SATURDAY 17TH APRIL 2021

Babangida Aliyu: How 19 Northern Govs Met, Agreed to Stop Jonathan in 2015 Laleye Dipo The former governor of Niger State, Dr. Muazu Babangida Aliyu yesterday painted a detailed picture of the role played by all the governors of the 19 northern states, including those of the then

ruling Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in denying former President Goodluck Jonathan a second term in 2015.

Babangida Aliyu, in a statement defending his role in the ouster of Jonathan, following persistent attack on him by the Niger State

chapter of the PDP for working against the party’s presidential candidate in the election, said few months to the 2015 Presidential election, the PDP governors joined the other northern governors at a meeting in Abuja, and unanimously resolved not

to allow Jonathan win the election.

Aliyu, who was the Chairman, Northern Governors Forum then, said the 19 northern governors concurred that Jonathan had violated the terms of an agreement he reached with the party

and the northern governors not to run for second term in 2015.

The ex-governor, in the statement titled, "Why We Opposed Jonathan's Second Term Bid", said: "Following the sudden passage of President Umaru Musa Yar'Adua on

May 5th, 2010, the leadership of the then governing Peoples Democratic Party, along with the state governors under the flagship of the party, had series of meetings on the presidency and the future of our great Continued on page 5

Lagos Rakes in N418bn IGR in 2020 Despite COVID-19… Page 5 Saturday 17 April, 2021 Vol 26. No 9505

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Currency Printing: Progressive Governors Disown Obaseki Say Edo gov’s assertion unfortunate, did not reflect the true position of things Charles Ajunwa The Progressive Governors’ Forum (PGF) yesterday debunked claims by Governor

Godwin Obaseki of Edo State that the federal government printed between N50 billion - N60 billion to bridge the shortfall in the distribution

of federation revenues to the three tiers of government in March 2021, saying that the claims did not reflect the true position of things.

The Forum, in a statement signed by its Chairman, Governor Abubakar Atiku Bagudu of Kebbi State, said at first, the impression it

got was that it was an off the cuff remark made in a private meeting, but “we were however shocked to see yet another response from our

colleague to the rebuttal by the HM Finance insisting that the March 2021 FAAC was Continued on page 5

After 37 Days in Captivity, Bandits Issue Death Threats to 29 Afaka Students Insist on N300 million ransom, parents beg El-rufai to negotiate John Shiklam in Kaduna Bandits yesterday threatened to kill the remaining 29 abducted students of the Federal College of Forestry Mechanisation, Afaka, Kaduna, still in their custody, following the refusal of the Kaduna State Government to meet their demand of N300 million ransom.

Of the 39 abducted from the school on March 11, 10 were freed early this month following what sources said was payment of ransom by some parents.

The Kaduna State Government insists that it would not negotiate with the bandits, while the parents are begging Governor Nasir El-rufai to negotiate with the outlaws.

At a press conference in Kaduna yesterday, the spokesman of the parents, Friday Sanni confirmed receiving threats via telephone Continued on page 5

DELTA STATE ON THE MOVE...

L-R: The Speaker, Delta House of Assembly, Sheriff Oborevwori; Delta State Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa; Governor Darius Ishiaku of Taraba State; Senator Shuaibu Lau (Taraba North) and HRM, Michael Nbanefo, the Ugoani of Okpanam , during the inauguration of dualised Okpanam Road in Asaba, Delta State…yesterday

Gunmen Invade Ekiti Palace, Kidnap Monarch…Page 6

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Lagos Rakes in N418bn IGR in 2020 Despite COVID-19 Higher than 28 states combined Yobe is lowest with N7bn James Emejo ÓØ ÌßÔË Despite the negative impact of COVID-19 on the Nigerian economy and the resultant lockdown for months, Lagos State still raked in N418.99 billion as Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) in 2020.

This 2020 IGR is higher than the N398.73 billion recorded by the state in 2019, according to figures released yesterday by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).

The Lagos IGR also amounted to 32.08 per cent of the N1.31 trillion raked in last year by all the 36 states of the federation, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Further investigation revealed

that the Lagos 2020 IGR is higher than 28 other states combined.

The states are Anambra, Edo, Ondo, Enugu, Osun, Kwara, Plateau, Zamfara, Kogi, Imo, Cross River, Abia, Kebbi and Ebonyi.

Others are Bauchi, Nasarawa, Bayelsa, Sokoto, Borno, Katsina, Niger, Benue, Ekiti, Jigawa, Gombe, Adamawa, Taraba, and Yobe.

The 28 states recorded a total of N416.02 billion, a figure lower than N418.98 billion generated in Lagos only.

Lagos, just like other states, was on lockdown for several months last year due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Businesses were shut, recreation centres were closed and

movement across the state restricted in a bid to curb the spread of the virus.

Rivers is the closest state to Lagos in 2020 with N117.19 billion or 8.97 per cent of total IGR but lower than the N140.39 billion posted in 2019.

The FCT emerged third with N92.06 billion or 7.05 per cent of total IGR for 2020, higher than the N74.56 billion it generated in the preceding year.

Delta was next with N59.73 billion or 4.57 per cent of IGR contributions by states compared to N64.67 billion in 2019.

According to the IGR at state levels for Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2020, which was posted on the NBS website yesterday, Yobe recorded the least IGR of

N7.78 billion or 0.60 per cent of the total figure.

The statistical agency further pointed out that the N1.31 trillion generated by the 36 states and FCT in 2020, represented a decline of about N25.66 billion compared to the N1.33 trillion recorded in 2019.

This also indicated a negative growth of 1.93 per cent year on year, the NBS added.

This further explains the crippling impact of the pandemic on states' revenue drive as well as on other economic sectors.

Other states' contributions included Kaduna N50.76 billion or 3.89 per cent; Ogun N50.74 billion or 3.89 per cent; Oyo N38.04 billion or 2.91 per cent; Kano N31.81 billion or 2.44 per

cent; Akwa Ibom N30.69 billion or 2.35 per cent; Anambra N28.01 billion or 2.14 per cent and Edo N27.18 billion or 2.08 billion.

Ondo recorded N24.85 billion or 1.90 per cent; Enugu N23.65 billion or 1.81 per cent; Osun N19.67 billion or 1.51 per cent; Kwara N19.60 billion or 1.50 per cent; Plateau N19.12 billion or 1.46 billion and Zamfara N18.50 billion or 1.42 per cent.

Kogi’s is N17.36 billion or 1.33 per cent; Imo N17.08 billion or 1.31 per cent; Cross River N16.18 billion or 1.24 per cent; Abia N14.37 billion or 1.10 per cent; Kebbi N13.78 billion or 1.05 per cent; Ebonyi N13.59 billion or 1.04 per cent; Bauchi N12.50 billion or 0.96 per cent; Nasarawa N12.48 billion or 0.96

per cent; Bayelsa N12.18 billion or 0.93 per cent; Sokoto N11.80 billion or 0.90 per cent; Borno N11.58 billion or 0.89 per cent; and Katsina N11.40 billion or 0.87 per cent.

Niger raked in N10.52 billion or 0.81 per cent; Benue N10.46 billion or 0.80 per cent; Ekiti N8.72 billion or 0.67 per cent; Jigawa N8.67 billion or 0.66 per cent; Gombe N8.54 billion or 0.65 per cent; Adamawa N8.33 billion or 0.64 per cent and Taraba N8.11 billion or 0.62 per cent.

Similarly, in Q4 2020, states and FCT IGR figure dropped to N335.25 billion compared to N338.57 billion recorded in Q3, representing a negative growth of 0.98 per cent quarter on quarter, the NBS further noted.

bandits on behalf of the state government would be arrested and prosecuted.

Aruwan clarified, saying: “Contrary to the mischief in some sections of the media, the bond between the Governor of Kaduna State, Malam Nasir El-Rufai and the parents of the abducted students of Federal College of Forestry Mechanisation, and other citizens in captivity, is deep empathy amidst spirited efforts to secure them.

“The governor will continue to work hard until banditry is contained. Some section of the media has been reporting purported threat by the governor to prosecute parents of the

abducted students, which is simply false and deeply mischievous.

“The government statement in question was a warning to “impostors who have been presenting themselves as government-appointed emissaries to negotiate with bandits across the state and has nothing to do with the parents or relatives of the abducted students or any other person in captivity.”

He said the state government would not join issues with the parents “whose pain is understandable, and with whom we share the common goal of the return of all the abducted students.”

The former governor said the 19 governors, including those of the PDP did not oppose Jonathan but opposed his insistence on second term in office because the North would have lost out completely.

He said: "It would have been morally wrong for Jonathan to contest for and win the 2015

presidential election having completed the Umaru Yar'Adua's tenure as President, held the same office as President for four years and then contest for the same office for another four years.

"It is wrong for anyone to erroneously say that I, Dr. Mu'azu Babangida Aliyu had opposed Goodluck."

Buhari administration.”

It explains further: “For example, as at June 2015, 27 states could not pay salaries but the Federal Government provided support to states to enable them to pay salaries and pensions. The federal government equally refunded the longstanding claim by states on deductions made in 2006, wrongly, to pay the Paris Club debt. Furthermore, states were refunded various amounts for roads and other projects undertaken on behalf of the Federal Government.

“In addition to the above, the Central Bank of Nigeria designed and implemented various interventions which helped in stimulating economic activity in all the states, and contributed to the country’s quick emergence from recession in 2016 and 2021.

Such interventions include the Anchor Borrowers Programme, Accelarated Agriculture Development Scheme, Small and medium scale enterprises support scheme as well as expansion of pre-existing Programme such as Commercial Agriculture Credit.

“The world economy had been challenged in the last few years with fiscal and monetary authorities responding in

various ways to support their respective economies. In all situations the Central Banks had responded to ease Credit and in a number of cases where interest rates were near zero, quantitative easing measures were undertaken to expand money supply to the economy.

“Given the constraints faced by the Nigerian economy, the Central Bank of Nigeria had responded commendably well while still working hard on exchange and interest rates.

We urge the Governor, management and staff not be distracted. Equally we are grateful to President Muhammadu Buhari and his team for the support and partnership extended to all the federating units. In addition to occasional meetings with Mr. President, the National Economic Council, chaired by the Vice President, HE Prof Yemi Osinbajo, meets every month and all issues are discussed transparently and exhaustively.

“It would therefore be helpful to admonish ourselves as leaders to work collaboratively in tackling these challenges rather than resort to cheap and demagogic point scoring in our quest to rescue the economy.”

AFTER 37 DAYS IN CAPTIVITY, BANDITS ISSUE DEATH THREATS TO 29 AFAKA STUDENTS from the bandits to kill the remaining 29 abductees who have now spent 37 days in the dungeon of the criminals.

“We are calling on Nigerians, non-governmental organisations, charity organisations and donors to come to our aid in donating to rescue our children. We don’t know what is happening to them.

“The bandits have threatened to kill our children if we play with them. The other time, they said they will marry the female and kill the men and that a time will come when even if we bring the money, the money will not be useful.”

