SATURDAY 26TH MARCH 2022

THISDAY: Wike Can't Be Taken Seriously for Whatever He Says Governor has a tendency to change positions randomly and unpredictably Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt The cross examination of the first defence witness, Jude Igbanoi, in the libel case filed

by Governor Nyesom Wike of

Rivers State against THISDAY Newspapers and three others, continued yesterday at the Rivers State High Court, Port Harcourt, with the claimant’s lead counsel, Emmanuel Ukala (SAN), questioning Igbanoi on the interview Wike granted

Arise News last year.

The governor had filed a N7 billion libel suit claiming that the newspaper’s publication of June 23, 2020, with caption: “With a Friend Like Wike, Obaseki Meets His PDP’s Waterloo; Almost,” was

intended to damage his character.

Yesterday, Ukala said that in the Arise video clips on the Edo election campaign, Wike was very passionate in his speech for the victory of the Peoples Democratic

Party (PDP) and then asked Igbanoi if in the interview, the governor displayed any sign of betrayal in his responses.

The witness said he was not in the position to say so; but that the claimant had shown by his character and

antecedents that he could not be taken seriously for whatever he says “as he has a tendency to change positions randomly and unpredictably.”

Ukala further asked the Continued on page 5

S’Court Upholds De-registration of 22 Parties By INEC... Page 5 Saturday 26 March, 2022 Vol 27. No 9846

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States Fail to Stop $418m Payment to Debt Consultants Alex Enumah in Abuja The 36 states of the federation yesterday failed in their moves

to stop the federal government from deducting their funds in the federation account to pay fees allegedly owed to

consultants that supposedly handled the Paris Club loan payments' refunds to the states.

The suit filed on behalf of the

states by their various AttorneysGeneral was dismissed for lacking in merit.

A source close to the

Chairman of the Nigerian Governors Forum (NGF), Governor Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti State, said he was shocked

by the ruling and had directed their lawyers to swiftly appeal Continued on page 5

After Months of Rancour, APC Convenes to Endorse Abdullahi Adamu as Chairman Few hours to voting, governors still struggling with Unity List for other NWC positions

Our Correspondents After several months of intense fighting, over 5,000 delegates from across Nigeria will today gather at the Eagle Square, Abuja, to endorse former Nasarawa State Governor, Senator Abdullahi Adamu as the National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

The Abdullahi Adamu deal was concluded last Wednesday after President Muhammadu Buhari summoned the 22 governors of the party to a meeting and decreed the adoption of consensus candidates for all the offices of the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party. Thereafter, he nominated Adamu for National Chairman.

As at last night, all the chairmanship aspirants had withdrawn from the race in line with Buhari’s directives.

The Unity List for other NWC positions of the party was not decided during the governors’ meeting with Buhari.

The President told the governors

to meet and agree on this; that refunds of money spent on purchasing forms be made to all the aspirants unable to make the Unity List.

Unfortunately, as at last night, just a few hours before voting began, the governors could still not agree on the Unity List.

So, no list had been sent out.

One of the positions still in dispute is that of the party’s National Secretary. Some governors want Iyiola Omisore, former deputy governor of Osun State, while some others want Ifeoluwa Oyedele, a 2020 governorship aspirant of the party in Ondo State.

The choice of Waziri Bulama (Borno State) as National Organsing Secretary by the governors is also in dispute.

Some top party members, including Governor Babagana Zulum prefer Senator Abu Kyari for the job.

Those looking good to make the Unity List are Ken Nnamani (Enugu State) as Deputy National Chairman, South and Continued on page 5

THE ROAD AHEAD… L-R: Governor Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti; the Minister of Finance, Zainab Ahmed and the Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola, during the All Progressives Congress’ Pre-Convention Conference, “Consolidating Democratic Change: Scorecard, Impact and the Road Ahead,” at the Shehu Musa Yar'Adua Centre, Abuja…yesterday

Buhari in Lagos Tuesday for Tinubu’s Birthday Colloquium… Page 10

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S’Court Upholds De-registration of 22 Parties By INEC Alex Enumah in Abuja The Supreme Court yesterday upheld the de-registration of 22 political parties by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The parties were among the 74 scrapped in 2020 by INEC following their dismal performances in previous elections.

In declaring INEC right for deregistering the political parties, the apex court, in a judgment, set aside the earlier judgment of the Abuja

Division of the Court of Appeal, which nullified the parties' de-registration.

INEC had approached the Supreme Court to set aside the judgment of the appellate court which held that it did not accord fair hearing to the respondents before deregistering them.

Delivering judgment in the appeal, the apex court held that the lower court on its own (suo motu) raised the issue of lack of fair hearing in favour of the 22 deregistered parties and arrived at a conclusion without hearing from other parties in the matter.

Justice Ejembi Eko, who delivered the lead judgment said, "This appeal by INEC is meritorious and is hereby allowed. The decision of the court below is set aside."

Eko explained that the Court of Appeal took the issue of fair hearing out of the contemplations of the notice of appeal filed by the political parties but refused to do the needful in order to be fair to others in the matter.

Specifically, the Supreme Court said that the Court of Appeal erred in law by raising

the issue of fair hearing in favour of the political parties suo motu and declined to give opportunity to other respondents to address it on the matter in order to arrive at a just conclusion.

He added that the appellate court by going ahead to deliver judgment in the matter ran foul of the pillar of the same fair hearing and as such, its findings and conclusion cannot stand.

"It is not the basic functions of any court to raise a fundamental issue suo motu and come to the conclusion without being

addressed by parties in the matter. Such action runs foul of the pillar of the fair hearing itself," Justice Eko held.

INEC had on February 6, 2020 de-registered 74 political parties for failing to win any political office in the last general election.

The Advanced Congress of Democrats (ACD) and 21 other parties sued at the Federal High Court in Abuja to challenge their deregistration by INEC. In a judgment on June 11, 2020, the Federal High Court dismissed the suit on the grounds that INEC was

empowered to de-register parties that failed to win elections.

The court held that Section 225(a), (b) and (c) of the Constitution could be construed disjointedly to imply that INEC possesses the power to deregister parties.

On appeal to the Court of Appeal, Abuja, the appellate court, in its judgment in August 2020 said although INEC could de-register parties, it was wrong to have deregistered ACD and 21 other parties while their case was pending in court.

AFTER MONTHS OF RANCOUR, APC CONVENES TO ENDORSE ABDULLAHI ADAMU AS CHAIRMAN Adamu Farouk (Jigawa State)) as Deputy National Chairman, North.

However, if the governors are able to resolve the Unity List and send it out this morning as indicated by another source, it means the election today would be a mere academic exercise.

It would also mean that any aspirant still bent on contesting is free to do so, but once outside the Unity List, it is surely going to be a losing game, as the governors control the delegates who will vote at the convention.

Governor of Nasarawa State Abdullahi Sule, who is Chairman Media and Publicity sub-committee for the National Convention, refused to comment on the delay in the release of the Unity List at a press briefing yesterday, but simply said the list would still be released and would be used today.

On the issue of political appointees voting at today’s convention, Governor Sule said: “Our delegates' list is actually statutory. So, if you have a former president as a political appointee, if you have a former Senator as a political appointee, these are already

automatic delegates, you know.

So, let us not confuse the two because being an appointee does not necessarily take you out of being a delegate, because our delegates are classified clearly.

"So, most of the lists that we submitted, if you are talking of the ones who have submitted now, we don't have commissioners, we don't have advisors, we don't have all those unless if somebody particularly was a former this or former that, in that case, you know, just being an appointee doesn't completely exclude such a person from being a delegate.”

The President of the Senate, Ahmad Lawan on Thursday

expressed optimism that most of the new NWC members of the APC today will emerge by consensus.

"The next two days are so important to us that we must get everything spot on so that we don't allow anyone to cause any problem. Thank God we are reaching consensus all over the states and zones and by the time we go into the convention ground, I'm sure there will be very few elective offices that will have to be voted for. Most would have been achieved through consensus," Lawan said.

Lawan adds: "We, as a party, feel that this is a moment that

is so critical to the existence of APC in Nigeria. We need to get the convention right. We need to have a very successful, peaceful convention where we elect our leaders that will run the affairs of the party for the next four years. Therefore, every hand must be on deck and what we have done is to come and say our hands are available to be on deck as always.

Programme of Activities Eagle Square, venue of today’s convention, was sparkling yesterday, while virtually all the delegates had arrived.

According to the convention

then kick off.

There will be goodwill messages by Youth Wing, Women Wing, People Living with Disability (PLwD) and Diaspora Wing between 3:40 and 4:50p.m.

Remarks by the Chairman, Progressives Governors’ Forum (PGF) and Representatives of Governors’ from each of the six geo-political zones will take place between 4:50 and 5:20p.m.

Remarks by the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President of the Senate will be between 5:25 and 5:35p.m.

Honourable presiding justice.

"We are not here to prejudge what both parties have said until when the court comes to a conclusion. That is the minimum of respect we need to the court.

"Today, the witness was cross examined again by the counsel to the claimant. There were two videos that couldn't play yesterday but the transcripts are available. So, we have taken a date to bring them forward, play them again so the counsel can continue and conclude the cross-examination.

"We are returning to the court on April 25 and 27 for them to conclude."

In the video clips presented last Thursday by the defense witness, as evidence to the said report, Igbanoi in a heated argument informed the court that Wike’s various public statements open his character and integrity to public scrutiny and fair comments.

He further stressed that Wike’s character since coming into public office had shown him to be such that he would say certain things about someone one day and turn 360 degrees a few months or years later to say the contrary.

In the video clips, Wike was sighted in a campaign speaking about Obaseki as televised on Channels and TVC News.

The court also watched a video clip during an interview with the Governor, televised

by Arise News titled, “The politics and issues in PDP.” A video clip of Wike praising Amaechi over his performance in Rivers State, when he was the Director of Amaechi Campaign Organisation was also played.

However, during cross examination, Ukala told the defendant witness (Igbanoi) that the publication was intended to smear the integrity of the governor.

But in defense, the witness stated that the story was gathered from speeches made by Wike from different occasions of campaign and interviews.

Igbanoi also told the court that the publication had no intention to damage the image of the governor but was only

being professional.

He stressed that the newspaper was only fulfilling its constitutional duty of informing the public and making a fair comment on the situation during the Edo State governorship election in the said publication.

While responding to some of the questions during the cross-examination, he further pointed out to the court that Wike has been a public servant in the past two decades.

That his life, therefore, was an open book that was open to members of the public and therefore the media was free to comment on his utterances and actions, whether positive or perceived negative. He cited examples of his televised statements as the Director General of the Rotimi Amaechi Campaign Organisation where he praised Amaechi to high heavens and turned round a few years after to lampoon, castigate and lambast him at every given occasion.

He also pointed out that Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki, whose campaign organisation he chaired, was now his number one enemy to the dismay of the public.

He stated that Wike has since been apologising to the former Edo State Governor and former APC National Chairman, Adams Oshiomhole openly in the media.

The governor claimed during his appearance in court that the publication portrayed him as a deceitful, untrustworthy person.

Wike also claimed that THISDAY accused him of undemocratically exerting influence on the primaries’ process of PDP in Edo State in aid of his ally, Omoregie Ogbeide-Ihama, who was the beneficiary of the court order restraining Obaseki from participating in the PDP primaries.

Wike had also told the court that the defendants denigrated him before the entire world as a fake democrat, who engages in meddling in the internal affairs of All Progressives Congress, in order to get at his political enemy, the Minister of Transportation, Chibuike Amaechi.

Continued on page 39

THISDAY: WIKE CAN'T BE TAKEN SERIOUSLY FOR WHATEVER HE SAYS witness if the said report in THISDAY insinuated that Wike influenced the case in the Federal High Court on who was to be the flag bearer of the PDP in the 2020 Edo gubernatorial election.

In response, the witness said: “Since it concerns the party, the court, if within his domain, although a federal high court, the governor would not have a passing interest but committed

to the victory of the party.

Since the cases concerned his party, and in the heat of the governorship election campaign, he (Wike) would be expected to have more than a passing interest in the cases.”

Ukala further tendered a letter to the court, where he said the governor had asked THISDAY to retract the said report and publish an apology.

The cross examination of

the defense witness was later adjourned by the presiding Judge, Justice Adolphus Enebeli to April 25 and 27.

Speaking with journalists outside the courtroom, counsel to THISDAY, Tuduru Edeh (SAN), explained: "The matter is continuing, the witness has adopted his position in respect of which he has made several comments or at least sustained his defense; all that is before the

STATES FAIL TO STOP $418M PAYMENT TO DEBT CONSULTANTS the judgement.

Justice Inyang Ekwo of the Federal High Court in Abuja dismissed the suit on the grounds that the plaintiffs lacked the legal powers to institute the suit.

The Attorney General of Abia State and his counterparts from the 35 states had approached the court to stop the federal government from going ahead with the planned deductions of their funds in the federation accounts to pay six consultants that allegedly helped the states recover excess deductions in payment of the Paris Club loans.

President Muhammadu Buhari had approved the deduction of $418 million being judgment debt entered against the 36 states over their failure to pay the consultants.

Amongst the reasons adduced by the AGs was that they never authorised any contract and that the said contracts were suspected as fraud, hence the need for the court to stop the planned deductions.

However, delivering judgment yesterday, Justice Ekwo held that the plaintiffs, who are political appointees of their various state governors, lacked the powers to initiate the suit without the consent of the governors.

He added that since the controversial judgment debt arose from the actions of the governors, who are members of the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF), the AGs as appointees cannot therefore sue to challenge the action of their bosses.

The court also dismissed the suit as an abuse of the court process because, according to the judge, the plaintiffs by the suit are seeking to get the court to review the judgment of $418 million entered against the 36

programme released by the APC, accredited delegates are expected to start arriving at the Eagle Square by 10 am. Members of the National Caretaker and Extra-ordinary Convention Planning Committee (CECPC) will arrive by 1:30p.m.

APC state governors, National Assembly members, ministers and other party leaders are expected by 2:p.m.

The President of the Senate and the Speaker, House of Representatives, will arrive between 2:10p.m and 2:20p.m.

Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo will arrive by 2:45p.m while President Buhari will arrive by 3:15p.m. The convention will

states.

Ekwo ruled: "This court cannot review any judgment of this court or court of coordinate jurisdiction or the Court of Appeal or the Supreme Court.

I therefore dismiss the case for being an abuse of court process."

The judge explained that what the plaintiffs should have done was to have filed a suit to set aside the judgment debt.

On the substantive issue, the court held that the federal government has the powers to deduct from state funds to pay any debt owed by the state.

While stating that the Constitution does not prevent deductions of debt, he said, "the Constitution will not permit arbitrary deductions.”

Having established that the plaintiffs are not proper persons to make the case, Justice Ekwo held that, "Court does not grant reliefs to a non-party or a person that is not proper before the court.

"I do not see any merit in this case, I therefore dismiss it for lacking merit."

Recall that the court had in November last year refused to grant an injunctive order seeking to stop the federal government from deducting $418 million from state governments’ account to pay the judgment debt to contractors of the Paris club refund.

Justice Ekwo rather granted accelerated hearing in the substantive suits filed by the 36 states government challenging the decision.

He had held that he could not proceed to determine the Motion on Notice following objections by some defendants challenging the court’s jurisdiction to entertain the motion.

According to him, since

jurisdiction was a paramount issue in litigation, it was best to resolve it before proceeding further in the matter, adding that it would amount to wasted efforts by a court to proceed on a matter to only find out that it lacked jurisdiction.

“The application for interlocutory injunction is not granted,” the judge held.

He subsequently adjourned till December 21, to hear the preliminary objection raised by the defendants, as well as the main suit.

The governors of the 36 states had rushed to court following President Buhari’s approval of the payment of the controversial $418 million to six creditors as judgment debts in their favour.

The six contractors it claimed were engaged by the 36 states government to help them recover excessive deductions from their accounts in payment of the Paris Club loans.

The beneficiaries include Ned Nwoko, $142,028,941; Ted Iseghoghi Edwards, $159 million; Riok Nigeria Limited, Orji Nwafor Orizu, and Olaitan Bello – $142,028,941.95 and Panic Alert System Limited and George Uboh, $47,831,920.

Based on Buhari’s approval, the Federal Ministry of Finance was also said to have directed the Debt Management Office (DMO) to commence issuance of promissory notes to the creditors.

The governors accused the president of approving the payment without considering their call for a forensic audit of the claims of the creditors.

But the defendants faulted the suit on the grounds that a Federal High Court had earlier issued an order that the federal government should deduct the

money.

They argued that based on the earlier judgment of court, the former Chairman of Nigerian Governors Forum, Abdulazeez Yari issued a promissory note on behalf of the governors to the effect that the $418 million be deducted from their money from the federation account.

The defendants, who were represented by various lawyers, also challenged the jurisdiction of the court in the instant case, adding that since the earlier judgment was delivered by the same court, more than four years ago, the governors did not deem it fit to file appeal against the judgment.

They, therefore, prayed Justice Ekwo not to sit as an Appeal Court in a matter that had earlier been decided by his court.

While the 36 states’ AttorneysGeneral are the plaintiffs in the suit, some of the defendants listed in the suit include the Attorney-General of the Federation, Accountant-General of the Federation and Ministry of Finance.

Others are the Central Bank of Nigeria, Debt Management Office, Federation Account Allocation Committee, Incorporated Trustees of Association of Local Government of Nigeria, among others.

Fireworks on this case are expected at the Appeal Court very soon. The governors believe the judgement is not sound.

The source close to Fayemi remarked: “Most of his (Fayemi’s) colleagues were also shocked by the ruling. You know that they are all in Abuja for the APC convention. They all expressed reservations about the ruling and approved that their lawyers proceed to the appellate court immediately.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ MARCH 26, 2022

NEWS

News Editor Charles Ajunwa 09157401421 (sms only) Email charles.ajunwa@thisdaylive.com

Buhari to EFCC: Avoid Being Used By Political Actors to Settle Personal Scores Deji Elumoye in Abuja

President Muhammadu Buhari has charged the leadership and operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to avoid being used for partisan politics, or get dragged into personal disputes.

Rather, he said they should focus on serving the nation to entrench good governance.

Speaking at the unveiling of the EFCC Standard Operating Procedures, Policies and Manu-

als, at the State House, Abuja, yesterday, the President advised leaders and all operatives of the commission to resist the temptation of being influenced by political actors for personal gains or to score political points.

He said: “I must advise the leadership and operatives of this commission to resist the temptation of being used for partisan politics or be dragged into personal disputes. Your job is to serve the nation in its efforts to entrench good governance.”

The President noted the

excellent performance of the leadership of the EFCC in securing 2,220 convictions and recovering over N152 billion and $385m in the last one year.

He expressed gladness that the war against corruption, which is one of the cardinal objectives of his government, is being strengthened through the institutionalisation of operational procedures particularly as they form the building blocks of transparency and accountability in administration and public expenditure.

President Buhari also com-

mended the EFCC Chairman, Abdulrasheed Bawa, for efforts to further institutionalise the commission by developing 26 Standard Operating Procedures and 25 Policies and Manuals for the Departments, Units and Staff of the Commission, while appreciating the support of the Board, Management and Staff.

According to him: “These outstanding feats achieved are being unveiled today and I would like to use this opportunity to encourage other Ministries, Departments and Agencies of government, especially Law

Enforcement Agencies to also ensure the standardisation of their processes within the extant laws and regulations as provided in our statutes.

“I need not underscore the importance of today’s occasion but let me remind you that the stakes are high but national expectations are higher. Therefore, we must continue to strive and deal decisively with matters in accordance with the rule of law.

“On the part of the government, we shall continue to accord all necessary support to MDAs in order to ensure the sustain-

ability of the initiatives already commenced in actualising our vision of a corrupt free society.

“Let me conclude by saying that the fight against economic and financial crimes in Nigeria is a collective responsibility of all Nigerians if we are to make meaningful progress as a nation.

“I invite you all to fight corruption in all its ramifications and join us to entrench good governance values and integrity within all our systems. As I have often said, “If we do not kill corruption, corruption will kill us as a nation.”

Dele Momodu Faults Advocates of Northern Presidency, Says Southerner Can Win in 2023 Chuks Okocha in Abuja

Ovation Publisher and presidential aspirant of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dele Momodu, has faulted the argument that no Southerner can win the 2023 presidential election.

Momodu, who yesterday paid the N40 million Nomination fee and Expression of Interest forms of the PDP presidential ticket, said that it was a fallacious statement to claim that the Southern aspirants of the party cannot win the next year presidential election.

He also appealed to the PDP to hearken to the cries of Nigerians for a new type of leadership and not a rehash and regurgitation of the same monied class or cabals who have nothing but calamitous corruption, monumental misery and unprecedented disaster to offer the unfortunate citizens.

Momodu said that the world had already left Nigeria way

behind as a result of its addiction to narcoleptic leadership and the inability to exorcise the demons of democracy, saying, “We can rid ourselves of the manacles and shackles of the depressive state and oppressive nature created by much vaunted purported political demigods and warlords.”

Addressing journalists in Abuja yesterday, Momodu said, “Let me quickly respond to the unfortunate suggestion that no Southern candidate can win the presidential election. This is a total fallacy based on absolute distortion of facts of history and Mathematics.

“In 1979, Alhaji Shehu Shagari of NPN polled 5,688,857 votes (42.37%) to defeat Chief Obafemi Awolowo of UPN at 4,916,551 (36.61%), Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe of NPP at 2,822,523 (21.02%) with a grand total of 13,427,93 votes. Thus, had the South stayed united, Shagari would not have been the President,” he said.

Osinbajo in Accra for ECOWAS Extraordinary Summit on Mali Deji Elumoye in Abuja

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo leaves for Accra, Ghana, today to represent Nigeria at an Extraordinary Summit of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government on the political situation in Mali and other parts of the sub-region.

According to a release issued yesterday by the media aide to the Vice President, Laolu Akande, the Vice President will be accompanied by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Zubairu Dada; Special Adviser on Economic Matters to the Vice President, Dr. Adeyemi Dipeolu and other top government officials.

Osinbajo, who departs from Lagos, is expected back in Abuja later on Friday.

While in Accra, the Vice President will join other leaders from West Africa to review progress made by Mali’s military junta on the return of the country to democratic rule.

The summit will receive and

consider an updated report from ECOWAS Mediator in Mali, former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan who visited Bamako between March 18 to 20, 2022, to meet with the head of the junta.

The Heads of State will also review the situations in the Republics of Burkina Faso and Guinea.

Having condemned the military takeover of governments in Mali, Guinea and Burkina Faso, imposing sanctions on the military junta in those countries, ECOWAS leaders at their last meeting in February affirmed that only democratically elected governments would be recognised and supported in West Africa.

Since last year, President Muhammadu Buhari has been delegating Vice President Osinbajo to represent Nigeria at a series of ECOWAS leaders’ summits on the particular issue of undemocratic, military takeover of governments in the region.

STRENGHTENING ANTI-CORRUPTION …

L-R: Chief of Staff Prof Ibrahim Gambari, SGF Mr. Boss Mustapha; President Muhammadu Buhari; President of the Senate, Ahmad Lawan; Chairman, Senate Committee on Anti-Corruption and Financial Crime, Sen Sulaiman Abdul-Kwari; and EFCC Chairman, Abdulrasheed Bawa during the unveiling of Standard Operating Procedures and Policy Document of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) held at the Council Chambers of the State House Abuja…yesterday.

Coastal Road: Lekki Residents Seek Dangote’s Intervention Hammed Shittu in Ilorin

Lekki Estates Residents and Stakeholders Association (LERSA), the umbrella body representing estates and communities from 1004 Estate to Epe in Lagos State, has appealed to businessman, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, for help in providing transportation infrastructure in the area.

The appeal was made in a letter to Dangote, Chairman, Dangote Group of Companies, and signed by Olorogun James Emadoye and Arc. OPA Ladega,

LERSA President and Vice President.

In the letter, dated 20 March, LERSA expressed delight at the economic developments such as Dangote Refinery, Lekki Deep Seaports and Lekki Free Trade Zone, which it said would bring prosperity to the axis through increased job opportunities.

It, however, noted that there is a need for transportation infrastructure to support the huge investments made by Dangote and other investors, as what is currently available

is grossly inadequate.

“We at LERSA, believe that the development of an alternative road and/or alternate mode of transportation such as rail is required to support the massive development and population explosion in the area.

“The construction of the Lekki Coastal Road or the construction of a rail system from Epe to Marina are suggested options for reducing the impending disaster when the refinery commences work.

“We are optimistic that as a

businessman, you will be able to decide on the best (Coastal road or rail) option for your intervention.

“We trust that you will use your connection and influence to work with the government to ensure that this urgently needed infrastructure is put in place,” LERSA stated.

It added that over the last two years, the wave of investments has led to population explosion in the axis, a development that has had a negative impact on the Lekki/Epe Expressway, the only road to the axis.

I Didn’t Oppose Buhari on Consensus, Says Fayemi Victor Ogunje in Ado Ekiti

The Governor of Ekiti State and Chairman, Nigeria’s Governors’ Forum, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, has debunked the claim that he was opposed to President Muhammadu Buhari on the choice consensus to elect All Progressives Congress (APC) national and zonal officers.

Fayemi vehemently rejected the rumour, saying at no time did he describe consensus mulled by the President as undemocratic as being bandied around.

Fayemi at a policy dialogue organised by the Centre for Democracy and Development

(CDD) in Abuja on Thursday, was quoted to have rejected the consensus option for APC convention while answering questions posed by partakers.

But a statement by Fayemi and signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Yinka Oyebode, yesterday, branded his painted opposition to consensus as a misrepresentation of fact and all he said at the event.

The statement said: “The general public is hereby notified that a news story in circulation with the above headline is a misrepresentation of the views of the Governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi.

“Fayemi at a policy dialogue organised by the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD) in Abuja on Thursday, was quoted as rejecting the consensus arrangement President Muhammadu Buhari reached with the Governors ahead of the party’s convention.

“It must be stated, however, that Governor Fayemi’s presentation at the event was about democracy in West Africa and democratic reversal in Mali, Guinea and Burkina Faso and not about his party convention.”

Shedding more light on how the issue came to the fore, Fayemi stated that: “For the avoidance

of doubt, Governor Fayemi in response to a question from the audience accusing the President of imposing a Chairman on the party at the forthcoming convention, stated that the President’s priority was the unity of the party and he didn’t know about the President endorsing any candidate for Chairman.

“But if indeed the President has expressed such a view, the President that he knows is a democrat and those who do not share the view may of course contest.

“Governor Fayemi is well known as a leader not given to frivolous and distracting talk.”

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Court Orders Final Forfeiture of Diezani’s Lekki Property to FG Wale Igbintade A Federal High Court in Lagos, yesterday, ordered the final forfeiture of a vacant plot of land situated at Plot 13, Block I, Oniru Chieftaincy Family Private Estate, Lekki, Lagos, allegedly belonging to a former Nigeria Petroleum Minister, Mrs. Diezani Alison-Madueke.

