owner of the African vision and African inspiration- the two subsea function-specific and Remotely Operated Vessels (ROV) costing $100 million and the first of its kind to be owned by a Nigerian company which also culminated in the first shipbuilding contract between a Nigerian company and a Norwegian Shipyard.

He started his career with the World Bank Agricultural Project Monitoring & Evaluation Unit and also worked on contract with Britain’s National Health Service (Hammersmith Hospital) Adegboyega as a CISCO- certified engineer.

Haske

Nigerians are, at the end of the day, a very perplexing group of people. On the one hand, are very wealthy people who are unrestrained in their desire to show the world their endless resources. On the other hand are folks who are just as wealthy but prefer to hide among the common people. Abdullahi Bashir Haske is one of the latter, although his attempts to keep a low profile have not been half as successful as his brilliant business methods and moves.

For those who have not had the pleasure of knowing Haske, he is the founder and group MD of AA&R Investments, a long chain of oil-based companies that continue to stretch to new frontiers. He is 37 years old, a native of Adamawa State, and the man who recently got 51% of the oil blocs left behind by Addax Petroleum.

A daring young man, Haske built his AA&R company starting in the oil and gas sector. Today, the company has solid interests in marine services, aviation, agriculture, information technology and logistics services, to name a few. In a few short years, Haske grew from being a nondescript contractor to one of the most recognised and wealthiest under 40s on the block.

Some folks have credited Haske’s ascension onto the heights hitherto dominated by folks over 50 and retired to a deep and wide political network.

These claim that his political associations paved the way for him. However, for anyone who cares to look a bit deeper into the matter, this is not true. In fact, this is putting the cart before the horse. All the ‘Abuja connect’, as they are called, came after Haske accomplished this much for himself.

Meanwhile, Haske has remained relevant to his Adamawa roots. This was obvious when he reportedly assisted around 14,000 Adamawa residents during the COVID-19 crisis. For one so young, such vision is rare indeed. This explains why Haske is a newfound model for many Nigerian youths.

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THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ AUGUST 22, 2021

LOUD WHISPERS

with JOSEPH EDGAR (09095325791)

Ahmad Lawan: You are Doing Well Please my brother, do not mind all these people who are laughing and yabbing you that you carried a chair for our President.

What do they know? Let me tell you something about what you did and the causative factor of that reflex action.

You see in Shomolu, when my father lost his job, my mother, a soldier, called us one night and said, “Joe, your dad has lost his job. By right, I am supposed to leave him but I will not. So, you and I will do everything within our powers to maintain the standard of living we are used to.”

I stupidly agreed, not knowing what was coming next. The following morning, she told me that we will start hawking bread to augment the family income.

I looked at her incredulously. Was she serious? Me, fine boy to be hawking bread all over Shomolu? The same Shomolu that I have been terrorising young girls.

I went straight to my father and asked him what really happened with his job because I can’t be caught selling bread, that he had better go and beg to get his job back. My people, to cut a long story short, I hawked bread for Shomolu for three years.

I suffer like thief. I would carry bread on my head and hawk from Abiodun, through Igbo Igunnu, to Onipanu through Pedro. Then, I will start from Onipanu and do Igbobi and enter Myoung Barracks and appear at Abule Oja and pass through Fola Agoro and end up at my mother’s shop at Fakorede tired.

Miraculously, my father got his job back the week I got admission to the University of Ibadan and my three-year sojourn as a bread hawker ended. Phew.

I was very handsome then. A ladies man o. You should have seen me on campus. I was fine, tall and a good dresser.

That was how I settled with the delectable Toyin - I will not mention her name, make her husband no knock am this night.

Anyways, we were a very powerful couple. She was beautiful, dark-skinned with a charming gait. We made heads turn on campus each time we stepped out.

But there was a small glitch. Anytime we went strolling and someone shouted “Omo oni bread,” I would automatically respond. You know say, I don sell bread for three years, so that cry — omo oni bread —

don enter my DNA. One day, Toyin asked me: “Darling, you don sell bread before? Why is it that anytime they shout ‘omo oni bread’ you turn your head as if they were referring to you?”

See denial.

“Me? God forbid. Me sell bread ke.”

My reaction to that call is what we saw the other day at the National Assembly.

That reflex action from our dear Senate President na either a past career in maiguard, driver or houseboy.

That is why immediately the President moved to sit, the reflex action kicked in. It is automatic and there is nothing you can do to stop it. It is in the DNA, not even the protocol of the ADC can stop it. The thing that they have been doing for years, before they even enter the Senate?

So let me assure the ADC not to fret.

His job is safe, he should not be worried, na something them must do. It is not a deliberate ploy to take his job or render him irrelevant in the scheme of things. It is ok, na Nigeria we all dey.

BOLA TINUBU: A TERRIBLE HOST You know me, I cannot keep quiet. When I see something wrong, I must talk. That is how I was brought up. So Mr. President took time out of his very busy schedule to visit Alagba to check up on him and he could not even give our Oga a common cold drink.

As I was just looking at the picture, the thing was just vexing me.

Is this how he wants to rule us? I know my man, Buhari. He vex o, but as an international statesman with strong training, he no complain, but if you look him face very well, you will see his anger at the situation.

When they wanted to take the picture, he removed his mask so that we can all see that he is vexing. He stood straight, frowned and refused to smile. Tinubu just stood there with a walking stick, oblivious to his guest’s fury.

I am sure Buhari must have been regretting his decision. Aisha must have told him to eat before visiting Tinubu but he probably waved her aside, convinced that his friend would feed him. That was how he appeared in Tinubu’s house and na picture dem dey take. Not even one small kolanut or kunu talk less of food.

The house was so bare. E be like say Mummy Remi still dey Lagos and she no want leave house for house girl. You know how matter and house girl dey always end. So even at that age, Mummy cannot take risks.

This must be why the visit was very brief.

Hungry nearly killed our Oga that he had to rush home to feast.

Mbok, next time Mr Tinubu, no be only face mask, you go dey offer august visitor. Make

appropriate arrangements o.

I just hope this thing will not affect our primaries o. You know how Oga dey take this kind thing seriously. Well sha, nothing prayer cannot do. Please quickly send a carton of Lucozade Boost to Aso rock o.

Quick.

newspaper space to write about what may never happen in this generation. Sad.

EMIR SANUSI: PRESIDENCY, WHY NOT? My Lord says he is not interested in the Presidency but instead he will go do a Ph.D. programme abroad. But the question that first comes to mind na, who ask am in the first place?

Don’t mind me o. That is me trying to be cheeky. I admire this personality. I love his clarity especially when it comes to the economy, its dynamics and pure understanding of the trends. He falls weak when it comes to religious tolerance; his position on this is clear but his love for the nation is not in doubt and does not come out like a shallow brown-nosed ethnic bigot.

If you ask me if he would make a brilliant President, I will say a big YES. Yes, he will make a brilliant President if ever given the opportunity.

His relative youthfulness, nationwide team of associates and his international respect in major international financial circles would surely come into handy as we try to push out of the worst economic malaise we find ourselves in.

But sadly, he can’t be president for at least the foreseeable future for so many reasons besides himself.

Anyways, don’t let me waste precious

CHRIS NGIGE: DOCTORS ARE TRULY PLAYING GOD For once I agree with Chief Ngige. You see, this is a tricky situation. Doctors going on strike for various reasons leading to the untimely death of Nigerians is truly a sad and complex situation.

You see, looking at it from the doctors’ perspectives, their working conditions are terrible and hazardous, leading them to unwholesome practices that culminate in needless loss of lives.

You know I am not a fan of these medical communities and have been shouting and abusing them all over the place since the very avoidable passing of my beautiful wife in their leprous hands. So, when they stand up to make practical demands for a betterment of their condition of services, you cannot help but understand and stand with them.

On the other hand, with dwindling resources on the government side — sans sincerity and corruption — you can also understand the government’s side.

The middle road, which is the private sector, is worse. That one, you will just be dying like a cockroach because of the cut throat practices. Just yesterday, my friend called in a panic from Abuja. His uncle was showing signs of Covid and they rushed him to a private hospital.

They have not done a test o, they are not sure what is wrong with the Baba o, they just slammed him with a bill of N1.5m per day for

five days payable upfront. Mbok, over N7m when we never even sure what is wrong with the Baba.

The private medical practice, I keep saying, is fraught with monsters cloaked in white gowns. I am still waiting for them to come and beat me.

This is why the minister has said they are trying to play God and I agree. Nobody is saying you should slave, but at the same time, how do you stand as a doctor who has sworn to save lives and be watching a patient actually die on your watch because Ngige no pick call?

E be like say na back to native doctors o because these ones are nothing to write home about. I stand to be corrected.

Tinubu

Sanusi

Akindele

Lawan

CITIZENS MEDICAL FOUNDATION: IFE FASHOLA AND JOSEPH EDGAR ON THE MOVE You see, when you go through a harrowing experience, it changes you. I watched very closely as my wife passed. She went through our medical structure and I watched her go daily for two weeks till she eventually had a cardiac arrest and passed.

I had spent over N3m to watch her die and at every step she told me, “Duke, these people don’t know what they are doing, take me away from here.”

Where will I take her to? I asked myself. The public hospitals are on strike and when they are working, na war zone. The private ones na buccaneer.

As I dey watch them struggle to find a vein which I must say was harrowing as the

Ife-Fashola

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THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ AUGUST 22, 2021

LOUD WHISPERS consultant could not find the vein in three days, the accountant was standing with me inside the ICU, reminding me that the deposit of N1.2m go soon finish o. I almost slapped him.

So you see, where we missed it in this country — especially with medical disasters— is that once it happens, even the doctors will encourage you to report the ‘bad hospital’ so that they will be dealt with. That is a very wrong strategy because it isolates the offending hospital for punishment while the carnage continues in the wider community.

So, what we are trying to do with the Citizens Medical Foundation is to attack the whole medical value chain. From regulators down to the cleaners, we will engage them with financial and technical muscle and change things.

The plan is to create a transparent structure that will take just N1,000 from one million Nigerians monthly and now move the funds towards selected medical structures nationwide and intervene. We will either work on the welfare package, infrastructure, drugs and disposables and all what not.

As the fund grows, we will now start building world class hospitals where we will crash the prices and begin to positively push a revolution.

At N1 billion monthly, privately contributed funding domiciled with a huge Trustee Company and with a credible Board of Trustees made up of both local and international figures of integrity, we will move ourselves from pity to hope.

The problem with this country is that everybody is lamenting. Even the government is lamenting. We are all waiting for angels to come down and fix the system.

It will not happen. If we don’t fix it ourselves, we will all die.

Like I always say, they killed the wrong Erelu. Her death will bring up this revolution that will not only re-engineer the space but will save millions of lives just by collecting N1,000 from Nigerians.

If you want to learn more about this Foundation or be a part of it, reach me on 09095325791. Thank you.

FIDELIS ANOSIKE: ACCEPT MY HEARTFELT CONDOLENCES Mr Anosike is my brother. I first met him while at BGL during his early days of capturing The Daily Times. I had always loved his dexterity and passion for Nigeria.

We have tried to do one or two things together that did not really pan out but we share the same strong love for this country and almost all the time at the Duke Summit agree on the same issues.

He lost his dear mother this week and from what I have gathered, after losing their father quite early, the Anosike family was molded and guided by Nne di ora mma, so this loss is quite devastating.

But my brother, what can we do but to keep hope and be guided by the fact that she lived a wonderful life and is today in the bosom of our lord.

Please take heart and don’t cry too much.

God is in control, my brother.

HARUNA JALO–WAZIRI: A BLAST FROM THE PAST Some weeks ago, I was at the Wheatbaker Hotel with my Uncle, Dapo Adelegan for a meeting. Na groundnut and coke that one give me o. I just dey look am say which kind Uncle be this one o. That is how I decided to step out to buy puff - puff on the road before hungry kill me for this place o.

Apparently, an event was going on and a lot of great men were walking in. Within five minutes, I saw Kayode Falowo, the Chairman of Greenwich Merchant Bank and my long time Oga. I remove mask, greet am: “Lord, do you still remember me?”

“Yes na,” he responded. “Edgar, how you dey?”

“Thank you o My Lord,” I replied, “and congratulations on your new bank.”

That one pass. The next person come be Prince Bimbo Olashore. We had met the previous week, met again at Ikoyi Club. This time, I decided not to greet am before the Oga think say I dey stalk am.

That was how my salesman instinct jumped in. Let me kuku stand here o, this one that A-list people are coming in; let me see if I can catch someone that will sponsor ‘Aremu’ or ‘Awo’.

You see, I usually don’t like writing about this Madam, because no matter how objective I try to be, her many fans will still tear me apart. So that is why I usually stay clear and watch as she galivants around the space doing what she knows how to do best – enjoying life.

Anyways, her recent announcement that she has won the rights to a movie on Hushpuppi, the disgraced alleged international fraudster, leaves a bitter taste.

Make e no be like say I am talking too much, so I will choose my words. The whole thing smacks of crass opportunism driven on naked commercialization devoid of a more intrinsic nationalistic thought process.

Mbok, a story that is still evolving, a onesided story that will not have the permission of the principal and a strong possibility of strengthening the negative narration of our country and people will now be something of pedophilic excitement of a frontrunner? I just tire.

Movies are a very powerful medium. It pushes very strongly, perceptions which seep into relationships between whole cultures

and the rest of the world. Today, America despite its obvious lapses is seen as ‘God’s own country’, principally because of what Hollywood shows us.

Look at Mexico, Columbia and other such countries. Hollywood has shown them as nothing but drug fuelled violent entities instead of the beautiful countries that they are.

Mbok, adiagha look for other positive stories of this country to feed your growing international audience. We have many stories of strength, stories of perseverance, stories of hope like the Nigerian basketball team to the last Olympics. That would be a worthy story to tell. Did you know that the coach’s girlfriend had to open a GoFundMe account at the beginning?

My sister, leave this ‘stupid’ story that is not representative of us. You do not have creative control so you will not be able to stop the carnage it will do to our international reputation. Mbok, leave it and do something else. That’s my advice. I know you no go hear but I believe I owe you this and I have said it.

Up to you to listen. I have moved on.

Abudu

It was the gorimapa I first see. Who get this kain fine gorimapa coming out of jeep? I wondered. Then I saw the long legs and the fine clear skin, I just shouted “My Oga Jallooooooooo”. He looked at me and shouted “Edgar!”

He was looking like a Hollywood star; well-groomed and neatly dressed. My Oga stockbroker/investment banker, and now Managing Director at the CSCS Ltd. I was his first account officer while he was at Kakawa Discount when most of you reading were still in your villages and from there, I have watched him build one of the most brilliant investment banking careers that has taken him from Kakawa through the Stock Exchange and now to the CSCS Limited which is the premier clearing house for the biggest capital market in Africa.

I could not hug him because of Covid but I was so excited to see him after a long while.

The last time I saw him was years ago at the Ikoyi Club swimming pool where the man dey fear to jump into water.

Make I just hail am small for here. Great guy.

If you don’t know him, you should meet him. Lovely personality. Well-done sir. I will pull a chair for you Lawan-style any time.

JOY OSIFO: A BREATH OF FRESH AIR Very few people at 40 go through the ups and downs of life and come out smelling like a sweet roast like this delectable lady. Joy, if I can call her that, has seen both the rough sides and the very enamored parts of life which have culminated in making her the pristine character she is today.

Following a colorful banking career that saw her traverse some of the most powerful banking institutions, she moved into the topsy turvy world of business, berthing in oil and gas where she is not only holding her own but is gradually emerging a powerful

power broker in the space.

I just want to wish her a powerful and funfilled 40th birthday celebration today. Happy birthday, my sister, and may God continue to bless and protect you in this world of too many sharks, I tell you. Well done ma.

CHARLES ‘SULAIJA’ AND STELLA OBISANYA: HAPPY 40TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY There is a reason I put the 40th so that our young ones can read and assimilate. Small thing, they will be saying it is not a do or die.

It is a do or die o.

Marriage is one of the most tricky things you can get into as a human being. It needs a lot of compromise, sacrifice and true love.

This is why I am celebrating my number one fan and his dear madam for hitting this milestone of 40 years in their marriage.

Let me digress and talk about one small story. That is how one time Duchess catch me. It was tough o. She rake o, tear me and scatter my brain. She say she must leave me.

I beg, beg, beg, beg. She say it is only one big Pastor that can talk to her and make she hear.

I was relieved because I think say the Pastor get sense.

We reached the man, a very big Pastor. As he just hear her side, he say make she leave me. That he cannot condone cheating. I look this man, I just thank God say I have not been paying tithe, if not, I for ask for a refund complete with interest at the going market rate.

From there, I went to a marriage counsellor.

Bald headed fool o. He charged me N100,000 per session and said we will need six sessions to resolve the matter. That there is not only cheating, there is violence inside the matter because I knock Duchess small for her head o. Small knock o.

That was how the first session, I warned the man like how IBB warned the constitution

conference when e tell them say separation is a no-go-area. Na so I clear my throat, look the man eyeball to eyeball and tell am say “Mr Counsellor, separation is a no-go area. Any other thing I will do.” The man say he don hear.

Immediately we start the session, the mumu say we should separate for a two years trial period. I jump up, look my madam, “Oya, let’s go. I’m not paying this fool N600,000 to help me destroy my marriage.”

Duchess sef see opportunity. The woman say I should give her N300,000 say she go calm down. Negotiation enter. I say N150,000 payable in six tranches: first tranche after one session in the other room. By this time, she don freeze me out for four years. No be small matter o.

My people, when I see people like the Obisayans, I am excited. To have stayed for 40 years and still waxing stronger, I can only pray for them.

I have never met Mr. Obisayan, but we talk every day. He is an avid reader of this column and says he has been reading newspapers for over 50 years. He counts such greats like Femi Adeshina, Dele Giwa, Debo Adeshina as his all-time favourites. He will want to be putting me on that list, I say make he leave me o. Me na just Shomolu man. He will say he is just a Mushin man and we will laugh.

Happy wedding anniversary my brother even as I pray for another 40 years of wedded bliss. Bro, even if nothing is happening again in the other room, still take mummy there and hold her and kiss her on my behalf. You inspire us. Well done.

DR AKINDELE AKINTOYE: IMPOSSIBLE IS NOT AFRICAN This is the second time in about one month that I am writing about this Egbon. It is simply because of what he stands for which in my mind’s eye is what is needed in this country at this time.

The feeling of national pessimism and hopelessness is crazy. I tell you, everybody in this country, from the President down to the newborn, seems to have given up on the country which is sad.

So, when I see someone like this who represents a very tiny minority saying no, we are not useless or hopeless and even goes ahead to put his efforts in his talk, I can only but celebrate him.

He recently granted an interview to a group of editors from the influential African Leadership magazine where issues like infrastructure, energy and other very topical issues were discussed extensively.

As I read the interview I was just shouting.

He was quoted saying, “Impossible is not African. Everything is possible on this continent. We come from a very rich heritage and history…. We are a people who built the largest man-made structure in the world — the Benin Kingdom walled City.”

There is something truly wrong with us as a people, I tell you.

Please read thealvinreport.com for the full interview. Kai. AREMU: GLOVER HALL IN FOCUS Today, immediately after church or whatever you do on Sundays, rush to the Glover Hall in Marina and behold the sacrifices and hard work of over 100 young Nigerians molded by the great Prof Ahmed Yerima as they bring ‘Aremu’, the story of Chief Olusegun Obasanjo to life.

Mbok, this has been a journey. A spirited attempt at reminding us of just who we are as a people.

