SUNDAY 4TH FEBRUARY 2024

APC Wins House Seats in Lagos, Ondo, Cross River as INEC Suspends Elections in Akwa Ibom, Enugu, Kano Commission postpones elections in Plateau Our Correspondents The All Progressives Congress (APC) yesterday won three

House of Representatives’ seats in Lagos, Ondo and Cross River states just as the Independent National Electoral Commission

(INEC) has suspended re-run elections in some constituencies and polling units (PUs) in Akwa Ibom, Enugu and

Kano states due to violence and irregularities.

APC was also leading in the Ebonyi South and Yobe East

senatorial by-elections.

In Lagos State, APC’s Fuad Kayode Laguda, emerged victorious in Surulere Federal

Constituency 1.

Laguda will succeed the Continued on page 5

US Confirms Sale of 12 Attack Helicopters, Others to Nigeria for $1bn… Page 6 Sunday, February 4, 2024 Vol 29. No 10525

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ECOWAS: Don’t Endanger Our Age-long Bonds of Fraternity, Niger Republic Tells Nigeria Says it assisted Nigeria during the civil war Michael Olugbode in Abuja Niger Republic has cautioned

the Nigerian government against intruding on its sovereignty and endangering the fraternal ties

between the two countries.

Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger Republic had in a joint statement

issued on January 28 announced their withdrawal from the Economic Community of West

African States (ECOWAS).

President Bola Tinubu is the current Head of ECOWAS.

The three countries, who Continued on page 5

FG Shoots Down Report of Plans to Convert $30bn Domiciliary Accounts to Naira Allegation aims to trigger panic in foreign exchange market, says CBN FG determined to stabilise forex, ease living cost, Idris insists Says no political motive behind relocation of CBN, FAAN offices Festus Akanbi in Lagos, James Emejo in Abuja and Laleye Dipo in Minna The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, yesterday angrily shot down a report that the federal government was planning to convert foreign currencies worth about $30 billion in domiciliary accounts of Nigerians to naira as part

of the efforts to stabilize the nation’s currency, describing the report as economic sabotage.

Edun’s reaction is coming as the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has also described the alleged plans to convert foreign currencies to naira as absolutely false and an attempt to trigger panic in the foreign exchange market.

Continued on page 5

Gbajabiamila: Nigerians will Begin to Reap THE NEW OGBENI OJA OF IJEBULAND… Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona (left), installing the Co-founder of EKO Hospital, Olor’oogun Sonny Kuku, as the third Benefits of Petrol Subsidy Removal Soon... Page8 The Ogbeni Oja of Ijebuland at his palace in Ijebu-Ode…yesterday

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NEWS APC WINS HOUSE SEATS IN LAGOS, ONDO, CROSS RIVER AS INEC SUSPENDS ELECTIONS IN AKWA IBOM, ENUGU, KANO former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, who vacated his seat in the House following his appointment as President Bola Tinubu’s Chief of Staff.

In Ondo, Ife Ehindero of the APC scored 35,504 votes to claim the Akoko North East/North West Federal Constituency seat. His PDP challenger, Olalekan Bada, polled 15,328 votes.

The APC candidate was declared winner of the by-election having scored 35,504 votes to defeat the PDP candidate, Olalekan Bada who scored 15,324 votes.

Ehindero will succeed Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo who was appointed Minister of Interior.

In Cross River State, Dr. Emil Inyang of the APC was declared winner for the Akamkpa/Biase Federal Constituency.

Announcing the result of the election, the Returning Officer, Joshua Umo declared that Inyang got 15,930 votes while Austin Aidam of the PDP polled 12,417 votes In Oyo State, Mr. Shittu Ibrahim of the APC won the Saki West State Constituency

poll after polling 13,850 votes to narrowly beat Mr. Julius Okedoyin of the PDP, who got 13,670 votes.

Mr Amakoromo Waikumo of the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) emerged as the winner of the Yenagoa Constituency II re-run election in Bayelsa State.

He polled 5,959 votes to narrowly beat his closest rival, Mrs Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai of the PDP who garnered 5263 votes.

For the Yobe East Senatorial by-election, Mr. Musa Mustapha of the APC was leading his main challenger, Mallam Ajiko in results released as of press time by INEC. INEC’s National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, Mr. Sam Olumekun, announced the cancellation of the elections in three states.

The elections were in some polling units in 26 states and 80 local government areas across the country.

In Akwa Ibom State, elections were cancelled in some units in Ikono/Ini Federal Constituency,

due to the carting away of election materials by hoodlums.

In Enugu State, the exercise was suspended in all eight polling units (PUs) of Enugu South 1 State Constituency where the original results sheets were not available for inspection by voters before the commencement of polls.

The commission also announced the suspension of the re-run elections in IgboEze North/Udenu Federal Constituency in Enugu State over disruptions, irregularities and abduction of election officials by thugs and suspected security agents.

In most of the affected areas, the original results sheets were not available for inspection by voters before the commencement of polls.

Olamekun, who announced the cancellation in a statement, said necessary measures for the affected constituencies would be announced after the commission’s meeting on Monday.

He also called on security agencies to investigate the incidents in the affected constituency.

FG SHOOTS DOWN REPORT OF PLANS TO CONVERT $30BN DOMICILIARY ACCOUNTS TO NAIRA This is just as the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, has declared that the President Bola Tinubu-led administration was committed to implementing reforms to curb inflation, ease the cost of living and stabilise foreign exchange.

Idris has also reiterated that the planned relocation of some departments of the CBN and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) to Lagos has no political motive.

A major newspaper (not THISDAY) had reported yesterday that the federal government was mulling plans to convert $30 billion in domiciliary accounts to the depreciating national currency.

But in a swift reaction, Edun, in a statement issued yesterday, described the report as a falsehood that violates the standards of responsible journalism, adding that it is also “a breach, which will no doubt be taken up by the appropriate authorities in due course.”

“There is no iota of truth in the claims that the federal government plans to convert foreign exchange in depositors’ domiciliary accounts to naira,” Edun added.

He argued that “the publication of such falsehood at a time when the government is working to restore economic stability and confidence in the national currency is tantamount to economic sabotage.”

According to the minister, “the report violates the standards of responsible journalism and it is a breach which will no doubt be taken up by the appropriate authorities in due course.”

“For the avoidance of doubt, I emphasise that depositors’ foreign currency in their domiciliary accounts will not be converted to naira,” Edun added.

Also reacting on its official X page, the CBN said: “No plans to convert $30bn domiciliary deposits to naira. This news is fake!”

In a separate reaction, the Acting CBN Director for Corporate Communications, Mrs. Sidi-Ali, Hakama, described the allegation as absolutely false and aimed at triggering “panic in the foreign

exchange market, which the CBN is working assiduously to stabilise, as evidenced by its recent work and policy directions.”

She said similar false narratives had been spread on the work of the CBN over the past few months, adding that it was clear that vested interests were determined to sabotage the bank's efforts.

Sidi-Ali said: "We want to assure the general public that CBN is working to build confidence and would never do anything to undermine the currency and the economy.

“We, therefore, urge all stakeholders to disregard stories aimed at causing panic in the system and see them clearly for what they are - acts of national sabotage.

"We wish to advise, in the strongest terms, against the peddling of false reports that have the potential to be disruptive to the economy.

"The bank is the only designated authority for monetary policy changes and will always advise on any policy change(s) before they are brought into operation."

FG Determined to Stabilise Forex, Ease Living Cost, Malagi Insists Meanwhile, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Idris has declared that the Tinubu-led administration was committed to implementing reforms to curb inflation, ease the cost of living and stabilise foreign exchange.

The minister stated this yesterday in Minna, Niger State at the 2024 Press Week of the State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ).

The minister’s Special Assistant on Media, Mr. Rabiu Ibrahim, in a statement quoted the minister as saying that the reforms will boost the country’s economic growth.

The minister, represented by the Director-General of the Voice of Nigeria, Malam Jibrin Baba Ndace, said 2024 had a lot of prospects for Nigerians as some of the promising initiatives of the administration began to bear fruits.

“2024 would be a great

year for Nigeria as the Renewed Hope Agenda takes firmer roots for the growth of our nation’s economic development, invaluable human assets, and national security.

“The Tinubu administration will continue to implement macroeconomic reforms to achieve broad economic objectives of sustained economic growth aimed at bringing down inflation, easing the cost of living, stabilising foreign exchange and job creation, among others.

“Against the backdrop of the withdrawal of fuel subsidy, liberalising the foreign exchange regime, and the fight against corruption.

“The Tinubu-led government is showing fidelity to the rule of law and the independence of institutions as demonstrated in the recent judgments of the courts,” the minister explained.

Idris has also clarified that the planned relocation of some departments of the CBN and FAAN to Lagos State has no political motive.

“The recent decision to relocate certain departments of the Central Bank of Nigeria and the headquarters of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria to Lagos is part of a broader strategy to enhance operational efficiency.

“And also, streamline processes, ensure a responsive financial system for Nigeria, and cut operational costs. The directive aligns with global best practices and has no political motivation whatsoever as wrongly propagated.

“I assured that no policy of the present administration would put any part of the country in a disadvantageous position,” Idris said.

He said that Tinubu’s commitment to fairness and equitable development, as outlined in his oath of office, ensured that no policy under his administration would be of disadvantage to any region.

According to Idris, Tinubu’s dedication to fostering national unity and inclusivity is reflected in policies guided by principles of fairness and equality.

The minister also used the occasion to enlist the support of the media in the fight against fake news.

In Kano State, the state police command has announced the arrest of dozens of thugs allegedly hired to disrupt the re-run elections in some parts of the state.

The state Commissioner of Police, CP Mohammed Usaini Gumel, who disclosed this yesterday to journalists in Kano, stated that the thugs were arrested in possession of arms and were allegedly hired by a politician contesting in the election.

The arrests were made around the Kunchi/Tsanyawa area, one of the constituencies in the state.

“The decision of the commission aligns with the provisions of Section 24(3) of the Electoral Act, 2022.

Further necessary measures for the affected constituencies will be announced after the commission’s meeting on Monday.

“INEC invites the security agencies to investigate the incidents, while the commission commits to thoroughly interrogating any breaches involving its officials,” Olumekun said.

INEC Postpones Elections in Plateau Meanwhile, INEC has also postponed elections in 18 polling units in the re-run for Plateau North Senatorial district election and Bassa/Jos North Federal constituency.

The Resident Electoral Commissioner in the State, Dr Oliver Agundu, disclosed this yesterday while speaking with journalists in Jos, the state capital.

He said that the postponement of the elections till today followed complaints of ballot paper shortages.

The REC, who stated that an investigation had been launched by the commission to unravel the cause of the ballot papers shortage in the affected polling units said, “In respect of the

reports that were coming in from some polling units that there were shortages of ballot papers in respect of the Federal House of Representatives seat, we did a holistic appraisal of the situation and we have received a comprehensive report on all the poling units and they summed up to 18 of them in total.

“We will see the possibility of also giving them the opportunity to also cast their votes tomorrow (Sunday), but we will make a final position on that when we meet by 8pm.

That is the situation and we want the public to know that we take their concerns seriously. We are also doing a very thorough investigation on what has happened on these polling units,” the REC added.

Vote Buying Mars Re-run Election in Sokoto The rerun election for the Yabo/Shagari House of Representatives seat recorded an impressive turnout in polling units where the election was rescheduled.

However, excessive vote buying was the order of the day, as witnessed in some of the polling units visited by our correspondent.

Indeed, the election was an open bazaar as agents of the leading political parties in the state doled out between N20,000 and N35,000 to each voter.

Meanwhile, men of the Sokoto State Police Command have confirmed the arrest of two persons for disturbing the process during the re-run election in the state.

The command’s spokesman, ASP Ahmed Rufai, said the two persons were arrested at Magaji polling units in Shagari LGA. “They are currently in our custody while investigations are ongoing on the matter,” Rufai added.

Vote Not Captured by BVAS will Not Count, Says INEC In another development, the National Commissioner of the INEC, Kenneth Ukeagu has vowed that any vote that is not captured in the BVAS will not count.

Ukeagu made this known while speaking with journalists at the Afikpo North LGA headquarters, collation centre for the Ebonyi South senatorial zone by-election.

Speaking on the alleged bypass of BVAS by agents during accreditation and voting in some polling units, especially in Ohaozara and Afikpo North LGAs, he said that the commission will apply the rules involved in BVAS. “We have our rules and guidelines with regards to the use of BVAS in the election.

And in all elections, we applied the rules and guidelines, and if there are such cases where BVAS weren't used, the rules will be applied,” he said.

Low Turnout, Votebuying Characterise Kaduna By-election In Kaduna State, there was low turnout of voters in many polling units during yesterday's by-election in seven state constituencies.

The constituencies are located in Chikun, Igabi, Kaduna South, Kudan, Kachia, Kagarko, and Kauru Local Government Areas (LGAs) of the state.

In Angwan Pama, Narayi, Sabon-Tasha, Maraban Rido and Karji areas in the Chikun LGA, many polling units were virtually empty as only few people came out to vote.

However, in Kakuri, Makera, Kakuri-Gwari and Barnanwa areas in Kaduna South LGA, there was appreciable turnout of voters amid allegations of vote buying by party agents.

ECOWAS: DON’T ENDANGER OUR AGE-LONG BONDS OF FRATERNITY, NIGER REPUBLIC TELLS NIGERIA are under military regimes, had condemned the sanctions imposed by ECOWAS to reverse the coups in their countries.

While the federal government had condemned the exit of the three countries from ECOWAS, the sub-regional body had also expressed shock at the development.

Reacting in a statement by the Head of the Division of Regional Economic Communities at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Niger Republic, Madam Bintou Ouattara, the Nigerien government stated that Nigeria’s action since the change of guard in the country was not representative of the Nigerian people but a few misguided people in power acting the plot of some Western powers who meant no good.

The Nigerien government cited the help it rendered to Nigeria during the Biafran civil war, saying it was critical in safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.

The statement read: “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Cooperation and Nigeriens abroad expresses its surprise at the denial of reality and international law in which the Nigerian authorities seem to be moving in refusing to admit for the sovereign Republic of Niger, the ability to withdraw from the regional organisation which, moreover, has been truly diverted from its noble missions and no longer meets the legitimate aspirations of the Nigerien people and all the peoples of the Alliance of

Sahel States.

“Also, the Government of the Republic of Niger rejects, with serenity, the impertinent and condescending remarks contained in the press release from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Republic of Nigeria dated January 29, 2024. Indeed, these remarks are not natural to contribute to the necessary dialogue between our two brother countries and are, in reality, carried by a small group of individuals in the pay of foreign powers; the very ones who frustrated all efforts for a negotiated solution to the resulting crisis to the events of July 26, 2023 in Niger.”

The statement alleged that “in more than a decade of the security crisis in the Sahel and the fight against terrorism, ECOWAS has never demonstrated the slightest compassion towards the battered people of Burkina, Mali, and Niger, even provided any significant military, material or financial support to our countries.

“By deciding, irresponsibly, to illegally and unjustly sanction Niger and to undertake military intervention against our country, ECOWAS has become a threat to all the peoples of the Sahel and its member states,” the statement added.

“With particular regard to Nigeria’s responsibility, the Government of Niger notes, with deep regret, that history will record that the unfair, illegal, unjust, and inhuman sanctions against Niger were

taken under the leadership of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, current President of the ECOWAS Conference of Heads of State and Government. Then, to the irresponsible ECOWAS sanctions, Nigeria, despite our neighbourly and fraternity ties, added its own punitive sanctions, namely: Cutting off the supply of electrical energy indiscriminately, blocking the supply to Niger in pharmaceutical and food products, etc.

“This attitude marked by amnesia also led Nigeria, which shelters on its territory all the fugitives of the fallen regime, to engage in an action to destabilise Niger with the complicity of certain ECOWAS States supported by France (colonial power) which, just yesterday, aimed at the partition of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, to the great dismay of the sister Republic of Niger whose strong commitment during the Biafran War was decisive in the safeguarding of territorial integrity and sovereignty of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“In any case, Niger has no moral lessons, much less democracy, governance, or patriotism to receive from the current Nigerian authorities.

Also, Niger urges them to exercise restraint and pull themselves together so as not to endanger our age-old bonds of fraternity, which fully deserve to be preserved in the best interests of our two peoples,” the statement explained.

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NEWS

MEDIA AWARDS… L-R: Managing Director/Editor -in-Chief, New Telegraph, Mr. Ayodele Aminu, Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat; Deputy Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria, Mr. Philip Ikeazor; and Secretary to the Lagos State Government, Mrs. Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, at the New Telegraph Awards held at the Federal Palace Hotel, Lagos weekend.

United States Confirms Sale of 12 Attack Helicopters, Others to Nigeria for $1bn Ugo Aliogo with agency report In a significant move aimed at improving Nigeria's defence capabilities, the United States Department of Defence has confirmed the sale of arms valued at $1 billion to Nigeria.

According to a statement issued by the US Defence Security Cooperation Agency, the deal includes the procurement of 12 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters, as well as 32 mission computers from Northrop Grumman.

The acquisition of 12 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters will enhance Nigeria's ability to conduct precision strikes and undertake rapid response operations for the country's overall security and stability.

The statement added that the strategic move is expected to bolster Nigeria's ability to respond to security challenges and strengthen its overall defence posture.

Nigeria’s complex security challenges have displaced millions and claimed countless

lives, making the purchase of the helicopter, scheduled for completion in June 2024, a significant upgrade to the country’s military assets.

The sale follows the US State Department’s approval in April 2022 of Nigeria’s request for the helicopters, which includes guidance systems, night vision imaging systems, and extensive training.

The statement said the sale of 12 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters and 32 mission computers to Nigeria marks a significant milestone in the defence cooperation between the United States and Nigeria.

This deal not only enhances Nigeria's military capability but also signifies a deepening partnership between the two countries in addressing security challenges in the region.

The AH-1Z Viper is a highly advanced attack helicopter that will provide Nigeria with enhanced capabilities to conduct a wide range of military operations, including counterinsurgency and

counterterrorism efforts.

The inclusion of 32 mission computers from Northrop Grumman, it was learnt, will further augment the effectiveness of the helicopters by providing advanced mission planning and execution capabilities.

This comprehensive package underscores the United States' commitment to supporting Nigeria in its efforts to address security threats and protect its territorial integrity.

The deployment of advanced attack helicopters in Nigeria is expected to have a ripple effect on the security dynamics of West Africa, potentially influencing the balance of power and security architecture in the region. The increased capabilities of the Nigerian military could lead to a more assertive role in addressing security threats not only within its borders but also in neighboring countries, thereby reshaping the regional security landscape.

The collaboration between the United States and Nigeria

in strengthening defence capabilities reflects a shared commitment to enhancing regional security and countering transnational threats.

The advanced technological capabilities of the AH-1Z Viper helicopters, coupled with the integrated mission computers, are expected to significantly enhance Nigeria's operational effectiveness and situational awareness, thereby enabling the country to respond more effectively to evolving security challenges.

As both nations work together to enhance regional security, the impact of this strategic move is poised to resonate across West Africa.

The enhanced defence capabilities of Nigeria, coupled with its deepening partnership with the United States, are likely to have far-reaching implications for the regional security dynamics, shaping the trajectory of security cooperation and defense engagements in the region.

“The strategic move is

Court Adjourns N5tn Copyright Infringement Suit against Works Ministry to May 2 Alex Enumah in Abuja Justice Mobolaji Olajuwon of a Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned a N5 trillion- suit against the Federal Ministry of Works and nine others, over the alleged stealing of the idea of a firm, in respect of a highway concession project in the country, to May 2.

Justice Olajuwon adjourned the matter shortly after the first witness, Kenneth Ibe-Kalu, ended his evidence in the matter.

The plaintiffs, Hugiano Embold Solutions Ltd and Kenneth Ibe-Kalu had dragged the defendants to court for executing its concept named the National Transformation Tourists Centers (NTTC); after renaming it the Highway Development and

Management Initiative (HDMI).

Specifically, they accused the ministry of plagiarising and infringing on their copyright, by renaming the original design of its NTTC as HDMI. At Thursday's proceedings, the first witness, Ibe-Kalu tendered some documents on the NTTC, which included a Letter of Endorsement, and a notice to produce documents, among others.

The witness in his statement of claim averred that he designed the NTTC as a national development vision for the construction of tourist centres along corridors of all federal roads in Nigeria to be sited after every 100 kilometres along the 34,123 kilometres length of federal roads in Nigeria with a total of 340 centres.

He said before the project was

hijacked, he raised the initial $15 billion required to equip the centres with many departments such as hotels, pharmacy departments, commercial towing van centres, car washes, highway clinics, farmers markets, tourist centres, fast food centres, supermarkets, movie, and music marketing centres, children's parks, vehicle parks, mini banks, security, and rapid response agencies, National Orientation Agency (NOA) help desk and other support services.

At the end of the evidence, counsel to the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing, Ezekiel Dairo, informed the court that he was not prepared to conduct the cross-examination of the witness.

The judge subsequently fixed May 2, for the cross-examination

of the witness by the respondents.

Besides the Minister of Works and Housing, other defendants in the suit marked: FHC/ABJ/ CS/1047/2022, are the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC); the Minister, Federal Ministry of Information and Culture and the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC).

Others are: National Planning Commission, KPMG Advisory Services, Incorporated Trustees of Pan-Atlantic University Foundation (Lagos Business School), United Kingdom Secretary of State for the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (United Kingdom Nigeria Infrastructure Advisory Facility Programme).

poised to bolster Nigeria's ability to respond to security challenges and strengthen its overall defense posture. The announcement has sparked discussions on the geopolitical implications for the region, highlighting the potential impact on the regional security

landscape. As both nations work together to enhance regional security, the impact of this strategic move is poised to resonate across West Africa, setting the stage for a new chapter in defense collaboration and regional security dynamics,” the statement added.

Four Officers Killed as ISWAP Fighters Attack Police Quarters in Borno Michael Olugbode in Abuja Four policemen have been allegedly killed, and a cache of ammunition stolen when suspected terrorists believed to be fighters of the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) attacked a police station in Nganzai Local Government Area of Borno State.

Zagazola Makama, a counterinsurgency publication focused on the Lake Chad region, gathered from sources that the terrorists disguised themselves and sneaked into the town at about 11 a.m. on Friday.

The suspected ISWAP terrorists were said to have gone straight to the police quarters in Gajiram town and opened fire killing four policemen.

The sources also said mobile policemen at the police quarters engaged the terrorists in a heavy gun battle which prevented the assailant from burning down the quarters.

The publication said troops from Operation Hadin Kai of Gajiram, a military intervention in the northeast, responded to the scene.

“Some of the police officers were also lucky to have survived the onslaught of the terror attack, but the unfortunate four officers paid the supreme price while on active duty,” the PUNCH source disclosed.

He added, “There was confusion in our town last night.

The ISWAP fighters attacked the

police station in Gajiram. They outnumbered and overpowered the policemen on duty.

“We found four dead bodies of the policemen who lost their lives early this morning. Some policemen are yet to return as we speak.”

Borno State has repeatedly come under several severe attacks from insurgents and terrorists despite the efforts of the military and other joint security operatives to contain the heinous activities of the various terror groups in the state.

A local vigilante group source who confirmed the attack to our correspondent revealed that the invaders had left the scene before the military reinforcement arrived.

“Yes, when we got the report and contacted the military who responded swiftly, because their troop mobilised and moved to the scene, but unfortunately, the invaders had escaped,” he said.

While confirming the attack and the killing of four of his colleagues, the Borno State Police Command spokesman, ASP Nahum Kenneth said, “We received reports that insurgents attacked the Gajiram Police Station around 1 am today, Saturday, February 3.

“Four policemen indeed paid the supreme price in an exchange of fire with the terrorists when security agents quickly mobilised to repel the attack.

“Normalcy has since been restored in the town,” he said.

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WITH DEVELOPMENT PARTNERS… L-R: UNICEF Representative in Nigeria, Cristian Munduate; Spanish Ambassador to the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Juan Ignacio Sell; and Minister of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, during the Five Cowries Arts Education Initiative Launch of Vision 2030 held in Abuja… recently

Awujale Installs Sonny Kuku as Ogbeni Oja of Ijebuland James Sowole in Abeokuta The Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, yesterday installed the Co-founder of EKO Hospital, Olor’oogun Sonny Kuku, as the third Ogbeni Oja of Ijebuland.

The ceremony was also marked alongside Kuku’s 80th birthday.

The Pro-Chancellor, University of Benin, succeeded his late uncle and lawyer, Bayo Kuku, the 2nd Ogbeni Oja of Ijebuland, who died in 2015.

The Ojude Pavilion used for the installation was filled to the brim with well-wishers, relatives, friends and associates of the new Ogbeni Oja who came to keep a date with the epoch-making occasion Dignitaries at the event were led by the Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, who was represented by his Deputy, Noimot Salako-Oyedele.

Others were the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat; former governors

of Ogun State, Olusegun Osoba, Ibikunle Amosun and Gbenga Daniel who currently represents Ogun East in the Senate, among others.

Royal fathers at the event included the Akarigbo and Chairman, Ogun State Council of Traditional Rulers, Adewale Ajayi; the Olu of Ilaro and Paramount ruler of Yewaland, Kehinde Olugbenle; the Osile of Oke Ona Egba, Adedapo Tejuoso, amongst others.

Speaking at the programme, Abiodun, represented by his deputy, said Kuku’s accomplishments in medicine and the business world, coupled with his love and commitment to the development of Ijebuland were more than enough to qualify him for the title.

While congratulating the new Ogbeni Oja on this achievement, Abiodun said, “I, however, challenge you to use your good office to foster unity, economic development and educational advancement in

US Committed to Economic Growth, Prosperity of Nigeria, Says Envoy Okon Bassey in Uyo The Consul General of the United States to Nigeria, Mr. Will Stevens, has said his country is committed to the economic growth and prosperity of Nigeria and her sub-nationals, just as he commended the government of Akwa Ibom State for its efforts in handling the scourge of COVID-19, HIV/ AIDS and climate change issues in the state.

Stevens made the assertion during a courtesy call on Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr. Umo Eno at the Government House, Uyo, the state capital, yesterday.

Stevens, who pointed out that Africa would define the future of the world, lauded the governor on the developmental strides currently ongoing in the state.

The US envoy congratulated the governor for emerging victorious at the March 18, 2023, gubernatorial poll, which he described as free, fair, and credible.

He described Akwa Ibom people as inherently happy, reiterating the

call for robust partnership as earlier made by the US Secretary of State, Tony Blinken during his visit to Nigeria last week.

He equally commended the state government for the incredible work done to combat the scourge of COVID-19 and HIV/AIDS, as well as issues around climate change and the extractive industry.

Welcoming the Consul-General, Eno thanked him for finding time to visit the state.

Eno reiterated his government’s readiness to collaborate further with American investors in the areas of oil and gas, blue economy, agriculture, and tourism.

He conducted the Consul General on an inspection of the Model Primary School at the Christ the King School, which is due for inauguration at the end of this month.

The Consul General commended the governor for his vision in education as well as other developmental strides he has recorded since his inauguration eight months ago.

Ijebuland.

“Your accomplishments in the medical world and philanthropic gestures are indicating the positive impacts you are capable of bringing to Ijebuland and Ogun State at large, and we urge you to use your new office to pursue the benefit of all.”

Abiodun said his administration would continue to partner with the traditional rulers and other stakeholders to enhance the prosperity of the residents of the state.

Meanwhile, the Awujale and paramount ruler of Ijebuland

said the selection of Kuku as the 3rd Ogbeni Oja was purely based on merit and his loyalty to the throne of the Awujale from time immemorial.

The Royal father said, “Let no one think that the choice of Olor’oogun Sonny Kuku was influenced by anyone. I did not pick him as the new Ogbeni Oja for any reason other than for being worthy of this highly coveted seat.

“He has proven to be so loyal to the Awujale throne and demonstrated capability for

leadership. I urge him to continue in that trajectory and continue to use his networks worldwide to uplift the socio-economic development of Ijebuland and Ogun State as a whole.”

The monarch also used the medium to urge governors in the South-west to follow the footsteps of the state governor who has assented to the law, which now allows for traditional rulers to be installed and buried according to their religious beliefs “either as Christian or Muslim” and not compulsory traditional way.

He added that he has been “championing for this shift for some years now so that we won’t be discouraging people who have good intentions to serve the people to be running away from Obaship. It is something we need to do that will add value to Obaship institutions.”

The new Ogbeni Oja, while speaking with journalists at the event, said he was honoured to be so chosen by the Awujale for the exalted office, saying that he was ready to re-double his commitment towards further development of Ijebuland.

Gbajabiamila: Nigerians will Begin to Reap Benefits of Petrol Subsidy Removal Soon Says Tinubu working on security challenges Segun James The Chief of Staff to the President, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, has assured Nigerians that benefits of fuel subsidy removal would be reaped soon.

Gbajabiamila gave the assurance after casting his vote yesterday at Poling Unit 014, Ward 08 at Elizabeth Fowler Memorial School, Surulere, Lagos in the House of Representatives’ by-election held in the constituency.

Speaking on the current economic situation being faced by Nigerians, Gbajabiamila said the president and his team remained concerned about the plight of the people.

He, however, noted that it was a universal issue that should be handled with caution.

According to him, “the challenges

we are facing are because some fundamentals were missing in the first place.