He said since government claimed security agents rescued

the two batches of 10 students earlier released, they should do something about the remaining students.

Sanni added: “The government has said any parent who negotiates with the bandits will be prosecuted but most of the parents are already arrested emotionally, our children today are faced with AK 47 guns on them. The faith of our children is what we don’t know; they have spent 36 days without clothing, food, clean drinking water or bathing.”

He said the parents would continue to find a way of reaching out to the bandits.

Sanni said: “We will continue

to protest, no matter the number of security forces. The highest is death and we are ready to sacrifice that for our children who have promising futures.”

Sources among the parents said the bandits were earlier given N17 million for the release of all the 39 students following negotiations, “but after they collected the money, they changed their mind, saying it was too small and decided to release only 10 of the students.”

The source said negotiations with the bandits by parents were still going on.

In a statement after the briefing by the parents, the Kaduna State Commissioner for Internal

Security and Home Affairs, Samuel Aruwan, said government would not succumb to “emotional blackmail” regarding the fate of the abducted students.

“The Governor will continue to work hard until banditry is contained, without succumbing to emotional blackmail and gradual politicisation of the unfortunate situation,” Aruwan said.

The Commissioner denied reports that Governor El-Rufai threatened to prosecute parents of the abductees for negotiating with the bandits.

The governor had vowed that he would not negotiate nor pay ransom to bandits and that anyone that negotiates with

BABANGIDA ALIYU: HOW 19 NORTHERN GOVS MET, AGREED TO STOP JONATHAN IN 2015 party.

"All the governors in the North under the PDP supported the then Vice President Goodluck Jonathan to complete the remaining years of Yar'Adua's tenure and to contest the next presidential election as a sole candidate of our great party.

"However, midway, President

Goodluck Jonathan insisted on running for the office in 2015 against the grain of our earlier agreement."

"Since this was against the grain of our earlier agreement in the party, and which we, the governors in the North felt the North would have been shortchanged if Jonathan had

succeeded, we rose stoutly to insist on the agreement we all had.

"On that premise, we opposed Jonathan. As Chairman of the 19 Northern State Governors Forum, the task was on my shoulders to voice out the position of the North which stood disadvantaged by the demise of

Alhaji Musa Yar'Adua and the insistence that Jonathan should run for the office of president in 2015.

"We acted in good spirit and argued our points based on principle and on the subsisting agreement we had with Goodluck Jonathan. That agreement was written and accepted by all.”

CURRENCY PRINTING: PROGRESSIVE GOVERNORS DISOWN OBASEKI augmented via the printing of money.

The PGF states: “Given the significance of the statement from a sitting governor and the possible negative impact it has brought to the credibility of both the federal and State government in managing government finances, the Forum is obliged to put a statement out.

“To set the records clear and to the best of our knowledge, the total distributable statutory revenue for the month of March 2021 was N596.94 billion. Due to the shortfall in gross statutory revenues

by N43.34 billion compared to the previous month, an augmentation was made in the sum of N8.65 billion from the Forex Equalization Fund Account, which brought the total distributable revenue to N605.59 billion.

“Federation revenues distributed monthly primarily consist of mineral revenues from the sale of oil and gas, as well as non-mineral revenues from customs and excise duties, company income tax, and value added tax.”

The Progressive Governors admits that there are periods when the country experiences significant fiscal shocks in

federation revenues, but says the shocks are offset by other savings serviced from the federation account, including distributions from the domestic excess crude proceeds and the foreign excess crude savings account.

“These payments started since 2008 when the country first experienced fiscal shocks from the fallouts of the global financial crisis of 2008 – 2009.

As a trained Economist who has been a Governor since 2016, Mr. Obaseki is aware of all the support states have received from President Buhari in coping with the shocks that have resulted from the CoviD 19 pandemic and resulting economic recession.

“Not only have we received budget support, bail out support to meet salary obligations and infrastructure refunds to all states, this was implemented in the overall public interest without discrimination on the basis of party affiliation. This is why it's unfortunate and disingenuous to allege preferential treatment of APC states when PDP governed states are even greater beneficiaries of all the support,” said the PGF. It said there was nothing exceptional in this current

review of economic orthodoxy because “almost every Central Bank in the world is taking steps to support their government in coping with the effect of Covid 19 pandemic on the national economy. This has become the norm rather than the exception as all countries grapple with the deleterious effect of economic recession.”

The PGF continues: “This unfortunate and inaccurate assertion by Governor Obaseki becomes even more worrisome when juxtaposed with the official statement released after the meeting of PDP Governors last week, calling for restructuring and greater devolution of powers to the States. It would appear that matters that require the collective resolve of all leaders are now being turned into purely partisan, point scoring claims.

“Every discerning Nigerian knows that the APC's position on restructuring and devolution is clearly articulated and accurately captured in the report of Governor Nasir el-Rufai's committee on True Federalism. And the APC Governors Forum has since made representation to NASS in furtherance of that position. However,

since there are constitutional boundaries, we cannot usurp the responsibilities of the NASS on constitutional reform process, having made our position known.

“These are challenging times for the country. The COVID-19 pandemic coupled with the recent macroeconomic challenges, has had a significant impact on government finances, however, both the federal and state governments are working assiduously to confront the challenge through greater collaboration to increase independent government revenues, rationalize nonessential spending and improve the efficiency of public spending.

“Indeed, we are beginning to see the positive impact of these initiatives given the country's exit from recession in the first quarter of 2021.”

The PGF said while the right to criticize and hold alternative views is acknowledged, “all state governments have been equitably treated by both the Federal Government and national institutions, particularly the CBN. The support include, among others, bailouts, special interventions and various refunds that were owed to states prior to the

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NEWS

News Editor Ahamefula Ogbu 08116759810 (sms only) Email ahamefula.ogbu@thisdaylive.com

Scores of ISWAP Fighters Killed in Week-long Air, Ground Offensive in Damasak, Borno Three soldiers killed; Zulum says 21 killed, 18 injured Kingsley Nwezeh ÓØ ÌßÔË ËØÎ Michael Olugbode ÓØ ËÓÎßÑßÜÓ

Air and ground offensive launched by the military in the past one week decimated scores of fighters of the Islamic State for West African Province (ISWAP) in Damasak, Borno State while three soldiers fell in the attack.

However, Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum, said 18 persons lost their lives in the attack on Damasak by terrorists while 21 others, who were injured, were receiving treatment in various hospitals.

A Nigerian Army statement said a senior Commander of ISWAP, Bukar Gana Fitchmeram (a.k.a Abu Aisha), and scores of his fighters who were on revenge mission at Damasak, fell to the

fire power of Nigerian troops on Thursday.

It said the terrorist and his fighters met their waterloo as they made a come-back following the neutralisation of 12 high value ISWAP commanders in Mobbar Local Government Area of Borno State in a week-long air and ground operations by the Nigerian military.

“In a well-coordinated ground bombardments and aerial strikes by the Nigerian military on various locations in the North-east, the terrorists who were denied any sanctuary or respite desperately conducted two separate failed attacks on Gajiram and Damasak,” it said.

The war update issued by the Director, Army Public Relations, Brigadier-General Mohammed

Yerima, said the deadly air strikes conducted on Tudun Wulgo, Zari and Tumbun Alhaji, Kusuma, Sigir in Ngala and Arijallamari, in Abadam, Marte and Ngala Local government Areas, led to the killing of top ISWAP leaders.

It listed the commanders that perished in the airstrikes to include Mohammad Fulloja, Ameer Mallam Bello, Ba’a kaka Tunkushe, Abu Muktar Al -Ansari, Ameer Abba Kaka, Abu Huzaifa, Ameer Modu Kwayem, while Goni Mustapha who was the Chief Imam of the ISWAP escaped with bullet wounds.

It said troops’ artillery bombardment and air strikes also resulted in the elimination of

two top ISWAP leaders notably Abu-Rabi and Muhammed Likita as well as scores of their troops and body guards around the axis of Kusuma, Sigir in Ngala and Arijallamari in Abadam local government areas.

The terrorists’ storage facilities that housed weapons used to conduct several attacks were also targeted and destroyed in the air raid by the Air Component of Operation Lafiya Dole.

It stated further that “on the night of Saturday, April 10, three other terrorist Commanders including Ameer Umar, Abu Ubaida and Abu Salim were ambushed and killed by troops around Wulgo/Logomani axis

close to Cameroon borders while attempting to attack locals and rustle their cows.

“The devastating air strikes and artillery bombardment on the ISWAP camps had pushed the surviving elements to conduct desperate attacks and looting missions for food and drugs for their wounded colleagues.”

According to the update, on April 11, the Nigerian military bombardments eliminated scores of ISWAP/Boko Haram terrorists on five gun trucks in Damasak.

The update affirmed that some of the terrorists were hit close to the perimeter fencing, while others were neutralised while attempting to loot food

items in a store belonging to the United Nations as well as drugs and ambulance.

However, three soldiers and some civilians lost their lives while properties were burnt in the town.

“Some of the terrorists still got access to the town burning and looting items before vacating the area. It is also noteworthy that Damasak has been attacked several times and failed,” it said, while noting that “troops’ fighting spirit remains very high in spite of the nefarious activities of some local informants who often tip the Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists on troops’ movements and positions,” he said.

In Search of Big Oil cash, FG Tinkers with Oil Reform Bill Festus Akanbi áÓÞÒ ËÑÏØÍã report

Fresh facts emerged yesterday that the federal government may have tinkered with the sweeping oil reform bill in a desperate attempt to attract much-needed investment to the Nigerian oil industry, a report by Reuters said.

The proposed changes signal a shift by the federal government, which the agency report claimed was confirmed by four people closely involved with the legislation.

The measure is said to have showed the impact of an increasingly competitive environment in the energy business after 2020’s global oil price collapse and an expected shift to renewables.

According to the report, key changes to the bill would lower the royalties for new production from deep water oilfields to 5% from 7.5% and boost the production level that triggers higher royalties from 15,000 barrels per day (bpd) to 50,000 bpd.

For onshore and shallow water oilfields, it would reduce the hydrocarbon tax to 30% for converted leases, down from 42.5% in the original bill.

The report added that the changes would also guarantee that state oil company, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC’s) assets and liabilities would transfer to a limited liability corporation.

This will help oil companies to

collect money owed by NNPC. In his response, Special Assistant on Media to the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Mr. Garba Deen Muhammad, told THISDAY he didn’t know the changes being considered by the national assembly that is still holding unto the document.

He said, “As you know, the document is now before the NASS. They are entitled to conduct public hearing and meet with stakeholders, including of course the IOCs. Nigerians expect the NASS to produce a final document that captures and addresses the opinions and concerns of all stakeholders. I have no idea what changes they have made or are planning to make. But I trust the NASS to be patriotic and fair.”

Spokesperson for the NNPC, Dr. Kennie Obateru did not pick his calls when THISDAY tried to seek his views while WhatsApp and sms messages to his phone were not acknowledged.”