The Glover Hall recently refurbished by Governor Sanwo-Olu comes with a lot of rich history. It was built in 1887 on land donated by Madam Tinubu. It holds a lot of our history as can be gleaned by Chief Awolowo who once watched a Herbert Ogunde Play – ‘Yoruba Ronu’ as Premier of Western region.

Incidentally, immediately after ‘Aremu’, The Play ‘Awo’ written by Makinde Adeniran would start running. I tell you, history never had it so good.

Both plays are produced by none other than me, the Duke of Shomolu and when I was asked in a radio interview the other day, why I was putting up all the strong historical productions running into millions of Naira, I look the woman squarely and tell am – I dey find school fees. She weak. I cannot lie. I am a prominent citizen.

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THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ AUGUST 22, 2021

Adebayo Adeoye bayoolunla@gmail.com; 08054680651

SOCIETY WATCH

Kiki Okewale Hitting for the Sky Kiki Okewale needs no introduction, especially in the fashion and style business in the country.

Her Lagos-based Hope Fashion is a one-stop store that caters to the needs of top clients from head to toe — whether high-end fabric, aso oke or turban, spiced with chic fascinators, matching shoes, purses and jewellery.

She is one of the successful designers who have been able to marry the rich cultural history of aso oke with modern silhouettes. For this, she is getting accolades and hugging all the attention from the rich and famous, fashion trendsetters and jet-setters.

Kiki is one free-spirited designer who is not constrained by convention.

She has styled (and still styles) scores of former and incumbent first ladies in Nigeria. In fact, a few days before any high-octane event, Kiki’s outlet always turns into a mecca of sorts with many consulting her to style them from head to toe.

In early August when former Ogun State Governor, Otunba Gbenga Daniel and his delectable wife, Yeye Olufunke — also a fashion aficionado with a rich pedigree in the industry — hosted family and friends to their daughter, Kehinde’s wedding in Lagos, Kiki played a very significant role, as she was tasked with the styling and packaging of three beautiful designs of Aso Ebi for over 1,000 celebrity women who attended the nuptials.

At the colourful wedding held at Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, the Aso Ebis — gold cream and a touch of red colours for both families made of a combo of sequins and tissue lace — had a set for the first ladies and VVIPs, another for celebrity women in general and the third for the bride’s friends.

Kiki, who is married to popular city doctor, Babatunde Okewale, is all about class and quality. Her distinctive collections have carved for her an enviable niche in the hub of high fashion. Her bespoke designs betray her immeasurable depth of creativity, value for details and affinity for the precise.

Besides, her unique selling point is her unparalleled mastery of combining colours and sparkles in a most remarkable way that makes her clients glitter like a million diamonds.

Air Peace Boss, Allen Onyema’s Good Tidings

Onyema

It takes a master vision to create a masterpiece. For the aviation expert, Mr Allen Onyema, boss of Air Peace, creating a masterpiece has never been a problem.

In his seven years of operation, Onyema has dwarfed many of his counterparts by

constantly changing the narratives in the sector.

Yet, he has not stopped dreaming! The airline continues to open more routes to the chagrin of many. Just as he has been making fortunes for the airline, the trained lawyer is unrelenting and on his way to becoming the richest airline owner in the country.

Society Watch learnt that a few years ago, Onyema had envisioned the possibility of establishing an airline that would successfully compete with the world five- stars in the industry.

So, when the opportunity presented itself, he grabbed it with both arms.

He has pleasantly shocked many with the expansion of the business, particularly at this period the sector is going through some stormy weather. Last week, Air Peace commenced scheduled flight operations to Ibadan Airport, in Oyo State. The inaugural flight, operated with the airline’s brand new Embraer 195-E2, touched down at the ancient city and was received by the monarch of the town, Oba Saliu Adetunji.

The flight was welcomed to the ancient city by the state government officials led by the state Governor, Seyi Makinde.

Zinox Group Boss, Leo Stan Ekeh’s New Dream

Ekeh

The Chief Executive Officer of Zinox Group, Leo Stan Ekeh, is one of the few businessmen who have written their names in gold. The multibillionaire businessman, who has his hands in several businesses including e-commerce, oil and gas, media publishing and real estate, among others, boasts an intimidating résumé, international connection and riches.

He is one of the few Nigerian business magnates whose business opinions and advisory are often welcome around the world. The string of industry awards that litter his ornate office is evident of his success story in the sector.

Interestingly, he is not known to pursue unrealistic dreams. As the nation warms up for another general election in 2023, many now wish that Ekeh, who has a deep knowledge of the world economy, should be given a chance.

A source disclosed that this is not the first time he would come under pressure from people who want him to throw his hat in the ring for a political position.

In 2019, Ekeh was pressured to contest for governor of Imo State. As disclosed by our source, to underscore the seriousness of their intention, they reportedly made representations

to him to hearken to their cries on different occasions. However, it was gathered that the businessman shunned all pleas for the simple reason that he is more passionate about his businesses scattered around the world.

Even now, Ekeh’s name has constantly been mentioned as a candidate to watch out for.

In a chat with Society Watch, a source said: “He is a sellable candidate devoid of bigotry; he is also a nationalist with the interest of Nigeria at heart. Despite having business chains littered across the world, he has done everything possible to make sure a huge chunk of his investment is sited in Nigeria to create employment and empower people.

“Leo Stan is a perfect example of the type of leader Nigeria needs; he has a clean record; he has never been caught in the web of corruption; he is also a tested and a trusted businessman who will open the economy of the country and place Nigeria back as the giant of Africa with huge business investment opportunities and also attract foreign direct investment.

Obi Cubana’s Wife, Ebele Empowers Students with ICT Skills Unlike some other women in her social class, whose forte is to fly around the world spending their husbands’ wealth, beautiful Ebele Iyiegbu, a lawyer and wife of Obi Iyiegbu, famously known as Obi Cubana, a real estate mogul and consummate businessman, has rather carved a niche for herself with her philanthropic gestures.

As proof of her passion for child education, she founded the Kiek Foundation to cater to the needs of women and vulnerable children in society.

While growing up, her immediate environment had opened her mind to the ills militating against the positive growth of children; hence, the birth of Kiek Foundation’s Rural Area Children and Teenagers in Information and

Communication Technology (RACT-inICT) programme, in collaboration with The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).

With the current demand for ICT gurus across the world, she is catching them young by arming them with free tutorial classes, where children are taught the rudiments of coding, using ICT for global impact and also persuading them from using it for fraudulent means.

The training, which started on August 9, will end on August 21, 2021. It is held at the Junior Secondary School, Apo resettlement with the theme: ‘Bridging the Gap through Sustainable ICT Skills.’

It is expected to impact over 100 disadvantaged children and teenagers with relevant ICT skills needed to excel in a competitive world.

Obafemi Bamisile Dream Big Again!

Okewale

Speaking during the historic moment, Onyema promised to link Ibadan to every geo-political zone of the country.

He also said the opening of the Ibadan route is part of the airline’s ‘no city left behind’ programme, where every city in the country will be interconnected by air.

Onyema said: “Plans are already on to commence Port Harcourt to Ibadan flight.

Abuja, Ibadan to Kano flight is also already in the pipeline. I believe in the oneness of Nigeria. As a nationalist, I am going to connect all cities in the country. I will link Ibadan to the South-south, South-east, North-east, North-west and every part of the country. I believe in the unity of the country.”

His success, despite all odds, is attributable to his belief that hard work pays.

Indeed, his seeming fairy tale may not come as a surprise to those close to him because he has over the years shown evidence of a man who is well versed in the art of making money; and as true cognoscenti, he knows when to throw the dice and even reinvent in a shaky business environment.

In Ekiti State politics, one man who is presently showcasing his political prowess is the former Speaker of the State of Assembly, Obafemi Bamisile. Apart from being the member representing Ekiti South Constituency 2 at the lower chamber, his dreams and aspirations for a better Ekiti have always given him a sleepless night.

This, perhaps, explains the reason he had thrown his hat in the ring to contest as Governor of the state in 2018. But the pendulum swung in favour of the incumbent John Kayode Fayemi.

Those close to the Ekiti State University graduate will affirm that one of his heart

Bamisile

Cubana

desires is to govern Ekiti and actualise the blueprint he had prepared to make the state great. Political pundits in the state disclosed that with his current political weight as a member of the House of Representatives, owing to his pedigree as a grassroots politician, he is a top contender. It was gathered that Bamisile’s supporters have also taken a bold step by formally declaring that their principal would be throwing his hat again in the ring to contest the next election as governor after Fayemi would have served his two constitutional terms as governor of the state.

At the well-attended declaration event, his supporters highlighted his good works and plans to take the state to the next level.

The former student’s union leader is said to have left indelible footprints in the sands of time during his time in the state’s House of Assembly.

THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ JUNE 24 2012

ARTS & REVIEW A

PUBLICATION

22.08.2021

Alvin Ukpeh

EVOKING EMOTIONS THROUGH HIS VISUAL NARRATIVES, ALVIN UKPE STIRS UP DIALOGUES Attesting to an intuitive understanding of the depth of field and his creative choice of subjects, Alvin Ukpe’s photographs, featured in his recent exhibition in Lagos, glow with promise, says Okechukwu Uwaezuoke

S

olitude – Alvin Ukpe’s invitation to the local cognoscenti to explore the streams of consciousness seething beneath his still images – smacks of the most admirable kind of heroism. Somehow, this hitherto unknown photographer needed this grand entry into a vibrant exhibition circuit.

Hence, the recently-held two-day solo outing at South Eatery and Social House along Younis Bashorun Street in Victoria Island, Lagos seemed designed to achieve his purpose: to stomp into the Lagos photography scene.

On the source of inspiration for the exhibition, which opened on Saturday, August 14 and ended on Sunday, August 15, the NigerianAmerican photographer intimated that it came from the state of his subconscious mind at that period in his life. The pandemic-induced lockdowns had just been eased and he had taken off on what he called“a travel photography trip”. For him, the trip provided not just an opportunity to escape from the depressing ambience trailing the lockdowns, he also needed to be alone with his thoughts and find some time to explore.“I found out that I was subconsciously shooting the‘Solitude’theme when I got back home and looked at my recent shots,”he reminisces.

“The images spoke to me and I decided to put a collection together and use this to inspire the world.”

Trust this alchemical thing about curating to split the exhibition into two main coherent segments. This could be why one of the segments, which seemed pivotal to the theme, featured only works produced in monochromes, while the other segment displayed a collection of

Forlorn coloured photographs.

Yet, there was something premeditated about the works – all produced in 2021 – that belies the photographer’s assertion that they are“an organic collection of serenity, sadness, tranquillity, loneliness, peace and pain; all emotions we tend to feel when we are alone, isolated, reclused or introverted, essentially when we are in a state of solitude.”

What indeed could have been lurking in the mind of the bushy-haired 26-year-old when he photographed a solitary woman relishing some fresh wintry morning air in the park?“She says coming out here so early gives her time to think and get her mind right for the day,”he writes in the explanatory note of the photograph, titled “Early Bird”, adding with all puns intended:“We

are both early birds; in this case, I’m the bird and this picture is my worm.”

Perhaps, the sense of solitude is more evident in the photograph, titled“Me Day”, in which a man reclines on an easy chair in what appears to be a beach. It has to be a beach because a part of the photographer’s explanation corroborates: “He is at peace watching the sunset and listening to the waves of the ocean as they hit the shore.”

If this photograph is not a product of Photoshop manipulation, the subject lends himself succinctly to the exhibition’s title.

Ukpe, who also goes by the professional moniker NYV (an anagrammatised tinkering of his first name Alvin), tells engaging stories through his lens. He affirms that his penchant for natural and minimalist expressions is intentional

and is meant“to reveal originality and a connection between its audience and the subject of each picture.”And talking about this connection, he adds that it“evokes emotions that stir up a dialogue within oneself.”

But the odds that the uncluttered contents of his photographs might have offered more incentive for a desultory viewing cannot be discountenanced. And, indeed, there isn’t much about the monochrome photographs like“Forlorn”, “Self-Reflection”,“My Corner”,“Unaccompanied”, “Sick of All This Noise”,“Social Distancing”and “Fear of Falling”, to stick around them for. This is even when they can be acknowledged as quite engaging in their sublime simplicity.

Nonetheless, the West Virginia University, US graduate of agribusiness and rural development urges the audience to“gaze upon each picture with an open mind”, as this would allow their “consciousness float through the solitude of [his] expressions.”

As an essentially self-trained photographer, who only recently – as recent as in 2018 –sauntered into the Lagos photography scene, he ought to be more circumspect in passing judgements about a scene that has not only produced Bamako Photography Biennale regulars but also given the LagosPhoto Festival a reason to exist. He, for instance, premises his impressions of the Lagos photography scene on the wrong assumptions that his colleagues focused mainly on portrait shoots. “I have quickly expanded my content beyond portraits, to cover other salient areas, including landscape photography, conceptual photography, product shoots, photojournalism, street photography and much more.”

EDITOR OKECHUKWU UWAEZUOKE/ okechukwu.uwaezuoke@thisdaylive.com

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THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER AUGUST 22, 2021

ARTS & REVIEW\\MUSIC

Wizkid with Tems

Justin Bieber

WIZKID'S‘ESSENCE’ GAINSMOMENTUM Yinka Olatunbosun

O

nce again, Nigeria's authentic star boy, Wizkid has made Nigeria proud. His song titled ‘Essence’ released on October 30, 2020 as the 11th track from his fourth studio album, ‘Made in Lagos’ has made it to the Billboard Hot 100 and Billboard Global 200. That's the first Nigerian song to have ever achieved such milestone in the prestigious music chart. In the original version, the grammywinning artist featured Tems on the vocals and had the track produced by P2J and the amazing Legendury Beatz. Wizkid as well as other artists had made hits with Legendury Beatz including “Azonto" and “Ojuelegba" and with Brymo- the smash hit- ‘Ara.’ Asides the grammy-winning “Black Skin Girl,” with Beyonce, Essence was a first hit collaboration in a while that Wizkid would drop that would feature a female Nigerian artist other than Tiwa Savage- his long-time collaborator.

Tems' unique voice commands attention because it is very sensual and laced with an irie vibe. The song which debuted on Billboard at number 67 had moved up to 44 by the time of filing this report.

Wizkid who reportedly lives in Ghana had the music video to the song shot in Accra on April 9, 2021 and just very recently the Canadian singersongwriter, Justin Bieber featured on the song's remix. Excitedly, Bieber would describe the song as the ‘song of the summer' on his Instagram post, alluding to Spotify's Summer music list in June which included the song. Of course, the song had earned its earliest recognition when US Former President, Barack Obama added it on his list of favourite songs for 2020.

Interestingly, the song had been critically received in leading music publications such as ‘Revolt’ and ‘Rolling Stone’ thanks to its digital release to the US market on June 29. Since then, it has made astronomical climb on prestigious music charts. Another version with an additional feature from Canadian singer Justin Bieber was released on August 13, 2021 and the song is

currently on number one US Digital World Song Sales (Billboard), number one on UK Afrobeats Single, 13 on US Hot R&B/Hip-hop (Billboard) and 23 on New Zealand Hot Singles.

Predictably, Nigerian music fans received the news of the remix with Bieber with mixed reactions. While many applauded it, a great number of fans argued that the song “needs no other body,” perhaps ignoring the fact that Bieber is not just anybody. He holds 31 Guinness World Records and surprisingly two grammy awards.

He is one of the best selling artists of all time, the youngest male to make it to the Billboard number one and a teen idol commanding fan dominance like the rock legends, Queen. Bieber is purely intoxicated with the song ‘Essence’ and you can tell from his Afrobeat dance to the song on the beach side video.

For music artists, UK and American markets are the biggest music markets in the world. And for Wizkid's Essence to cut through the noise and rise on music charts- that is a breakthrough.

Nigerian music fans who troll foreign artists when they jump on Nigerian songs for remixes

need some education. Music is serious business involving boardroom meetings, contracts, suit-and-tie and of course sales. Many fans seem to forget that. Sometimes, if not most times, music productions are economic necessities.

Imagine putting the net worth of Bieber and Wizkid on the balance scale, who really needs the other? Ironically, some Nigerian music fans who are active online try to speak for the rest of us on who should feature on Nigerian music artist's songs. Music is a universal language just as sports; there is no room for discrimination.

Hence, this jaundiced apathy against international collaborations is quite nauseating and needs to stop.

Truly, ‘Essence’ is a great song already with Tems and so is Luis Fonsi's Despacito which Bieber featured on its remix. Remixes are not new and will be here for life. You can either like or dislike a remix but it is not fair to make your preferences look like a national viewpoint. With the introduction of music streaming sites, music had become more global than it had ever been.

Collaborations, such as this, are indicators of the global energy in music and the shift towards Afrobeats. When the world was mad about reggae, it bred merchandising: fashion and art world replicated pieces of fashion accessories and wall paintings in the reggae colours: black, red, green and gold. Rather than trolling for no profit or shutting down social media platforms that can enhance its popularity, fortunes can be made from commercialising Afrobeats.

MUSIC

BABA ANI AT 85: THE REMINISCENCES OF A LONG-SERVING BAND MEMBER Yinka Olatunbosun

T

ajudeen Olalekan Animashaun – popularly known as Baba Ani – was a former band manager of Fela Anikulapo Kuti’s Africa 70 and Egypt 80 band. A baritone saxophonist, Baba Ani was a civil servant when he met Fela and his manager, Benson Idonije, who recruited most of the early band members. Precisely in February 1965, he joined Fela’s band, Koola Lobitos. After Fela’s death in 1997, he continued to serve the band and helped to mentor Seun, Fela’s youngest son as the foreman. His 52 years in Fela’s band makes him a record-holder in the history of music bands.

He has an album, which was released in 1995 and titled Low Profile.“Se rere”, a track in the album, is a soundtrack to Muhammad Ali movie Rumble in the Jungle.

In his Ikotun, Lagos residence, he recounted how his journey in music began with the musicologist and popular highlife musician, Pa Chris Ajilo as mentor. His elder brother, Waheed Williams who lived in the UK had sent two music instruments to him with a note to Pa Ajilo and that was the launchpad to music as well as learning to read and write it.

When asked why he stayed so dedicated to Fela over after his death, he explained that it was because Fela was not interested in commercial music.“Fela was not a musician who went about performing at naming ceremonies, marriages, housewarming but he came with his whole band and his mother-in-law, wife and children and performed at my wedding in front of the Oreofero mosque in 1967. He did me that honour, because

he never performed at any marriage ceremony of any m**********r in this country. Secondly, when Kalakuta Republic was burnt down, at 14A Agege Motor Road and most of the hotel owners did not want us to perform at their hotels because they were afraid of the military government, Fela and the band had to relocate. I was an environmental health officer and we performed in Ghana every weekend.

Although Fela could have taken anyone on my instrument, he was paying for my flight ticket from Lagos to Accra every Friday evening and from Accra to Lagos every Monday morning. Much as he would want me to perform for the band, he was also taking care of my interest in my government work as a civil servant.”

The third reason was that Fela’s music became a weapon of revolution after his first US tour, during which he met his girlfriend, Sandra Izsadore. Fela learnt more about African and indeed Black activism through Sandra and would later incorporate this in his music. That’s why Baba Ani called Fela a messiah.

“There was no prophet without a loyal follower. So, I decided to be his disciple,”he said.

As a band member, he saw first-hand how Fela developed Afrobeat, toured with Fela in Europe and sang against oppression and corruption. But at 85, Baba Ani thought Nigeria had not changed, as the ills still persist long after Fela’s death. Once in a while, he imagines what his life would have been like if he had deserted the band the way many band members did when they went on tours.

“We went to the Berlin Jazz Festival and by the time we came back, 11 people had left the band,”he recalled.