“It is those economic fundamentals that this administration is trying to put in place, including fuel subsidy removal, which was a national concession that it must be removed.

“I assure you that the benefits of subsidy removal will be reaped soon. It’s not immediate but the President knows what he is doing, and at the end of the day, everything will work out fine.”

On insecurity, the Chief of Staff said the insecurity in the country is not peculiar to Nigeria alone, expressing optimism that the present administration would tackle the problem head-on.

“The security challenges is not peculiar to Nigeria alone, but we

are confident that necessary steps is been taken to solve the situation,” he said.

Gbajabiamila urged Nigerians to support the president and his administration rather than pointing fingers and making negative criticisms.

He stated that security remained everyone’s concern but assured that the president is deeply concerned.

“This administration needs the full cooperation of the people and in doing so, we will all defeat these kidnappers and terrorists.

“Therefore, we need to come together for the better and by doing so, make Nigeria a great nation that we will all be proud of,” he stated.

Speaking at the by-election, Gbajabiamila said the process had been peaceful and smooth

from the point of accreditation and voting.

He advised the winner to be focused, dedicated and committed to the people of Surulere.

According to him, legislative work comes with a lot of experience and having the people’s interest at heart.

“It may seem difficult at first but once you put your head down, and focus on the people, especially on national issues, success is assured,” he added.

Twelve candidates of different political parties were scrambling for 121,111 votes of registered voters with Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) in the election.

The seat became vacant due to Gbajabiamila’s resignation, having been appointed by President Bola Tinubu as Chief of Staff.

Manage Nigeria’s Diversity for Her Unity, Greatness, Anyaoku Tells Leaders Wale Igbintade Former Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, has urged Nigerian leaders to ensure effective management of the country’s diversity to guarantee its continued unity.

He made the call during the recent inauguration of the Emeka and Bunmi Anyaoku Foundation Centre in his Obosi community, Idemili North Local Government

Area (LGA) of Anambra State.

The centre was inaugurated to mark the 91st birthday celebration of the former Commonwealth scribe.

Addressing the guests, Anyaoku said: “At 80 years, you are considered to have entered the departure lounge.

“Your relatives can only pray that your flight will be delayed well enough, but I’m fortunate to have made 90 and today 91 years. At 91, I have been able to retain all my faculties. They say it is as sharp

as a sword, but I’m not so sure.

“The commissioning of this centre is the fulfillment of a dream which my wife and I have had for a long time. We have always wanted to support education, and by opening this library and museum, we hope that it will help both the old and young to acquire a reading culture.

The attribute of Nigerians that worries me is the absence of reading culture,” he added.

According to him, the museum

is a place where visitors can come and learn about the memorabilia that he and his wife had collected from across the Commonwealth of Nations of 54 countries located in the major continents of the world.

He added that the centre will also parade artifacts from Nigeria, which he described as a pluralistic country that only became one as recently as 1914.

Continued on page 10

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CELEBRATING ANOTHER MILESTONE… L-R: Medical Director, Bridge Clinic, Dr. Toyin Ajayi; Counsellor, Bridge Clinic, Mrs. Etang Abang; Managing Director, Mr. Sunny Ekhalume; Lead Auditor, Quality, Austria, Dr. Peter Sognor; and Quality Specialist, Bridge Clinic, Mrs. Kehinde Arowojolu, at the Bridge Clinic Press Conference on conclusion of the ISO certification held in Lagos… recently ETOP UKUTT

Report: Nigeria May Have Exceeded Renegotiated 1.5 Million Bpd OPEC Oil Output in January Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja There were indications at the weekend that Nigeria may have surpassed its 1.5 million bpd Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) renegotiated quota in its January oil production.

Oil shipping data tracked by Reuters in a survey for the month showed that Nigeria exceeded its January production allocation by 40,000bpd, a development which is expected to be well received by the country, which

has struggled for up to four years to meet its quota.

However, the new quota renegotiated in November last year between OPEC and Nigeria was a major reduction compared to the 1.742 million bpd, which the country failed to meet throughout last year.

The Reuters data aims to track supply to the market and aside from shipping data provided by external sources, also deploys information from companies that track flows - such as Petro-Logistics and Kpler - and

information provided by sources at oil companies, OPEC, and consultants.

In November 2023, OPEC+ handed Nigeria a 2024 oil output target lower than Africa’s largest oil producer had hoped for while lowering Angola’s target.

That action led to the exit of the southern African country.

The slash in Nigeria's quota followed a meeting in June where OPEC+ agreed on a complex deal that revised production targets for several members, after which it tasked three consultancies –

IHS, Rystad Energy, and Wood Mackenzie – with the job of verifying production figures for Nigeria, Angola, and Congo.

However, the Minister of State, Petroleum (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, during the week, told journalists in Abuja that the 1.5 million bpd was not sacrosanct, stressing that negotiations would be restarted if the need for a raise in production output arose.

“Nigeria raised output by 40,000 bpd, the survey found, as some crude was processed in the new Dangote refinery and

FG: We’re Committed to Fixing Poverty, Unemployment Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja The federal government has said it was committed to taking immediate action to tackle poverty and unemployment.

The Minister for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, said this weekend during a meeting with top officials of the ministry in Abuja.

She urged the ministry’s leadership to adopt a private sector-driven approach, emphasising efficiency and productivity in fulfilling the ministry’s objectives.

In a statement issued yesterday by the Special Adviser (Media) to the Minister, Emameh Gabriel,

she said there was a need for a result-oriented approach within the ministry akin to that found in the private sector.

Onyejeocha said the shift was essential to fulfilling the proposed achievements outlined in President Bola Tinubu’s eight-point agenda.

She said: “We need concrete results that demonstrate the effectiveness of our programmes.

Business as usual won’t cut it. We must work as people in the private sector; focused, accountable, and results-oriented. We are currently engaging development partners.”

The minister emphasised the ministry’s crucial role in achieving the President’s agenda, aligning with

six of its eight points.

She said: “At the end of every week, I would like to have the report of every department. I have never been in the last position and I don’t want to find myself there. Everybody will fail when the Ministry of Labour cannot account for the people we took out of the street and employed.

“The ministry is committed to taking immediate action to tackle poverty and unemployment. We will hold the Head of every department accountable for the achievements outlined in the president’s agenda.

“Out of the eight Renewed Hope Agenda, Labour is concerned with six. We have a serious task

to accomplish. So, we need to work hard on our template. I am passionate about reducing poverty in Nigeria because our position is directed to humanity.

“Nigerians are tired of conferences; words alone are not enough. What we need now is results, and Nigerians need to see employment and empowerment.

“I am no longer interested in teaching how to fish. I want to see the fish that have been harvested.

Nigerians should see the fish of those who were taught how to fish. The reduction of poverty in Nigeria is waiting for no date.

So, all work against poverty and unemployment starts now.”

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has fixed N4,699,000 and N4,899, 000 as fares for the 2024 Hajj exercise for intending pilgrims travelling from the northern and southern parts of the country, respectively.

The commission had earlier in October, pegged the initial fare deposit at N4.5 million, noting that the fixed amount was “in tandem with the dollar rate that will determine the final cost of the coming Hajj, stressing that the amount would give the commission a more realistic figure in bargaining for the cost of accommodation, airline fares, feeding, and other necessities.

However, in a statement signed

by NAHCON’s Assistant Director of Public Affairs, Fatima Usara, yesterday, the commission said it had made efforts to maintain

the fares at N4.5 million, but had to make adjustments because of “the recent instability in the dollar exchange rate.”

Usara added that while the Chairman of the commission, Jalal Arabi, had negotiated prices with service providers in Saudi Arabia, the currency situation in the past week necessitated the adjustments, stating that the fares would have reached up to N6 million otherwise “It would be recalled that the Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Malam Jalal Ahmad Arabi had initially aimed to maintain the 2024 Hajj fare at N4.5 million that was charged as an initial deposit. The prospects had remained high until the wellknown Naira crash that occurred mid-week.

“Regrettably, the recent instability in the dollar exchange rate compelled a necessary

adjustment despite commendable efforts by NAHCON Chairman, Jalal Ahmad Arabi to maintain the cost of the year’s Hajj at the said rate.

“Arabi had actively negotiated substantial discounts with service providers in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in late January, striving to alleviate costs for intending pilgrims. However, the volatile currency situation within the week necessitated the commission to take a drastic decision to consolidate the gains achieved in lowering the cost of services for the Hajj, without which the price of the 2024 Muslim pilgrimage might have shot to about N6,000,000,” the statement partly read.

Consequently, the commission has now pegged fares for intending pilgrims from Nigeria’s Southern centre at N4,899,000; those from the Northern centre will pay N4,699,000; while pilgrims from

increased output from non-OPEC countries such as Brazil and the United States.

In January, the biggest decline came from Libya, one of the OPEC members not required to restrain output, after unrest prompted the shutdown of the Sharara oilfield, one of the country's largest.

Some OPEC members pledged voluntary cuts in two rounds - in April 2023 and November 2023, and Saudi Arabia made an additional voluntary cut, the report stated.

Iraq and Kuwait each cut output by 140,000 bpd as part of the new round of voluntary cuts, although Iraqi output remained 141,000 bpd above the country's self-declared target for the first quarter.

The next-largest cut came from Iran, also exempt from quotas, which lowered exports, the survey found. Iran is still pumping near a five-year high reached in November after posting one of OPEC's biggest output increases in 2023 despite US sanctions still being in place, according to the survey. Algeria cut output by 40,000 bpd, implementing most of its voluntary reductions.

MANAGE NIGERIA’S DIVERSITY FOR HER UNITY, GREATNESS, ANYAOKU TELLS LEADERS

Anyaoku stated that before 1914, the place called Nigeria existed in different tribal groups that lived their own lives in different parts of the country.

Yola and Maiduguri centres will “I believe that one of the major pay a fee of N4,679,000 for the issues that this centre will be 2024 Hajj exercise. promoting is the management of Intending pilgrims have now diversity in a pluralistic country. been advised to pay or balance Some countries have succeeded their Hajj fares by Monday, in managing their pluralistic February 12, 2024, to enable the nature. Switzerland for example commission to transfer the funds is a country of four major ethnic before the imminent deadline. groups, Canada with two major According to the statement, ethnic groups, and India, with seven Arabi stated that “this is the will ethnic groups. These countries of Allah, because the commission, have succeeded because they facing a tight deadline of February have deliberately addressed the 25, has limited time to explore challenges of how to manage further options to remain within diversity in their country. the range of N4.5 million.”

“But some pluralistic countries NAHCON however assured that were not able to manage their the public of its commitment to diversity have failed. Like Yugoslavia, ensuring a smooth and successful which ended up breaking into eight Hajj pilgrimage for all participants, states. Take Czechoslovakia, a country despite the challenges posed by of two major ethnic groups, the foreign exchange factors, while Slovaks and the Czechs, but they appreciating the understanding could not manage their diversity, and cooperation of the Nigerian so they peacefully decided to part.

Muslim community during these “I hope that this centre will be a times. hub of collaboration with universities,

NAHCON Fixes 2024 Hajj Fare at N4.9m Michael Olugbode in Abuja

exports held largely steady.

Output was 40,000 bpd above the country’s 2024 target,” the report stated.

In January, OPEC reported that Nigeria’s December production, according to secondary sources, was 1.418 million bpd, an increase of 100,000 bpd when compared with the previous month, according to THISDAY checks.

The report showed that output in January was 214,000 bpd above the implied OPEC target, largely because Iraq, Nigeria, and Gabon are pumping more than their targets.

However, overall, OPEC oil output in January registered the biggest monthly drop since July, as several members implemented new voluntary production cuts agreed with the wider OPEC+ alliance and unrest curbed Libyan output.

The organisation pumped 26.33 million bpd during the month under consideration, down 410,000 bpd from December.

December's total stripped out Angola, which has left OPEC. The latest general decline marked a further drop in market share for OPEC, which began curbing output in late 2022, to support the market and counter

schools, and institutes to promote studies in various areas, and it has enough materials to help leaders address the challenges posed by our diversity,” Anyaoku said.

Speaking about the reason for locating the centre in Obosi, and how it was funded, Anyaoku said: “All my savings and gratuity of 34 years at the Commonwealth were plowed into this foundation. We are hoping that in the future, the foundation will have funds to sustain it and also its activities.”

Anambra State Governor, Prof.

Chukwuma Soludo, who performed the inauguration, praised Anyaoku for giving back to society, saying that he remains a man worthy of emulation.

He promised to back the Anyaoku Foundation Centre through an endowment fund and described Anyaoku as one who has lived a life of impact, dedicated to public service and humanity.

He stressed the importance of acknowledging and celebrating heroes during their lifetime and applauding their contributions to humanity.

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TALENTHUNT… L-R:Head,HumanResources,WestAfrica,MultiChoice,OritsetsolaOmatseye;ExecutiveHeadofContentandChannels,WestAfrica,MultiChoice,BusolaTejumola;2024MTFAcademyEntrant,WinnerAchimugu;ChiefExecutiveOfficer,WestAfrica, MultiChoice,JohnUgbe;andAcademyDirector,WestAfrica,MultiChoiceTalentFactory,AtinukeBabatunde,attheWelcomeSessiontokickoffthe2024ClassattheMultiChoiceTalentFactoryinLagos…recently

All Treasury Looters in PDP Have Defected to APC, Sule Lamido Alleges Chuks Okocha in Abuja Former Governor of Jigawa State, Mr. Sule Lamido, has called on Nigerians to choose the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 2027, just as he alleged that all the treasury looters in the party have defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

He explained that the PDP, which he described as “a saintly evil” is better than “a devilish APC.” The former foreign affairs minister called on Nigerians to either choose the PDP or remain in their current hellish situation.

Speaking on ARISE News on Friday night, Lamido called the decision a “choice between two evils.”

According to the former governor, “You have to look at the character of the Nigerian people.

To me, all the bad eggs in PDP are out. They have defected to APC, leaving honest individuals like me in PDP.

“What we have now are the genuine honest and compassionate PDP people. Most of the people in the APC were all in the PDP and they are gone now and what we have now are the genuine, purer people who believe in Nigeria and are very sincere and who, no matter what, will stay in Nigeria and the PDP,” he added.

The former minister of foreign affairs said: “I think the choice is very narrow. You either join the PDP or you remain in your own hell. You see no matter how you analyse, what we have stolen, how dirty we are, we are better evil than the APC. Therefore, the choice of Nigerians is two evils; a very dangerous evil, which is the APC, and maybe a very saintly evil, the PDP. “I was vilified, humiliated, and called a devil. I went through all kinds of agony simply because I was trying to tell Nigerians about the APC and now, they are in power and they are saying

Bandits Abduct 55 Persons Escorting Bride to Her Matrimonial Home in Katsina Terrorists on Thursday night soured a marriage ceremony when they abducted the bride and about 54 women escorting her to her matrimonial home in Dandume Local Government Area of Katsina State.

The women, according to Premium Times, were returning home to Dandume with the bride, from Ungwar Murjiya in Sabuwa Local Government Area, an area vulnerable to attacks, when the entourage was ambushed around Gamji by the terrorists.

In the incident that occurred around 8:30 p.m., the truck conductor, a man, was shot and is now receiving treatment in a medical facility in Damari.

“Yes, the incident occurred in Sabuwa Local Government Area but some of the victims are

from my area (Dandume). They went to Sabuwa for a wedding and returned late around 9 p.m.

“I am on the road to Dandume now, I will let you know when I get more details of the attack. I have been informed that some of them have escaped so I need to be there to get the correct information. The truck conductor was shot in the hand and is receiving treatment in a hospital,” the Dandume Local Government Chairman, Bashiru Musa, told a Vanguard reporter in Katsina on Friday.

The local government boss said he was not sure of the exact number of those abducted.

However, a resident of Damari, who only gave his name as Ibrahim, said the truck was conveying more than 50 women.

what?” he queried.

Lamido insisted that the bad eggs that filled up the PDP have now defected to the APC. He added that it is sad that the unifying factor among Nigerians currently is hardship.

He said: “I always say this: Nigeria is a country so blessed and well-endowed by God with

the human population, which is a huge asset. But then, somehow, there is something missing in us. In the last eight years of APC government, we have been through hell and we have been overwhelmed and are now being pushed to the extreme. Now both the rich and poor men are all

crying.

“For the first time, we have a common factor uniting us, which is hardship. Something has to be done urgently. We have come to the end of our patience; our tolerance and we cannot even absorb anything again. We cannot take any further hardship.

“When you come to the end

of the road, what else do you do? For how long will we keep relying on godfatherism? Our leaders should be able to know that the country they are leading, there are no safe holes anymore.

“They are not safe; nobody is safe. Today, we have turned human beings into items of merchandising,” he added.

Kidnappers Place N100 Milion Ransom on Murdered Kwara Monarch’s Wife, One Other The Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, on Saturday in Ijebu-Ode installed accomplished physician and co-founder of EKO Hospital, Dr. Sonny Kuku, as the Ogbeni Oja of Ijebuland.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the installation ceremony was also

held alongside a celebration of Kuku’s 80th birthday.

The endocrinologist who is Pro-Chancellor of University of Benin succeeded his late uncle and lawyer, Chief Bayo Kuku, who was the third Ogbeni Oja of Ijebuland and died in 2015.

Speaking during the event, Gov. Dapo Abiodun of Ogun said

the sterling accomplishments of Kuku were more than enough to qualify him for the prestigious office. ”These are coupled with his love for and commitment to the development of Ijebuland.”

While congratulating the new Ogbeni Oja on this lofty achievement, Abiodun challenged

him to use his office to foster unity, and ensure economic development and educational advancement in Ijebuland.

“Your accomplishments in the medical world and philanthropic gestures are indications of the positive impact you are capable of bringing to Ijebuland and Ogun at large.”

ICAN Pays Glowing Tribute to Ijewere, Recalls His Extraordinary Services Dike Onwuamaeze The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) has paid a special tribute to its 32nd President, the late Mr. Emmanuel Itoya Ijewere, in recognition of his extraordinary services as an individual who devoted his life in service to the institute, Nigeria and humanity.

The tribute was delivered by the 59th President of ICAN, Dr. Innocent Iweka Okwuosa, during a

special council meeting in honour of Ijewere, at the council chamber of the ICAN’s secretariat, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Okwuosa said: “Today, we come together with heavy hearts, yet with profound respect and gratitude, to pay tribute to a luminary, a mentor, and a trailblazer within the distinguished history of our esteemed ICAN. “The passing of our revered 32nd President, Mr. Emmanuel Itoya Ijewere (FCA), (MB000916),

has undeniably left an indelible void within our hearts.

“Our gathering not only allows us to bid a final farewell to him, as an individual who devoted his life in service to the institute, but also provides an opportunity to reflect on his extraordinary legacy—an enduring legacy marked by unwavering dedication, exemplary leadership, profoundly compassionate and an unyielding commitment to the ideals and progress of our

esteemed institute.

“While we mourn this irreplaceable loss, we find solace in the exemplary life and remarkable achievements of Ijewere.

“He was unquestionably a symbol of greatness, a beacon of hope, and a visionary leader whose dedication, resilience, and steadfast belief in the potential of our institute served as an exemplar of excellence, leaving an indelible mark on our collective consciousness and the very fabric of our professional identity.

Stop Denigrating Us Publicly, PTD Chides NUPENG’s Scribe, Olawale Peter Uzoho The Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD) Branch of NUPENG has taken a swipe at the General Secretary of the union, Afolabi Olawale, for calling its members “public goats”.

Afolabi had reportedly, during an interview that he granted a national television

a few weeks ago, categorised the PTD members as public goats.

National Chairman of PTD and his deputy, Comrade Lucky Osesua and Comrade Dayyabu Garga, in a jointly signed press statement, said on Tuesday that incessant use of derogatory phrases and words against their members at Unit, Zonal, and National

levels was a reflection of failed leadership, arrogance, and lack of men of honour at the helms of the union’s affairs.

The PTD national leaders also demanded a retraction of the offensive words by the General Secretary, stressing that failure to do so would further strip him of any honour.

The leaders also stated that

as man of honour and for the place of history, he needed to make the necessary amends in the interest of the union.

“It was a total display of shame to see Afolabi Olawale, the General Secretary of a Union like NUPENG, describe those he claimed to have organized in the informal sector of the union, as public goats.

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MINISTERIAL BRIEFING… L-R: Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Steel Development, Dr. Mary Ogbe; Minister of Steel Development, Mr. Abubakar Audu; and Director of Steel, Dr. Umar Adamu, during the minister’s media parley/interactive session with newsmen in Abuja…recently

Edo PDP Primary: Makinde Rejects Appointment as Ward Congress Committee Chair, Aspirants Reject Electoral Officers Segun James The scheduled ward congresses to pick the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, have run into critical headwinds following the decision by Governor Seyi Makinde to reject his appointment as the chairman of the Ward Congress Committee.

A report by GWG cited a letter by Makinde to the National Working Committee (NWC) wherein he predicated his decision on

late information about his appointment.

He also reportedly expressed concerns over the adulteration of the list of electoral officers that has been obviously populated by government officials from Edo and Delta states.

He particularly cited the appointment of the Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly as the electoral officer for his local government.

The other headwind, amid concerns over Makinde’s rejection of the party as-

Obasanjo, Others Call for Strong Economic Ties Between Nigeria, Angola Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has called for increased bilateral relations between Nigeria and Angola.

Obasanjo made the call at the Angola-Nigeria DiplomaticBusiness Investment meeting on Saturday in Lagos.

Obasanjo, who was a special guest of honour at the event, said the meeting focused on the potential for enhanced collaboration between the two countries.

According to him, the meeting also emphasises the need to boost trade volume within Africa, which reflects a commitment to advancing economic partnerships on the continent.

Obasanjo advised that attention should be on African countries’ benefits from their own products, as it aligns to promote intraAfrican trade and economic self-sufficiency.

He expressed concerns about infrastructural deficits, particularly in transportation and highlighted the challenges that needed to be addressed to facilitate seamless trade between nations.

“We are still battling with the high deficit in transportation.

For instance, moving goods from two countries; Congo DR and Congo Brazzaville is still a problem. We need to solve this challenge of moving goods around.

“One of the things the leaders of the post-independence achieved is to promote the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AFCFTA),” he said.

Also, the Secretary, the National Action Committee of AFCFTA, Nigeria, Mr Olusegun Awolowo, said the lack of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) between Nigeria and Angola underscored the untapped potential for economic engagement between the two largest oil exporters in Africa.

“Sadly, there is no Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) between Nigeria and Angola.

This means trade between the two biggest oil exporters is zero, and this is not good enough.

“Angola is importing from the rest of the world what it can actually get from Nigeria and Nigeria doing likewise, we should trade between ourselves.

signment, was the protest by nine of the ten governorship aspirants against the adulteration of the list of electoral officers.

In a strongly-worded letter to the NWC, the aspirants expressed outrage and opposition to the lists of electoral officials with government officials.

The petition by the aspirants was signed by

Philip Shaibu, Omoregie Ogbeide-Ihama, Anslem Ojezua and Felix Akhabue.

Others who signed the petition were Martin Uhomibhi, Hajia Hadizat Umoru, Ms. Omosede Igbinedion, Dr. Osaro Oaiwu and Arthure Esene.

Mr. Asue Ighodalo did not, understandably, sign the petition.

In rejecting his appoint-

ment, Governor Makinde said he was only informed on Friday, February 2, 2024 of his appointment for the conduct of the ward congresses that were scheduled to commence between February 3 and 4 of 2024.

He said that he had already scheduled activities for those days and the late information of his appointment prevented him from rescheduling his

activities.

“Our great party is known for conducting very transparent primaries including presidential primaries. This, in my opinion, should be the benchmark for the NWC’s conduct of elections ad associated activities across the board,” Makinde said in rejecting the appointment to chair the Edo ward congresses committee.

Community Sends SOS Sanwo-Olu, IGP over Attacks by Land Grabbers Residents of Ilameja community in Ibeju-Lekki Local Government Area of Lagos State have called on Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the Inspector General of Police, Mr Kayode Egbetokun, to take urgent steps against alleged attacks by land grabbers on the community.

The residents, who made the call at a news conference on Saturday in Lagos, said the persistent attacks on the community had left them with sad tales.

A resident, Mr Tunji Balogun, said that constant attacks by land

grabbers had brought pains and sorrow to many residents.

Balogun, also the Project Director of Social Justice and Human Rights Group, a non-governmental organisation, called on the state government and security agencies to act without delay, to protect lives in the community.

“We are calling on Gov. SanwoOlu and IGP Egbetokun and other security agencies to deliver us from these attacks by land grabbers.

“Government should swiftly intervene to halt these constant attacks on our people, willful destruction of properties, force-

ful encroachment by these land grabbers.

“We are law-abiding and responsible people, we do not want a situation where the matter will result in clashes in the community”, he said.

Balogun alleged that the land grabbers always attacked people working on building sites, saying many had been hospitalised owing to the injuries sustained.

“We have so many cases of injured victims and the case of late Sodiq Kolapo, an innocent bricklayer who was shot

while working as a labourer on a building site. He was not only killed, his his body was taken away by the land grabbers.

“Other victims like Samusideen Oluwo and Sunday Olabayo, are still nursing injuries sustained during attacks on site.

“We want Gov. Sanwo-Olu to urgently come to our rescue before the situation becomes worse,” he said.

Mrs Joke Kolapo, the widow of the late bricklayer, said things had been difficult for her and the children since her husband was killed.

22 Suspects Arrested over Murder of Police Inspector, Cult Activities in Akwa Ibom Okon Bassey in Uyo The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested 22 Suspects in connection with the Murder of one Inspector Usang Egbe and for cult-related activities in the State.

The command in a statement yesterday said the arrests were made between the 31st of January and the 2nd of February 2024.

“For the avoidance of doubt, the Command will intensify its onslaught against criminal elements in the State and wishes to inform Akwa Ibomites that

perpetrators of heinous crimes will be brought to book.”

Also, it said relying on credible intelligence, Anti- Cultism Unit of the Command arrested one Emem Ime Friday, alias BARRACKS, a serial murderer from Mbiaso village in Oruk Anam LGA who masterminded the Inen Clan Cult War. “In 2022, he orchestrated the gruesome murder of Inen Clan Youth President, one Hezekiah Adaidem, beheaded him and severed his manhood and then fled to Rivers State. While in 2020, he allegedly murdered Ufot Unwana on August 8,

Udeme Unwucha and Okon Ubok Udom on 16th September.

“Other victims on 24th November were Ntiedo Sambo, Eferemfon James and Gilbert Akpan.

The command said on 22/1/2024 at about 5:15 pm, following actionable intelligence, operatives of Ika Division arrested one Emmanuel Francis Daniel ‘m’ aged 33yrs of Otomo village in Ika L.G.A., for killing one Emmanuel Jimmy Udoh ‘m’ aged about 58 years of Nket Abak village in Ukanafun L.G.A., the pastor of Jesus

Power Ministry in Ikot Esu village in Ika L.G.A of Akwa Ibom State.

“The suspect together with others now at large, shot the pastor to death in the church.

Efforts are on to arrest other fleeing suspects.”

Similarly, the statement stated that on 23/1/2023, one Happiness Isaiah Ekanem ‘f’ and 3 others of Ikono L.G.A., who conspired and killed one Imo Isaiah Ekanem ‘m’ aged 32years of the same address by beating him to death and secretly buried the corpse have been arrested and investigation ongoing.

T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R FEBRUARY 4, 2024

15

NEW

CONJUGAL BLISS… L-R: Mother of the groom, Mrs. Ochee Bamgboye; mother of the bride, Mrs. Nkechi Ayogu-Eze; Groom, Bamgboye Bedemi; Bride, Lata Ayogu-Eze and Father of the bride, Senator Ayogu-Eze, during the traditional marriage ceremony of their children in Abuja…yesterday KINGSLEYADEBOYE

Bandits Abduct 55 Persons Escorting Bride to Her Matrimonial Home in Katsina Terrorists on Thursday night soured a marriage ceremony when they abducted the bride and about 54 women escorting her to her matrimonial home in Dandume Local Government Area of Katsina State.

The women, according to Premium Times, were returning home to Dandume with the bride, from Ungwar Murjiya in Sabuwa Local Government Area, an area vulnerable to attacks, when the entourage was ambushed around Gamji by the terrorists.

In the incident that occurred around 8:30 p.m., the truck conductor, a man, was shot and is now receiving treatment in a medical facility in Damari.

“Yes, the incident occurred in Sabuwa Local Government Area but some of the victims are from my area (Dandume).

They went to Sabuwa for a wedding and returned late around 9 p.m.

“I am on the road to Dandume now, I will let you know when I get more details of the attack. I have been informed

that some of them have escaped so I need to be there to get the correct information. The truck conductor was shot in the hand and is receiving treatment in a hospital,” the Dandume Local Government Chairman, Bashiru Musa, told a Vanguard reporter in Katsina on Friday.

The local government boss said he was not sure of the exact number of those abducted. However, a resident of Damari, who only gave his

name as Ibrahim, said the truck was conveying more than 50 women.

“Some of the women have escaped but 53 of them, including the bride that was brought from Sabuwa, have been abducted by the terrorists.

Those who escaped were lucky because the terrorists opened fire on the truck,” he said. Ibrahim said the driver was among those who escaped by running into the bush.