“In the letter seen by Reuters, oil industry executives pushed for more changes, particularly around gas development and “fiscal term stability” which provides assurance that there will not be any unexpected changes in the royalties and tax regime.

“The executives said that “terms are not sufficiently competitive to stimulate the desired new investments.”

Oil companies have noted that

COVID-19: 67 New Cases Recorded Nigeria recorded 67 new cases of COVID-19 yesterday, taking the number of confirmed cases to 164,147 with 154,304 discharged and 2061 deaths.

INCREASING OUR STAKE. . .

L-R: Patrick Habamenshi of the AfDB; Senior Special Adviser to the AfDB President, Prof. Oyebanji Oyeyinka; Acting AfDB Vice President, Toda Atsuko; Vice President Yemi Osinbajo; Minister of Agriculture, Mohammed Sabo; Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Niyi Adebayo; and Special Adviser to the President on Economic Matters, Yemi Dipeolu, when Osinbajo received a mission debrief from AFDB officials…yesterday.

Currency Printing: PDP Demands Finance Minister’s Sack

Gunmen Invade Ekiti Palace, Kidnap Monarch

Chuks Okocha ÓØ ÌßÔË

Victor Ogunje ÓØ ÎÙ ÕÓÞÓ

The controversy trailing allegation by Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State that the federal government had to print N60 billion which was used to beef up the meagre revenue available for distribution for the month of March took a new twist yesterday, with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) calling for the immediate sack of the Minister of Finance, Hajiya Zainab Ahmed, for allegedly misleading Nigerians by denying the allegation.

The party said, “For failing the full disclosure test, the PDP demands that the Minister of Finance should immediately be relieved of her position, while the President accepts responsibility for the indiscriminate printing of currency in our Naira.

“Our party implores President Buhari to save our nation by allowing better hands to manage and salvage our economy before it is too late,” the party stated.

In a frontal condemnation of

the handling of the allegation, the PDP, in a statement signed by its National Publicity, Mr. Kola Ologbondiyan, said that the admission by CBN Governor, Godwin Emefiele, that the apex bank had been printing money at the bidding of government, had vindicated its earlier stand that the Buhari-led APC administration was characterised by concealments, deceit and falsehood.

The party said Governor Obaseki, as a financial expert, who is not known for flippancy, must be commended for his act of patriotism in exposing the dire economic situation our nation has been plunged under the Buhari administration.

The party said, “A situation where the federal government cannot articulate and implement policies favourable to wealth creation but resorting to borrowing and indiscriminate printing of currency notes, only goes to further confirm that the Buhari administration lacks the credibility and capacity to run a nation.

Suspected gunmen on Thursday evening invaded the Palace of Obadu of Ilemeso, Oba David Oyewumi and abducted the monarch.

Ilemeso, in Oye Local Government Area of Ekiti State is a neighbouring town to Isan Ekiti country home of Governor Kayode Fayemi.

This came barely a week some suspected bandits rained bullets on a car belonging to Elewu of Ewu Ekiti, Oba Adetutu Ajayi along EwuAyetoro Road and wounded the traditional ruler.

It was gathered that in the instant case, the gunmen, numbering six had scaled the fence of the Oba’s palace and shot sporadically to scare the occupants.

The source added that the incident happened around 8.30p.m. when the chiefs who had earlier visited the place had retired.

“In the process of shoot-

ing, they gained entrance into the bungalow where the traditional ruler and members of his family were and started beating them.

“They were asking after the monarch which showed that they really came for him and not any other person.

“Immediately they sighted him, they dragged him and took him out of the palace,” the source narrated.

When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer, Ekiti Command, ASP Sunday Abutu, confirmed the incident, describing it as regrettable.

Abutu said the gunmen stormed the palace with assorted rifles and traumatised the occupants, culminating in the kidnap of the monarch.

He said: “Yes, it happened yesterday in his palace.

Meanwhile, necessary steps have been taken to rescue him and apprehend the culprits.”

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NEWS DPR: It’s False to Say Nigeria Doesn’t Know its Crude Production Volume Emmanuel Addeh ÓØ ÌßÔË ËØÎ Peter Uzoho

WE GRIEVE WITH YOU… Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State (2nd left) with Senator Ayogu Eze (2nd right), the member representing Nsukka/Igbo-Eze South Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Dr. Pat Asadu (left), and his Nkanu East/West counterpart, Hon. Nnolim Nnaji, during the funeral ceremony of Prince Frank Igboji, the late in-law of Barr. Ifeanyi Ossai, held at Awhum, Udi Local Government Area, yesterday.

COVID-19: 8,491 Nigerians React Adversely to AstrazenecaVaccine Moderate to severe incidents presented as fever, vomiting, diarrhea, headaches, dizziness, pain, nausea Onyebuchi Ezigbo ÓØ ÌßÔË A total of 8,491 Nigerians have reacted adversely to the AstraZeneca inoculation since the exercise began on March 15.

The Executive Director of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), Dr. Faisal Shuaib, stated this yesterday at a press conference in Abuja.

The NPHCDA boss disclosed that Nigeria recorded 52 cases of moderate to severe incidents of Adverse Effects Following Immunisation (AEFI), presented as fever, vomiting, diarrhoea headaches, dizziness and allergic reactions.

There were also 8,439 mild AEFI reported, ranging fro m sw e l l i n g at the site of the inoculation, body pains and nausea.

Five states, according to Shuaib, have the highest records of the AEFI - Kaduna (970), Cross River (859), Yobe (541), Kebbi (511), and Lagos (448).

The NPHCDA boss said there had been no death so far from administration of the vaccine.

He also said that the agency had not diagnosed any case

of blood clots relating to the administration of the vaccines.

Shuaib said: “When incidents, no matter how rare, appear in populations receiving the vaccine, relevant authorities must investigate to determine whether there may be a connection between the medical incident and the vaccine.

“Nevertheless, we are working with NAFDAC, NCDC and other relevant agencies to set up a more active surveillance system built on our experience with polio surveillance.

“We have said from the start and I’ll say it again: we will only administer vaccines to Nigerians that are both safe and effective against COVID-19. We will continue to follow international best practice and the advice of the World Health Organisation (WHO) and other leading international regulatory bodies throughout this process.”

On the challenges being witnessed in the vaccine rollout, Shuaib said the initial challenges experienced by Kogi State citizens in accessing the vaccines had been resolved by the Presidential Steering Committee (PSC) on COVID-19.

Shuaib said: As you are

aware, about 16,900 doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine were delivered to the state and they have since launched their COVID-19 vaccination programme. We are gratified to say that it is going very well.

He also said that a factfinding team set up to verify reports of mismanagement of vaccine at one of the vaccination centres at Falomo Clinic in Lagos could not substantiate it.

“As of today, April 16th, 1,071,346 representing 53.2% of the eligible persons targeted with the AstraZeneca vaccine have been administered with their first dose in this vaccination phase.”

Shuaib added that many states had completed inoculating frontline health workers and are now offering vaccination to the elderly, particularly those that are 65 years and above.

He said the agency and its development partners “have a platform of Senior Supervisors” that engage in daily evening review meetings to determine the status of the COVID-19 vaccine implementation in all states and the FCT. In addition, he said NPHCDA had been careful to ensure that

only those who are eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine in the current phase are being vaccinated.

He said these include health workers and their support staff, other frontline workers, strategic leaders and that “in the last few days, we have also included those who meet the age requirements.”

Shuaib also said there were constraints posed by limited doses of COVID19 vaccines, adding that this has resulted in overall programme review to meet the challenges of global vaccine demand and supply mismatch, as well as the late commencement of the vaccination in some states.

“We are expanding the eligibility period between the first and second doses of the vaccine from 12 weeks to between 8 to 12 weeks,” he said.

Shuaib said that the global shortfall of COVID-19 vaccines led to readjustments in vaccine supply forecasts and to ensure that everyone who has taken the vaccine in the current phase gets the second dose before the next consignment is delivered to Nigeria.

Germany Names Ghana as West African Centre of Global Health

Festus Akanbi

Ghana was yesterday unveiled as the location for the West African Centre for Global Health and Pandemic Prevention by the German Government.

This was disclosed by the German Ambassador to Ghana, Christoph Retzlaff, in a tweet.

The choice of Ghana by the German Government was coming a week after Twitter announced Ghana as its Africa base, a development which caused stir as Nigerians expressed their

worries over what was viewed as erosion of investment confidence in Nigeria.

The ambassador, who broke the news explained: “Excellent news: Germany Flag of Germany will support (the) launch of a new “German-West African Center for Global Health and Pandemic Prevention. “It will be located in Ghana and be part of eight new centres worldwide to fight global challenges.”

Nigerians had taken to social media to make their opinions known after social networking

service, Twitter, decided to make Ghana its African headquarters.

Twitter co-founder, Jack Dorsey, revealed on Monday that it had finally set up an office in Africa and it would be in Ghana.

“Twitter is now present on the continent. Thank you Ghana and President Nana Akufo-Addo,” he tweeted. Reacting, Ghana’s President thanked Twitter for its decision, adding that he had met with Dorsey and he was confident the move would be the beginning of new things.

Akufo-Addo tweeted, “The

choice of Ghana as HQ for Twitter’s Africa operations is excellent news.

The government and Ghanaians welcome very much this announcement and the confidence reposed in our country.

“As I indicated in our virtual meeting of April 7, 2021, this is the start of a beautiful partnership between Twitter and Ghana, which is critical for the development of Ghana’s hugely important tech sector. These are exciting times to be in, and to do business in Ghana.”

The Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) yesterday pushed back on a reported comment that the country’s daily crude oil production remained unknown despite over 60 years of exploratory activities.

Some reports had quoted the Executive Secretary, Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI), Dr. Ogbonnaya Orji, as saying that the exact quantity of crude oil produced in Nigeria had remained unknown because of the absence of meters at wellheads and the lack of capacity to monitor deep offshore fields.

The NEITI boss was further quoted to have stated that his agency had in all its oil and gas audit reports recommended that meters be placed on oil wellheadstomeasure thevolumeofcrudeoilproducedacross the country, without success.

“We do not have capacity to go deep shores to know how much we are producing. As we speak, it is very difficult for any Nigerian to ascertain how much we are actually producing.

“This is one of the challenges that NEITI is dealing with.

Because if you do not know how much you are producing how would you know how much

you are expected to earn?” Orji was quoted to have said in a forum in Abuja.

However, in a statement in Abuja, signed by the DPR’s Head of Public Affairs, Mr. Paul Osu, the regulatory agency for the oil and gas industry noted that there was no truth in the imputation.

The agency wondered how the country would know the actual royalties and other revenues collected from operators without knowing the volume of crude oil produced on a daily basis.

“Our attention has been drawn to a report credited to the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Extractive Industry Transparency Initiative (NEITI) that the exact volume of Nigeria’s crude production is not known.

“We wish to state that this assertion is false in its entirety and should be disregarded, as every litre of crude produced in Nigeria is adequately captured during the process of extraction.