Fela’s critics also believed that his finances were poorly managed in his active years, causing rift between Fela and his band members.“There was a time that we went on strike. That time, he got some money and the first thing he did was to buy

Baba Ani three cars: one for Iya Marie, that is Kunle’s mom, one for his wife and one for JK Braimah. It was a time when people like Ebenezer Obey and Sunny Ade bought cars for two or three members of their band. We went on strike and at that time, his mother had to come to Lagos and send for us, appealing to us. One of the reasons why Fela was spending so much was that we had more than we needed when going on tour: his house help, a girlfriend that was not performing with the band and he had so many people in his household that he had to cater for. I think that was responsible for the way he was spending money.”

An average band member with Fela is a multiinstrumentalist. As a performer, Baba Ani plays

piano, baritone and tenor saxophone, shekere and other instruments that use treble clef. He grabbed his baritone saxophone which he called the grandmother of all saxophones and continued to enlighten his guest on the elements of highlife, traditional music and jazz that formed Afrobeat.

Despite his closeness to Fela, he said he never resided in the Kalakuta commune, recalling the day Fela’s Kalakuta was destroyed by‘unknown soldiers’ in 1977.“I was in my house at Ebute Metta, Bornu way. A neighbour just came in and told me that Fela’s house was razed. I and my second wife got into a taxi and by the time we got to the railway crossing, we saw people putting their arms on their head. We had to bend down in the taxi so that nobody would recognise us. We saw the place burning. We went back home. There was no phone then.”The 85-yearold seethed with anger, which was written on his face, as he recalled the incident. It had been 44 years since that invasion happened and the pain had left neither him nor any member of the Fela family.

Married to three wives and four children, he never felt the need to impose music skills on his children.

However, his last child is learning to play some instrument. Retirement opened a new chapter in Baba Ani’s life as he adheres to moderate eating habits, regular rehearsals while shunning smoking.

“I have not retired from music, I only retired from the band,”he declared.“That’s why I am still rehearsing some songs. If I go out and a favourite band of mine is performing, I could sing a song or two with a band like Dede Mabiaku’s and Yinka Alakija, Prime Quest Orchestra and Freedom Five.”

He has created a studio at home where he could mentor young folks who are gifted in or passionate about music. At this stage in his life, he would love to be remembered“as a man with integrity, a model of loyalty, a fighter on the side of the poor.’’

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THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER AUGUST 22, 2021

ARTS & REVIEW\\DISCOURSE

DESCENTFROMHUMANISM: LITERATURE,MUSICANDTHEMEDIA Toyin Falola

M

any would agree that when the core principles and values inherent in humanism–rationality, reason, compassion, human dignity, fellowfeeling, freedom, love, and kindness–are in deficit in society, a vacuum is created and all manner of dogmas, doctrines, superstitions, theories, and abstractions hold sway. Human values are required to be reassembled and restored as a result of these failings and pitfalls– which include war mongering, stoked by the availability of superior and sophisticated weaponry, moral bankruptcy such as corruption and the corruptibility of power, pride, greed, rapacious avarice, religious fanaticism, ethnic irredentism.

They defray from humanism and all need to be eliminated for the re-affirmation of humanity.

Among these pitfalls, also is the“robotization” and“thingification”of humanity, resulting from advanced technological innovation and artificial intelligence.

By electing to deploy literature, music, and the media among the diverse tools and fields of the humanities, to mediate its ideology, humanism, the thought of the choice of three, just three, rests on the three witches at the opening of William Shakespeare’s Macbeth. There is tempospatiality (time and space–of when and where); There is so much metaphorical witchcraft in the arts–all of them, literature, theatre, film, music, and the media. When you fold or scaffold time and ages into a few hours,“hold eternity in the air,”take on persons and characters into oneself, remove costumes and make-ups, and wake up instantly from death to active life without the miracle of Christ, confer immediacy upon news and news paces, record events into soundtracks and sound bites, and make them live in the real world, you confront the witchcraft and the magic of the arts–the humanities. So, the idea of echoing the witches and their witchcraft is not too far-fetched; after all; it is not stretching the imagination too thin, as is done in our vocational engagement in the arts.

The Yoruba Nollywood talks of Idan, which is magic. Apidan, the magic-makers, the theatricians, the actors, the storytellers, and the whole process of their art of creation on stage, screen, studios, and so on. And timing (the duration) of the clap-trap of lightning–the age of cataclysm, violent eruptions in the streets, outright warfare, which is actually what the witches were referring to, plagues, epidemics and pandemics, tornadoes, massive flooding, ravaging fires, earthquakes; chaos, banditry, kidnapping, dystopia, and the likes. These do not make the echoes of witches, magic, and the cult of Iyas (mothers) too intriguing or too dissimilar to the world of the arts.

In all the ages, writers covet the news space for self-expression to say the things that must be said urgently and to test the waters of their creation as they form words from their thoughts–poetry, prose, drama sketches. In that sense, there is an intriguing love relationship between the media and literature. Throughout time, men of letters seek refuge in the media as they mould their blocks of expression that are later turned into books. The role of newspapers in the evolution of literature drew the writers into the waiting arms of the media, newspapers to be specific, in a relationship that has become permanent, as the newspapers, periodicals, and journals and their creators themselves became a new type of literature and literary artists. Therefore, from the 18th century on, the inventors of the periodical essays extended the tactic of the fictitious self into the new territory and became writers.

All over the world, including in Nigeria, overt and subtle control proved incapable of stemming the growth of the media industry. The creeping in of censorship to control the opinions and feelings expressed in rapidly popularizing media had begun to accommodate issues and topics on politics, the lives of public individuals and businesses. Its popularity generated the desire of governments to control what would come out in the newspaper the following morning. Patricians and politicians tried hard

Professor Olu Obafemi to control the press, to dictate its views, and to contain its criticisms, but in Britain (and I daresay everywhere, including in Nigeria), the media and literary realms and phenomena proved too large for such‘arrant limitations.’

Getting too hot and pinching the skin and the nerves, the government created“licensers of the press”to hunt down heretical and seditious publications and through strict licensing laws to limit the flow and narrow the range of newsprint, but whenever these laws lapsed, innovations in newspapers abounded before new forbidding laws are created. The bid to kill freedom of speech, arising from the gradual dehumanizing capacity and strategies of the powerful, had been there and it remains with us today. We must reach out to our society where the contribution of the media in those early days of independence struggle was valiantly resisted by the colonial authority.

The politicians (civilian and military) inherited that strategy to control and censor the media.

The draconic decrees to muzzle and snuff out freedom of the press and literature are evidence of the descent from humanism, derived from debased and depraved corruption of power in our country and continent.

Literature stands as a bridge-head between music and the media. Just as the media and literature are inextricably linked in a Siamese-twins relationship, so do literature and music bond in close affinity such that, many times, it became difficult to draw distinct lines between the two.

Poets were considered as failed musicians and musicians as failed poets, and when those whom the world considers pop culture musicians began to win the Nobel Prize for literature (Bob Dylan, for instance), the separation line between the two blurs and melts into oblivion. Music became a friend of the media as literature, a friend of music, is the original friend of the media. So much for the justification of the meeting of three subfields of the humanities for mediating humanism!

As succinctly captured above, humanism, which I consider the ideological plank of humanity, reclines on the principles of reason and rationality. To attain a better society where love, humane value, and freedom reign, away from excessive religiosity (not religion), the human agency places the power for individual action in some other forces outside of the self and has brought so much human destruction since many centuries ago. There abound myriad theories of humanism since the age of the Renaissance. For instance, humanistic psychology emerged in the mid-20th century as a rebuttal to the limiting cynicisms of Sigmund Freud’s psychoanalytic theory, and B. F. Skinner’s behaviourism provides “a perspective that emphasizes’’and‘stresses concepts such as free will and self-efficacy.”In line with my offering above, humanism has been rendered as a“philosophy that stresses the importance of human factors rather than looking at religious,

divine, or spiritual matters.”It is perceived as being “rooted in the idea that people have an ethical responsibility to lead lives that are personally fulfilling while at the same breath, contributing to the greater good for all people.”

The essence of humanism is its advancement of the significance of human values and dignity. People possess the capacity to solve their problems through rational and scientific means to attain the fulfilment of individual and communal ideals and to transform the world into a better liveable place for all people. For many centuries, the tragic emotions and irrationality that dominate religious dogmas and fanaticism, leading to extreme violent movements on intra-religious bases, have had lethal and mortal outcomes on humanity. To the media, the question is, how much information have they rendered to us in recent times, and in our search for truth which ought to promote peace but have provoked wars and battlements?

I will like to write on the passionate assessment of the descent to the barbarism of the media– traditional and social–in Nigeria and elsewhere to get a perspective of the state of our and the world’s media. On February 21, a prominent Nigerian female journalist, Kadaria Ahmed, gave a very passionate, captivating, and no holds barred address titled“My Message to the Nigeria Media,” whose altruism has been challenged by other prominent journalists. Kadaria Ahmed’s address would have simply gone down as a classic on the need and essence of media practitioners to shun ethnic profiling and return to the traditional, noble profession of truth-telling and leading the nation aright in times of national crisis. Kadaria wrote thus: It is with a heavy heart, worried of Nigeria and a sense of impending doom That I am sending this to you, my colleagues, Let me begin with a question; What exactly will we gain if Nigeria descends into war?

How does it advance us if our fellow citizens turn on each other And begin large-scale ethnic killings against each other…

How does enabling ethnic strife help to achieve this objective?

For some time now, a lot of us has thrown away the book on ethical reporting Propelled by emotion, we have betrayed every moral consideration That assigns our noble profession But the critical probing to the other side of the coin happily carried out by Tayo Olu in The Whistler of February 15, 2021, titled“Attack on Nigerian Media,”has helped to put the“attack”by Kadaria in context without necessarily defraying from the value of her address.

Tayo Olu shed light on the reaction of Kadaria’s colleagues’overt“scathing criticism of journalists’

reportage of the herdsmen crisis in the country” and for“fanning the flames of ethnic hate through their coverage of the crisis involving mainly the Fulani ethnic group.”Reactions came first from the Chairman of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Chapter, Emmanuel Ogbeche, Ibanga Isine of Next Edition, and Ekhator Ehi, among others. The rationale of these accusations and counter-accusations among media practitioners is the reality of crass partisanship in the media at a time when they should be the true watchdog of the common folks on whose behalf they ought to speak truth to power and denounce agents of violence and crime. At a time when our humanity is badly assailed on all fronts, the media should be a rallying point and not a house of raucous voices.

Social media, on its part, has nearly swamped the traditional media in this digital age. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, WhatsApp, Linked In, and the likes have become dominant tools of engagement all over the world, and our country has embraced it irreversibly. Whereas it has increased the democratic space and has been deployed by both government and the citizens, it is radically redefining the nature of engagement (especially political) between the citizens and the state all over the world. It has also generated a lot of conflict and tension because of its massive usage and has brought the two into more direct interaction, and the government can no longer monopolize free speech. Its power (the power of technology that it uses) lies in its immediacy, speed, political reach, and its uncontrollability.

It is projected that in the next few years in Nigeria, the deployment of social media will increase“by more than 80 percent with more than 44 million people accessing online forms in a demography of about 200 million.”The state worries about the potential of social media abuses to undermine the state and‘threaten the corporate existence of the nation. Yet, apart from its capacity to widen dialogue space, its economic development/utility reality, put at about 10 percent of the nation’s gross domestic product and used by nearly 25 million people, makes it unstoppable in Nigeria. There is the debate of the mutual advantage of communication technology (in which Twitter is critical) to both government and the citizens and, thus, the increasing local, national, and international criticism of Twitter’s censor as impeding the nation’s humanity and freedom of expression. As this debate rages, the state must tread softly in its drive to hammer social media, recognize its universal nature, its mutual advantage in a democracy, and its humanizing power.

And to music, I find the danger of the descent of humanism pointedly depicted in the music of I. K. Dairo, as far back as the early sixties, and which still rings screamingly prophetic today. His album Ise Ori Ran mi ni mo se (loosely translated as“I do the job assigned to me by destiny”) ramifies this message of the need to restore humanism in society. Every line of this album warns against the dehumanizing power of greed and self-debasement in the search for sudden and filthy wealth.

The inordinate search for crass materialism demeans and dehumanizes the world and sets it on the path of descending humanism. Many of our musicians; Fela, Idreez, and so on, make this frantic call on all of us, especially the state, to pursue the path of humanizing society As we all know, literature is a reflection of society, in the manner of a mirror. Beyond mere reflection, it refracts society in the way that the soul breathes life into the body. Literature, therefore, as an arm of the creative industry, endows, ennobles, and enriches a nation’s humanity. It advertises and tells its story. Politics and matters of an imperatively political nature have, for instance, in the African experience, preoccupied the literary establishment. Since the colonial aegis, our writers have put their songs and stories in the service of humanizing our society, committed to the fact that“the poet speaks not for himself only but also for his fellowmen. His cry is their cry, which only he can utter.”All this is in the project of reconstructing society in the moment of declining, degenerating humanity, and the pursuit of viable nationhood and the world order. ˾ ÒÓÝ ÓÝ ËØ ÏâÍÏÜÚÞ ÙÐ ÞÒÏ ÙØàÙÍËÞÓÙØ ÏÍÞßÜÏ ÎÏÖÓàÏÜÏÎ ÎßÜÓØÑ ÞÒÏ ͓͓͑͒ ÓÑÏÜÓËØ ÍËÎÏ×ã ÙÐ ÏÞÞÏÜÝ

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THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER AUGUST 22, 2021

INTERNATIONAL From Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan to Boko Haramism in Nigeria: TheThick andThin Issues

‘’Y

ou have nothing to fear. Between Vietnamese there are no victors and no vanquished. Only the Americans have been defeated.’This was the statement of the North Vietnamese Colonel Bui Tin when Saigon (South Vietnam) fell into the hands of the Communist North Vietnam and he accepted their surrender on 30 April, 1975. By that time, not less than 58,000 Americans had been killed because of the US intervention on the side of South Vietnam.

President John F. Kennedy first sent a large American force in 1961 to assist the South Vietnamese government. In 1964, President B. Lyndon not only approved the bombing raids on North Vietnam, but also the use of US troops. In fact, there were 300,000 US soldiers in the country by that time and the number of soldiers reached 550,000 in 1969. While the number of soldiers was on the increase, so was the number of deaths and casualties, a situation that led to heated opposition and protests against US intervention back home. President Richard Nixon was compelled to begin the withdrawal of US troops, even though he still authorized an increased air bombing, which was to no avail. The same was also true of the Paris Ceasefire Agreement done by the US, North Vietnam, South Vietnam and Viet Cong (National Liberation Front of South Vietnam, a Communist revolutionary group) in January 1973. North Vietnam did not respect the ceasefire accord. In short, 30 April 1975 witnessed the airlifting out of South Vietnam of the last batch of Americans. The United States had not succeeded.

Many politologists have likened the withdrawal of the US troops from Afghanistan to the Saigon experience, and therefore do believe that the United States has failed again. But has the United States really failed? What really is the US military objective in Afghanistan when compared to the Saigon experience? While the immediate main objective in Vietnam was to prevent the spread of communism in Indochina and ultimately also contain the communist takeover in Thailand, Laos, and Malaya, the ultimate objective in Afghanistan was to put terrorism under control, following the September 11, 2001 saga.

EndingTerrorismandTalibanisation The Vietnam War, generally referred to as the Second Indochina war, was fought from 1 November 1955 through 30 April 1975. The US anti-terrorism war in Afghanistan began from 11 September, 2001 when a Boeing 757 hit the Pentagon and the nose of American Airlines Flight 77 also hit the second floor. Comparatively, the Vietnam war lasted for over nineteen and a half years. That of Afghanistan lasted for twenty-one years.

In terms of war objectives in Afghanistan, the immediate and long-term objective was to neutralize al-Qaida and the Taliban that are playing host to terrorism and extremism. The US also had a secondary objective of laying the foundation for democracy and liberating Afghan women and children in the country.

Following the notice of withdrawal of US troops on 1st May, 2020, first under the Donald Trump administration and then part withdrawal under President Joe Biden, on 2nd July, 2021 and final withdrawal on 31st August, 2021 to take place before the 20th anniversary of 9/11 this year, the Taliban insurgency was consciously heightened, forcing the Afghan President, Professor Ashraf Ghani, to abandon his office and flee to United Arab Emirates for safety. His reason for that, allegedly, was to prevent unnecessary bloodshed with the imminent takeover of power by the Taliban who already overran Kabul, the capital of Afghanistan.

This re-Talibanisation of Afghanistan raises many questions of interest to be answered by academics, politicians, policy technocrats and students of Afghan politics. The Taliban, ousted from power in 1999 by a US-led Euro-American coalition forces, returned to Kabul on Monday, 15th August, 2021 and changed the name of the country to Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan. Before then, the country was referred to as the Emirate of Afghanistan from 1823 to 1826, and also in 1829; Islamic State (or Islamic Republic) of Afghanistan from 1992 to 2002. Even though the country has a motto that says ‘there is no god but Allah. Muhammad is the messenger of Allah,’ and a national anthem saying‘The Home of the Brave,’the bravery of the country amounted to nothing under the superior fire power of the US-led coalition forces and with the American mainmise of the country until 2021. The coalition force comprised over 70,000 US troops and about 35,000 NATO and coalition forces. Their mission was codenamed Operation Enduring Freedom. The Coalition operated on the basis of Article V of the NATO Treaty according to which‘an attack on one is an attack on all.’

One question of interest that has been raised is how to explain the fact that the President of Afghanistan, Professor Ashraf Ghani,

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Onyeama authored a book entitled‘’Fixing a Failed State,’with Clare Lockhart, but has not been able to fix a failing Afghanistan. Rather than wait to fix it, he fled to United Arab Emirates (UAE), when the Taliban soldiers arrived in the city of Kabul. In the words of the UAE government, President Ghani was given asylum on the basis of ‘humanitarian considerations.’From the perspective of Professor Ghani, he left Kabul to prevent the loss of Afghan lives. In this case, is the Taliban government legitimate under international law? Is Professor Ghani right to abandon his people without leadership?

What is the likely new face of the Taliban in government?

With this development, and particularly with the emerging heightened situation of insecurity in the country, have the Americans done well or miscalculated strategically? The experiential explanation of Admiral Stavridis, the 16th Supreme Allied Commander at NATO, is quite relevant at this juncture. He wrote on August 16, 2021 on his 20-year experience in Afghanistan and pointed to the success and attainment of US objectives, but at a heavy cost.

As he put it,‘over three thousand US and allied dead, tens of thousands with significant wounds, and a few trillion dollars expended – to say nothing of hundreds of thousands of Afghans killed and wounded as well.’But is the whole worth it, Admiral Stavridis asked and also answered as follows:‘in some ways, every war is a tragic waste of time, treasure and, most importantly, blood… [T]he troops who fought in Afghanistan can hold their heads up with pride in one crucial way: we were sent to Afghanistan to find and bring to justice the 9/11 attackers, and, more importantly, to prevent another attack on the US homeland emanating from that ungoverned space. For twenty years, we did that. Those troops stood on a wall on the other side of the world defending our nation.’

Speaking specifically on US gains in Afghanistan, Admiral Stavridis has it that‘millions of people can now read and write, many of them girls and women. Life expectancy has increased dramatically, while child mortality is significantly down. Access to information, tech start-ups, better infrastructure and medical treatment are real, although much is at risk as the Taliban seize power.’

In the words of President Joe Biden, on Monday, 16th August, 2021,‘American troops cannot and should not be fighting in a war that Afghan forces are not willing to fight for themselves.’This statement is a justification for the US withdrawal from Afghanistan.