While the bride, her maids and other family members were being abducted, another set of terrorists launched an attack on the outskirts of Damari in Sabuwa Local Government Area.

Abdulrauf Ghali, a resident of Damari, said three vigilante members were killed by terrorists while they were on a routine operation.

Those killed were Magaji Gamji, Dan Taura and Jamilu Badamasi, all members of a

vigilante group in the area.

“They were courageous residents of this community who took it upon themselves to protect us,” Ghali said.

The police spokesperson in Katsina State, Abubakar-6Sadik Aliyu, did not respond to an SMS and a WhatsApp message sent to him over the two attacks.

Residents of the north-western part of Nigeria have witnessed a series of terrorist activities for at least a decade.

2025 Guber Election: Only APC Can Fully

8,350 Private Candidates sit for Develop Anambra, Says Paul Chukwuma WAEC’s Maiden CBT Nationwide The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) said on Saturday that its maiden Computer Based Test (CBT) for WASSCE first series, for private candidates, would eliminate the major source of examination malpractice.

The council’s Head of National Office (HNO) Dr Amos Josiah Dangut stated this while monitoring the examination in some centres in Lagos.

Recall that the council had stated its readiness to conduct

the maiden edition of the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE ) first series for private candidates, using the CBT platform.

The examination commenced on Jan. 31 and would be concluded on Feb. 17.

Dangut said that prior to the introduction of the CBT, the contents of the examination were usually let out before the test through some mischief makers who might have a role to play during the examination.

Inmates Win Brand New Laptop, Coding Book as AYIITI, Anchor Heritage Train 20 in Computer Programming Two inmates at Kirikiri Medium Custodial Centre, Lagos State, yesterday, won a brand new laptop and coding book as Access for Youths to Information Technology Initiative (AYIITI) and Anchor Heritage Initiative have partnered the custodial centre to train 20 of them in computer programming.

The brand new laptop and coding book were won after a coding competition organised for the inmates during their graduation ceremony which was held at the custodial centre.

In attendance were the Controller of Corrections, Lagos State

Command, Ben-Rabbi Freedman, CC Ben-Robbi Freedman, Deputy Controller of Corrections (DCC), Kirikiri Medium Custodial Centre, DCC Michael Anugwa and other personalities.

In his address, Freedman expressed delight at the occasion and appreciated the partners for the training.

He said the custodial centre had secured approval from the National Open University of Nigeria to award Diploma certificates in various fields to inmates after being trained by the University.

The CC charged the trainees to put whatever they have learnt into practice.

Reveals intention to contest

David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka A former National Auditor of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Mr Paul Chukwuma has revealed that he will contest the Anambra governorship election next year.

Chukwuma who is also the Pro-Chancellor of Olivia University, Burundi, said he is now convinced that the underdevelopment in Anambra was because of the inability of the state to connect to the centre by joining the APC. In a press chat with journalists in his country home in Umueri, Anambra East Local Government Area on Saturday, Chukwuma

said only an APC governor can develop Anambra State, under an APC-led federal government.

He argued that there were advantages of having a governor from the APC in the current regime, as there are many decision-making gatherings that governors that are not of APC stock may not be aware of, including Anambra governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo who is of All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).

He said: “Go and look at the two states in the South East that are being governed by APC; Ebonyi and Imo, and compare them with other states that are

governed by other political parties, and you will see the difference.

“In Ebonyi, the past and present governors have used the platform to attract the goodwill of the federal government, and if you go there, you will see the quality of their projects.

“Go to Imo, you will see massive projects there. As I speak to you now, Orashi River is being dredged, courtesy of the federal government.

Hope Uzodinma has used the opportunity of his closeness to the federal government to attract projects. Right now, the Federal University of Technology

(FUTO) is being turned into a full conventional university. They are building a teaching hospital there now.

“What Governor Hope Uzodinma is doing there, we have never seen it here. Those who are criticizing Hope are just doing so to get at him, not because he is not performing.

“Coming to Anambra, all the erosion sites we have everywhere here, we can not tackle it. We need federal government funds to be able to do so. That is why I’m saying that the problem is not with those who are governors today, but the party they come from.”

Lawyers Seek Re-opening of Court Premises in Osun Some lawyers in Osun have decried the protracted strike by judiciary workers, which has resulted in the closure of courtrooms in the state since Nov. 22, 2023.

In a separate interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Osogbo, the lawyers called on the executives of the Judiciary Saff Union (JUSUN) in the state to immediately suspend their strike in the interest of litigants and suspects in custody.

JUSUN in Osun had embarked on strike following allegations against

Justice Adepele Ojo, the Chief Judge, of the state, who was accused of indiscriminate suspension of workers, and failure to pay workers wardrobe allowances, among other complaints Prof. Wasiu Oyedokun-Alli, a lawyer and Executive Director of the Osun Masterminds, said the internal politics of JUSUN was not the immediate concern, but the continued closure of the courts due to a strike action declared by the union. ” It is mindless and antithetical to

the maintenance of law and order as well as speedy dispensation of justice in the State.

Oyedokun-Alli said his group had been clamouring for the reopening of court premises and would not hesitate to drag gladiators in the judicial battle in the state before competent courts in the land if the strike persists further. ” We advise that all concerned act now with utmost responsibility and respect for the oath they all swore. ” More importantly, there are

innocent people awaiting trial who have been left to languish in prison because some people are using their lives to settle scores,” he said.

Also, Mr Jimmy Jones, said that the continued closure of the court premises amounts to a denial of speedy trials of some cases needing urgent attention.

Jones said that most police cells in the state were now overcrowded with many suspected criminals due to the strike embarked upon

by JUSUN.

16

THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER )(%58$5< , 2024

PERSPECTIVE

Jimoh, Frontrunner in Ondo $3& ,QWHQVLÀHV 0RELOLVDWLRQ Adegoke Folusho

H

is campaign train is electrifying.

Onboardarecorepartyloyalists, trustedfollowers,youths,women and men of goodwill dedicated to the continuation of good governance in post-Akeredolu era.

There is a debate going on in Ondo State. The question is who can lead the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to victory during the November governorship election?

As his campaign train rolled into Ondo Central, eminent businessman and senator representing Ondo South, Jimoh Ibrahim, reassured the people that Ondo State will be safe in his hands, if elected asgovernor.“Iamherewithamessageofhope,that our beloved state, with its abundant potential, will witness growth and development across sectors through prudent management,” he said in Ondo, the second largest town in the Central District.

To many party chieftains, Ibrahim is a promising candidate embodying essential qualities for visionaryleadership.“Hiscapabilityisunderscored by an impressive academic background, diverse business ventures, and impactful infrastructure investments. Trustworthiness is evident in his successful business dealings and commitment to governmental responsibilities,” said Prince Segun Oluyede, a member of the campaign group,’ Aseyori Leekansi.’

Oluyede added: “compassion shines through his genuine concern for the downtrodden, demonstrated in philanthropic initiatives, legislative efforts, and transformative projects.”

Since the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) blew the whistle, Ibrahim has hit the ground running. He has intensified consultations and mobilisation, visiting the 18 local government areas.Theaspirantisnowontourofthe203wards.

Sincecharitybeginsfromhome,hekickedofffrom hisnativeOndoSouth,hisbase.Thegeneralfeeling inthepartyisthatthegovernorshipticketwouldbe zoned to the South in the spirit of equity, fairness and justice.

In those wards he visited, he was taken seriously asanexperiencedpoliticianandcompetentadministrator, who will not disappoint the people. While

ibrahim traversingOndoCentral,hegaveassurancesafter collatingtheinfrastructuralchallengesconfronting the towns and villages. As a household name, he needed no introduction. He was at home with the rich and the poor, who assured him of support.

Next week, Ibrahim is expected to tour Ondo North.But,hehadevenstormedthedistrictduring the week on a sort of rescue mission when he held reconciliationmeetingwithaggrievedpartyleaders in Akoko axis so that they would be on the same pageaheadoftheby-electioninAkokoNorth/East Federal Constituency. Thousands of supporters came out in the South and Central to receive him and partake from the palliatives given out by his campaign team. As he doled out the palliatives, he promised to do more. The party faithful cheered and hailed him.

The primary is scheduled for April, two months fromnow.Nofewerthan10aspirantshaveindicated

interest. Majority are from the South. Is it not too early for Ibrahim to visit the local chapters of the party? He said it is not too early, adding that the people, particularly the grassroots, who are core electors, needtoknowthecandidates. Thesenator saidhewouldnotminddoingitagainbecauseofthe high regard he has for the generality of the people.

Is he not worried that his opponents may later do this towards the primary and thus rubbish all that he would have done? He says he would always be ahead of his opponents.

He described himself as the most experienced contenderwithapedigreethatcannotbematched by other aspirants. What exactly is propelling him, having sought the exalted office twice, in 2003 and 2016? Ibrahim says the development of Ondo State is his major priority. He pointed out that the Sunshine State is blessed with human and natural resources,stressingthatitshouldoneoftheleading states in the country. “l want to harness the rich endowmentsofthestatetotransformitandmake it self- sustaining. He says he wants to turn it into an investment haven.

Ibrahim.isreachingoutdirectlytoAPCmembers andsellinghimselfasonewhocanturnthefortunes of the state around.

In 2003, at 37, Ibrahim was on the firing line as governorship candidate on the platform of the defunct All Nigeria People’s Party (ANPP). At that time, none of his rivals today were in the picture.

His second attempt came in 2016 on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Ibrahim’s leadership capability stems from his intellectual prowess. At 57, he holds nine degrees from highly reputable institutions, including Obafemi Awolowo University Ile-Ife (LLB, MPA), the University of Oxford, and Harvard (LLM/IT).

He holds a Ph.D. in Business from Cambridge University (DBA).

Hisacademicachievementsarecomplemented by his feats in the world of business. The scope encompasses banking, insurance, oil and gas, real estate, hospitality, and aviation, showcased by ventures like Global Fleet Group and NICON Luxury Hotel.

He demonstrated reliability by assisting the Nigerian government in recovering unpaid withholding tax from major international oil firms, successfullyimplementingtheplanandrecovering

billions of dollars.

Ibrahim has shown compassion for the downtrodden by sustaining and motivating community membersthroughphilanthropicendeavors.Heisthe toastofhisconstituents,whohehasoftenassisted financially. Recently, he distributed N300,000 to 130 constituents. The financial relief provided a significant boost in a challenging economic environment.

Hehasnotalsoneglectedthepeoplewithdisabilities.Thesenatorpledgedtodistributeonehundred wheelchairs and a minimum of a N100,000 to 200 physically challenged individuals in Ondo South.

He also intends to duplicate the empowerment initiatives in the Ondo North and Central. He has much to show as a federal legislator who has not gone to Abuja to merely warm his legislative seat.

Ibrahim, in his eight months in the Senate, has displayed commitment to his constituency, state andcountry.Hesponsoredbillsforneweducational institutions,proposedamendments,andtheestablishmentoftheBitumenDevelopmentCommission.

The Senator initiated some laudable projects, including the rehabilitation of Igbotako road (25.9 km, general maintenance), an asphalt overlay and maintenance of 500 meters in Igbotako; and road construction and asphalt overlay of Odogun (36 meters in length and 7.5 meters in width).

He has also installed 410 solar lights in Ilutitun, Igbotako, Iju-Oke, Iju-Odo, Oloto Igodan-Lisa, Okitipupa, Erekiti-Luwoye, Araromi-Obu, Abusoro, and Agbetu.

Ibrahim also believes in empowering party faithful. Last month, no fewer than 660 grassroots party leaders received financial assistance.

Over 7,511 individuals, including 27 APC ward executives, and 10 leaders per ward across the 203 wards in Ondo State, also received financial assistance.

The third phase targets the empowerment of 600,000 individuals; 200,000 beneficiaries per senatorial district.

Ibrahim has also enlisted 3,933 unit managers and 203 ward supervisors for extensive outreach.

The goal is to mobilise one million voters, thereby building stronger support for the APC in 2024 and 2027 elections.

Folusho is based in Akure.

)$$1 5HORFDWLRQ 0XFK $GR $ERXW 1RWKLQJ Usman Tafida

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ruth; Nigeria is a patchwork of disparate ethnic nationalities but afterover60yearsoftogetherness as a country, it rankles that rather than fervent nationalism, ethnoreligious loyalty still holds more attraction and strong appeal to most Nigerians.

This can be gleaned from how quickly and effortlessly some ethnic jingoists and ethnic groups in Nigeria could retreat behind ethnic and religious cleavages to champion sectional causes; symptomatic of expanding fault lines as could be seen in the ongoing cacophony of voices of dissent and opposition over federal government’s recent decisiontorelocatethecorporateheadquartersof theFederalAirportsAuthorityofNigeria(FAAN)and some departments of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to Lagos, Nigeria’s capital until 1991.

In saner climes, criticisms or critiques, as the case may be, of government policies and actions are premised on national interest as opposed to narrow parochial provincial sentiment.

Thatthewholegamutofthehullabalooaboutthe return of FAAN to Lagos is colored and inspired by ethnic considerations speaks to the narrow selfinterest of the arrowheads.

They care not what is in the best interest of the countryprovidedtheirparochialinterestsareserved.

IftheopponentsoftheFAANrelocationhaveany veneer of the interest of the country at heart, they would have approached the issue from the prism of what Nigeria stands to gain or lose following the relocation.

And this is the crux of the matter. When the

FAAN buiding, Lagos relocation of FAAN to Lagos is juxtaposed with the financial/ economic implication of the action, itbecomesglaringthatitwasintheeconomicinterest of Nigeria to move it back to Lagos.

Recall that in the first place, FAAN corporate headquarters was in Lagos before the immediate past Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, in what industryexpertsandstakeholdershavedescribed as an ill-advised move, moved it to Abuja in 2020.

ThisrelocationtoAbujawasdonenotwithstanding that over 90 per cent of the FAAN workforce operatedfromLagos.Addedtothiswasthefactthat thebulkofmajorFAANoperationsareinLagos, the

citybeingNigeria’seconomichubandbyextension, an Aviation hub.

With most airline operators having their operational bases in Lagos, what sense - economic and service delivery - did it then make that FAAN as an industry regulator was ensconced in Abuja, far removed from the very actors it was meant to regulate?

NowthatFAANisbackinLagos,thebottlenecks and foggy interface between it and Aviation stakeholders are sure to be eliminated in favor of seamless,floweryregulations.Thisinturnwillmake for efficient service delivery in the industry.

The relocation of FAAN to Lagos will also put an endtotheunnecessaryfinancialdrainonthefederal government. And this how: Before Sirika moved FAANtoAbuja,thebulkofitsstaff,over80percent, operated from Lagos; having been redeployed to Abuja without the adequate arrangement for office accommodations, they operated mainly as out-of-station staff and were being paid hefty out of station or Duty Allowances, DTA. This was because top officials of the Authority flew in and out of Lagos Abuja daily just to have files signed or for official, crucial meetings.

Aviation Minister, Festus Keyamo (SAN), in a recent Channels TV interview, revealed that the awkward situation has so far cost the nation half a billion Naira in Air tickets.

Itwillalsointerestethniccrusadersreelingagainst therelocationtoknowthattopmanagementofFAAN, aviationstakeholders, unions,andAviationworkers, tiredofthezigzagsituationchampionedthereturn of FAAN to Lagos.

ReactionaryelementsblowinghotairoverFAAN’s returntoLagosseemtosuffershortmemory.Their insipid argument that as a federal capital, Abuja shouldhousetheheadquartersofallfederalgovernmentestablishmentsrunscountertoglobalrealities.

They forget that the headquarters of several federalgovernmentestablishmentsarenotinAbuja.

TheseincludeNECO(headquartersinMinna,Niger state), NBTE (headquarters in Kaduna), NDDC (Headquartersin PortHarcourt,RiversState), NRC (headquarters in Lagos) and NIWA (headquarters in Lokoja, Kogi State).

Tafida writes from Kaduna Read full article online - www.thisdaylive.com

THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER )(%58$5<

BUSINESS

17

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

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Sunday 4 February, 2024

T H I S D AY Vol MONDAY MARCH 14, 2022 27. No 10525

OPI NION

opinion@thisdaylive.com

www.thisdaylive.com

FOR PEACE, HARMONY AND SOLIDARITY The UAE is in forefront of promoting human brotherhood and fostering a culture of tolerance, writes SALEM SAEED AL SHAMSI

119

Living in an economy where money is forced out of your pocket by various players is scary and enervating, writes AUSTIN ISIKHUEMEN

THE COLOUR OF A BANDIT ECONOMY

A See Page 20

A DAVID IN GOVERNMENT

JACKSON EKWUGUM reckons Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has demonstrated remarkable leadership qualities

See Page 20

EDITORIAL GUARDING THE FORESTS OF INSECURITY

See Page 45

bandit is a robber or an outlaw belonging to a gang and typically operating in an isolated or lawless area. A typical bandit is usually armed and is ready to kill in other to be obeyed by those he wants to forcefully and illegally profit from. The original bandit, especially from Western movies, covers his face and head with a bandana, carrying guns around and riding horses on his way to, or from, robberies. He breaks into banks and bars in remote areas leaving a pool of blood and shattered skulls and carries away his loot to share with his gang. That was the bandit of yore.

Enter the Nigerian bandit. They came after the civil war ended in 1970. They were called armed robbers and they were a novelty and rare.

The military regimes of the era enacted decrees that made the offence triable by tribunals and punishable by public military execution. The thinking must be that the finality that execution represents and the stigma it would bring to the family of the robber would deter others and put an end to the crime. It did not. There were cases where cars were stolen during executions as happened at the bar beach!

Notorious bandits (called armed robbers) like Ishola Oyenusi, Lawrence Anini, Shina Rambo, Mighty Joe and Godogodo made their eras a time of fear. In Anini’s case in the 1980’s the police became more afraid than the civil populace. This was exacerbated by the Robben Hood style of the gang who broke banks and sprayed the money for passersby and market women to collect while shooting and killing any policeman on site. It got so bad that they shot the Bendel State police commissioner in the nose at Ring Road in Benin City. That era only ended when courageous CSP Uanreroro led by then Commissioner of Police Parry Osayande successfully routed the gang and investigations revealed a police accomplice of the rank of DCP whose support made the gang so deadly efficient.

Banditry, called by any other name, really never stopped but some lulls took their news away from the headlines for some decades. Then the Boko Haram insurgency came and within it grew the banditry that now keeps us awake all night. What is baffling is that BH is weakening while banditry with its twin called kidnapping for ransom is growing in leaps and bounds. It is also claimed by some that illegal gold mining in parts of the country aids and abets this crime. A common feature of this unholy and violent “business” is the extortion of humongous amounts of money in return for the right to life.

The amounts being demanded and paid to banditsandkidnappersare mind-boggling. How a few faceless gang members are able to move those sums around and utilize them in our economy using the banking system despite its numerous safeguards beats one’s imagination.

How are these people able to bypass NIN, BVN and KYC? Would it be wrong to speculate that bandits and kidnappers hold more cash than the vaults of our commercial banks today?

Would it be unthinkable that some of them may be funding POS businesses that we all run to when cash cannot be found in the banks?

Two weeks ago, two young men who visited

home from Italy were kidnapped at Uromi in Edo State. They were asked for a ransom of N40 million. After negotiations, rumours had it that the young men were released only after N22 million was paid! It was also rumoured that the banks were unhelpful in raising the cash and a resort to extensive and expensive POS transactions was the saving grace. Would you blame those young men if they never visit their fatherland again? That was not in the newspapers, of course. So are several others that happen daily across the land.

A cursory glance at our newspapers would reveal that the banditry and kidnapping reported are legion. So are the unreported.

Check the Metro pages of the Punch daily newspaper and you would think we are at war. The situation is worse in the Northwest where a mix of economic, political and ethnic/communal issues come into play.

People and communities already held to ransom by poverty are being held ransom by bandits who extort them, burn their homes and kill them if they are unable to meet the bandits’ demands. The helplessness of the government and the political class speaks volumes.

How come we were able to hold elections and the bandits took a sabbatical till the votes were counted, collated and results announced? Are they in league with some politicians? Were we not even going to conduct a census amid the mayhem? With the monetization of our electoral processes such as the purchase of expression of interest forms, nomination forms and campaign funding that run into billions of naira, is it improbable that a group of bandits can now sponsor a governorship candidate these days? Unthinkable?

What of the other bandits? Those who wield no guns but use pens to rob our commonwealth of billions? They are protected in their bulletproof SUVs and guarded by security agents trained, paid and armed by the taxpayer and with funds from the extraction of our national resources. How are those who said they fed school children with billions of naira during covid19 lockdown different from bandits? What of those paying millions of government funds into private accounts in flagrant disregard of regulations

and the law? And you think you are not a bandit if you collect a mobilization fee running into millions of naira for a road project and abandon same while buying a luxury home in Asokoro with the money?

The bandits include those who help to make the naira value tumble downhill because they have vaults of illegally accumulated dollars which give them arbitrage stranglehold on our collective necks. While the genuine, patriotic security agents put their lives in line fighting this scourge, there must be those among them who profit from the evil enterprise and build their own empires from it. They too are bandits of a different colour.

Are there no bandits today who roam free because judicial bandits in our courts set them free? If you prevent voters from voting because they are likely to vote for your opponent, steal a ballot box and burn the ballots, mutilate election results or read a result different from the one collated, shoot into the air to disrupt collation, please tell me if you are not an electoral bandit.

Have we not seen some potentates muscle out candidates that they do not like, using guns and money, or collect humongous sums from those they know they would force to step down?

Who has not seen scenes in this clime where thugs armed with all sorts of weapons are used to collect revenues leaving some of the payers maimed and most of the funds ending up outside government coffers? Some power suppliers and distributors force you to pay for the power you did not consume! Sounds strange but it happens and you pay under threat of disconnection. Sounds like banditry?

There are aspects of our lives that should make us shudder and take action but repeated occurrences have made most people dead to such events. Living in a bandit economy where money is forced out of your pocket by various players who have become untouchable can be scary and enervating. It is bad for the individual and bad for the economy. Even sports. Can Nigeria apply to host the magnificent AFCON fiesta of the type holding in Abidjan today? Will insecurity foisted by banditry allow us to win the hosting rights?

Isikhuemen, a management consultant, writes from Lagos

20

T H I S D AY SUNDAY FEBRUARY 4, 2024

The UAE is in forefront of promoting human brotherhood and fostering a culture of tolerance, writes SALEM SAEED AL SHAMSI

FOR PEACE, HARMONY AND SOLIDARITY

T

he International Day of Human Fraternity is observed on February 4th each year. It was established by the United Nations General Assembly on December ZLWK UHVROXWLRQ as a way to promote peace, harmony, and solidarity among people of different cultures, religions, and backgrounds. It serves as a reminder of the shared values and common humanity that bind us all together.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Nigeria are two diverse countries that share a commitment to promoting human fraternity and fostering harmonious coexistence among people of different backgrounds.

The UAE has been at the forefront of promoting human brotherhood and fostering a culture of tolerance and coexistence. One significant event that highlights the UAE’s commitment to this cause is the celebration of the International Day of Human Fraternity on February 4.

The International Day of Human Fraternity was established by the United 1DWLRQV *HQHUDO $VVHPEO\ LQ ,W ZDV co-facilitated by the UAE, showcasing the UAE’s active role in promoting this initiative. This annual observance on February 4 aims to promote greater cultural and religious tolerance worldwide. It invites all UN member states and international organizations to participate in events that celebrate human fraternity.

The Document on Human Fraternity for World Peace and Living Together, signed

by Pope Francis and the Grand Imam of $O $]KDU LQ SOD\HG D SLYRWDO UROH LQ establishing the International Day of Human Fraternity. The UAE, under the auspices of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan, the President of the United Arab Emirates, facilitated the signing of this historic document. It emphasizes the principles of compassion, solidarity, and coexistence among different religions and human beings in general.

The UAE’s humanitarian journey is deeply rooted in its cultural values and leadership’s vision. The late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founding father of the UAE, laid the foundation for the nation’s philanthropic endeavors. His legacy is continued by the current leadership, notably exemplified by H.H. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the UAE.

The UAE has consistently demonstrated its commitment to promoting human brotherhood through various initiatives and efforts. Some notable examples include: +LVWRULF 9LVLW RI 3RSH )UDQFLV ,Q Pope Francis visited the UAE, marking the first-ever papal visit to the Arabian Peninsula. During his visit, he met with the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, and together they signed the Document on Human Fraternity. This visit showcased the UAE’s dedication to fostering interfaith dialogue and promoting peace and understanding.

The Abrahamic Family House: It is a beacon for mutual understanding, harmonious coexistence, and peace among people of faith and goodwill. It consists of a mosque, church, synagogue, and educational center, which was built on the Island of Saadiyat and lunched in February WKH FXOWXUDO KHDUW RI $EX 'KDEL LQ WKH United Arab Emirates. Through its design, The Abrahamic Family House captures the values shared between Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, and serves as a powerful platform for inspiring and nurturing understanding and tolerance between people of goodwill.

The vision of the Abrahamic Family House originated after the signing of the Document on Human Fraternity by Pope Francis and Grand Imam Ahmed Al-Tayeb in February 7KLV ODQGPDUN KDV EHFRPH DQ RSHQ center for learning, dialogue, and worship to all, and a true reflection of the UAE’s belief in tolerance and hospitality.

Ministry of Tolerance: The UAE’s Ministry of Tolerance has played a crucial role in spreading the culture of tolerance and coexistence. Through its initiatives, it aims to build peace, harmony, and respect among different nationalities and religions.

The ministry’s efforts have been recognized and praised by various organizations and individuals worldwide.

Human Fraternity Festival: The UAE organizes the Human Fraternity Festival, which takes place from February 4 - 8. This festival serves as a platform for promoting human brotherhood and celebrating diversity through various cultural and educational activities. It brings together people from different backgrounds to foster mutual understanding and respect.

H.E. Al Shamsi is UAE Ambassador to Nigeria

A DAVID IN GOVERNMENT Jackson Ekwugum reckons Delta State Governor, SHERIFF OBOREVWORI, has demonstrated remarkable leadership qualities

A

fter the Supreme Court MXGJPHQW WKDW DIÀUPHG KLV 0DUFK HOHFWRUDO victory, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori stunned the jubilant audience that thronged the church Thanksgiving Service to celebrate his victory when he revealed that he survived a total of 38 pre-election and post-election litigations. You could almost hear some in the audience catch their breath at this shocking disclosure. “No other politician in this country,” Oborevwori continued, “including even Governors that served two terms had to face this number of court cases.” Granted that the Delta governorship stool had never EHHQ VR KRWO\ FRQWHVWHG VLQFH EXW not many knew the extent of the bile that fuelled the dissension as evidenced in the plethora of court cases that greeted Oborevwori’s emergence as PDP’s governorship candidate and subsequent election as Delta State Governor.

In a sense, Oborevwori’s grass to grace story parallels the travails that trailed David’s choice as the next king of Israel after Saul. From the moment the Almighty zeroed His attention on the young shepherd boy as the next monarch, all hell literally broke loose. He faced rejection, persecution, mockery, DQG EHWUD\DOV 7KH ÀUVW RSSRVLWLRQ FDPH from within his family. Even David’s father did not consider him worthy of consideration to be in the line of choice for the kingship and conveniently ignored him until the prophet Samul insisted on him to be brought from the ÀHOG ZKHUH KH ZDV WHQGLQJ VKHHS $W WKH EDWWOHÀHOG WR PDNH VXSSOLHV WR KLV brethren who were arrayed in battle against the Philistines, his eldest brother, Eliab, poured scorn on him.

After his famous slaying of Goliath, King Saul took David under his wings.

But as David’s popularity soared, King Saul turned from being his mentor to his tormentor and deployed every apparatus of state to take him out.

Even the people of Keilah whom David rescued from their Philistine foes while on the run from Saul, were eager to turn him in to ingratiate themselves with Saul. It was the ultimate betrayal.

'DYLG ZDV D IXJLWLYH IRU \HDUV KLGLQJ from the insanely murderous Saul.

Thankfully, he survived all the attempts on his life and eventually ascended the throne upon Saul’s death. There are contradictions as to the actual number of battles David fought during his lifetime, but it is doubtful if any other king compares in that department.

The years in the wilderness, far from being the gloom and doom it portended, became David’s preparation for the throne. It was there he was imbued with the leadership credentials that enabled him to lead the people. He applied the skills he acquired from turning a bunch of broke, busted, and disenchanted followers in the wilderness into an organised, wellRLOHG ÀJKWLQJ PDFKLQH WR DGPLQLVWHULQJ the kingdom of Israel. It was under King 'DYLG WKDW WKH PRQDUFK\ ZDV ÀUPO\ established with proper organization and structure. He ended up being Israel’s greatest king, and became the standard by which successive kings were measured.

That may yet be Governor Oborevwori’s story going by the signs RI KLV ÀUVW VHYHQ PRQWKV LQ RIÀFH

He has demonstrated remarkable leadership qualities of focus, tenacity RI SXUSRVH VDFULÀFH KXPLOLW\ patience, and prudent and judicious allocation of resources. Like David, he has an exciting mix of youth and experience in his cabinet. And like the sweet Psalmist of Israel, Oborevwori also brings a touch of class and excellence to everything he does. :LWKLQ KLV ÀUVW GD\V LQ RIÀFH he completed and commissioned several projects of the immediate past administration. And without fanfare, several road and physical infrastructure projects have been embarked upon across the three senatorial districts of the state. The FRQVWUXFWLRQ RI WKUHH Á\RYHU EULGJHV and cloverleaf interchange in the twin cities of Warri and Effurun may have garnered all the media attention but a lot more are currently ongoing in several communities in the state.