“The monitoring of crude oil production and accounting is the primary responsibility of the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) and the basis for determination of the government’s take through royalty payments by operators for sustainable development.

Ndume to FG, Give Periodic Update on Chibok Girls Rescue Efforts Deji Elumoye ËØÎ Udora Orizu ÓØ ÌßÔË Chairman of Senate Committee on Army, Senator Ali Ndume has called on the federal government to initiate a regular information sharing with the public on the ongoing effort to rescue the remaining 112 girls of Government Girls Secondary School, Chibok in Boko Haram captivity.

Ndume, who made call yesterday in Abuja while speaking on the 7th anniversary of the kidnap incident recalled that over 200 of the schoolgirls were kidnapped from their school in Chibok town, Borno State onApril 14, 2014 while over 100 of them had been rescued at different times leaving 112 others in captivity.

According to him, the earlier the federal government does something in terms of providing

more information as to the efforts that they were making, the better for the citizens.

He said, ‘’It is seven years since the Chibok girls were abducted.

Up till today, 112 of them are not accounted for. We hear stories but I am glad that the government issued a statement that they have not forgotten and that they are following the case.

But I want to call on the government to be giving the parents and the public update either on monthly or quarterly basis on the effort that they are making so that we will know what is going on.’’

He further said the federal government should identify the parents of the remaining 112 missing girls so that it can be in touch with them and also assist them psychologically.

Police Probe Death of Abuja-based Pastor

Kingsley Nwezeh ÓØ ÌßÔË

The Federal Capital Territory Police Command said yesterday it had commenced an investigation into the death of an Abuja-based pastor.

The command said in a statement that contrary to online reports that the pastor, Evans Unaegbu, was attacked and killed by gunmen at his worship centre along Jikwoyi, an outskirt of Abuja, there were no signs of attack on his body.

The statement said contrary to speculations sorrounding his demise, the command, in prompt response to a distress call from a resident of Jikwoyi, who resides near the late pastor’s church, deployed a team of police detectives from Jikwoyi Division to the church.

It said the detectives “immediately visited the scene where they found the late pastor in an unconscious state and took him to the hospital where the doctor certified him dead”.

The statement signed by the command’s Spokesperson, ASP Mariam Yusuf, said “preliminary investigation does not suggest any form of violence as no mark of violence or struggle was visibly seen on his body”.

Following the development, the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Bala Ciroma, ordered a thorough investigation to include a post mortem on the body to ascertain the true cause of death.

He further urged residents to remain calm, law-abiding, avoid circulating fake news and allow the law take its cause.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ ͹Ϳ, 2021

08054699539

Dispatch to New IG Usman Baba

M

y dear IG Usman Baba, the attack on the headquarters of the Imo State Police Command in Owerri, on April 5, represents the sorry state of the Nigeria Police Force. For over 30 minutes, gunmen ransacked the Command’s HQ unhindered, burning buildings and vehicles.

There was no resistance from your men. Not even a feeble one. The poorly-equipped and poorly-motivated policemen all ran away.

The attackers left jubilating. In all of Nigeria’s years of independence, the Police Force has never been this shabby. Our policemen have never been this mismanaged. How can they tackle criminals, when these lawbreakers have become stronger than them? This is why your men, more often than not, now run away from criminals. The truth be told; this country is in a mess in terms of policing.

Baba, I have read your impressive credentials. But you need more than this to turn around the Police. Just as you have admitted, modern policing is about technology, intelligence, quality equipment and quality manpower. I am not sorry to say that the Nigerian Police Force, as presently constituted, lack all the four key items; not even the capacity for policing with drones, which is several years old. So, they evidently lack the capacity to effectively police this country. During the attack on the Imo State Command, one would have expected a police attack helicopter to take off and decimate the gunmen. It did not happen because the Imo State Police Command has none. I doubt if any police command has an attack helicopter in this country. Weeks after the attack in Owerri, not one of the gunmen has been apprehended.

In the last few months, scores of police stations have been destroyed and operatives killed in the South-east and the South-south. The stories are very depressing. Last Wednesday, three policemen (while on duty) were shot dead by gunmen in Izzi Local Government Area of Ebonyi State. In the same Ebonyi State, on January 8, three policemen were killed at Onueke Police Station in Ezza South Local Government Area. On February 4, the Police Divisional Headquarters in Isu, Onicha Local Government Area was burnt and on March 1, the Iboko Divisional Police Station in Izzi Local Government Area was attacked.

In Imo State on February 5, two policemen were killed at Umulowo Division in Obowo Local Government Area, while on February 25, the Aboh Mbaise Divisional Police Headquarters was burnt. On March 9, the Police Station in Ihitte-Uboma Local Government Area was burnt.

Baba

A policeman was killed at a checkpoint in Neni, Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State on March 18. The following day, another policeman died at Ekwulobia Station, Nanka. On March 22, three policemen were killed in Abiriba, Ohafia Local Government Area of Abia State. Two more were killed on February 23 at the Abayi Divisional Police Headquarters in Aba, while another was killed on February 1 at the Omoba Station in Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area.

In Cross River, gunmen killed six policemen and a soldier in an attack at a checkpoint in Obubra, on the Calabar-Ikom highway.

The attack came barely two weeks after four policemen were killed also at a checkpoint in Idundu, near Calabar. The list is unending.

We are in an era when Nigerian policemen run away from criminals; the delinquents they are supposed to tame. Baba, the point I am making is that the Nigeria Police Force needs external help in terms of technology, intelligence, quality equipment and quality manpower, to effectively police this country.

On these, you have to convince your boss, President Muhammadu Buhari. He has to believe that the police have failed and will continue to fail until the needful is done.

You must get the President to believe in external help and provide cash and logistics to turn around the Police. Once you get the President’s buy in, then, straight away, you

should look towards Israeli or Canadian security specialists for help. These two countries have a history of very successful policing. They have security specialists you can engage to access modern manpower and equipment. Just imagine the advantages of having Israeli security advisers on ground in Nigeria, with the most modern policing equipment, working behind the scene with our anti-crime men on the field and also training them to eventually take over? Baba, make this a possibility if you truly desire to effectively police this country.

The highlights of your new policing vision released last Thursday include deploying cutting-edge policing technology and integrating intelligence-led policing practices to core policing functions, with a view to strengthening police capacity to stabilise the internal security order and restore public confidence in the Force. Good intention, but you and your men lack the capacity and equipment for these. I repeat, seek help from security advisers from countries that are successful in this direction.

The mode of recruitment into the Nigerian police must also change radically. The Force is for brave people; not just anybody looking for job. You have to work with the Police Service Commission, to put in place a system that allows the leadership of the police to tap into the wisdom of community leaders to fish out brave and decent young men for recruitment into the Force. The Nigerian Police Force is today dominated by fraidy-cats who go about terrorising innocent civilians. The few brave ones can’t turn the table against growing number of criminals.

Again, over the years, criminals have also been recruited into the Force because of the crooked enrollment process. Baba, just as the Chairman of the Police Service Commission (PSC), Musiliu Smith noted recently, you must rid the police of these bad eggs, if this country wants to make progress with policing.

If you truly want to leave a legacy of policing with human face, as stated recently, you must start recruiting the right people and pushing out the wrong people in the Force.

Smith was apt when he advocated proper and close monitoring of police investigative units to stem the atrocities their officials commit on the field. There is the need to treat cases of misconduct by your personnel swiftly and firmly, so that those found wanting are brought to book. You will agree that it is these jaundiced policemen that have continued to damage the Force.

My take away from the visit to the PSC Chairman, which you must swiftly implement, are that training should be one of your priority programmes, including building

Toki Mabogunje on Skewed Forex Policy For those who don’t know her, Mrs. Toki Mabogunje is the President of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, LCCI. She recently spent time speaking on the skewed forex policy of the Buhari government and the difficulties faced by investors in accessing forex which she said “is putting investments and jobs at risk.”

The LCCI boss says it is important for the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Economic Advisory Council to be on the same page as far as the country’s forex policy framework is concerned. She also wants Nigeria’s forex policy framework reviewed to expand the scope of market mechanism in the determination of exchange rate.

She says lingering forex liquidity concerns, acerbated by the widening disparity between parallel market rate and Nigerian Autonomous Foreign Exchange Rate, remains a major driver of core inflation in recent months.

Mabogunje remarked: “It is critically important for policymakers to harmonise the multiple exchange rates into a single market-reflective rate, which is imperative for strengthening investor confidence and engendering macroeconomic stability. Lack of cohesion among policymak-

Mabogunje

ers sends a negative signal to the investment community, worsens uncertainty, and further dampens investor confidence.

“The unification of exchange rates will complement recent efforts by the CBN geared at enhancing liquidity at the supply segment of

the foreign exchange market. Ensuring clarity of the country’s foreign exchange policy direction among participants in the investment environment is even more imperative in attracting private investments into the economy.

“Many investors in the economy, including those in the real sector, are lamenting the difficulties in accessing foreign exchange for importation of raw materials, equipment and some critical inputs for production and processing. This is in spite of the notable recovery in crude oil prices. This situation is taking a huge toll on capacity utilisation, business turnover, sales, and profitability. Sustainability of some of these investments is currently at risk with dire implications for retention of jobs.”

The LCCI President acknowledged the efforts of the CBN towards boosting Dollar inflows into the economy through the Naira for Dollar Scheme but wants this privilege extended to other sources of foreign inflows, especially export proceeds.

Mabogunje has spoken very well. Unfortunately, those running the economic show in Nigeria hardly listen to voices of reason. This is the tragedy of Nigerian.

strong intelligence base so as to detect and control crime; the revival of the Police Detective College in Enugu should get priority attention, so that it would provide the platform for training in intelligence gathering; the need for divisional police officers to return to their responsibilities of doing visiting rounds and also the need for revival of workshops and communication in police commands.

Quality recruitment, quality training and retraining, quality motivation, quality equipment and quality support of security advisers from successful countries will lead to a new Nigeria Police Force. Baba, this is the only way forward.

El-rufai

El-rufai Should Halt Retrenchment This clearly is not the best time to retrench anybody. Where will they be retrenched to? The economy is in a mess with so many people already jobless. There is so much suffering and hunger in our land. This is why I regard the ongoing retrenchment of civil servants in Kaduna State by Governor Nasir El-rufai as the height of man’s inhumanity to fellow humans. Some will even die immediately they are retrenched.

El-rufai justified this decision to lay off the workers by citing high wage bill and dwindling revenues. The Kaduna government in a statement said: “In November 2020, the KDSG had only N162.9 million left after paying salaries. That month, Kaduna State got N4.83 billion from FAAC and paid N4.66bn as wages. In the last six months, personnel costs have accounted for between 84.97% and 96.63% of FAAC transfers received by the Kaduna State Government. In March 2021, Kaduna State had only N321m left after settling personnel costs.”