Another thin issue is the question of recognition of the Taliban government in international relations. Nigeria has the tradition of generally recognizing States and stricto sensu, not governments. Governments are recognized by Nigeria within the context of her policy of State recognition. By implication, it can be expected that relations with the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan will remain, even if the relationship is still nothing to write home about. However, if any attempt is made to Afghanise Nigeria by way of heightening terrorist insurrection in Nigeria, the relationship cannot but become seriously strained and the recognition of the Taliban cannot but also become a new major issue. Above all, the thick and thin issue is not only the national unity in Afghanistan, but also in Nigeria. How do we prevent the saga in Afghanistan from becoming a new threat to Nigeria’s corporate existence? How can Government evolve a policy of self-reliancism in the mania of Professor Kolawole Ogundowole of the University of Lagos? Without scintilla of doubt, Nigeria needs a well-articulated special policy of selfreliance that will be driven by high motivation and serve as a basis for Nigeria’s international engagements

Another justification, Joe Biden has also said, is that the objectives of US intervention in Afghanistan have been achieved, and therefore, there is no justification for staying any longer in the country.

More important President said he stood strongly behind his decision to withdraw US troops. In his words,‘after twenty years I’ve learned the hard way that there was never a good time to withdraw U.S. forces. That’s why we’re still there.’And true enough, the US has been giving active support to the Taliban since the Soviet-Afghan war that lasted from 24 December, 1979 to 15 February 1989. It was a guerrilla war fought by many insurgent groups against Soviet invasion of the then Democratic Republic of Afghanistan during the Cold War. The Afghan Mujahedeen then fought the Soviets to standstill and compelled the Soviets to withdraw and sign the 1988 Geneva Victory Accords, while the war continued. But the strategic calculations of the former Soviet Union were in direct conflict with those of the United States. The Soviets acted on the basis of their Brezhnev doctrine, according to which a country that became Socialist would not be allowed by the Kremlin leaders to return to the capitalist camp again. As for the United States, the main challenge is the application of their own Doctrine of Containment of communism. It is on the basis of these conflicting doctrines that the US support for the Taliban should be seen and understood.

The Taliban, founded by Mullar Mohammad Omar, who led the militants until he died in 2013, was essentially comprised of the Mujahedeen. The Taliban emerged in 1994 in Kandahar and the United States had to give active support to the Taliban through the Mujahedeen who not only were fighting against the Soviets but who also joined the Taliban following the Soviet withdrawal from Afghanistan in 1989. The withdrawal was immediately followed by a civil war. The Taliban took control of Kandahar in 1994 with very little resistance and captured Kabul in 1996.

The fundamental problem with the Taliban government that warrants international hostility against it and on the basis of which there may be serious implications for Nigeria’s foreign policy is the Taliban ideology: belief in the strict application of Sharia law in accordance with its own interpretation. The Taliban impose public executions and floggings; prevention of women from working and studying; wearing an all-covering burqa by women in the public; destruction of cultural artifacts that are different from theirs; hostility to Western education; and perhaps most disturbingly, provision of sanctuary for terrorist activities, especially in the mania of Osama Bin Laden. When the Twin Towers were brutally attacked on 9/11, the US-led coalition forces invaded Afghanistan in December 2001 and compelled the Taliban government to flee to the south and east of Afghanistan, and across the border to Pakistan. It is from these areas that the Taliban began to launch counter-bombing attacks on the US-backed government in Kabul.

And more importantly, in 2020 the United States opted to negotiate a peace agreement with the Taliban on the timetable for US withdrawal of troops in exchange for stoppage of Taliban attacks on Americans and entering into talks with the Afghan government. Unfortunately, the agreement was to no avail as the peace efforts were those of peace-making through intensified warring. In the tradition of Von Clausewitz, if you want peace, prepare for war. It is within this context that there are issues and challenges for Nigeria to address and that the thick and the thin issues have to be addressed.

ThickandThinIssuesfromAfghanistan There are two categories of issues that not only threaten national sovereignty but also have the potential to impact on Nigeria’s foreign and defence policies: the thick and thin issues. The thick issues bother more about core national interests, while the thin issues are the related peripheral questions. As regards the thick issues, there is the first question of military attitude in Afghanistan. The Afghan Defence Forces did not bother to resist the Taliban onslaught. Why is this so? Were they overwhelmed? Were they protesting against the Professor Ghani government? Were they in support of the Taliban struggle? How do we explain the fast speed of the Taliban takeover, especially in light of the fact that not less than $83 billion was incurred to train and equip the Afghan army and in spite of the factor of military personnel of 300,699 people compared to 80,000 men for the Taliban?

Indeed, the United States predicted the eventual takeover by the Taliban but never anticipated the fast speed and ease with which the takeover took place. More surprisingly, the fall of the Afghan government is another question entirely. One explanation for this is that the Afghan army is formidable on paper, but in reality, they are plagued‘by corruption, payoffs, poor leadership, lack of training and plummeting morale for years.’According to France 24,‘the government outpost in Imam Sahib, a district of Kunduz province, held out for two months against the Taliban. But resources and supply run soon dwindled. In the last days, there was no food, no water and no weapons.’

More noteworthy is the fact that‘troops on the front line in Afghanistan’s second largest city Kandahar were given one cardboard box full of slimy potatoes for an entire police unit’s daily ration last week.’The Washington Post adds that the Kandahar police had not been paid for more than six months before the Taliban took over.’Thus, the environmental conditioning of national resistance to the Taliban was not good. It was already and unnecessarily compromised.

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Editor: Ejiofor Alike SMS: 08066066268 email:ejiofor.alike@thisdaylive.com

IN THE ARENA

Bloodier Plateau, Dodgier Interventions

The Saturday August 14 senseless massacre of ‘travelling pilgrims’ along Rukuba road, off Gadabiyu, in Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State, again draws attention to a fundamentally flawed security architecture, Louis Achi writes

I

t is conceptually impossible that Plateau State should be an island of security sanity in a sea of security chaos which Nigeria currently represents. Should this scenario then excuse or validate the intensifying bloodshed on what once represented the nation’s Middle Belt paradise? Certainly not.

On Saturday, August 14, 2021, 22 travellers coming from a religious event in Bauchi State, who passed along Rukuba road axis of Jos, the Plateau State capital, were killed with 17 others injured.

The Plateau State Police Command confirmed the figures. Initial conjectures held that the victims were religious pilgrims from Ondo and Ekiti states returning from Bauch in a convoy of buses.

An obviously helpless Governor Simon Lalong of Plateau State swiftly imposed a 24-hour curfew on Jos North, Jos South and Bassa local government areas, following the attack in these areas. The action, according to the governor, was to forestall further security threats.

But despite the dusk-to-dawn curfew imposed on the area, five persons have been killed in what appeared to be a reprisal attack on a village at Bassa Local Government Area of the state by suspected herdsmen.

The Secretary General of Irigwe Development Association, Mr. Danjuma Auta, said in a statement that Chando-Zrrechi (Tafi-Gana village) was attacked by “Fulani herdsmen.”

But in a swift response, the chairman of Miyeti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, (MACBAN) Plateau State Chapter, Mr. Nura Abdullahi, denied the allegation, saying it was false.

On his part, President Muhammadu Buhari, who directed the security agencies to fish out the perpetrators of the gruesome murder and bring them to justice, noted that the state was one of the states affected by herder-farmer clashes.

“However, to be clear, this is not an agriculturalist-on-pastoralist confrontation - but rather a direct, brazen and wickedly motivated attack on members of a community exercising their rights to travel freely and to follow the faith of their choosing. With the evident preparedness of their attackers, it is clear this was a well-conceived and pre-arranged assault on a known target, location and religious persuasion of the travellers; not an opportunistic ambush,” he further stated.

The presidency also commended the efforts by the governors of Plateau,

Lalong Bauchi, and Ondo states; the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Sa’ad Abubakar III; and Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi as well as a number of notable Christian and Muslim leaders as they intensified efforts to calm down the situation.

The bloody incident of Saturday, August 14, spawns several legitimate posers. Who is responsible for the attack on travelling pilgrims? What are the consequences in law for such inhuman impunity? Are such consequences often non-selectively enforced? Do non-state actors receive clandestine support of the state as being increasingly alleged?

Is there a larger agenda underlying the bloody campaigns ravaging the Northcentral region? What is the use or place of centralised policing architecture in a modern federal state? Is the current justice system up to speed?

In the immediate aftermath of the kill-

engaged in burying their dead, killed in the now familiar violence. Of course, this does not excuse lawlessness and impunity, assuming they were involved. That the security forces could not proactively scale-up security along Rukuba area leading to Miango, a potential flashpoint on that day remains puzzling.

Looking at the big picture, the unwillingness or incapacity of the nation’s security forces to decisively cage insecurity is clearly responsible for this recurring deaths and destruction - both in the North-central region and across Nigeria.

It could be recalled that a week before the massacre of the pilgrims, the paramount ruler of the Irigwe ethnic nationality in Plateau State, His Royal Highness, the Bra Ngwe Irigwe, Rt Rev Ronku Aka, had lamented the tragedy that befell his people in the Bassa Local Government Area, following the recent invasion of their communities by gunmen suspected to be herdsmen.

The traditional ruler said the destruction that took place in his kingdom had further exposed the handicap of the governors and the council chairmen as chief security officers in their respective areas of jurisdiction in the country.

His words: “I don’t blame the local government chairman in Bassa or the governor of the state over the calamity that has befallen my people. At peace meetings, the governor will give order but the security men will go and do a different thing.

“During the recent attacks in my communities, the soldiers and other security operatives were around. As the invaders were carrying out the attacks in Jebu ings, the Irigwe youths were quickly Miango and advancing to other communifingered by the police. Is the police position backed by thorough investigation or ties we expected them to confront the invaders and stop the destruction going convenient assumption? on but that did not happen.

From checks, Irigwe communities in “When I enquired what was happening, Plateau State before now have come some soldiers cried to me that they did under unceasing assaults by killers over not receive the order to repel the attackthe past months. The fingers here point ers of the communities. Some of them at Fulani herdsmen - rightly or wrongly. who expressed frustration over the situMore importantly, security responses to ation wondered the essence of holding these attacks have been unfortunately guns, which they could not use and left questionable. the scene while the attackers continued It has been alleged that despite months with their destruction in the communiof attacks on Irigwe communities, the ties.” police have never issued a statement or Indeed, the poor response of the security identified those behind the attacks. forces to attacks on a specific party in But the police were quick to accuse the Irigwes of carrying out the attacks on the the crisis has increasingly fuelled allegations of official endorsement of the Muslim travellers. attacks.

This obviously generates deep distrust.

As Plateau State gets bloodier and the More, the latest bloody Jos killing happened on a day the Irigwe community was so-called interventions get even dodgier, who bells the cat?

P O L I T I CA L N OT E S

Will Dickson Succumb Like Akpabio?

Dickson

Former governor of Bayelsa State and senator representing Bayesla West in the National Assembly, Senator Seriake Dickson was on August 10, 2021, grilled by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, (EFCC).

Dickson has disclosed that he was interrogated over alleged diversion of N17.5billion ecological funds and assets declaration breaches.

He, however, expressed surprise that he was confronted with the case of alleged diversion of N17.5 billion ecological funds not contained in the EFCC invitation.

According to him, the commis-

sion had accused him of funding his re-election in 2019 with the funds.

“However on getting to the commission, the investigating team came up with a new allegation of diversion of flood funds in 2012 totalling N17.5 billion. The petition further alleged that the money was used for my re-election in 2019.

The fact is that there was no such donation about the 2012 flood in Bayelsa.

“Curiously, there was no mention of donor or where the money came from,” he added.

Is Dickson, a strong PDP senator, being harassed so that he could

defect to the ruling party like a former Governor of Akwa Ibom State and Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio?

EFCC had in 2015 allegedly commenced probe of Akpabio over alleged theft of N108.1billion, following a petition forwarded to the commission by an Abuja-based lawyer and activist, Leo Ekpenyong.

However, nobody knows the outcome of the probe since he defected to the APC. Will Dickson succumb?

The events of the next few months will reveal the senator’s next step.

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BRIEFINGNOTES Can Masari’s Call for Self-help Curb Banditry in Katsina?

After his amnesty programme for repentant bandits collapsed twice, Katsina State Governor, Mr. Aminu Bello Masari, has advised the residents of the state to rise up and defend themselves against bandits.

Ejiofor Alike reports that insecurity may worsen in the state if the residents are allowed to bear arms as suggested by the governor

F

ormer Nigeria’s Head of State, Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd), had earlier this year raised the alarm over the proliferation of weapons, which he estimated at six million.

He cited Boko Haram insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, increasing poverty, and the calls for the balkanisation of the country from different quarters, as some of the factors fuelling proliferation of weapons in the country.

Abubakar, who is also the Chairman of the National Peace Committee (NPC), had painted the grim picture of affairs in the country at a dialogue session of the committee with key stakeholders in Abuja.

Abdulsalami reportedly said: “The proliferation of all calibre of weapons not only in our sub-region in general and in Nigeria in particular is worrying. It is estimated that there are over six million of such weapons in circulation in the country.

This certainly exacerbated the insecurity that led to over 80,000 deaths and close to three million internally displaced persons.”

With the circulation of such number of light weapons, which has fuelled insecurity, it was surprising that Katsina State governor, Mr. Bello Masari would advise the residents of the state to procure arms and defend themselves against bandits.

The Katsina State governor on Tuesday reportedly approved a resort to self-help and asked his people to acquire weapons in defence against terror and banditry.

Masari, according to a statement issued by his Director-General on Media, Mr. Abdu Labaran Malumfashi, argued that it was morally wrong for people to submit meekly to the bandits without any attempt to defend themselves, insisting that security was everybody’s business.

According to him, it was the people’s meek submission that emboldened the bandits to continue with their heinous activities with murderous frequency.

Masari was no doubt, frustrated by the unceasing reign of terror and banditry in his state after the collapse of the amnesty programme he instituted twice for the repentant bandits.

The governor had in June 2020, vowed never to grant amnesty to bandits again, saying his government was betrayed on two occasions by bandits after they were granted a pardon.

He complained that the bandits always violated the peace deals, and that his

Masari government had been betrayed twice.

In an interview granted the BBC Hausa, the governor lamented that some bandits, who had accepted amnesty betrayed his government and became enemies of the state, and were among those fuelling insecurity in the state.

He said his government in 2016, initiated an Amnesty Programme for bandits and that the programme was initially successful until some of the bandits reneged on the agreement and went back to carrying out their evil activities.

But five months after he swore never to grant amnesty to bandits again, the governor on November 4, 2020, granted amnesty to two bandits - a 30-year-old

Sale Turwa and 33-year-old Muhammed Sani Maidaji.

The two surrendered 10 AK-47 rifles to the governor during a meeting attended by heads of security agencies in the state, including the police, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).

The state Commissioner of Police (CP) Sanusi Buba, told Masari that the security chiefs believed it was in the state’s interest to accept the bandits’ remorse and forgive them, so as to encourage other bandits to do the same.

In his response, Masari said he would no longer negotiate with the bandits but would be willing to listen to those that

voluntarily seek peace.

He said, “I have instructed the security operatives to deal ruthlessly with the bandits until they are rendered permanently ineffective. We are no more going to negotiate with them, but if on their volition they decide to renounce their violent criminal ways and embrace peace, we are ready to listen to them.”

The Secretary to the State Government, Mustapha Inuwa, had revealed that the state government spent N30 million on the last failed amnesty programme.

According to him, the funds were used to buy the surrendered weapons from repentant bandits.

When a prominent Islamic cleric, Shekh Ahmad Gumi, began his campaign for amnesty for the bandits, the Katsina State governor opposed him, insisting that even animals killed deserve justice much less human beings. He told Gumi that the bandits killing Nigerians in the north do not deserve amnesty.

The Katsina State governor had in an interview with THISDAY, stated that the bandits betrayed the state government after previous attempts to grant them amnesty.

“Amnesty for who? Look, Gumi is doing it in 2021, we did it in 2016. At least there is something to learn from us.

“When we started the dialogue in 2016, 95 per cent of the herders living in the forest were not criminals but what is the situation today? Majority of the herders living in the forest today are bandits.

“Gumi should have been preaching to them on the fear of God; to understand the implications of killing somebody but certainly not amnesty because even animals are not allowed to be killed unjustly let alone human beings. He should also let the bandits know the value of their own religion.”

The governor had last week told the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Farouk Yahaya, that the state was under severe attacks by bandits and kidnappers, a situation he said had left 10 out of the 34 local government areas of the state vulnerable.

However, with the collapse of the amnesty programme and the apparent inability of the security forces to curb banditry, encouraging the people to bear arms is not the best option as it will only fuel proliferation of small arms and worsen the insecurity in the state.

NOTES FOR FILE

Lalong: How Not to Play Politics with Insecurity It is always good to be united against a common enemy or condemn evil when one sees any. This is the story of Governor Simon Lalong of Plateau State.

A few years ago when marauding herdsmen turned Benue State to a killing field, rather condemn the action or sympathise with Governor Samuel Ortom and the people of the state, Lalong taunted Ortom.

The Plateau State governor told the world that he had warned the Benue State governor against implementing the state anti-grazing law, stressing that the implementation of the

law caused the killings.

Though he later apologised, not many people took him serious because his state has always been a hotbed for attacks and killings by herdsmen, even though it has no anti-open grazing law.

The battle has shifted to Plateau State where hundreds of people including children, and women were being massacred.

But rather than taunt him, Ortom issued a statement sympathising with his Plateau State counterpart over the dastardly act. In a statement signed by his Chief Press

Secretary, Terver Akase, the governor condemned the attacks, describing the killings as ‘barbaric, inhuman and unfortunate,’ which was what the Plateau governor ought to have done when Benue State suffered the same fate.

Plateau State has no anti-open grazing law but yet blood has been flowing in the state in the last one week. Examinations were canceled, while schools were shut down. Tension has enveloped the entire state with curfews imposed.

This is what happens when killings are being unnecessarily politicised.

Lalong

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Yahaya Bello

Will the People’s Constitution Save Nigeria from Disintegration?

A people’s constitution seems to be the panacea to Nigeria’s numerous challenges but the modalities of its enactment have remained controversial, Vanessa Obioha reports

T

he call to restructure Nigeria has been a daily hum since this administration returned for a second term.

All over the country, from the North, East, West and South, political and religious leaders are clamouring for a radical change in the structure of the country that will give every Nigerian a sense of belonging.

To begin this process of restructuring the country, agitators argue that the 1999 Constitution must be revisited. Seen as a flawed document imposed on the people by a military regime, the constitution has been subjected to varying degrees of criticisms. For instance, some call for devolution of powers from the central government to states, while others call for regional control over resources. To other disenchanted groups, restructuring only means having their own independent nations. Some believe that the country does not need to restructure.

They argue that Nigerians should restructure their minds; that is, by sowing the seed of unity right from their community, instead of discord.

President Muhammadu Buhari is in the last category. He has consistently disregarded the notion of restructuring, describing those agitating for it as naive.

The differing views on restructuring make the term such an ambiguous word in Nigerian politics.

To be sure, restructuring can be best described as a transition from a lopsided federal political structure to true federalism characterised by political inclusiveness, people-oriented constitutional amendments, resource control, transparent electoral process, political representation, protection of lives and properties, and building of enduring political infrastructure.

Another definition considers the term as a constitution review strategy aimed at helping the central government shed some of its powers and responsibilities and granting implementation to constituent units. It is aimed at bringing the government as close as possible to the people at the grassroots.

Yet, despite these cries, there has been no concrete evidence that the discourse is advancing, rather Nigeria appears stuck in a whirlpool.