It is not that the Governor is media shy as some are wont to think; it is not just his style to hug the limelight.

A man of few words, he would rather let his work do the talking.

Even more instructive is his welfarist mindset. It is praiseworthy that notwithstanding the distraction of the court cases, the Governor made it his priority to clear the backlog of promotional arrears owed public service workers upon assumption RI RIÀFH 7KH DGPLQLVWUDWLRQ SDLG N5. 5bn to 23,887 workers in the state public service. The Governor DOVR DSSURYHG DQG SDLG 1 EQ as bonus to workers over a period of three months to cushion the impact of the fuel subsidy removal.

He also secured “legislative approval for the local government FRXQFLOV WR REWDLQ D 1 EQ EDQN loan to enable them liquidate their backlog of pension liabilities.” As I write this, he has approved the payment of bursary to students in tertiary institutions.

That is the heart of a man who knows where the shoe pinches.

By the time he is done, Governor Oborevwori shall, indeed, be “the most underrated” that became “the most celebrated,” as his protocol aide, Pastor Tos Powell prophetically stated.

Ekwugum is Manager, Communications, Government House, Asaba

45

T H I S D AY SUNDAY FEBRUARY 4, 2024

EDITORIAL

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

GUARDING THE FORESTS OF INSECURITY

I

T h e g u a r d s , w h e n eve n t u a l l y fo r m e d , s h o u l d s t e m t h e e n d u r i n g a t r o c i t i e s i n t h e c o u n t r y ’s va s t fo r e s t s

n a bid to rout the organised criminal gangs who occupy ungoverned forests and wreak havoc on Nigerians, President Bola Tinubu has hinted of deploying forest guards to stem the rising insecurity. According to the president, the guards will be trained, and armed with modern technological gadgets to combat the deteriorating and festering crime. This is an idea we wholeheartedly endorse. Across the country, criminal gangs are increasingly turning forests and forest reserves as bases to launch attacks on homes, travellers, and schools. The forests have become hideouts for thieves, kidnappers, ritual killers, and cattle rustlers; and camping sites for insurgents.

Ordinarily, forests and forest reserves ought to be accorded special attention, as sanctuaries for endangered plant and animal species.

In the 60s and 70s forestry was a foreign exchange HDUQHU WKURXJK ODUJH VFDOH exportation of timber and wood. But if these were sidelined because of the impact on deforestation and climate change, forestation is still widely used as a bulwark against desert encroachment. Sadly, the reserves have become havens for criminal activities. Almost daily, bandits kidnap, rape, kill and torture victims to pay millions of naira or dollars in ransoms. It is a worrying trend that must be curbed.

In the past week, two traditional rulers, including a retired army General have been killed in their palaces in Ondo and Kwara States by criminal gangs who abducted several people. Unfortunately, such atrocities are being committed daily by terrorists, bandits, and kidnappers who have converted many ungoverned forests across the country for all kinds of atrocities. The notorious Sambisa Forest in Borno 6WDWH D RQFH ÁRXULVKLQJ JDPH UHVHUYH VWLOO VHUYHV DV the stronghold of Boko Haram terrorists where many innocent persons and schoolgirls were killed or held in bondage. As security forces struggle to purge the UHVHUYH DQG RWKHU IRUHVWV LQ WKH QRUWK HDVWHUQ VWDWHV RI Yobe and Adamawa of terrorists, bandits and armed KHUGVPHQ LQYDGH PDQ\ IRUHVW UHVHUYHV LQ WKH 1RUWK West and southern parts of the country, unleashing WHUURU GD\ DQG QLJKW ,Q 'HFHPEHU IRU LQVWDQFH

bandits abducted about 300 pupils of Government Science College, Kankara, Katsina State and reportedly took them into the notorious Dajin Rugu Forest stretching from Birnin Gwari in Kaduna State through Katsina and ending in Zamfara State.

Similarly, many communities in Taraba State came under severe and regular attacks from criminals who occupy their vast forests. Under the guise of herding cattle, they destroy farms, kidnap for ransom, and commit all sorts of atrocities, including the raping of women and girls. Worried by the criminality in his domain, the Emir of Muri, $OKDML $EEDV 1MLGGD 7DÀGD LQ LVVXHG DQ ultimatum to criminal herders to vacate the forests within 30 days. The emir, who is Fulani, said if the herdsmen, whom he LGHQWLÀHG DV QDWLRQDOV of some neighbouring countries refused to heed his warning, they would be killed. Late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State issued similar orders to criminal gangs who had turned some forests LQ KLV VWDWH LQWR NLOOLQJ ÀHOG DQG NLGQDSSLQJ IRU ransoms. Ondo and Taraba were forced to join other states like Benue and Ekiti in banning open grazing of cattle, in order to protect residents of their states from the activities of some herdsmen who hide behind grazing of cattle to perpetrate all kinds of criminality. If the crime was not eliminated, it largely subsided.

But of late the spate of kidnappings for ransom has become frightening. Inordinate killings are rife. The ransoms are increasing daily, demanded in millions. Every Nigerian seems to be living in terror spaces daily, as no time is safe, and no place is sacred. The security agencies are stretched to their limits and overwhelmed.

The current situation where criminal cartel and WHUURULVWV PDQ\ LGHQWLÀHG DV QRQ 1LJHULDQV traverse the length and breadth of the country killing and causing multiple discomfort to innocent citizens cannot be excused or tolerated. The proposed forest guards must be well equipped to combat the crimes LW LV FUHDWHG WR ÀJKW 7KH\ PXVW QHWZRUN ZLWK RWKHU security agencies and collectively rout the criminals in the forests.

The proposed forest guards must be well equipped to combat the crimes it is created to fight. They must network with other security agencies and collectively rout the criminals in the forests 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 THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE

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

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LETTERS

OF MONSTROUS CATHEDRALS AND HUNGRY CONGREGANTS 6RPHWLPH LQ D IULHQG WROG D VWRU\ RI how he was in dire need of sponsorship for his university education. When all things SURYHG GLIÀFXOW KH DSSURDFKHG RQH RI WKH presbyters in a church in Ibadan, Oyo State who eventually advised that his impressive *HQHUDO &HUWLÀFDWH RI (GXFDWLRQ 2UGLQDU\ /HYHO *&( 2 /HYHO UHVXOWV EH DQQRXQFHG to the congregation during a Sunday service with a view to wooing Good Samaritans.

Though that was done, help did not come!

The presbyter’s wife pleaded with his husband to rerun the announcement. ‘Who knows, help might come!’ But ‘Iya Yard’ SUHDFKHU·V ZLIH ZDV VKRXWHG GRZQ ¶:H have more important things to do in the church’, he was quoted as saying. Then he WXUQHG WR WKH KHOS VHHNHU ´\RXQJ PDQ JR back to your village and start farming. By the time you do that for three to four years, you’ll have saved enough money to fund

your university education.”

Well, my friend’s experience brought to the fore a statement credited to Pastor W. F. Kumuyi, the Founder and General Superintendent of the Deeper Christian Life Ministry, recently. Kumuyi reportedly urged the Church to stop devoting all its money to church building but start committing parts to feeding the poor and clothing the QDNHG $FFRUGLQJ WR KLP ´DOO WKH RIIHULQJV are not just for the Church. There are poor people around. It makes no sense to give to a church building when the people inside are hungry.”

It is interesting to note that good things are coming from Nazareth even as there might be priests who didn’t share Kumuyi’s lines of thought and are likely to take him up on this. Meanwhile, looking around, RQH VHHV PDQ\ EHDXWLIXO HGLÀFHV EXLOW with the people’s contributions, with the

pastors cruising around in exotic cars and private jets. They live in opulence while the contributors suffer hunger and deprivation.

These days, the common trend within the House of God can only be referred to as %XLOGLQJ &RPSHWLWLRQ ¶LI \RX EXLOG D VHDWHU $XGLWRULXP , ZLOO VXUSULVH \RX ZLWK D VHDWHU %DVLOLFD complete with infrastructural and cultural VLJQLÀFDQFH DQG KL WHFK IDFLOLWLHV· QRW HYHQ PLQGLQJ ZKHWKHU RU QRW ´WKRVH ZKR do not have anything to feed” are there, dying.

To state the obvious, the new trend in the Church calls for concern. ‘Prophetic utterances’ a la miracles and prosperity are now gushing out like erosion while nobody cares about the Balanced Theology any longer. Apostle James said in the Holy Book that, if someone comes unto you without food and all you have to tell him or her is

‘go in peace’, what kind of peace would that EH ZLWKRXW ÀUVW JLYLQJ KLP ZKDW WKH ERG\ needs? Same goes for the Sheikhood system where the Sheikh lives large only for the followers to go home poor and hungry.

In an article, ‘Of miracle workers, receivers DQG FULWLFV· SXEOLVKHG RQ 6HSWHPEHU \RXUV VLQFHUHO\ FRPPHQWHG RQ KRZ WKH QRZ ODWH 3URSKHW 7 % -RVKXD ZHQW about, feeding the poor and clothing the unclothed, yet, what was of paramount interest to his colleagues in the faith was his having ‘evil spirit’ without doing something spectacular with their ‘holy spirit.’ Now that Joshua is dead, the world is free to accuse KLP RI ZKDWHYHU LW IHHOV EHÀWV KLP EXW WKH WUXWK LV WKRVH VRXOV ¶(PPDQXHO· IHG ZKLOH alive would not forget his good deeds in a hurry.

Abiodun Komolafe, Ijebu-Jesa, Osun State

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THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER )(%58$5< , 2024

PERSPECTIVE

Rivers Crisis: Between Wike and Fubara Chekwube Nzomiwu

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took away two things from the speech made by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the public presentation of two books written on the administration of his predecessor, former President Muhammadu Buhari,whichheld inAbuja recently. First, is that Buhari has not intruded in his government since he left office and retired to his hometown, Daura, Katsina State. Secondly, the former president has not nominated anybody for appointment into his government.

President Tinubu’s revelation coincided with the reconfirmation by the Rivers State House of Assembly of nine commissioners who resigned from the state cabinet at the heat of the power tussle between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, the incumbent Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The reconfirmed commissioners voluntarily tendered their resignation letters to demonstrate their allegiance to Wike. Although he was instrumental to Fubara’s election, both men had since parted ways. The arrangement to return the former commissioners was part of the controversial peace deal brokered between them by President Tinubu.

Sequel to the resolutions contained in the agreement, Governor Fubara recognised the Wike controlled House of Assembly, as led by the Speaker, Hon. Martins Amaewhule. On the other hand, the House dropped the impeachment proceedings it earlier initiated against the governor.

Equally part of the resolutions is that the House shall choose where they want to sit and conduct legislative business without interference and/or hindrance from the executive arm of government. Recall that the Rivers State Government had demolished the House of Assembly Complex in December last year as a result of structural defect arising from explosion and fire outbreak.

However, theWike camp accused the governor of demolishing the assembly complex to stop his impeachment. They also forgot that Wike sometime in July 2021 had said the complex is not befitting and due for rebuilding to a global standard that befits Rivers State. For now, the 25 lawmakers of the House who defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) now holds plenary at the Conference Room of the House of Assembly Quarters.

A few days ago, Wike said that his group had fulfilled their own part of Tinubu’s conditions for peace to return to Rivers State. Although Fubara is not a talkative like the minister, there is ample evidence that he has shown enormous goodwill towards the implementation of the agreement. Fubara’s commitment has even been acknowledged by the chief conciliator, President Tinubu.

Despite the prevailing circumstances, I feel strongly that all lovers of democracy should be concerned about the situation in Rivers State.

If not properly handled, it will definitely have catastrophic consequences for our democracy.

Why did I say so? First, I heard very senior lawyers argue that the president has no constitutional right to intervene in internal affairs of states.

Prominent among those who hold this opinion is Robert Clarke, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN). This position shared by Clarke in a live interview with Channels Television, was reechoed by former Governor of Lagos State and immediate past Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola SAN. I am aware that the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria (as amended), under General Provisions (Part 1), establishes the Federal Republic of Nigeria, States of the Federation and the Federal Capital Territory. The same Constitution vested the executive powers of the federation on the president and that of a state on the governor.

The Minister of the FCT is an appointee of the president.

Hence, it is both an aberration for the president to get involved in a political crisis within a state, where there is a governor, and for the governor to share executive powers in a state with an appointee of the president. Such flagrant abuse of the constitution endangers our democracy and amounts to planting landmines on the foundation

Wike of the Nigerian federation, and therefore, must not be condoned.

Secondly, I think that the courts ought to be allowed to thrash out the conundrum surrounding the issue of the defection of the 25Wike loyalists in the House from PDP to APC. The Constitution of Nigeria is explicit that lawmakers should have their seats vacated by virtue of defection from one party to the other. So, I agree with legal minds that the defectors need to prove to the court that their defection complies with the exceptions provided in the Constitution.

Thirdly, one of the greatest challenges of the Nigerian political system, especially at the sub-national level, is the conflict arising from godfatherism. In most cases, the godfather wants the governor to become his stooge. Once the governor attempts to assert his authority, crisis erupts. The godfather fights back and attempts to impeach the governor.

At the beginning of the Fourth Republic, we witnessed many of such cases, including the Jim Nwobodo-Chimaroke Nnamani clash in Enugu State, Olusola Saraki-Governor Lawal imbroglio in Kwara State, Emeka Offor-Governor Chinwoke Mbadinuju debacle in Anambra State and Lamidi Adedibu-Rasheed Ladoja fight in Oyo State. The climax was the epic battle between self-styled godfather of Anambra politics, Chris Uba and Governor Chris Ngige.

When two elephants fight, the grass suffers.

In the fight of the godfathers and the governors, the people suffer. governors redeploy resources meant for development in the State, to prosecution of political war against the godfathers. In some cases, insecurity is heightened in the state.

Remember that it was during the clash between Emeka Offor and Mbadinuju that the Onitsha branch Chairman of Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), Barnabas Igwe and his wife were brutally murdered.

In other cases, public and private property are destroyed. For instance, during the Uba-Ngige saga, part of the Government House Awka and state-ownedIkenga Hotels were razedby political thugs, purportedly acting on the orders of the godfather who had the federal might behind him.

Godfatherism is an ill-wind that blows no one any good. The ongoing Rivers crisis is the latest case of godfatherism in Nigeria. From all indica-

Fubara tions, Wike is hell-bent on calling the shots in Rivers from Abuja. Rivers is not an extension of the FCT. Does he want to become Minister of Rivers State, when there is a sitting governor?

A ship cannot have two captains. That he was instrumental to Fubara’s emergence does not matter. As governor, Fubara is accountable to the people of Rivers State and not Wike.

Again, Wike accused Fubara of trying to destroy the political structure that brought him to power. As a political scientist, I sincerely don’t understand what he meant by political structure. Political structure simply means political system. In Political Science, a political system or political structure refers to the type of political organisation existing in a state, whether presidential or parliamentary, unitary or federal, democracy or autocracy, among others.

If Wike was talking about “political machine,” then he should know that one man cannot appropriate the franchise to himself. It is a party organisation (with a boss or controlled by a small group) which has enough votes to have control over political administration in a city, country or state. One man alone cannot constitute the machine. He is minister today, courtesy of the contributions of the entire membership of the machine, including His Excellency, Siminalayi Fubara. Wike should know that the money he used in buying forms for all the elected officials in Rivers State is the patrimony of the people, and not his personal resources.

If truth be told, he is the person that should be accused of ingratitude and not Fubara. The governor is not importing crisis to himself as Wike claimed. The latter is the person exporting crisis from Abuja to Rivers State. I heard him say that if you haven’t given a manpower and money, then, you don’t know the person.

Let him remember the saying that “when you point a finger at someone, there are three more pointing back at you.”

Literary icon, Professor Chinua Achebe (of blessed memory) said in “Things Fall Apart” that “Those whose kernels were cracked by benevolent spirit, should not forget to be humble.” Elder statesman, Edwin Clark recently revealed in a television interview how a former governor, picked up Wike from a motor park

and made him a council chairman. From there, Rotimi Amaechi made him Chief of Staff.

When Amaechi could no longer contain his “cantankerous” behaviour, he recommended him to President Goodluck Jonathan for ministerial appointment. The same man later teamed up with Jonathan’s wife to fight Amaechi, all in a bid to become the Governor of Rivers State.

Today, he no longer reckons with Jonathan and his wife. It sounds preposterous that this same character is accusing another person of betraying him. Was he not the one that said that betrayal is part of politics?

I remember that during the battle between Emeka Offor and Mbadinuju, the then President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo invited the two to Aso Rock and told Offor pointblank that “a man carrying the carcass of an elephant on his head, does not search for cricket with his legs.” I expected President Tinubu to tell same to his minister. He has been a governor for eight years. He was local government chairman. He was Chief of Staff. He was Minister of State.

Today, he is not an ordinary minister, but a super minister. He is the only minister whose ministry was excluded from the Treasury Single Account (TSA). I heard him brag the other day that he is the only minister who presents his budget directly to the National Assembly. So, what did he forget in Rivers State?

As a result of his divided attention, the FCT Abuja is now a den of kidnappers. I agree with activist Deji Adeyanju that his negligence was responsible for the insecurity in Abuja. He cannot put the blame on innocent Area Council Chairmen.

He is the Minister of the FCT and should take the responsibility for the frightening insecurity in the seat of power. I expect the president as a statesman and pro-democracy activist, to rise to the occasion and rein in his minister.

In conclusion, Wike must leave Fubara alone to do the job for which Rivers people elected him. He should stop taking advantage of the governor’s peaceful disposition to cause trouble in Rivers State. Rivers people cannot be intimidated with federal might. Let him be wary of a South African proverb which says that “even an ant can hurt an elephant.”

Nzomiwu writes from Enugu

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GLITZ ENTERTAINMENT

Power Tussle Between Universal Music Group and TikTok ˆTiwa Savage’s songs muted on TikTok Stories by Vanessa Obioha

By Thursday, songs of UMG artists such as Drake, Taylor Swift and even Tiwa Savage were removed from the TikTok audio library and in cases where they have been uploaded by users or even the artists, they were muted, although some videos containing snippets of their songs still lingered on the site.

TikTok, owned by Chinese company ByteDance, has evolved into a crucial marketing tool for musicians worldwide, catapulting songs like CKay’s ‘Nwantinti’ to global acclaim.

The company had even once said that “music is at the heart of TikTok experience.”

Beyond promoting music, the social media platform has become a discovery hub for many music lovers, linking them to new sounds while evoking a feeling of nostalgia for old music.

There are dedicated accounts that upload Nigerian old skool’s music such as Seyi Sodimu’s ‘Love me Jeje’ featuring actress and singer Shaffy Bello But sometimes, artists complain that these social media and streaming platforms only pay them pittances, raising concerns about the appropriate payment for creative work. Many reluctantly stayed on the platform to retain their fan base.

The rift between UMG and TikTok has ignited a fervent debate among music enthusiasts. While some view it as an opportunity for independent artists to shine sans record labels, others advocate for fair compensation for artists whose intellectual property graces TikTok’s platform.

As of the time of filing this report, the standoff remains unresolved, leaving the music community anxiously waiting for the outcome of this clash between two industry titans.

The ongoing battle between Universal Music Group (UMG) and TikTok has left music enthusiasts in quandary On January 30, 2024, just a day before UMG’s licensing agreement with TikTok expired, the music powerhouse publicly announced its decision not to renew the deal.

Citing issues such as inadequate compensation, AI encroachments on artists’ creative works, and concerns over online safety, UMG emphasized its commitment to nurturing artistic and commercial endeavours in an open letter. “Our core mission is simple: to help our artists and songwriters attain their greatest creative and commercial potential,” read the letter The company, which is the biggest of the world’s three conglomerates, argued further that despite TikTok’s “massive and growing user base, rapidly rising advertising revenue and increasing reliance on musicbased content, TikTok accounts for only about 1% of our total revenue.”

In response, TikTok said UMG “have chosen to walk away from the powerful support of a platform with well over a billion users that serves as a free promotional and discovery vehicle for their talent.”

It stated that it has been able to reach ‘artist-first’ agreements with every other label and publisher, and Universal’s “self-serving actions are not in the best interests of artists, songwriters and fans.”

Savage

Joel Benson’s ‘Madu’ to Heineken’s Afrozons Premiere at Santa Barbara Pre-Grammy Party International Film Festival Honours KSA, Fela Savage.

Madu poster

Acclaimed Nigerian documentary filmmaker Joel ‘Kachi Benson will be in the spotlight at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival as ‘Madu,’ a documentary he co-directed with Oscar nominee Matt Ogens, has been selected as the opening film of the festival.

The compelling documentary follows the inspiring journey of Anthony Madu, a young Nigerian ballet dancer, from his humble beginnings in Lagos to the United Kingdom, where he is currently honing his craft at the prestigious Elmhurst Ballet School.

Madu gained popularity in 2020 during the pandemic after a video of him dancing in the rain was uploaded to YouTube and gained him millions of views from across the world. His graceful pirouettes and fluid arabesques generated interest, attracting both local and international media.

In 2021, Disney Original Films engaged Benson and Ogens to direct a documentary feature on young Madu. Benson is a multi-award-winning documentary filmmaker, best known for his VR film, Daughters of Chibok, which won the Venice Lion in the Virtual Reality category of the Venice International Film Festival in 2019. With that win, Benson became the first African to win the Lion in that category.

The production of ‘Madu’ was announced by Disney in 2022, during the D23 Expo. “Anthony comes from a community with limited opportunities, making this [a] chance of a lifetime to pursue his dream,” said Disney Original Documentary in a release.

“Our shared journey is about curiosity and creating an understanding of different cultures through our connection with each other,” Ogens and Benson said in a statement. “Ultimately, this is a journey of discovery, growth, belonging and acceptance, a theme we both personally relate to. Making his voice heard is our ultimate drive, and we believe Anthony’s extraordinary story will make the most captivating, emotional, and riveting film either of us has told.”

‘Madu’ will open the 39th edition of SBIFF on February 7 and will premiere on DisneyPlus on March 29.

Brandy, 21 Savage Join Burna Boy on Grammy Stage When Burna Boy mounts the Grammys stage tonight for a historic performance, he will not be alone. According to reports by Rolling Stones, Burna who makes history as the first afrobeats artiste to perform at the Grammys, will be joined by American singer Brandy and British-American rapper 21 Savage. Burna Boy sampled Brandy’s 1998 hit single ‘Top of the World’ featuring Ma$e on his song ‘Sittin’ on Top of the World,’ featuring 21 Savage. The song is nominated in the Best Melodic Rap Performance category.

The performance also marks the debut of 21 Savage on the Grammys stage while Brandy will be performing for the first time since the nineties.

As the afrobeats star with the most nominations at this year’s Grammys, all eyes are on Burna Boy to repeat his 2021 historic feat when he first won a Grammy award.

In what is gradually becoming a tradition for the global beer brand, Heineken recently hosted Nigerian music stars at Afrozons pre-Grammy party where it honoured Nigerian music icons King Sunny Ade (KSA) and Fela Kuti.

Usually held to celebrate African Grammy nominees, this year’s party brought together the old and young generation with appearances from juju maestro KSA and Yeni Kuti, the daughter of afrobeat legend Fela Anikulapo-Kuti.

KSA was honoured with a legacy award for his KSA (r) with Burna Boy’s mum, Bose Ogulu immense contribution to African music, being the first Nigerian to be nominated for a Grammy, in 1983. of afrobeat, and this acknowledgement was a “KSA’s contribution to the world of music is poignant tribute to the enduring impact of Fela’s immeasurable, and it was a moment of pure joy to music and the continued innovation of Femi. witness him being recognised and celebrated here The Afrozons Pre-Grammy Party, fueled tonight,” said Rico Love, Chairman, Grammys Black

by Heineken, not only celebrated the brand’s Music Collective, at the party. impressive legacy of 150 years but also highlighted Yeni also took the stage to accept the Legacy awards the rich tapestry of African music. Ayra Starr and on behalf of her father, Fela, and her brother, Femi Kuti.

Libianca were part of the musical performers of The legacy of the Kuti family looms large in the world the night

Mai Atafo, Others Fetes with Daniel Atteh as He Becomes The Macallan’s Brand Ambassador for Lagos In an intimate dinner, premium Scottish single malt whisky The Macallan officially unveiled former Big Brother Naija housemate, Daniel Atteh (also known as Sir Dee) as its Lagos brand ambassador.

Over the past few months,Atteh has become a consistent presence at numerous events hosted by The Macallan, leading attendees on an immersive journey through the whisky production process, from the casks to the glasses.

He is recognised as an astute host, actor, luxury lifestyle Influencer and whisky connoisseur Speaking on the choice of Atteh, Brand Manager, Edrington Portfolio, Nigeria, Hammed Adebiyi said, “The strategic selection of Daniel Atteh as The Macallan’s ambassador is more than just a mere endorsement; it symbolises a deliberate effort to align the brand with a persona whose essence resonates with its core values. We take immense pleasure

in introducing Daniel Atteh as our new brand ambassador.”

He added that Atteh epitomises excellence and inspiration, making him an impeccable representation of the brand across various markets and demographics.

“I feel honoured to be an ambassador/educator with The Macallan; I have always had a strong affinity to the Macallan and I’m very excited to begin this journey with a brand that has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to craftsmanship, legacy, distinctive taste and contribution to a timeless tradition,” enthused Atteh who was in the company of friends and his fiancée Miss Chloe.

Also present at the dinner which was held at The Macallan Lounge in Kaly Restaurant and Bar, Victoria Island, Lagos, was the creative designer Mai Atafo, and BBNaija alumnae Jeff Nweke among others.

L-R: Business Lawyer, Barr. Francis Obuzor; The Macallan Brand Ambassador, Abuja, Adeyinka Adepetun; The Macallan Brand Ambassador, Lagos, Daniel Atteh; Trade Marketing Manager, Edrington Portfolio (NBC), Tsolaye Everett-Eleorama; and Brand Manager, Edrington Portfolio, Nigeria, Hammed Adebiy

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4.2.2024

WEEKLY PULL-OUT

GRAMMYS 2024: ANTICIPATION FOR AFROBEATS NOMINEES ON MUSIC’S BIGGEST NIGHT For the first time in the history of Grammy Awards, several afrobeats stars are in the spotlight.

Not only are they nominated in the Global Music categories, they also feature prominently in the newly introduced African Music Performance category and other categories, shining a light on the rich sounds emanating from the continent. Their nominations highlight the increasing visibility of afrobeats on the global stage. Vanessa Obioha and Iyke Bede draw attention to the five afrobeats nominees and the works that earned them these prestigious nods, eagerly awaiting their potential triumph and hoping they will bring home the coveted gold-plated gramophones tonight.

Ayra Starr Burna Boy

Davido

EDITED BY: VANESSA OBIOHA/vanessa.obioha@thisdaylive.com.

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COVER

Big Day for Afrobeat at the Grammys for Album of the Year, CKay and Seun Kuti’s appearances on Janelle Monae’s ‘Age of Pleasure,’ also considered for Album of the Year. Below are the prominent afrobeats nominees taking centre stage at the Grammys tonight.

Burna Boy

When Burna Boy boldly declared himself as the African Giant in 2019 before the release of his fourth studio album ‘African Giant,’ skeptics chuckled, dismissing it as mere bravado. Yet, with each passing year, Burna Boy has not only lived up to that moniker but has elevated it to legendary status, etching his name in the golden history books of Nigerian music.

He is the ‘African Giant,’ he is ‘Twice as Tall,’ and of course his fans not only line up for his autograph ‘Love, Damini,’ they also want to experience his essence. Even those who once doubted his towering stature have been silenced by his cheeky reminder, ‘I Told Them.’

In 2012, Burna Boy, born Damini Ogulu, burst onto the mainstream music scene with the infectious anthem ‘Like to Party.’

However, it was in 2019 that his ascent to the international spotlight truly intensified when he clinched the Best International Act award at the BET Awards. Since his debut nomination at the 2020 Grammy Awards, Burna Boy has consistently solidified his presence as a regular fixture at music’s most esteemed event.

In a monumental moment for Nigerian music, Burna Boy made history in 2021 as the second Nigerian artist to win a Grammy award for his album ‘Twice as Tall.’

Burna Boy’s growing influence can be attributed to his adept skills at sampling songs as evidenced by tracks like ‘Last Last,’ inspired by American singer Toni Braxton.

His latest album, ‘I Told Them,’ continues this trend with tracks like ‘Sittin’ on Top of the World’ featuring 21 Savage, which earned him a nomination for Best Melodic Rap Performance at this year’s Grammys.

As the Grammys unfold tonight, anticipation mounts: will Burna Boy etch his name in history as the most decorated afrobeats artist at the Grammys? With multiple nominations for ‘I Told Them,’ including Best Global Music Album, along with individual nominations for tracks like ‘Alone’ and ‘City Boys’ in Global Music Performance and Best African Music Performance categories respectively, Burna Boy stands poised to make a lasting impact on the global music stage.

Beyond winning tonight, Burna Boy will also be performing at the Grammys, a powerful declaration of his glowing status as the Africa Giant indeed.