Honestly, the statement by El-rufai is an indictment of his government. So, for almost six years, he has been running the state with feeding bottle from Abuja? It means he has done very little in terms of improving the state’s IGR. This governor should halt the retrenchment and lead the civil servants to improve the state’s IGR. He should also cut down his own expenses.

El-rufai’s long list of advisers and assistants should be slashed. This governor should cut his travel bill and security vote and you will see how much would be saved.

For me, retention of workers should be top of the priorities of any government in Nigeria because there is no social security in this part of the world. The pension system is also horrifying. A Professor of Political Economy, Pat Utomi, agrees, saying it would not be right for government to abandon the public service workers, especially with the frightening state of unemployment and the economy generally.

My dear El-rufai, please cuddle a path of honour by withdrawing all retrenchment letters issued. You will save lives if you take this action.

SATURDAY APRIL 17, 2021 • T H I S D AY

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APRIL 17, 2021 • THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

COMMENTARY

MY PROLONGED TRANCE OVERYINKA AND INNOCENT Tony Iyare pays tribute to Odumakin and Chukwuma, two committed rights activists

I

’m still in a trance, numbed into some auditory hallucination, virtually unable to reconcile myself to the fact that the curtains had indeed fallen for Yinka Odumakin and Innocent Chukwuma, two leaders of civil society who bit the dust at the dawn of Easter. For the first time, I was really restrained in heralding the Easter on the house tops when two of our most brilliant and resourceful fighting forces had taken leave in a spate of few hours.

Although both belonged to a shade younger generation of the studentary, one in which the state had grown fiercer and more desperate in its resolve to asphyxiate the students movement, they had credibly acquitted themselves and stood like the rock of Gibraltar while on campus. The enthronement of structural adjustment programme (SAP) ordained by the international finance agencies, weaned by the regime of General Ibrahim Babangida in the late 80s had dictated massive crippling of democratic rights. Confronted by the rampaging state sponsored vigilante, then in its brewing stage assuming varied forms, both students leaders refused to buckle under.

Incubated from the rubric of the Ife radical tradition that has bred many revolutionary cadres, Yinka did not disappoint in speaking truth to power and was unwavering about his strand on every national discourse. He was as passionate as he marshalled critical issues germane to propel the country’s development and was unsparing in unleashing the edge of his tongue on forces that have plotted its backward drive.

What was however different in his intervention to national pathway was his mechanics. While others of his ilk chose to romanticize class analysis and the primacy of primary contradictions in explaining the crisis of the Nigerian state, he long cast lot to stoutly defend the cause of the Yoruba in a multi-ethnic Nigeria enmeshed in its resolution of the national question. He had merely enlisted on the path of avowed revolutionary cadres like Ola Oni, Baba Omojola, Edwin Madunagu and G.G. Darah, who not only stoked the conversation of the national question but also began to play more than a passive role in the daily struggles of their people.

“While revel in class analysis when even what remains of the semblance of a nation state is being stultified,” Yinka and others would ask rhetorically. He was never given to eclectic talk and remained resolutely committed to a Nigeria founded on federal principles in which the Yoruba imbued with immense human resources can remake a Singapore within their space.

At a time when some apparently sponsored Fulani group, brandishing assault rifles that makes the AK47 (kalash) look ordinary, took over the Yoruba and other forests and were fingered for kidnapping, killing and maiming of the people and raping its women, Yinka had galvanized the Afenifere and other southern groups to what was perceived as an ensuing affront against their people. But in spite of Yinka’s regular writings and discussions on TV programmes, not many had spared deep reflection on his thoughts.

Some of us tend to delude ourselves, unable to clearly appreciate the dimension of the crises of the Nigerian state or sometimes are particularly too condescending in dismissing what has been reduced to “ethnic struggle”.

I had tried to explain the political dynamics of the West by weaving it around the growth of the now 70 -year- old Yoruba socio-cultural movement, Afenifere, which had Yinka as their spokesperson for 17 years until his final breathe on Good Friday in three pieces titled, “The Cicero’s Requiem,” written in the National Interest shortly after the tragic death of then Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Chief Bola Ige on the dawn of Christmas in 2001,“Not yet Afenifere’s nunc dimitis” and “The bile in Akande’s valedictory treatise,” published in my Scorpionflakes column in The Punch on Sunday, May 18, 2003 and Sunday, June 8, 2003 respectively.

YINKA AND INNOCENT, THANKS FOR MAKING SIGNIFICANT IMPACT WITH YOUR WORK. THEIR LIVES ARE ALSO POINTERS THAT WE CAN ALL MAKE IMPRINTS ON SOCIETY FROM WHAT WE DO IN OUR LITTLE CORNERS

While then raising the need for reform particularly on leadership renewal and regeneration in the then 50-year-old organisation, I had attempted to discuss its dialection as a formidable rearguard of the development in the West. I also explained reasons for the premature requiem of other groups floated either on the spur of the moment or to respond to some immediate and opportunistic desires and how they floundered.

I also recall one of G.G. Darah’s presentations, reminding us that the Ijaw, the seventh largest group in Nigeria was bigger than 50 countries that are members of the UN. What then will we say of the about 40 million Yoruba or who if we add the Yoruba in Diaspora are projected to be about 60 million? How can we opt to play chess with the affairs of a group who with their kith and kin in Diaspora if located wholly in Europe will be the 6th most populous country after Russia, Turkey, Germany, France and United Kingdom?

Most times, we tend to ape Euro-American narratives and paradigms which characterise the problems in Africa as bickering amongst tribes while presenting theirs as war between nations. Trevor Roper, a History professor at Oxford had in fact argued that Africa as a dark continent had no history. But what’s evinced in Europe is the emergence of different ethnic groups as nations. Some of them like Luxembourg, Cyprus, Andorra, Malta, Monaco, Liechtenstein, San Marino, and the Vatican are like little hamlets in Nigeria. They may not even be as big as small groups like the Bolewa, Jukun, Esan, Ngas, Idoma, Bwatiye, or the Mumuye.

Yet they dangle their flags at the UN and compete for medals at the Olympics. Sometimes we seem to play the Russian roulette over these issues without understanding the magnitude of the crises confronting us. It is true that having a nation of co-ethnics like the case of Somalia, is not a sufficient guarantee to peace. I also concede that different groups within the Nigerian space have had blood skirmishes not only against each other but had also been engaged in a war of attrition within themselves.

The list is endless. Yoruba on Yoruba violence as depicted by the Ijaiye wars or the Ife-Modakeke bloodbath, the Igbo on Igbo that we saw in Aguleri/Umuleri, Idoma on Idoma in Agila over kingship, Tiv on Tiv in Toungo, Esan on Esan over farmlands, etc. But that does not negate the argument that every group requires its space for survival and cultural expression. We really need to glean from the examples of multi-ethnic states like the UK and Switzerland and how they’ve better managed their differences.

Unlike some of our radical cadres who ascribe revolutionary developments only in the context of the Marxian and Leninist doctrines, I have in the past years tried to locate some revolutionary strides in our society by other persons not grounded in those thoughts. Many for instance now take for granted the availability of scores of historical, sociological and literary works focusing on different peoples of Nigeria and Africa forgetting that the early scholars like Kenneth Dike, Ade Ajayi and Cheikh Anta Diop who not necessarily being Marxists, vigorously challenged the prevailing Eurocentric historiography and pioneered the discourse about Africanist history.

What of early literary scholars like John Pepper Clark, Chinua Achebe and Wole Soyinka and many other writers who laid the basis for Africanist Literature? Although the works of these scholars were later reinforced by radicals like Ola Oni, Omafume Onoge and Bade Onimode, it must be clear that those who began the struggle against Eurocentric scholarship were non Marxists but what they did was revolutionary. In those days, every literary discourse was usually on William Shakespeare, Willian Wordsworth, Charles Dickens, George Orwell, Thomas Hardy and so on and throwing up other ideas was inconceivable.

ON ZONING WE STAND

It is the turn of Delta Central in 2023, writes Edward Ogheneakpobo

T

he Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has been in power in Delta State since 1999. There were no magical powers to winning all the gubernatorial elections. The victories were due to the good strategy and policies adopted by the party which were well received across the state. Most of the members are highly experienced in politics. The policies adopted since inception in 1998 have become rules, ethics and laws that are fused into the party constitution, standing as a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the members of the party, especially in situations that call for competitions or election into a highly contested positions as gubernatorial seat or Presidency.

From the archives of the party, the most respected political leader, Chief James Ibori who was then the governor of Delta State and a host of PDP leaders such as Chief James Manager, Chief Pius Sinebe, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan, Chief Emmanuel Ogidi, Chief Peter Nwaboshi, Chief Ighoyota Amori, Professor Samuel Oyovbaire and Chief Kenneth Gbagi jointly agreed on an accord that zoning of the governorship position should be adopted and rotated among the three senatorial zones - viz Delta Central, South and North respectively. It was said to be clearly stated that the zoning is strictly on Senatorial districts and not on ethnic basis. By 2023, the first zoning arrangement will elapse and another cycle will begin with Delta Central.

But a voice from the creeks where the Ijaws live is reportedly sounding a discordant tune, demanding

for ethnic zoning. This is uncalled for. The PDP in Delta State cannot afford such a costly mistake which has the tendency to change the fortunes of the party.

The Urhobos have long regarded the Ijaws as best of friends and have, and are still living in harmony with one another over the years. We cannot afford o rock the boat.

The zoning accord started in1999 with Chief James Ibori of the Delta Central. The zoning accord came into play in the second tenure. Hence, Chief James Ibori was returned unopposed in obedience to the accord. In 2007, it was expected that only the candidates from Delta South, where the Isokos, Itsekiris and Ijaws live, should run for the party’s governorship primary. Even though some aspirants from other senatorial zones also ran, the leadership of the party stepped in and the aspirants from the Central and North were forced to withdraw. Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan, an Itsekiri from Delta South was allowed to pick the ticket without hitch and to fulfill the electoral procedure, all the delegates that were at the venue of the election, voted en-masse for him and was declared nominated.

The resistance to the zoning accord was again repeated with aspirants from the three senatorial zones in 2015, when the baton was to be handed over to the PDP faithful from the Delta North that consists of the Ukwanis, Ikas and Delta Ibos to present a desirable candidate for the seat. Chief James Ibori who was the initiator of this policy and

whose voice was always accepted spoke to support it, even while he was indisposed, of the continuation of the zoning accord. At this time, a large number of Urhobo indigenes who would have voted en-masse for David Edevbie made a U-turn and gave their votes to Senator Ifeanyi Okowa.

In reality, if the Urhobos had resisted and opted out of the zoning accord, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan and Senator (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa wouldn’t have been able sit in Government House. Urhobos in Delta Central and Delta South are almost two-thirds of the population of Delta State.

So, the Urhobos must occupy the Number One seat in Government House, come 2023. Any crack on the zoning accord must be resolved on time to ensure the PDP does not lose the prime position in Government House to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Chief Moses Taiga, President General of Urhobo Progress Union is therefore advised to go into the archives to ensure unity among the Urhobos for any eventuality. The unity and spirit of oneness of the Urhobos is beyond party affiliation.