Justice Akintayo Aluko made the order following an application filed by the Head, Legal Section of the Economic and Financial

Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Anselem Ozioko, but moved and argued by a legal Officer in the Commission, Mr. Abbas Mohammed, Justice Babs Kuewuni had on May 15, 2018, granted interim forfeiture of the said land before he was transferred out of jurisdiction.

In making the final forfeiture yesterday, Justice Aluko held “Upon this motion on notice dated February 17, 2022 coming’ before this Honourable Court the

25th day of March, 2022, praying the Court for the following reliefs; a final order forfeiting the properties/assets listed and described in the schedule herein to the Federal Government of Nigeria.

“Upon reading affidavit in support of the motion paper sworn to by Babana Job, of Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) of 15A Awolowo Road, Ikoyi, Lagos State.

“And the court having heard

A.O. Mohammed Esq, for the Plaintiff/ Applicant moved the application praying the court to grant the reliefs sought as endorsed on the motion paper.

“It is hereby ordered as follows, “That a final order is hereby granted forfeiting the property/asset listed and described in the schedule herein to the Federal Government of Nigeria.

The EFCC had listed the former Petroleum Minister, Mrs. Diezani Alison Madueke, a

Nigerian lawyer, Donald Chidi Amamgbo and MEZ Group LLC, as respondents in the suit numbered FHC/L/CS/811/2018.

Justice Babs Kuewuni, who ftried the case had sometime in 2018, granted interim forfeiture of the said land upon reading the affidavit in support of the motion paper sworn to by AbdulRasheed Bawa, (now the chairman of the Commission).

The court also directed the EFCC to notify the persons in whose possession the properties sought to

be forfeited are found to appear before the Court and show cause within 14 days why the properties should not be forfeited to the Federal Government of Nigeria.

The order also directed the EFCC to publish in any Newspaper of the Interim Order, for persons in whose possession the properties sought to be forfeited are found or anyone who is interested in the properties sought to be forfeited to appear before this Court to show cause within 14 days.

Kanu Sues FG, Buhari, AGF, Demands N25bn Damages over ‘Unlawful Extradition, Forced Disappearance’ Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia Leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, yesterday, asked a Federal High Court in Umuahia to declare that his extradition from Kenya on June 27, 2021 was illegal and a violation of his fundamental rights.

Kanu also asked the court to make an order mandating and compelling the defendants to pay him the sum of N25 billion as compensation for the physical, mental, emotional, psychological, property and other damages suffered as a result of the infringements of his fundamental rights by the respondents.

The applicant had before now approached an Abia State High Court over the same issue but in a segmented judgment on January 19, 2022 the court declined jurisdiction on the aspect of extraordinary rendition. The reason given by the court was that the issue of rendition related to extradition, which lies within the exclusive jurisdiction of the Federal High Court.

The IPOB leader has therefore filed a suit generis case before Justice Evelyn’s Anyadike of the Umuahia Division of the Federal High Court primarily aimed at “redressing the infamous unlawful expulsion or extraordinary rendition.”

Buhari in Lagos Tuesday for Tinubu’s Birthday Colloquium Segun James As the issue of good governance continues to take the centre stage as the nation moves towards the 2023 general election, it will be the focus of the 13th Annual Bola Tinubu Colloquium which will be presided by President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday, at the Eko Hotel, Lagos.

A press statement signed by the Chairman of the Media and Publicity Sub-committee and the State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotoso, states that the colloquium will feature a panel session where some of Nigeria’s leading technology entrepreneurs will discuss on, ‘Technology, Entrepreneurship

and the future of work’.

The panel discussion to be moderated by Tomilayo Akanni-Aluko will have Bosun Tijani, Chief Executive Officer of Co-Creation Hub, as the Lead Discussant. Other panelists include Samson Ogbole, Managing Director, Soiless Farms, Temie Giwa-Tubosun, Group Chief Executive, Life Bank, Kikelomo Fola-Ogunniya, Co-founder, Jand2Gidi and Lot Madaki, Chief Executive Officer, Madaki Shoes.

Professor Olufemi Bamiro, former Vice Chancellor of University of Ibadan will be the keynote speaker and is expected to engage the central theme, ‘Pivoting Nigeria into the new world order: Imperatives of Good Governance’.

Police Constable Stabs Two Bauchi Youths to Death Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi Bauchi State Police Command yesterday confirmed the death of two youths who were members of the Yelwa Security Committee, who were stabbed and killed by police personnel on Thursday.

The Command in a press release yesterday signed by the Command PPRO, SP Ahmed Wakili, stated that “On 24/03/2022 at about 2230hrs, a patrol team attached to E’ Division while on visibility patrol around a black spot at Rafin zurfi, Yelwa, arrested

PC Lukman Madaki with F/ no. 519342, 29 years of Toro Division attached to Sports Office, Bauchi State Police Command Headquarters.”

The release further stated that, “In a bid to resist arrest, PC Lukman employed the use of Jack knife, stabbed and injured the following members of the Peace and Security Committee attached to the patrol team: Abdulmalik Mohammed 22 years of Sabon Gida, Yelwa; Sadiq 23 years of Sabon Gida Yelwa and Nazifi Mohammed 19 years of Yelwan labourer.”

ANOTHER FEATHER . . .

L-R: General Manager, Marketing and Corporate Communication, Coscharis Group, Mr. Abiona Babarinde,; President and Chairman in Council, Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, Mallam Mukhtar Sirajo; and Chairman, Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, Lagos State chapter, Mrs Comfort Nwankwo, at the induction ceremony for the Master Class membership course in Lagos… recently

Pandemonium as Suspected Cultists Kill Rival Gang Member

James Sowole in Abeokuta

Pandemonium broke out in Oluwo area of Abeokuta, Ogun State capital, following the killing of a popular area boy known as Tommy by suspected cultists.

The deceased, according to reports, was reportedly killed late Thursday in the Panseke area of the state capital.

Tommy as he was popularly called, was said to have

been hacked to death with either an axe or a machete, going by the cuts on his lifeless body.

It was gathered that Tommy, must have been killed by members of the Aiye confraternity, as many rumoured him to be of the rival Eiye cult group.

Sequel to the killing of Tommy, tension gripped residents of Oluwo over fear of possible reprisal attacks.

Many shops and residential

buildings were under lock and key in the students’ populated environment.

Some residents have also deserted the area as some people have vacated their residence to seek refuge elsewhere.

Confirming the situation, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Mr. Abimbola Oyeyemi, for Ogun State Command, described the incident as a cult clash.

Oyeyemi said 18 persons had

been arrested in connection with the killing of Tommy.

He enjoined residents of the area not to panic, saying police were on top of the situation.

“It was a cult clash and the cultists killed one of them last night around Panseke.

18 suspects have since been arrested in connection with the incident.

“The people need not to fear.

We have deployed policemen to the area. We are on top of the situation,” Oyeyemi said.

Drama As 2 Groups Attempt to Purchase Nomination Form for Niger PDP Governorship Aspirant Laleye Dipo in Minna There was drama at the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) national secretariat in Abuja on Thursday when two groups from Niger State attempted to buy a governorship nomination form for a governorship aspirant Alhaji Abdullahi Isah Jankara.

One of the groups was made up of members of Jankaras’ ethnic nationality in Lapai Local

Government Area of Niger State and the other which styled itself as ‘Oil boys’ both presented the nomination fee of N21m bank drafts to acquire the form.

Reports had it that there was confusion leading to the aspirant being invited to solve the problem.

It was gathered that Jankara had to go into several minutes of meetings with the leadership of the two groups before an amicable solution was found to the problem.

Accordingtothereport,itwasagreed that one of the bank drafts should be used to purchase the nomination form whiletheotheriscashedand50percent of the amount given to the other group.

When contacted Alhaji Jankara confirmed the development saying, “Some of my friends called and said that they are coming to pay for my nomination form and on arrival at the venue, we met another set of our friends who had also come with another draft for the same

purpose.

“We were able to resolve it among ourselves. I am humbled by their actions, and I look forward to using my goodwill for the development of Niger State.”

The collection of the nomination form by Jankara, a former staff of the Directorate of Petroleum Resources (DPR), has made him the first PDP aspirant in the state to collect the governorship nomination form.

HURIWA Cries out as Power Outage, Fuel Scarcity Cripple Businesses Civil rights advocacy group, Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA), has decried the twin monster of power outage and fuel scarcity that have crippled many businesses in the first quarter of 2022.

HURIWA, in a statement by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, said it was pathetic that the federal government led by President Muhammadu Buhari and his ministers gathered in Abuja for the All Progressives Congress

(APC) convention while ordinary Nigerians suffer perpetually due to erratic power supply and unending collapse of national grid as well as fuel scarcity.

The group also said it was very unfortunate that all university students were at home for over six weeks as a result of the strike embarked upon by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) due to the failure of the federal government to accede to the demands of the striking lecturers while

government officials send their wards to study overseas with taxpayers’ money.

HURIWA’s Onwubiko said, “It is alarming that the persistent twin social evils of fuel scarcity and erratic electricity power shortage has crippled hundreds of thousands of businesses in the country with the attendant joblessness, high crime rates, hunger, starvation afflicting millions of Nigerians as a result of this fundamental

display of profound ineptitude and inefficiency by the federal government.

“The fact that the fuel crisis has been allowed to fester shows either that the APC federal government instigated the fuel scarcity to breed the virus of street urchins who are largely from either Niger Republic or Kano State and who are the main agents selling fuel in jerry cans especially in the FCT. These same thugs voted for APC in Kano, Zaria, Sokoto.

SATURDAY MARCH 26, 2022 • T H I S D AY

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SATURDAY MARCH 26, 2022 • T H I S D AY

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MARCH 26, 2022 • THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

INSIGHT

The make or mar convention...

Heroes and Heroines of Okpebho

Nigeria’s Leadership Labyrinth

A

leadership question has continued to burn in Nigeria since independence was attained in 1960, but especially since a historic return to democracy in 1999.

The fact that it took less than six years after independence for the military to determine that there was a leadership vacuum in Nigeria, and stepped in to supposedly salvage the situation through the military coup of 1966 remains a national tragedy because it prepared the grounds for the Nigerian Civil War of 1967-70, future military coups, and many of the difficulties the country has encountered in 61 years of its existence.

Today, at all levels of governance, it is beyond doubt that good leadership remains a holy grail which continues to elude Nigeria. This fact grounds many of the challenges confronting Nigeria today because without good leadership, the country has become like a rudderless ship, one perpetually lurching from one storm to the other.

The early 1990s witnessed some of the most brutal military dictatorships Nigeria has known. The Babangida regime which among other atrocities successfully annulled the 1993 presidential elections conducted in Nigeria was followed by the unmatched brutality and brigandage of the Abacha regime which expertly combined horrific human rights abuses with a horrendous plunder of public funds.

Thus, it was with a mighty sigh of relief that Nigerians welcomed the transition to democracy which began in 1998 and ended in May 1999.It took the Grim Reaper to make the transition possible as the death did what the ruthless transience of power could not do in raking the back of the arrowhead of the regime.

Genuine change takes time so even the keenest watchers of events in Nigeria were not expecting Nigeria`s long delayed transition to democracy to birth immediate miracles in restoring the country`s lost glory especially as the military which had played such an ignominious role in setting the country many years back still lurked. Mr. Olusegun Obasanjo was elected president, becoming the first Nigerian to taste civilian presidency having tasted its military equivalent. There has since been a second.

From 1999 to 2007, Mr. Obasanjo laid the foundation for many of what still obtains in the country – the good, the bad and the ugly. His legacy which until 2006 was quite mixed was finally muddled when he tried to copy suffocating dictatorships across Africa by attempting amend Nigeria`s constitution to perpetuate himself in power via a third term agenda when the constitution only allowed for two terms of four years each.

Mr. Umaru Musa Yar`Adua (of blessed memory), Mr.

Goodluck Ebele Jonathan have all come and gone since 2007.

When the Peoples Democratic Party fell to an unprecedented defeat in 2015, in Mr. Muhammadu Buhari and the All Progressives Congress came in to begin a new era that has been anything but new.

It has been seven years of the Mr. Buhari’s administration.

The APC has remained the party in power in many states and local governments, yet Nigeria`s leadership conundrum remains.

In fact, it appears that with each day that passes by, Nigerians lose just a bit more ground in the battle to enshrine good leadership at every level. But why exactly has good leadership continued to elude a country extravagantly blessed with the extent of Nigeria`s embarrassment of human and natural resources? Is it that the cook is not good enough or that she lacks the right condiments to express her culinary skills?

Some Nigerians have argued that those who currently occupy the halls of power are not to blame for the country`s intractable leadership crises as they are themselves products of the society they reflect.

Kene Obiezu, keneobiezu@gmail.com

P

ower belongs to God, who also made gods in persons in order to actualize His command. For the forthcoming Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Assembly primaries nominations, it is the delegates that will be the gods in the matter, who will actualize the orders of the Supreme Being.

It is frustrating to know that those we empowered through our votes are now bracing up to play God as the party primaries approaches.

They have succeeded in hardening their hearts like that of the Biblical Pharaoh; refusing to hearken to the voice of reason and the much-talked about political principle of Ebakota.

Even, these set of people are already boasting about their political chariots, financial power and wealth, and have concluded that the apostles of Ebakota will eat their sacrifice at the end of the day and go back to their vomit. It must be made very clear without any ambiguity that the late

T H E SAT U R DAY N E W S PA P E R EDITOR YEMI ADEBOWALE DEPUTY EDITOR AHAMEFULA OGBU MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN MANAGING EDITOR BOLAJI ADEBIYI THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE

T H I S DAY N E W S PA P E R S L I M I T E D EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU, IJEOMA NWOGWUGWU, EMMANUEL EFENI DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS 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

Chief Tony Anenih, painstakingly put in place a tradition for the Edo Central.

Many notable Ishan politicians who are still alive are beneficiaries of such fantastic tradition of mutual understanding and political equity and fairness. With Chief Anenih’s demise nothing has changed as his apostles still believe in one accord and unity, which has paid off successfully in the past.

Therefore, those who are now pushing to jettison or undermine the Esan traditional political accord of the leaders in Edo Central, because of too much money they have amassed are taking their jokes too far.

From the grapevine we are in the know that those who have benefitted from our collective votes in the past, are planning and hell bent on using foreign currencies during the party primaries proper. But, they are in for a shocker; as they will be resisted adequately by the delegates.

These set of desperate politicians who are out to undo the comfortable and positive political arrangement laid down by the legendary Chief Tony Anenih must be reminded of the proverbial saying between a child and father that: Vulture meat is not good for consumption. They should go and ask those who flouted the order of the late National Leader, Chief Anenih, and went ahead to spend their money in the party primaries elections. This is calling on the well-meaning Esan political leaders never to succumb to the plots being planned against Ebakota by these band of political confusionists and spoilers.

They must be resisted by all and sundry, they must never be allowed to disrupt the laid down convenient political culture in Edo Central, which the people are known for; and which has brought the entire Esan land the much-needed peace and respect.

The common voice of Esan people is our hope! Our common voice is our strength! Our common voice is our pride!

Our common voice is our culture!

Diagi Lucky, Benin City

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER MARCH 26, 2022

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NEWS

US Sanctions 6 Nigerians for Supporting Boko Haram Bennett Oghifo and Michael Olugbode The United States DepartPHQW RI WKH 7UHDVXU\·V 2΀FH of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) yesterday said it had designated a network of VL[ LQGLYLGXDOV FRQQHFWHG WR Nigeria-based terrorist group, Boko Haram. $FFRUGLQJ WR D VWDWHPHQW RQ OFAC’s website, all six were found guilty of establishing a %RNR +DUDP FHOO LQ WKH 8QLWHG

Arab Emirates (UAE) to raise funds for and provide material DVVLVWDQFH WR %RNR +DUDP insurgents in Nigeria.

2)$&·V DFWLRQ IROORZV DUUHVWV SURVHFXWLRQV DQG designations in the UAE in September 2021, demonstrating WKH FRPPLWPHQW RI WKH (PLUDWL JRYHUQPHQW WR XVLQJ MXGLFLDO PHDVXUHV DQG WDUJHWHG ÀQDQFLDO VDQFWLRQV WR GLVUXSW WKH ÁRZ of funds to these networks. ´:LWK WKLV DFWLRQ WKH 8QLWHG States joins the UAE in target-

LQJ WHUURULVW ÀQDQFLQJ QHWZRUNV RI PXWXDO FRQFHUQ µ VDLG 8QGHU 6HFUHWDU\ RI WKH 7UHDVXU\ %ULDQ 1HOVRQ ´7UHDVXU\ FRQWLQXHV WR WDUJHW ÀQDQFLDO IDFLOLWDWRUV RI WHUURULVW DFWLYLW\ ZRUOGZLGH :H ZHOFRPH PXOWLODWHUDO DFWLRQ on this Boko Haram network to ensure that it is not able to move any further funds through the international ÀQDQFLDO V\VWHP µ OFAC designated Abdurrahman Ado Musa, Salihu Yusuf Adamu, Bashir Ali

Yusuf, Muhammed Ibrahim Isa, Ibrahim Ali Alhassan, and Surajo Abubakar Muhammad SXUVXDQW WR ([HFXWLYH 2UGHU (E.O.) 13224, as amended, ZKLFK WDUJHWV WHUURULVWV OHDGHUV DQG R΀FLDOV RI WHUURULVW JURXSV and those providing support to WHUURULVWV RU DFWV RI WHUURULVP The U.S. Department of State designated Boko Haram as a Foreign Terrorist Organisation DQG D 6SHFLDOO\ 'HVLJQDWHG Global Terrorist on November 14, 2013.

Ukraine Expresses Gratitude to Nigeria for Standing by Her Michael Olugbode in Abuja Ukraine has expressed apSUHFLDWLRQ WR 1LJHULD DQG RWKHU nations that have stood by her in the ongoing war against Russia who invaded her territory on February 24, 2022.

Speaking to journalists in Abuja, WKH 'HIHQFH $WWDFKH WR WKH (PEDVV\ of Ukraine in the Nigeria, Colonel Andrii Vasyliev, asked for more VDQFWLRQV DJDLQVW 5XVVLD LQVLVWing that Russia was planning FKHPLFDO DWWDFN RQ 8NUDLQH DQG KDG SHUSHWUDWHG ZDU FULPHV ZLWK DWWDFNHG WDUJHWHG DW FKLOGUHQ DQG some women raped by Russian soldiers.

9DV\OLHY VDLG ´%\ NLOOLQJ FLYLOLDQV 5XVVLD FRQWLQXHV WR FRPPLW FULPHV against humanity as defined by the

Statute of the International Military Tribunal and the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, F\QLFDOO\ GLVUHJDUGLQJ DOO UHTXLUHments of the Geneva Convention UHODWLYH WR WKH 3URWHFWLRQ RI &LYLOLDQ 3HUVRQV LQ 7LPH RI :DU $FFRUGLQJ WR WKHVH QRUPV LQWHQWLRQDO DWWDFNV RQ FLYLOLDQV ZKR DUH QRW GLUHFWO\ LQYROYHG LQ KRVWLOLWLHV DUH HTXDWHG WR ZDU FULPHV “As a result of Russia’s armed DJJUHVVLRQ LQ 8NUDLQH FKLOGUHQ were killed and more than 140 were injured.

6LQFH WKH EHJLQQLQJ RI WKH Russian invasion of Ukraine, the 2IILFH RI WKH &RPPLVVLRQHU IRU +XPDQ 5LJKWV KDV EHHQ UHFHLYLQJ FRPSODLQWV IURP 8NUDLQLDQV DERXW VH[XDO FULPHV FRPPLWWHG E\ WKH 5XVVLDQ PLOLWDU\ µ

Clark Challenges Scholars, Researchers to Document Things on Niger Delta Olusegun Samuel in Yenagoa

FOCUSED ON PRESIDENCY… R-L: Chief Dele Momodu collecting his letter of intent and nomination forms from Princess Chinwe Nnorom, to contest the Peoples Democratic Party’s primaries for the 2023 Presidential election from, after paying the N40 million fee in Abuja...yesterday

Foremost Ijaw national leader and elder statesman, Chief Edwin Clark, has urged Ijaw and Niger 'HOWD VFKRODUV DQG UHVHDUFKHUV to make deliberate efforts to FRQVFLRXVO\ FDUU\ RXW PRUH GRFXPHQWDWLRQ RI WKH LVVXHV WKDW FRQVWLWXWH WKH 1LJHU 'HOWD TXHVWLRQ LQ WKH 1LJHULDQ 6WDWH &ODUN DOVR FKDOOHQJHG ,MDZ DQG Niger Delta leaders and stakeKROGHUV WR VXSSRUW SURMHFWV DQG LQLWLDWLYHV DLPHG DW GRFXPHQWLQJ WKH FXOWXUH DQG WKH VWUXJJOHV RI the people of the region for the benefit of younger generations. +H VSRNH DW WKH RIILFLDO SXEOLF SUHVHQWDWLRQ DQG ODXQFK of a book entitled, ‘Culture, Environment and The Niger 'HOWD 4XHVWLRQ $ )HVWVFKULIW LQ

+RQRXU RI 3URIHVVRU %HQMDPLQ 2NDED· ZKR LV WKH 3UHVLGHQW RI Ijaw National Congress, held at the Federal University, Otuoke, Bayelsa State, on Thursday.

7KH SDJH ERRN ZLWK FKDSWHUV HGLWHG E\ 3URI (GHW Abasiekong and Dr. Raimi Lasisi, ZDV ZULWWHQ E\ FRQWULEXWRUV LQFOXGLQJ DFDGHPLFV PDQ\ RI whom were mentored by Okaba, ZKR LV FXUUHQWO\ WKH 'HDQ 6FKRRO RI 3RVW *UDGXDWH 6WXGLHV )HGHUDO University, Otuoke.

Clark, represented by a former Nigeria Ambassador WR WKH 6FDQGLQDYLDQ FRXQWULHV Boladei Igali, said, “Sometimes, SHRSOH DVVRFLDWH WKH 1LJHU 'HOWD with only oil but there is a lot to talk about the Niger Delta. I think there is a lot of study to be done in the region.

First Female Vice Chancellor in Nigeria, NSCDC to Collaborate with US, France in Personnel Training Grace Alele-Willaims Dies at 89 Ahamefula Ogbu )RUPHU 9LFH &KDQFHOORU RI WKH University of Benin and Nigeria’s ÀUVW IHPDOH 9LFH &KDQFHOORU 3URI *UDFH $OHOH :LOOLDPV KDV GLHG in Lagos at the age of 89.

7KH DFDGHPLF ZKR VFRUHG D VWULQJ RI ÀUVWV LQFOXGLQJ EHLQJ WKH ÀUVW IHPDOH WR JHW D 'RFWRUDWH 'HJUHH LQ 1LJHULD ZDV EHIRUH KHU GHPLVH D 3URIHVVRU RI 0DWKHPDWLFV 7KH YHU\ FHUHEUDO $OHOH Williams went down in history DV WKH 9LFH &KDQFHOORU ZKR UHGXFHG FXOWLVP WKDW ZDV YHU\ perennial before her appointment to the barest minimum ZLWK DQ DWWHQGDQW SHDFH LQ WKH FDPSXV 6KH ZDV DSSRLQWHG 9LFH &KDQFHOORU LQ Although details of her demise and the hospital where LW KDSSHQHG DUH VWLOO VNHWFK\ D

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in Dambam yesterday though GHWDLOV RI WKH NLGQDS DQG UHVFXH ZHUH VWLOO VNHWFK\ DV DW SUHVV time.

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found in Dambam, where his DEGXFWRUV GURSSHG KLP 7KH\ GURSSHG KLP DW D FKHFNSRLQW and from there, he was brought KRPH µ WKH IDPLO\ VRXUFH FRQÀUPHG ,W LV KRZHYHU QRW FOHDU LI the family paid any ransom but some argued that given the short period between the time he was kidnapped and his release, it was not likely that

any ransom was paid. (ͿRUWV WR VSHDN ZLWK WKH ER\ proved abortive as we were tagged insensitive for wanting to speak with him knowing how WUDXPDWLVLQJ WKH H[SHULHQFH ZDV Lately, kidnap for ransom, HVSHFLDOO\ RI SHRSOH FRQVLGHUHG DV KLJK SURÀOH DUH ULIH DFURVV WKH FRXQWU\ EXW VHYHUDO RSHUDWLRQV DFURVV WKH FRXQWU\ DQG ORZHULQJ WKH IUHTXHQF\ RI WKH PDODLVH

Michael Olugbode in Abuja 7KH 1LJHULD 6HFXULW\ DQG &LYLO 'HIHQFH &RUSV 16&'& LV JRLQJ WR FROODERUDWH ZLWK both the United States of $PHULFD DQG )UDQFH LQ GLIferent areas of training and manpower development aimed at repositioning it WR EHFRPH D ZRUOG FODVV organisation.

The Commandant General of the Corps, Dr. Ahmed Audi, GLVFORVHG WKLV \HVWHUGD\ ZKLOH playing host to two separate delegations from the U.S and )UDQFH He expressed his readiness

WR HQKDQFH WKH FDSDFLW\ RI his personnel through difIHUHQW FDWHJRULHV RI WUDLQLQJ IRU HͿHFWLYH SHUIRUPDQFH LQ GLͿHUHQW DUHDV RI WKH &RUSV· mandates. $FFRUGLQJ WR $XGL WKH FRUSV ZKLFK LV D OHDG DJHQF\ LQ WKH SURWHFWLRQ RI FULWLFDO QDWLRQDO DVVHWV DQG LQIUDVWUXFWXUH GLVDVWHU DQG FULVLV PDQDJHPHQW UHJXODWLRQ RI 3ULYDWH Guards Companies and other JLYHQ DG KRF DVVLJQPHQWV VXFK DV WKH $JUR 5DQJHUV FRXQWHU LQVXUJHQF\ RSHUDWLRQV DPRQJ others, would perform better LI WKHUH LV HQKDQFHG FDSDFLW\ of its personnel.

Troops Overrun Sambisa Forest Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja In what appears to be signs of the end, troops yesterday RYHUUDQ WHUURULVW HQFODYHV LQ 6DPELVD )RUHVW DQG FDSWXUHG a major stronghold, Ukuna/ Camp Zairo.

Sambisa Forest has been a PDMRU HQFODYH RI %RNR +DUDP DQG WKH ,VODPLF 6WDWH IRU :HVW $IULFDQ 3URYLQFH ,6:$3 LQ LWV \HDU LQVXUJHQF\ FDPSDLJQ DJDLQVW WKH VWDWH 6R IDU LQVXUJHQWV have surrendered to troops VLQFH 6HSWHPEHU A statement issued by 'HIHQFH +HDGTXDUWHUV '+4

said troops of Operation Hadin Kai routed the terrorists and FDSWXUHG WKHLU HQFODYH The statement signed by WKH 'LUHFWRU 'LUHFWRUDWH RI 'HIHQFH 0HGLD 2SHUDWLRQV (DDMO), Maj. Gen. Bernard Onyeuko, stated that following the military’s onslaught, the WHUURULVWV ÁHG DQG OHIW EHKLQG their war arsenal.