Asake

Ayra Starr

Olamide

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n 1984, when King Sunny Ade (KSA) earned a Grammy nomination for his album ‘Syncro System’ in the Ethnic or Traditional Folk Recording category, the idea of a Nigerian musician achieving such international acclaim seemed like a faraway dream.

Despite not winning, KSA’s nomination ignited hope within the Nigerian music community. Two years later, the Nigerianborn British singer Sade Adu won the Grammy award for Best New Artist and in 2002 took the award for Best Pop Vocal Album for her album ‘Lovers Rock.’ By 1999, KSA found himself on the nomination list again, this time for his work ‘Odu.’ The journey didn’t end there. Other notable Nigerian musicians, including Femi and Seun Kuti, the children of afrobeat legend Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, followed suit, fetching nominations and further solidifying Nigeria’s presence on the international music stage.

The rise of afrobeats in the late 90s and early 2000s marked a new chapter, with numerous Nigerian music acts breaking into the international market and clinching prestigious awards such as the BET and MTV Base Africa Music Awards (MAMAs).

This evolution underscores the resilience and creativity of Nigerian artistes, showcasing their ability to captivate global audiences and reshape the music landscape. While this genre with various influences ranging from

Oyinkansola Aderibigbe, best known by her stage name Ayra Starr, galloped into the music scene in January 2021 with a very impressive eponymous extended play (EP) that housed the breakout hit ‘Away.’ The monumental shift in her music career was afrobeat to hip-hop helped propel many preceded by her covering popular songs on Nigerian music acts into stardom, the notion her Instagram page until a performance of of associating afrobeats with the Grammys an original song ‘Damage’ caught the eye of seemed unattainable a decade ago. music producer Don Jazzy. The track would Now the landscape has dramatically later be interpolated into a track titled ‘Toxic’ shifted. Burna Boy’s Grammy win in 2021 on her debut full-length studio album ‘19 & signalled a new dawn for afrobeats stars. Not Dangerous.’ only are they getting nominated but also their ‘19 & Dangerous’ was released in August collaborative efforts also see them wearing of the same year and went on to produce the the Grammy winner toga. successful ‘Bloody Samaritan’ which inspired This year, the envelope has been pushed so many viral clips, as well as receiving a further as evidenced by the remarkable remake/cover from the famed Loud Urban feat of five Nigerian afrobeats artists who Choir. Clearly. The song still stands as her secured nominations spanning various lone official single from the original version of categories. Burna Boy, Davido, Ayra Starr, the album, however, it was preceded by the Olamide and Asake are all basking in the promotional single ‘Fashion Killer.’ spotlight of music’s biggest night today as With an increasing number of all eyes are on them to bring back the goldcollaborations between Nigerian and foreign plated gramophones in any of the categories acts, Starr recruited a former member of the including the newly introduced Best African girl group Destiny’s Child, Kelly Rowland to Music Performance which they share with work on the remix of ‘Bloody Samaritan’ that other music acts from the continent. would later be released in September 2022.

The current spotlight on afrobeats This version appears on the deluxe version of highlights the genre’s evolving global ‘19 &. Dangerous’ recognition. As all the nominees assemble Having received so much acclaim for her today at the Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles, releases, another single off the deluxe album California, to know their fate, their journeys version, ‘Rush,’ continues to rise in global are woven into tales of uplifting afrobeats to charts, peaking at number 24 in the UK. This its current stature. track becomes her first-ever nomination at Other notable Nigerian musicians the Grammy in the category of Best African nominated for their contribution to a body Music Performance at just age 21, enabling of work considered for a Grammy include her to set the record for the youngest Fireboy DML who contributed on Jon Nigerian afrobeats artiste to gain a Grammy Baptiste’s ‘World Music Radio’ nominated nomination.

Davido

Considered Wizkid’s peer, David Adeleke’s —popularly known as Davido— walk to Grammy recognition has been a long and enduring one that ended in him earning three nominations at the 66th edition of the globally revered award show.

Tagging alongside Nigerian rapper Naeto C on ‘Back When’ in 2011, a young Davido debuted on the scene, and ever since, the hits kept rolling in. This moderately successful collaboration was followed by the banger ‘Dami Duro,’ an EDM-inspired afrobeats joint that helped make him a household name.

Other successful singles included ‘Skelewu,’ ‘Aye,’ and ‘Fall.’

Early into his career, the singer became one of the few artists to snag international and continental collaborations, helping him reach a wider audience. So far, he has collaborated with American acts like Tinashe, Meek Mill, Summer Walker, Nicki Minaj, Lil Baby, and multiple-time collaborator Chris Brown.

With an impressive discography that spans four albums: ‘Omo Baba Olowo,’ ‘A Good Time,’ ‘A Better Time,’ and ‘Timeless’ his latest studio album seemingly has broken his Grammy jinx, scoring him nominations for Best Global Music Album (‘Timeless’), Best Global Music Performance (‘Feel’) where he competes with Burna Boy’s ‘Alone,’ and Best African Music Performance (‘Unavailable’) which goes head to head against entries from Tyla, Burna Boy, Olamide, Asake, and Ayra Starr.

Olamide

Arguably the hardest working musician on this list, Olamide is a moving train that has never stopped since he ventured out with his infectious ‘Eni Duro’ in 2010, and later collaborated with Wizkid on ‘Omo To Shan’ to commercial and critical success.

Renowned for his adept use of Yoruba vernacular in both his songs and collaborations, he has skillfully carved out a niche for himself. This artistic flair is evident across his impressive discography, encompassing a total of nine solo studio albums, the latest of which, ‘Unruly,’ was released last August.

Tonight, Olamide might just be on his way to clinch his career’s first Grammy alongside Asake, both of whom were nominated in the category of Best African Music Performance for their widely successful effort ‘Amapiano.’

Asake

Ahmed Ololade, widely known as Asake, has swiftly risen as one of afrobeats’ fastestrising artistes. Since releasing his debut studio album ‘Mr Money with the Vibe’ just two years ago, Asake’s star has soared to impressive heights. His debut album made waves by breaking the record for the biggest opening day for an African album on Apple Music and debuting at number 66 on the Billboard 200 chart, marking the highest-charting Nigerian debut album in the chart’s history.

An alumnus of the Dramatic Arts at Obafemi Awolowo University, Asake began sharing his music in 2017 and gained widespread attention in 2022 with the release of the single ‘Mr Money.’ That same year, he joined the esteemed YBNL family, owned by Nigerian rapper Olamide, and secured a distribution deal with Empire.

The following year marked another milestone in Asake’s career with the release of his sophomore album ‘Work of Art,’ preceded by the infectious single ‘Amapiano’ featuring Olamide. The track quickly became a fan favourite, even earning a spot on former U.S. President Barack Obama’s 2023 favourite music list.

‘Work of Art’ also debuted at number 66 on the Billboard 200, making it the second time his album has attained that feat. Additionally, his song ‘Lonely at the Top’ from the album garnered attention and led to a collaboration with American singer H.E.R. With ‘Amapiano’ earning him his first Grammy nomination, Asake’s ascent to the top may not only be swift but also glittering with the prestigious gold-plated gramophone.

“Other notable Nigerian musicians nominated for their contribution to a body of work considered for a Grammy include Fireboy DML who contributed on Jon Baptiste’s ‘World Music Radio’ nominated for Album of the Year, CKay and Seun Kuti’s appearances on Janelle Monae’s ‘Age of Pleasure,’ also considered for Album of the Year.”

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HighLife

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

Can CBN Governor Birthday Brouhaha: Kennedy-Ohanenye’s Ministry of Missteps Get It Right?

Cardoso

The human intellect has been hallowed over the years. Celebrated for inventing and advancing useful technologies, the intellect has been idolised as a transformative agent. But set against the seeming successive failures of Yemi Cardoso, Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), intellect seems to lose its power in the face of hazy conditions such as those buffeting the Nigerian economy.

Cardoso, a man renowned for his financial smarts and vision, is gradually turning into the next subject of ridicule on social media. Initially cast as the next saviour of the economy, alongside President Bola Tinubu, Cardoso is now being dragged online for policies that appear to worsen the matter of the naira’s value against the dollar.

At the close of January 2024, the naira plunged in value against the dollar, matching the latter at a ratio of around N1,500 to $1. The value of the Nigerian currency has never fallen so far, inspiring online protests against Cardoso’s policymaking and initiatives. But if Cardoso’s decisions cannot change the outcome of the naira against the dollar, what next?

Such questions are beginning to feature in ordinary conversations across the nation. The main thing is that Cardoso arrived at his CBN position with pomp, riding on the waves of great hope and expectation. He has also made strong moves, some of which his predecessors were afraid to even consider, thereby adding to his good points.

Unfortunately, nothing seems to be working fine. The forex market has been touched, but nothing happened. Some restrictions against the use of blockchain and virtual currencies were neutralised, but nothing happened. $500 million was infused into the economy with the promise of foreign investments, but even that could not halt the fall of the naira against the dollar.

At this point, people are attributing the failure to Cardoso. The question now arises: can he make things right again? Can he get it right by fixing the currency exchange problem and returning the naira to a useful currency outside the shores of the country? Time will tell.

Aigbovbioise AigImoukhuede: A Far, Far Better Man Than Before In Charles Dickens’ best-selling book, “A Tale of Two Cities,” one of the main characters says these words: “It is a far, far better thing that I do, than I have ever done; it is a far, far abetter rest that I go to than I have ever known.” These words almost perfectly fit the new lifestyle of Aigbovbioise Aig-Imoukhuede, once the fearless Adonis of society and now the

In the vaudevillian stage of Nigerian politics, where every actor plays for high stakes, one would expect the Minister of Women Affairs, Barr. Uju KennedyOhanenye, to wield her quill for the weighty affairs of state. Instead, she has penned a comedy of errors, allegedly using official letterhead to beckon all Honourable Ministers to her husband’s birthday shindig at the opulent Transcorp Hilton Hotel. It’s like watching Cleopatra hosting a feast in the court of Caesar, only, in this case, Cleopatra is the minister, and the feast is merely a birthday bash.

Picture it: the grand seal of the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, meant for the solemn business of governance, now moonlighting as a party planner for the “Double Chief” Kennedy Ohanenye’s soiree.

It’s as if the ministry has transformed into a stage for high society farce, where the lines between personal festivity and public duty are blurred more than the vision of revellers after a raucous night out.

This latest frolic is but a scene in the

Kennedy-Ohanenye

larger theatre of blunders that is the Tinubu administration’s ministerial misadventures. It seems the female ministers are competing for the leading role in the tragicomedy of errors. From Betta Edu’s financial fiasco to Hannatu Musawa’s NYSC

narrative, each act overshadows the last with its audacity. They are like a band of Shakespeare’s mechanicals, inadvertently providing a play within a play, except here, the stakes are the integrity of governance.

Kennedy-Ohanenye’s gaffe is the pièce de résistance in this festival of faux pas. It’s as if she’s decided if governance is a circus, then let there be a carnival! Why should the ministerial letterhead not double as an invitation to merriment? In her reimagining of officialdom, statecraft is indistinguishable from the art of party-throwing, and the corridors of power are but pathways to personal celebration.

It’s a move so brazen that it has the chattering classes chattering even more, the gossip mills grinding out an extra shift. As the ink dries on this latest invitation, one can’t help but marvel at the audacity. The once-hallowed halls of government now echo with the sounds of birthday serenades.

As the Tinubu government sails on through choppy waters, it appears Kennedy-Ohanenye has unwittingly become the captain of the revelry, steering the ship not with a compass of competence, but with the gaiety of a party hat.

Wale Tinubu Strikes Gold as He Secures $755m NNPC Deal

Tinubu

The Nigerian oil and gas industry is in the middle of a majestic revitalisation. Certainly different from the past, the contribution from different actors is repositioning the sector in

the country’s efforts to attain sustainable growth and development. This is due to the vision and motions of Oando PLC Group CEO, Wale Tinubu, alongside a handful of others. With every contribution, Tinubu gets something big in return.

The recent moves by Tinubu have resulted in a deal with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited.

Nothing new there, except that this deal is currently valued at $755 million, which is nearly the equivalent of N1 trillion.

Although Tinubu’s Oando PLC only has a part in the deal, it is still a significant win for the company.

The victory song from Oando PLC and its peers comes in response to the oil swap contract approved by NNPC. Complementing the Direct Sale and Direct Purchase (DSDP) initiative, NNPC

awarded the contract to Tinubu’s Oando PLC, along with five others; namely, AA Rano Nigeria, Gulf Transport and Trading, Mercuria, PV Oil Singapore PTE Limited, and Sahara Energy Resources.

Oando’s premier position among the six companies indicates an increasing influence in the Nigerian oil and gas industry. More importantly, it demonstrates Tinubu’s determination to help revolutionise the energy sector in general, pitting it against foreign and multinational sectors.

Given enough time, Tinubu might actualise this, especially as his activities are beginning to earn the nod from domestic and international peers.

Great things are indeed spoken of Tinubu at the moment, as they always have been.

The man’s strategic guidance at Oando PLC propels the company continuously. His motions ring with the shadows of Tinubu’s courtroom background, focused and repetitively on point.

The Amazing World of Billionaire Businessman, Tope Awotona There is an odd narrative about Nigerians in the diaspora that is out of sync with the realities back home. It is the narrative of Nigerians as beggars, swindlers, and goodfor-nothings. Tope Awotona is changing this narrative, reinforcing its reverse - that Nigerians can be whatever they want to be but they will always be mighty awesome at it.

The entire world is currently celebrating and ruminating on the success of Awotona.

Previously, Forbes introduced the world to his genius with his exploits at Calendly and how he founded a business valued at over $3 billion in a stranger’s land. Ever since that report, eyes have been trained on this silent genius toppling horrid projections about Nigerians in the US. The Awotona of today is a different person than the one who moved to the US in his teens. Now a few steps into his 40s, Awotona is almost single-handedly revolutionising corporate management and processes for

businesses in Atlanta and around the world.

His brainchild, Calendly, continues to bear the spark for corporate team and task scheduling, and related process organisation.

Awotona is currently ranked first among Nigerians in the US in terms of wealth.

Estimated to be personally valued at over $1.2 billion, Awotona’s billionaire status has been linked to a focused strategy of investing in only the most valuable business ventures.

These include Givebutter and Vonza, both of which are involved in social and intensive entrepreneurship.

By now, Awotona’s Calendly is his number one business venture. Founded in 2013, the software company is considered Awotona’s most successful venture. It would have been the first out of four, including an online dating social network, a venture for garden tools, and an enterprise that sells projectors. However, the other three never picked up.

Nevertheless, Awotona’s status as a

serious MD/CEO of Coronation Bank.

Indeed, he is a far, far better man than before.

Committed and retired socialites are commenting on the changed status of Coronation Bank captain, AigImoukhuede. Once believed to only see life through pink and sanguine glasses, the younger brother of former Access Bank MD (now Coronation Bank Chairman) has turned a new leaf. He is completely different from the seemingly brash and audacious fellow of yesteryear.

Presently, Aig-Imoukhuede presents himself as a bespectacled business manager, one who is always suited for the occasion. With a strong and confident handshake here and an evaluative nod there, Aig-Imoukhuede’s new persona bears the markings of a business duke. It

is completely different from the man of the past.

Some readers may still be able to recall AigImoukhuede’s former ways. He was the life of parties, great and small. His umbrellas of fun stretched from Lagos to London, Abuja to America, accompanied by equally spirited young men and ladies with responsible big brothers and sisters manning their futures.

One might look at Aig-Imoukhuede now and still find traces of that happy-go-lucky man of former times. It is there in his easygoing rapport with subordinates. Not even that has been extinguished by the evident burden of seriousness now attached to his name as an Aig-Imoukhuede.

With the change in Aig-Imoukhuede, one undoubtedly motivated intrinsically, the family name is safe. No wonder Coronation Bank has been recording success after success recently.

Awotona

prime tech entrepreneur in the US, despite his Nigerian roots, sets him apart from his peers.

For Nigerians, it is pride-inspiring. For the world at large, it is the start of something new and different.

Aig-Imoukhuede

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HIGHLIFE

Widespread Relief in Oyo State as Seyi Makinde Tightens Security

Makinde

Problem-solving cannot be separated from problem-identification. Many a time, the latter precedes the former. This makes it all the more obvious that the route taken against

rising insecurity across the nation by Oyo State governor, Seyi Makinde, is the best. The coming years will likely see Oyo taking the lead in matters of security and citizenry protection.

Governor Makinde has grown increasingly popular among Nigerians in the last few days.

The reason for this not-so-sudden popularity is the strong stance that the engineer and businessman adopted to ensure that the people of Oyo are safe from the currents of insecurity blowing across the country.

According to Makinde, one of the reasons for the growing banality of kidnapping in Nigeria is the refusal of the Federal government to allow a state police system. In his view, once every state in Nigeria can coordinate its resources for policing without relying on a centralised system, much of the seeds of insecurity would be rooted out and citizenry safety would be achieved across the nation.

Makinde has experimented with this

solution time and again. The most common of these experiments is the approval he gave for community policing, effectively engaging citizens in vulnerable regions to keep an eye out for crime and report to established security organisations. So far, this has worked and secured many of the rural communities from kidnapping, unlike the case in other states in Nigeria.

Makinde’s swiftness to deal with problems is an assuaging balm for his people. At a time when some governors are rumoured to be solely focused on fighting their predecessors and others are allegedly establishing new state offices to repay their forebearers, Makinde is a shining example of a trustworthy leader.

It may only be security at the moment for Makinde, but the people of Oyo are relieved.

Things are certainly going to get better at the state, sooner rather than later.

Siju Iluyomade at 60: Dignitaries Rising for the Arise Women Convener Celebrations generally accompany accomplishments. For Dr. Siju Iluyomade, the humble convener and CEO of Arise Women, celebrations may be distracting but are important for setting examples. And that is what she has spent most of her time doing: setting examples. At 60, Dr. Iluyomade’s examples are gradually bearing the expected fruit.

Nigerians are still experiencing the aftereffects of the celebration of Dr. Iluyomade’s 60th birthday held on January 8, 2024. Readers would recall the deluge of goodwill messages that poured in from every corner of the nation, demonstrating the impact of the lawyer on the lives of ordinary people. It turns out that the main celebration is yet to come.

According to reports, Dr. Iluyomade intends to receive dignitaries across the country for an event that reflects her 60th birthday celebration.

The event, aptly tagged ‘Special 60th Diamond Ball,’ will see these dignitaries arriving in Lagos to thank God for the life of Dr. Iluyomade and

rub minds on how to reinforce her efforts to change and improve lives.

Based on the published information on the forthcoming event, the get-together will start with a special service held in Dr. Iluyomade’s honour on Sunday, February 18, 2024. The location is Redeemed Christian Church of God, City of David, Oniru, Lagos, the church pastored over by her husband, Idowu Iluyomade.

Plans have also been unveiled regarding what will follow the service. According to the outline, guests will accompany Dr. Iluyomade elsewhere for a Special Diamond Ball Reception after the Sunday Service. Although the venue has not been published, the ball reception will certainly be at a top event Center in Lagos. This means that guests must be prepared to have a blast with the charming Arise Women convener.

For Dr. Iluyomade, life is all about impact.

Her love for the underprivileged remains a burning passion, calling for a double celebration of her 60th birthday

Iluyomade

Dangote’s Half-Brother, Sayyu Dantata, Following His Big Steps

Dantata

Association is a powerful component of success. This has always been the case, long before Africa’s number one man of wealth, Aliko Dangote, was shown to be related to the Dantatas, especially Sayyu Dantata, the genius behind MRS Oil Nigeria. With the recent bump in Dantata’s wealth status, commentators are pointing out how his efforts reflect the steps of his half-brother, Dangote.

Dantata is fast becoming a household name across Nigeria and, indeed, the majority of West Africa. Like his halfbrother, Dangote, Dantata’s popularity is borne on the shoulders of his business exploits. These exploits are gradually spreading across multiple West African regions, showing him to be every bit a maestro of management, commerce, and investments as his brother.

The renewed focus on Dantata comes in response to the recent reports from his company, MRS Oil. According to the

report, MRS Oil commanded a revenue size of more than $190 million in 2023 alone. Although the bump-up in revenue follows the increase in fuel price in the last 12 months, it still says something about Dantata’s wisdom to have expanded his business scale during this time Granted, it is easy to accrue MRS Oil’s financial success to rising fuel prices.

However, MRS Oil also has a strong presence in Benin, Togo, Cameroon, and Cote d’Ivoire. These regions share commonalities in terms of oil and gas due to their geographical locations along the Gulf of Guinea, and so every financial win experienced by MRS Oil can be considered deliberate and well-thought-out.

With Dantata owning around 60 per cent of MRS Oil, the revenue of over $190 million (the equivalent of more than N180 billion) is a big win for him. He may not be a match for his half-brother yet, but it is only a matter of time.

Will Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo Keep His Job … As Many Want Him Out of the Government Intentions are the spirits behind everything.

To judge a decision or action correctly, the intention behind it must be evaluated.

Applying this understanding to the storm ravaging the reputation of the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, one can see that the intentions behind the call to have him fired from his present position are not altogether pure.

It has been a while now since Tunji-Ojo fell in the eyes of some Nigerians. Perhaps because he was highly celebrated just before the whistle was blown, Tunji-Ojo’s reputation took a strong hit. At present, this hit threatens to see him ushered out of office disgracefully. But whether this campaign will bear fruit is still uncertain.

To refresh the minds of readers regarding the troubles of Tunji-Ojo: the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Dr. Betta Edu, was found to have directed the transfer of state funds to a private account. While the winds of accusation and suspicions were still blowing, it

was found that Tunji-Ojo has closer ties with Dr. Edu than the occasional ministerial handshake.

Apparently, Edu once awarded a contract worth N438.1 million to a company called New Planet Project Limited. The company was discovered to have been founded by Tunji-Ojo, suggesting that Edu’s decision to award it a N438.1 million contract was not coincidental at all. Social commentators alleged that it was Edu’s way of thanking Tunji-Ojo for showing her the ropes of fund misappropriation.

Since then, Tunji-Ojo has been in a pot of boiling soup. Defending Edu’s actions, Tunji-Ojo said that there was no conflict of interest because he retired from the company in 2019, long before he took on the position of Interior Minister.

But he is still a major stakeholder there, along with his wife, so his defence only inflamed and inspired his detractors.

Currently, the calls that Tunji-Ojo be removed from the ministerial office are louder than ever. But any observant person can tell that

Tunji-Ojo

there is more to this campaign than simple disappointment at Tunji-Ojo’s ‘irresponsible’ oversight. But time will tell the nature and authors of these campaigns.

Nwosu

New Horizons for Catherine Nwosu To the individual ready to take on the world and experience new and awesome things, the global marketplace is an open field. Being such a person, Catherine Nwosu is set to experience new horizons at Africa Prudential PLC. None of this is particularly surprising due to Nwosu’s practical corporate accumulations over the years.

Africa Prudential PLC is currently the centre of attraction among businesses operating in Africa and is focused on providing innovative business solutions to existing problems. The reason for Africa Prudential PLC’s recent prominence is the company’s decision to have Nwosu steer its operations as the Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

According to the communique released by the company, Nwosu is expected to take over from Mr. Obong Idiong, the former MD/ CEO of Africa Prudential PLC. Starting March 1, 2024, Nwosu will be in charge of moving the company forward, starting with where Idiong stopped and bringing her wealth of experience to the board.

The company’s confidence in Nwosu is understandable.

She has a strong and convincing career profile in the financial services industry and has crystallised her skills in business planning, analytics, banking, accounting, and options. It is on this account that she served as African Prudential PLC’s Chief Operating Officer (COO) between 2010 and 2022. It is also because of her skills and experience that she occupied the enviable position of Head of Stakeholders Engagement at BUA Group.

Nwosu has proved herself to be an asset in every position held since she served the United Bank of Africa (UBA) as a customer service and teller officer as far back as the early ‘90s. She has come far in her corporate journey and acquired more colourful certifications, like that of the Lagos Business School’s Senior Management Program and as a Fellow of the Institute of Capital Market Registrars.

Certainly, Africa Prudential PLC is set to take the next step forward. With Nwosu at the helm of affairs, the company’s prospects will noticeably change for the better.

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LOUD WHISPERS

with JOSEPH EDGAR (09095325791)

Cardoso and Edun: A Nobel Prize in Economics Loading “Government magic.” Now if you read further in the textbook, you will also see that nothing is being said or written about the supply side of the economy. Our authors keep struggling with the management of a continuously depleting trough of forex complementing it with debts instead of pushing their influence to see how we can earn more.

Well, the results are there for everyone to see, no need to rehash them here again. The results are apparent and very glaring and the consequences are dire. It’s looking like these two authors have just written one of the most useless books ever on economics and anybody who studies this book for WAEC or NECO, na F9 straight I tell you.

Na wa.

How many of you readers read O.A. Lawal or Ayo Teriba in school? Those were classic economics textbooks that you would have read if you were in secondary schools in the 80s. Well, for the first time since I left school, I went in search of those books when I saw the naira hit N1,450 against the dollar.

It looks like the present managers of our economy have written a new economics textbook to replace those classics. My people, what we are seeing today defies all economic logic - a statement ascribed to former President Babangida when he threw it all at the economy and the thing was responding one kind.

What we now have is a new economic textbook authored by Cardoso and Edun

and it contains very new theories on the economy. In their world, the official market has now surpassed the parallel market in exchange. This is the first time ever anywhere in the world where this is happening. If you continue reading their textbook, you will see that fuel subsidy has been removed and fuel is now brought in through forces of demand and supply but guess what, according to Cardoso and Edun, as the naira keeps falling on a daily, the international spot price of fuel keeps going up, the landing cost keeps going up but pump price remains the same and yet subsidy has been removed.

This is what Fela used to call

RENO OMOKRI: NO EMOTIONS, IT’S BUSINESS This my brother can be very bullish once he secures a target.

He usually will rail and attack mostly with emotional gibberish without most times even looking very clearly at the issues. For him, it is all a play to the gallery not minding the consequences if at all.

His recent attacks on MTN got me thinking. Apparently, he has jumped on the side of the “indigenous” telecoms firm who is said to be owing MTN a huge pile of funds and have refused or neglected to pay, making the regulatory body approve at some point its disconnection.

Reno, obviously on a script, jumped in support with very emotional and pseudo nationalistic arguments that fell by the wayside without any effect. According to what I have read, he is of the opinion that the NCC should be on the side of the indigenous company simply because it is a “Nigerian” company. He is also quoted to have asked if the South African President will take sides

with a Nigerian firm over a South African one?

Normally, one would ignore all of this because on the face of it, it just looks like the ramblings of a toddler but with his influence and reach, it just makes sense that one responds if for nothing else but to put the facts on the table.

MTN has Nigerian shareholders.

Over 30% of its shareholders are Nigerians making it even more Nigerian than the one he is defending who to the best of my knowledge has only one Nigerian shareholder.

Secondly, MTN has paid out dividends in excess of N2.8 trillion to its shareholders.

Nigerian shareholders taking up 30% of that. His principal has not shown any evidence of that to any one single Nigerian shareholder outside of his emotional shareholder base. MTN has made over N4 trillion capital investments in Nigeria and has paid over N4.2 trillion as taxes to various governments since 2001.

MTN Foundation has invested over N26 billion supporting 40

24 hours after his abduction.

This spate of kidnappings is making one look selfish for seeking the release of General Duru instead of joining the national clarion call for the release of every Nigerian in captivity anywhere in the country.

This has thrown a major confusion into my mind. Is Gen Duru’s life much more important than the others? Should I keep railing for only him and not look like a hypocritical bigot? Won’t people be asking why? Are those other ones not also Nigerians? Don’t they too have families in tears and yearning for their release? Even STILL ON GEN RICHARD DURU’S those of us still walking around, CASE how confident are we that one It’s heading to four months and this brilliant Army General is still day we may not find ourselves in in captivity. We do not even know captivity?

My people, the level of insecurity what to say or do again on this matter especially with the spate of in the land is such that nobody is safe. The government had better kidnappings all over the country. up its game before they come and Just last week, some monarchs were kidnapped and I hear, sadly, kidnap all of us o. may have lost their lives. As if that I have even heard that the Army high command has refused to was not enough, students were also kidnapped in the same Ekiti. grant General Duru’s wife an audience and that even the Imo The Lagos PDP Chairman was uniquely lucky as he was released State Government where he had

Omokri

Duru

Cardoso

Edun

million Nigerians so far.

So, my brother, before you jump in and begin to misinform people, look at the figures. We cannot be out there fighting for and begging for FDIs and the one that is on ground we keep hounding them like this.

Did it cross your mind that one of the very first things Mr. President did upon his inauguration was to rush to India and the New York Stock exchange to woo FDIs or did you think he went to star in an Indian movie? Oga abeg rest.

Adegboyega

Shodimu

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gone to consult and from where he was picked up has also not been able to grant the hapless woman audience. If this is true, then this can only be described as a very sad and poor development.

May God keep us all well. That is all I can say at this juncture. Thank you.

PASTOR TOBI ADEGBOYEGA: A DIFFERENT KIND OF PASTOR Let me quickly give you guys one gist. That was how my sister Azuka Ogujiuba reached out that she was having a virtual sit down with the famous Pastor Tobi of London the other day. Me, I have heard so much about this pastor that I could not resist the urge to be part of the session. She accepted but warned me that this was her interview and as such I would mostly just be listening. I quickly agreed o and jumped on the talk.