To further strengthen the place of Urhobo in Delta politics, they should move closer to the Isokos and maintain their ancestral relationships. The Isokos should endeavour to align with the Urhobos for a common battle and at any time assist one another especially in contesting positions such as the governorship race, so that when zoning comes to the South, the Urhobos in Delta South and Central will

also support them in a brotherly spirit.

It sounds unrealistic that Chief James Manager, an Ijaw and Delta State longest serving Senator who is expected to be seen as father of PDP and political motivator, is set to go into consultation, thereby disobeying the rules of the zoning accord. His will be a futile effort. Similarly, Dr Kingsley Otuaro, another Ijaw PDP faithful and one of the most level-headed Deputy Governors of Delta State should put on hold any interest till 2031.

The leadership of PDP and the detribalized and hardworking Governor of Delta State, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa should know that the time has come where many will show to him that they are the best for the seat. There is an adage which says that “Many are called few are chosen’. Many are already on the streets trumpeting their desire to contest the seat.

For the interest of the good people of Delta State, he should not fall for any secret accord. On careful assessment of the several aspirants that are already on board, he will be able to know who is serious, prepared and equipped with what it takes to win and institute good governance in the state.

Zoning or no zoning accord, Delta South and North Senatorial zones should stay out of the race and give way for the candidates in Delta Central, where aspirants like Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi, David Edevbie, Peter Mrakpor, Festus Agas, Aguoye, Oborevwori and others are on their feet..

Ogheneakpobo is a PDP Stalwart

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APRIL 17, 2021 • THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

INSIGHT

Welcome back...

Judiciary Workers’ Strike and Correctional Centres

L

awyers and other court users are not the only ones bearing the brunt of the ongoing nationwide strike of judiciary workers; others who are not readily thought of are also groaning. The strike is putting pressure on the Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola over the safety of 47,000 inmates whose trial has been stalled and Nigerians are expecting him to offer maximum protection in the face of frequent attacks on the correctional centres. Going by the latest statistics published by the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCS) on its website on April 6, 2021, there are over 47,416 awaiting trial inmates in its facilities in the country. Aregbesola is facing dilemma over judiciary workers’ strike and providing security for correctional centres across Nigeria due to recent attacks on the police.

This figure constitutes about 72 per cent of the total 65,781 inmates in the country’s correctional facilities. It speaks volume about the contribution of awaiting trial inmates to the vexed issue of prison congestion in the country. Of the 65, 781 total inmates, only 18,365, about 28 per cent, are convicts who are serving jail terms.

The courts shut down across the country will definitely compound the woes of the prisons which are poorly funded by the federal government due to shortage of funds, and prisons’ overcrowded conditions will only make them more vulnerable to jailbreaks.

The Nigerian Correctional Service has warned that if the nationwide strike embarked by judiciary workers is allowed to continue, it could provoke inmates into rebellion. Spokesman for the Nigerian Correctional Service, Frank Enobore said that prolonged detention of inmates could increase tension and spark a prison riot. Enobore said that 95 per cent of the time, prison riots were caused by persons awaiting trial or condemned inmates. He, however, said the strike had also made sure that new inmates were not coming in since the courts were shut. The NCoS spokesman said, “In a way we are not too affected because we are not seeing an influx of persons coming into the correctional centres but the irony is that we get more concerned when people are not leaving our facilities than when they are coming in. This is because if those who are to go to court cannot go, it will create tension. It means those who have the hope of leaving the correctional centre will have to remain there till courts resume duty.”

Judiciary workers had embarked on the indefinite nationwide strike in protest against the denial of the judiciary its constitutionally-guaranteed financial autonomy which was also affirmed by a Federal High Court in January 2014. The strike has prevented the police and other law enforcement agencies from arraigning suspects in courts, which have remained

shut since last week.

Whenever the court system is paused, the police investigations processes suffer greatly. Our investigation processes also suffer based on the fact that certain orders, authorisations that are supposed to be processed from the court are either delayed or impossible to obtain.

Also, the spokesman for the Nigerian Correctional Service, Mr. Enobore, prayed the strike would end in time as prolonged detention of inmates could increase tension and spark a prison riot. He said 95 per cent of the time, prison riots were caused by persons awaiting trial or condemned inmates. He, however, said the strike had also made sure that new inmates were not coming in since courts were shut.

I am worried about the state of the nation’s judiciary and this has compelled me to add my voice on the need for those elected by the people, particularly the 36 state governors to respect the law as it concerns independence of the Judiciary It is on record that the governors for inexplicable reason(s) have refused to comply with extant laws, leaving the state of our judiciary in comatose. This is despite the fact that the administration of the justice system of the country has its own peculiar challenges that have over time resulted into the Nigerian people substantially losing confidence in the judiciary as the last hope of the common man.

Inwalomhe Donald, inwalomhe.donald@yahoo. com

Lado Suleja: Man of the Masses

A

lhaji Lado Suleja, who represents Suleja Constituency in the House of Representatives, is without doubt a politician with pedigree.

Being privileged to be in his campaign team on the day I visited his Constituency office recently, I witnessed firsthand how people poured encomiums on him to no end; evidence of his sterling service to the people.

He soon quietly receded to his private office.

But despite the mammoth crowd, I was astonished that no security operatives were around him. He later waddled through the same crowd to observe his prayers, despite his very busy schedule.

It was a lesson for me that whatever we do in life, we must endeavor to put God first. But it was a testimony to the fact that Suleja is a true Muslim whose faith in Allah is unshakeable. In my view, he set himself apart as a man who would not allow his job block the path to his creator.

Alhaji Suleja has impacted on his constituency in no small measure. In the area of education, he gave free exercise books, mathematical sets, uniform and sandals to pupils in the public schools in Suleja Local Government and its environs.

T H E SAT U R DAY N E W S PA P E R EDITOR YEMI ADEBOWALE DEPUTY EDITOR FESTUS AKANBI MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR KAYODE KOMOLAFE CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN MANAGING EDITOR JOSEPH USHIGIALE

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

In the provision of basic infrastructure, the unanimous view is that he has surpassed expectation of the people. Little wonder, he has earned the nickname Mutum mai Jama’a or Man of the masses. He has provided boreholes, street lights, potable water, as well as giving cash donation to widows, among other peopleoriented programmes. He empowered youth in the constituency with the donation of tricycles, bicycles and other valuable materials that could guarantee their financial independence.

In the area of advocacy, he tried his best to organise series of seminars for the youth, aimed at encouraging them to shun violence and embrace peace, having made them understand that only in the environment of peace and harmony would there be meaningful development.

Hon Suleja is widely believed to have worked himself to easy re-election in the 2023 election and I have no doubt he would sail through any opposition in the constituency to continue his giant strides. The popular saying, one good term deserves another, suits the Man of the masses.

Anjorin Adeolu, Abuja

Stay Safe And At Home

D

o we need to be “Faster - Higher - Stronger”, the Olympic motto or should we just try to be ok and healthy? The Olympics may yet be cancelled completely after having been delayed a year says Toshihiro Nikai, secretary general of the Liberal Democratic Party, who talked of having to “give up”.

The 2020 Olympics were postponed because of the COVID pandemic and the 2021 version will have few in the stands as overseas spectators have been banned and many of the local citizens aren’t interested or actually want it cancelled. Any spectators that would attend will only be allowed to clap and not cheer which seems a rather sad, pale version of the event.

The first priority for most countries is to get citizens vaccinated, stop the spread of the virus and then start on an economic recovery rather than watching two weeks of Olympians and para Olympians doing the best they can. Considering how many have already died and will still die, it is probably best to commit all resources to the medical world and stay safe at home. I know a number of Olympic competitors will miss their one opportunity but that may be the cost they have to pay for the safety of the majority.

Dennis Fitzgerald, Melbourne, Australia

14

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER APRIL 17 ,2021

NEWS Policy Somersault Responsible for Civil Service Reforms Failure, Says HoS Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Dr. Folasade Yemi-Esan, has identiÀed Solic\ somersaXlt, lacN of sNilled manSoZer, lacN of s\nerJ\ EetZeen the SXElic and Srivate sector orJanisations and the imSlementinJ 0D$s inclXdinJ rivalr\ and conÁict of interest amonJ institXtions as some of the factors resSonsiEle for failXre of Sast civil service reform.

She advanced these reasons \esterda\ Zhile deliverinJ a virtXal lectXre on 3XElic Service

Nigeria’ll Continue to Target Illicit Drugs Laboratories, Farms, Says Marwa

REWARDED FOR EXCELLENCE… Wife of Abia State Governor, Dr. Nkechi Ikpeazu (right), presenting Award of Excellence to the Speaker of Abia State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Chinedum Enyinnaya Orji, from Abia branch of the National Council for Women Societies (NCWS) during their Summit and Grand Awards Foundation Laying ceremony held at the Michael Okpara Auditorium, Umuahia...recently

Polytechnics will Remain Shut Until FG Addresses Our Demands, ASUP Insists Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja $cademic StaͿ 8nion of 3ol\technics $S83 has voZed to continXe its striNe SendinJ Zhen federal Jovernment enJaJed them to resolve their Jrievances. ,n a statement \esterda\ E\ $S83 3resident, $nderson E]eiEe, the Xnion said that it commenced the indXstrial action on $Sril to draZ the attention of the Jovernment to the deSloraEle state of oXr SXElic 3ol\technics and 0onotechnics. ´This is Zith a vieZ to a

reversal of the fortXnes of the institXtions and SlacinJ them on a stronJ Sedestal toZards meetinJ their oEliJations to the 1iJerian SeoSle. ´:e are determined to SXrsXe this Sosition to a loJical conclXsion for the EeneÀt of the sector, the nation and in favoXr of the rXle of laZ. ´:hile holdinJ oXr Sosition in the trenches of this onJoinJ enJaJement, Ze shall sXstain the cXrrent enJaJements Zith the Jovernment SarticXlarl\ in fXrtherinJ and estaElishinJ the Jains of the enJaJements of the

th and th of $Sril .

Details of these shall also Ee made NnoZn to the SXElic at the aSSroSriate time,µ he said.

E]eiEe said the indXstrial action, cXrrentl\ in its th da\ had Zitnessed stronJ comSliance levels E\ chaSters of oXr Xnion across the nation He said that the ZorNers· action had led to some Nnee MerN reactions from the Jovernment Eoth at the federal and state levels.

He said the Xnion had Eeen involved in tZo oXt of three schedXled meetinJs Zith the federal Jovernment as reSresented

E\ toS o΀cials of the Federal 0inistr\ of EdXcation as Zell as /aEoXr and EmSlo\ment on the th and th of $Sril, . $ccordinJ to him, the third meetinJ schedXled for $Sril Zas SostSoned to a later date .

E]eiEe fXrther exSlained that the meetinJs held on the th and th of $Sril has resXlted to some siJniÀcant oXtcomes.