“On or about 0900hrs on 24 0DUFK WKH JDOODQW WURRSV of Operation Hadin Kai in a VSHFLDO RSHUDWLRQ FRGHQDPHG 23 'HVHUW 6DQLW\ FDSWXUHG the terrorist stronghold of Ukuba/Camp Zairo in Sambisa Forest.

15

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ MARCH 26, 2022

Verdict on Electoral Act: The Rule of Malami again

T

he actions and inactions of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, no longer shock me. I had long given up on him because of his unending shenanigans. This country has never had it so bad with an AGF, who persistently allows his personal interest to overshadow his job. The Rule of Law in Nigeria, under this AGF, has become The Rule of Malami. His reaction to the Match 18 Federal High Court, Umuahia’s ruling nullifying Section 84 (12) of the Electoral Act 2022 barring political appointees from contesting elections was scandalous but I was not shocked. It was just the typical Malami pushing aside the Rule of Law to protect personal interest. So, The Rule of Malami takes over.

Few days before the judgement, Malami had declared that the federal government would explore other means, including the court to ensure the said portion of the law, which he claimed offends other sections of the Constitution, was expunged from Electoral Act 2022. It was obvious that he was planning a judicial assault on the law, because it would hinder his political ambition. It is common knowledge that Malami has his eyes fixed on becoming Kebbi State governor in 2023. For him, to resign as minister, 10 months to the general election, will be suicidal.

So, barely a few hours after Justice Evelyn Anyadike of the Federal High Court, Umuahia’s decision, Malami issued a statement saying the federal government “will immediately give effect to the judgment by gazetting it.”

The AGF declared: “The Act will be gazetted factoring the effect of the judgment into consideration and deleting the constitutionally offensive provision accordingly. The provision of Section 84(12) of the Electoral Act 2022 is not part of our law and will be treated accordingly. This is in line with the dictates of chapter 7, Part 4, Section 287 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) on enforcement of decisions that makes it a point of duty and obligation on all authorities and persons to have the judgment of the Federal High Court, among others, enforced.”

Haba! How can Malami be talking about gazetting a judgement obtained at a lower court, with the option of appeal still there? Besides, in the production of gazettes by the Executive, the Attorney General cannot delete or add any provision to the Act once signed into law by the governor or president. All the authorities I spoke to agreed. This ruling that the AGF should forthwith delete Section 84

Malami

(12) from the Electoral Act 2022 is weird.

Where did he derive this power from?

The other part of Malami’s reaction in which he talked about enforcing the Justice Anyadike judgement is scandalous. I guess our AGF is so sure that the judgement would be “effectively managed” at the appeal court. So, he has been all over celebrating this disgraceful judgement that they deliberately went to Umuahia to get. “The judgment will be recognised by the government printers in printing the Electoral Act 2022. My office will accordingly give effect to the court’s judgment in line with the dictates of the law and the spirit of the judgment,” so declared our calamitous AGF. Justice Anyadike’s judgement is full of holes. This is what is called “Jankara” judgement in Lagos. I am sure it would not survive at the appellate court. The fact that the plaintiff, Nduka Edede, a member of Action Alliance (AA), did not join the body that enacted the law, i.e. the National Assembly, is enough for Justice Anyadike to strike out the suit.

She did not.

In nullifying Section 84 (12) of the Electoral Act 2022, Justice Anyadike, held that Sections 66 (1)(f), 107 (1)(f), 137 (1) (f) and 182 (1)(f) of the 1999 Constitution already stipulated that appointees of government seeking to contest elections are only to resign at least 30 days to the date of the election and that any other law

that mandated such appointees to resign or leave office at any time before that was unconstitutional, invalid, illegal, null and void, to the extent of its inconsistency with the clear provisions of the Constitution.

Sections 66(1)(f) and 107(1)(f) of the Constitution quoted by Justice Anyadike to back the ruling do not and cannot apply to political appointees. Those sections of the Constitution talked about people employed in the public service; political appointees are not included in the list of persons employed in the public service of either the federal government or state governments. As the name implies, they are simply “appointed.”

Lagos lawyer, Femi Falana elucidates: “Specifically, each of the aforesaid sections provides that no person shall be qualified for election if he is a person employed in the public service of the Federation or of any State and has not resigned, withdrawn or retired from such employment 30 days before the date of election.

“By virtue of section 318 of the Constitution, political appointees are not included in the list of persons employed in the public service. To that extent, section 84 (12) of the Electoral Act was annulled on a very faulty ground. No doubt, the Judge would have dismissed the case if his attention had been drawn to the cases of Dada V. Adeyeye (2005), Asogwa V. Chukwu (2003) and Ojonye V. Onu (2018) where the appellate courts held that political appointees or political office holders are not public servants as provided for under the Constitution.”

Another bizarre thing about this case on Section 84 (12) of the Electoral Act 2022 is that the defendant is unknown and the case was determined in a record 10 days.

It can’t happen anywhere in the world.

No wonder the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) is demanding for the process filed, and the record of proceedings in the case It is likewise heartwarming that the Senate resolved last Wednesday to appeal this weird judgment from Umuahia. The motion was sponsored by Senator George Sekibo and co-sponsored by 79 other Senators. So, 80 of the 109 senators are backing this appeal.

Sekibo’s presentation was instructive.

He gave further clarification on Section 84 (12) of the Electoral Act. Section 84(12) of the Electoral Act 2022 which states that “No political appointee at any level shall be voting delegate or be voted for at the convention or congress of any political party for the purpose of the nomination of candidates for any election.”

Sekibo clarifies: “Section 84 (12) of

Sanwo-Olu Must Tackle Corruption in LASTMA

O

ne agency that has massively damaged the image of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu is the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA). Officers and men of this agency have long abandoned their principal role of ensuring smooth transportation across the state; they are now largely involved in setting traps for motorists and collecting bribes. You will hardly find LASTMA working to prevent gridlocks or managing gridlocks.

You won’t find these malicious men at entry points, preventing drivers from entering BRT or one way lanes.

Anybody in doubt should visit the long stretch called Ikorodu Road at peak periods, particularly places like Ketu under bridge, Ketu bus stop, Mile 12 and Agric bus stops. The tarnished LASTMA boys have a notorious spot after the Mile 12 Bridge. Once a driver descends Mile 12 Bridge (inward Ikorodu) they lay siege for those that slightly stray into the BRT line (not lane). The line is drawn

so close to the descending part of the bridge.

So, drivers not used to this route fall victims.

What a country!

These traffic managers from hell hide in corners to apprehend drivers on the BRT lane or those who break the one-way rule. They then negotiate for bribes. This is now the priority of LASTMA boys across Lagos State. More often than not, they push apprehended drivers aside and forcefully take over their vehicles; even after they had been banned from doing so.

My dear Sanwo-Olu, your LASTMA is almost all about harassing motorists and collecting bribes. They have become terrorists on Lagos roads. You must stop this. One easy way of ending this madness is to strip LASTMA of the power of arrest. This will enable them concentrate on their main job of ensuring seamless transportation. Again, a lot of criminals have been recruited into this agency. You must overhaul LASTMA. This is food for thought for Sanwo-Olu today.

Sanwo-Olu

the Act exclusively refers to nomination conventions and congresses called for candidate selection and not participation in the general election which Sections 66 (1)(f), 137 (1)(g) and 182 (1)(g) referred to.

The interpretation of the meaning of the words ‘civil service’ and ‘public service’ in Section 318 was unambiguous. There’s a difference between the civil service or public service and political appointment.”

I expect the appellate court to throw away Justice Anyadike’s ruling. There is no wisdom in it. Political appointees interested in running for elective offices in 2023 should just resign before the primaries of their political parties. For me, this is candid; there is no breach of anybody’s right here.

Section 84 (12) of the Electoral Act 2022 will help to deepen democracy in this country. It is constitutional and valid. It has not in any way abridged the rights of political appointees to participate in the electoral process. The advantages conferred on political appointees participating in primaries must end.

Katsina, Kaduna Killings

H

uman lives have no meaning in this country. Those running the show care less about unending killings in our beloved country.

How do these leaders sleep with figures showing that in just two days, March 20 to March 21, 74 people were killed by terrorists in Kaduna and Katsina states? No fewer than 20 of them, including the village head, were killed in Ganar-Kiyawa, Bukkuyum Local Government Area of Zamfara State last Sunday. Terrorists attack Ganar-Kiyawa almost on daily basis to kill and abduct women/children.

Seventeen people were killed the following day in Juyi and Doruwa villages (Bungudu Local Government) of the same Zamfara State.

Also last Sunday, 37 deaths were recorded, two soldiers inclusive, when terrorists attacked four communities within Kagoro Chiefdom, Kaura Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

The response of security agents to these killings remains pathetic. Not a single one of the killers in Ganar-Kiyawa, Juyi, Doruwa and Kagoro Chiefdom has been apprehended. How long shall Nigerians continue to bury their loved ones? The security of the people is evidently no longer the priority of the Nigerian state.

On the flip side, Governor Aminu Masari of Katsina State who funneled millions of Naira to the terrorists in his state in the name of amnesty is now regretting his action. Masari recently admitted that with the benefit of hindsight, his government should never have negotiated with the terrorists, “let alone grant them amnesty because they are criminals.

The governor said some of the so-called repentant terrorists, who were released from custody as a result of the peace deals, were now leaders of terror gangs with more than 100 bands and various camps in Zamfara, Sokoto and Katsina states.

“In fact, I will never trust them again because we realised they are not ideologically inclined. So, we are negotiating with thieves.

They have failed me once; they have failed me twice so I will be a fool to go the same way. And you even see the Zamfara governor who engaged them. They have failed him more than three times. They are common criminals,” declared the governor.

The likes of Masari made terrorism lucrative with their so called amnesty and deals with the criminals. This is the mess that contributed to the growth of terrorism in Nigeria. When terrorists are paid in the name of peace, once the money finishes, they will return to the business. Now, Masari is weeping. It is not too late to deal with the terrorists. The Katsina governor should put pressure on President Buhari to do the needful.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER MARCH 26, 2022

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NEWS Gov Emmanuel Swears-in 6 New Commissioners, Tasks Them to Ensure Government Lands Safely Okon Bassey in Uyo

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Udom Emmanuel, yesterday, swore-in six new commissioners to replace those relieved of their appointments due to political engagements in

The newly sworn-in commissioners were urged to bring in tangible values to enable his administration to land well and safely at the end of the tenure.

Governor Emmanuel had recently relieved six members of his executive council with political ambition to enable

EFCC Seals Obiano’s Mansions in Anambra

EYES ON PRESIDENCY… Mr. Peter Obi speaking at the 4th Annual General Lecture of Freedom Online in Lagos...recently

US Provides Over $2m in New Equipment to Strengthen Nigeria’s Nuclear Capacity Segun James

ment transfer and associated training would enhance the police’s ability to interdict the smuggling of nuclear and radioactive material into and within Nigeria.

“Nigeria remains one of the United States’ key partners in combating the smuggling of illicit nuclear and radioactive material,” Dvorak said. “Nigeria stands tall not only in Africa, but globally, in its commitment WR SUHYHQW WKH WUD΀FNLQJ DQG use of materials that pose a threat to health and safety.”

UHQFH 16'' WUDQVIHUUHG ÀYH new mobile radiation detection The United States government V\VWHPV YDOXHG DW RYHU PLOis to work closely with Nigeria’s lion to the Nigeria Police Force.

Commissioner of Police in security services to provide technical assistance, equip- charge of Explosive Ordnance ment, professional exchange Disposal and Chemical, Biologiand training opportunities cal, Radiological and Nuclear WKDW VXSSRUW HͿRUWV WR FUHDWH (EOD-CBRN) Command, CP a more peaceful, prosperous Zannah Shettima, received the donation on behalf of the nation.

Following this, the U.S. Nigeria Police Force.

Complementing the donation, 'HSDUWPHQW RI (QHUJ\ 1DWLRQDO Nuclear Security Administration, SROLFH R΀FHUV SDUWLFLSDWHG WKURXJK LWV 2΀FH RI 1XFOHDU in a two-week training on the Smuggling Detection and Deter- operation of the detection

equipment, ensuring the police have the skills to combat the smuggling of nuclear and radioactive material. An additional R΀FHUV ZHUH WUDLQHG RQ WKH maintenance of the donated equipment.

Delivering remarks during an outdoor handover ceremony in Lagos, U.S. Consulate Assistant 5HJLRQDO 6HFXULW\ 2΀FHU -RQ Dvorak described the equipment donation as an important step in advancing the robust U.S.Nigeria security cooperation.

Dvorak noted that the equip-

Insurgency: NAF Wings Five New Pilots, Decorates Seven Air Warrant

Babalola Urges FG to Develop Fuel Strategic Reserves

Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja

In a bid to raise the competence level of personnel in order to contain insurgency and other security challenges in the country, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) \HVWHUGD\ ZLQJHG ÀYH QHZ SLORWV after undergoing requisite courses.

Also, seven newly promoted air ZDUUDQW R΀FHUV ZHUH GHFRUDWHG with their new ranks.

In his remarks, the Chief of WKH $LU 6WDͿ &$6 $LU 0DUVKDO Oladayo Amao, said the ceremony highlighted the determination of the leadership to sustain critical airpower capability required for joint force employment in pursuit

of national security imperatives.

“Indeed, this is the second key driver of my vision which is to pursue purposeful training and human capacity development.

1LQHW\ QLQH R΀FHUV DQG airmen and airwomen are undergoing various training across various specialties in various countries including the USA, UK, South Africa, India, France Egypt and Pakistan among others,” he said. ´,Q DGGLWLRQ 1LJHULDQ Air Force personnel across all specialties are being trained to deliver airpower in light of NAF’s involvement in theatres of operations across the country.

Director of All Grace Energy, Engineer Sunday Babalola, has urged the federal government to develop Nigeria’s fuel strategic reserves to avert future fuel shortages.

He stated that the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited should ensure that Nigeria has enough buffer.

Babalola, a retired Deputy Director of the now-defunct Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR), in an interview, commended the federal government, Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, and Nigerians for their efforts and maturity during the last queues in petrol stations across some states in Nigeria as a result of

scarcity of premium motor spirit, popularly called petrol.

Babalola said though the fuel scarcity lingered for some weeks, the federal government tried its best to restore normalcy.

According to him, Nigerians exhibited appreciable maturity and avoided protest or any violent reaction but showed understanding with the government.

It could be recalled that over 100 million liters of fuel recently imported into the country, were said to be adulterated, containing high methanol quantities above Nigeria’s specification, which led to long queues at fuel stations in major cities in Nigeria.

Obi Urges Nigerians to Review Political Leadership Selection Process Former governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi, has called on Nigerians to review the political leadership selection process in the country, saying that until Nigerians begin to focus on character, integrity, competence and capacity, the political future of the country would remain bleak.

Obi made the call at the WK $QQXDO *HQHUDO /HFWXUH of Freedom Online held in Lagos recently, themed ‘Nigeria’s Political Indices: Bright or Bleak Future?’ He restated that leadership failure in the

country remains the bane of Nigeria’s development, arguing that intangible assets, law and order, character, capacity and integrity of leaders are critical components of growth of any nation.

He urged Nigerians to always ask pertinent questions about the character of intending political leaders, urging those who have not created and managed wealth before should not have wealth of the nation entrusted to them.

“We must begin to look at

them pursue their dreams.

The sworn-in commissioners were cleared Thursday after being screened by the State House of Assembly.

Speaking shortly after DGPLQLVWHULQJ 2DWK RI 2΀FH to the new commissioners, the governor said the six joined his team at a very critical moment when his administration was having much to deliver to Akwa Ibom people He charged the new team members to imitate Jesus’ disciples by putting the interest of Akwa Ibom people ahead of personal interests.

the history of people who vie for any political position in our country. Where was WKH SHUVRQ \HDUV DJR" What was he doing? How has he managed wealth and other leadership positions?

These are critical questions we need to ask to be sure we are selecting capable hands for our dear country,” Obi said.

Obi maintained that the greatest investment any nation can make is the investment in the people. He insisted that while structural

development is important, human development is more important and should be prioritised by any visionary government.

He reminded Nigerians KRZ LPSRUWDQW WKH HOHFtions are and why they must ensure that the right crop of OHDGHUV DUH HOHFWHG LQWR R΀FH “It is time we shunned ethnic and religious sentiments, and voted a truly Nigerian leader who will unite every section of the country and ensure integrated development of the nation,” Obi concluded.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has sealed some properties traced to the immediate past governor of Anambra State, Willie 2ELDQR DW 1JR]LND (VWDWH in Awka, the state capital.

Former governor Obiano, who was arrested by the ()&& DW WKH 0XUWDOD 0RKDPmed International Airport on his way to the United States after handing over to his successor, Prof. Charles 6ROXGR ZDV RQ 0DUFK granted administrative bail

after spending six days in EFCC custody.

The EFCC placed a notice on the properties, asking WKH SXEOLF WR NHHS RͿ 7KH notice reads: ‘EFCC, Keep 2Ϳ 8QGHU ,QYHVWLJDWLRQ· The former governor was arrested for alleged “misappropriation of public funds” LQFOXGLQJ 1 ELOOLRQ 6XUH 3 DQG 1 ELOOLRQ VHFXULW\ votes, which was withdrawn in cash. Part of the funds was also allegedly diverted WR ÀQDQFH SROLWLFDO DFWLYLWLHV in the state.

IG Intervenes in Delta Clerics’ Clash over Alleged Ritual Sylvester Idowu inWarri

&% ,*3 6(& $%- 92/ VLJQHG E\ WKH The Inspector General of Principal Staff Officer, CP Idowu Police, Usman Alkali Baba, 2ZRKXQZD DQG GDWHG 0DUFK has directed the Force Criminal FRS\ RI ZKLFK ZDV VLJKWHG Investigations Department on Tuesday.

The IGP’s letter was in (FCID) to intervene in the crisis between the General Overseer response to Pastor Ighosotu’s RI &KULVW 0HUF\ODQG 'HOLYHUDQFH complaint to the Force Head0LQLVWU\ (IIXUXQ 'HOWD 6WDWH quarters through the legal Prophet Jeremiah Fufeyin and FKDPEHUV RI 0LNH 2]HNKRPH the General Overseer of God’s (SAN) that Prophet Fufeyin had Delight Gospel Assembly, John been using security operatives and the media to harass him Ighosotu.

The IGP’s position was over an issue that is currently contained in a letter referenced under police investigation.

Jedy-Agba Rallies Support for C’River APC, Cautions against Division 0LQLVWHU RI 6WDWH 3RZHU Goddy Jedy-Agba, has called on stakeholders and members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Cross River State to work together to save the party from collapse.

Jedy-Agba, who stated this in a

statement issued in Abuja recently noted that he is not comfortable with the tension generated in the party over the National Working &RPPLWWHH SRVLWLRQV ]RQHG WR the state, as well as the Abuja Court ruling that sacked some APC lawmakers over defection.

2023: Akwa Ibom Ex-deputy Governor Backs Umo Eno A former deputy governor of $NZD ,ERP 6WDWH 0U 3DWULFN Ekpotu, has officially declared his VXSSRUW IRU WKH JRYHUQRUVKLS aspiration of Pastor Umo Eno. Speaking during a consultation visit at his Abuja residence, Engr.

Ekpotu noted that Pastor Eno is a credible and competent aspirant who will raise the stakes in governance and further development.

The elder statesman who served under Godswill Akpabio between WR VWDWHG WKDW JLYHQ

the sterling qualities of Pastor Eno, every well-meaning Akwa Ibom person should support him to succeed.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER MARCH 26, 2022

17

Ferdinand Ekechukwu 08035011394 Email: ferdi_adthisday@yahoo.com

SHOWBIZFLAIR

Romantic Drama, Loving Amanda Set for Virtual Premiere Ferdinand Ekechukwu

L

aju Iren’s Loving Amanda, a romantic screen adaptation of the bestselling novel of the same title by the author and film producer, is the newest addition to an extraordinary line-up of Nollywood movies slated to debut this Easter. The romantic drama Loving Amanda tells the story of a young woman’s journey from brokenness towards love, healing and redemption.

“It’s the same novel that readers all over the world fell in love with, the same story that has kept it on bestseller lists for several weeks running since the book was first published in 2018,” Laju Iren affirmed. The official trailer for the Michael Ama Psalmist Akinrogunde directed movie dropped last week, confirming the readiness of its producers to bring this magic to screen.

The new trailer which debuts ahead of the film’s April virtual premiere teases with the drama and intrigue in the Teniola Aladese led story. The film will, in a bold trailblazing move, present a virtual experience that is second to none. Featuring A-List actors like Blossom Chukwujekwu, Chinonso Arubayi, Adesunmbo Adeoye and many others.

“We’re pioneering a new kind of release with Loving Amanda,” Laju Iren

had earlier stated, ‘one that we truly believe will serve our audience well, and mark a turning point for the industry.” More often than not, when a film comes out, it goes straight to cinemas, television or a streaming platform which viewers can either subscribe to or watch for free.

But for Loving Amanda, the independent film maker is going through a daring route she refers to as a ‘virtual cinema’ experience. The much-awaited feature will be released through a ticketed online system where users from all over the world can pay and watch the film during the Easter Holidays, specifically from Good Friday, April 15th, to Easter Monday, April 18th.

Laju, the bestselling author, turned film maker said: “It’s almost like going to cinemas, the quality is the same, only that this time you can do it from the comfort of your home and watch the film over, and over again throughout the Easter weekend.

This is such a win-win for us, our audience in Nigeria and in the diaspora, as everyone, everywhere can see the film at the same time.

They don’t have to pay a monthly subscription or wait until it is released in a cinema in their own country.”

Teniola Aladese and Blossom Chukwujekwu in a scene

The Voice Nigeria Season 4 Kicks off with aTwist

T

he Voice Nigeria has again added a new twist to the show this season. In the surprise twist, producers of the talent show, just days after closing online registrations, have announced The Voice Train - a physical activation that comprises live auditions of shortlisted talents and funfair activities for their friends, family and fans.

The Voice Train which started on the 22nd of March, 2022 is set to hit 3 cities across Nigeria. The newly added direction

of events on the show is the first of its kind in the show’s history and would run across 3 cities (Abuja, Port Harcourt & Lagos) with its first initial stop at Abuja. The physical audition is an opportunity to meet the talents and shortlist them for the signature blind audition.

Without a doubt, the new turn of events on the show can be said to be one out of many ways by which the international talent show would be delivering its promise on quality and better entertainment this season, as The Voice Train is focused on increasing

excitement and driving interactions with their audience and fans, physically and offline.

The Voice Nigeria season 4 continues to exceed previous seasons with the additional and exciting activities introduced to the show. There is definitely a lot to look forward to this season as promised by the organizers and producers of the show as there is still much exciting and thrilling news to be shared.

The Voice Nigeria Season 4 is a singing competition television series that

employs four coaches who critique artists’ performances and guide their teams of selected artists through the remainder of the season. The popular show is best known for its recognition and unveiling of singing talents, even as Nigerian musical talent continues to gain global recognition and collaborations.

This year’s episodes would be entirely produced by Unity 1 Limited in collaboration with Fame TV while partnering with ITV and YouTube. The Voice Nigeria Season 3, with all its excitement, was produced for the first time in Nigeria by Livespot360 and UN1TY Limited.

Who Wants to Be a Millionaire Returns

L

Edoho

ast Sunday saw the historic premiere of the first episode of Who Wants to Be a Millionaire Series 2: The Rebirth’ after a 5-year hiatus. It was at a private viewing party at the IMAX Cinema, Lekki, Lagos, giving guests a cinematic feel and view, making the event truly unforgettable.

In an event pumped full of glitz and glamour, and which had in attendance Kiki Omeili, Bolanle Olukanmi, Moet Abebe, Big Brother season 3 housemate, Alex Unusual, the extraordinaire DJ Sose and a host of many others grace the enormous black carpet, the show met its aim of ensuring that the 300 carefully selected guests experience the ‘hot seat’ and enjoyed a cinematic view making the event truly unforgettable.

Shimmering in brand new set

designs and decor initially specified in the United Kingdom, designed in South Africa and fully made in Nigeria with the help of South African technical partners, the signature of the rebirth show is a masterpiece to view and a work of art to reckon with.

Speaking on the successful launch of the show, the CEO of show producers, Blk Hut, Hakeem Condotti, said, “What can I say? I’m happy, grateful and excited to be part of a historic success of the airing of this first episode of the series. Frank is a stupendous host and the positive feedback from Nigerians makes all the sacrifices worth the wait”.

‘Who Wants To Be A Millionaire’ Series 2 — The Rebirth is hosted by seasoned, charismatic and inimitable broadcaster, Frank Edoho, and is produced under licence from Sony Pictures Television with a new staggering prize money of N20,000,000.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER MARCH 26, 2022

SHOWBIZFLAIR

Onakpoya Dazzles at Debut Album Launch Ferdinand Ekechukwu

A

fter years of grooming people, composing songs and helping people live their dreams in the Nigerian gospel music scene, gospel music star, Glory Onakpoya has finally released his debut album titled, “Awesome Wonder”. The talk of the town album launch which took place recently at Vabtage Studio and Event Centre located in the Fadeyi axis of Lagos Mainland has continued to dominate conversations among music enthusiasts in the gospel music community.

The inspirational album described as a magical work of heavenly-inspired songs took a period of five years of intense work to pull off the historic album. Better known for his originality and unmatched musical skills, Glory Onakpoya is a man of many parts - he’s a gospel music minister, vocal coach, award-winning songwriter and composer of international repute. It’s no surprise that Glory’s album launch attracted who is who in the gospel music scene.

As expected, the album launch kicked off in grace with opening prayers and praise

session. The master of ceremony for the day introduced to the high-flying guests Glory Onakpoya, the host of honour and welcomed other important guests to the high table. Major highlight of the day was the electrifying performance of the celebrant, Glory Onakpoya who performed one of the songs on the album titled Overflow.

To the admiration of the guests, other performances from the Redeemed Christian Church of God, RCCG followed. Top on the list of eminent personalities at the album launch include Dr. Victoria Michaels, Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, (PFN), Alapere Chapter Lagos State delegates, Rev. Henry Uwota, PFN Alapere Secretary, Rev. Dr. Iyke Abbe, Rev. Remedy, biological mother, close friends and families of the host artiste, Glory Onakpoya.

Other highlight were motherly blessings from Glory Onakpoya’s mother and Dr. Victoria Michaels and other anointed ministers of God. The unforgettable day was wrapped up in glory with official album release and photographs.

Onakpoya

WurlD Shares His World in New Album Ferdinand Ekechukwu

Tracks on the album include ‘These Days Love Don’t Change’, ‘Gucci’, ‘Let You Down’, ‘Sad Tonight’, ‘The Way You Love You’, ‘Toxic’, ‘Sweet N Fine’, ‘Blue’, ‘Shine’, ‘Press’, ‘Naked Rain’, ‘Spunk’, ‘Stamina’, ‘Atl to Lagos’, ‘Overthinking’, and ‘No Easy Love’.

ThesingerfeaturesartisteslikeSarz,Dami Oniru, Landstrip Chip, Sho Madjozi, Major LeagueDjz,andLuuDaDeejayintheproject.