This is not the first time the 1999 Constitution has been subjected to scrutiny. Since the 1960s, the Nigerian constitution has undergone one amendment or the other. In 2014, during former

President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration, a national conference was inaugurated to amend the lopsided sections of the constitution. With the state of the nation caused by increased insecurity and economic challenges, similar actions were taken recently by a Senate committee spearheading the process but the response in addressing the over 200 memoranda it received has not been swift.

Offering his views on the clamour for a people’s constitution at the fifth edition of The Osasu Show (TOS) Symposium in Abuja, a former AttorneyGeneral of the Federation, Mohammed Adoke plumbed the theme ‘State of the Nation and the People’s Constitution.’

In his argument, the former AGF highlighted four pertinent issues plaguing the nation. They include the structure of the state and the devolution of powers, political marginalisation which he said is not peculiar to geopolitical considerations, but extends also to the religious divide within the country, especially between Christians and Muslims; separatists and resource control agitations.

However, to effectively tackle these problems, Adoke proffered making a people’s constitution and promoting good governance in the polity. He argued that the majority of Nigerians believe that the 1999 Constitution is faulty and is responsible for the hydra-headed problems Nigeria faces today, a view that Governor Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia State, a participant in the symposium, also expressed.

“The proponents of this view refer to the preamble to the constitution which states that ‘We, the People of the Federal Republic of Nigeria having firmly and solemnly resolved…’ as fraudulent since the ‘people’ were not consulted by the military before the constitution was enacted,” Adoke said.

He also pointed out that the absence of a Constituent Assembly made up of elected representatives of the people or a referendum that could have validated the constitution is also a reason many lack faith in the 1999 document.

Ikpeazu, on his part, said that the challenge confronting leaders is how they can remobilise Nigerians to move forward because according to him, the people mistrust leaders.

“What it means is that despite the fact that the constitution of any country is supreme, above the constitution is the superior power of the people.

This places a big question mark on the strategies we are deploying to amend the constitution, the 1999 constitution.

“We seem to have put the same set of people in the fore to give us a new constitution, which in my opinion amounts to putting new wine in an old skin. As we move toward drafting or amending our constitution, who are the people of Nigeria?”

Describing the people’s constitution as a form of identity and ownership to the people, Adoke, therefore, said that the process of making such a constitution must include the language of the people. He cited examples of the Tanzanian constitution, which is written in the country’s original language Swahili, and South Africa’s translated in the indigenous languages of the country.

But with the cultural diversity of Nigeria, this approach seems dead on arrival. How would the Igbo man feel if the Yoruba language was adopted as the language of the constitution, or the Hausa man if the Yoruba language was the ideal? What about the minority groups such as Ibibio, Ijaw and Bini? Will they be contented to see their language relegated? Adoke seemingly agreed that it is nearly impossible to have the constitution written in an indigenous language.

A proper dialogue between the people and the leaders is relevant in creating the people’s constitution. Adoke raised more questions in his speech.

While he referred to the efforts by Jonathan’s administration as well as the seventh, eighth and ninth national assemblies, as pockets of successes in amending some parts of the constitution to give a sense of belonging to minority groups, he noted that the first to the fourth alteration to the constitution showed that with the requisite political will, the elected representatives can help in drafting the people’s constitution.

The main conundrum is in the process of enacting a people’s constitution. The eminent lawyer asked some provocative questions such as: “Will the mere convoking of a sovereign national conference to discuss all the contending issues in the federation suffice? What should be the role of the National Assembly in the constitution-making process? Do we still need to convoke a Sovereign National Conference with an elected National Assembly in place?”

“Closely related to this issue,” he continued, “is the question as to whether a constitution made by the National Assembly needs to be subjected

to a referendum to ascertain that it emanates from the people? Furthermore, having come together to make the people’s constitution, should the constitution contain provisions for dealing with the separatist agitations of the people who may no longer wish to be part of the federation? These are pertinent questions that Nigerians must answer in our quest to evolve a people’s constitution.”

In areas of governance, Adoke proposed the enthronement of good governance in the polity.

He noted that separatist agitations, protests for regional resource control and political marginalisation are products of bad governance. He also listed the low standard of education, poverty and its attendants as contributors to the increased insecurity in the country.

“The Nigerian Constitution does provide some kind of blueprint for good governance that seeks to address some of these concerns in the Fundamental Objectives and Directive Principles of State Policy in Chapter 2. It is however limited by its non-justiciability.”

He argued that the people’s constitution must factor in this clause while citing examples from South Africa and Ghana that Nigeria can learn from.

A critical point raised by Adoke is the leadership recruitment process. Political leadership is arguably the most perturbing issue confronting most African countries, specifically Nigeria. The distrust in the electoral process is an attributing factor to the growing sense of disunity in the country. For Adoke, the specific issues that need to be addressed in this regard by the people’s constitution are the elections and the law governing them.

While he sees the people’s constitution as a way out, he doubts if it will be a lasting panacea to Nigeria’s numerous challenges.

Rather, he proposed a combination of a constitution that works for the people — able to accommodate all the competing interests and diversities — and good governance on the part of the political leadership.

However, Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State opposed the idea, describing the clamour for a new constitution as unrealistic because there will always be issues with foundational constitutions and it is not peculiar to Nigeria. Like Buhari, he believes that the unity of the country is paramount.

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imoke

Ayade

Duke, Imoke, Ayade’s Imminent Showdown in Cross River With the recent defection of Governor Ben Ayade of Cross River State from the Peoples Democratic Party to the All Progressives Congress, and the realignment of forces between former governors Donald Duke and Liyel Imoke within the PDP, Chuks Okocha writes that the 2023 general election will no longer be an easy right for any political party in the state

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he drama by the seven national deputies of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) who resigned last Tuesday could best be described as the height of an attempt by some individuals to hijack and distract the leadership of the party. It also showed the resilience by the main stakeholders to keep the party united and afloat.

The members of the Board of Trustee (BoT), National Executive Committee (NEC), and the governors elected on the platform of the party, all rallied round to state in clear terms that the party’s National Chairman, Prince Uche Secondus cannot be bullied around, except he decides to step down on his own volition.

Also, the party came out to explain that the deputies operated or acted outside the PDP constitution as they knew what was in the party’s constitution before they contested for the offices they occupied.

By the party constitution, the deputies are nothing but spare tyres, who apart from being members of NEC, have no visible functions in the PDP constitution.

It was also worrisome that the deputies who were elected since 2017, only woke up four months to the end of their tenure to realise that they were marginalised.

The main opposition party has also clarified that they are not even members of the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party The dramatised resignation was also viewed as selfish, as one of the deputies argued that they were treated as nobody.

Asked to clarify his position, the officer said, “The most annoying part is that during Christmas and Sallah festivities, the NWC would visit our governors. They would collect money and other items but I can tell you that they don’t share anything with the deputies.

To him, we are just a necessary evil to be

tolerated but never to be catered for. We all have our constituencies and our followers but from the way we are being treated, it appears they see us as nothing but appendages forced on them by the party’s constitution.”

It also appeared that the deputies didn’t even read the PDP constitution to know their duties.

PDP’s National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Kola Ologbondiyan in an interview with THISDAY, had stated the constitutional duties of the NWC clearly, and the deputies are not even members of the NWC as they claimed.

Meanwhile, a member of the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the PDP, Mr. Mark Jacob who was the Kaduna State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, has argued that Secondus cannot be bullied out of office, except he chooses to resign.

He also said that there are laid-down constitutional provisions to remove a national chairman.

Speaking on ARISE NEWS Channel, Jacob listed the conditions precedent for the removal of a national chairman.

The PDP NEC member said that “the conditions for the emoval of the national chairman that is duly elected is stated in the constitution, except when the national chairman in question decided to resign on his own volition. He cannot be bullied out of office”.

Jacob noted that any NEC member, who has any grievance against any NWC member must bring it to the NEC for attention, adding that, “in this case of the deputies that resigned, they never complained or brought any issue to the NEC for any attention or for it to be addressed.”

Jacob also stated that the deputies are not members of the NWC of the party.

He described the resignation of the deputies as highest display of selfish and personal interest.

“They have been in that position since

their election in 2017, what made them to hurriedly resign now,” he queried.

Reacting to the resignation, the NWC said that it had reviewed the state of the party, with a view to creating an atmosphere that would engender stability within the party.

The NWC also disclosed that it had already activated the internal conflict resolution mechanism of the party to ensure amicable resolution of all issues. It urged all members of the party to remain calm while assuring that the party remains stable, working with the majority of Nigerians to end the inept administration of the All Progressives Congress (APC), come 2023. It was for this reason that the NWC commenced a last- minute rapprochement to convince the deputies to reconsider their resignation.

At a meeting, Secondus urged the deputies to rethink their move as it would be better to conclude the race they started as a team in 2017 when their tenure will end by November 2021 Also, the former governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Seriake Dickson said that the party cannot stand the risk of a caretaker committee in the face of the 2023 general election. Dickson, representing Bayelsa West senatorial zone, was also Chairman of the PDP Reconciliation Committee from 2013 to 2020 and Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum.

“We have observed for sometime the growing tension, recriminations and outright attack on the National Chairman and members of the National Working Committee by some leaders of the party. One has refrained from making statements because we believe that the party has internal mechanisms and levels of leadership that will handle it and I was in fact, aware that BoT members, governors and other elders, reconciliation committee, collectively and individually, have been making efforts to resolve some of these disputes and challenges affecting the stability

of the party.

“As we are all aware, some officers of our party, resigned yesterday and we should thank them for their services but if their resignation is aimed at causing crisis in the party then we should all condemn it and those behind it.

“By the party’s constitution the appropriate authority, the NWC is empowered to make replacements. I, therefore, call on the National Chairman and other members of the NWC in accordance with the constitution of the party to immediately make appropriate consultations from the states and zones from which these officers have resigned and forthwith, make those replacements subject to ratification by the NEC. “An emergency NEC meeting should be convened which should take appropriate decisions to stabilize the party. And if there is any member of the working committee who wants to resign, such a person should consider the overall interest of the party and have a rethink. If however, any NWC members goes ahead to resign, the resignation should be accepted and consultations be made by the Chairman and NWC to fill those positions as temporary vacancies subject to ratification.

“The National Chairman and NWC members should utilise their powers under the constitution to discipline erring members involved in the nefarious plot to destroy the party. PDP is bigger than any individual and should no longer tolerate people with inordinate ambitions to destroy the party which belongs to all Nigerians.”

Dickson noted that the party’s window of opportunity to take over power in 2023 is fast receding as a result of these self-inflicted challenges.

PDP’s success in its effort to regain power in 2023 will depend on how it handles these self-inflicted challenges.

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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 ˾ AUGUST 22, 2021

CICERO/ISSUE

Okorocha Hunted By His Past Indulgence Considering his perceived recklessness in acquiring public properties while serving as Governor of Imo State, Senator Rochas Okorocha has been nailed as he forfeits all he had illegally acquired, Amby Uneze writes

Okorocha

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istory is the best teacher to those who want to learn from it. But as human beings continue to lust for fame and prosperity, most times, they tend to forget what history teaches. That is the case of the former Imo State governor, Senator Rochas Okorocha, who was governor from 2011 to 2019.

Perhaps, Okorocha did not believe that the state he allegedly ran as a private estate for eight years could in less than two years of his exit tackle him to the point that he could be forced to vomit some of the illegally acquired wealth that allegedly belonged to the state.

The state had asked the former governor to explain to the people how he allegedly converted certain properties that belonged to the state to his.

Conspicuously, when he held sway in the state, he had the knack to disrespect judicial pronouncements, and had the penchant to run the state as a family concern. He allegedly preoccupied himself with the acquisition of state’s land illegally as well as properties, even with state resources.

By the time he was through with his acquisition of sprawling and massive estates in all the nooks and crannies of the state, he wasn’t done yet. Is it the Eastern Palm University at his village, Okpoko, in Ideato South Local Government Area (which the government has renamed KO Mbadiwe University, or his Royal Palm Hotels and Apartment in Owerri which he ascribed to his wife, Nkechi, or the former Imo Broadcasting Corporation (IBC) staff quarters at Orji, that he turned to his private Rochas Foundation College, or the massive land he converted to build his private mansion at Spibat?

The list is endless.

Again, Okorocha’s conversion of the new Owerri area originally mapped out for the relocation of Imo New Government House which he gave out to family members and cronies is another issue of concern to the government and people of the state. It is indeed not an understatement for someone to say that Okorocha and family members own half of the properties in Owerri capital city. Then one can ask: Did all these properties belong to him and his family members before he assumed office in 2011? And the answer is in the negative.

Granted that the period of his reign as governor experienced the opening up of the state astronomically, it is also believed that the major reason for opening up the state was to enable him to acquire more estates and properties in those virgin areas. No wonder, Okorocha publicly claimed that he was richer than the state. That assumption actually is not contestable considering the level of alleged wealth he allegedly amassed using his office as the governor.

Based on the above scenario, subsequent governments after him believed that recovering some of the properties he illegally acquired while serving the state as governor should be a task that must be accomplished.

This had prompted his immediate successor, Hon. Emeka Ihedioha, to set up a Judicial Panel of inquiry into land matters and related issues.

The panel headed by Justice Ijeoma Ogugua was set up to investigate wrong acquisition of lands and review lands taken over by the previous administration without due process.

Ironically, the panel drew its powers from the state Judiciary Panel of Enquires Law enacted under the administration of Okorocha. To do its job efficiently, the panel invited memoranda from the general public - interest groups and persons.

All that Governor Hope Uzodimma did was to allow the panel to continue with its enquiry for the general good of Imo people, having seen its potency, which conformed to the extant laws of the land.

The panel completed its sittings and came up with a 74-page report with recommendations to the state government. The Imo State Executive Council deliberated on the report and came up with a White Paper, which was gazetted and it became a supplemental legislation, having the full backing of the law.

It was based on this that the state government sealed the premises of the Royal Palm Estate as recommended by the Judicial Panel of Inquiry, having been built on an area specified as a green verge.

Before the release of the government White Paper, Okorocha went to court seeking an injunction to stop the state government from sealing or taking over the properties recommended by the panel. On that basis also, the state government filed a suit also seeking the permanent

forfeiture of the over 500 properties that allegedly belonged to the state government.

On Monday, August 9, Justice Fred Njemanze of an Owerri High Court sitting as a vacation judge, ordered the final and absolute forfeiture of the Royal Palm Springs, the former Easter Palm University, Rochas Foundation College at Orji and all properties contained in pages 226 to 272 of the state government White Paper on recovery of lands and properties belonging to the state, which were over 500 in number.

In his ruling, the judge held that Okorocha failed to give concrete and verifiable reasons why a final and absolute forfeiture order should not be given in favour of the state. He also described his defence as “a surplusage”, a term in law which means a useless statement completely irrelevant to a matter.

Okorocha had filed a preliminary objection to stop the final forfeiture, citing forceful eviction and that the suit by the state government was not properly instituted. However, Justice Njemanze held that the suit filed by state government was not only properly filed but was also timely, as the white paper is a legal binding document.

The judge concluded that there is no reason before it to justify why the forfeiture should not be made absolute and final.

“To this end, every property on pages 226 to 272 of the white paper has been forfeited to the Imo State Government and they can do with it whatever they deem fit”.

As for those who had made purchase on such properties, the court said they are at liberty to approach the court to prove their titles; however the properties as at today have been returned to the Imo State Government.

Justice Njemanze had on February 26, 2021 given an interim order of forfeiture, urging Okorocha to approach the court to show cause as to why a final and absolute order of forfeiture should not be given over the properties following an application brought by Mr. Louis Alozie, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), on behalf of the state government.

Part of the properties to be forfeited include: “Eastern Palm University, Ogboko; Royal Spring Palm Hotels and Apartments; IBC staff quarters said to have been illegally acquired for the

purpose of Rochas Foundation College; Owerri magistrate quarters, Orlu road/co-operative office/Girls Guide allegedly converted to private use housing Market Square Supermarket; Kilimanjaro eatery; public building plot B/2 Otamiri South Extension Layout given to the Ministry of Women Affairs for establishing a skills acquisition centre for women, allegedly acquired for the benefit of Nneoma Nkechi Okorocha’s all-in stall, Aba road”.

Others include: “Plot P5, Naze residential layout, initially part of Primary School Management Board but now annexed to All-In Stall, Aba Road, belonging to Nkechi Okorocha, and all the properties contained from pages 226 to 272 of the government white paper on the recommendation of the judicial commission of inquiry into land administration in Imo State from June 2006 to May 2019”.

Speaking on the court judgment, the Imo State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Hon. Declan Emelumba, had described the ruling as a victory for Imo people because the properties belong to them.

“What happened was that when the judicial panel of inquiry was set up by the previous administration, it had cogent reasons for that.

Moreover, the panel was populated by prominent jurists, which is a legal procedure anywhere recognised by law.

“First of all, Okorocha went to court to stop that panel and failed and the panel concluded their work, sent the report to the governor and the governor followed all legal procedures, brought the report to the Exco and after exhaustive deliberation, the government issued a white paper.

“By the time a white paper is issue based on the report of that well constituted panel of inquiry, it is like a court pronouncement; so, the next thing is to implement the findings, which was what led the government to recover the former Eastern Palm University and then sealed the Spring Palm Estate owned by the wife.

“To fulfill all righteousness, even when we knew that the government was legally right in sealing the estate and recovering the properties, the government now went to court to get an order and the court gave an interim order authorising the government to seal the properties. The court invited him (Okorocha) to produce evidence why that interim order could not be converted into a final and absolute order and his lawyer made his submission which the court disproved and finally gave a ruling in favour of Imo State government to recover all the stolen property numbering up to 500. By the ruling, it is now a further confirmation that the government is following due process in this action”, Emelumba, had stated.

Reacting, the lead counsel to the respondents, Oba Maduabuchi, also a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), described the judgment as “perfidy of justice”, noting, that: “I’m baffled at the court. On Friday, a text message came from the judge that he would deliver his ruling on Monday or Tuesday. So because of the sit-athome order by IPOB we agreed for Tuesday. I was shocked when my colleague rushed into the room and told me that they have delivered a ruling, not just ruling but a judgment.

“We had earlier on Tuesday argued the objections I raised on the processes filled by the state government; the judge said he reserved his ruling; when ruling is reserved, it means that no particular date is fixed but when it’s ready, parties are informed,” Maduabuchi said.

According to him, “we are definitely going to appeal the judgment, even a primary school pupil knows that the judgment can’t stand.”

However, it was an expected verdict by the court considering the level of greed perpetuated

by Okorocha. The people of the state had before now, mandated the present government to ensure that all properties illegally acquired by Okorocha were recovered.

That was why the government took it as a priority and approached a court of competent jurisdiction for the recovery.

T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R ˾ AUGUST 22, 2021

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CICERO/REPORT

Akeredolu’s Overtures and Future of Ondo PDP James Sowole writes on the likely implications of the Supreme Court’s judgment on the October 10, 2020 gubernatorial election in Ondo State on the Peoples Democratic Party in the state

Akeredolu

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Right from the beginning of the preparation for the October 10, 2020 governorship election that returned the Ondo State Governor, Mr. Oluwarotimi Akeredolu (SAN), for a second term in office, the governor, noted for his bluntness and fearlessness, never looked down on his major opponent, Mr. Eyitayo Jegede of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who is equally a SAN. At every available opportunity, Akeredolu always spoke glowingly of his learned colleague, even during the campaigns, which the leaders of his All Progressives Congress (APC) and their supporters, were not pleased with.

For reasons not expressed at any forum, Akeredolu, in relating with Jegede, was never carried away even after he was declared winner of the election.