He said the Xnion ZoXld continXe to Sress for aSSroSriate docXmentations and for Srocess led actions and Sractical steSs for those demands reTXirinJ immediate action.

Okowa is Pride of PDP, FCT Bans Farming Nigeria, Says Gov Ishaku along Airport Road Omon-Julius Onabu in Asaba

TaraEa State *overnor, DairXs DicNson ,shaNX, has descriEed *overnor ,fean\i 2NoZa of Delta State as a Sride to the 3eoSles Democratic 3art\ 3D3 and the 1iJerian nation as he has remained a man of inteJrit\ and hiJh leadershiS reSXtation. ,shaNX, Zho stated this \esterda\ Zhile inaXJXratinJ some roads in $saEa, the Delta State caSital, and the adMoininJ toZn of 2NSanam e[ecXted E\ state Jovernment, said that the SeoSle of the state shoXld coXnt themselves lXcN\ to have 2NoZa as Jovernor dXe to his sincere commitment to the eTXitaEle develoSment of the state.

The TaraEa State Jovernor helSed to inaXJXrate the -esXs Saves 5oad, $Jric 5oad and

2nZXeJEX]ia 5oad in $saEa, 2shimili /ocal *overnment $rea as Zell as the $saEa-2NSanam 5oad in 2shimili 1orth /ocal *overnment $rea, Zhich Zas XSJraded to a dXal-carriaJe Za\ E\ the 2NoZa administration.

1onetheless, ,shaNX noted that 2NoZa had at some ver\ critical Soints in the develoSment of the coXntr\ risen XS to the challenJe E\ offerinJ SXrSosefXl leadershiS and avertinJ maMor Solitical crises in the coXntr\.

SSecificall\, he noted that 2NoZa had, a time the 3D3 aSSeared to Ee threatened E\ leadershiS SroElem, steSSed in as the chairman of the Sart\·s national convention in $EXMa, Zhere a neZ national chairman emerJed Zho Zas acceStaEle to all the interest JroXSs Zithin the Sart\.

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

The Federal CaSital Territor\ $dministration FCT$ has Eanned farminJ activities on frinJes of the SoSXlar 8mar 0Xsa Yar·$dXa E[SressZa\, leadinJ to 1namdi $]iNiZe ,nternational $irSort.

FCT 0inister, 0allam 0Xhammad %ello, issXed the order \esterda\ Zhen he led the toS manaJement team of the administration, Solitical leaders and some traditional rXlers to insSect varioXs develoSments on that road axis.

The order also oXtlaZed street tradinJ and illeJal motor SarNs alonJ the airSort Za\. He froZned at Ei]arre condXcts of residents constitXtinJ nXisance to the SXElic.

Bello said that no resident or

orJanisation ZoXld Ee alloZed to carr\ oXt an\ illeJal activit\ on a maMor JateZa\ leadinJ into the nation·s caSital cit\.

He noted that Zhile residents Zere encoXraJed to enJaJe in leJitimate economic activities that mitiJate Sovert\ and contriEXte to nation EXildinJ, the administration ZoXld not alloZ sXch at an\ XnaXthorised Slaces.

Bello excoriated commXnities alonJ the road frinJes from the Cit\ *ate to Bill Clinton Drive for defacinJ the environment and not comSl\inJ Zith extant reJXlations.

He ordered the $EXMa Environmental 3rotection Board $E3B

to sensitise residents and farmers on the need not to Slant an\ croSs alonJ the road axis, so as to mitiJate their losses, as the aJenc\ Zill not sSare their croSs.

WTO: Nigeria Tops List of Importers in Africa

Festus Akanbi

The :orld Trade 2rJanisation :T2 on Frida\ listed 1iJeria as the nXmEer one imSorter of commercial services in $frica.

The orJanisation said in its data on the ¶/eadinJ E[Sorters and ,mSorters of Commercial services e[clXdinJ intra-E8 Trade ·, released on Frida\.

The data shoZed that 1iJeria

occXSied nXmEer Sosition in the cateJor\ of imSorters of commercial services in the Zorld, Zhile EJ\St emerJes second in $frica and nXmEer JloEall\.

HoZever, 1iJeria is aEsent on the list of toS e[Sorters of commercial services in the Zorld, Zhile EJ\St and 0orocco made the list of toS e[Sorters ZorldZide amonJ $frican coXntries.

5eform 3roJramme ,mSlementation in 1iJeria to SarticiSants of Senior E[ecXtive CoXrse 1o. of the 1ational ,nstitXte for 3olic\ and StrateJic StXdies, .XrX, -os.

She also addXced other reasons for the reforms setEacN, notaEle of Zhich are Solitical interference, Soor fXndinJ of the 0D$s, Soor commXnication at SlanninJ and imSlementation staJes, total lacN of oZnershiS of reforms E\ states and Soor involvement of citi]ens.

She lamented that desSite varioXs reform SroJrammes initiated in the Sast, reform imSlementation had alZa\s Eeen the Eane.

%oth coXntries EJ\St and 0orocco emerJed nXmEer and resSectivel\ as the larJest e[Sorters of commercial services ZorldZide.

The data also shoZed that 8nited States 8S ranNed Àrst as the toS commercial imSorter and e[Sorter of Joods, the 8nited .inJdom 8. folloZed as the second larJest e[Sorter of Joods Zith China, ,ndia and

SinJaSore.

Similarl\, China, 8., -aSan and SinJaSore Moined 8S as the toS coXntries for imSortation of Joods in . $ statement from :T2 e[Slained that ´The imSact of the Sandemic on merchandise trade volXmes diͿered across reJions in , Zith most reJions recordinJ larJe declines in Eoth e[Sorts and imSorts.

Michael Olugbode in Abuja Chairman and Chief E[ecXtive of the 1ational DrXJ /aZ Enforcement $Jenc\ 1D/E$ , %riJ. *en. %XEa 0arZa 5td has said 1iJeria ZoXld continXe to tarJet illicit drXJs laEoratories and farms in her onJoinJ offensive aJainst drXJ dealers.

He said this Zas imSerative EecaXse of the threat the\ Sose to 1iJeria·s national secXrit\.

0arZa revealed this in his Sresentation on the 1ational DrXJ Control 0aster 3lan at a side event at the commission on 1arcotic DrXJs Conference taNinJ Slace in 9ienna, $Xstria. $ccordinJ to him, ´1iJeria Zas traditionall\ considered a transit coXntr\ for drXJ trafficNinJ. 1oZ the SroElem is mXch EiJJer as different cateJories of drXJs are SrodXced, consXmed and trafficNed in the coXntr\.µ He noted that ´DrXJs trafficNed inclXde cannaEis, cocaine, heroin and Ss\chotroSic sXEstances inclXdinJ methamShetamine and tramadol. CannaEis is cXltivated in different Sarts of the coXntr\ and there is evidence of methamShetamine SrodXcinJ laEoratories. 1D/E$ has destro\ed thoXsands of hectares of cannaEis cXltivated land as Zell as methamShetamine

manXfactXrinJ laEoratories.µ The 1D/E$ Eoss said a sitXation Zhere the drXJ Xse Srevalence in 1iJeria is .

Ser cent Zas XnacceStaEle and as sXch ever\ necessar\ steS mXst Ee taNen to reverse the trend.

8sinJ a recent 812DC sXrve\ reSort, 0arZa said ´The drXJ Xse Srevalence in 1iJerians aJed EetZeen and \ears is aSSro[imatel\ Ser cent and it is three times the JloEal drXJ Xse Srevalence of . Ser cent.

CannaEis Xsed E\ . million 1iJerians is the most common Xsed drXJ folloZed E\ oSioids Zith . million inclXdinJ tramadol. This is in addition to the fact that one in ever\ foXr individXals XsinJ drXJs is a Zoman and one in Àve Zho had Xsed drXJ in the Sast \ear is sXͿerinJ from drXJ Xser disorder.µ He said 1D/E$ remained committed as 1iJeria·s Sremier drXJ control aJenc\ Zith the mandate to ´Srovide eͿective and e΀cient services to 1iJerians E\ cXttinJ oͿ the sXSSl\ of and redXcinJ the demand for illicit drXJs and other sXEstances of aEXse, tracinJ and recoverinJ drXJ related Sroceeds, and contriEXtinJ to the creation and maintenance of an enviaEle imaJe for the nation Zithin the JloEal commXnit\.

Runsewe Calls for Reinforcement of Cultural Ties between Nigeria, Bangladesh Charles Ajunwa The Director *eneral of the 1ational CoXncil for $rts and CXltXre 1C$C , 2tXnEa 2lXseJXn 5XnseZe, has called for reinforcement of the mXtXal cXltXral ties that e[ist EetZeen the 3eoSle·s 5eSXElic of %anJladesh and the Federal *overnment of 1iJeria, sa\inJ it shoXld Ee e[Slored for the Eenefits of Eoth coXntries.

2tXnEa 5XnseZe stated this Zhen the HiJh Commissioner for the 3eoSle·s 5eSXElic of %anJladesh, His E[cellenc\, 0asXdXr 5ahman, Said him a coXrtes\ visit in his office in $EXMa. 5XnseZe noted that 1iJeria had Eenefited a lot from the mXtXal cXltXral relationshiS Zith %anJladesh in the areas of edXcation, Sovert\ eradication, trade and man\ more, addinJ that Eoth coXntries share similar valXes and ideals as common memEers of the 8nited 1ations, 1on $liJned 0ovement, D *roXS of 1ations and others.

$ccordinJ to 5XnseZe, it Zas Zorth\ to note that in 0arch , %anJladesh e[ited the JroXS of loZ income coXntries Zhich 1iJeria still EelonJs to as a memEer of /east DeveloSed CoXntries. $t the meetinJ held at 1C$C headTXarters in $EXMa, 5XnseZe informed the HiJh Commissioner of the forthcominJ SroJramme of 1C$C called the ,nternational $rts and Crafts E[So ,1$C

and seeN the SarticiSation of %anJladesh in ,1$C and in other 1C$C activities.

He also soXJht SartnershiS Zith the 5eSXElic of %anJladesh in orJanisinJ a Moint e[hiEition in 1iJeria and in %anJladesh notinJ that it ZoXld Ee ver\ reZardinJ to Eoth coXntries.

The 1C$C Eoss said that he is aZare that %anJladesh sXSSlies 1iJeria Zith -Xte Joods, ceramic, toEacco, cotton materials, EaJs, carSets, and others Zhich he said helSs to Eoost the 1iJerian econom\ throXJh trade.

16

SATURDAY APRIL 17, 2021 • T H I S D AY

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER APRIL17,2021

17

SHOWBIZFLAIR

Ferdinand Ekechukwu 08035011394 Email: ferdi_adthisday@yahoo.com

Dwindle, a Drama Like no Other Dwindle, a comedy movie from the stables of Filmone Entertainment, promises to be an epic showcase. Ferdinand Ekechukwu reports

T

o those who know Kayode Kasum, there’s this peculiar tune that accompanies his promotional clips. The director of ’s top-JrossinJ Àlm, Sugar Rush, Kasum had also spearheaded Quam’s Money, a December 2020 release, and the recentlyreleased 3on]i. The Àrst teaser to his upcoming collaborative eͿort titled ´Dwindleµ appeared recently and it bears this trait often associated with Kasum’s creative works. It’s the sound.