After a bit of rescheduling due to the oga’s tight schedule, the session was held. It was on “google meets” and the pastor showed up in one very beautiful brown tunic that looked like something Seal the musician would wear.

Since na “mo gbo, mo ya” I do, I cannot begin to give you guys all the gist but to just say sha that the convo which took all of two hours was very rich. The issues touched were the relationship between Church and State, succession in churches, the controversies around his person and church and also his many philanthropic activities.

He remained calm, marshalling his points very deliberately and with no sense of hurry and came out of the whole experience with a huge pass mark. I liked the way he marshalled out his points and with the way he delivered without really avoiding some of the very tough questions that Aunty Azuka threw at him.

Me, I just sat and listened and asked only the two questions I was allowed to ask. I can’t wait for the full interview to be published because some of his responses were quite explosive.

Oya Azuka, over to you o, let’s have the full gist, can’t wait.

AHMED ODODO AND DISTURBING NEWS FROM KOGI We are getting very disturbing news coming out of Kogi. I don’t even know what to believe again especially with the stark raving mad social media. What I have read on social media, if it is not a skit, then it portends very serious danger for not only the people of Kogi State but the rest of us.

I have seen reports saying that the newly sworn in Governor of Kogi State, Mr. Ododo has set up an office for the immediate past governor of the state and was allegedly quoted as saying that “if I give instruction and the instruction comes from the immediate past governor, you all obey him and ignore mine.”

This cannot be true. This must be “fabu” from the internet as no sane elected official can ever say or do something like this. Never.

But then again, with the way that one has been prostrating all over the place for his predecessor, you

may want to start looking at that statement again o.

Abi didn’t you see his deputy and his wife after being sworn in walking straight to their “oga” and prostrating flat out for him in the full glare of the world.

Mbok, that one I saw with my two korokoro eyes, making me want to believe the above assertion because if you can lie down like that for a man in public complete with your wife in tow, what is stopping you from handing over

FEMI OTEDOLA: CONGRATULATIONS MR. CHAIRMAN It was Ebenezer Obey that sang “Board member, Board member, Board member” in the 80s and that was what came to mind the moment the announcement of Mr. Otedola as the new Chairman of the humongous FBN Group hit the airwaves.

Funnily, I had engaged its Group Managing Director, the very handsome Nnamdi Okonkwo the other day, to better explain to me what this group structure meant. Banks very recently have adopted the Group structure which in my naïve eyes allowed them to hold on to power even after their prescribed tenor.

But as Nnamdi explained, FBN Group was of international standard as it met both in structure and operations worldclass requirements for the Institution. As he explained, the group only had a supervisory role to play with its own Board and not being involved in the day-to-day running of the bank.

The bank only sends in periodic reports and they in turn look

Otedola

through and make sure that all rules are being followed to the latter.

It is this structure that Mr. Otedola has emerged as chairman. In recent years, Mr. Otedola has built a reputation of being a Mr. Fix It. Buying into funny firms and insisting on corporate governance which in turn would impact on the profitability and making him the torch bearer of investors. It is no wonder that he is a major market mover as everybody including experienced traders now watch his every move before they take positions in the market.

I personally really think that his appointment or is it election will go a long way to further securing FBN group as the leading player in its space and also as the major partner in our push for national economic salvation.

Congrats sir and where is the party? Don’t do anything behind me o, there will be fight o, I have said my own.

the people’s mandate to him? Well, that is if the mandate was actually given by the people in the first place. Na wa.

PASTOR ADEFARASIN: A STORY OF FEARFUL CAUTION In all of my writing career which includes a very rich stint in looking for trouble, I never believed that I can write a story with fear. This story, by right I am supposed to let go but it is too sweet not to take the risk. So here goes.

I don’t know how it beat me when it came out. I just heard yesterday that this very handsome man of God was said to have been involved in a traffic fracas. They said that a commuter bus had scratched his luxurious car and in a fit of anger he was said to have come down and allegedly smashed the windows of the bus, thereby injuring people and there after driving off leaving the public in shock.

Now this story is too preposterous to be real abi? A whole gentleman of God? A man with careful finesse? So, in fear, I dug deeper. I needed to be very sure before I stuck out my neck. I went to google and truly the story was everywhere complete with videos of a man said to be his PA begging the people for calm.

Now I still did not have the confidence because the blogs that carried the story were not major, but the video clip of the man who was said to be his PA put some credibility to the story as he was begging for patience and the people were saying – why would a man of God do this? One even said, “me that I am a Muslim, I can never do this.”

Well, like I have said, I cannot comment on it just yet because of fear and the fact that if they come at me, all these blogs will run away but then again, the story is just too juicy not to be told.

If you want more details, please buy N100 data and do your own google search, don’t come and put me in trouble, I never pay my pikin school fees. Thank you.

YEMI SHODIMU: A HAPPY THESPIAN During the week, the man I call the Yoruba Denzel marked his 64th birthday. I had written a satire to commemorate the occasion and had gleefully mentioned that he was 70. Nigerians who will never understand satire started calling him and saying – aghhh, “we did not know you were that old o.

You have good genes o, see as you short, person no go even know that you don reach 70.”

Anyways, let me use this opportunity to state that Yemi is 64 and not 70. I was just doing satire before Nigerian Legion sef come join dey ask am to register as member.

Yemi is like a brother to me. His love for afang is only second to his love for the stage. That he is a brilliant actor cannot be denied by any stretch of the imagination and this is why I want to really say a happy birthday to one of the most talented people that I have ever met in this my life. Congrats bro.

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Adebayo Adeoye bayoolunla@gmail.com; 08054680651

SOCIETY WATCH

Pathetic Fall of Former Lawmaker, Farouk Lawan Farouk Lawan, the infamous politician who was a four-term member of the House of Representatives for the Bagwai/Shanono Federal Constituency of Kano State will always be remembered by many.

Famously described as Mr. Integrity, Lawan exited the exalted chamber in a very controversial circumstance following his indictment for demanding and collecting a $620 million bribe from oil and gas magnate, Femi Otedola. The ugly development became a big blot on his political career and subsequently exposed his Achilles’ heel. Since then, he is said to be striving very hard to regain relevance in the political circle. But the more he tries, the more he gets stuck in the mud.

The diminutive politician reportedly attempted to return to the lower chamber in 2015 for the fifth time, but he was trounced and humiliated by a greenhorn, Sule Aliyu Romo, to represent Shanono/Bagwai Federal Constituency of Kano State at the National Assembly. This evidenced his waning influence in the political

landscape.

Unrelenting, in 2019, he nursed the ambition of contesting for the number one position of Kano.

But the ambition died even in its gestation. The reason was not far-fetched. Lawan was no longer regarded as a reckoning force in the scheme of things in the state. Such is the pathetic situation of Lawan’s political ambition.

The case with Otedola that has dragged on for many years was concluded last week when the once Mr. Integrity’s conviction and jail sentence were affirmed by the Supreme Court.

The Supreme Court, in its unanimous judgement, dismissed his appeal challenging the decision of the Court of Appeal which had also affirmed his conviction by the trial court.

In the lead judgement prepared by John Okoro, but read by Tijjani Abubakar, the Supreme Court held that Mr Lawan’s appeal lacked merit.

With this, it wouldn’t be harsh to say the former politician’s political career has finally been buried, Lawan even before his very eyes.

High-flying Designer, Yutee Rone, Ready to Wow Fashion Buffs at New York Fashion Week Adams

Aare Onakakanfo of Yorubaland, Gani Adams, Celebrates If you ask the Aare Onakakanfo of Yorubaland, Gani Adams, about his most passionate thing in life, his response would most likely be the defence and promotion of Yoruba culture, history and values.

When the topic of discourse is about the Yoruba race, many would surely have good testimonies to say about him.

Adams knows the culture and history of his forefathers like the back of his hands and he has demonstrated so much brilliance in its promotion and sustenance.

That much was on display last Sunday, January 21, 2024, during the sixth anniversary of the installation of Iba Gani Adams as the Aare Onakakanfo.

The expansive and beautifully decorated hall of Time Square Event Centre on Ajao Road, Ikeja, Lagos, was a beauty to behold with the huge number of royals, celebrities and dignitaries who turned out to honour the man fondly called Loogun Ofe by his large followers and admirers.

No fewer than 50 prominent Obas from across Lagos, Ondo, Ogun and beyond were on hand to give honour to whom it is due.

Not left out of the roll call were hundreds of members of the Oodua Progressive Union, a group of Yoruba descendants in the Diaspora formed by the Yoruba generalissimo. On the last count, the group has been launched in 98 countries cutting across America, Europe, Asia and other continents.

Expectedly, the guests were treated to sumptuous meals, ranging from Nigerian dishes to intercontinental, with exotic wines and assorted drinks to wash the meals down.

Rone

Yutee Rone is undoubtedly one of the names synonymous with fashion in Nigeria.

She has often been described as one of the best high-end Africa-based women’s wear designers in the fashion industry.

Though a wife to the billionaire, Julius Rone, a leading gas magnate in Africa, her enterprising soul and inventiveness, have not allowed

her to be a trophy wife. Rather, she has been encouraged to showcase her talent to the world.

Ever since she launched her label many years ago, Yutee has been able to make a lasting statement with her innovation in the industry as she continues to display her uncommon ingenuity. Surely, this has helped her to successfully position her specially designed and unique structural pieces made from the finest quality fabrics and with exceptional attention to detail.

Her brand embraces sophistication, femininity and elegance effortlessly. This has earned extraordinary recognition across the country for being distinctive with her brands The strikingly beautiful woman is well known for her use of experimental fabrics and textiles; unique, vibrant prints and her detailed craftsmanship. Her collections have been displayed on runways in and out of Africa where she receives standing ovations for her creativity and invention as she wowed fashion buffs with her beautiful pieces and never failed

to win hearts at every fashion show.

In a landscape where style and substance often collide, she stands out as a true icon of grace, talent, and ambition. Her impact on the fashion industry in Nigeria and beyond is undeniable, making her a force to be reckoned with in the world of high-end fashion.

Again, for her outstanding accomplishment and indelible mark on the fashion world, the internationally recognised creative mind, will this week rub shoulders with other world-class designers where she will display her collections at the New York Fashion Week 2024, scheduled for Saturday, February 10, 2024.

The three-day event, organised by Runway 7, will be held at the Sony Hall, one of the premiere live concert venues in New York City.

As gathered, Rone would be showcasing some of her most amazing collections that have given her the edge far above other competitors.

Former Nigeria’s Envoy, Sarafa Isola’s New Beautiful Dream “Without ambition one starts nothing.

Without work one finishes nothing. The prize will not be sent to you. You have to win it.” Ralph Waldo Emerson.

The above quote seems to be the watchword of many serious-minded politicians; hence they decide to work assiduously round the clock to actualize their political ambition.

The road to 2027 seems a long journey, but to ambitious politicians, “a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step” says the popular quote. It seems the political calculation for Ogun State’s number one job has commenced in earnest, behind the scenes though, some of the candidates are already busy consulting.

Society Watch gathered that among the top possible contenders for the top job is the immediate past Nigeria High Commissioner to the UK, Sarafa Isola. A source revealed that

the incursion of the top politician has generated discourse among the political elites and the grassroots in the state. This is simply because he is among the top politicians who are calling the shots and in the scheme of things at the moment.

While he has received accolades from those in the know, a source also revealed that his intimidating political resumé has sent jitters to the camps of some of his possible opponents, both in the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP).

It has not come as a surprise that Ambassador Isola is earning accolades for his public service career, which spanned more than 25 years.

This has effectively prepared him for this office and more. Going by his records, the Egba-born diplomat has a history of being a good public servant who in the past has shown to be dutiful, diligent and tenacious with all his assignments.

Isola

When Families and Friends Celebrated Accounting Legend, Muniru Longe, at 85

Longe with daughter

As an Accounting legend, insurance broker and socialite, Chief Muniru Longe is used to fraternising with top professionals and dignitaries.

And so the crowd that assembled at his 85th birthday celebration on Saturday, January 27 truly glittered as they shared memories, laughter, and even a few tears.

It was a splurge of festivities at the Darlington Hall in Ilupeju, Lagos, where family members, friends, top government functionaries and professional colleagues gathered to celebrate this respected elder statesman and great administrator’s landmark birthday. Among the guests were numerous members of top Lagos social clubs like the Island Club, Yoruba Tennis Club and Metropolitan Club — the celebrant is a member of all the clubs.

All his highly successful children were in attendance, led by London-based Insurance Professional, Mrs. Morayo Alalade and her other siblings, including Bunmi Olawale, Deji Longe and Dewunmi Edosio.

They spared no cost in making the event a glamorous one and ensured their beloved dad had a memorable birthday shindig. The whole arrangement was just on point. The food, drinks, and music coupled with the quality of personalities that attended the party, no doubt,

made it a classic one.

Chief Longe was born on January 26, 1939, in Lagos Island. His dad was Chief Sulaimon Longe (the 1st Aare Egbe Omo Timi of Ede) and his mother was Alhaja Nimotali Abeke Longe nee Folami.

Chief Longe, the Asiwaju Aare Egbe Omo Timi of Ede attended Anwar-UlIslam College Agege Lagos from 1956 to 1960. He left for England in March 1962. While in London, he qualified as Chartered Accountant, Chartered Secretary, and earned his Associateship of the Chartered Institute of Bankers (ACIB). He later worked in various establishments until 1967 when he started his professional career with Glanvill Enthoven. In 1969, he was seconded to Nigeria where he continued working at Glanvill Enthoven until his retirement in December 1997 as the company’s first appointed Nigerian Managing Director.

THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ JUNE 24 2012

ARTS & REVIEW A

PUBLICATION

4. 2. 2024

Re-tracing the Milestones of El Anatsui’s Four Scores El Anatsui, now aged 80, soared to fame to become one of Africa’s most influential and successful artists by challenging traditional notions of sculpture. Okechukwu Uwaezuoke reports

S

ometime in 2017, Professor Emeritus El Anatsui welcomed two visitors— Kevin Ejiofor and Dr. Ayo Adewunmi—at his Nsukka studio. These two prominent figures from the Life in My City Art Festival were in town to brief him about the annual youth-focused art extravaganza and, in the course of their conversation, enthusiastically filled him in on the exhilarating progress and vibrant innovations so far of the event, which was just about to stomp into its tenth edition.

While they spoke, the esteemed artist listened with rapt attention to their animated exposé, eagerly taking in every detail and possibly envisioning a brighter future for this artistic endeavour. Nonetheless, he expressed surprise that he had been unaware of this endeavour for so long. His offer to sponsor three of the festival’s category prizes and generously donate enough funds to enable the organisers of the event, often known by its acronym LIMCAF, to sustain the tempo—a gesture that obviously gladdened the two visitors—shouldn’t surprise anyone familiar with his long history of identifying with serious artistic endeavours. Neither should the fact that he has ever since been sponsoring the festival’s top six winners for allexpenses-paid two-week trips to the Senegalese capital for the Dakar Art Biennale, which is otherwise known as Dak’Art. At the latest count, there have been 32 beneficiaries of this largesse so far, and there would be 12 more (six top winners of the competition from each of the preceding years) added to this number this year. According to Dr. Adewunmi, the elderly artist who turns 80 today (February 4) has also supported the Art is Everywhere initiative and the Pan African Circle of Artists (also known as PACA), among several other artistic endeavours, including exhibitions.

True: no cognoscenti in the realm of contemporary art would have needed the gift of prophecy to predict that Anatsui’s one-of-a-kind sculptures were destined to adorn some of the world’s most exalted art spaces and museums, eliciting admiration from enthusiasts and art aficionados alike. Nonetheless, who would have imagined that it was just his peculiar predilection for deciphering art even in the least suspected places that would eventually blaze his trail to international recognition?

That penchant of his for blurring the boundaries of aesthetic canons has been known to be the theme song of his lustrous career from as far back as his keen devotees would remember. It was indeed this predilection for non-

Anatsui with the first LIMCAF beneficiaries of his all-expenses-paid trip to Dakar

Anatsui having breakfast at his hotel with the LIMCAF beneficiaries of his all-expenses-paid trip to Dakar Art Biennale

conformity that ultimately nudged him on to an extraordinary hunt for those elusive “Eureka!” moments. This was also what wrenched him away from the grips of anonymity as the youngest of his father’s 32 children in the small Ghanaian town of Anyako, as well as from the drudgery of an ivory tower existence at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, to celebrity status. It was during his time in Kumasi, Ghana, that he stumbled upon the mesmerising “adinkra” motifs, which prompted a dramatic shift in his view of sculpture. Anatsui, who was no longer constrained by conventional aesthetic standards, came to perceive sculpture as a dynamic inquiry into a subject’s intricate dynamics. His 2007 installation, “Intermittent Signals,”

Anatsui

which took on a remarkably different form for its 2011 display, is a compelling example of this theory in action.

This also explains why he had, in an interview a few years ago, frowned at the apparent fixation of much of the LIMCAF entries on the human body, even as he commended the fact that some of these entries were produced with non-traditional media. “There are more exciting things to do with such media than the human body,” he argued during that interview. “When you go into the art world now, you will see that people have gone beyond depicting human figures.”

His artistic inclination has, in any case, never been known to lean towards depicting human forms. Indeed, none of his works, currently housed in some of the world’s most prestigious museums, like the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the British Museum, and the Smithsonian, adhered to the well-trodden paths of traditional aesthetic canons.

Rather, he has lately come to be known and celebrated for his rippling metal tapestries draped over walls. One notable one was displayed at the 2007 Venice Biennale; another, a 37-foot-high sculpture made of recycled pressed tin and mirrors woven together with copper wire, titled “Broken Bridge II,” was displayed at New York’s High Line, an elevated park built on an old freight rail line in Manhattan in 2012. “El Anatsui has evolved from creating traditional to monumental works that take on modern material wastes to engage, challenge, and dialogue with size space, generating visual experience beyond words,” corroborates Jerry Buhari, a professor of fine art at Ahmadu Bello University’s Fine Art Department.

Of course, he has also held several other notable exhibitions worldwide in high-profile venues in the UK, the US, Germany, France, and Spain, among others. Besides his appearance at the Venice Biennale in 2007 and earlier in 1990, he has also been at the Liverpool Biennale in 2002, the Moscow Biennale in 2009, the 8th Osaka Sculpture Triennale in 1995, the first Johannesburg Biennale in 1995, the 5th Havana Biennale in 1994, and the 5th Gwangju Biennale in 2004, among others.

Back in the Nigerian art scene, he remains one of the leading lights whose works chalk up record-breaking sales at both local and international art auctions and who has significantly impacted several generations of artists. Indeed, the Venice Biennale Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement—one among many of the awards he has received so far—duly “acknowledges not just his recent successes internationally but also his artistic influence amongst two generations of artists working in West Africa.”

EDITOR OKECHUKWU UWAEZUOKE/ okechukwu.uwaezuoke@thisdaylive.com

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THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER FEBRUARY 4, 2024

ARTS & REVIEW\\POT POURRI

Frank Farian and Highlights of a Life Boldly Lived...

Yinka Olatunbosun

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Why Viewers Connect So Well with Blood Vessel Segun Ade-Martins

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lood Vessel is a Play Network Studios production, directed by 0RVHV ,QZDQJ IURP D VWRU\ E\ &KDUOHV 2NSDOHNH ZLWK ZULWLQJ FRQWULEXWLRQV IURP 0RVHV ,QZDQJ DQG 2PRWROD (NHLQGH -DODGH DQG the screenplay by writers Musa -HͿUH\ 'DYLG -XVWLQ 'L[ DQG -RUGDQ 3URVVHU 7KLV VWRU\ IROORZV WKH MRXUQH\ RI ´VL[ SHRSOH who stow away on a mysterious ship” on a course WR D (XURSHDQ SRUW 6LQFH LWV H[FOXVLYH UHOHDVH RQ 'HFHPEHU LW KDV EHHQ RQ WKH 7RS 7HQ &KDUW RI 1HWÁL[·V PRVW SRSXODU ÀOPV LQ 1LJHULD ,WV SUHPLVH LQWHUWZLQHV WKH VWUXJJOHV RI WKH UHDO OLIH 1LJHU 'HOWD $ YRLFH RYHU PRQRORJXH LQYLWHV XV by giving us a brief history of how communities KDYH VXͿHUHG IURP WKH SROOXWLRQ RI RLO H[SORUDWLRQ When a riot breaks out in a town, star-crossed lovers, two brothers responsible for the circumstances of the riot, and another set of two brothers from a QHLJKERXULQJ WRZQ DOO ÀQG WKHPVHOYHV FRQÀQHG in a cramped compartment below deck.

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From Play to Portfolio: A Voice Actor's Personal Journey to Recognition Yinka Olatunbosun

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here was something oddly familiar about his voice. When 5HPL 2OXWLPD\LQ ÀQDOO\ EHFDPH more audible on the phone, his story unpacked bits of his life and career. Mostly revolving around his newly acquired international recognition occasioned by his voiceover ZRUN RQ WKH DQLPDWLRQ VKRUW ÀOP $MDND /RVW LQ Rome, the conversation was lengthy, and time didn't seem enough. %RUQ \HDUV DJR LQ /DJRV 2OXWLPD\LQ JUHZ up in the VHS era where “dubbing” was almost every child's favourite pastime. “One of my best friends while growing up was the television,” he GLVFORVHG ´$OVR , KDYH EHHQ UHDGLQJ HDUO\ $QG , G been watching a lot of narration cartoons, though that narrate children's stories and things like that.

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life-long friendships.”

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THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER FEBRUARY 4, 2024

CICERO

Editor: Ejiofor Alike SMS: 08066066268 email:ejiofor.alike@thisdaylive.com

IN THE ARENA

Stalemate in Plateau Assembly over Supreme Court Verdict The judgment of the Supreme Court, which upheld the election of Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State is fuelling crisis in the state House of Assembly and unsettling the state, writes Seriki Adinoyi

T

he All Progressives Congress (APC) last week charged the Speaker of Plateau House of Assembly, Gabriel Dawan, to swear in the party’s 16 members affirmed last year by the Court of Appeal as duly elected.

Addressing journalists in Abuja, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Felix Morka, said the speaker’s refusal to swear in the 16 members was “violently contemptuous of the authority of the Court of Appeal, the highest court for the determination of election petition matters as it concerns the House of Assembly.”

The 16 members were issued Certificates of Return by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on December 24, 2023, after the Election Petitions Tribunal and the Court of Appeal sacked 16 members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The APC’s warning came two weeks after attempt by the 16 sacked lawmakers elected on the platform of the PDP in the state assembly to make good their threat to resume legislative duties caused a stir in the state While addressing journalists in Jos, the state capital, the 16 sacked lawmakers had cautioned their colleagues on the platform APC against resuming duties, claiming they are the authentic members of the state assembly, voted into office by the people of the state.

They cited the Supreme Court’s judgment that overturned the decision of the Court of Appeal and reinstated Governor Caleb Mutfwang as the duly elected governor of the state.

The Court of Appeal’s decision, which was nullified by the Supreme Court, had led to the dismissal of the 16 lawmakers and six members of the National Assembly.

But by the time the 16 sacked lawmakers arrived the assembly complex the next day, they met heavy resistance from a detachment of policemen and other security operatives who had taken over the premises of the Government House and prevented them from going into the chambers of the assembly.

Addressing journalists after emerging from the chamber, the Speaker of the state assembly, Gabriel Dewan, advised the sacked lawmakers to be law-abiding, saying he was in possession of the court order mandating him to maintain status quo.

Recall that the Supreme Court while setting aside the judgment of the Court of Appeal, which sacked Governor Mutfwang, had lamented that the judgment of the appellate court had caused many to

Ariwoola suffer injustice.

The people who suffered the injustice more were the state and federal lawmakers who were also sacked by the Appeal Court as they had no chance to appeal the judgments as Mutfwang did.

The composition of the 24-member assembly before the Appeal Court judgment was: PDP-16, APCseven and Young Progressive Party (YPP)-one. But after the judgment, which sacked all the PDP members and gave their seats to the APC, the number of APC members rose to 23 with one YPP member.

But before the PDP lawmakers were sacked by the court, the Speaker, who was a member of the PDP immediately resigned and the only YPP member of the assembly, Dewan, was elected as Speaker with the support of the PDP members, and immediately sworn in.

Dewan immediately suspended plenary indefinitely shortly before the PDP members were sacked. Since then, he has refused to reconvene the assembly on the ground that the complex is under renovation.

But the Supreme Court, while delivering judgment, regretted that despite several decisions of the Supreme Court that tribunals and courts lacked

the jurisdiction to dabble into the internal affairs of political parties, some justices could still go ahead to sack a winner of an election on the grounds of political parties’ primaries, nomination or sponsorship.

The apex court reversed the decision of the appellate court for being perverse because the issue of the primary election that produced Mutfwang was outside the jurisdiction of the tribunal and the Appeal Court.

Justice Emmanuel Agim, who read the judgment, said that the issue of sponsorship had elapsed long ago, as the law stipulates that a person challenging the nomination or sponsorship of a candidate for an election must institute the legal action within 14 days from which such illegality was said to have occurred.

The presiding judge, Justice John Okoro probably referring to Plateau lawmakers, lamented that “a lot of people have suffered” because of the wrongful judgments of the appellate court which had sacked several legislators who won elections on the platform of the PDP. Justice Helen Ogunwumiju also berated the appellate court for going into the issue of nomination

and sponsorship, despite several decisions of the apex court to the effect that a political party cannot challenge the primary election of another.

Since the judgments of the apex court, there has been outrage and frustration by Nigerians, especially the electorate from Plateau State.

While some have called for the outright sack of the panel of the Court of Appeal that sat on the appeals, others alleged that the President of the court, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem was unduly influenced by politicians to cause the miscarriage of justice.

They alleged that she used the judgments to compensate her kinsman, Senator Simon Lalong, who had allegedly favoured her.

They cited the fact that while many states had two panels sitting to hear appeals on national and state assemblies, Justice Dongban-Mensem only allowed a single panel to hear the appeals in Plateau State.

This enabled the justices on the panel to effectively sack all the PDP lawmakers in the state.

Discussing the issue, a senior lawyer, Chidi Odinkalu said that Mr. Lalong appointed Justice Dongban-Mensem’s daughter, Buetanaan Mandy Dongban-Bassi, a judge of the High Court of Plateau State, adding that her mother sat on the National Judicial Council (NJC) panel, which approved her appointment. “Two years later, in September 2023, the same NJC sent Buetnaan’s husband and Justice Dongban-Mensem’s son-in-law, Paul to the Court of Appeal.”

Meanwhile, some aggrieved politicians and other stakeholders have urged the affected legislators to approach the NJC to compel the Court of Appeal to review the judgments.

The judicial crisis has caused growing tension in the state assembly where the APC candidates that currently hold the Certificates of Return are mounting pressure on the Speaker of the assembly to reconvene and swear them in at once.

They believe that further delay to their swearingin may count against them with the rising agitation for the NJC to review the Appeal Court judgments.

But Dewan had insisted that the 16 APC lawmakers would not be recognised until the interpretation of the Supreme Court judgment, which ruled that the actions and judgment of the Appeal Court were faulty and an abuse of court processes. He stressed that he would only recognise eight members out of the 24 lawmakers.

For peace to return to the state assembly, the miscarriage of justice on the PDP lawmakers has to be addressed, especially now that it is obvious that the judgments which sacked them were compromised.

P O L I T I CA L N OT E S

Obaseki’s Support for Ighodalo Faces Threat

Uzodimma

Obaseki

GovernorGodwinObasekiofEdoState’sbackingof AsueIghodalo’sgovernorshipbidappearstobefacing threat,forcingthegovernortoinitiatereconciliatory moveswiththeMinisteroftheFederalCapitalTerritory (FCT), Mr. NyesomWike.

Ighodaloisseekingthegovernorshipticketofthe Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State in the February 22, 2024 primary election.

ItwasgatheredthatObaseki’speacemoveswere informed by the reality of a strong opposition from Omoregie Ogbeide-Ihama, a former member of the HouseofRepresentativesandthepreferredcandidate of Dan Orbih,Wike’s key ally in Edo State Obaseki’sdecisiontomeetwithWike,hiserstwhile politicalenemywasjustanecessarystephehadtomake to clear the way for his candidate since the minister appears to be gearing up for a political battle with

the governor.

Although Ighodalo has expressed confidence in winning the party’s ticket, going into the primary againstOgbeide-IhamaandObaseki’sdeputy,Phillip ShaibuisviewedinObaseki’scampasadelicategame.

AccordingtothedealofferedbyObaseki,Ighodalo wouldbewillingtopickOgbeide-Ihamaashisrunning mate.

Asourceprivytothemeeting,statedthatObaseki sought “reconciliation” and apologised for previous misunderstanding between them.

But Wike, who apparently has been waiting for Obaseki, reportedly told him point-blank that he would not have any dealings with him because he is notknowntohavekeptfaithwithanyonethatassisted him in the past.

TheCablereportedthathethendemandeda“level-

playing field so that the most acceptable candidate can win.”

Obaseki fell out with Wike in 2020 shortly after defectingtothePDPfromtheAllProgressivesCongress(APC)andsecuringhisnewparty’sgovernorship ticket to run for a second term.