WurlD is a wonder with a killer voice and deep songwriting prowess. His music sits at the intersection between African vibes andWesterndelivery.In2012,WurlDcame through with ‘Beyond Our Dreams’, his first single,off‘Evolution’,hisdebutEP.Thevideo forA ‘ live’, the project’s second single, would later be premiered on MTV. He then released ‘ShowYou Off’, anAfrosoul record that featured Walshy Fire of the music group Major Lazer, and Nigerian

I

WurlD

t’s been a fortnight since WurlD, the blue-haired singer, released his highly anticipated body of work titled, “My World With U” and everyone, his fans especially, are happy with the 19-track album which has been shared on all streaming platforms. ‘My World With U’ is the singer’s fifth studio album and his first since he dropped ‘Afrosoul’ in 2020.

The release of the album which he announced via his social media handles, where he connects a lot with his fans has been stirring heartwarming reactions. On this project, WurlD says, “I’m sharing a lot; it’s not the usual conversations,” he tells Apple Music. “I’ve shared a lot more of myself behind the scenes. I’m bringing people into our flaws and my imperfections. I’m sharing my truth.”

producer, Shizzi, an Afrobeats producer. It is believed that WurlD co-wrote ‘Blow My Mind’, Davido’s 2019 hit song featuring Chris Brown.

With the ‘Show You Off’, collaboration, WurlD got his first break in 2015.

Ever since, he’s climbed into African hearts, building from the ground up, growing his artistry and creating a brand that connects to the quintessential Afropolitan mind. Born Sadiq Onifade, the Afro-fusion artiste has had an inspiring journey, moving from the streets of Mushin in Lagos, to the US, from where much of his music has been conceived. “Moving to America for me gave me the opportunity to learn music and I fell in love with songwriting,” WurlD says of his influence.

Thecompletecreativeembraceofthatcrosscultural influence has become his strongest point, with songs such as “Show You Off” and “Contagious”offeringauniqueangletohissound.

Wheel of Luck TV Game Show Winner Emerges Ferdinand Ekechukwu

F

ortune smiled on Prince Adeleke Ogunkomaiya as he emerged winner of the maiden edition of Wheel of Luck TV Game Show launched last Sunday atTerra Kulture, Lagos.

Ogunkomaiya won the star prize of N2 million presented to him by Bi Communications Ltd,producersofthenoveltelevision programme.

AiredliveonLagosTelevision,LTV,theknowledge basetelevisionshowdrewparticipantsfromvarious regions across the country with age consideration from18yearsandabovehavingappliedonlinewww. wheelofluckng.com with just N500 per ticket.

Ogunkomaiya, who had barely N2,000 prior to journeying to the venue of the event, was pretty delighteduponreceivinghiscashprizeashethanked the organisers.The game show which takes participants through quiz sessions where they are tested on their general knowledge about Nigeria’s history and current affairs had about 12 other people that won different prizes like TV sets, fridges, phones, generators, etc. As they advanced on the show they get to spin theWheel of Luck (a wheel with different amounts of money inscribed on it) that gives them the chance to either move on to the next level or win instant cash prizes.

For the television show, ‘Everyone is a Winner’ in

Prince Adeleke Ogunkomaiya with Dr. Aisha Tosan Agberebi

thatit’sjustnotlimitedtoknowledgebasequestions thrown at participants.

Speaking during the cheque presentation to the star prize winner at a press conference held in Lagos last Thursday, the Managing Director of Bi CommunicationsLtd,Dr.AishaTosanAgberebi,well knownfortheirTelevisionSecurityProgramme,Crime

Fighters, stated that “What we try to do really and that’swhythetag‘EveryoneisaWinner’wedidn’tjust limitittoknowledgebaseonIQ,theability.Thereare some people also that are not also quite educated.

We allow them to roll the wheel. And if you roll the wheel where your wheel stops, you get something”.

Agberebi, who is also the Executive Producer of

the show, gave reporters her reasons for creating the show. She explained that the reading culture is fading especially among young people in Nigeria to a shameful extent that people do not have the slightest idea about things happening around them not to talk of their history. It was for this reason that she created Wheel of Luck, which hopefully will encourage Nigerians to seek to know about themselves and their history.

Dr. Agberebi added: “Apart from that, we have generalquestionsthatwerethrownattheaudience.

A woman won a fridge just for answering the questions that were thrown at her. Another won a phone.

Unfortunatelythestudentthatwasexpectedtowin for they would need the money, the student couldn’t answer simple questions. It was as bad as that.”

“I knew growing up, that one of the things we did then, we challenged ourselves, and then we throw questions to ourselves. And we answered these questions, even when you were on the playground.

You know you could just throw a question at your friend and said ‘who is this?’ And then the person answers. Perhaps I think the introduction of social media or because all of us are extremely over busy chasing money. We seem to forget the very basic necessity of being a Nigerian.”

Shefurthernotedthattheessenceofthetelevision game show competition is to close the knowlwdgegapamongNigerians. “Wehaverealizedthatalotof us; not just children, including me that we are totally doing away with quiz competition.”

19

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER MARCH 26, 2022

FAIRGROUND with

AZUKA OGUJIUBA

azuka.ogujiuba@thisdaylive.com

Arts and Royalty at Nike Art Gallery

O

n Sunday the 17th of February 2022, his Royal Majesty, Ogiame Olu Atuwatse III, the Olu of Warri and Olori Atuwatse III, visited the prestigious Nike Art

Gallery in Lagos.

7KH :DUUL PRQDUFKV DUULYHG WR D EHÀWWLQJ and welcoming serenade delivered with the Sakara drums by a royal dance group, all perfectly setting the tone for a truly colourful visit.

Speaking at the Art gallery, the husband of Mrs. Nike Davis Okundaye (Reuben Okundaye), who is the Managing Director/ CEO of Nike Art Gallery received the king with prayers, encouraging him to keep up the good work he has begun in Warri kingdom and in Nigeria as a whole.

Chief Okundaye further expressed his FRQÀGHQFH LQ WKH NLQJ V DQWHFHGHQWV IRU D long and successful reign.

Mrs. Nike Okundaye then led Ogiame Olu Atuwatse III and Olori Atuwatse III on a tour of the gallery, passionately describing WKH XQLTXH VLJQLÀFDQFH RI WKH JDOOHU\ V ancient and contemporary art pieces, while thanking the king and his wife for their continued support for the arts.

Established in 1983, the Nike Art Gallery is highly regarded for its elegant and GLYHUVH GLVSOD\ RI VRPH RI $IULFD V JUHDWHVW works of art.

L-R: Mama Nike; HRH Olori Atuwatse III; Olu of Warri kingdom, HRM Ogiame Atuwatse III; and Chief. Reuben Okundaye

Photos : Sunday Adigun

Mama Nike; HRH Olori Atuwatse III and some tourists from California

L-R: Luqman Haruna; Abiola Adelana; and Princess Adebola Raji

The Olu of Warri, HRM Ogiame Atuwatse III and his wife HRH Olori Atuwatse III

L-R: Stephanie Utake; Esther Longe; and Omowunmi Etiko

HRH Olori Atuwatse III chatting with designer Dye lab at the gallery

Prince Benson Onuwaje; and a guest

L-R: Mama Nike; HRH Olori Atuwatse III; and Aina Davies Bakare

L-R: Olatunde Etiko; and Oti Longe

20

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER MARCH 26, 2022

TRAVEL

Wonder of the Seas

Murray-Bruce: We Want to Get Africans Back on the Cruise Ben Murray-Bruce is updating his record of accomplishments in entertainment business by offering African families an alternative to pleasure and relaxation through sea voyage starting with the world’s most sophisticated cruise shipWonder of the Seas. He explains how. Excerpts by Nduka Nwosu

O

n July 24th, the world’s biggest and most expensive Oasis class cruise ship, Wonder of the Seas which carries a maximum of 6988 passengers, will be on a seven-day sail from the coast of Barcelona in Spain across three countries within six cities in Europe, and back to Barcelona July 31st.

Whentheshipsetssail,thereistheexpectationof a strong African presence in particular Nigerians.

ThisiscourtesyofSilverbirdEntertainmentGroup, the Democratic Republic of Congo/Rwanda based TheXperts and Royal Caribbean Nigeria.

Why are these three business partners embarking on this modern expedition of rediscovery?

Murray-Bruce who is the chief lead, is willing to go into memory lane and tell you why he has something new to offer. His ultimate objective is to get Africans back to the big ship and then the party begins. He has done it with musicals, video films on NTA, bringing back the cinema culture for families, couples, and people, who leave their homes to relax and watch movies on the big screen whether in Accra Ghana, or Abuja, Lagos, and Port Harcourt.

May be when the Wonder of the Seas berths in Apapa Quays, the Most Beautiful Girl in Africa (MBGA)beautypageantsupportingtheMissWorld Beauty pageant along with the Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria (MBGN) beauty pageant and the more than the 30 Nigerian musicians who performed on his 60th birthday, will actualise the dream of bringing Africa back to the big ship cruise. “It’s gonna be mad ooo,” croons a Nigerian advertorial.

Murray-Bruce says he has three other projects in his bag and would unfold them at the appropriate time.

Of course, from inception in 1980 when he

Murray-Bruce

launched the Silverbird Entertainment Company that brought foreign artistes to Nigeria, MurrayBruce has remained a recurring decimal with class and panache in the entertainment business even as a Distinguished Senator of the Fourth Republic.

A chip off the old block, Ben as his friends call him, can recall his father Papa William Mully MurrayBruce travelled to London in 1953 in a business class, the Elder Dempster Lines passenger ship fitted with what could have passed for a cruise ship, at the time. Both Papa and his wife paid £101 (one hundred and one pounds) each to sail on the Elder Dempster business class section. Senator Bruce still has the ticket of that voyage to support his argument.

If they were doing the same trip in 2022 with the Wonder of the Seas, and in a First-Class Balcony Cabin,thecouplewouldbepaying$2235eachwhile

papa as a single guest would have paid $4,215. It was a two-week smooth sail in 1953 attracting a minimum cost of £101 whereas the Wonder of the Seas leaves the port of Barcelona for one week and back with a higher ticket incentive. Life has changed many times over since the couple made that trip, yet a sea cruise is one dream those who go for it are ready to save for years to have the experience.

In 1974, papa and mama sailed to London in a similar fashion and that was it. No one could say if what they paid as a couple had gone beyond £101. However, if papa had travelled in this world’s most sophisticated ship as a single guest in a cabin in 2022, he would have paid $3545 facing the Central Park Balcony where the panorama of New York’s famous Central Park is replicated, whereas if he were travelling with mama, they would each be paying $1900 for persons sharing a cabin. A family of three would have been classified as triple passengers or quad with a fourth person, all attracting defined occupancy rates in that category and checked in facing the Central Park or the balcony; subject to availability and timeliness.

The emphasis on family is explained by Ben: “If you have never been on a cruise, you are the one I am talking to, it is an experience. Africans how do we relax? We do not; we work until we die whether as Africans or Nigerians. We do not have any kind of pleasure; we do not spend time with the kids; we do not spend time with our loved ones. I am saying seven days in an entire year, in 365 days, take some time off and spend quality time with your family and a cruise ship has every facility on planet earth.

It is like you have concerts on steroids. You have entertainment for children; it is out of this world.

You have a combination of everything you can

imagine, water park, theme park, the best food, the best drinks; there are doctors and a clinic, everything you can imagine.

“You are close to the port; you are going around theoceanstoppingatdifferentportsandcountries every day. The takeoff date is July 24 in Barcelona; it is for the world. However, the next one would be solely African in the sense that all the entertainment in the ship would be solely African music.

This one would be a mix.”

According to him, if you come early, it will be possible to process your visa and buy tickets before the rate goes up. “We will help you to process your Schengen visa. We will help you with the airline tickets to get to Barcelona. We are going to release the programme very quickly.

You will come in there, catch your flight and from the airport you are driven to the seaport. From there you get into the Wonder of the Seas and sail from Barcelona and back to Barcelona. It will be seamless with no stress on your part.

“You cannot apply one week before the cruise because it would be stressful. If you need to be assisted with a visa you have to apply right now.

“Cruises are all over the world. The one I sailed on was from Los Angeles to Mexico. I sailed with my mum and some of my siblings from Los Angeles to Mexico and back. Yes, there are cruises everywhere but, this one is special. It is the most expensive and the most luxurious cruise ever. I am not placing a target on numbers for now. I am looking at the experience. “ Murray-Bruce says he wants people to come back and tell their story. That, he believes, is more important, then next year he will put together a different kind of cruise. “We will brand it differently every time we do it but do not forget the objective, to get Africans back to the big ship.”

TheMexicanRivieraCruise,onNorwegianCruise Line, gives you an idea of what the Wonder of the Seas is all about. It was then described as a Seven Star hotel on the high sea with restaurants, swimming pools and cinemas to catch your ideal screen plays, with four stops in four ports including Cabo San Lucas, shopping for souvenirs.

It was quite fascinating staying in a sea that long and the night added to the hypnotic hold on nature with the heavens providing electricity which descended on the waters like a thousand lit fluorescent bulbs. The beaches with their pearls offered a tourist delight. The island has an array of good seafoods and outdoor activities-surfing, snorkeling, scuba diving plus the beauty of the coast resorts.

The cruise ship of the century also has an Oceanview compartment depicting a panorama that exposes occupants to the beauty of the sea cruise ($3005 for single guests in a cabin and $1635 for a person sharing a cabin) whereas the interior cabins hide guests from any of these views again with $2605 for a single cabin and $1435 for sharing.

The next one, adds Ben, will be an all-African cruise but “we will not be sailing from Nigeria until we have a critical mass in terms of patronage or participation. This ship cost a few billion dollars to build. We are not going to bring a multibilliondollar ship here and you cannot guarantee three to five thousand passengers,” Murray-Bruce explains, adding, “you are not going to bring the most expensive ship in the world, and you cannot guarantee a deal whose economics makes sense.

So, we are conducting a test from the Barcelona cruise to get as many Africans as possible.” For now, TBI Cruises and Tours is selling tickets for the current cruise whose take off point is Barcelona.

According to Ben, 1974 was the last time Elder Dempster sailed from London, England to Banjul in Gambia and Accra in Ghana. From that date till now there have been no cruise ships in West Africa and Africa, except some few but small built cruise ships in South Africa. Therefore, he says, “I came up with an idea on how about getting Africans back on a cruise? How about planning a holidayonabeautifulandamazingcruiseshipfrom Apapa to London? How about bringing that back and I said to bring that back I must do something historic. I must get people back on cruise ships.

The cruise ships will not come to Africa because there is no demand but if I can get Africans to go on a cruise whether it is a Mediterranean or Caribbean cruise, a South American cruise, or a cruise from Los Angeles to Mexico; that means we are getting Nigerians and Africans back on a cruise. Then I can get the cruise ships to come back here.”

Ben waxes lyrical with a poser to all fathers and parents: “How many fathers can say I have spent more than two hours with the children. This cruise is important for promoting family values of a mother and a child, a father and a child. Take time off, spend time with your children, spend time with your daughters and sons.

21

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER MARCH 26, 2022

PERSPECTIVE Why All Patriots Must Join FG’s Effort to End Oil Theft Ifeanyi Onuba

T

o say that crude oil theft is having a negative impact on the Nigerian economywouldbestatingtheobvious. Crude oil theft in the oil rich delta region of Nigeria is one that has got everyone worried about the economic sabotage being perpetrated by unpatriotic machineries who illegally appropriate both crude and refined oil products from the oil facilities.

It is a cartel of anti-state forces who are hell bent on sabotaging economic interest. Beyond draining the already lean public vault, it is denying the nation of the needed resources to finance government programmes.

The criminal act is facilitated by unscrupulous elements from security forces, militia organizations, local indigenes and experienced employees of the multinational oil corporations who use a variety of methods to manipulate, loot and destroy the nation’s economic potentials.

The diversion of crude is a chain of business for many people. From the point of exploration where thousands of the product is cornered to unknown destinations, to multiple receipting of unimported number of refined petrol by some marketers, to diversion of the subsidized petrol to neighbouring countries for high profiteering, oil racketeering thrives for the cartel when Nigerians and Nigeria are left to languish in penury and want at the expense of unpatriotic elements within the system.

In addition to stealing oil from the pipelines, oil theft also occurs during the transportation of the crude oil product to the oil terminals for export. According to reports, Nigeria lost billions of dollars to crude oil theft or about 10 per cent of its foreign reserves in 2021.

This development is worrisome as it is denying the country the much-needed funding to boost economic development.

Just recently, the Chairman of Heirs Oil and Gas, Tony Elumelu gave credence to this when he said that between January and September 2021, Nigeria lost about $4bn to crude oil theft alone.

This amount, when converted based on the N416.25 official exchange rate of the Central Bank of Nigeria translates to about N1.66trn Elumelu while speaking on the impact of crude oil theft had said, “Theft in the Niger Delta is a national menace. We (Heirs) will produce crude oil and the thieves will steal like 50,000 barrels per day.

“In my opinion, it is one of the most lethal threats to our country because there is so much money in the hands of people who don’t pay taxes and people you don’t regulate. The country is not safe.”

Apart from revenue loss, the issue of oil theft is currentlythreateningnotonlytheNigerianNational Oil Company Ltd’s quest for energy security for the country, it is also having a debilitating effect on Nigeria’s revenue earnings.

The record loss of revenue to oil theft is mind bugling. A 2019 report by the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative said that Nigeria lost about $42bn to crude theft, as well as domestic and refined petroleum products losses from 2009 and 2018.

According to the NEITI Report, the losses include about $38.5bn on crude theft, $1.6bn on domestic crude, and another $1.8bn on refined petroleum products.

Similarly, in a Report released on Thursday during a meeting on crude oil theft between the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission and Oil Producers Trade Section, as well as the Independent Petroleum Producers Group, showed that between January 2021 and February 2022, Nigeria lost a whopping sum of $3.2bn to crude oil theft.

The amount when converted by the official N416.25 to a dollar exchange rate translates to about N1.36trn.

The Commission in the Report revealed that oil theft rose significantly between 2021 and 2022, with over 90 per cent of total crude produced at the Bonny Terminal stolen in January 2022.

Kyari

NUPRC said that based on its findings, average monthly value loss for the period is about $233.99m, while the average daily value loss for the period is about $7.72m.

According to the Report, losses are recorded mainly from Bonny Terminal Network, Forcados Terminal Network (and) Brass Terminal Network.

Given that almost 95 percent of total exports revenue come from the petroleum products revenue in Nigeria, the federal governmentisworriedthatifleftunchecked, the huge losses could have a devastating impact on the economy.

Despite being Africa’s largest crude oil producer, Nigeria has recently been

struggling to meet the quota set for it by the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries.

According to OPEC figures, Nigeria’s crude oil production declined to an average of 1.417 million barrels per day in February 2022. This figure is about 463, 000 barrels per day lower than the 1.88 million barrels per day approved by the Federal Government in the 2022 budget.

While crude oil price is currently hovering around $139 per barrel as a result of the supply shortage inducedbytheRussia-Ukrainewar,thelossesbeing suffered from oil theft is making it difficult for Nigeria to take advantage of the surge in global crude oil price.

In a bid to arrest the ugly situation, the Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National

In a bid to arrest the ugly situation, the Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Ltd, Mr Mele Kyari, like a commander leading his troop to war, stormed the forests and creeks in the Niger 'HOWD WR JHW ÀUVW KDQG LQIRUPDWLRQ on cases of oil bunkering DQG LOOHJDO UHÀQHULHV

Petroleum Company Ltd, Mr Mele Kyari, like a ccommander leading his troop to war, stormed tthe forests and creeks in the Niger Delta to get first-hand information on cases of oil bunkering fi aand illegal refineries.

Alongside the Minister of State for Petroleum, Mr Timipre Silva, and Chief of Defence Staff, General T Lucky Irabor, Kyari conducted on the spot assessment on the losses being suffered by the country m tthrough oil theft.

The tour of the Niger Delta creeks which is based onadirectivefromPresidentMuhammaduBuhariis o partofawholisticstrategytodeepenoilproduction p iin the country and effectively end illegal oil mining aand associated threats in the sector.

Given that the factors that aided crude oil theft iinclude inadequate security, poor community engagement, economic challenges, poor surveillance, g sstakeholder compromises and exposed facilities, tthe team which was joined by the Operation Delta Safe Joint Task Force went into the forest to see S many siteswhereillegalrefinerieswerebeingdone. m Instantly, the security forces begun shutting down many sites based on the Presidential directive. m The drive to end losses in the sector is informed by T tthe government’s drive to ramp up production and boost foreign earnings for the country especially b nnow that the Russian-Ukraine war has exposed tthe sector to high level of volatility.

It was in a bid to arrest the losses starring the ccountry that Kyari designed new operational sstrategy involving multi-sectoral agencies, to play critical role. p Arm with the zeal to tackle the menace, the team sstepped into the thick forest of Ibaa in Emeoha Local Government, where a serious message was ssent to oil thieves that their days in the illegal trade aare numbered.

Based on estimates gathered at the site, Nigeria loses about 1,500 barrels per day at Ibaa alone.

In Rivers State alone, there are many of such illegal refineries, costing the country huge revenue earnings. e While urging oil thieves to stop their illegal activitties, Kyari warned that the full wrath of the law will be brought against them if they continue. b The warning from the GMD is instructive as it points to the fact that the country cannot continue to suffer such huge losses amid needs to carry out infrastructuraldevelopmentbythisadministration.

Done with the tour of Ibaa, the NNPC GMD moved to the 146 Battalion, Finima, Bonny Island where he urged the men of the Nigerian Naval force to step up their game to quickly bring oil theft to an end.

Kyari also tasked the task force to ensure that there is zero tolerance for illegal activities across the oil and gas sector.

At the Gogokiri site which is said to be the biggest bunkering in Bayelsa, the team did not only shut down the facility, it ensured that the connection point and storage facility at Igbalele in Bayelsa was destroyed saving huge barrel for the country.

Kyari also ensured the destruction of Okarki where oil thieves had laid pipeline and tapped oil from a community in Abua community bordering Rivers State.

In another community in Rivers State called Ogoda, it was reported that brass pipeline was blasted to enable the vandals syphon crude but this has been quickly replaced by the government to ramp up production.

The GMD who was undeterred with various reports he gathered about the activities of oil thieves, stated emphatically that the bid to put an end to their activities will be relentless until the country get rid of them He expressed optimism that the strategy being adopted will finally arrest the situation.

The GMD underscores the work of the security team, and commended them in the effort to stop those denying the country the much-needed resources.

It is believed that the multi-sectoral approach involving various agencies and community leaders and the encouragement of the operatives of the task force would finally bring to end the theft of crude oil.

Onuba, a Chartered Accountant wrote from Abuja.

22

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER MARCH 26, 2022

PEOPLE Oyin Adeyemi: The Grind Beneath The Glitter Oyindamola Lami Adeyemi, the founder and Group Managing Director of Still Earth Group, and chairperson ofTirex Petroleum and Energy, had an epiphany about her future quite early in life with the realisation that she could not bear to serve another man for too long or play underling to any man or woman. Ms. Adeyemi who is also the founder of Still Earth Capital Partners Limited, conceived her dreams almost as the exact equivalent of the great Gothic cathedrals, the supreme creation of an era, conceived with passion by unknown artists, writes Lanre Alfred

L

ikeanxiousteenagerswaitingfortheir barmitzvah,manyNigerians,nearand far-flung, are eager to know who Oyindamola Adeyemi is. This palpable and pervasive anxiety is expected becauseoftheself-effacingandselfdeprecatingnatureofthischeerfuland relentless giver. Unlike many of her peers, her rise to eminence was as much a product of unrelenting will and her astounding ability to pirouette herself from obscurity to entrepreneurial acclaim by the bootstraps.Asfarasbusinessideasandinnovations areconcerned,Adeyemiturnsnothingdown,except the collar of her shirt. From construction to oil and gas, real estate and finance, het imprimatur stares you boldly in the face.

Yes, Oyindamola deftly maneuvered through the labyrinthofdisappointmentsanddespaircharacteristic of this period in a man’s life; more astonishingly, she survived it.

With visages of failure constantly flashing at her through her rear view, she navigated through the folds and challenges of enterprise with unusual tact and wisdom.

Through her journey, mirth and hopefulness, were neverabsentfromherheartandherface.Somepeople, oneimagines,maybenaturallydauntlessandbuoyant ofheart,butwithher,goodspiritsalwaysseemed,far moreadmirably,tobetheproductofastrictprogram ofself-improvementinheryouth--shebelieved,like most truly modest women, in the absolute virtue of self-improvement--whichhadwroughtdeep,essential changes in a nature inclined by birth to the darker view and gloominess that cropped up elsewhere in the manhood circuit.

Oyindamola Adeyemi understands that her possessionofentrepreneurialsuccessisadivineaward gifted to glorify her work as a top business woman; she also understands that she must commit her enterprise and hard earned resources with noble intent, to the alleviation of the agony and sweat of thehumanspirit,notforself-glorificationandleastof allforprofit,buttocreateoutofthematerialsofthe human spirit something which did not exist before: love, peace, compassion and hope in the hearts of the underprivileged and impoverished.

Thus she committed to find a dedication for her money,devotingittocommensurateneedswiththe purpose and significance of its origin. She laboured through commerce’s brutish straits, burnishing her spunk with ethical realism; eventually, she emerged asoneofthekeenestjuggernautsinthedownstream oil sector and the most perceptive visionary.

Indeed,hermarchtogrowherenterprise,shegottoo busy to engage in sloth. Naturally, she attracted the besttoherself.Shehadnoroomforfailure.Shesought to actualise her Nigerian dream through daunting odds. As she adds another year to her enchanting life on March 19, the pert, blue flame of joy burns throughherprettyframe;brighteningherworldand burnishingherpersonawithirrepressibleshine.Oyinis besideherselfwithjoyforbeingprivilegedtowitness yet another glorious addition to her inspiring days.

Beautifulinanexotic,utterlyunderstatedway,Oyin exudes vigor, drama, fortitude, and happiness.Very earlyinlife,sheattainedentrepreneurialacclaimfor herinspiringexploitsinthebusinessworld—youcould beforgivenforimaginingthatshewasshepherdedby asavvy,tirelessinnatealteregotogettohercurrent height.

Forthepastdecadeandmore,shehasworkedhardto attainhercurrentstatusand,therefore,isfarremoved from the contemporary alpha female stereotype that glorifies flamboyance, self-aggrandizement and narcissism above substance. Importantly, Oyin isacutelyawarethatsheorbitsauniversethathasnot alwaysmadespaceforwomenand,thus,hasfearlessly taken up a conspicuous space for herself. Now, the powerandpullofherentrepreneurialattainmentsare makingspaceforanewgenerationofyoungwomen whoarewillingtointerrogatetheirfearsandachieve greatness. And it is not hard to see why.

Inanerawhenboththemainstreamandnewmedia

Adeyemi

Oyindamola Adeyemi understands that her possession of entrepreneurial success is a divine award gifted to glorify her work as a top business woman; she also understands that she must commit her enterprise and hard earned resources with noble intent, to the alleviation of the agony and sweat of the human spirit, not for self-glorification and least of all for profit commit the systemic looting of accolades, heapingitonundeservingsocialsymbolsand demagogues,Oyindamolaattractsrecognition by dint of her good works.