After the three-man Election Petition Tribunal dismissed the petition of Jegede, the governor had maintained his humility in victory, inviting his main challenger to join his hands in moving the state forward. Akeredolu preached the same message after the Court of Appeal sitting in Akure, upheld the decision of the Election Petition Tribunal.

Some people, who thought that Akeredolu would change his position towards his learned colleague after the Supreme Court affirmed the decision of the Court of Appeal, were proved wrong as the governor again extended an olive branch to Jegede.

But without any response to the invitation from his friend, Jegede in a statement he personally signed, congratulated Akeredolu on the split 4- 3 Supreme Court judgment, that finally dismissed his (Jegede) petition.

Jegede

While saying that apex court’s ruling won’t deter him from respecting the judiciary, Jegede thanked the PDP, the people of Ondo State and his counsel for a good fight.

He said, “Now that we have explored the grievance procedure permitted by the constitution and the law, it is time to give glory to God. “We thank specially our legal team, under the leadership of Dr. Onyechi Ikpeazu (SAN), for their commitment, industry and dedication to our cause. Over and above all, we thank them for their sacrifice.

“We are thankful to the people of Ondo State for their steadfastness; we were in this for service and for the collective interest of the majority of our people.

“The outcome of today’s judgment should not deter good and well-meaning individuals from aspiring for leadership in our state and in our country. For all our people who have stood strong, we salute you.

“We thank the national and state leadership, and the generality of the members of PDP for providing us with great support. For our governors who provided the required leadership and kept faith with our aspiration, gratitude; history will judge you right.

“With this outcome, our respect and reverence for the judiciary and our justices of the supreme court has not diminished.”

However, that Jegede did not accept the Akeredolu’s offer was expressed by the PDP in a statement signed by its Publicity Secretary, Mr. Ikantu Peretei, describing the offer as laughable.

The PDP asked the governor to leave the party and its candidate out of the current administration in the state.

Peretei said: “Our party and its candi-

date cannot be part of a government that has thrown out many students of tertiary institutions in the state because their parents can no longer pay the astronomical school fees charged by the Akeredolu government.

“Our party and its candidate cannot be part of government that has crippled the health care system in the state. We cannot be part of a government that has withdrawn free shuttle buses for school children.

“It is unthinkable that Akeredolu can ask our candidate to join a government that has pauperised civil servants in the state through the payments of 30 per cent salaries that are not even regular.

Civil servants now have to take loans to be able to pay house rents or send their children to school.

“The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology, Okitipupa chapter has just embarked on an indefinite strike. What has been the government’s response to all these myriad of problems?

“It is important to stress that, before the October 2020 election, Eyitayo Jegede, and the PDP drew up a well- articulated manifesto on education, healthcare delivery, agriculture, industrialisation, welfare of civil servants and much more in contradistinction to what is obtainable now in the state. To this extent, there is no meeting point between what was designed by the PDP and Akeredeolu’s score card.

“Our party wishes to advise Akeredolu to hannel his energies to improving the welfare of Ondo citizens instead of grandstanding and clicking of wine glasses over the Supreme Court judgment.”

Though, the judgment had come

to stay, discussions have started on the implication of the development to stakeholders and the PDP as it concerns the candidate himself and members of the party.

While speaking with THISDAY, the state chairman of the PDP, Hon. Fatai Adams, said the party was moving forward and had appealed to members that the future was bright for the party, both in the state and at the national level.

THISDAY however, learnt that a strategic stakeholders meeting, was held to review the situation. It was gathered that at the meeting attended by Jegede himself, he thanked leaders and members for standing firm while the litigation lasted.

Jegede was also said to have told the leaders and members of the party that with their commitment and steadfastness, PDP remains formidable because of its organisational structure and respect for rules However, some people were of the belief that the loss of the governorship election would affect the party adversely in the area of funding. Some people said many members may defect to the ruling party in due course.

According to them, some party members may capitalise on the Akeredolu’s overture to defect.

The state chairmanship candidate of the PDP, Hon. Denis Niyi-Longe, had few days to the apex court’s judgment, defected to the APC, after losing the state chairmanship position to Hon. Fatai Adams.

The defector, who said he has no confidence in the suit that terminated at the Supreme Court, said PDP had no future in the state.

Also, a major issue being discussed is the political future of the PDP’s candidate, Jegede, who was defeated twice consecutively by Akeredolu.

When the PDP fielded Jegede in 2016, a major argument against him, was that it was not the turn of the Ondo Central to produce the governor but Ondo South, since Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, who is from the Ondo Central had just completed two terms of four years each.

The story was the same when PDP again sponsored Jegede in 2020. In actual fact, Akeredolu at one of his campaign rallies, had told his learned colleague to wait for another 12 years before he could aspire to become the governor of the state.

The governor had premised his argument on the expectation that he would spend his second term from 2021 to 2024, and after which the Ondo South, would produce the governor for eight years, before it could be the turn of Ondo Central, where Jegede hails from.

A PDP chieftain, who spoke in confidence with THISDAY, said nobody would consider sponsoring governorship candidate from Ondo Central no matter the pedigree of such candidate.

He said, “We tried it in 2016 despite several controversies, we failed. We did the same thing in 2020, we all saw what happened and now that the court, has ruled, we must not try it again now that everybody is now looking up to Ondo South, to produce the next governor after Akeredolu.”

For the ruling APC, it is not yet a complete dancing party, as controversies are brewing over the congresses being conducted in view of the Supreme Court’s decision on the party’s national leadership.

T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R ˾ AUGUST 22, 2021

GAVEL

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Editor: Ejiofor Alike SMS: 08066066268 email:ejiofor.alike@thisdaylive.com

be an interested party here? Do they really know what is really going on?” he reportedly queried.

Gbillah, however, countered Wase on the grounds that Nigeria had been pursuing a policy of inclusiveness for its citizens in the Diaspora, an aim he said would easily be defeated if the same category of Nigerians could not be allowed to speak on raging matters of national concern.

While the rejection generated widespread condemnation and criticisms, the Speaker, Gbajabiamila, at the plenary few days later accepted the petition, which was presented again by Gbillah.

7ZLWWHU %DQ 5HSRUW According to House rules, the Deputy Speaker shall be the Chairman of the Committee of the Whole. Therefore Wase chairs the consideration and possible passage of reports on all legislations and petitions.

In July, the House considered the report of the Committees on Information, National Orientation, Ethics and Values; Telecommunications; Information and Technology; Justice; and National Security and Intelligence that investigated the federal government’s suspension of Twitter operations in Nigeria.

While Chairman of the joint committee, Hon. Olusegun Odebunmi, was presenting the report, Wase who presided over the session interjected, suggesting that the report should be stepped down as no member of the committee signed the report.

He also opposed the report because the Chairman of the Committee on National Security and Intelligence, Sha’aban Sharada (APC, Kano), was not involved in the investigation.

Odebunmi, however, said the original copy signed by members was not the one copied to members.

The Deputy Speaker was then provided a copy of the signed version, but he asked if the panel engaged the National Security Adviser, Maj. Gen. Babagana Monguno (rtd), on the matter. He noted that the committee did not explore all the avenues before coming back to the Áoor.

However, the Speaker, Gbajabiamila, who sat on the Áoor as a member, intervened before the report could be considered.

Wase

Wase’s Controversial Plenary Sessions

(OHFWURQLF 7UDQVPLVVLRQ RI (OHFWLRQ Results Wase’s ruling during the consideration of clause 52 in the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill in July had also led to altercations among the lawmakers. The clause-by-clause consideration was almost enjoying smooth sailing in the House until they got to Section 52(2) of the proposed legislation, which gives discretion to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to adopt electronic voting or any other method of voting in any election it conducts as it may deem Àt.

The Deputy Minority Leader, Hon. Toby Okechukwu, however, moved a diͿerent motion insisting that voting, accreditation and transmission of results shall be done electronically.

Wase, who presided over the session, had put the motion moved by Okechukwu to vote, but while the ‘Ayes’ had it, Wase ruled in favour of the ‘Nays’.

It was at this point that the hallow chamber He also tweeted stating that not even the Speaker, Gbajabiamila or his Deputy became rowdy and the lawmakers who voted in favour of electronic transmission of results Wase can suppress his voice. left their seats and moved towards Wase’s 5HMHFWLRQ RI 3HWLWLRQ E\ WKH 7LY seat to protest against the injustice.

This forced the House to adjourn after Leaders Few months later, precisely in March the stalemate. At the resumption of the 2021, Wase was enmeshed in another consideration of the clauses the next day, controversy, when he prevented Hon. Wase assured the lawmakers that Section Mark Gbillah (PDP, Benue) from pre- 52 would be revisited at the end of the consenting a petition against the federal sideration. However, after the consideration government on an alleged taking over of other clauses in the bill, Wase attempted to revert to plenary to report progress, but of their lands by herdsmen.

The petition Àled by Mzough U Tiv the minority leader, Hon. Ndudi Elumelu Amerika (MUTA) on insecurity in Benue, raised a point of order that Section 52 should Nasarawa, and Taraba states had accused be decided.

In response, Wase said clause 52 was the federal government of nonchalance towards the injustice done to those who considered the previous day hence, the deciwere displaced as a result of herdsmen’s sion can only be changed with a substantive motion for ‘rescission’. In protest, Elumelu activities.

But Wase, in rejecting the petition, and other minority lawmakers walked out argued that Nigerians abroad had no of the chambers.

Indeed, Wase has a reputation for imposrights to Àle a petition on the crisis, saying it would be understandable if the petition ing his will on both the minority and the majority and this has disrupted legislative came from those in the country.

“If they are in America, could they business on several occasions.

Udora Orizu reviews some of the plenary sessions presided over by the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Idris Wase, which led to altercations among the lawmakers

T

he Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Idris Wase (APC Plateau) is often in the news for controversies occasioned by his apparent disregard for the dissenting voices during bills, motions, reports’ considerations and other legislative activities at any plenary session he presides over.

Whether he’s presiding over the Committee of the Whole, or plenary in the absence of the Speaker, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, the Deputy Speaker has a reputation for imposing his will on the lawmakers.

He is known to have denied the minority and some of the majority lawmakers, as the case maybe, their say. His infamous rulings have sometimes led to rowdy plenary sessions and walkouts by some members of the opposition and ruling parties. )DFH R; ZLWK +RQ 6KLQD 3HOOHU On October 20 last year, Hon. Shina Peller (APC Oyo) attempted to raise a point of order to discuss the #EndSARS protest that was

raging across the country. Wase, who was presiding over the plenary session refused to recognise Peller.

Peller had said, “As a member of the House voted for by the people of Iseyin/ Itesiwaju/Iwajowa/Kajola Federal Constituency, I deserve to be listened to by the House and I have a right to speak here. I have been raising my hand from the beginning of this session to this time; so, you need to allow me speak here.”

Hinging his decision on House rules, Wase argued that it only permits two motions of urgent national importance daily, disclosing that Peller’s was an attempt at a third one.

The response however angered Peller who threatened to speak to the media if he’s not allowed to raise his point of order. He eventually walked out when his request was not granted.

Speaking on the issue later, Peller said contrary to the explanation by Wase, the deputy speaker was not fair to him as he denied his constituents the opportunity to speak on issues that aͿects them.

THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER AUGUST 22, 2021

76

ENGAGEMENTS

with ChidiAmuta e-mail:chidi.amuta@gmail.com

A Message from Kabul Chidi Amuta

W

henagreatarmyretreatsin stampede, a cascade of misfortunes often follow.

War objectives come to be questioned just as unintended casualties could tumble in. National pride and esteem take a beating and the politics that powers wars assumes partisan belligerence.

This is perhaps one summation of what has turned out to be a bad week for the Joe Biden presidency. In its handling of the final leg of US troops withdrawal from Afghanistan, the administration has threatened the president’s reputation as a foreign policy major.

The hastily executed troops withdrawal was, perhaps unknown to the CIA and otherWestern intelligence estimators, literally being followed in tandem by Taliban fighters in hot pursuit.

While the Afghan government thought it could negotiate an accord with theTaliban in Qatar,Taliban field commanders were putting finishing touches to their battle plans to overwhelm Afghanistan’s security forces. The Taliban overran Kabul quickly and by last weekend, my academic economist friend, Ashraf Ghani, was on an unscheduled quick flight out of Kabul. He landed in Dubai. A man who had pontificated profusely on how to fix failed states was himself fleeing from one that he had presided over for years. By last Sunday evening, a collection of unwashedTaliban fighters strolled into the marbled corridors of the presidential palace. One of them temporarily posed for photos seated behind Mr. Ghani’s former presidential desk. Soon enough, some of the Taliban fighters were treating themselves to dinnerintheornatecomfortofthepresidentialabode.

The ongoing drama in Kabul is not exactly intended. The last leg of the US troop withdrawal from Afghanistan has degenerated into a riotous stampede now localized at Kabul’s Hamid Karzai airport.That is the only patch of Afghan territory now occupied by the all conquering American military behemoth. In exactly 11 days, the entire Afghan securityforceofover300,000officersandmen,trained and equipped by the best military force in the world, collapsed under the onslaught of a Taliban force of rural fighters and raggedy militia. For America, this looks somehow like Saigon in April, 1975.

For American, the cost of the Afghanistan outcome is considerably huge: over one trillion dollars of American tax money down a sink hole, 2,400 dead Americans,andover20,000injuredcombatantsunder four presidents (two Republican and two Democrat).

There is of course the mounting reputational tragedy of an untidy retreat.

Yet, perhaps the United States can beat its chest that its core war objective was largely achieved.

Since after 9/11, no successful terrorist operation against the US has emanated from Afghanistan. By and large also, Afghanistan’s reputation as a terror laboratory has been dulled. But in spite of its massive show of force and global PR operation, America did not defeat the global fear of the Taliban. Fear of the archaic and barbaric traits of the classic Taliban remain strong even after twenty years in the cold.

That fear has fired the current global trepidation about aTaliban resurgence. Many ordinary Afghans do not want to relive the nightmare of Taliban rule and so are trooping out in droves to destinations they hardly know, preferring a refugee status in alien lands rather than being routinely flogged, hanged, or jailed for the freedoms that the rest of humanity take for granted.

Though hardly a week into their return, the new Taliban is swearing to a new image, a new set of doctrines and new values.They have so far indicated thatTaliban 2.0 will respect the rights of women, will promote women’s education, respect freedom of speech and allow rights within the parameters of Sharia law and civic code. The precise details are yet unclear but one commitment that seems like an article of faith and a pillar of future survival is the undertaking by theTaliban hierarchy that their new Afghan state will not promote global terrorism or allow Afghan territory to serve as a launch pad for terrorist exploits against the West.

Observers and analysts remain skeptical on these commitments, regarding them as mere gimmicks to assure a Taliban return and entrenchment in power. In the present situation, however, America’s sovereign obligations in Afghanistan are now limited in scope and time. In terms of scope, it is a retreat mission with Kabul airport and its approaches as its immediate theatre. Its objectives are limited to the

Ghani safe evacuation of all remaining US nationals left in the country. Secondly, it aims at assisting in the evacuation of citizens of all allied countries. Thirdly, it aims to extract all Afghan nationals- interpreters, informants and others- who assisted the US mission over the last twenty years. In terms of time frame, President Biden has set his commanders a deadline of end of August or a bit longer.

The end of US mission in Afghanistan is important to the rest of the world for what it means for the globalfightagainstIslamicfundamentalistextremism and terrorism. It was necessitated by the the 9/11 attack on major US iconic structures. Those who are questioning the success of America’s mission in Afghanistan should look beyond matters of America’s ego. The mission neutralized Al Queda, took out Osama Bin Ladin and exterminated nearly all his major lieutenants. It literally liquidated Al Queada as a holding franchise of global terror. For twenty years, it confined the Taliban to fringe rural areas.

There is a whole crisis of interpretations in discourse on the Afghanistan outcome.The confusion is mostly in terms of a misconception of America’s war objectives in Afghanistan. America did not go to Afghanisatan on a nation building mission. It has never fared well as a nation building power. It does verywellasaforceofdecisiveoutcomesincampaigns of limited duration in pursuit of its national interests. It is better at such brief encounters than in long drawn out campaigns against resilient nationalist forces.

TheTaliban did not and cannot defeat America in any direct sense. No was the United States at war with a subsisting Afghan sovereign state. Instead, the US chased theTaliban out of power for 20 years. It was a US backed Afghan government that caved in under a resurgentTaliban. However, the solidarity of Afghans as a people, their recourse to an ancient faith and their national solidarity embodied in the resilience of the Taliban is what seems to have triumphed. It is quite likely that once the United States proceeded with plans to leave, the Afghan security forces literally melted away just as the puppet government that Americahadcobbledtogethercavedinunderweight of its own corruption and incompetence.

The return of Afghanistan into the hands of the TalibanismajorlytheresultofthefailureofthegovernmentinKabul.Thecentralgovernmentwashopelessly corrupt. Government officials either cornered major government contracts or made deals with theTaliban whilepretendingtobeopposedtothem.The300,000 strong Afghanistan Defence and Security Force had over time become very compromised. They often leaked operational plans to the enemy or sold off armaments and equipment to the enemy through a thriving black market.The government on its part was not ready to push decisively to fight or defeat the enemy. They were more intent on prolonging the US mission and the flow of cash. They were also enjoying the increasing power play among international powers with their conflicting interests in

Afghanistan. Among the US, Iran, China and Russia there are conflicting interests and schemes which Afghan politicians mined to personal advantage.

The latter three are basking in the apparent failure of the US Afghanistan mission.

On its part, the Taliban funded the protracted insurgency from the proceeds of a long standing opium trade in rural Afghanistan. While presenting as ascetic Muslim zealots, theTaliban leadership was essentially a collection of ethnic warlords and opium gangsters. The Taliban was a stronger rallying force rooted in faith and fear. But fear of the return of Taliban fundamentalist extremism and brutality was not enough to buy the government enough support to survive in power once the US military force departed. Of course, the point has variously been made that fancy armaments and torrents of cash are not enough to defeat the will of a people who are steeped in the solidarity of faith and nationalism.

For us in Nigeria, the return of theTaliban to power is cause for concern. Our major terrorist nightmare remains Boko Haram. In addition to deriving original inspiration from the Taliban, Boko Haram shares traits with classical Taliban. Like the Taliban, Boko Haram subscribes to a medieval version of Islam which abhors western educationand modernization.

They have the same attitude to the status of women, women’s education and basic freedoms.They prefer men with scraggy beards without grooming and has no room for freedom of expression, respect for the media and other manifestations of the open society. Jihad is its driving force. Divine ordained violent retribution against infidels is its fuel while terrorist violence remains its principal vehicle. Most importantly, there is a disturbing operational similarity between Boko Haram and the Taliban. They concentrate on the ungoverned spaces in the rural areas where they recruit and convert foot soldiers to make incursions into the urban centres. They are armed with the element of surprise in their invasion of urban centres and government targets.

In Nigeria, Boko Haram has sustained a terrorist insurgency for over a decade. It has killed, maimed, burnt down places of worship and targeted public institutions. It has serially abducted school girls and forcedstatestoclosedownschoolsasithasadeclared mission to fight against western education.The fear of Boko Haram violence coupled with violence associated with armed herdsmen and the utterances of jihadist politicians has in recent times increased the air of suspicion among Nigerian Christians.There is an unfounded but widespread belief among Nigerian Christians that the government of President Buhari may have an Islamization agenda for the country.

For the avoidance of doubt, Taliban- type fundamentalist Islam has become the laboratory of most terroristactivitiesintheworld,poweringorganizations as diverse as Al Queda in Pakistan and Afghanistan, Al Shabaab in Somalia and the horn of Africa, Boko Haram in Nigeria, ISWAP in the Sahel, ISIS in Iraq,

Syria and parts of Turkey. Even if Taliban 2.0 insists that it is repentant and determined to turn a new leaf, jihadist movements inspired by the original Taliban in places haunted by poverty and ignorance are not about to abandon violence and terrorism as political tools.