He had left the APC after a face-off with Adams Oshiomhole,whodecidedtobackIzeIyamu,formerly of the PDP, in the 2020 governorship election. Of course, Obaseki won his re-election bid but fell out withWike thereafter.

InthepresidentialprimaryofthePDPaheadofthe 2023generalelection,ObasekibackedAbubakarAtiku against Wike for the ticket.

It is not clear if Wike will accept Obaseki’s olive branch,whichissaidtobefacilitatedbytheGovernor of Adamawa State, Ahmadu Fintiri.

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THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER FEBRUARY 4, 2024

BRIEFINGNOTES As Fubara, Rivers Lawmakers’ Feud Deepens Despite the peace deal brokered by President Bola Tinubu, which halted the planned impeachment of Governor SiminalayiFubaraofRiversState,therecentresolutionsofthestateHouseofAssemblystrippingthegovernorofthe powertoappointcaretakercommitteesforlocalgovernmentareasandreversinghisrecentappointmentofheadsof agencies in the state have shown that the lawmakers have not sheathed their swords, Ejiofor Alike reports

W

hen Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State was given the short end of the stick in the peace accord brokered by President Bola Tinubu to resolve the political crisis in the state last December, many analysts had believed that the state House of Assembly would allow the governor to exercise the powers enjoyed by other serving governors and his predecessors.

President Tinubu had presided over a meeting at the State House, Abuja, of critical stakeholders in the politics of the state where the crisis between Fubara and his godfather and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, was resolved.

At the end of the meeting, an eight-point communique was jointly signed by Fubara; Wike; Deputy Governor of the state, Prof Ngozi Odu; National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Hon. Martin Amaewhule; PDP Chairman in the state, Aaron Chukwuemeka and his APC counterpart, Tony Okocha.

The communique had directed that all matters instituted in the courts by Fubara, and his team, in respect of the political crisis in the state, be withdrawn immediately.

While all impeachment proceedings initiated against the governor by the state House of Assembly should be dropped immediately, the communique said the leadership of the state House of Assembly as led by Amaewhule should be recognised alongside the 27 members who resigned from the PDP. Fubara was also directed to re-present the state’s budget to a properly constituted state House of Assembly, while the names of all commissioners in the Rivers State Executive Council who resigned their appointments because of the political crisis in the state should be resubmitted to the House of Assembly for approval.

Among other resolutions, which were also not in favour of the governor, the communique also directed that there should not be a caretaker committee for the local governments in the state, while the dissolution of the local government administration by the governor was rendered null and void.

While many Nigerians, especially Fubara’s loyalists and other anti-Wike elements had condemned the resolutions and urged the governor to reject the peace accord on the grounds that he was shortchanged, the governor had declared that he accepted the terms of the deal for peace to reign in the state.

In a statewide broadcast to mark the 2023

Fubara Christmas celebration, Fubara said the terms of the pact were not as bad as perceived by people.

“It is certainly not a death sentence. It offers some way towards lasting peace and stability in our dear state,” Fubara reportedly said.

Fubara further revealed that both parties in the crisis had taken bold steps in the implementation of the presidential proclamation, heightening the belief that the political crisis in the state was over.

However, with the political developments in the state since the peace accord was signed, particularly the recent resolutions of the state’s lawmakers, the crisis appears far from over.

First, the lawmakers had recently stripped the governor of power to appoint caretaker committees for local government areas in the state after rejecting the governor’s veto against the legislation.

The lawmakers overwhelmingly voted against Fubara’s veto, before passing the bill barring the governor from appointing caretaker committees

for LGAs into law.

The action of the lawmakers has effectively barred Fubara from exercising the power enjoyed by other serving and past governors in the country, including his predecessor, Wike.

The three-year tenure of the current council officials in the state who were elected in 2021 will expire within the first quarter of this year.

The Speaker of the assembly, Amaewhule, had during plenary, read four letters addressed to him by the governor where Fubara declined assent to four new bills, which had been sent to him for assent.

Citing Section 100, subsection 5 of the Nigerian Constitution, the lawmakers said the assent of the governor was not required for the passage into law of the said bills.

The section states that, “where the governor withholds assent and the bill is again passed by the House of Assembly by two-thirds majority, the bill shall become law and the assent of the

Governor shall not be required.”

The speaker accused the governor of not planning to conduct local government elections in the state.

The speaker said: “The key thing here is that this law removes the power of the governor to appoint caretaker committee chairmen for the local governments; the governor is not happy that we are removing his powers to appoint caretaker chairmen.”

The lawmakers also passed into law three other bills, which the speaker said were vetoed by the governor. They are: Rivers State Traditional Rulers Amendment Law; the Rivers State Advertisement and Use of State- Owned Property Prohibition repeal law; and the Rivers State Funds Management and Financial Autonomy Law. Being the first time that the pro-Wike state assembly has overrode Fubara’s veto, the lawmakers’ action was an indication of unending political crisis, despite Tinubu’s peace deal.

Indications that the state lawmakers were determined to tackle the governor on all fronts further emerged when they asked the governor to withdraw some appointments, which they described as “illegal.”

In a letter addressed to the governor and signed by the speaker, Amaewhule, the lawmakers rejected three appointments, including the appointment of Goodlife Ben as the acting chairperson of the Rivers State Local Government Service Commission.

The speaker said Ben’s appointment contravened Section 44(3) of the Rivers State Local Government Law No 5 of 2018, while the appointment of Ine Briggs as the acting director-general of the Bureau for Public Procurement contravened Sections 5(1) of the Rivers State Public Procurement Law No. 4 of 2008.

The state House of Assembly further said that the appointment of Tonte Davies as Acting Administrator of a non-existent New Cities Development Authority (NCDA) is not backed by any legislation, stressing that the governor cannot on his own or by executive fiat create this agency without legislation from the state assembly.

The lawmakers said the appointments violate the Nigerian Constitution and other extant laws.

“We call on you to withdraw these appointments without further delay,” the lawmakers ordered the governor.

Political analysts believe that all these allegations of constitutional breaches made against Fubara for exercising powers that are enjoyed by other governors were not only signs of frosty relationship between him and the state lawmakers, they also showed that the impeachment plot against the governor is still on the cards.

NOTES FOR FILE

When Atiku, Makinde Returned to the Trenches

Makinde

The presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 general election, Atiku Abubakar and Governor Seyi MakindeofOyoStaterecentlyreturnedtothe trenches after what seemed like a ceasefire.

Before and during the elections, the G-5 governors of the PDP, of which Makinde was a member, had refused to support Atiku’s presidential bid and had also embarked on verbalattackstodestroythePDPpresidential candidate’s chances of winning the election.

However, since the end of the elections, there has been a ceasefire.

But Makinde reopened the wounds last week when he lambasted Atiku for allegedly failing to reach out to him over the recent explosion that rocked Ibadan.

Speaking when the presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi,

who paid him a visit in Ibadan over the incident, Makinde said out of the three candidates in the 2023 presidential election, only Atiku had failed to call him or send him text message.

“I am particularly grateful because the musketeers that went for the presidential election have reached out to me.The president has called me; you have reached out to me, but my own party candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has not called or even sent a text message.

“And I am saying it openly, so that our leaders will know that there is time for politics, you have a time for governance and you have a time for humanity,” the governor reportedly told Obi. But in a swift response, Atiku, in a statement by his media adviser, Paul Ibe, clarified

that his principal was among the first set of leaders to commiserate with the governor and the people of Oyo State over the tragedy.

Ibe said Atiku issued a condolence message over the Ibadan explosion on January 17, less than 24 hours after the incident, where he shared his commiseration and empathy with the people and government of Oyo State over the incident.

He said perhaps the governor was too busy to take track of media reports on the incident.

But it is particularly curious what the governor was expecting. Why did he not receive Obi quietly and cleverly leave Atiku out of their conversation? The same Atiku he betrayed and failed to support during the2023presidentelection?ThesameAtikuwhotried to see him during the election and received to see?

Since after the election, has he cared to call Atiku?

What is special about him now that he is bothered about his empathy?

59

THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER FEBRUARY 4, 2024

CICERO/ISSUE

General Musa

Ribadu

Labaja

Insecurity and Calls for State of Emergency The increasing spate of insecurity, which has almost brought the country to its knees, has made the calls on the federal government to declare a state of emergency on security to persist, Adedayo Akinwale writes

I

t is obvious that the biggest problem Nigeria currently faces beyond the parlous state of the economy is the general insecurity. From North to East and West to South, it has been a story of sorrow, tears and blood as the lingering insecurity pervades the land. No day passes by without a story of one Nigerian killed or kidnapped by the blood-thirsty bandits whose modus operandi is to kill, maim and kidnap for ransom.

Initially, their nefarious activities and heinous crimes were restricted to the North-west where mining cartels fuel banditry to keep their businesses running. This was done primarily to divert the attention of the government. Most states in the North-west where people have suffered banditry for years was as a result of mining activities going on in the affected states.

The criminal elements later graduated to kidnaping secondary school and university students for ransom in the northern part of the country. Later, they permanently relocated their crime base to the highways where they kidnap scores of travellers almost on a daily basis with reckless abandon.

While a lot of people minimised their travelling because of kidnapping, the bandits decided to hunt for their prey in their houses and kidnap them for ransom.

It was based on this alarming trend that 48 Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Nigeria under the auspices of the Civil Society Joint Action Group last Monday called on President Bola Tinubu to declare a state of emergency on kidnapping and other forms of terrorism.

The coalition lamented that at least 2,423 people have been killed, while 1,872 persons have been abducted since the beginning of President Tinubu’s administration.

The coalition was of the opinion that the president should promptly prosecute the 400 sponsors of terrorism arrested under former President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration.

Moreso, it called on the president to uncover and prosecute those responsible for the misappropriation of the $460 million earmarked for

the provision of CCTV cameras in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The coalition lamented that over the past decade and a half, insecurity in Nigeria has spiralled due to a variety of violent phenomena, including but not limited to terrorist activities in the entire northern region of the country, terror pillages otherwise known as ‘banditry’ in the North-west, killing of farmers in the Middle Belt including the Benue Valley, secessionist struggles in the South-east, piracy in the southern coast of the country, inter-communal attacks, political violence, cult-gang violence and kidnapping.

It noted that these forms of insecurity have jeopardised the security and wellbeing of Nigerians, and have progressively deteriorated over the years.

For instance, recently, 30 villagers were abducted in an attack on Tashar Nagule village of Batsari Local Government Area (LGA) of Katsina State. This came on the heels of the abduction of 23 people in Kawu community in Bwari Area Council of the FCT on January 11.

Similarly, 50 people, including 36 women were abducted in an attack on the Magizawa community in Kaura Namoda LGA of Zamfara State.

Over 400 people were also killed in repeated attacks on communities in Mangu LGA of Plateau State, including the gruesome massacre of over 200 people in communities in Bokkos and Barkin-Ladi LGAs on the eve of Christmas in 2023.

Meanwhile, 30 passengers were abducted near Katari along the Kaduna-Abuja highway, 45 passengers were kidnapped in Orokam on the Benue-Enugu route underscore the gravity of the situation.

The story was the same in the nation’s capital where several communities in the FCT and neigbouring communities with Niger State are under siege, as entire families and in some cases, communities are taken hostage.

The gory story also continued on Monday with the kidnapping of five pupils of Apostolic Faith Group of Schools, Emure Ekiti, and four staff members. At the moment, their abductors are demanding N100 million as ransom for the

release of the nine victims.

Their kidnapping followed the killing two Ekiti monarchs — the Onimojo of Imojo, Oba Olatunde Olusola, and the Elesun of Esun Ekiti, Oba Babatunde Ogunsakin, while the Alara of Ara Ekiti, Oba Adebayo Fatoba, narrowly escaped.

The traditional rulers were returning from a function in Kogi State when their vehicles ran into the suspected kidnappers who were operating on the highway between Ipao and Oke Ako in the Ikole LGA of Ekiti State.

Unfortunately, banditry, terrorism and kidnapping have adversely discouraged farmers from going to their farms, thereby not only fuelling hunger and poverty.

However, the ugly trend received the attention of the National Assembly on resumption of plenary last Tuesday after one month break for the New Year. The lawmakers lamented the spate of insecurity in the country and noted that urgent actions were needed to avoid escalation.

To this end, the Senate re-invoked its earlier resolution to summon the service chiefs and heads of security agencies in the country to find out efforts being made to address the situation and what had been hampering their works.

At the same time, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, has urged President Tinubu to take tough decisions to curtail the rising insecurity in the country “Indeed, the time has come for the president to demand greater performance and accountability from our service chiefs and all security and enforcement agencies. I implore the president not to shy away from making the tough decisions,” Tajudeen noted.

The spokesman for the House of Representatives and lawmaker representing Ekiti North 1 (Ikole / Oye) Federal Constituency, Akin Rotimi broke down in tears on the floor of the House over the killings of two traditional rulers in Ekiti State.

The lawmaker noted that there has been an increase in criminal activities in Ekiti North 1 (Ikole / Oye) Federal Constituency in recent times, resulting in the loss of lives and property.

Surprisingly, while the federal government was quick to freeze the bank accounts of donors

and recipients of funding for #EndSARS, it has failed to take concrete action to protect citizens against organised crime.

Against this background, a former VicePresident Atiku Abubakar has slammed Tinubu for going on a private visit to France while insecurity had taken over the country.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate in the 2023 election, who took to his verified X account, however, asked Tinubu to step aside if he could not handle the affairs of the country, saying Nigeria “doesn’t need a tourist-in-chief” at this time.

He lamented the spate of kidnapping and banditry, which he claimed had overtaken the country, while the president was in France.

Atiku said: “Tinubu is playing fiddle while Nigeria is drowning in the ocean of insecurity.

To imagine that the Commander-in-Chief is on a so-called private visit while kidnappers kill a nursing mother and grandmother in Abuja for failing to pay N90 million ransom and two monarchs killed in Ekiti, among other regular tragedies besetting Nigerians.

“If the shoes are too big for Emilokan, he should step aside. Nigeria does not need another tourist-in-chief. The country needs 24/7 leadership to confront the pervasive insecurity and collapsing economy.”

In swift response, the presidency lambasted Atiku for accusing President Tinubu of fiddling in the face of mounting security and economic challenges confronting the country, insisting the president was on top of domestic affairs.

“President Tinubu did not travel without informing Nigerians of his whereabouts. He announced a private visit to France and announced a return date,” Onanuga said.

With the new low that the country has attained, no one can deny the fact that the country is gradually sliding into chaos. Apart from declaring a state of emergency on kidnapping, which has been canvassed for by Nigerians, the federal government should designate kidnappers as a terror group.

If the federal government is serious about making any headway and putting an end to kidnapping and banditry in the country, it must

60

THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER FEBRUARY 4, 2024

INTERNATIONAL

France and Morocco in Nigeria’s Foreign Policy Calculations: The Challenge for Tinubuplomacy

D

ay after day, Tinubuplomacy is challenged by varying policy threats in the area of policy reform, national and regional integration.

When President BolaAhmed Tinubu (PBAT) became President of Nigeria on May 29, 2023, his first policy pronouncement was the annulment of the controversial fuel subsidy, which a school of thought says is an economic fraud.

Nigerians are still suffering from the fraudulent controversy.

Another policy, also with foreign policy implication, is the diplomacy of smart delegations and convoys, adopted following public complaints. For example, 1,411 Nigerians participated in the COP28 Climate Change Conference and Summit held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE). In self-defence, PBAT explained that only 422 of the 1,411 delegates were sponsored by the Government. This was not good enough to appease the public. PBAT has been compelled to give special instruction on the matter. As noted by Presidential spokesman, Ajuri Ngelale, ‘the official trips that will be undertaken within the country, that is when Mr. President or the Vice President travels to any State within the country, the massive bills that accrued due to allowance and estacode for every security detail coming from Abuja, going and travelling into those states, will be massively cut due to the directive of the President…’

Tunji Adegboyega, in his column (The Nation, Sunday January 14, 2024, p.11), quoted Ajuri Ngelale as follows: ‘invariably, not more than 25 persons would accompany the president fromAbuja in any part of the country he’s travelling to, the Vice President 15, while the First Lady and the Vice President’s wife would have 10 persons each. ‘As regards foreign trips, ‘Tinubu’s delegation will now be capped at 20 people, down from the previous 50-man delegation. The Vice President, the First Lady and the Vice President’s wife are entitled to just five members each.

Every Minister is limited to having just four members of staff on any foreign trip, while chief executive officers of government agencies are limited to two.’

Even though the monitoring of the policy is left to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, 100% compliance still remains the challenge. More so are the factors of France, Morocco and Mauritania in Nigeria’s foreign policy.

VIE INTERNATIONALE with

Bola A. Akinterinwa Telephone : 0807-688-2846

e-mail: bolyttag@yahoo.com

MauritanianLessonandFranco-MoroccanThreats One major threat to Nigeria’s Tinubuplomacy is not only the intended official withdrawal of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger Republic from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), but also their intended withdrawal from the UEMOA (Union Économique et Monétaire Ouest Africaine, that is, West African Economic and Monetary Union) which uses the CFA currency pegged to the Euro. The withdrawal of the three countries from the ECOWAS has the great potential to seriously undermine political cohesion, economic integration, and African Union’s Agenda 2063. If we admit that unity is strength, then disunity cannot but be an expression of weakness.

This potentiality exists because Nigeria does not appear to have learnt any good lessons from the Mauritanian experience.

When the ECOWAS was established in 1975 to fast track regional economic integration, it had sixteen original members: Nigeria as main sponsor and Togo as secondary sponsor, Benin Republic, Burkina Faso (formerly Upper Volta), Cape Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, Gambia (The), Ghana, Guinea Bissau, Guinea Conakry, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Niger Republic, Senegal, Sierra Leone, and Togo. The weakening of the ECOWAS began when Mauritania gave notice of withdrawal of its membership from the ECOWAS on December 26, 1999.

Mauritania gave ‘the decisions adopted by the organisation (ECOWAS) in its last summit,’ which took place on 15th December 1999 in Lomé, Togo, as one reason for its withdrawal.

One ungiven reason for the withdrawal is the fact that since the time of its independence in 1960, Mauritania was comprised of the dominant ‘White Maurs’ of Arab extraction and Arabic-

Tinubu speaking Muslim black Africans referred to as the ‘Black Maurs.

The problem in this case is that ‘for centuries, black Africans were subjugated and taken as slaves by both White and Black Maurs.’ The ECOWAS openly frowned at this and Mauritania had to take the bad end of the stick as a result.

Besides, Mauritania had difficult ties with France, the former colonial master. In 1999, it was alleged that a Mauritanian officer undergoing training in France was accused by the French of torturing two people in a Mauritanian prison in the early 1990s. This led to the expulsion of the French military advisers in Mauritania and the recalling of the Mauritanian officers under training in France. This situation could not be ignored in understanding Mauritania’s frustration that led to withdrawal from the ECOWAS. Mauritania’s notice of withdrawal eventually expired in December 2000 and Mauritania ceased to be a member.

Interestingly, Mauritania’s withdrawal from the ECOWAS generated much political opposition and contradictions. The opposition parties, particularly Ahmed Ould Daddah, the Secretary General of the Union of Democratic Forces - the New Era, stated that the decision to withdraw from the ECOWAS is ‘a continuation of the series of systematic destruction of Mauritania’s historical and natural relations with its partners in the Arab world, Africa and Europe.’

What is particularly noteworthy is that, in annoyance with

“

There is no disputing the fact that the age-old bonds of fraternity between Niger and Nigeria deserve to be preserved in the best interests of Nigeriens and Nigerians. The preservation of bonds of fraternity is a desideratum. Niger Republic is the only immediate neighbour with which Nigeria does not have any border conflict. Nigeria’s relationships with the immediate neighbours are warmest with Niger Republic. In fact, as early as the 1970s, both countries established the Niger-Nigeria Joint Commission to address issues in national development.

What happens to the gas project that passes through Niger Republic to Morocco and Europe that is currently in the making? With the withdrawal of Burkina, Mali, and Niger, their citizens are no more Community Citizens. Should they begin to apply for visas at the expiration of their notice of withdrawal from the ECOWAS? From ECOWAS of 16 to an ECOWAS of 12, is regional integration advancing or retrogressing? From Niger’s complaints, PBAT is perceived to have Nigeria and the ECOWAS as a stooge. Niger holds PBAT directly responsible for the deterioration of Niger-Nigeria relations. Consequently, Tinubuplomacy must take more seriously the complaints and embark on special shuttle diplomacy to Burkina Faso, Mali, Mauritania, and Niger for unconditional reconciliation. Nigeria cannot afford the luxury of building and destroying the ECOWAS at the same time

the ECOWAS, Mauritania preferred to join the Arab Maghreb Union (AMU) of four members: Morocco, Algeria, Libya, and Tunisia. The AMU is a politico-economic union set up to foster economic and political unity among Arab countries that are geo-politically located in the North African region. The AMU could not work well primarily because of the misunderstanding between Morocco and Algeria on who has sovereignty over the former Spanish Sahara. The problem has become too critical to the extent that no high-level meetings of the AMU has taken place since 3 July 2008.

Thus what Mauritania expected to gain from theAMU became more of a dream. Mauritania eventually has to do a retour en arrière by seeking cooperation partnership agreements with the ECOWAS with the objective of fostering economic development and security in the West African region. In fact, the language of diplomacy changed for the better. The then President of the ECOWAS Commission, Marcel Alain de Souza, and the Mauritanian Minister of Commerce, Naha Mint Mouknass, could happily recall ‘the strong ties which had existed for centuries, characterised by brotherhood, friendship and good neighbourliness.’ Both parties wanted free flow of goods and people, jointly fight terrorism, and have a single tariff policy applicable to all goods moving across the region.

Additionally, and more interestingly, inAugust 2017, Mauritania came back to sign a new associate membership agreement with the ECOWAS. Were the reasons given initially for withdrawal good enough? Were they really in the national interest of Mauritania? Shouldn’t the Mauritanian experience and the new membership withdrawals be a good and special opportunity for Tinubuplomacy to reunite all the sixteen original members of the ECOWAS? This is one good lesson to be drawn from the Mauritanian experience. PBAT and his Foreign Minister should take advantage of the Alliance of the Sahel States.

This is necessary because the making of the ECOWAS was, ab initio, the brainchild of Nigeria. ECOWAS without Nigeria cannot but create a big vacuum. The failure of the ECOWAS is necessarily also the failure of Nigeria in various ramifications.

Nigeria will need to learn from the failure of the Maghrebin Union, by particularly seeking an understanding of what prompted Morocco to seek membership of the ECOWAS when it geopolitically belongs to the North African region? By virtue of the 1975 Lagos Treaty, membership of the ECOWAS is restricted to sovereign States in West Africa. Morocco does not fall under West Africa, even by the classification of Article 1(d) of the 1991 Abuja Treaty Establishing the African Community.

When Morocco applied to join the ECOWAS in February 2017, the application enjoyed much of Francophone members’ support. However, for various other considerations, the application has to be thrown into desuetude. The issue of Morocco’s membership of the AMU, the likelihood of the use of Morocco as a possible transit route for industrial goods from Europe to the ECOWAS possibly free of tariffs, likely rivalry between Morocco and Nigeria in the West African region, review of the ECOWAS new treaty to be able to accommodate Morocco, Morocco’s policy on the Spanish Sahara, opening of ECOWAS borders to imported goods to Africa through Morocco, etc., cannot but all serve as obstacles to the consideration of the application. The application has to be suspended for four years. Now that it is already over four years since the suspension of the application, Morocco is reportedly renewing the efforts at joining the ECOWAS. There are yet to be confirmed reports of Morocco joining the Alliance of the Sahel States. The likelihood of the application sailing through is still remote in both cases because the considerations that informed the initial suspension by the ECOWAS are still there. Besides, Morocco cannot be considered to fall under the Sahel region. In fact, if it is recalled that the European Union’s Economic PartnershipAgreements (EPA) done with the ECOWAS countries could not enter into force because of Nigeria, the targeted market, which has refused to ratify the agreement. It was partly for this reason that Morocco is being encouraged to join the ECOWAS so that products emanating from Europe can go freely to Nigeria through other Member States.

FranceandMoroccoasChallenges France and Morocco are critical challenges to Tinubuplomacy. France is the fifth immediate neighbour of Nigeria by territorial contiguity and geo-political propinquity. France, as argued by Professor Rafiu Ayo Akindele and Professor Bola A. Akinterinwa, is a contiguous neighbour of Nigeria by virtue of France’s special and privileged relations with the Francophone neighbours of Nigeria. France is actively culturo-politically present in Nigeria’s immediate neighbourhood. France’s foreign policy attitude towards Nigeria is basically to prevent Nigeria from being able to undermine French interests particularly in the neigbouring countries of Nigeria.

In the same vein, Nigeria is also vehemently opposed to the use of her immediate neighbours against Nigeria’s foreign policy interests in Africa as a whole. Africa was, and still is, the centrepiece of Nigeria’s foreign policy. France wants to remain or operate as a great power in Africa and this cannot but conflict with Nigeria as defender of African and Black interests in international relations. This is the first source of the French Read full article online - www.thisdaylive.com

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FEBRUARY 4, 2024 • T H I S DAY, T H E S U N DAY N E W S PA P E R

B AC K PAG E C O N T I N UAT I O N THE POLITICISATION OF POLITICS I would repeat what I said when PDP and APC were having a go at each other under Jonathan: it does not matter who is behind or beside Boko Haram — all Nigerians desire is for their lives and property to be protected by the government. That was what Jonathan owed all Nigerians. The rest is detail. I repeated the same argument under Buhari: it does not matter whether it is Fulani or Kanuri herdsmen — Nigerians are being kidnapped and killed by criminals all over the country and all they desire is security. The rest is detail. Now that we are back to our favourite ritual of propounding conspiracy theories, my message to Tinubu is the same: secure Nigeria. The rest is detail.

We have a big problem in Nigeria: politics always takes precedence over everything. A sense of responsibility to peace and progress is often an afterthought. We are immersed in polarising politics 24/7. At what stage do we focus on the purpose of politics which, as ironic as it may sound, is for the greater good of the society? At what time do we put partisan interests aside and see ourselves first as Nigerians who have a duty to make our country better, no matter who we voted or didn’t vote for? We are already fiercely preparing for the

2027 presidential election, less than a year into a new administration. We play partisan and divisive politics every day of our lives. That is who we are.

To be sure, playing politics is the food of democratic contests. I cannot argue against that. The intrigues and high-wire games could be exciting. There is nothing wrong with that. As I said, politics is not a bad thing, for as long as you are trying to win, keep or jostle for power. My worry is what we play politics with or over. It is okay, in my view, to play politics with the economic policy of the current administration. You can pillory the fiscal and monetary policies. You can ridicule the industrial, trade and agricultural policies. You can tear the policies on education and infrastructure apart. They will even become sweeter when you claim to have better policies if you are in power.

We saw the APC do a lot of that to the PDP and Jonathan ahead of the 2015 elections. It was N300/£ and N216/$. The APC made plenty political capital out of the falling exchange rates then and asked Nigerians to vote out Jonathan. There was a popular Muhammadu Buhari/Yemi Osinbajo advertising board with the message: “Is N216 to $1 Okay?” Today, the rates are N1600/£ and

N1400/$ and PDP supporters and sympathisers have every right to play politics with it. There was this Buhari/Osinbajo poster beside a petrol station where the price displayed was N87/litre. Today, it is over N600/litre. Why should anyone begrudge opposition supporters who make fun of the APC? It is return match.

Since the APC came to power in 2015, we have seen a dramatic fall in the economy. Prices of goods and services have hit the sky. The APC government spent eight years blaming the economic downturn on “16 years of misrule by the PDP”. Many PDP supporters asked the APC to shut up and do the job since they promised Nigerians that they had the solution to the economic challenges. With the APC unable to solve the problem till today, the PDP and other opposition supporters are accusing the APC government of bringing misery on Nigerians. I do not see anything wrong with this kind of politics. It is a competition of words that is worth watching.

That is very good for politics.

However, I cannot withstand the politicisation of insecurity. I think certain things should be off limits.

Nobody should go around saying “northerners” want to destabilise Tinubu because he didn’t

give them their “born-to-rule” appointments.

We’ve gone this conspiracy route before and it only further hurt our nationhood. Politicians should also avoid the route of saying “I can secure Nigeria better” just because they want to win elections. The APC said more than this in 2015 but nine years later we are still fighting terrorism, insurgency, banditry and kidnapping.

Talk is cheap. Our sincere concern should be about finding a lasting solution rather than engaging in grandstanding for political gain.

It is the duty of Tinubu, as president and commander-in-chief of the armed forces, to secure every nook and cranny of the country. We cannot begin to argue over that. As the chief security officer of the federation, he must find a solution. But, in the name of God, we should not go into another era of conspiracy theories because we want to play politics. Nigerians — northerners, southerners, Muslims, Christians, traditionalists, non-religious, men, women, children, APC members, non-APC members — are at the mercy of these criminals.

Let us play politics with the relocation of CBN, the economy, and such like. But let us not return to the unhelpful politicisation of insecurity. Anathema.