It is, therefore, understandable that the media would focus on her while shunning its tendencytoembraceandpromotenuanced, complex,midwiferypropertiesformenaceand subjugation.Hercool,humbledemeanoreven whilesheperformsgreatfeatsthatcouldmake anymoney-bagswoonwithpride,continually endearshertoglobalmedia,civilsocietiesand non-governmentalorganisations(NGOs)that are often beneficiaries of her philanthropy.

Inthedinofinterminableacclaimanddeafeningapplausethatwelcomesherarrivaltothe metropolitanoasisofhighsocietycourtesyher sterlingachievementsinthebusinessworld, she will not rest on her oars. Her unflagging spiritcontinuallyspurshertoseekandattain landmarkfeatsinbusinessandevenoutside the business sector.

Unlike many a businessman who would ratherexpendhishard-earnedmoneyonguilty pleasures,Oyindamoladevoteshertimeand

money to the betterment of lives, particularly that of poor,disadvantagedfolk.Sodoing,sheestablishesand perpetuatesararecultureofphilanthropythatpleases andastoundsmanyarecipientofherhumanitarianism even as you read.

Shewasneverbroughtuptosavourblusterbyfinding pleasure in what is so commonly condemned neither wasshegiventopessimismatanearlyage.Shechooses only to see the sunny spokes behind the darkest pall.

No doubt, it has been a concatenation of successes for Still Earth, a factor she hinged on the company’s passiontoachievesetgoalsandobjectives.Inthepast decade, the company’s clientele base has become an eloquent testimony of how prolific and professional it has been. Still Earth has a portfolio of completed projectsandsatisfiedclientsthatareinboththepublic andprivatesectorsandmanyhighnet-worthindividuals amongst others.

According to her, the successes recorded so far boil down to the team and the corporate values and culture that are upheld at Still Earth Limited. Also, she added, “We have in place a board of directors comprising veterans who are passionate about Still EarthLimited.Theyalwaysbringtheirexperienceand expertise to bear. Our management team is peopled

bytechnocratswhoseprofessionalismcancompete with global standards. I think I have been lucky with havingtherightpeoplewithmealltheway.Ourclients have also been a part of our huge success. Most of thestategovernorsweworkwithawarduscontracts basedontheirdeterminationtoimprovethewelfare of the people in the state and also to improve their standards of living.”

Oyindamolaridesthestorms,bolsteredbyatenacious spirit and mulish resolve to excel and arrive with her dreams intact, on pliant coasts.Today, that unyieldingspiritofthisbeautifulwomanhaspaidoff.It hasseenherthroughtheteethingandofttumultuous stagesofthecut-throatworldofglobalcommercetill sheemergedunhurtandstrongerinspiritandresolve like a champ.

A patriotic yet realistic believer in Nigeria and her people and potentials, Oyin could just as well sit back and be satisfied with her multi-billion naira construction company but her matchless, can-do spirithasseenhercontinuallyideatingandinnovating.

She has recently diversified into the finance sector withtheestablishmentofStillEarthCapitalFinance, amulti-facetedfinancialservicescompanyoffering tailoredfinancialservicesandsolutionstoindividuals, companies and the public sector.

TheVictoria-Island,Lagos-basedcompanyprovides a diversified range of financial services including Consumer Finance, Commercial and SME Finance, CorporateFinanceandFinancialAdvisoryandWealth Management Services. Its mission statement is to provideoutstandingservicestoitsclientsthroughthe useoftechnologyandleverageitsprincipalofficers’ significant experience and track record covering investment banking, commercial banking, project and infrastructure finance, business strategy and transformation in meeting its wide range of clients’ needs.

One major area that Still Earth has also thrived in is its workforce. Oyin has marshaled her team well by activating and directing the positive energy of her people to achieve excellent results. She has continuedtoinvestinqualifiedtalentsandthusleads aworkforceoftrainedandtestedindividualshelping to achieve her different companies’ objectives, one of which is, “To work together as a team to achieve successoneveryprojectforourclients,throughthe professionalism, diligence and hard work that we profess and promote.”

Asayoungadult,Adeyemisubscribedtothebelief that a man’s reach should always exceed his grasp.

She believes in reaching for the moon, knowing that if her grasp misses its cusp; her hands may land on the stars. Starting as an entrepreneur, she strove to make things work. Fortunately, things began to look up for her and she became a reference point in her chosen career.

However, her ascent the steep slope of entrepreneurialsuccessandacclaimdidn’tlayoutinflatmiles.

It was replete with rigours and daunting challenges.

ButOyindamolatoweredabovealloddstobecome a successful magnate with vested interests in the global oil and real estate sectors.

Hersuccessisattributabletohard,valuablelessons that she learnt very early in life. As a teen, Adeyemi gleanedpricelesspearlsofwisdomfromherparents.

Among other things, she learnt that there was no wisdominwaitingtoseeastersbloomonbarrenland.

She understood that foresight in moving out of her comfort zone in search of greener pasture. Guided by the priceless wisdom of the aged, she left home to seek her fortune elsewhere - she knew perfectly well that only an oyster remains forever at the old homestead.

Born to a Yoruba father from Owo, Ondo State and a Hausa/Fulani mum from Gombe State, a racial diversity that has proved advantageous in an ethnocentric society as Nigeria’s, Oyin possesses a Bachelor’s in Political Science and a Master’s in Political Economy and Governance.

As she adds a year on March 19, there is no doubt that she has so much to thank God for and leap and spin in excitement and exultation.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ MARCH 26, 2022

23

POLITY

Ekweremadu, Soludo and Economic Growth of S’East Chidi Ibudialo

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he insight and experience of others is a valuable source of inspiration and motivation; learning from successful leaders and entrepreneurs is a frantic way to grow. The South Eastern part of Nigeria, have experienced ups and downs in its journey as a nation, as a people and as participants in the black race history. Just like we all know that life throws curveballs to progress and while there might be blockers to success and growth, it is imperatives to keep pushing with knowledge.

Mistakes will definitely be made and failures are inevitable, however, persistence is the only character that guarantees success. The South Eastern part of Nigeria is today in search of men with strong leadership qualities; men with passion and love for the people and such leaders that are endowed with strong character to pursue and achieve economic growth that is needed to harness the potentials in the region and upon such achievements, they will establish very strong institutions that will be enduring for generations to come.

Dr. M.I Okpara (of blessed memory) was one of the greatest political leaders and the premier of Eastern Nigeria from 1959 to 1966 (then, he was the nation’s youngest premier). Along with Jaja Wachukwu, he organised the New African Party with a view to joining the NCNC (because as at that time, one could only join the NCNC from the platform of another organisation or through a divisional union). After internal self-rule was granted in 1952, he was elected into the Eastern Nigeria house of Assembly on the NCNC platform.

He was a minster without a portfolio in the first government headed by Prof. Eyo Ita between 1952-1953, a position which made it possible for him to carry on his medical practice unfettered by a heavy load of ministerial chores. From there, he became the minister of health for Eastern Nigeria in 1954. Three years later he headed the ministry of production, of which the Eastern Nigeria Development Corporation (i.e Corporation which oversaw Agriculture, Industries, produce inspection, and other such duties) was a part. Okpara became the leader of NCNC and the Premier of Easten Nigeria during the first Republic (1959-1966).

Okpara’s records were most remarkable in the Ministries of Agriculture, Health and Industries. As the Head of ministry of Agriculture his reforms led to a considerable reduction in the cost of food. He was a strong advocate of what he termed “Pragmatic Socialism”. Okpara established farm settlements were young men and women were trained to become modern famers. This led to establishment of farm estates such as Colaro and Qua falls Estate in Cross River.

He played major role in the Industrialisation of Enugu (The then Eastern Nigerian Government Seat) Port Harcourt (Oil City – Trans-Amadi Industrial Estate), Calabar, Abia and Umuahia. The large expanse of Cashew and palm tree plantations in Okigwe, Akama- Oghe, Ubima, Egbema respectively, were all achieved through his initiative and supervision. He also championed the Educational and Infrastructural development of Eastern Nigeria.After the above agricultural, Economic, Industrialsation and educational heights by M.I Okpara, Eastern Nigeria has been bereaved of very sound leaders with zeal and passion to serve the people.

The states slumped into unpopular zoning of political offices as criteria for election rather than qualification and experience. A good scholar of the above achievement

Ekweremadu

From the above super manifesto of Ekweremadu, I want to analyse just a few of them, the expected impact on the GDP of Enugu State and the multiplier effect; then liken it to that of Soludo and M.I Okpara.Those special cities proposal will have massive impact on job creation and as well create a positive multiplier on the development of Enugu State.The Agricultural city has the same design as the one of M.I Okpara which led to massive economic growth in the then Eastern Nigeria with its impact on price drop and growth in product exportation which will create foreign exchange and stability of the Naira of M.I Okpara will understudy and understand how he grew through the ranks before he was elected as the Premier of then Eastern Nigeria. All the states in South East are yearning for such leaders like M.I Okpara. And the quest has led to this write up to review the candidacy of Professor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, (Governor of Anambra State) and Professor Ike Ekweremadu (Gover-

norship aspirant of Enugu State 2023).

The biggest essence of leadership is that we need to have vision, we can’t blow an uncertain trumpet without a correspondent practical work, hence leadership and learning are indispensable, collaborative and competitive. It equally is worthy of note that good objective of leadership lies in the ability to work together for greater result (we need each other). Professor Charles Soludo is a renowned Economist from University of Nigeria Nsukka from where he was appointed as The Economic Adviser to the then President Olusegun Obasanjo.

After a while, President Obasanjo appointed him as CBN Governor, where he executed one of the most resounding banking sector reforms in Nigeria which then saw Nigerian banks suddenly become global financial players with super Managing Directors. The reforms saw the exit of fear and uncertainty in the Nigerian banking system. Several years after the reforms, he contested for the governorship seat of Anambra State which he won on the platform of APGA. I took time and read his manifesto during the election but the one that interests me most was his recent statement on his agenda for Anambra state.

The governor said to the electorates that his agenda in his first four years is to create employment, employment and employments. Prof. Soludo understood clearly the multiplier effect of job creation in Anambra. Let us take a closer look at what impact the above agenda will have on the state. Job creation or employment is one of the fastest way to deal with the following: insecurity; consumption;- which will lead to growth in production and when production grows, prices of goods and services will drop, further increase in production will lead to growth in export and when export grows, import or quest for imported goods will drop which will then lead to conservation of our foreign exchange.

The employment as well will lead to increase in saving (as workers can then save part of their salaries) and same savings are usually equal to investment, the people can then convert their savings into investments/ production in the medium to long term. Further growth in production will naturally lead to economic expansion and growth in the GDP frontier (Very wonderful strategy). All the above can create Industrialisation, secured state, and massive growth. It is equally pertinent to note that when insecurity is reduced to its barest minimum, the state will largely experience a massive boost in foreign Direct invest as most foreigners or even Nigerians will then see Anambra State as safe haven for investment and production No Investors goes to where his investment or funds will be put at risk. I have equally taken time to study Ike Ekweremadu in terms of his experience and growth trajectory coupled with his manifestos which he read out during his declaration to run for the governorship of Enugu State come 2023.Ike Ekweremadu was a trained lawyer from University of Nigeria Nsukka.

Upon graduation, he practiced law for a while before he joined politics. He was first elected as a local government chairman before he then moved to senate as a law maker. He grew to the rank of Deputy Senate president, a position he occupied for a period of four years. During his reign as Deputy Senate President, we saw so much humility in him and his charisma shined even brighter.

He continued with his academic pursuit and has been awarded as professor in his field.

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US Arts Envoy Thrills Nigerians Funke Olaode

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hrough cultural diplomacy, the United States shares the best of its creative and arts community with Nigerians to celebrate shared values and promote collaboration, bringing the two nations together through music, art, film, and education.

From March 13 to 23, visiting US Arts Envoy and classical pianist, Pauline Yang, played to packed houses, taught emerging and established musicians through masterclasses, and was interviewed by leading national media outlets across Abuja, Lagos, and Ibadan.

Pauline performed American, European, and Mexican piano compositions to over 1,000 guests who enjoyed a world class classical concert at the Chief of Mission Residence in Abuja, Consul General Residence in Lagos, Terra Kulture Arena in Lagos, and at the Manhattan Hall in Ibadan.

Her selection of pieces included a delightful mix of composers, styles, and eras from the piano literature featuring works by Bach, Scarlatti, Mendelssohn, Chopin, Rachmaninoff, Schumann, Liszt, and Bolcom. To begin each

of her concerts, Pauline performed Sicilienne, an original orchestral piece by the famous French composer Gabriel Faure, with Ambassador Mary Beth Leonard on flute.

Pauline gave an impressive performance of Liszt’s Hungarian Rhapsody No. 11, an exciting piece considered quite complex and challenging. Her rendition of the piano piece elicited wide applause from audiences across the three cities.

During one of her media interviews, Pauline explained to students that US universities encourage musicians to double major in a subject outside of music. She described what prospective Nigerian students can expect in terms of curriculum and opportunities for studying music in the United States.

“It has been so wonderful for me to see and feel the warmth of the Nigerian people. I am so lucky to be here in Nigeria on behalf of the U.S. Department of State as an Arts Envoy. My experience has been nothing short of amazing,” Pauline said.

Her cultural diplomacy visit to Nigeria was sponsored by the US Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs with support from the U.S. Mission in Nigeria.

The Public Affairs Sections of the U.S. Mission in Nigeria,

Yang explaining some music issues to Nigerians at the event in Abuja and Lagos, support programmes that bring American cultural leaders to Nigeria to meet, exchange ideas and collaborate with Nigerian cultural leaders. Through these peopleto-people connections, the U.S. Mission hopes to foster a deeper relationship between Nigerians and the United States.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ MARCH 26, 2022

POLITY

Inuwa Aiming to Succeed Masari in 2023

As Secretary to the Katsina State Government for both the first and second terms of Governor Aminu Bello Masari, Dr. Mustapha Inuwa is eminently qualified to be his successor in 2023, writes Francis Sardauna

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oliticking has commenced in Katsina State and many political gladiators in the state have started realigning ahead of the 2023 election.

The beginning of this year has witnessed a higher tempo in the conversations among political elites in the state over who should be the next governor of the historic home state of President Muhammadu Buhari. Thus, new faces aspiring to succeed Masari are popping up day by day. Unarguably, the first to formally notify the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) party in the state of his ambition to vie for the position of the number one citizen of the Home of Heritage and Hospitality is the incumbent Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Mustapha Muhammed Inuwa.

Investigation revealed that Inuwa so far has the backing of at least 18 out of the 34 members of the State House of Assembly and 24 aspiring chairmen with their councillors in the forthcoming April 11, 2022 local government elections, to be the next eligible person to succeed Governor Masari in 2023. The lawmakers and the party’s candidates for the council polls were among the rousing crowd of APC supporters that accompanied the SSG to the state APC headquarters.

While at the party’s secretariat, Inuwa presented an official letter to the Chairman of the party, Sani Aliyu. The letter partly read: “I write this letter to express my intent as gubernatorial aspirant of our great party APC in the forthcoming state governorship election. I have been an active member both at the local government, state and national levels since I joined our great party.

“I was one time the state chairman of the party and subsequently became the Secretary to the State Government for two consecutive tenures of the APC administration in the state. I have been engaged in a number of national assignments.

“I therefore, humbly believe that I have gathered enough administrative and political capabilities to enable me impact positively on the socio-economic development of our state.”

Undoubtedly, the letter of intent sign-tunes the readiness and commitment of the man whom political observers described as the brain behind the success of the Masari-led government Born in 1957 in Danmusa, Inuwa obtained his first school

Inuwa leaving certificate in 1970 at Runka Primary School in Runka, Grade Two Teachers certificate at School for Arabic Studies, Kano in 1977, B. A. (Hons) History in Bayero University, Kano in 1983 as well as M.A (History) from the University of Ibadan in 1987.

The ‘engine-room’ of the Masari’s APC government, who ventured into politics in 1993, was elected as treasurer of the defunct APP and later the interim chairman of the party. In a bid to advance his political career, he dumped the APP and joined the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) where he served as the sole administrator of Danmusa Local Government between 2002 to 2003, and General Manager, Katsina State Transport Authority within the period under review.

He was also appointed commissioner for education under the later Umaru Musa Yar’Adua administration in the state from 2003 to 2006. He was later appointed as the secretary to the state government (SSG) under the same administration where

he served from 2006 to 2007. In view of his quest for a liberal and all-inclusive party that will provide the required leadership to Nigerians, Inuwa decamped from PDP to the APC where he was elected as the state chairman of the party in 2013.

As chairman of the party, Inuwa, worked assiduously with other APC bigwigs and brought in his current principal (Masari) into power in 2015 after dislodging the then ruling PDP that managed the affairs of the state for 16 years. Having won the 2015 governorship polls, Masari appointed Inuwa as SSG. He equally served as the 2019 Chairman of Masari Campaign Council which gave the APC a landmark victory that ushered in Masari as the second term governor of the state with about 1.3 million votes for the first time in the political history of the state. Considering his significant role in the life-changing policies and programmes of the Masari’s government in the first tenure of his administration, the governor re-appointed Inuwa as SSG. As a seasoned and grassroot politician who is not into a ‘do or die politics’, Dr. Inuwa has been warning his teaming supporters and political groups in the forthcoming state governorship election to shun any act capable of disrupting socio-political order in the state.

Despite having over 300 political groups across the 361 political wards of the state that are solemnly behind his candidature, the political emancipator believes that leadership comes from God and He alone can determine the next governor of the state, thus, he insisted that his supporters must embrace peace, shun political thuggery and other forms of crisis, before, during and after the polls.

Accordingly, Inuwa’s message to any political gathering is that “politics is not a do or die game” and whoever God has destined to be governor of the state, he will accept him in good faith hence the need for his supporters to embrace the tenets of political dynamism and root out every factor contributing to the democracy deficit in Nigeria, such as voter apathy, looting, arson, among others.

In his words: “Our supporters must be law-abiding and understand the tenets of democracy. If you support one person you should also appreciate that another person has every right and reason to support another person. So, I urged them to be law-abiding and to conduct whatever they want to do in this regard peacefully without any problem.”

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Alert to Sanwo-Olu On Oshodi Family

Maroof-deen Babatunde Oshodi

We start by commending your exciting efforts sir, in bringing to reality your lofty THEMES agenda. We pray most fervently that your labour shall yield most rewarding dividends that will make generations of future Lagosians continue to remember you for good. Amen.

This our communication focuses on two interelated issues .

The first is with regards to the ownership of Oshodi land. This is really foundational and will help the understanding of what we reckon as the raging, more publicized, second issue. The second, which is an extension of the first, is with regards to who has the right to the stool of the Bale of Oshodi (or Oba of Oshodi, as being currently touted.)

Permit us, your excellency, to recount that Oshodi Town situated within Oshodi/Isolo Local council area belongs to no one other than the Oshodi Tapa Family of Lagos Island. It is not a yesterday’s claim but an established historical fact that has endured more than two centuries or over 200 years. This has also been re-established and reinforced by courts We seek your indulgence sir to refer to a judgement delivered by a Lagos High Court on April 19th, 1960. This was later affirmed first by the Supreme Court of Nigeria on March 5th, 1963, and then again by the Supreme Court after another spurious challenge on July 14, 2000.

In 1960, the presiding judge over a legal challenge to our ownership of the land ruled thus: “I am quite satisfied from the evidence that the Oshodi family have for a considerable period of well over a hundred years been in possession and occupation of the land in dispute and have during this time openly exercised acts of ownership over the land without protest from the plaintiffs. I do not accept the plaintiff’s case that the defendants’ family has been regularly paying tribute on the land in dispute. I believe and accept the defence that they have occupied the land in dispute, including Oshodi Village, without rent or tribute.” (Attached sir) This naturally leads to the question: why did we have to contend with legal challenges to the ownership of the land?

Several centuries ago, our ancestor, Chief Tapa Oshodi was given this land in recognition of his military prowess and assistance to the Onigbesa of Igbesaland during the era of the Slave Trade. The land gift was a gesture of appreciation by the Onigbesa, who was the original owner of this area from time immemorial and it has been our possession since, not as customary tenants but as absolute owners. The Onigbesa gifted the land to Chief Oshodi Tapa without conditions.

We wish to recall with sense of honour sir that Chief Oshodi Tapa, after whom Oshodi Town is named, was a highly

respected chief of the Oba of Lagos and he performed several high level and high risks tasks for the Oba of Lagos, especially in the area of ensuring that security of lives and property was provided across what is now present day Lagos and parts of Ogun State.

From the late 1950s, there had been several attempts by rancorous elements claiming to be related to Onigbesa represented by the Agedegudu family, to violate this agreement. We thank God, who is always with the just, that all such attempts to subvert our inheritance had failed.

Permit us sir to crave your indulgence by referring to a judgement affirmed by the Supreme Court of Nigeria, in the case FSC.413/61between Sunmonu Agedegugu (Plaintiff/ Appellant) and Sanni Ajenifuja and Ors (Defendants/Respondents.)

The learned trial judge proclaims thus: “I have therefore on the evidence before me arrived at the following conclusions: That there was a grant by the Onigbesa family of the land in dispute to the defendants’ family; That I am unable to find as fact where the grant was made by the Onigbesa family of Igbesa or by the plaintiffs, the Onigbesa family from Isolo; That in any event I am satisfied from the evidence that this grant was an absolute grant and that the Oshodi family now hold the land in dispute as absolute owners and not as customary tenants.

This judgement was further validated by the Supreme Court of Nigeria in 2000 when a faction of the Agedegudu family cunningly instituted another lawsuit to overturn the earlier ruling of the Supreme Court. In the case, between Dr. Rasaki Oshodi, Chief G.F.A. Inasa Thomas and Chief Musa Esugbayi (for themselves and on behalf of the Oshodi Family) and Yisa Oseni Eyifumi and Lamina Eniyantan (for themselves and on behalf of the Odujaguda family, otherwise known as Akinowo family), their Lordships Abubakar Wali, Emanuel Obioma Ogwuegbu, Anthony Ikechukwu Iguh, Okay Achike and Akintola Olufemi Ejiwumi unanimously ruled that the land belongs to the Oshodi family.

“In the finding of the court, the grant of the land in dispute to the defendants’ family was an absolute grant and the defendants and their ancestors had occupied the land in dispute for well over one hundred years and exercised acts of possession and ownership over the land without payment of any tributes.”

This brings us to the issue of the rulership of Oshodi, Your Excellency. The Yoruba say “eni to n’ile l’’oni eto si Oba” (the owner of the land is logically the only one entitled to the rightful ownership of the land’s obaship or

kingship and indeed all authorities). It therefore would stand to reason that members of the Oshodi family, being undisputed owners of the land, would be the traditional rulers of the entire Oshodi community in focus. Indeed, that has been the case since the establishment of the community until lately when outsiders and impostors – trying to leverage on political affiliations –started making efforts to usurp and distort time-honoured tradition. It is our sincere belief that your administration, with such an enviable record within a short period, will further dignify fairness and justice.

Kindly permit us to humbly add at this point that all the gazetted Oshodi chiefs are all from the Oshodi family. In fact, all the Bales of oshodi are from our family and the only interloper, installed against reason, was nullified by the court.

In all, there had been nine Baale at Oshodi.

The first was Baale Faremi Taraeni Ajagungbade (18501866) and the last, authentic Baale was Baale Yesufu Seidu Owoseni (1983-2005). Indeed, to ensure clear perfection of the pre-exisiting tradition, Owoseni was made to comply with the full endorsement of the Oshodi Tapa Family. He formally sought and got same before he got the staff of office following his formal installation.

Your Excellency, we understand that there are ongoing efforts to upgrade the stool to one of the Oba Grade 1. We wish to recall that this was informed by our petition seeking to upgrade our chieftaincy title from Bale of Oshodi to Olurogun of Oshodiland. It is our expectation that this, when done, would follow seamlessly on the already established tradition of succession to the throne of the number one citizen of Oshodi-Land. We are not unaware of several strange claims to the throne, including the gambit by Alhaji Musiliu Ayinde Akinsanya to be installed as Oba of Oshodi. We want to publicly distance our family from this campaign.

The judicial process did not fail us in the past and we believe there is sufficient precedence to believe that it will subsist with all possible fervour.

We are confident that the authorities of the Lagos State government - or any subjudicial authority would not take any steps that would cause a breach of law and order in Oshodi and beyond. We hold strongly, your Excellency, that yours is a government that will always be supportive of the sanctity of the rule of law.

– Babatunde Oshodi is the Chairman, Oshodi Tapa CheiRead full article online - www.thisdaylive.com

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ MARCH 26, 2022

25

POLITY

Ugwuanyi: A Man for All Seasons as the Nation Teeters Chiebuka Nwankwo

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here is often a tendency to equate volubility and an overarching media presence with competence.

This false reckoning has been quite apparent in the build-up to next year’s general elections as those deemed to be front-runners pitch their strengths and jockey for attention. But the enormity of the varied challenges that currently confront Nigeria has somewhat dimmed whatever glittering resumes they flaunt, and drawn a less than enthusiastic response from the electorate. It is not that their accomplishments don’t matter; the problem lies in the presumptuousness that tends to curate the choice of presidential contenders in a manner that suggests the options are limited to the familiar names. They are certainly not.

There are indeed a few other politicians who are just as accomplished even if their names might not resonate in the media. Such politicians are not the limelight-hugging type. An example is the Enugu State governor. Unaffectedly selfeffacing, Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi doesn’t seem like one who would have chosen politics as a vocation. But courage doesn’t always roar. Beneath that choir boy’s look lies a steely resolve. It is that gritty spirit, coupled with a forthrightness that totally abhors cant that has helped him navigate the often wily world of politics and earned him a stellar record as a public servant.

Notching impressive IGR consistently in a state that ranks among the least recipients of federal allocation lend themselves to the rather desperate fiscal situation in Nigeria. No less remarkable is how Ugwuanyi has successfully enthroned inclusion in Enugu State. The outcome is seen in the fact that Enugu has continuously earned the enviable acclaim as one of Nigeria’s most peaceful state.

This is quite significant because at the root of the disaffection and resentment nursed over the years by sections of the country is a feeling that they have hardly ever experienced a sense of belonging. Given the mutual distrust that colours every discussion towards securing some political concession or compromise among geo-political zones, it is expedient that Nigeria’s would-be president has to be someone who unifies, not a polarizing figure. The enormous respect that Ugwuanyi is accorded across the partisan divide of politics is unprecedented in Enugu State. This gesture is testament to how equitably he deploys the state’s resources and treats everyone irrespective of creed and political affiliation.