At inception, prominent Nigerian public and political figures were supporters and promoters of Boko Haram’s archaic version of Islam and its implicit terrorism. In his heydays as a preacher and imam, President Buhari’s Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Sheikh Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami, was cited as openly expressing great admiration for Osama Bin Ladin and terrorists in general. He ended with a fervent prayer: ”Oh God, give victory to the Taliban and to Al Queda…”In the collapse of the US backed government in Kabul and the triumphant return of the Taliban to power in Afghanistan, the prayer of Mr. Pantami and his fellow Nigerian zealots would seem to have been answered.

By most sensible intelligence estimates, there is a clear and present danger that Boko Haram and its affiliate terror squads have their eyes trained on Abuja. They have all shown a common interest in disrupting the business of the government in Abuja if only to demonstrate their capacity to challenge the prevailing sovereignty. There are very recent indications that Boko Haram is expanding its theatre of operation southwards. From its original base in the NorthEast,BokoHaramactivitieshavespreadtoYobe, Katsina, Zamfara and lately Niger State.The governor of Niger State recently revealed that Boko Haram has taken over control of five local governments in the state and was within two hours of Abuja. The highway between Abuja and Kaduna has become a favourite operational thoroughfare and playground of all manner of bandits and gunmen. Similarly, at the height of the Shiite campaign to free Mr. El-Zakzakky, militants of the sect freely invaded Abuja and quickly turned the central business district of the city into a battle theatre of free exchange of fire with security forces.Taken together, therefore, there is a palpable but latent strategic instability around Abuja.The city is surrounded by both sectarian and criminal armed threats united by a common interest in subversive disruption of the Nigerian state.

Fortheavoidanceofdoubt,notallNigerianMuslims see reason or subscribe to the insane violence and primitive fundamentalism of the Taliban modelled Boko Haram. In terms of inspiration, there are in fact three principal sources of Islamic religious and cultural influence in Nigeria. First is the Saudi Arabia driven Sunni inspired establishment version. Second is the Shiite driven version of El-Zakzakky and his followers inspired from Iran. Among the younger more influential elite, there is a growing subtle cultural influence from the moderate more liberal ultra modern Arab nations of the UAE and Qatar.

This school is powered by a more forward looking cultural orientation that wants to keep the broad outlines of Islamic faith while embracing the best western values of openness, cutting edge technologies, modern living, western education and basic freedom of expression.

Nigeria’s President Muhammadu Buhari has recently tried to project a desirable counter terrorism support agenda for the US and the West post Afghanistan. In a recent Op-Ed in the Financial Times, Mr. Buhari argues that the help Africa now needs from the US and the West to defeat terrorism is not just armaments. Of course Africa needs the technical and intelligence support of the West. But the more urgent need is for investment and development assistance to combat the poverty and unemployment that lie at the root of terrorism in parts of Africa. For the leader of a country that has habored Boko Haram for a decade, Mr. Buhari’s viewpoint merits some attention. ”Though sheer force can blunt terror, its removal can cause the threat to return”. He places the weight of expectation of US and Western support for Africa on infrastructure and investment: “ We will defeat them (terrorists) one highway, one rail link- and one job- at a time.”

The argument that infrastructure development and landscape decoration will eradicate the extremism and fundamentalism that powers terrorism is defective. Instead, it is good governance and grassroots development targeted at the roots of poverty and fundamentalism that is the minimum condition for a sustainable counter terrorism campaign in Africa. Fancy infrastructure that does not address the living conditions and mode of thinking of ordinary people will merely provide attractive targets for future terrorist attacks.

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THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER AUGUST 22, 2021

NEWS Striking Doctors Reject New MoU Proposed By FG

News Editor: Gboyega Akinsanmi E-mail: gboyega.akinsanmi@thisdaylive.com,08152359253

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

The leadership of the National Association Resident Doctors (NARD) has rejected the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) proposed by the federal government to address the issues that led to their ongoing strike.

Speaking to THISDAY last night after a meeting with the federal government’s team held at the Ministry of Labour and Employment in Abuja, the National President of NARD, Dr. Uyilawa Okhuaihesuyi said that the association refused to sign the MoU and has decided to proceed with the case at the Industrial Court.

“We rejected the MoU. We did not sign it because we are being punished for the failures of the government,” he said.

The meeting with the FG team which started on Friday got adjourned to yesterday but failed to persuade the striking doctors to return to work.

When pressed further for the reasons for their action, Okhuaihesuyi said he wouldn’t like to say more because their case was pending at the court.

The federal government yesterday proposed a new MoU with the NARD on the implementation of the demands by the striking resident doctors.

While briefing journalists

in Abuja yesterday on the outcome of the engagement with the leadership of the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), NARD, and other affiliate associations, the Minister of Labour and Employment, Senator Chris Ngige, said the MoU addressed the several complaints by the doctors including; non-payment of the salaries of some house officers on the IPPIS platform, non-payment of medical residency training fund (MRTF) outstanding for 2020 and the current 2021 allocation and non-payment of salaries of some house officers on IPPIS. He said other issues dealt with under the MoU were the payment of arrears of consequential adjustment on National Minimum Wage and abolition of bench fees, delay in the review of hazard allowances.

Other issues addressed are the non-payment of skipping allowance for 2014, 2015, 2016; withdrawal of a circular from the Office of Head of Service; removal of house officers and NYSC doctors from the scheme of service; nonpayment of salaries of doctors and residents on GFMIS and the issue of their migration to IPPIS and non-payment of outstanding COVID-19 allowance for 2020 for some

medical doctors in government clinics and hospitals.

Following the new deal, Ngige said: “The government side has given undertaken that it will be processed in one week. And therefore, the meeting agreed that by next Friday, August 27, residents in institutions would have started

getting their money”.

He said the amount to be paid is about N542, 000 per person.

On the issue of house officers, the Registrar of the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) had explained that as of yesterday, he had about

2,800 house officers on his platform because of the new house officers training scheme.

Ngige explained that MDCN now handles the placement of House Officers and managing them in terms of their remuneration for the one-year internship programme.

He stated that the 114 House Officers which NMA and NARD cited were suspected to be those who had not done their revalidation for the month, adding that the system requires that by the 15th of every month, the doctors must revalidate their stay in the housemanship training programme.

CELEBRTATING PHOTOGRAPHERS . . .

L-R: Guest speaker, Mr Lekan Otufodunrin; Chairperson, Nigeria Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Mrs. Comfort Nwankwo; Guest speaker, Mr. Dayo Adedayo; a former Chairman, Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Lagos Council, Mr Lanre Arogundade; Secretary, NUJ Lagos Council, Mr Tunde Olalere and Head of Department, Photography, Nigeria Institute of Journalism (NIJ), Dr. Ola Boye and Chairman, Photojournalists Association of Nigeria (PJAN) Lagos Chapter, Mr Kola Olasupo during the 2021 World Photography Day Lecture organized by PJAN Lagos, held at IPC, Ogba, Lagos ... yesterday

Buhari, Fayemi, Abiodun Mourn as Tunji Olurin Dies at 76

Deji Elumoye in Abuja and Victor Ogunje in Ado Ekiti

President Muhammadu Buhari, Chairman, Nigerian Governors Forum, Dr. Kayode Fayemi and Ogun State Governor, Mr. Dapo Abiodun yesterday expressed condolences on the death of former Sole Administrator of Ekiti State, Brig-Gen. Adetunji Idowu Olurin (rtd).

In a statement by Babatunde Olurin yesterday, the family said the late former military officer passed on Friday at 76 after a brief illness at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH).

The statement said: “It is with a deep sense of loss but gratitude to Almighty God for a life well lived that we announce the passing of Brigadier General Adetunji

Idowu Olurin (rtd).

“He passed away on the 20th of August 2021 at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital after a brief illness.

“In 27 years of service to the Nigerian Army, Olurin served as the military administrator of Oyo state, the General Officer Commanding the three armoured division and the ECOMOG field commander in Liberia.

“He also served as the sole administrator of Ekiti state and was a governorship candidate in the 2011 Ogun State gubernatorial elections.”

The statement added that burial arrangements would be announced soon.

Olurin, a former Military Governor of the old Oyo State,

served as Sole Administrator of Ekiti State for six months between October 19, 2006 and April 27, 2007 during the state of emergency imposed by the Olusegun Obasanjo administration in the wake of political crisis that engulfed the state at the time.

Olurin, who was born in Ilaro, Ogun State on December 3,1944, also governed Oyo State from 1985-1988. He served as the Field Commander of the ECOMOG Peace keeping Force in Liberia between 1992 and 1993.

Buhari, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, joined family, friends and professional colleagues in mourning the military officer, who served the country meritoriously in his career, extending support

when he was called upon as military governor in Oyo State, and later as sole administrator in Ekiti State.

The president, therefore, commiserated with government and people of Ogun, Ekiti and Oyo states over the demise of Olurin.

He noted Olurin’s efforts in community development, particularly in his state, Ogun, willingly putting his experience and knowledge at the service of various governments.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Yinka Oyebode, Fayemi described Olurin’s death as a great loss to Nigeria, Ogun State, his home state and Ekiti, which he helped administer during the six-month emergency rule.

The governor pointed out that the deceased discharged his duties as the sole administrator of Ekiti State with a great measure of fairness and firmness and left some legacies he would remembered for in the annals of history of the Land of Honour.

Fayemi said although the late Olurin was a soldier, he was a man of the people who was much concerned about their welfare and ever ready to solve problems brought to his attention.

He expressed sadness that Olurin’s demise came just few weeks after the death of a distinguished daughter of Ekiti, Mrs. Abike Sonoiki, who also served during the emergency rule as Secretary to the State Government (SSG).

He prayed God to grant the family and associates of the deceased the fortitude to bear the loss, urging them to be consoled by the legacies of service, selflessness and excellence he left behind.

“On behalf of the government and good people of Ekiti State, I commiserate with the immediate family and associates of our amiable General Olurin. Our prayer is that God will grant the deceased eternal rest and grant the family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.”

On his part, Abiodun expressed shock over the death of Olurin, who he described as a gallant military officer and astute administrator in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Kunle Somorin yesterday.

NYSC Explains How to Lift 100m out of Poverty with Trust Fund

Oghenevwede Ohwovoriole in Abuja

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) justified its proposal to set up a trust fund for all corps members nationwide, arguing that the fund, if eventually established, will help actualise President Muhammadu Buhari’s vision of lifting 100 million Nigerians out of unemployment before the next decade.

NYSC, a scheme established in 1973 to promote national cohesion and integration, disclosed that it had trained over 500,000 corps members in different agro-allied, skill development and vocational

programmes and facilitated N1.184 billion for those who applied in the last decade.

NYSC’s Director Special Duties, Alhaji Musa Abdullahi said this at a session with THISDAY at the weekend, revealed that no fewer corps members had trained and empowered under its Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED).

Explaining its centrality to the fight against poverty and unemployment, Abdullahi said the Director-General of NYSC, Brig.-Gen. Ibrahim Shuaibu had proposed the establishment to a Trust Fund as a strategy to help actualise Buhari’s vision of lifting 100 million out of

poverty cycle.

Despite huge achievements the scheme had recorded under 48 years of its establishment, the NYSC had its diversified its approach from career advisory to entrepreneurship development with the high rate of poverty and unemployment nation.

Of the 25 NYSC secretariats that set up post-camp mini training centres nationwide, for instance, Abdullahi noted that the scheme was recording low patronage perhaps due to lack of training tools or lack of awareness among graduates.

Abdullahi explained the centrality of the ongoing establishment of Skills

Acquisition Centre in all geo-political zones to raising an army of entrepreneurs, who he argued, would deploy their entrepreneurial potential for national development.

He, therefore, noted that it was on this ground that the NYSC had proposed to establish a trust fund to equip corps members with requisite skills they need for value addition and financially empower as they are completing their national services.

When established, according to NYSC’S director, the trust fund will also provide resources for the training and empowerment of corps members, especially on skill

acquisition and entrepreneurship development. It is a strategy to end poverty as the president has envisaged to lift 100 million out of poverty by 2030.

Since its creation in 2012, NYSC’s director listed SAED’s achievements to include the establishment of a full-pledged department that would be saddled with the responsibility of streamlining the skills and entrepreneurial activities of the Corps members.

Under the Department of Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development, Abdullahi disclosed that it had received support from the Access Bank Plc to construct and equip a mega skills acquisition centre for in

Gombe for the North-east states Besides, according to the director, we are building a similar one in Jigawa for the Northwest states and in Nasarawa for the Northcentral states. The construction of the Southwest skill acquisition centre located in Ekiti State is already at completion stage.

Abdullahi disclosed ongoing collaboration with Unity Bank Plc, which according to him, focused on funding business plan development programmes for corps members.

He, also, disclosed successful partnership initiatives with such funding institutions as the Bank of Industry (BOI) and the CBN, which he said, would start-up capital for corps entrepreneurs.

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THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER AUGUST 22, 2021

NEWSXTRA Ex-NBA President Canvasses Restructuring to End Reign of Cabal 6D\V FXUUHQW JRYHUQDQFH VWUXFWXUH QRW VXVWDLQDEOH ([SODLQV ZK\ 1LJHULD FDQ·W HQG $IJKDQLVWDQ ZD\ Gboyega Akinsanmi

Amid lopsided appointments at the federal level and misappropriation of national resources by political elites, a former President of Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), Chief Joseph Daudu (SAN) yesterday warned that the current governance structure “is not sustainable.”

Daudu, a member of the International Council of Jurists, however canvassed restructuring of the country’s governance structure and people’s mind in order to put paid to the reign of cabal, who governed against popular will.

He made these remarks in a three-paragraph response to THISDAY’s inquiry on Nigeria’s descent into socio-economic and political crises yesterday, lamenting the takeover of the national commonwealth by a small group of people.

Expressing grave concern about the future of Nigeria, he

wrote: “The take-over of our national commonwealth by a small group of people - be they friends, persons from the same ethnic group, religion or club is what is called rule by cabal.

“The effect of this state of affairs is that all scarce resources proceeding from the State are appropriated or misappropriated by this small parasitic group.

All they do is milk the national resources of this country dry for the exclusive benefit of this group,” NBA’s former leader said.

Daudu, thus, said all national appointments to strategic positions and allocation of scarce resources “are skewed in favour of the cabal and against the national interest,” which he argued, had grave implication for national development.

Daudu warned that a continuation of this system “is inimical to national growth, development and indeed security. It also encourages cronyism, divide and rule and other ungodly

PDP, CNG Ask Masari to Resign for Failing to Protect Lives Francis Sardauna in Katsina

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Katsina State, yesterday asked the state governor, Alhaji Aminu Masari to resign with immediate for encouraging residents to acquire arms and defend themselves against bandits.

Similarly, the Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) reprimanded Masari for failing to protect lives and property, an obligation he swore into oath of allegiance to dutifully discharge.

While the Chairman of Katsina PDP, Alhaji Salisu Majigiri called for Masari’s resignation at a session with journalists, CNG asked the governor to quit in a statement signed by its Northwest Co-ordinator, Alhaji Aliyu Charanchi.

At the session with journalists, Majigiri described Masari’s statement as vindication of failure, said his administration has failed to protect the lives and property of the citizenry as enshrined in chapter two of the 1999 Constitution.

After the North-west youths sensitisation on e-registration at the party’s secretariat in Katsina, the chairman of the chapter said security and welfare of citizens is the primary responsibility of

government.

He said: “If the governor as the chief security officer of the state can not provide security for the people of his state the easiest thing to do is to resign from the office.

“Masari swore to protect and defend the provisions of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic Nigeria, but failed to provide welfare and security to the people. He has nothing to do rather than resign and give way for people who can provide welfare and security for the people.”

In its statement yesterday, the coalition admonished Masari to resign for failing to protect lives, an obligation h swore to discharge under the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic Nigeria.

The statement said Masari’s call “has exposed his weakness and inability to protect lives and property of the citizenry and combat the bandits, kidnappers and cattle rustlers It said the state government “has exhausted all options by admitting to the loss of the necessary courage and political will for dealing with the security challenges in the state and further dampening public confidence.

IBEDC Condoles Family of Late Okunbo Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

The Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) yesterday condoled the family of late billionaire, Captain Idahosa Okunbo, who did in a London hospital on August 8.

IBEDC’s Chief Operating Officer/CEO, Mr. John Ayodele lead the management to the Aiguobasmwin Crescent, GRA, Benin City, the country home of the business mogul, who was a director in the country until recently.

Signing the condolence

register, Ayodele wrote: “We have come to commiserate on the loss of our man, pillar, a dinosaur in his own right and a rare gem. We have lost you, but the Lord has gained you.

“1Thessalonians 4:13-19, speaks this to us. ‘The Lord giveth and the Lord taketh.

Blessed be the name of the Lord. We will forever miss you and your leadership role, but the Lord knows better.

Our father, brother and friend, rest in the bossom of the Lord to eternity. Rest in perfect peace.”

forms or styles of governance.

He, further, explained that any nation that encouraged such style of leadership “is bound to gravitate to the status of a failed state,” a situation, he said, all stakeholders should rise to

reverse as soon as possible.

In specific terms, however, Daudu warned: “If we do not change or teach real change, one small cabal will rule us for the next 400 years while the people keep shouting and screaming

war is coming, war is coming.

“Which war will not come while a few from all corners and divers interests are feeding voraciously from the resources of this great country,” he said.

He, also, said the current

system “is not sustainable and the only remedy is immediate change by way of restructuring of our attitude and governmental structure so that the system can guarantee unity, Peace and progress.

SWORN TO ENFORCE PIA… L-R: Senior Special Assistant to the President on Natural Resources, Dr. Habib Nuhu; Member of the Petroleum Industry Act Implementation Commitee, Prof. Mohammad Ahmadu; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum Resources, Dr Sani Gwarzo; Minister of State for Petroleum Resources and Chairman of the Committee, Chief Timipre Sylva; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance, Dr Aliyu Ahmed; Executive Secretary, Petroleum Technology Development Fund, Dr Bello Gusau and Representative of the Minister of Finance, Chairman Securities and Exchange Commission, Mr Olufemi Lijadu, at the inauguration of the committee at the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Towers in Abuja... recently

Repentant Insurgents Can Be Prosecuted, Says Lai Mohammed The federal government yesterday recanted its position that it would not prosecute repentant members of Boko Haram and Islamist State for West Africa Province in line with global practices.

The apex government, however, clarified that repentant insurgents and terrorists could be prosecuted contrary to

reports in the public domain.

The Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, made this clarification in Washington DC. Yesterday.

Mohammed had defended the decision of the federal government not to prosecute repentant insurgents and terrorists on Friday during engagement with global

media outlets, think-tanks and influencers.

During the engagement, the minister had said: “I personally spoke to the military authority before I left Nigeria and they said what they were doing was what the global practice dictates about soldiers that surrendered; that they should be treated as

prisoners of war.

“You cannot just shoot them because there are international conventions that give rights also to prisoners of war. What the military is doing is that, when they surrender, they profile them to ensure that they are genuine and reintegrate them into the society,” he gad said.

A Lagos-based publishing firm, Mace Books Associates Limited, in conjunction with Treasure Books Limited, Yenagoa, has released the revised edition of Camouflage: Best of Contemporary Writing from Nigeria, edited by Nduka Otiono and Odoh Diego Okenyodo.