And Four Other Things…

MURDERING MONARCHS Two monarchs returning from a meeting in Irele-Ekiti were gunned down on Monday. Oba David Ogunsakin, the Elesun of Esun-Ekiti, and Oba Olatunde Olusola, the Onimojo of Omojola-Ekiti, were brutally murdered. This was the first time monarchs would be killed in this manner. School children were also kidnapped in Emure-Ekiti. This also looks like a first of its kind in Ekiti state. In nearby Ekiti local government in Kwara state, Oba Peter Aremu, Onikoro of Koro-Ekiti, was also killed in cold blood. I am no security expert but these killings do not look random. Suspects have been arrested, thankfully, but police must dig deeper to establish the real motives of these attackers. Abominable.

FIRST AID FBN Holdings Ltd, the parent company of First Bank of Nigeria, on Wednesday appointed Mr Femi Otedola, the billionaire businessman and investor, as the new chairman of its board of directors. Otedola became the bank’s biggest shareholder two years ago when he increased his stake to 7.57 percent, but a lot has happened in the boardroom that has not painted the bank in good light. With the squabbles, everything started going dingdong. First Bank, as Nigeria’s oldest bank and one of the biggest financial institutions in Africa, should put its house in order if it wants to remain competitive in these times. I hope Otedola’s tenure will finally bring the needed healing and direction. Focus.

GO, EAGLES, GO The Super Eagles beat Angola 1-0 on Friday to qualify for the semi-finals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. Angola does not give me good memories — I always remember the death of Sam Okwaraji in a 1990 World Cup qualifier against them in Lagos. I also remember Angola knocking us out of the 2006 World Cup. I had a sense of satisfaction that we beat them to make it to the last four — our first since 2019.

I must confess that these Super Eagles are nowhere near the most exciting teams we have had, but I am impressed with their discipline and work rate. As things stand, I would take any form of win. I wish the team all the best — meaning they should bring the trophy home.

Goaaaaaal!

NO COMMENT In the last few weeks, Governors Abba Yusuf of Kano, Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau, Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi and Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers all thanked President Tinubu for the supreme court verdicts that affirmed their elections. Yusuf and Mutfwang, in particular, thanked Tinubu “for not interfering in the judgments”. Since when did the apex court start taking instructions from the president before deciding how cases would go? Or was it tongue in cheek? Ironically, Tinubu did not say anything to dispel the notion. The implication, at least from an ordinary reading of it, is that he admitted interfering in supreme court proceedings but was only kind not to do so in these cases. Wonderful.

immediately halt changing the foreign exchange rate for duties from N951/$ to N1,356/$. The upward adjustment by NCS will definitely impact costs of imported goods including food items, as importers will duly pass the high cost to consumers in higher prices. I know that we have put NCS in the perverse position of seeing itself as a revenue-generating agency at the expense of its trade-facilitation and border protection mandates. Beyond the usual bragging rights, the agency takes 7% of whatever it ‘generates’ and thus has the incentive to charge higher and keep more with absolutely no consideration for the bigger implication.

A legitimate concern can be raised around the danger of different exchange rates. But this is not the rate at which dollar is given to some privileged people which leads to arbitrage opportunities. It is largely a revenue trade-off for a larger and more strategic cause. If the price of petrol can be paused at N650/litre even with dollar officially exchanging at above N1,400, the forex rate for duties can be frozen too, even if for a short period.

Two, the government needs to remove or reduce tariffs on key food items like rice, wheat and sugar for a limited period of time, say three to six months.

These are strategically and symbolically important food items. Rice is one of the most widely eaten and aspirational grains in the country, wheat is the main ingredient for bread (a pre-cooked, ready-to-eat, and very versatile food item) and sugar is used in the production of a vast range of food items.

Currently, our tariffs on wheat, sugar and rice are 85%, 75% and 70% respectively. These high tariffs, clearly intended to increase local self-sufficiency, put the consumers at the receiving end, especially at a time like this.

Reducing or removing tariffs will surely reduce government’s revenue and will diminish the profitability of local producers of the items. But government can absorb the revenue shortfall, given that it is also earning more revenue from savings from petrol subsidy removal and from Naira’s depreciation, extra revenue whose immediate benefit to the citizens is difficult to ascertain. We also need to balance producers’ welfare with consumers’ welfare. Protecting only local farmers and a few manufacturers at the expense of the rest of the population doesn’t make practical and strategic sense. Besides, everyone is a consumer, as even farmers cannot grow everything they need. Local manufacturers will also be hurt when, due to high prices, disposable incomes plummet and companies that use their products fold up because of plunge in demand. Continuous spike in food prices is an ill-wind that, ultimately, blows no one any good.

We are not in a completely uncharted territory here. In response to the global food crisis of 2008, late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua took some drastic and immediate measures. These included the regular release of grains from the strategic grain reserve, importation of 500, 000 metric tons of rice (worth N80 billion at the time) sold at subsidised prices, and the removal of all duties and charges on imported rice, including custom duty, 7% surcharge, VAT and ETLS levy. The removal of tariff on rice was from 7th May to 31st October 2008. In a paper titled “The Political Economy of Food Price Policy in Nigeria,” Aderibigbe Olomola, a professor of agricultural economics, stated that the prices of rice plunged by 45% on account of suspension of levies and duties on rice imports.

Nigeria may not have the money to import rice to be sold at subsidised prices now, and maybe that is not even a wise use of scarce public resources. But government can sacrifice or take less tariffs on rice, wheat and sugar for a brief period and strategically engage the farmers and few local companies (just three companies in the case of sugar) whose protection and guaranteed profitability will be impacted for a brief period. National interest offers a compelling justification.

This is President Tinubu’s chance to quickly take an action that will improve the welfare of most Nigerians and avert a larger crisis brewing beneath the surface. The ball is fully in his court.

URGENT NEED TO HALT SOARING FOOD PRICES N75,000, an increase of 24% and 21% respectively.

Remember that these increases occurred within one month.

As said earlier, the presidential emergency on food security is yet to translate to lower or stable food prices. The situation is worse today than when the emergency was declared. There is an urgent need for a review of the measures introduced and the effectiveness of their implementation. A good starting point is to understand the remote and immediate causes of constantly rising food prices in the country and to deploy not just medium-term to long-term measures to address them but also provide some drastic and immediate reliefs.

The immediate causes of high food prices are the two signature reforms of the Tinubu administration: petrol subsidy removal and forex rates unification.

Even when increase in petrol prices has been paused for some time now, both reforms have led to increase in transportation costs. Diesel is used for inter-state movement of goods and for powering the generators of small and large companies processing food items.

Diesel is deregulated and its price is not paused, even though VAT on it was removed. Also, we import a significant amount of finished and intermediate food items. For example, most of the inputs used for making a common food item like bread are either imported or made from imported items: flour, sugar, yeast, and butter. A dollar exchanging officially at above N1400 (compared to N463 on 13th June 2023) will definitely impact the prices of these items and the final table price of a loaf of bread.

Beyond the immediate, Nigeria has also had to deal with external and internal challenges that negatively impact the prices of food. These include the supply chain disruption from COVID19, the global spike in inflation, the effect of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and lately increase in shipping costs due to the activities of the Houthi rebels around the Red Sea. It is interesting to note though the external drivers of the pressure of food prices are cooling off. The Food Price Index of the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) shows that food prices fell back to the 2021 levels in 2023. In January 2024, the FFPI was 118 points whereas it was 160 points in March 2022 after Russia invaded Ukraine.

(Nigeria obviously didn’t get the memo or operates by other dynamics).

Internal drivers of food inflation include low agricultural productivity per hectare, food production tracking below population growth, transportation, storage and processing constraints, the impact of climate shocks, burst in money supply, and the crippling effects of the insecurity that has kept farmers out of the farms in most of the north central, northwest

Tinubu and north east zones, zones that are considered the food baskets of the country.

To address rising food prices, we need to remove the constraints within our control. We need to improve the productivity of our farmers through access to better and more affordable inputs and expanded access to extension support and finance. We need to bring more land under cultivation, upgrade our farming practices and improve irrigation-fed farming so that our farmers can farm all-year. We need to invest on all points of the agriculture value chain and improve logistics around storage and transportation to reduce the premium between the farm-gates and the markets, especially in urban areas. We need to stabilise our exchange rate. And definitely, we need to improve security all over the country, most especially in our rural and farming communities.

However, most of these things will take time. Even if we increase and subsidise seedlings, fertilizers and other inputs to farmers, it will take at least three months to grow basic grains like maize (which might end up being exported to the Sahel on account of insecurity there and lower value of our currency).

In the intervening period, food prices will keep soaring and most Nigerians will keep hurting. We have to do something quick to avert the probability of destabilising food riots. We need to remember that the human capacity to tolerate pain is not perfectly inelastic.

I have two proposals. One, the government should ask the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) to

THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER )(%58$5< , 2024

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ENGAGEMENTS

with ChidiAmuta e-mail:chidi.amuta@gmail.com

Vladimir Trump Resurgent

T

he United States presidential election in November is looking more like a referendum. Though intended as a democratic ritual, it could end up as a choice between democracy and authoritarianism.

That at least is what the rhetoric andtrackrecordofthetwomostlikely contenders now suggests.With his resounding victory in both the Iowa and New Hampshire caucus primaries, Mr. Donald Trump is galloping towards clinching the Republican nomination. Both Wall Street and Main Street America have in recent times been gripped by the trepidation that a return to the Trump nightmare is well within the realm of possibility come November.

Ontheotherhand,anunchallengedMr.JoeBiden is the undisputed choice of the Democrats. It is not just a disparity in partisan alignments that is tilting the election towards a referendum. It is the untidymannersandtrackrecordofMr.Trumpthat is upsetting democracy’s apple cart in the place where it matters most. In the process, democracy in America seems to be on trial with the menacing silhouetteofahomegrownautocratinthemorror.

Mr. Biden has consistently presented as the candidate out to defend and protect classical American democracy. Somehow, the aggressive comeback campaign of Donald Trump has projected democracy and its very survival as the central issue of this campaign season.

Ordinarily, Biden and Trump should have been dueling over abortion, the crisis at the border, unemployment figures, the wars in Ukraine and Gaza and the like. Biden should have been busy defending his policies and programmes in the last three years. But the re-emergence of a bullish Donald Trump has more or less made Mr. Biden the candidate of Democracy and no more.

Inthelastcampaignseason,TrumpgaveMr.Biden Covid-19 as a campaign gift and invariably lost the election to mostly on that account. Against a rampaging bull of a belligerent and autocratic Trump, Biden has no choice than to dig into the trenches as the mortal defender of democracy and the liberal heritage.

As things look now, Biden wants to protect and preserve American democracy as we have come to know it. The rule of law, respect for individual rights, diversity driven by the understanding of America as a nation of immigrants, belief in the sanctity of the ballot as the determinant of who rules America, the requirement for decency as the unwritten code of conduct of those who must rule the free world and, above all, the projection of American democracy as a beacon to the rest of the democratic world. Implicit in the ritual of America’s democratic election every four years is the understanding that each election renews hopeindemocracyandstrengthensdemocracyas a universal aspiration that holds out a promise for the free world. Somehow, Joe Biden has come to be the personification of these values and aspirations as well as an inspiration to all those who hold America tacitly responsible for the survival of global democracy and the enlargement of the coast of freedom all over the world.

Mr.Biden’sstrengthsasasymbolofdemocracy are ironically embedded in his perceived weaknesses as a person. He is not a demagogue. He is not necessarily a charismatic orator nor an electrifying presence. But he is a reassuring grandpa figure, the adult in the room as he was indeed in the Obama White House. His calming composureandattentiontodetailsiscompounded by his long familiarity and multiple roles in the historyofAmericandemocracyandthehighpoints of America’s exploits on behalf of democracy around the world. If indeed America needed am embodiment of information and experience on thechallengesandtriumphsofdemocracyaround theworld,Mr.JoeBidenprovidesareadyhistorical centerpiece.

However, many fear that Mr. Biden has not been sufficiently reassuring as a defender of democracy in terms of his performance on the job.The essence of democracy is ultimately in the ability of an elected sovereign to deliver on the expectations of a specific electorate. Mr. Biden is sometimes accused of the weakness that Mr. Trump frequently accuses him of.This can only be inthesensethathisconfrontationofautocratshas not been quite surefooted. He has largely ignored the baby tyrant in North Korea, been less than bullish in his psychological duels with Mr. Putin and has not quite campaigned openly against Mr. Trump’s anti democratic trail in America itself. He

Trump has allowed Mr. Trump to monopolize the use of fear rhetoric frighten ordinary Americans. In addition, a good deal of the economic recovery under Mr. Biden in the last three years has been rather tepid and reversible.

Onthecontrary,Mr.DonaldTrumphasbecome etched in the imagination of Americans and the democratic world as something of an enfant terrible of deviant democracy. Mr.Trump’s initial emergence was greeted with some excitement as a refreshing departure. A Manhattan business man was heading forWashington to infuse the can do ethos of American capitalism into the boring rigidity of Washington’s politics of same old correctness. At that point,Trump was an embodiment of the American dream and dictum of “In Gold We Trust” was emerging as president.The assumption was that the pursuit ofhappinessthroughhardworkandthebuilding of wealth would lead to the spread of prosperity for all hard working Americans through the exampleofadifferenttypeofPresident.Afterall, Trump was reputed to have built his humongous wealth and prosperity through hard work and entrepreneurial bravado. No one knew what a Manhattan real estate entrepreneur would make of the White House. But the risk fitted into the adventure prone American mass psychology. “Sure, why not?, was the refrain in bars, restaurants and subways.

Mr. Trump looked at Washington and saw mostly a political swamp that needed to be drained. And he assigned himself the task.

Between the White House and the Capitol in Washington, there is a cultural assumption that the politics of American democracy is a cultural ecosystem in and of itself. Washington has its meta language, its traditions, its conventions, codes and manners. Mr.Trump was aware of the outlines of this political ecosystem but said he wasdeterminedtoreplacesameoldWashington with a new spirit. But he had no name for his new system nor had he thought it through in any systematic way. He was later to come face to face with it in a historic collision that left a political and physical carnage. By the end of his turbulent and chaotic first term, America was a junk yard of its former self and no where near the threshold of a new republic.

Hisfirstcatastrophictenureendedupenthroning anAmericanversionofilliberaldemocracy.To alargeextent,hecametoembodytheantithesis and corollary of classical American democracy.

Mr. DonaldTrump was stubbornly recalcitrant, unrepentantly rebellious and unrelentingly

bullish in his affront of the best traditions of democracy. He constantly sought to bulldoze his views through Congress, adopted abuse and insultashisstandardpoliticallanguage.Heposited thedemagogueandthugasthearchetypalleader, a model from the authoritarian play book.

In his choice of leadership models around the world, Mr. Trump consistently showed a clear preference and open admiration for the worst autocrats and dictators. His chosen models have been Adolf Hitler, Vladimir Putin of Russia, Xi Jiping of China, Kim Jung Un of North Korea, Viktor Orban of Hungary and Tayeb Erdogan of Turkey. Against these authoritarian models, he has excoriated the past leaders of his own country like Barrack Obama, George Bush Jr. and the Clintons. He cherished and admired the traditions and habits of dictators including reckless abuses of human rights. He openly admired elaborate parades and open displays of military power like those in Moscow’s Red Square and imperial France.

Most leaders who crave a second shot at power usually show signs of some repentance or maturation in their intervening period outside power. Not for Donald Trump. It would instead seem that the last three years have only served to reveal, through the American judicial system, the real tragic essence of the identity of Donald J.Trump. He has faced investigations for storing classified official documents in the bathrooms of his Florida Maralago mansion. He has faced countless judicial indictments over his role in the January 6th mob invasion of the Capitol. He has been indicted for lying abut the net worth of is businesses. He has been variously indicted for business campaign funds in payments for the services of porn artists and for defaming and harassingnumerouswomen.Hisserialindictments forelectoraloffencesinanumberofstatesareon record just as some states supreme courts have ruled him out of the ballot in their states. The vast majority of lawyers who staked their reputation and professional careers to defend or associate withTrump have ended up in jail themselves. Only Trump, courtesy of the elastic immunity of his office as a former President is still walking free but vastly injured and deformed. Yet, America’s rule of law provisions and strict judicial codes have not yet established anything that could possibly stop Donald Trump from standing in the November elections as the candidate of the Republic party. The man remains fit to run for as long as he is not yet in prison uniform.

Yetthereisanundeniablelevelofpopulismthat

has trailed Donald Trump ever since his chaotic first tenure ended. For a president who was impeached twice by the House of Representatives andonlysavedbytheRepublicanSenatemajority, his political base remains strong. It is a base of the vast majority who probably never went to college, work long days in factories, live mostly in rural America and are predominantly white, cocooned in the illusion that America was once the exclusive homeland of white middle America.

They dream of a land with little immigrants, that abhors persons of color and those who do not look like them. But that is an illusion, a myth spurned by Trump and his mobs of rough thugs and supremacist bands.

In pursuit of his bigoted image of America, he has set up and inspired any number of white supremacistmilitiasandstreetterrorgangs.Hehas promotedanynumberoftoxicconspiracytheories and pioneered countless divisive loyalties. The Proud Boys, QAnon, Make America Great Again (MAGA)Brigadeetc.Inresponse,othergroupslike African Americans and Hispanics have set up self defense outfits and groups (Black Lives Matter etc), creating a very divided nation out of what used to be a multicultural and integrated nation of diversity. Even in his Republican party, Trump hassplinteredthe GOP,alienatedthemainstream Republic party elite and driven them to fringes of silence. The mainstream of the party is now occupied by Donald Trump and his attack dogs and racist thugs.

Trump’s belief in electoral democracy begins andendswithelectionsiftheyendupre-anointing him as ‘winner’. For him, ‘winning’ in a democracy is triumphing over opponents and vanquishing political “enemies”. This is why he stopped at no excessinmeddlingwiththepresidentialelections of November 2020. He endorsed all manner of conspiracies, election meddling antics, and open attempts at rigging which led to the fiasco of an attempted ‘coup’ of the Capitol invasion and storming of January 6th 2021.

What is remarkable about Donald Trump’s career to date and which has converted the next election into a virtual referendum is that he has hardly changed in his rhetoric, beliefs, defining warfare concept of power and overall style. He has remained insolent, abusive, uncouth and thuggish as ever. More dangerously, Trump has remained unrepentant in his divisive views of the American nation. He wants to shut the borders, preside over the largest immigrant repatriation and deportation in American history. He has branded immigrants from Africa, Latin America and nearly everywhere else as toxic presences who are ‘poisoning the blood’ of his phantom pure idyllic America.The implicit racism, bigotry and decadent nationalism are right in your face.

The implications of a relapse into Trumpism in the United States for the rest of the world are too stark and frightening to contemplate.Trump will throw Ukraine under the bus and celebrate the triumph of Putin’s “Mother” Russia even if only to annul the emergence of Zelensky as a global super star and hero. The Palestinians had better forget their lifelong dream of an independent homeland. He will return to North Korea with a more elaborate utopian computer animation of what the Hermit kingdom will look like in return for dining with America. The hope of African countries (“S…hole countries”) for greater economic leverage in a new world of free enterprise and democracy would end up in the thrash can. An endless trade war with China will rage and bring world trade to a standstill.

Europe will pretty much be on its own on world affairs, deprived of America’s historic trans Atlantic solidarity and support with which Europe stopped Nazism, Fascism and communism on their tracks for the decades after World War II. NATO would be deprived of American money if only to strengthen Putin as a counterweight to European strength and expansion.

China, Russia and their allies in the emergent axis of evil are waiting with optimism for the return of Vladimir Trump to the White House.

That would give authoritarianism a major leverage in the coming world contest between liberal democracy and authoritarianism.

Butthestatisticalrealitybothgloballyandinthe UnitedStatesishugelyinfavourofthetriumphof democracyandfreedom.Theinevitabledefeatof TrumpinAmerica’sNovemberelectionswillherald a setback for the advance of authoritarianism as a counter force to the global wave of democracy.

THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER FEBRUARY 4, 2024

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SUNDAYSPORTS

Edited by: Duro Ikhazuagbe email:Duro.Ikhazuagbe@thisdaylive.com

AFCON 2023...AFCON 2023...AFCON 2023...AFCON 2023...

South Africa’s Bafana Bafana celebrating defeating Cape Verde 2-1 in penalty shootouts to reach AFCON 2023 semi final last night

South Africa Beat Cape Verde to Set up S’final Clash with Nigeria Host Côte d’Ivoire grab last minute winner to reach Semis Duro Ikhazuagbe

Ronwen Williams was the hero of the night as he stopped four of Cape Verde’s afana Bafana kicks in the shootouts.

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Earlier, host nation, Côte Super Eagles on Wednesday d’Ivoire, produced another in Bouake.

South Africa’s goalkeeper, amazing Africa Cup of Na-

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Ekong: Super Eagles’‘Fighting Spirit’Will Make Nigeria Champions Fury v Usyk Heavyweight Title Fight Rescheduled for May 18

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Aston Villa Hammer Sheffield 5-0 to Climb Back to Top Four

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and there were fears he could be stripped of that title if Fury was sidelined for several months. %XW LQ D IDVW PRYLQJ KRXUV Saudi Arabian organisers and Team Fury moved quickly to secure a new date for the undisputed bout.

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MISSILE

Lamido to APC “You have to look at the character of the Nigerian people.

To me, all the bad eggs in PDP are out. They have defected to APC, leaving honest individuals like me in PDP” – Former Jigawa State Governor, Sule Lamido, alleging that all the treasury looters in the PDP have defected to APC.

SIMONKOLAWOLE SIMONKOLAWOLELIVE!

simon.kolawole@thisdaylive.com, sms: 0805 500 1961

The Politicisation of Politics

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olitics has probably one million definitions but, for the purpose of this article, I mean the art of winning, keeping or jostling for state power. There is nothing wrong with politics, even though the conduct of many politicians tends to give it a bad name and you always hear a lot of decent people vowing to never dive into the “murky waters of politics”. Politics could be dirty but it does not have to be. Politicisation, on the other hand, is the framing of issues for political gain by those who have won or are jostling to win state power. It is not necessarily a bad thing, but it almost always leads to political polarisation, where commonsense has the tendency to disappear without a trace.

When I say “politicisation of politics”, therefore, it should be understood within the context of the Machiavellian politics “marked by cunning, duplicity, or bad faith” — as the Merriam-Webster dictionary describes it. Machiavellian ethics are built on the maxim that “the end justify the means”. It doesn’t matter what you do to achieve your goal — it is your goal that matters. That is the philosophy of Niccolò Machiavelli, the Italian political philosopher whose classic treatise, The Prince, ranks among the most famous books ever. Machiavelli said his experience and reading of history showed him that “politics has always been played with deception, treachery, and crime”.

From my balcony, I have been observing recent events under President Bola Tinubu and I am asking

Tinubu myself: haven’t I seen this kind of politicisation before? With kidnappers on a renewed rampage, someone whispered to me that “the north” is trying to destabilise Tinubu’s government because some “juicy appointments” have been taken away from them.

Truly? Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, former vice-president and PDP candidate in the 2023 presidential election,

has called on Tinubu to resign if he cannot tackle the insecurity in the land. Really? The relocation of certain offices of the CBN and FAAN from Abuja to Lagos is being described as an attempt to relocate the federal capital. Sure?

In truth, there is nothing new in this sort of politicking. In 1999, when President Olusegun Obasanjo directed that the headquarters of the Nigerian Maritime Authority (NMA, now known as Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA), and the Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA) be relocated to Lagos for administrative convenience, there was a similar outcry that he was trying to relocate the federal capital. Nearly 25 years later, Abuja remains the federal capital. The outcry over relocation is always from one region.

If Abuja is indeed a neutral territory — as it was intended to be when the capital was moved from Lagos — why are the northern senators the most concerned?

Claiming that a part of the country is “fighting back” for losing power is not new either. In the early years of Obasanjo’s first term as president, there were ethnic and religious killings in several parts of the country, most notably Kaduna, Plateau and Kano. We were told then that fifth columnists were at work to end the “nascent” democracy because they were not comfortable that a southerner was in power and “restructuring” Nigeria. They wanted the military back, we were told. Almost 25 years later, ethnic and religious killings have not stopped, no matter who has been in power — Muslim or

Christian, northerner or southerner — and, well, the conspiracy theories have not stopped either.

Nigerian politics has been predominantly Machiavellian since the return to democracy in 1999, but the endless politicisation of our politics appeared to have fully taken off in 2009 when President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua fell terminally ill and it became glaring that power would return to southern Nigeria in less than four years of moving to the north. There were calls on his deputy, Dr Goodluck Jonathan, to respect the power rotation arrangement in the PDP by not running in 2011. He did run and did win — with the backing of major northern power brokers — but that did not stop accusing fingers being pointed at “the north” when Boko Haram terrorism and insurgency exploded later.

Recently, when Atiku asked Tinubu to resign over the renewed insecurity in the country, it brought back memories of what the APC said to President Goodluck Jonathan ahead of the 2015 general election. At the time, Book Haram was at the height of its power.

Alhaji Lai Mohammed, then APC’s spokesperson, asked Jonathan to resign. We are in 2024 and the APC is getting a dose of its own medicine. We spent valuable time then debating who was behind Boko Haram. We spent valuable time under President Muhammadu Buhari debating who was behind “Fulanisation”. We are spending valuable time again debating who is behind kidnappings under Tinubu. It is our political culture.

Continued on page 61

WAZIRIADIO POSTSCRIPT

Urgent Need to Halt Soaring Food Prices

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rices of food items have been on a continuous rise in Nigeria in the past few years. But the spikes of the last few months are quite significant. Soaring food prices now deserve to be treated as a major crisis.

In a country where 26.5 million people are officially classified as food insecure, where citizens spend 59% of their incomes on food and where 104 million people are classified as income poor, nothing can be more existential and more dangerous than sky-high food prices.

The negative impacts on social stability, economic growth, human development and national security are simply too grave for the government not to swing into crisis mode.

To be fair, President Bola Tinubu, within two months of coming into office, declared a state of emergency on food security. He announced the roll-out a number of initiatives, including supply of fertilisers to farmers and grains to households, increased protection for farmers, identification of 500,000 hectares of land for cultivation, enhanced synergy between the ministries charged with agriculture and water resources, and the elevation of food and water issues as remits of the National Security Council, among others.

But six months later, these presidential declarations

are yet to have the desired effect on food security and food prices. Nigeria’s food security map, as portrayed on the Cadre Harmonise dashboard, is still largely the same, with most parts of the country in the stressed and crisis categories. Prices of food items have continued to hit the roof, partly on account of the knock-on effects of some of the reforms introduced by the administration. Assuming that those emergency measures announced with fanfare back in July 2023 are being faithfully implemented, it is time to take more drastic steps, including implementing short-term boosts to food supply and reduction of tariffs on major food or food-related items.

The interplay of hunger and anger is usually combustible, and it seems, despite the deceptive calm, that we might just be a spark away from a conflagration. Nigerians are hurting and increasingly tetchy. Policy makers should not wait until what is simmering beneath the surface boils over. Concrete and consequential interventions are needed immediately.

There is enough evidence from official data and everyday experience to underscore the crisis of food prices in the country. According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), food inflation was 33.93% in December 2023, compared to 26.98% when the president declared a state of emergency on food security. And there was definitely no let-up in January

2024. Food inflation seems to be no respecter of presidential declarations.

Last week, the NBS released the Cost of Healthy Diet (CoHD) report for December 2023. The basket of food items used for the calculation, according to the NBS, represents “the cheapest possible” and “the least expensive combination of foods that meets the daily requirements for a healthy diet for an adult.” In a way, this cost is the barest minimum, as the NBS adds that “to be able to afford a healthy diet, an individual must have a food budget that is greater than or equal to the Cost of a Healthy Diet.”

In December 2023, the cost of the healthy diet for an adult in Nigeria increased to N786. As expected, there will be zonal differences, with the lowest cost in the Northwest (N663) and the highest in the Southwest (N920). This means to that to eat basic healthy meal daily, an adult in Nigeria needed a food budget higher than or equal to N24,366 for the month of December 2023 while her compatriots in the Northwest and the Southwest would need N20,553 and N28,520 respectively.

This also means that a Nigerian adult on minimum wage without family or dependants on the average would need more than 81% of her income to afford a semblance of a healthy diet while the same individual living in the Northwest and the Southwest would need 69% and 95% of their incomes respectively. It

can be assumed that these individuals would have other bills to pay, especially on accommodation, transportation and energy. If they have families or dependants, then healthy eating or eating at all becomes a challenge. Interestingly, there are graduates with professional qualifications who earn just about or slightly above the minimum wage, especially in the private sector. Government has all the reasons to worry if significant portions of the population are struggling to eat, and definitely has more reasons to worry when those portions concentrated in highly irritable urban centres.

The most staggering dimension of the crisis of food prices is the speed of price shifts. Sometimes, depending on the shock at play, changes occur within months or weeks, faster than the capacity to cope or adjust of a vast number of citizens who are mostly on fixed incomes. The Friday lead story of Daily Trust newspaper put these rapid upward shifts in perspective. According to an infographic on the front page of the newspaper, the price of a 50kg bag of rice jumped from N45,000 to N70, 000 within January 2024 alone. That’s a 56% increase within one month. Daily Trust also reported that a 50kg bag of flour rose to N44,000 from N35,500 and a 50kg bag of sugar moved from N62, 000 to Continued on page 61

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