The import of this feat takes on more resonance viewed

Ugwuanyi against the backdrop of Enugu’s historical significance. Enugu’s preeminence is intertwined with Nigeria’s storied history. It served as the capital of the Southern Province, the Eastern Region and old Anambra State. It was also the capital of old Enugu State that then comprised of a significant part of Ebonyi State. This makes it, implicitly, the capital of the south-east geo-political zone, and home to an agglomeration of political elites whose idiosyncrasies, not to mention their bitter rivalry or squabbling, often require more than a middling skill to manage. Ugwuanyi’s success in this regard derives from his disarming humility as well as empathy, an important leadership quality sorely lacking at the national space currently. These are not qualities that can be contrived. He expresses these quite naturally and without any hint of condescension.

Indeed, the trust that Ugwuanyi inspires is often so compelling that it sometimes seems quite surreal. There is, for instance, an internecine conflict that had proved intractable for decades in Enugu, defying peace efforts initiated by both military and civilian administrations in the past. The intractable nature of the crisis had often made it seem like one that has to be lived with. The cause of the crisis is the pernicious issue of social exclusion still prevalent in some Igbo communities that

discriminates against individuals on account of family lineage, and denies them the right to ascend to the traditional stool in their communities. It is credit to Ugwuanyi’s power of mediation and unrelenting quest for justice that both communities in Nkanu East Local Government Area have today embraced peace and put aside that ugly past that blighted their development for years.

But even when occasional spike in crime occurs as it would in every society, Ugwuanyi seldom retreats to the background.

It’s not uncommon seeing him make barnstorming appearance at criminals’ hideouts alongside his security details, who have since given up attempts to dissuade him. Those who don’t know him might assume that such actions are staged for the cameras to bolsters his reputation. But Ugwuanyi has no populist inclination. He deplores any attempt to reap any political capital from unfortunate situations in the same way that he discourages accolades for performing duties which, to all intents and purposes, are the raison d’etre for governments anywhere in the world.

So, his actions are never motivated by the plaudits they would likely generate. The concern, for him, is how an action directly impacts the situation it addresses. In most cases, the outcome eventually validates the process, as it did when a cross-boundary kidnap-for-ransom gang practically laid siege at the Awgu axis of the Enugu - Port Harcourt highway, capitalizing on the many caves in the surrounding forest to move their victims. Ugwuanyi literally led from the front, rallying a coordinated swoop on the cavernous hideouts for days that led to the arrests of the masterminds and release of several victims.

At present, the Peoples Democratic Party is still prevaricating on the question of zoning of its presidential ticket, torn as it is between the intense pressure mounted by a tiny but influential bloc that the contest be thrown open, and the overriding sentiment - even outside the party - for it to be zoned to the south. With the unflattering state of affairs in Nigeria in almost every sphere of living, the prospect of a PDP victory has never looked more probable as it currently does. But its chances will to a great degree be determined by its choice of presidential candidate. There’s no doubt that settling for any aspirant with vaunting ambition and a sense of entitlement will dim its chances of success at the general election. A safe choice would be an individual whose unassuming character and inclination for building consensus reassure - rather than repulse - the electorate, especially those who are as yet undecided.

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PHOTO NEWS

L-R: National Legal Officer, African Democratic Congress (ADC) Mr. Peter Oyewole; Secretary, Board of Trustees, ADC, Mr. Akin Braithwaite; National Chairman, ADC, Chief Ralph Okey Nwosu; ADC Lagos State Governorship Aspirant, Mr. Funsho Doherty; and ADC Presidential Aspirant, Chukwuka Monye during Funsho Doherty declaring as Lagos State Governorship Aspirant under ADC held at Freedom Park in Lagos Lagos……yesterday

L-R: Secretary, Modakeke Advancement Initiative, Mr Isaac Salako; member, Mr. Akin Akinrotimi; Chairman, Mr. Wale Olanrewaju; and member, Pastor Yinka Oluwawumi, at the official opening of a clinic donated by Modakeke Advancement Initiative in Modakeke, Osun State...recently

L-R: West Africa Manager, Bord Bia, Ese Okpomo; Award Winning Mixologist and Competition Judge, Hady Harmanani; Mixologist and Winner of the Irish Mixers Club mixology competition, Olanrewaju Babatunde; Lifestyle enthusiast and Competition Judge, Antonia Soares; Founder Circa, Lagos and Competition judge, Owolabi Akanimodo; Comedian and Master of Ceremony, Larry J; at the Grand Finale of Bord Bia Irish Mixers Club Mixology Competition for St. Patrick’s Day in Lagos…

L-R: Executive Director, Cordros Capital Limited, Mr. Femi Ademola; Chairman, Cordros Asset Management Limited, Mr. Emeka Ndu; representative of Marble Capital Limited (Shariah Adviser to the Fund), Mrs. Adenike Adeboye; Group Managing Director, Cordros Capital Limited, Mr. Wale Agbeyangi; and Managing Director, Cordros Asset Management Limited, Mr. Gbolahan Aina during a press conference to announce the launch of Cordros Halal Fixed Income Fund in Lagos …. recently

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER MARCH 26, 2022

MEDIAGAFFES

EXPRESSION

Confidence in, Not ‘On’

L

ET us welcome, for the first time, Insurance Business to our clinic: “…restore the trust and confidence of pensioners and the entire labour force on (in) their pension administrators.”

“Customs sensitises (sensitizes, preferably) clearing agents on (to) SOP, processes, capabilities” “Reps charge FG to handover (hand over) refineries to IOCs” NATIONAL NEWS of March 16 continues the interrogation of the copious foibles of this week: “…said the appointment is (was) pursuant to the power vested in….”

“The local security personnel were on a joint patrol along the area when they ran into gunmen who shot sporadically on (at) them.”

“Good enough, President Muhammadu Buhari has given assurance (an assurance or assurances, depending on context) that his administration will….”

“We made a mistake in 2015 but by the grace of God, the PDP is ready to rescue our country and rebuild it again….” Delete the last word in the extract because of its encapsulation in ‘rebuild’.

THISDAY of March 19 takes over the baton today with these front-page infelicities: “…the Gods (gods) of the kingdom must be appeased.”

“Barely few (a few) hours after the court’s decision….”

“Ubani tells state governors to demand for stamp duties revenues” Delete ‘for’ in the interest of orderliness. “…discusses the company’s 4th anniversary celebration as well as it’s (its) commitment to social responsible (responsibility) initiatives.”

DAILY INDEPENDENT of March 14 offered readers three headline blunders: “Man attempts suicide at (on) court premises, says Atiku owes him N15m” “Cancel oil bloc (block) licenses (licences in British English as opposed to the extracted

Americanism), Urhobo youths urge FG” “Police makes (make) another haul of stolen vehicles” THE NATION of March 14 also committed the same goof: “Police admits (admit) increasing crime rate in Lagos” The next two errors are equally from the above edition of THE NATION: “Work on some structures have (has) been completed while….”

“Distinguished accountant per (par) excellence….”

“Nigerian ship arrested in Ghana over (for) crude oil theft” (Vanguard, March 13) I received a text message from a reader who sought to know which of my entries is the correct version: the one inside or outside the bracket. Usually, the ones bracketed are the right entries. This, of course, excludes the attributions or other general references that come up at times. “…add that to the scores of multifarious of (sic) task forces charged with all manners of activities some of which border on the ludicrous.”

(THE NATION OPINION Page, March 13) Policy: all manner of activities.

“Never in the country’s judicial history has (have) so many committees been set up over one man.” (THE NATION LAW, March 13) THE GUARDIAN LAW Page of March 13 also contravened one lexical stipulation: “Lawyers converge in (on) Benin for review of election tribunals” “Those at the forefront in ECOWAS should start by doing the little things first before going for the big bang.” ‘Bang’ does not need any amplification as it is already a sudden loud noise.

Such an application is the hallmark of illiteracy.

“The Igbo cultural war dancers at (on) the occasion” (Vanguard, February 24) “Wade’s tenure extension chicanery is an affront on (to) the Senegalese 2001 Constitution….” (National News, February 23) “Contrary to what the CBN governor may want us to see, critical (a critical) analysis of his activities show (shows) a resourceful….”

The next gaffe is from a full page advert by

ewabara@yahoo.com, 08055001948

Congress for Good Governance: “…enlightened and superior intelligence with regards to public or political questions.” Another form of intellectual violence: with regard to or as regards.

“Nigeria, China trade hit (hits) $10b” “Investment into power without right tariff difficult—NERC” (DAILY INDEPENDENT, February 23) Business: investment into (in) power….

“APC flags-off (flags off) 2023 season with Sagamu all comers” “Lagos on the match again” ‘Match’ for ‘march’? Why not vernacular at once instead of this stark illiteracy!

“Civic education advocated for sustainance (sustenance) of democracy” This apparently infinitesimal difference defines the character of writing.

“The current curricula were due for renew 11 years ago.” (Daily Trust, March 14) Back to the “A man seating (sitting) behind a motorbike (on a motor-bike?) had been asked to disperse the feathers of a chicken.” (Leadership, March 15) “The dead doesn’t (don’t) talk” (The Moment, March 15) “…the former Bayelsa State Governor who had come to be part of history was ferried out of the troubled (trouble) spot without any bruises.” (Daily Sun, March 15) “Six months after assuming office they had his body riddled with bullets in a hold up (hold-up) along a narrow street in Lagos Island….” (DAILY INDEPENDENT , February 13) Remembering Murtala Muhammed: on Lagos Island “And certainly, we must look forward to a final end to soldierly incursions into (upon or on) our political life, whether by ‘invitation’, collusion or whatever” (THE GUARDIAN, March 15) Grumbling from the North: either finality or an end. ‘Final end’ sounds chaotic.

“On May 29, we swore into the highest pinnacle of our country a man who has rekindled a light of hope over the quagmires of our

‘Perceptions 2023’ In Percentages

A

s to be expected, reactions to our Perception 2023 series attracted diverse reactions across those nine editions which ended in the last edition. While many were warmly appreciative of the efforts, others were dismissive, downright petulant, vitriolic or, in few instances, combatively uncouth. We took it all in our stride, understanding that it was normal that people react to negative or positive declarations based on their current fixations, affiliations or allegiances.

Since a column is a pool where ideas and positions contest for space and prominence, it is not unusual to read contrary submissions that seek to deflect your analysis, or even attempt to denigrate without any shred of verifiable evidence.

Our style is to let people vend their positions, and let the discerning skim, stir and scoop what makes sense to them.

One suggestion stuck out of the warring pile for its strangeness, and ultimately its drawing energy, for us. Roughly paraphrased, it goes thus: after all these your ‘long-long’ analyses, can you cut to the brass stacks, and give us what will be your percentage scores or ratings of all the 12 people you chronicled? Hhhhmmph It bears repeating, briefly, what was being referred to here, for some context: we wrote a series initially entitled “My Perceptions 2023” between January 15 and March 19, 2022 in this column, which ran for nine editions, involving 12 presidential ‘suspects’. Therein, we detailed our perceptions of their electability and general acceptability ahead of the 2023 general elections.

Well, the challenge was a little awkward, yet compelling. Of course, we appreciate the fact that there is no angel or saint in politics...certainly not among Nigerian politicians. Arguably, the most ambitious of us have often disappointed us...in spite of our prayers and wishes. Nonetheless, we have decided to give it a shot. Here are our perception-performance quotient in percentages (%), including some ‘pros’ and ‘cons’ - in order of publication: ROCHAS OKOROCHA - 25% (Pros: colourful, gift of the garb; cons: impetuous,

flighty, bombastic, ostentatious, weighed down with corruption allegations, etc)

reality, hampered by corruption allegations, slightly disadvantaged by age, etc)

BUKOLA SARAKI - 35% (Good composure, firm, unflappable ambitious, hardworking; disingenuous, unpredictable, hamstrung by the weird zoning prerogative of current political reality, weighed down with corruption allegations, etc)

BOLA TINUBU - 50% (Popular amongst his people, flush with serious wealth of debatable sources, media savvy, astute HRD buff, serious nationwide affiliations, ambitious, hardworking, visible, relentless; hampered by sundry corruption allegations, open to wild opposition mudslinging as the most feared pacesetter, susceptible to occasional gaffes, strong suspicion of unstable health status, disadvantaged by age, etc)

KAYODE FAYEMI - 40% (Strategic, fairly young, erudite, ambitious, good comportment; restless without landmark results, limited gravitas, may have to deal with corruption allegations post immunity cover, etc) KINGSLEY MOGHALU - 45% (Erudite, exposed, ambitious, good composure; lightweight organisationally, bereft of requisite cash cow, largely a fish out of murky waters, etc) NYESOM WIKE - 20% (Energetic, fairly young, relentless in pursuit of goals, flush in unidentifiable wealth; irascible, pugnacious, prone to violence and vitriol, a cantankerous persona designed to polarise and disintegrate, may have to deal with corruption allegations post immunity cover, etc) YAHAYA BELLO - 25% (Young, affable, business-like, ambitious, unidentifiably wealthy; hamstrung by the weird zoning prerogative of current political reality, no record of landmark actions in ongoing assignment, currently saved by immunity from sundry corruption allegations, etc) AMINU TAMBUWAL - 40% (Fairly young, good composure, primed for leadership, ambitious and urbane; often swept under the radar, projects ambivalence, hamstrung by the weird zoning prerogative of current political reality, etc) RABIU KWANKWASO - 30% (Popular amongst his people, philanthropic in a strategic sense, unflappable; hamstrung by the weird zoning prerogative of current political

EBERE WABARA

PETER OBI - 65% (Astute, seemingly upright, unusually prudent, ambitious, plenty of credible hands-on experience, proven record of public accomplishments, a sense of seriousness in policy and advocacy, closest to a genuine political article in contemporary time; prone to go under the radar, have to shoot down tax-evasion and non-asset declaration allegations more decisively, needs to build stronger crossover appeal, etc) ATIKU ABUBAKAR - 20% (Relentless, very wealthy of debatable sources, well connected nationwide, experienced, affable, composed; tainted by his boss’s tar brush despite damage-control measures, heavily weighed down by sundry corruption allegations, fond of going under the radar off-election season, uncontrolled coverage of his matrimonial shenanigans, hamstrung by the weird zoning prerogative of current political reality, disadvantaged by age, etc.)

YEMI OSINBAJO - 60% (Composed, erudite, likable, gift of the garb, hands-on experience, relatable earthiness, seen as an outlier of the crass political culture, pragmatic; tainted by past high-level political relationship, hampered by the less than average performance of incumbent government, may be upended by reliance on political structures of others prone to switches on allegiances, stunted by the likelihood of regional backlash for checkmating the lifelong ambition of his godfather, slightly disadvantaged by age, etc).

global despair.” (THISDAY, March 15) It is best to rewrite this catastrophe: On May 29, we swore into the pinnacle of our country a man who has rekindled our hope. Let us avoid word-abuse (redundancy)!

“For my part, it is clear that primordial attitudes, prejudices, hatreds, arrogant claims of superiority....” My reaction: ‘hatred’ is non-count.

(Source: as above) “In fact, since the collapse of Nigeria’s dependent on oil income…” (Vanguard, March 15) Get it right: dependence.

“Not helping matters in the search for solution to unemployment problem in the country....” (THE GUARDIAN, March 15) No redundancy: ‘unemployment’ is clearly a problem. “…one sees many a senior military officer, both active and retired, openly congratulating Nigeria for (on) giving elected civilian free services as incentives.” (Daily Trust, March 15) “…the huge colossal damages (damage) the air strikes inflicted on the innocents (sic), especially the Kosovo people.” (THE GUARDIAN, March 15) Also, ‘huge’ and ‘colossal’ cannot function in the same lexical environment.

“Governor seeks military solution to armed banditry.” For the last time, there cannot be banditry without violence! Any room for subeditors’ refresher programmes? Job monotony can diminish literacy and inquisitiveness. Just use ‘banditry’ without qualification.

“Thugs fleece corp (corps) members” “Bereaved Nigerian mother lashes Austria over son’s death” Fixed expression: lash out at.

“Preliminary probe of Sylva, others begin in Bayelsa” Why the South-South discord? Probe... begins!

“South African minister to clampdown on guns” Noun: clampdown; verb: clamp down.

“Rediscovering the African idiom at World Music Day” Art and Life: on World Music Day.

COUNTERPOINT

FEMI

AKINTUNDE-JOHNSON

fajalive1@gmail.com 08182223348 - (SMS Only)

The End. SONI IRABOR: A TITAN AT 70 On Wednesday, March 23, 2022, the goldenvoiced darling of radio listeners hit the great 70th mark. There’s a substantial gap between us - age wise, professionally, socially and economically - yet he conducts himself around my family like a dotting uncle and eager benefactor.

He has a way of transporting his sunny, cheery disposition to his listeners, viewers and those in his physical space. Soni Irabor is the quintessential radio man, a natural on TV...and exemplary in training and molding the next generations.

To honour God on that day, he shared his remarkable story, and a painful secret. It is worthy of our contemplation: “As I turn 70 (three score and 10) today, the 23rd of March, I would like to reflect on the last two years of my life. Right in the middle of a pandemic I had a stroke! Dr Seyi Roberts, my friend and doctor described it as an evolving stroke.

Our home was turned upside down momentarily.

When you have a great family you can rise faster against all travails. When I count my blessings, I count my wife, children and big sister.

I won’t lie, it has been very challenging especially as I also began to suffer from vertigo.

However, I am grateful to God for making me see and mark this milestone. I thank Him for my journey to recovery.

I was 17 when I left Benin for the proverbial greener pastures in Lagos. I always wanted to be a radio presenter having been inspired by Dele Olowu on Midwest Radio.

My dream of being on radio didn’t manifest until I was 22 when broadcasters like Patrick Oke and Jones Usen encouraged me to be the voice on NBC mail bag (now email). I was told I had a radio voice.

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3

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ APRIL 24, 2011

GLOBAL SOCCER A

WEEKLY PULL-OUT

26.3.2022

NEWS

A PLACE IN QATAR PAGE. 29

Victor Osimhen The New Nigerian Serie A King

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ MARCH 26, 2022

28

GLOBAL SOCCER

Victor Osimhen The New Nigerian Serie A King Victor Osimhen celebrates his second goal against Udinese

Since joining Napoli in the summer of 2020, he has left no one in doubt about his preparedness to take Serie A by storm in spite of his first season being blighted by injury and COVID-19 . Last week,Victor Osimhen brushed aside what Super Eagles Obafemi Martins might have achieved with Inter Milan by becoming the first Nigerian to score double digit goals in two seasons. Little wonder Napoli manager, Luciano Spalletti said the former Lille man is not getting enough compliments from the club

S

uper Eagles striker, Victor Osimhen seems not to stop scoring as he continued from where he stopped penultimate weekend to score another brace against Udinese last Saturday to take his brace to three this season.

With that, the Napoli striker has become the first Nigerian player to hit double figures in two different Serie A seasons with his brace last Saturday.

With the feat, Osimhen also equalled African legends- George Weah, Samuel Eto’o and Mohamed Salah’s record in achieving double figures in two consecutive Serie A seasons, while he became just the fourth African player to achieve the feat in the Italian top-flight league.

Osimhen helped Luciano Spalletti’s side come from behind with two second-half goals that steered them to a 2-1 victory over Udinese at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium to take his goals tally to 11 so far in the Serie A campaign.

The brace took the 23-year-old’s league tally to 11 goals after 20 league appearances so far in this campaign.

It was his third brace in the Italian top-flight this term and he has now achieved a feat former Nigerian stars

like Obafemi Martins, Nwankwo Kanu, Ayo Makinwa and Obinna Nsofor were never able to achieve in Serie A. Since he moved to the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona from Lille in August 2020, he has scored 21 goals in 44 Serie A games.

Napoli manager has been singing Osimhen’s praises following his manof-the-match performance in the 2-1 win over Udinese.

Napoli fell behind to a fine Gerard Deulofeu strike midway into the opening period, but Osimhen turned the tide around for the hosts within 11 secondhalf minutes.

The 23-year-old then showed brilliant awareness to meet Di Lorenzo’s low cross with a first-time finish to secure all three points for Il Partenopei.

Only penultimate week, Osimhen netted both goals as Napoli claimed a hard-fought 2-1 win at Verona.

Napoli boss is aware that the Neapolitans are still in the title race because of Osimhen’s brilliance. And the 63-yearold tactician is convinced that the club’s record signing is even better than what people say.

“He is a footballer who manages to go beyond his limit,” a delighted Spalletti said after Osimhen’s last brace.

“When you think he is at his maximum potential, he manages to give an extra boost. He is a strong footballer, but you don’t push him too far. We don’t pay him enough compliments.”

Unfortunately for Napoli, Osimhen picked up a yellow card deep into stoppage time after a handball incident.

The Super Eagles striker has accumulated five yellow cards and will be suspended for his side’s next league clash against Atalanta after the international break.

Osimhen’s form so far this season has not escaped the prying eyes of some big European sides like Real Madrid, Manchester United, Arsenal, Tottenham and Newcastle. Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis says he is ready to listen to offers for the Nigerian striker for €100m.

According to Italian publication tuttonapoli.net, Napoli are not willing to let go of their most valuable player, but De Laurentiis, due to pressure and demands is now willing to listen to offers but anything short of €100m will not be accepted by the Napoli boss.

“The increasingly convincing performances and goals of Victor Osimhen in the Napoli shirt are increasing attention and polls towards the Nigerian forward

in view of the summer,” the website statement read in part.

“Napoli’s idea is certainly not to deprive themselves of him in June, but a lot will depend on any offers and also on the ideas of the player and his entourage.

“At what figures? The starting point will be €100m, unless the president Aurelio De Laurentiis will not even sit at the negotiating table.”

Osimhen is presently with the Super Eagles for the double header World Cup qualifier against Ghana as he hopes to compensate for his African Cup of Nations miss with an appearance at the Mundial in Qatar.

Former Manchester United striker Victor Ighalo spoke fondly on the achievement of his national team mate, saying he was not surprised by the progress of the Napoli striker.

“I’m very happy and I’m proud of Victor, I do communicate with him every time, I keep encouraging him that he’s doing so well, he should keep being humble, keep working harder.

“He has not achieved anything yet because I know in two to three years’ time this guy will be playing in the Premier League and going to be the best scorer because I can see his hunger.

“Even when we were at AFCON (Egypt 2019) he was bit frustrated he was not playing, he’s not happy.

“I told him Victor your time will come, I told him I’m leaving, you are the one that is going to take over this Number 9 shirt if you believe in yourself and you work hard, I can see your potential and I’m so happy and glad that he’s doing that.”

True to Ighalo’s prediction, Osimhen inherited the Number 9 shirt, but his dream of showcasing himself at the 2022 AFCON was a mirage after Covid ruled him out of the biennial competition.

29

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ MARCH 26, 2022

GLOBAL SOCCER

Kelechi Iheanacho celebrates scoring for Nigeria with his teammates

Cup.

Kelechi Iheanacho

Nigeria’s Place in Qatar is Secured

Kelechi Iheanacho doesn’t mind wandering down memory lane to an autumn day in Marrakesh nine years ago. It was his first time representing Nigeria in an official tournament-and it was against Ghana.

The Leicester forward extinguished the script as he sizzled and scored as the Golden Eaglets won 6-1 en route to FIFA U-17 World Cup qualification. Curiously, Iheanacho has never faced Ghana again.That however changed yesterday when the Black Stars hosted the Super Eagles in the first leg of their play-off for a place in Qatar. FIFA caught up with Iheanacho to discuss his evolution as a player, learning from Sergio Aguero and JamieVardy, his Russia 2018 experience, the intense Ghana-Nigeria rivalry and the 25-year-old’s confidence his country will reach the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 You’ve only played against Ghana once in your career: in a FIFA U-17 World Cup qualifier in 2013. You scored, Nigeria won 6-1 and you went on to win the global finals. Not a bad record to have against your arch-rivals, right?

Y

eah! (laughs) You’ve just reminded me, it was a long time ago. But I remember it, yeah. I scored, we got a big win – couldn’t get much better. It’s a good record but now I have to keep it going and help Nigeria get through against Ghana and to the World Cup.

You played at the World Cup in 2018.

Nigeria put in some good performances in a tough group, but a wonder goal from Lionel Messi helped Argentina pip you to a place in the knockout phase. How was that experience?

It was a massive experience and one that everyone dreams of having.

The World Cup is the biggest stage in football and every player desperately want to be there. It’s incredible to be

there, to play in those games, in those atmospheres, against all the stars. We had a tough group but we managed to put in some good performances. We were a bit unlucky and we didn’t take our chances.

But it was an amazing experience and you obviously remember playing against someone like Messi. But being at a World Cup makes you want to be at the next one even more. Hopefully we can get past Ghana and take our chances in Qatar.

Can you describe the footballing rivalry between Nigeria and Ghana?

It’s not just a rivalry – it’s way more than that. It’s a lot of things. It’s a massive game. It means everything to Nigerians anyway, and this time it’s for a World Cup place. I really hope we can go through and make our people happy.

You will be up against your Leicester team-mate Daniel Amartey. Has there been much discussion about the tie between you? (laughs) A little bit. He’s told me how he’s going to mark me, stop me, and I’ve told him how I’m going to help us score goals against them. But it’s just banter. It’s

good rivalry.

Your strike partner Victor Osimhen is having a great season for Napoli.

What do you think of him?

Everybody knows he’s a fantastic striker. He’s a great goal poacher. He has great talent. I’m always very happy playing alongside him because I know his game, I know his strengths, and he knows mine as well. Sometimes I find myself playing behind him. I think we have a good partnership and hopefully we’ll work more together going forward.

How confident are you that Nigeria will emerge triumphant against Ghana?

I’m 100-per-cent confident that we will go through. Obviously they have a strong team, a strong squad, good players, and they really want to win as well, so it’s not going to be easy. It’s going to be a fight. We have to work really hard and want it more than them. But I have so much confidence in this Nigeria team and the group of lads we have here. I’m very confident we will be at the World

You were only born in 1996, but you must have seen footage of the amazing Super Eagles side in the World Cups and Olympics in the 1990s. What did you think of that team?

It was a really happy time for the fans.

It was a really fantastic side. They had amazing players, wonderfully talented attacking players. I think we have fantastic players as well. That team was together for a long time. We obviously have to work really hard, but hopefully we can become a fantastic side like they were. When I was growing up people would always talk about that side and people still have really great memories of them.

On the subject of growing up, who were your heroes?

Growing up I loved Ronaldinho. I loved his style of play, his confidence, the way he loved football. The way he dribbled, the way he played passes, his touches. He is one of the greatest players of all time.

You have played alongside two great strikers in Sergio Aguero and Jamie Vardy…

They are two legends. It was a really big pleasure to play alongside Kun. He’s a legend and I learnt a lot from him. And ‘Vards’ is another legend. He’s one of the best finishers you will see and I’ve learnt a lot from him too.

On a personal level, you have been a revelation over the past year, winning a Premier League player of the month award, playing the leading role in Leicester’s FA Cup-conquering campaign and scoring the only goal against Manchester City in the Community Shield…

I think it was down to hard work. It’s a privilege to be in this team, it’s a lovely squad, great players and coaches. We worked really hard together and we had a great season. We won the FA Cup, which was a big achievement in the club’s history. And for me personally last season was a revelation. I’m really happy that I managed to play a part.