Described by Daily Trust newspaper as “an agenda-setting collection and a major milestone in the history of Nigerian literature only comparable to what Wole Soyinka’s Poems of Black Africa is to students and critics of African literature,” the

revised edition of the anthology is coming 15 years after the first edition was published in 2006.

The anthology which serves as a bridge between the “third” and “fourth” generation of Nigerian writers, boasts some of the most important names in African literature today as contributors.

The 358-page mixed genre anthology contains a total of 71 Nigerian writers including poets and short story writers.

It is an anthology of who is who in postmodern Nigerian writing curated by some of the

finest amongst the breeds.

Some of the contributors include: Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Helon Habila, Afam Akeh, Pius Adesanmi, Unoma Azuah, Chika Unigwe, Ahmed Maiwada, Uzor Maxim Uzoatu, Lola Shoneyin, E.E. Sule, Chiedu Ezeanah, Nengi and Bina Ilagha, Uche Nduka, Maik Nwosu, and Obi Nwakanma, to mention but a few.

According to the editors of the book, present volume is close to the original version.

“However, this edition features a new cover; a new short story,

‘The Fate of Yala Street’ by Ike Okonta; an extensively updated Notes on Contributors, and additional editing for errors. Sadly, some of the contributors have passed on in the intervening fifteen years. These include Pius Adesanmi, Nike Adesuyi, Adolphus Amasiatu, Halima Lawal, and Simeon Chibiko Nwakaudu. May their souls rest in power.”

To celebrate the release, the editors and the publishers have outlined some activities geared towards promoting the anthology.

Second Edition of Camouflage Released

Kwara North Stakeholders Hold Consultative Meeting with Saraki A 35-man delegation of Kwara North senatorial district stakeholders across all party divides yesterday night visited the Abuja home of immediate past Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, to discuss the situation in the state.

Led by former Governor of Kwara State and senator who represented Kwara North senatorial district in the 7th and 8th Senate, Alhaji Shaaba Lafiagi, the stakeholders said the meeting with Dr. Saraki was

part of the consultations that the people of the zone have embarked upon and that they are set to meet with other key leaders across the state.

Speaking at the beginning of the engagement, Senator Lafiagi, stated that the group was there to consult with Saraki on issues surrounding the sustainable unity and development of Kwara State, specifically as it relates to the agitations of the people of Kwara North.

“For the past two years,

the people from the five local government areas in Kwara North have been meeting and exchanging views, on several critical issues that affect the politics and governance of our state. We are here to tell you of our discussions because we know that you are a leader who cares about the concerns of all your people,” Senator Lafiagi said.

In his comments, Saraki thanked the delegation and commended them for being

united in the advocacy for the interests of the people of Kwara North.

“I have heard about this group, but I never knew how many of you I know. This is like a family meeting. Even though some of you are in different parties. It is a meeting of people whose paths have crossed and who have worked together for many years in the greater interest of our state and its people. We have done many great things together.

T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R ˾ AUGUST 22, 2021

79

SUNDAYSPORTS

Edited by: Duro Ikhazuagbe email:Duro.Ikhazuagbe@thisdaylive.com

Onwuzurike, Uko Dig Gold, Ofili Settles for Bronze in Kenya Nigeria third on medals table as curtain falls on World Athletics U-20 today Duro Ikhazuagbe

N

igeria’s duo of Udodi Chudi Onwuzurike and Imaobong Nse Uko won gold medals on the penultimate day of the World Athletics Under-20 Championships

in Nairobi, Kenya.

Onwuzurike who is American Collegiate fastest runner in the longer sprint, dusted a tight field to win the men’s 200m event of the World Under-20 event which curtains will be pulled today to end four days of topflight junior athletics.

He outpaced Letsile Tebogo of Botswana who came second in a time of 20.38, while South Africa’s Sinesipho Dambile won bronze in a time of 20.48.

The event in both the men and women categories were clean sweep for Africans with Nigeria, Namibia, Botswana and South Africa taking all six medals at stake to bring an exciting end to a historic night.

Prior to the World U20 Championships in Nairobi, not much was known about Onwuzurike, but the 18-year-old has been in a class of his own since arriving at the championships where he is representing Nigeria for the first time in his career.

He had the fastest time of all the heats (20.47) and stormed to a fast 20.13 in the semifinals which would have been a championship record but for the wind (2.4m/s).

In the final, he was quick out of the blocks and came off the bend before everyone else, coasting home to gold with a national U20 record of 20.21, making him Nigeria’s first 200m gold medalist at the World U20 since 1996 when Francis Obikwelu won the sprint double.

Onwuzurike, whose father was at the stadium to cheer him on, gushed after picking the precious metal: “It feels amazing. I had a very rough year and had injuries numerous times. I feel like my numbers weren’t really good and showing what I’m capable of, so coming out to show on the global stage that I’m the best is amazing.”

Imaobong Nse Uko (left) and Udodi Onwuzurike won gold medals in 400m and 200m respectively for Nigeria at the U-20 World Championships in Nairobi, Kenya ...yesterday

In the women’s event, Favour Ofili finished 3rd with a time of 22.23 to secure bronze on an impressive day for Team Nigeria. The event was won by Namibia’s Christine Mboma in a time of 21.84, while silver went to Beatrice Masilingi of Namibia.

Nigeria’s Imaobong Nse Uko had earlier in the day cruised to the women’s 400m gold medal in 51.55secs.

The Akwa Ibom-born 17-year old quarter miler came from behind to beat Poland’s Kornelia Lesiewicz to second position in a time of 51.97 while homegirl Sylvia Chelangat of Kenya finished 3rd in a time of 52.23.

Uko’s time is her personal best so far in her career.

Speaking shortly after winning her second gold in a time of 51.55, the youngster said “ It was very tough because of the weather.This is just the beginning of great things in my career. My coach and I really worked hard on this, I’m so excited, it would only get better.Coming here to make so much impact makes me feel so happy.. It means more hardwork, but the future is so bright.”

In the men’s javelin throw, Finnish Janne Läspä won gold over Ukrainian Artur Felfner, while Nigerian Chinecherem Nnamdi finished third and had to settle for silver.

PREMIER LEAGUE

FCTA Showers 37 Edo 2020 Guardiola Hails Jesus for Incredible Medalists with Cash Performance Against Norwich Olawale Ajimotokanin Abuja

Troost-Ekong, Etebo, Dennis, Iwobi, Onyeka, Others all in action for clubs Pep Guardiola highlighted Gabriel Jesus’ “incredible importance” to Manchester City after he stole the show from £100m man Jack Grealish in the champions’ demolition of Norwich.

Grealish opened his City account on his Premier League home debut, one of three goals Jesus laid on for his team-mates against the outclassed Canaries.

The Brazil striker has been linked with a move away from Etihad Stadium as a way of opening up funds for the purchase of Harry Kane from Tottenham but Guardiola was thrilled with Jesus’s contribution from the right side of the attack.

“If one person deserves respect and prizes and everything, it is him (Jesus) because he never complains. He is fantastic and all of us have to learn from him,” the Manchester City manager told BBC Sport.

For Nigerian players in the English topflight, it was a not too fruitful weekend as the trio of William Troost-Ekong, Oghenekaro Etebo and Emmanuel Dennis all featured for 90 minutes in Watford’s 2-0 defeat against Brighton & Hove Albion.

New man at the top, Frank Onyeka, narrowly missed Brentford Man-of-the -Match award, following Saturday’s 0-0 draw at Crystal Palace.

Onyeka finished second with 34 per cent to winner Kris Ajer who got 38 per cent.

Elsewhere in a Europe yesterday, Nigeria winger, Chidera Ejuke, 23, was on target in CSKA Moscow’s 2-0 win against Akhmat Grozny.

Ejuke scored the second goal for CSKA Moscow in the 74th minute after Vladislav Yakovlev had put the hosts ahead three minutes earlier.

Ejuke now have two goals in five league appearances for CSKA Moscow.

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has rewarded all the 37 athletes that won medals at the 20th National Sports Festival (NSF), held from April 2to 14, 2020 in Benin, Edo State with cash totaling N8.5 million.

The FCT harvested 6 gold, 15 silver and 16 bronze medals to finish 16th on the medal table.

The athletes were feted at an impressive award night hosted by the FCT Minister of State, Dr Ramatu Tijani Aliyu at the Centre for Arts and Culture.

Each gold medalist went home with N400,000, silver medalist N250,000 while each bronze medalist received N150,000.

The FCT Permanent Secretary, Mr Olusade Adesola, who represented the FCT Minister of State, assured all stakeholders that the administration would build on the accomplishment at

Edo 2020 by aiming for a better outing at the 21st edition of the National Sports Festival that comes up in 2022 in Delta State.

He said the FCTA camped and provided an enabling environment that enabled the athletes to flourish during the sports festival.

On his part, the Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Mr Sunday Dare, who was the Guest of Honour at the reception commended FCTA and state governments for feting their athletes that excelled at the Sports Festival.

“I am proud to identify with the athletes here several months after the Edo 2020. I see states still celebrating and rewarding the athletes. We see Bayelsa, Edo, Delta, Plateau celebrating their athletes. That is the regime we want where governors will be celebrating their athletes.

“The future of our sports development is in the hands of these young ones,” Dare said.

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PIA and the Triumph of Mischief

H

ave you heard the news?

The Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) signed by President Muhammadu Buhari is the most anti-Niger Delta legislation in history, conceived and designed to further exploit the oil-producing region in favour of the north. How can PIA allocate a mere 3% to host communities while giving a whopping 30% of the profit of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) to frontier exploration which is absolutely in favour of the north? This amounts to further stealing the resources of the traumatised people of Niger Delta. In fact, Niger Delta militants should start bombing pipelines again to fight this grave injustice and total disrespect for the region.

If you believe this, I will not blame you that much. You are probably a victim of misinformation.

In my study of media-based agitations over the last two decades, what I found out — and quite intriguingly — is that most of those who make initial comments on a national issue and stir long-lasting controversies often have two things in common: ignorance and mischief. They deploy these two disabilities to create and shape public debate.

People begin to parrot them without cross-checking.

The “alternative fact” becomes the established “truth” — no matter the corrections and rebuttals thereafter. People often succeed mainly because they play on our divisions and emotions.

The hysteria around the PIA started with the mischievous comparison between the allocations to the trust fund for host communities and the frontier exploration. In logic, this is called “false equivalence”. The 3% from the operational expenditure (OPEX) of oil companies will go directly to the host communities. The 30% for frontier basin is to be set aside by the NNPC from its “profit oil and profit gas” for oil exploration across Nigeria — to increase our reserves. How are these two the same? One goes directly to communities from oil companies. The other does not go to any community. It is for the NNPC to spend on prospecting for oil for the benefit of the whole country.

Two, what the PIA says is that 30% of NNPC’s “profit oil and profit gas” should go into frontier exploration. Some have clandestinely changed “profit oil and profit gas” to “profit”. “Profit oil and profit gas” is NNPC’s share of the profit from its production sharing contracts (PSCs) after the contractor — the provider of finance and expertise — has taken the bulk. In 2019, “profit oil and profit gas” contributed just 2% of total revenue from oil, according to a NEITI report. Others were: sale of equity crude, 30.4%; petroleum profit tax, 19%; sale of royalty oil, 13%; sale of domestic crude, 7.85%; VAT, 3.5%; corporate tax, 3.4%; signature bonus, 2.7%; and NLNG dividend, 2.68%.

Total revenue from the sector in 2019 was $34.2 billion. “Profit oil and profit gas” accounted for just 0.6% of that in 2019. What we are preparing to go to war over now is 30% of the 0.6% revenue from profit oil and profit gas. In naira terms, about N60 billion will be set aside by NNPC yearly for frontier exploration — compared to the estimated $500 million (over N200 billion) that will go to the host communities from the annual OPEX of oil companies under PIA. Please compare and contrast. Ironically, NNPC already budgets N50 billion annually for frontier exploration in the Chad basin. PIA has now extended the fund to the Anambra, Dahomey, Bida, Sokoto and Benue troughs. Phew!

Three, even if we say it is 30% of “profit” (which is untrue), does NNPC make profit?

What is 30% of zero? My math is atrocious, but 30% of nothing will be equal to nothing any day. Conversely, 3% of OPEX is a sure banker: it will be built into the annual budgets of the oil

Buhari companies, NNPC inclusive. The oil companies already devote 3% of their annual budgets to the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) as required by law. So, this is another 3% charge on the companies. Based on the budget for OPEX by oil companies for 2021, the communities will have a provision of, give or take, $500 million yearly. This never existed before the PIA. And this is what is called gross injustice.

Four, when you add the $500 million to what already goes to oil-producing areas through 13 per cent derivation, Ministry of Niger Delta, NDDC and Amnesty Programme, you really need to search elsewhere for the injustice these critics are talking about. The N200 billion to host communities is an entirely new stream of income to the oil-producing areas since we found oil in 1956. And there is even more: the PIA provides that the host communities will share from the gas flare penalties. That is roughly another N130 billion in the kitty! Yet, the PIA is gross injustice.

That is why if I had my way, I would hand over the entire oil revenue to the Niger Delta, hoping it would finally bring peace.

Five, “frontier exploration” is being framed as “northern exploration”. Those pushing this line and creating a false equivalence with the host fund actually think they are fighting the north.

Unfortunately, there are frontier basins elsewhere.

The frontier fund is for oil exploration outside the Niger Delta. We have the Anambra, Benue and Dahomey troughs which cut across southern and middle belt states such as Benue, Taraba, Enugu, Ebonyi, Anambra, Lagos, Ogun and Ondo, etc.

The PIA has clearly extended frontier exploration to all the troughs in the country. Why not monitor, instead, to make sure southern states benefit from the fund? Isn’t that more reasonable?

Six, let us even say the frontier exploration fund is only for the north (which is untrue). The sense I have been getting from some outspoken southern leaders, at least from reading newspapers, is that they do not want to be in the same country with northerners. They say northerners are parasites and beggars. In that case, why not encourage them to prospect for oil in their own region so that they can leave your oil for you? Why should you be angry or afraid that oil may be found up north? You want only your region to have oil so that you can continue to belittle others as parasites? Really? This is what the Yoruba call the spirit of “kenimani” (wishing others will not prosper like you).

What I find most troubling is that it appears we have been programmed in Nigeria to see and amplify the worst of things. The Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) had been gathering dust on the shelves of the national assembly since 2008.

The original idea was to create an omnibus and contemporary law to govern the oil industry. In

2000, President Olusegun Obasanjo set up the Dr Emmanuel Egbogah-led Oil and Gas Implementation Committee (OGIC) for this purpose. Egbogah, now of blessed memory, was one of the most respected experts in the oil industry globally. The work of OGIC gave birth to the PIB, which was first sent to the national legislature in 2008 by President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua.

Bedevilled by intrigues (including the absurd claim in 2012 that fake versions were being circulated among the federal lawmakers), the PIB remained a dream. Now that we have finally crossed the finish line, the first wave of reaction has been so predictable: condemnation, laced with threats.

Of course, the Buhari administration has done a poor job in the area of communication. (Lai Mohammed, the information minister, is only interested in bullying the social media.) That governors are issuing press statements to air their reservations over the PIA says a lot about how this administration communicates with the key stakeholders. Victory is gradually turning to defeat!

States have legitimate reasons to be worried over the PIA. The frontier exploration fund will affect FAAC. The host community fund will also affect FAAC. At a time of dwindling revenues, everyone, including the federal government, has reasons to worry. Every little kobo will impact on federation allocation. But we have to see this as a matter of trade-off: more revenue to communities and less to FAAC, more revenue for investment in exploration and less money to FAAC — but the “losses” are balanced with peace in the host communities and the benefit of investing in frontier exploration today so that we can have more revenue to share tomorrow.

This should be seen as a win-win.

For full disclosure, I am a “petro-sceptic”. I hold the position that oil wealth has done extensive damage to Nigeria and Nigerians. I am one of those who theorise that the hydrocarbon has ruined or retarded Nigeria’s human, economic and political development in the last 45 years.

I am of the view that the petrodollar has led to poor governance and fuelled corruption and conflict. I believe we would have attained real development if we had not enjoyed oil boom and had continued on our path of agriculture and industrialisation as it was in the 1950s and 60s.

I believe the boom-bust cycle of oil has derailed our development trajectory and thrown us into a chronic cyclical economic crisis.

Nevertheless, I cannot deceive myself by trying to run away from the fact that the petrodollar remains the backbone of Nigeria’s public finance and the supplier of most of the forex. We cannot deny that. Therefore, when you realise the amount of investments Nigeria has lost over the years because of the uncertainty over the PIB, you would appreciate why passing the legislation is a milestone worth celebrating. According to Buhari, Nigeria lost $50 billion worth of investments in the past 10 years to the uncertainty. If this economy can receive such investments in the next 10 years, assuming things go well, there is no way we won’t feel some positive impact.

I understand that people must play politics.

I also understand that part of playing politics in Nigeria is to raise the stakes to take as much as you can get from the system. The oil communities have every right to try to hold on tightly to their natural resources. It is their luck that there is plenty hydrocarbon in the bellies of their earth. Left to me, they can keep all the revenue. Nobody will die. Many countries don’t have oil. However, in all these agitations, we should appreciate progress. From zero naira to N200 billion is progress in my books. We should also not stop other parts of Nigeria from exploring for more oil. And, above all, let us stick to the facts and stop the mischief.

And Four Other Things…

ROAD TAX The story is told of a student who exploited his illiterate parents by saying his teacher asked him to buy three books: Dic, Tion and Ary. He simply broke dictionary into three!

The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) is about to pull a fast one on Nigerians by seeking to institute “road tax” —the permit to put your vehicle on the road. It is the same thing as the “vehicle licence” that we already pay for in Nigeria. It is called “road tax” in the UK. Somebody from FIRS obviously travelled to the UK and thought he had made a big discovery. If we don’t rise up against the proposed tax, FIRS will succeed in making monkeys out of all Nigerians. And toll gates are about to return. Crafty.

MANTLE OF DEMOCRACY When former deputy senate president, Alhaji Ibrahim Mantu, died at the age of 74 on Tuesday from COVID-19 complications, my mind went back to the third term plot of President Olusegun Obasanjo in 2006.

Mantu was at the forefront. I was very critical of him. It was only recently we got to know, through Chief Orji Uzor Kalu’s memoir, that Mantu was actually working against it.

If indeed this is true, then Mantu deserves to be regarded as a hero of our democracy.

If Obasanjo had succeeded with his third term push, we probably would be saddled with a life president today as nothing stops anybody from removing term limits from the constitution. Nigeria dodged a bullet!

Thankfully.

PLATEAU KILLINGS I join well-meaning Nigerians in condemning the massacre of 22 travellers, all Muslims, in Plateau state last weekend. But as it is usual with us, the reactions were so predictable.

While southern newspapers buried the story in inside pages, northern papers splashed it on the front. If the victims were Christians, you can bet the reverse would be the case.

We need to get to a stage where we would be angry and saddened by the avoidable death of any Nigerian — no matter the religion and ethnicity. The truth is that this country has woefully failed to protect ordinary Nigerians, no matter where they come from.

As I keep saying, nobody can claim to be safe in Nigeria. Fact.

CATCH-22 HARAM The Nigerian government is faced with a dilemma of monumental proportions on what to do with the “repentant” Boko Haram fighters who appear to be in disarray after the death of Abubakar Shekau. Many of them are reportedly surrendering to the Nigerian military. Ordinarily, this should be good news.

But we first have to be sure this is for real.

Are they truly Boko Haram fighters? Have they truly repented or are they just trying to catch their breath before regrouping? Can a leopard change its spots? If they have truly repented, should they be granted amnesty or made to pay for their crime? Or can they become assets for the security agencies in the war on terror? Quandary.

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