30

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ MARCH 26, 2022

GLOBAL SOCCER

L-R; Senator Lanre Tejuosho, Pro-Chancellor, University of Lagos, Akoka, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, Speaker, House of Representatives, Sunday Dare, Hon Minister of Youths & Sports, Prof Oluwatoyin Ogundipe, ViceChancellor, University of Lagos at the opening ceremony of the 2022 NUGA Games

Ola Aina put in adescent performance against Ghana yesterday

Curtain Closes on 2022 NUGA Games Still A Lot to Play for as Nigeria, Ghana Cancel Each Other Out Today as Uniport Set to Win

2022 WORLD CUP PLAYOFF

The Super Eagles of Nigeria and Ghana’s Black Stars and Nigeria cancelled each other out for a 0-0 draw in their first-leg 2022 World Cup qualifier at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi yesterday night.

The Super Eagles and the Black Stars will now head to Moshood Abiola Stadium, Abuja on Tuesday 29 March for the return game to decide which of these two West African arch rivals will claim a place in Qatar.

Ghana fed off the ferocious atmosphere at the packed venue, launching early attacks in which they tried to use the pace of Abdul Fatawu Issahaku, Felix Afena-Gyan and Mohammed Kudus to get in behind the Nigerian defence.

Nigerian forwards Kelechi Iheanacho and Victor Osimhen fed off scraps in the opening

quarter, with the latter having only one real opening when left-back Sanusi Zaidu whipped in a great cross which was just beyond the number nine’s reach.

The first notable save from either goalkeeper was made

by Nigeria’s Francis Uzoho in the 33rd minute, as he palmed away a thunderous shot from just outside the penalty area

by Issahaku.

The Super Eagles began to find some attacking rhythm in the latter minutes of the first half, with their best chance falling to Joe Aribo as he ran onto a ball directed to the right of the penalty area, but the Rangers midfielder blazed a shot high and wide.

The first half came to a close with the teams still locked at 0-0, while the early minutes of the second had Ghana back on top, forcing

the visitors onto the back foot with their attacking pressure – though they did not test out Uzoho.

On 55 minutes Black Stars goalkeeper Joe Wollacat was called upon to make his first notable save, turning away a shot from Moses Simon after the winger had cut inside from the left and let fly.

The Super Eagles soon opted for a double change, with Emmanuel Dennis and Frank Onyeka replacing Samuel Chukwueze and Aribo, before Ghana’s Thomas Partey saw a long-range strike deflected just over the target on the hour mark.

Ten minutes later Kudus cut inside from the right and saw his low shot turned away by Uzoho, with the subsequent corner seeing Afena-Gyan missing out on a chance at the far post, as the hosts continued to search for a breakthrough.

… Egypt Beat Senegal as Algeria Inches Closer Qatar In this repeat of the African Cup of Nations final, Egypt beat Senegal by the narrowest of margins to take the lead in the first leg of the qualifiers for Qatar.

A fourth-minute own goal

by Senegal’s Saliou Ciss was enough to give Egypt a 1-0 win in the first leg of their World Cup play-off in Cairo.

Ciss was incredibly unlucky when a shot from Mohamed Salah was pushed on to the bar by Edouard Mendy before striking the defender and going into the net.

The game was billed as a rerun of the recent Africa Cup of Nations final - won

by Senegal on penalties after the match ended 0-0 - and to an extent it captured the cagey nature of that occasion back in February, with few chances of

significance created by either side.

The game featured Liverpool’s two star strikers Salah and Sadio Mane, but neither of them had stellar games.

Nevertheless, on a day dominated by north African teams - Algeria and Tunisia also won 1-0, albeit away, and Morocco got an away goal in a draw in DR Congo - Ciss’ unfortunate moment meant Egypt matched the achievements of their continental neighbours.

The teams meet again in the second leg on Tuesday, with the winner qualifying for November’s tournament in Qatar.

Both sides had a number of attempts, but the size of the occasion meant a lot were half-chances and deflected

efforts.

It made for a nervy last few minutes, but the Pharaohs held out.

They will now be out for revenge in the second leg after the heart-breaking penalty defeat last month, which stopped them from adding a record eighth Afcon title.

But Senegal coach Aliou Cisse may be cheered by knowing that his team surely won’t play as badly in front of their home fans - and they’re only down by a single goal.

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Olise Provisionally Cap-tied to France after Competitive Debut for U21s Crystal Palace winger Michael Olise became provisionally cap-tied to the France on Thursday night, allnigeriasoccer.com reports.

Having played two nonbinding games for France U18s at the Toulon Tournament in 2019, Olise hopped off the bench in the 64th minute to replace Sofiane Diop for his first competitive appearance for France U21s as they defeated Faroe Islands 2-1 in a 2023 European Championship qualifier.

The Reading academy product supplied the cross which led to France U21s second goal - an own goal

scored by Aki Johannessen in the 82nd minute.

Olise has to submit to FIFA an application for a one-time change of association should he decide to represent the Nigerian national team in future, provided that he is not capped at senior level for France in a competitive match.

The 20-year-old qualifies to represent Nigeria through his father, Algeria and France through his mother, as well as England where he was born.

Olise had been on the radar of the Nigeria Football Federation and was named in an expanded squad for

the Super Eagles’ 2021 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Benin and Lesotho a year ago.

NFF boss Amaju Pinnick, through a proxy, sounded him out about playing for the Super Eagles but he gave a negative answer, prior to accepting a call-up from the French Football Federation this month.

Olise is the second player of Nigerian descent provisionally cap-tied to France in recent years, following in the footsteps of AC Ajaccio defender Temitope Akinjogunla, who represented France at the 2019 Fifa U17 World Cup.

As the curtain draws on the 26th National University Games, tagged Unilag 2022, barring any miracle, University of Port Harcourt may emerge the overall winner having amassed 76 medals-38 gold, 17 silver and 21 bronze medals.

The school from Rivers State is followed by the host, University of Lagos with 51 medals-20 gold, 17 silver and 14 bronze medals.

NILE University of Nigeria, Abuja, is placed third with 24 medals-nine gold, seven silver and eight bronze medals, followed by Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, with 13 medal-six gold, six silver and one bronze medals.

University of Ilorin is placed

fifth with 16 medals-four gold, six silver and six bronze medals.

Federal University Ado Ekiti, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, University of Uyo, Abubakar Balewa University and Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta occupy the sixth, seventh, eight, nineth and 10th positions.

Curated by Idris Olorunnimbe led full-service creative agency, The Temple Company, NUGA ceremony also featured music performances by ‘Finese’ crooner, Pheelz and 9ice of the ‘Gongo Aso’ fame. Athletes and officials were also treated to performance of the NUGA theme by Tosin Martins, Bisola and Mavin Records act, Magixx.

To complete the night were

lavish displays of calisthenics and cultural dances by separate troupes such as students of UNILAG staff school, Creative Arts Department and Dance Na The Main Thing contemporary dance group. Simultaneously, a 15-minute fireworks display beautified the Lagos Skyline and transformed the venue into a carnival.

No fewer than 75 private and public institutions from across the country is taking part in the Games.

The 10-day ceremony features about 17 sporting activities with over 14,000 athletes while Unilag Indoor Sports Hall, YabaTech, Rowe Park, Yaba and Onikan Stadium serving as venues.

18 Schools Set for 7th PwC Chess4Change Tourney The stage is for the seventh edition of PwC Chess4Change championship for secondary schools in Lagos State. The championship, according to the organisers, MediaVision Ltd, is for between June 3 and September 30 this year.

The organisers added that 18 public secondary schools had been drawn from across four educational districts in state for the annual chess fiesta.

The participating schools are: Birrel Avenue Senior High School; Eva Adelaja Girls Senior Secondary School, Bariga; Immaculate Heart Comprehensive Senior Secondary School, Maryland; CMS Girls Senior School, Bariga; Ireti Senior Grammar School, Ikoyi; Eko Akete Grammar School, Lagos Island; Wahab Folawiyo Senior High, Osborne; Falomo Senior High School, Ikoyi.

Others are Kuramo Senior Secondary School, Victoria Island; Government Senior, Victoria Island; New Era Senior Secondary School, Surulere, Government Senior College, Eric Moore; Jubilee Model Senior Grammar School, Iganmu; Sari Iganmu Senior Secondary School, Orile; Euba Junior Secondary School, Mushin;

The Country Operations Partner, PwC, Mr. Pedro Omontuenhen

Unity Junior High School, Oshodi and Eko Boys High School, Mushin.

In a press briefing to launch this year’s edition, the Chairman Lagos Chess Association, Tokunbo Lagun, said chess was one way of keeping school children away from the streets, expressing that the game had really helped in mentoring the students for leadership positions.

In her remarks, representatives of the Lagos State Sports Commission, Mrs. Oluwasanmi Olaide noted that school sports was the bedrock of sports develop-

ment saying that the game of chess not only develop the students to be great sports men and women but also help develop them to be great entrepreneurs.

“Chess brings about great thinkers which is one of the vibes of Lagos State. Education and sports complement each other,” she said.

The Country Operations Partner, PricewaterhouseCooper, Mr. Pedro Omontuenhen said the competition was organised to impact positively on the academics and social life of the students. “We believe chess help improve the cognitive development of the students and also prevent them from various social vices. And this has made us to remain committed to bankroll this competition every year. “On this note, I want to urge the students to tap into this opportunity and grab it with both hands,” he stated.

Participating students are expected to undergo tutelage, mentorship process before the grand slam later in the year. Meanwhile, novelty game, chess in slum versus Chess4Change, facilitators and students have also been lined up.

Murray Sets Medvedev’s Challenge in Miami Open Andy Murray will face world No 2 Daniil Medvedev in the second round of the Miami Open after beginning the tournament with a straight-sets win over Federico Delbonis.

Murray beat Argentina’s Delbonis 7-6 (7-4) 6-1 on Thursday, easing to victory

in the second set after a tight first which did not feature a single break point.

The Scot eventually took a 6-4 advantage in the tiebreak and wrapped up the set when Delbonis double-faulted.

Murray broke immediately in the second set and strolled

to victory from that point as he bounced back from his defeat to Kazakhstan’s Alexander Bublik in the second round at Indian Wells last week.

A clash with top-seed Medvedev, runner-up to Rafael Nadal at the Australian Open in January, is next up.

31

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ MARCH 26, 2022

GLOBAL SOCCER

Calvin Bassey at the SuperEagles training camp in Abuja

Calvin Bassey Aiming for a Firm Grip in Super Eagles Glasgow Rangers star, Calvin Bassey has emerged as an Ibrox firstteamer this season and now the Gers full-back is looking to take the next step in his career with the National team The Gers already have two Super Eagles regulars in their squad with Leon Balogun and Joe Aribo with Calvin Bassey now also called up for the African nation.

Calvin Bassey, 22, has previously been called up to the Nigeria squad but has yet to be capped for the top team and could be handed his opportunity during this break.

AfterAFCON disappointment, Nigeria face a tough double-header with the Ghanian Black Stars in a match traditionally considered a rivalry on the continent.

The nation’s qualification for the World Cup in Qatar later this year depends on it and for Calvin Bassey, the Ibrox defender is fully-focused on the task at hand with Nigeria.

“It’s a massive game. I’m just focusing on how I can help the team, focus on what to do, what I need to do and my roles are going to be,” Bassey told NFF TV. “The biggest thing is to get focused and get locked in because it’s going to be a test. We know they are a good team; we also have good players and a good team.”

It speaks volumes that the Rangers left-back has been entrusted with a call-up for such a massively important match and it would be something of a baptism of fire to be thrown in.

But if Bassey’s Rangers form proves anything this season it’s that the youngster can step up when called upon.

Amid defensive issues at centre-back, Calvin Bassey valiantly stepped into the position whilst the Rangers star put an impressive performance against Borussia Dortmund in the Europa League and he can be a utility man for Nigeria.

With three Rangers stars in action for Nigeria against Ghana, the Rangers support will be getting right behind the Super Eagles as they bid for a spot at the World Cup. The Glasgow Rangers defender has never hidden his intention to represent Nigeria. Born in Italy, he pledged his allegiance to the Super Eagles instead of the Azzurri, England and Scotland.

However, Bassey is yet to be capped. He was invited for the World Cup qualifier double header against Central Africa Republic. However, the defender was just a bench-warmer, as he wasn’t given the opportunity to make his debut. It turned out to be the last time he was called up.

Bassey was snubbed for subsequent second leg games against Liberia and Cape Verde in Nigeria. He was not considered for the Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon.

A solid defender, the Nigerian is quite versatile, as he can play in all positions in defence, although his preferred position is at left-back. Strong, aggressive and powerful, he can cause restless moments

for strikers.

Having risen through the youth ranks at Leicester City, Bassey joined the Gers in 2020. In his maiden season at the Ibrox Stadium, he made eight league appearances for Steven Gerrard’s men, while featuring in the Scottish Cup and League Cup respectively. To cap a notable start to life, Bassey featured in four Europa League matches, although, Rangers crashed out in the Round of 16.

This season, his stock has risen considerably. Bassey started 25 games across competitions, featuring five times in the Europa League. He has not missed any minute of action this year.

“He’s a fantastic kid, a kid who wants to learn, who wants to grow and evolve with the team, we’re really confident we can help polish him up and get him to become even better than he is,” Gerrard raves about him following his impactful contribution against Standard Liege last season.

“He’s got really interesting attributes right now and he showed them on Thursday night, which was fantastic to see.

“He’s in a good place and he’s ready.

That’s the key thing. Calvin, every time he has been called upon since he walked in, he’s been ready to produce. So, he’s in a good place.”

Bassey has all the attributes needed to be a top player in terms of his ability on the ball and his work rate. He can become the long-term successor of Willliam Troost-Ekong or Leon Balogun, the famed but ageing ‘Oyibo Wall’.

Quick-thinking Bassey showed the way to his Nigeria team-mates during a risky exit from their plane after touching down in Ghana.

The Super Eagles were met with a treacherous exit upon arrival as players with a four feet leap from the airbus down to the attached steps.

Ahost of Nigeria players decided to hop off while reaching for the railing, however, Bassey applied a dose of common by simply sitting down before departing.

He impressed those exiting behind him, which included Aribo who followed his Rangers team-mate’s method.

It was all smiles from the versatile Rangers defender but he will be all business ahead of a winner takes all double header against the Black Stars in the coming days.

G LO B A L S O C C E R ASSISTANT EDITOR KUNLE ADEWALE THISDAY ON SATURDAY EDITOR YEMI ADEBOWALE DEPUTY EDITOR AHAMIFULA OGBU THISDAY NEWSPAPERS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU

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SATURDAY MARCH 26, 2022 • T H I S D AY

SATURDAY MARCH 26, 2022 • T H I S D AY

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER MARCH 26, 2022

AUTO WORLD

Bennett Oghifo 07052343083 Email:bennett.oghifo@thisdaylive.com

TIPS OF THE WEEK

When Your Kickstarter Is Faulty: Causes And Solution

Toyota-certified service centre in Oshodi, Lagos

Osinbajo Inaugurates Toyotacertified Service Centre in Lagos

V

ice-President Yemi Osinbajo recently inaugurated D 7R\RWD FHUWLÀHG VHUYLFH centre in Oshodi, a commercial hotspot on the Apapa-Oshodi Expressway of Lagos.

The state-of-the-art facility built by Toyota Nigeria Limited is described as a legacy project comprising a standard showroom, a collision repair centre, a general repair workshop with sophisticated equipment and a spare parts warehouse.

Osinbajo said with the level of sophistication and deployment of modern technology at the facility, the centre stands out as a milestone achievement that would contribute immensely to the development of the auto industry and the nation’s economy.

He said, “I must confess to being quite fascinated by the multiple resources and outcomes that this facility possesses and is designed to achieve.

“It is not merely a service centre for providing quality after-sale service (although we are told that is one of the objectives for establishing it), it is actually developed as a teaching, research and resource centre, to provide dealers with world-class, practical hands-on training.”

The capacity building aspect of the facility tallied with a number of skill acquisition and empowerment schemes of the federal government for young Nigerians, according to Osinbajo.

“This year also, the Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme will begin. Every year under the programme, 20,000 graduates, after their youth service, will be given fully-paid internships that

will last for 12 months in reputable private and public sector organisations across the country such as Toyota Nigeria Limited,” he said.

According to him, part of the duties of government is to provide fertile ground and an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.

He commended the TNL team, led by its chairman, Chief Michael Ade.Ojo for the visionary project.

“We must all be proud of the achievements of Toyota Nigeria in the past decades.Toyota is by far Nigeria’s favourite car. But it came to be so because of the foresight, commitment to high values and focused investments of Chief Michael Ade-Ojo, OON, the founder and visioner of this foremost automotive enterprise, starting over 50 years ago with the establishment of Elizade Motors.”

Mercedes Produces AMG-G-63-Edition-55 Exclusive Model to Mark 55 Years of AMG

M

ercedes-Benz has produced an AMG-G-63-Edition-55 Exclusive Model to Mark 55 Years of AMG. According to the automaker, AMG - for 55 years now, these three letters have stood for top automotive performance, exclusivity and high driving dynamics worldwide. The G-Class has enjoyed a unique position in the AMG portfolio for over two decades and is thus our king of off-road performance. Its cult status makes it the ideal ambassador to ring in the 55th anniversary of the sports car and performance brand - with the special edition Mercedes-AMG G 63 “Edition 55” (WLTP: combined fuel consumption 16.0 l/100 km, combined CO2 emissions 363 g/km)[1].

Particularly exquisite equipment details underline Mercedes-AMG’s claim to offer customers the highest possible individuality and exclusivity.

The anniversary model can be ordered now until October 2022. More birthday surprises will follow in the coming months.

“From a two-man start-up in 1967 to a state-ofthe-art development site including its own engine manufacturing facility for high-performance vehicles and more than 2000 excellently qualified employees in 2022 - the success story of Mercedes-AMG over the past 55 years is simply impressive. The same applies to the G-Class, which has remained true to itself for over four decades in the course of its unique career. Its long history and still genuine character makes it the perfect first well-wisher for me on our 55th birthday. And just as the G-Class will lose nothing of its original character in its future all-electric variant, Mercedes-AMG is

Mercedes AMG-G-63-Edition-55 Exclusive Model

also ensuring the hallmark driving performance made in Affalterbach in its electrified future. The departure into the next 55 years of the company’s history will certainly be as exciting and challenging as the task our company founders Hans Werner Aufrecht and Erhard Melcher set themselves back then,” says Philipp Schiemer, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG GmbH. The Mercedes-AMG G 63 “Edition 55” is available in obsidian black metallic or G manufaktur opalite

white bright paint. The colours on both sides of the vehicle are coordinated with the AMG emblem and the suggested AMG rhombus. Exciting contrasts are provided by the 22-inch AMG forged wheels in a cross-spoke design with a matt tantalum grey paint finish and a high-sheen rim flange, as well as the AMG Night Package and the AMG Night package II. The fuel filler cap in silver chrome with AMG lettering also bears witness to great attention to detail.

A vehicle’s kickstarter is the part of a car system responsible for initiating the engine ignition which starts the running of the car.

Kickstarter problems arise unexpectedly and for more than one reason. Whenever there’s corroded terminals, loose connections, a bad, worn out or damaged system component you’ll notice. Starting your car becomes PRUH GL΀FXOW RU LW VLPSO\ UHIXVHV WR VWDUW Unfortunately, you won’t see the source of the problem when all of a sudden the system fails. And repeatedly turning the ignition key, KRSLQJ WKDW HYHQWXDOO\ WKH HQJLQH ZLOO ÀUH up when it refuses to start, doesn’t always help. Most often, it creates more problems.

Fortunately, common kickstarter system problems happen in predictable places.

And you have at your disposal more than one strategy to help you check the system in your car. Whether it is lack of power, a bad electrical connection, or a bad starter FRPSRQHQW XVH WKHVH ÀYH WURXEOHVKRRWLQJ WLSV WR ÀUH XS \RXU HQJLQH DJDLQ %HJLQ ZLWK one of the most common sources of engine starting problems.

A vehicle’s kickstarter is the part of a car system responsible for initiating the engine ignition which starts the running of the car.

Kickstarter problems arise unexpectedly and for more than one reason. Whenever there’s corroded terminals, loose connections, a bad, worn out or damaged system component you’ll notice. Starting your car becomes PRUH GL΀FXOW RU LW VLPSO\ UHIXVHV WR VWDUW Unfortunately, you won’t see the source of the problem when all of a sudden the system fails. And repeatedly turning the ignition key, KRSLQJ WKDW HYHQWXDOO\ WKH HQJLQH ZLOO ÀUH up when it refuses to start, doesn’t always help. Most often, it creates more problems.

Fortunately, common kickstarter system problems happen in predictable places.

And you have at your disposal more than one strategy to help you check the system in your car. Whether it is lack of power, a bad electrical connection, or a bad starter FRPSRQHQW XVH WKHVH ÀYH WURXEOHVKRRWLQJ WLSV WR ÀUH XS \RXU HQJLQH DJDLQ %HJLQ ZLWK one of the most common sources of engine starting problems.

Corrosion around battery terminals prevents HOHFWULFDO ÁRZ 7KLV LV D FRPPRQ SUREOHP on a battery or starter system that hasn’t received much attention. If you notice a layer of corrosion around one or both battery terminals, clean them with a solution of baking soda and warm water. You can order a well formulated battery terminal cleaner here $ VWDUWHU VROHQRLG FRPHV LQ GLͿHUHQW VKDSHV based on vehicle brands but they all do pretty much the same thing, crank an ignition. Check the connections at the starter solenoid (the small cylinder on top of the starter) or starter relay. Most Ford vehicles use a remote starter relay instead of a solenoid. The positive (red) battery cable connects directly to the solenoid RU VWDUWHU UHOD\ &DQ·W ÀQG WKH UHOD\" &RQVXOW the vehicle repair manual for your particular car make and model. If the solenoid or relay fails, the car won’t start. Check for dirty, loose, disconnected or broken wires that will prevent electrical current from reaching the motor.

If the wires and connections are in good condition, the starter motor, solenoid or relay have failed, and you need to replace it.

Check The Starter Motor Depending on your particular vehicle model you may need to raise the front of the car or remove the intake manifold or some other component to reach the starter motor. Consult the car repair manual for your particular model, if necessary. Watch the video below to get a visual reference of the trouble points you want to pay attention to.

If you removed the starter motor for inspection, this is a good chance to check WKH Á\ZKHHO DV ZHOO 7KH Á\ZKHHO LV WKH large, heavy wheel between the engine and transmission. This is the wheel that the starter pinion gear engages to crank the engine.

Once you’ve removed the starter motor, set your transmission to Neutral.

(Source: SopDem)

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER MARCH 26, 2022

AUTO WORLD

2021 Hyundai Santa-Fe hybrid 4door SUV Limited

Hyundai Nigeria Launches new High-tech Santa Fe, Elantra

H

yundai Nigeria Limited has launched both the new Santa Fe SUV and Elantra saloon into the nation’s market.

Compared with the models they replaced, the two vehicles come with improved styling, comfort, equipment and segment leading safety features.

Addressing newsmen at a media launch held yesterday at the Hyundai showroom, Victoria Island, Lagos, the company’s head of sales and Marketing, Mr. Gaurav Vashisht described the new Santa Fe as a product of continuous research into making Hyundai vehicles safer and more comfortable for customers.

Unlike its predecessor, the new Santa Fe provides ample seating for a family of seven and elevated the elegantly styled, high-technology SUV to another level, leading to a significant improvement in collision safety and maximizing vehicle stability on top of larger interior space.

“Mr. Vashisht stated, “Hyundai SANTA FE

has made a brilliant start to the new year, gaining wide recognition by top tier global automotive awards, winning top titles in Kelley Blue Book Best Buy Award, Large SUV of the Year at 2022 What Car? Award, and U.S. News 2022 Best Car for the Money, affirming the SANTA FE as an innovative choice among large SUVs in combining family convenience with adventurous unrivaled presence on the road.”

Being appraised as the best car for money, the SANTA FE has been successful in combining the quality and value measures as a modern day SUV. The New Santa Fe, coming to 2022 with a refreshed design from the exterior and interior, has also gained an array of novelty features and an enhanced dynamic driving experience, providing the balance of optimal performance and comfort, giving the driver the choice of driving modes that suite every road or driving situation, ensuring an unparalleled ride experience for both the driver of the different family members.

The Madd And Fadd Challenge

C

andy Lightner of Mothers against drunk driving (MADD) and Rochelle Sobel of The Association for Safe International Road Travel are two mothers whose contributions have shaped road safety culture globally. These two ORVW WKHLU ORYHG RQHV WKURXJK D URDG WUD΀F FUDVK Like every grieving mother, Lightner and Rochelle could have chosen to grief for life. They could equally have chosen to blame government failure or perhaps hate the driver that caused them pain. The Almighty God could even have been placed on judgment seat to explain why? Instead, they chose to stand and be counted.

I have paid credence to their sad stories and blazing trail globally. This piece is not about both mothers although the roads they have travelled to ensure QR PRWKHU VXͿHUV WKH VDPH WUDXPD DQG DQJXLVK prompted me to do this piece hoping that it will provoke the menfolk into active involvement in road safety advocacies meant to project a safer culture in our clime. Every parent’s role is to protect their children.

Rochelle and Lightner could not protect theirs, yet they choose to protect others. This I believe should be the commitment of every father not just to grief but to do something to save other children from the same tragedy. Like FADD, fathers against drunk driving committed to raising awareness, educating youths since 1985 with Robert Ybarra as founder.

Their mission is also to build relationship and form partnerships to reduce alcohol related crashes.

I don’t know if you are a father or mother. I also do not know if you have ever lost a loved RQH LQ DQ\ RI WKHVH DYRLGDEOH URDG WUD΀F FUDVKHV which are majorly traceable to human errors such as excessive speeding, tyre blowout, fatigue, dangerous driving, distraction as a result of use of phone while driving or other impaired driving behaviors, I have lost friends too. These losses did not consign me to a sadist but challenged my commitment to doing more to saving lives. , NQRZ WKDW PRWKHUV VXͿHU PRVW ZKHQ ORYHG ones are lost but I believe that men should play more active roles in safety rather than being docile. Men should take the drivers seats to help incite others to action. They should kick a few pebbles, turn a few

SAFE DRIVING with Jonas Agwu amnipr, mcipr,mprsa,arpa Assistant Corps Marshal Zonal Commanding Officer Federal Road Safety Corps. stones, and eventually have an avalanche of fathers who have chosen to say no to bad and irresponsible driving as well as drunk driving according to Candy Lightner.

I don’t know if you followed the sustained consultations between the Federal Road Safety Corps led by the Corps Marshal, Dr Boboye Oyeyemi with players LQ WKH WUDQVSRUW VHFWRU ÁHHW RSHUDWRUV , DP VXUH \RX are conversant with the reasons for these numerous consultations occasioned by the increasing spate of URDG WUD΀F FUDVKHV LQYROYLQJ ÁHHW RSHUDWRUV DPRQJ others and the need to checkmate bad practices and project best practices. I recall one of such meetings held ZLWK RQH RI WKH WRSPRVW ÁHHW RSHUDWRUV DV SDUW RI WKH Corps strategies to promote safety. In the meeting held, WKH )56& KHOPVPDQ ÀUHG ZLWK DOO DUVHQDOV ZKHQ KH expressed his worry over these trends and challenged the Management of the company and other operators to immediately put in place appropriate structures to safeguard lives and properties. He reminded them RI WKH &RUSV SURMHFWLRQ WR UHGXFH URDG WUD΀F FUDVKHV in line with the Decade of Action goals The irony is that one of the players blazed the trail in the use of speed limiters, and in the annual FHUWLÀFDWLRQ SURJUDPPH ZKLFK UHTXLUHV ÁHHW RSHUDWRUV to present their vehicles and drivers as well as open WKHLU SUHPLVHV IRU LQVSHFWLRQ DQG FHUWLÀFDWLRQ E\ FRSC. Since its inception in 2007, the Road Transport Standardizations Scheme (RTSS) has registered, inspected DQG FHUWLÀHG D VXEVWDQWLDO QXPEHU RI ÁHHW RSHUDWRUV LQ LWV DQQXDO ÁHHW FHUWLÀFDWLRQ H[HUFLVH 7KURXJK WKH VDPH VFKHPH D VXEVWDQWLDO QXPEHU RI ÁHHW RSHUDWRUV· safety managers have been trained as well as drivers RI ÁHHW RSHUDWRUV FHUWLÀHG LQ DGGLWLRQ WR FRQYR\ drivers of the Nigerian Governors who have also been trained.

35

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER MARCH 26, 2022

36

TRIBUTE

Tribute to My Father, Pa Olabode at 80 Omoleye Olabode

L

ife is all about how well you live and impact on the people around you. It therefore gives me great joy to see that despite the vicissitudes of life, that you are alive in the best of health that God your creator has granted on to you Despite the health challenges occasioned with this age, I am still grateful to God for sparing you till this moment without fear that many years ahead lies ahead for you.

As a father, I have known you all my life to be a very patient, grateful and a thankful man (thanksgiving). As a matter of fact, I particularly cherish your acceptability in the sphere of life right from your days’ at National Veterinary Research Institute (NVRI) to the market, church and other public spaces. In general, it has been stable, accepted and appreciated by people you come across both the young and old.

Interestingly, as a good footballer back then, you were very “hot” and popular in the Old Western Region, leading to your invitation to play for many clubs in the Western part of Nigeria and eventual call to be part of the Nigerian National team. You equally displayed these skills in soccer when you arrived at the NVRI in Vom , Plateau state. You also attain huge success in your civil service career by retiring as the Head of Works Department at NVRI without any blemish.

No doubt your discipline which has shaped us (your offspring’s) to become what we are today, cannot be forgotten.

Or how can one talk about our neatness

Gabriel Oladele Olabode

and promptness to church activities without falling back on what we learnt from you.

I celebrate you everyday and not just your birthday for many reasons which is why you remain eternal in my heart Your faithfulness to our late mother

in life and death, your sacrifice not to further your education due to paucity of funds for your late brother to be educated which gave him an opportunity to rise to the position of a renowned scientist and Provost is legendary. It was not easy indeed

I have not also forgotten the way you juggled and struggled to ensure that your children received the best of education. I know how you shower me with prayers each time I achieve any academic feat culminating in my recent award of PhD. To you, education is the key and you never failed to imbibe that spirit and the best habit of reading and avoiding the temptation of short cut to success in education and life. Daily, no matter the challenge you wake up to pray for your children and also retire for the day with prayers. Despite physical and other challenges, you have remained calm as a Choirmaster, church worker, counselor and a community leader worthy of emulation.

You may not believe it that I have been receiving many phone calls, letters and presents from friends, associates, family and institutions wishing you a wonderful and peaceful celebration of life at the age of 80 years. I have been bombarded by your former colleagues at the Veterinary Institute and neighbours in Plateau state, even their children still remind me of your love for all no matter the tribe, tongue and religion.

Indeed, as people say, it can only be the Almighty God. Such accolades, remembrance and rare privilege to others may not be enough, but you are always appreciative and grateful to all who accord you such honour no matter the circumstance you find yourself.

I must thank the Almighty God for giving you this opportunity to achieve this milestone and equally giving you the grace for this day and many more ahead in the land of the living. Ti Oluwa nile ati Ekunre!

37

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER MARCH 26, 2022

MARKET PLACE with Omolabake Fasogbon... 08155131874

L-R: Assistant General Manager, Streams Media and Communications, Kayode Olowoyeye; Assistant General Manager, SBI Media,Folahan Olulade; Group Managing Director, Rotimi Bankole; Group General Manager, Alison Oyome; Group Human Resources Manager, Oluwapemi Eze; Manager, Streams Media & Communications, Kehinde Oni and Finance Manager, Akeem Akande during the signing of partnership deal between SBI Media and Stagwell Global in Lagos....recently

L-R :Manager, Administration, Ardova Plc, Joy Nwosu; Brands Corporate Communications Officer, Anthonia Antia; Head Teacher, Ijora Nursery and Primary School, Mrs Aderonke Odunsanya; Graduate Trainee, Temiloluwa Adegbemile and Sales Support Manager, Olayemi Negbenose, during Ardova female employees’ visit to Ijora Nursery and Primary School in Lagos....recently

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38

SATURDAY MARCH 26, 2022 • T H I S D AY

39

T H I S D AY, T H E S AT U R D AY N E W S PA P E R •SATURDAY, MARCH 26, 2022

BACKPAGE CONTINUATION TIME TO RETIRE OUR YESTERDAY Nigeria and Africa see me as their role model.

I have created enduring opportunities for them and used my talents and material resources to reproduce multiple millionaires in farming, fashion, music, comedy, Media, events, hospitality, and entrepreneurship. I have personally given succour and palliatives to thousands of Nigerians in all parts of Nigeria without any discrimination whatsoever. Without access to government money or Constituency allowances, I have touched more Nigerians globally than our career politicians. I have given scholarships to hundreds of indigent students at home and abroad.

You may be wondering how I intend to defeat the Billionaire and powerful politicians in the two mainstream political parties with the reckless Naira and Dollar rain with which they are already flooding everywhere, I place my faith in God Almighty and in the long-suffering people of Nigeria as well as in my unblemished record of excellence, integrity, youthfulness, mental capacity, tolerance, courage, wisdom and global experience and exposure. It would be difficult to find anyone with more intimidating credentials amongst the members of the current political class.

I expect our party PDP to hearken to the cries of Nigerians for a new type of leadership and not a rehash and regurgitation of the same monied class or cabals who have nothing but calamitous corruption, monumental misery and unprecedented disaster to offer our unfortunate citizens.

The world has already left us way behind as a result of our addiction to narcoleptic leadership and the inability to exorcise the daemons of democracy. We can rid ourselves of the manacles and shackles of the depressive state and oppressive nature created by much vaunted purported political demigods and warlords.

By so doing, we will free ourselves from our current dire predicament and make brisk progress in nation building which is what all well-meaning Nigerians desire and deserve, desperately.

On the issue of zoning or no zoning, I believe that allowing all aspirants to buy their forms at N40 million suggests that the race is open to all, regardless of what part of Nigeria they come from. It is practically and legally impossible for a political party to disqualify an aspirant on account of zoning after collecting a whopping N40

million for services not rendered. I’m therefore happy to join this race and I’m expecting a “level playing ground for all aspirants” as repeatedly promised by our respectable and cerebral National Chairman, Dr Iyorchia Ayu. Rather than dissipate too much energy on fighting ourselves, our leaders should vent their humongous energies on presenting their credentials to the electorate and as a matter of urgency tell Nigerians how they plan to get them out of the cataclysmic mess we have found ourselves in. We must never forget that our Party and most of its present crop of leaders have been largely blamed for the morass that Nigeria finds itself. With great humility, I declare that I am the bridge-builder that our Party needs to regain the trust of our great people and nation.

Leadership is not always about politics and politicking but about managing people and resources, successfully.

I wish to humbly suggest to the formidable Southern leaders not to panic about Zoning at all. I love their resolve on insisting that power must shift to the South and the only assured way to achieve this is for all the Southern Regions to unite and reach out to their friends in other parts of the country. The unity of our country should be paramount, but it should be based on mutual respects. Our Governors must be commended for the way they have invested in keeping our Party alive and well at a time some of our leaders were nowhere to be found.

Those who truly love our Party should do nothing to suggest that they can and will bully or cow other members into submission.

On my part, I’m confident that I’m well positioned to galvanize a new class of young and first-time voters to support and vote for our Party. This is a tried and tested formula for winning elections in most climes. Nigeria is not different.

Indeed, it is this generation that we need most to participate in the process because it is for them that we seek to govern. It is a known fact that no political party in opposition can hope to win in elections against a ruling party in power by relying solely on its members for votes. I’m the only aspirant currently who originates from the two major zones of the South South and South West with extensive links in the South East and friends across the nation. No serious

political party can ignore those zones, and not do so at its own peril.

Let me quickly respond to the unfortunate suggestion that no Southern candidate can win the Presidential election. This is a total fallacy based on absolute distortion of facts of history and Mathematics.

In 1979, Alhaji Shehu Shagari of NPN polled 5,688,857 votes (42.37%) to defeat Chief Obafemi Awolowo of UPN at 4,916,551 (36.61%), Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe of NPP at 2,822,523 (21.02%) with a grand total of 13,427,93 votes. Thus, had the South stayed united, Shagari would not have been the President.

In 1983, with alleged widespread electoral fraud, Alhaji Shehu Shagari of NPN polled 12,047,648 (47.33%) to defeat Chief Obafemi Awolowo of UPN at 7,885,434 (30.98%), Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe of NPP at 3,534,633 (13.89%), Alhaji Hassan Yusuf of PRP at 1,037,481 (4.08%), Alhaji Waziri Ibrahim of GNPP at 640,128 (2.51%) Dr Tunji Braithwaite of NAP at 308,842 (1.21%) with a grand total of 25,454,166 votes.

In 1993, Chief MKO Abiola of SDP polled 8,341,309 (58.36%) to defeat Alhaji Bashir Tofa of NRC at 5,952,087 (41.64%) with a grand total of 14,293,396.

In 2003, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo of PDP polled 24,456,140 (61.94%) and defeated Major General Muhammadu Buhari of ANPP at 12,710,022 (32.19%).

In 2011, Dr Goodluck Jonathan of PDP at 22,495,187 (58.87%) defeated Major General Muhammadu Buhari of CPC at 12,214,853 (31.97%) and Mallam Nuhu Ribadu of ACN at 2,079,151 (5.44%). Both Northern candidates together did not obtain 50% of the votes.

It is obvious from the foregoing, that Southern Candidates have regularly won elections in Nigeria albeit with support from the North. President Buhari had lost twice to Southern candidates despite the seeming cult followership that he enjoyed in the North. It is clear to me that there is no PDP aspirant from the North today who enjoys half of Buhari’s fanatical support, yet Buhari was only able to win at his fourth attempt in 2015 because of the massive support from the South. We all know what happened in 2019 and why it sems that the North could go it alone.

With recent electoral reforms, it is clear to me that those manipulated and skewed figures will

not occur again.

The last elected president of PDP was a Southerner, Dr Goodluck Jonathan while the last contested PDP candidate was a Northerner, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, who I supported wholeheartedly and voluntarily. Also, the current serving President, General Muhammadu Buhari, against whom Alhaji Atiku contested, is of Northern Fulani descent. Therefore, the two main political parties fielded Northerners in 2019 and the heavens did not fall. The South supported the candidacy of one or the other Northerner, without protest or complaint. I see no reason that cannot be the case in respect of a decision by the two main Parties to field Southern candidates in the upcoming 2023 elections. Indeed, it is very right and sensible to do so in view of the serious agitations for a breakup of Nigeria into several nations.

I have made wide, extensive and positive visits and consultations to every Region of Nigeria and have felt the pulse of our nation. The general consensus is that our Party, PDP, should seize the opportunity of a fresh leader from the South to take over from the octogenarian Muhammadu Buhari and offer Nigeria a new lease of life and novel kind of leadership that fits the modern 21st century world in a digital, technological and knowledge driven generation. Age, integrity, competence, capacity, technology, exposure and cosmopolitanism are major attributes that a good leader must possess in the 21st century.

In these areas, I am more than fully qualified and stand tall amongst all those who are presently aspiring for the highest position of leadership in our land.

Some key notable issues facing Nigeria and Nigerians today range from disunity and distrust among the various ethnic groups in Nigeria to inequality, spiralling inflation, disruptions to academics through incessant strikes by ASUU, insecurity, less career and job opportunities, fewer considerations for women and youths in governance, poor medicare, escalated corruption and profligacy in government and dwindling economic prospects in the entire landscape. All these and more will be adequately addressed in our masterplan and policy document to be released soon.

I look forward to a very robust contest in the months ahead and your continued support.

Thank you all.

to enhance sports careers of our people.

We will reform the entire agricultural sector in line with global best practices. Areas of our comparative advantage in agriculture will receive the attention, incentives, and investment they deserve. We shall create Agric-Cities dedicated to modern, integrated agricultural practices, side-by-side with value chains, industrial cities and hubs that will utilise the produce from the Agric-Cities.

The government strategy will be to create an enabling environment and pursue policies that will attract both local and foreign investors to establish manufacturing plants in Enugu State.

We will seek beneficial public private partnerships in areas that will result in significant job creation and ripple positive economic effects in the interest of our people.

We will embark on massive industrialisation, setting up at least two industries per LGA within four years of our administration. At least two industries in each of the 17 local government in four years. We will activate a policy of One Local government One Product according to comparative advantages. We will create economic hubs such as ICT City, Film/Media City, Auto City, Knowledge City, and Health City, Sports City, and Agricultural Cities. Our ICT hub will run modern Call Centres, develop various applications, and generally incubate our state as a centre of excellence in science and technology.

Our Film/Media City will be a centre of film and music production. Our Knowledge City will be a training and research centre for contemporary governance.Our Auto City will produce quality vehicles. Our people will be encouraged to use such vehicles as private, commercial, and official vehicles. Our Health City will be a one-stop shop for a comprehensive healthcare. Our Sports City will cater for sports activities and enhance the growth of sports as a career in our state. Our Agric Cities will be dedicated to modern and integrated agricultural practices with recreational and health facilities to make them attractive to our farmers, especially the young ones.

We understand the place of power in the socio-economic transformation of Enugu State.

Therefore, we will work to ensure statewide electricity coverage. We will extend electricity supply to every possible home and restore vandalised lines. We will embark on large-scale renewable energy and provide mini grids for our remote communities and secure our electricity lines and infrastructure going forward We will embark on urban renewal and affordable housing for all. We will upgrade our rural communities to reverse the rural–urban migration that congest the cities.

MY PATHWAY TO A NEW ENUGU STATE the quality of infrastructure and human capital to deliver on a modern education. Our target at the primary and secondary school levels will be to merge schools and make them more sustainable, retrain teachers and rebuild schools to standards that we can be proud of. We will train and retrain our teachers and improve their welfare to attract the best brains to the Enugu State educational system.

Our Higher institutions will be repositioned to produce better and more employable graduates that meet the 21st Century needs of our society.

We will welcome private sector investment in our higher institutions to improve and maintain satisfactory standard, produce quality graduates, and maintain a well-trained and well-paid lecturers. The Institute of Management and Technology (IMT), Enugu will be upgraded to a degree-awarding institution that will deliver an Ivy League university education.

Our scholarship system will be reformed to become a merit-based scholarship system, ensuring that no child is denied access to quality education on financial grounds.

We are also aware that public and private sectors of today require relevant ICT and digital technology knowledge for efficiency. We will create a well-resourced Knowledge City where we will prepare our future leaders, train and retrain civil servants and policymakers. Our Knowledge City will also double as research ground for administrative, management, economic and scientific policies and programmes.

We will run an inclusive youth and genderfriendly government that will mainstream and empower our young men and women economically and politically.

We believe that we need to encourage the youth and women in governance. Our Executive, Legislative, and Judicial arms of government will, as a matter of deliberate policy, be sufficiently populated with young men and women with knowledge and focus. Their future is now.

Security and public safety will be a top priority of our government. We shall create a state-funded and controlled security system that will compliment the federal security agencies.

Security and Public Safety coordination Centre will be created to manage all issues of security and public safety in Enugu State. They will also serve as interface with the Federal security agencies. Our community security outfits will be strengthened, retrained and refocused to address emerging challenges. As the gateway state between the South East and the Northern Nigeria, we will implement an innovative boarder security plan. Every individual and businesses in Enugu State will be properly documented in Enugu State Identification Database, ESID, to

enable us to fight crime, and protect lives and properties with technology. Our plan is to make Enugu the safest state in Nigeria, one that will be attractive to investors and visitors.

Our dream healthcare system is a holistic, interconnected, world-class system. The Primary, Secondary and Tertiary health system will be seamlessly connected and equipped for optimum delivery of quality and affordable healthcare services. Every local government and every community will have an efficient healthcare facility. We will partner with the private sector to create world-class, yet affordable, medical and diagnostic centres. Our Healthcare City will attract the best and top-line medical experts from around the world. The government and her partners will invest in the healthcare infrastructure such as buildings, equipment, roads, water, ICT infrastructure, ambulances and basic management staff and invite the private sector healthcare professionals to lease spaces and run their practices in line with approved guidelines. We hope to see medical tourism inflow into Enugu State.

We will have a deliberate policy to constructively engage the Federal Government and its agencies for opportunities for our people. We will create a Unit in the Governor’s Office for this purpose.

We will seek out opportunities within and outside Nigeria and push our people into them as our ambassadors. We will engage other state governments in the country to accommodate Enugu State indigenes in their various states in their government and in the economy of their respective states. We will, through this policy, increase the number of Enugu State people as Chief Executive Officers of Federal Government parastatals and enthrone more of our people in the headship of various security agencies, etc.

The unemployment rate in Nigeria is most depressing and is largely accountable for the insecurity and restiveness in the region. Therefore, if elected, job creation will be at the heart of our government ensure that we reduce unemployment by 70 per cent in four years. We shall achieve this through Tourism, Sports, Agricultural revolution, ICT, and Industrialisation.

We shall harness and expand the tourism potentials of Enugu State. The hospitality industry will be enhanced to cater to the expected influx of tourists. We will set up a Film City to harness the potentials of our people in the film, music, and related talents enterprises. We will institute festivals and trade fairs that will bring the world to Enugu as well as construct state-of-the-art convention centres and sports stadia in different parts of the state that will make Enugu a preferred destination for group and international events.

We will invest in sports and sports development

•Ekweremadu is a former Deputy President of the Senate

AFTER MONTHS OF RANCOUR, APC CONVENES TO ENDORSE ABDULLAHI ADAMU AS CHAIRMAN Continued from page 5

Remarks by the Vice-President follow between 5:35 and 5:40p.m, while Special Remarks by President Buhari will be between 5:40 and 5:55p.m After the welcome address by the CECPC Chairman, there will be a presentation of two motions.

These are the motion for the approval of Constitution as amended and the motion for the ratification of all activities carried out by CECPC. Elections into Zonal and National Offices of the APC will then follow. Then, there will be the declaration of results and swearing in of the newly elected executives. The newly elected National Chairman is expected to make an acceptance speech.

Altogether, 21 NWC positions and 33 non-NWC positions are expected to be filled today.

APC Governors, Ministers Present Scorecards Governors and Ministers of the ruling APC yesterday in Abuja presented a seven years’ scorecard to the party, to back their performance status over the former ruling PDP as they march towards 2023 campaigns.

The scorecard was presented at the party's Pre-Convention Conference with the theme: Consolidating Democratic Change: Scorecard, Impact and the Road Ahead at Shehu Musa Yar'Adua Centre, Abuja.

At the event, governors and serving ministers on the platform of the APC took their time to chronicle the events leading to the formation of the party and the successes, challenges, and achievements made by the party, both at the state and national levels in the last seven years.

Present at the event were: Governors Atiku Bagudu of Kebbi State, Babagana Zulum of Borno, Fayemi Kayode of Ekiti, Minister of Finance, Zainab Ahmed, Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola Minister of Finance, Zainab Ahmed, said the APC government social investment programme was yielding good results as Nigeria had emerged the nation with the fastest growing social investment programme in the world.

Zainab also disclosed that Nigeria's economy was now fully diversified due to different economic intervention strategies introduced by the Buhari-led APC government.

Saturday, March 26, 2022

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Price: N250

MISSILE

Useni on Terrorists “What is happening now is that even some state governors give money to bandits to stop attacks. So, you are encouraging them.

When the money finishes, they come back again” –A former minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Lieutenant General Jeremiah Useni (retd), accusing some state governors of pampering terrorists.

PENDULUM DELE MOMODU

dele.momodu@thisdaylive.com

Time to Retire Our Yesterday F

ellow Nigerians, yesterday, March 25, 2022, I picked up the letter of intent and nomination form to contest the Primaries for the 2023 Presidential election on the platform of our great party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

As you all know, Ladies and Gentlemen, N40 million is a lot of money in any currency but it is the big sacrifice we must make for the sake of this generation and generations unborn in our great country. Nigeria has been effectively hijacked by a political class that cares only about itself and almost nothing about unity, development and progress of the nation and the good people of our dear beloved country.I want to thank all the kind-hearted Nigerians who contributed every kobo raised so far for this laudable project. I am particularly grateful to the young Nigerians who donated from N500 to N20,000 after my appeal on social media. I am deeply touched by their act of uncommon generosity, especially because I know of their tough financial situations. It is gratifying and humbling for me that from the very little that they possess, Nigeria comes first.

God will bless them.

I’m proud to stand resolutely to challenge those who feel Nigeria and Nigerians can be bought or bribed by the highest bidder. The time for the rejection of such a notion is now. Nigerians will no longer sell their soul for 20 pieces of silver, and I make bold to say that they are prepared to make this statement and are relying on the

The son of the South South and South West, Chief Dele Momodu with The Oba of Benin Ewuare II political parties for the opportunity to demonstrate that this is the case, by giving to them worthy candidates rather than a recycling of the failed so-called political juggernauts.

Like many Nigerians, I’m vehemently opposed to ethnic jingoists who see where they come from as the only prerequisite qualification for

aspiring to lead Nigeria, no matter how ugly and inglorious their past had been.

I wish to appeal to all men and women of good conscience to join me in this movement to put a stop to the rascality of those who feel Nigerians are permanently helpless and hopeless and that we can be Lorded upon simply because

we have chosen to be silent. We will no longer acquiesce in this state of affairs. I modestly say that through our collective efforts, the silent and voiceless majority now have a voice and representative in me.

I humbly come into this political contest with a pedigree of integrity, reputation, solid education, tolerance, business acumen, sharp vision and competence. I possess everything it takes to win the 2023 Presidential election on behalf of my Party, PDP, and I will be greatly honoured to get the ticket and support of my esteemed party for this purpose.

The time has come for my party, PDP to take advantage of this unique opportunity to present an uncommon candidate who’s tailor made for this moment and purpose. I’m fresh and free from the usual encumbrances associated with most of our career politicians.

Despite not being in government or power, my business and I have been one of the biggest brands out of Africa in the last three decades. I have the capacity to reunite Nigeria instantly.

I am automatically recognised and warmly welcomed and received wherever I go by the generality of our people whether elites, middle class or the common man.

Without being immodest or boastful, I am glad to profess that I have verifiably touched lives in every part of Nigeria. The youths of Continued on page 39

IKEEKWEREMADU My Pathway to a New Enugu State E GUEST COLUMNIST

nugu State gave me huge opportunities to serve as pioneer Council Chairman of Aninri Local Government Area, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Secretary to the State Government, five-term Senator, three-term Deputy President of the Senate, Deputy Speaker and Speaker of ECOWAS Parliament. I have served on a number of important committees and in several global positions.

In the course of this journey, I have met world leaders, business leaders, and made friends in both the private and public sectors of the national and global economies. I have had the opportunity to understand how states and nations are transformed. A good example is a city like Dubai, the UAE, which was a desert, but has now become the world most digitalised city and a global investment hub. I have an insight into the economic transformation taking place in Rwanda and Ghana.

As a Senator, I worked hard to put forward necessary bills and motions on constitutional amendments, security, education, economy, health and electoral reform, that have impacted and are still impacting positively on the well-being of our people. I have initiated and completed many life-changing projects in our communities, beyond my constituency, in the very important

areas of water, road, educational infrastructure, health, power, and many more.

I always wish I could do more. I have the will, but the means are limited. I am limited to what I could mobilise as a legislator in developmental projects and programmes. At this point, therefore, I believe it is time to focus on Enugu State and Enugu people without whom I would not be who and what I am today. The governorship of Enugu State will offer me a good platform to serve our dear state more and better.

If elected Governor, I will utilise all the experience, friendship, partnership, and global contact acquired over the years to transform Enugu State to a model state. I will implement this vision through these agenda.

First on our agenda is good governance. We will restore our people’s faith in the government through open door government, delivering on our manifesto and promises to the people. We will transform our civil service, judiciary, and parliament, making them technology-driven. We will improve the welfare, efficiency, and respectability of our public service; fight corruption in a creative and effective manner; enthrone justice, equity and liberty to all citizens and residents of Enugu State; ensure that government services will be available 24/7 through a well-designed e-government;

and ensure that our revenue collection is fair, reliable and devoid of leaks and waste. Our revenues will be spent in the best interest of the people. We will consult periodically with our stakeholders – religious leaders, political leaders, and the business community, etc. We will end practices that require citizens to induce anyone before receiving government services, employment, benefits or opportunities. We pledge not to interfere with local government funds.

We look forward to running a government that sees all citizens as equals before the Law. We will restore the hope of the people in the judiciary as the last hope of the common man and create an atmosphere of respectability for judicial officers. Furthermore, we will reposition the Enugu State Judiciary in terms of human capital, infrastructure, and welfare. Pensions and other benefits of judicial officers in Enugu State will be prioritised. We will initiate post-service housing for not only Enugu State judicial officers, but also federal judicial officers of Enugu State origin. We will provide an estate specifically for them; and this will essentially keep them away from political influence and encourage networking among their colleagues. We will emphasise training and retraining to sustain quality performance.

We appreciate the hardship that our people

have had to live with over the years due to perennial problem of water scarcity in Enugu.

But we are poised to restore pipe borne water to ensure that this becomes a thing of the past. We will build dams and rehabilitate existing water sources, pipelines.

We consider every good road as an economic corridor and a pathway to new opportunities.

Consequently, I devoted ample part of my years in the Senate to attracting new roads and rehabilitating existing ones across the three senatorial zones of the Enugu State and beyond. We will transform every road leading in and out of Enugu State into a well-lit super highways and build a ringroad that will connect all the 17 LGAs. We will embark on massive construction of rural roads and reconstruction of urban roads. The Enugu State Ministry of Works and its Departments and Agencies will be repositioned and empowered with the resources to ensure their effectiveness.

We understand the challenge posed by resource scarcity, but we have the social capital to attract local and foreign funding as well as the integrity to keep our words.

There are already many educational institutions in Enugu State. Our focus will be on improving Continued on page 39

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