It’s not condemnable but identiÀable. It bears semblance with the promotional clips to his recent works as Sugar Rush and Quams Money.

But this is about his latest picture titled Dwindle, a drama like no other, going by the words of the makers of the movie in a post alongside the teaser.

It promises to be an epic showcase ´This -uly Find out what happens when you mix an Uber driver, the police, a missing money bag, love and an angry landlord looking for rent money. One word Epic DwindleMovie coming soon to cinemas 1ationwide -uly th *etHyped µ The Àlm follows the story of Sogo and Buta, two friends who hijack a car and subsequently go on a car-binge. But their lives take an unexpected turn when they cross paths with a group of assassins who had just kidnapped the state governor. Showing a mixture of humour, action and drama, there’s something more about the teaser that one sure looks forward to when the movie opens in cinemas on -uly . It is the important assignment which Kayode Kasum and his collaborator Dare Olaitan delivered on this project, starring Funke Akindele-Bello and Bisola Aiyeola. *limpse of the teaser shows both ladies are partners in a task as o΀cers of the police force.

But one appears serious and the other, Áippant.

Jidekene Achufusi and Broda Shaggi in first look from ‘Dwindle!’ directed by Kayode Kasum and Dare Olaitan

´Excuse me,µ Akindele’s character yells at her partner being unnecessarily excited.

Further scenes shows them come in contact with a group of outlaws. Recall the duo of Kasum and Olaitan unveiled a Àrst look of the

new comedy in March with behind the scenes photos of the comedy featuring Samuel Perry (Broda Shaggi) and -idekene Achufusi (Swanky -KA) in the lead roles, based on the story of two friends who embark on an ill-fated heist. Pro-

duced by Mimi Bartels for Filmone and executive produced by Kasum and Olaitan, who double as directors, while Adedimeji Lateef, Deyemi Okanlawon, Uzor Arukwe, Timini Egbuson and *old Ikponmwosa star in supporting roles.

Breaded Life is on the Table Scripted and directed by Biodun Stephen, Breaded Life, a new movie which is showing in cinemas combines humour, romance and drama with star actors Timini Egbuson and Bimbo Ademoye playing lead. Ferdinand Ekechukwu reports

B

readed Life, the new comedy Àlm by acclaimed Àlmmaker, Biodun Stephen opened yesterday in cinemas. ´Breaded Life is sweet guys and it’s eager to pop up on cinema screens close to you from Friday the th of April«. This Friday precisely,µ Stephen posted on Instagram, adding, ´Breaded Life will take you on a journey you would laugh you would cry you would love. My *od it’s such a beautiful, beautiful Àlm and it’s so special.µ Prior to its opening, the new feature screened to a select audience on Saturday, April 10 at the Filmhouse Cinema, Lekki, Lagos. The hood-themed event had in attendance the Àlm’s cast, crew and select industry inÁuencers, including top actors, actress and friends of the Biodun Stephen. The event also showcased models spotting trays with breads, replicating the Àlm’s comical depiction of bread hawking, a popular means of livelihood for low income earners especially in the Lagos Metropolis. The new Àlm, directed by Stephen, is collaboration involving Shutterspeed Project and David Wade.

Recall Stephen recently revealed that

‘Breaded Life’ is the anticipated sequel to her acclaimed 201 romantic comedy ‘Picture Perfect’ and it’s co-produced

by Stephen, Tara Ajibulu and Kayode Sowade. She further revealed that the spin-oͿ would feature characters from the Àlm. Breaded Life is the Àrst project from Stephen after directing Bisola Aiyeola’s debut Àlm, The Kujus, as a producer, in December 2020.

The Breaded Life combines humour, romance and drama with star actors Timini Egbuson and Bimbo Ademoye playing lead. It also stars Tina Mba, -ide Kosoko, Bisola Aiyelo, Li]]y -ay, 1kechi Blessing Sunday, Bolanle Ninalowo and Adedimeji Lateef.

Breaded Life evokes one of the overprotected lifestyle given a rich kid until a sudden escape. The movie follows the adventures of a haughty son from a wealthy home that learns life the tough way. Breaded Life is loosely based on the misunderstood spoilt brat (Timini Egbuson) who falls in love with a bread seller (Bimbo Ademoye). But his mom’s character (Tina Mba) would not take it.

He has made his choice. After all, isn’t responsibility relative? Timini’s character asks. True to his character, he doesn’t do drugs. Neither does he do unprotected sex. Well, maybe he does

Models spotting trays with bread with Bimbo Ademoye at the screening of Breaded Life to a select audience in Lagos

but not all the time.

What else does she want him to do?

He asks again, albeit rhetorically. But his new found life with the bread seller

exposes him to the other side of the world where he’s accosted. And annoyingly sets him on war path with his mum.

18

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER APRIL17,2021

SHOWBIZFLAIR

Falz Arrives South Africa Folarin Falana, better known as Falz, releases remix of his 2020 hit song, ‘Squander,’ featuring three South African artistes and Niniola. Ferdinand Ekechukwu reports

T

he multitalented act, Falz, last Monday released a remix of his 2020 hit song, ‘Squander, featuring South Africa’s Amapiano sensations, Kamo Mphela, Mpura and SayFar, alongside Nigerian Afro House Queen, Niniola. Produced by Nigerian hit maker Willis and rising star dance artiste/ producer, SayFar, “Squander” is an infectious song that would keep you dancing.

The less than four-minute song sees the musicians crooning about their cravings for Áamboyant lifestyles using a mixture of Nigerian and South African languages.

The song, which is a blend of Amapiano, a popular music style in South Africa, and Afro-

house, starts with Falz greeting in Hausa. The original version of the song featuring Niniola was released in December. It stood out for its production and its Hausa quotable. The “Bop Daddy” crooner soon followed it up with the video which also had a lot appeal.

For the new remix of ‘Squander’, the singer/ songwriter described how elated he was to work with the Amanpiano superstars as it is believed to be his way of penetrating the country’s music scene. Speaking on the AfroAmapiano record, Falz said: “I love South Africa, I love the Culture and the food. I am really excited about this remix with Kamo Mphela, Mpura and SayFar because it’s a great blend of South African and Nigerian music.

Like the Àrst song with Niniola, this is sure

to keep you on your feet. Kamo Mphela & Mpura were the best people to complement the song giving it that full Amapiano sound because of their distinct voices.”

With numerous awards and recognition, Falz has established himself as a household name in the Nigerian music industry for his projects often targeted at addressing societal ills through his incredible work as a singer, rapper and actor. Some of his awards are BET Award (2016 Best New International Act), Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (2016 Best Actor in a Comedy), The Headies (2019 Best Rap Single), Headies 2019 (Album of the Year) and the The Headies 2021 (Best Rap Single).

As for Amapiano hitmaker, Kamo Mphela,

her rise to the top in South Africa has been acclaimed. Her passion for dance motivated her choreographed moves, shaking the industry and trailblazing her career, coupled with her timeless collaborations with the likes of Busiswa and DJ Maphorisa. Her credentials for hit songs are evident having contributed to several smash hits over the last two years, including “Sandton” and “Amanikiniki” Good with Amapiano vibes, breakout vocalist, Mpura’s bedtime story has had an incredible year featuring on #1 hit after #1 hit, from club anthem ‘VSOP’ with Mr JazziQ & Riky Rick, to ‘uLazi’ to currently, the biggest song in South Africa, ‘Umsebenzi Wethu’, which has topped multiple streaming charts for months on end.

Mr Eazi’s Visual for ‘The Don’ is Stirring Ferdinand Ekechukwu

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ack in January 2021 Afropop singer-songwriter and entrepreneur, Mr Eazi (Oluwatosin Ajibade) dropped his single “The Don” which reeks of breezy, feel-good elements with his smooth vocals gliding over the top but the highly received track was just incomplete without accompanying visuals. Fast forward two months, and Mr Eazi has captivated fans with not only a music video, but a short Àlm to accredit Don Eazi’s status along with the track.

In the six-minute Àlm, Eazi can be seen driven in the hills while providing commentary leading up to the lively single, proving he’s multi-talented and perfect for the entertainment industry with both acting and singing under his belt. The Don’s video, within 24 hours of release last Monday, recorded over 30,000 views on YouTube. The new video, directed by Babs, starts oͿ with a transportation scene in which ‘The Don’ (Mr Eazi) is broken out of police capture and taken back to the area he rules over.

Thenarrativebehindthevisualstellsthatbehind bars, Eazi had so much control with his jagged deeds. “It’s been very di΀cult to keep him away from contact and the authorities have conÀrmed he’s been sent to a maximum security on the

Mr Eazi and his crew on set of ‘The Don’

Island,” a Àctitious empawa News 24 update had enthused. “The public can therefore be assured that he will never come out or contact again.”

But that was not to be.

The rest of the video shot in Ghana is packed

with striking shots of kids chanting “Don Eazi” and getting tattoos beautifully without smokes, dancers with creepy clown masks and a beautiful waterfall scene. The ghetto state of the area he rules over as The Don, living in mansion and castle,

like he is living in Paradise, is quite a spectacle of visual delight with scenes and improvised arena. “The Don” is one of the scintillating tracks oͿ Mr Eazi’s Something Else EP which debuted February 19 and was produced by Killertunes and E-Kelly.

The Àrst single oͿ the EP, The Don’ gained momentum upon its release and showcases Eazi’s expanding sonic world and music output.

It follows a busy 2020 for the Nigerian recording artiste and African music mogul which saw him expand his emPawa Africa initiative; launch the Africa Music Fund, an innovative Ànancial vehicle designed to make capital available to African artists; and release successful collaborations with Major Lazer/Nicki Minaj and J Balvin, among others.

“I spent the entire year working on building emPawa Africa and morphing into Don Eazi. I almost had no time to record. This project was inspired by Kel P and Killertunes, who kept coming to meet me in Accra until I Ànally recorded ‘The Don.’ That opened the door for me getting back into the studio,” Mr Eazi said prior to the EP release.

Speaking in a recent interview, the Banku music exponent talks about his excitement for what’s still to come from the ever-burgeoning African music scene, saying “I feel like Afropop is at the place hip-hop was in like 1990 or 1991.”

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER APRIL17,2021

19

SHOWBIZFLAIR

Tosin Clegg

07062816737 e-mail: tosinclegg@hotmail.com

Allyson Holds Virtual Concert for New Album

M

ultipleaward-winning singer/song writer, Sola Allyson, held a virtual concert for her newly released album, Isodotun, from Clout Studios, Lagos last weekend. It had in attendance a limited number of guests and large network of online guests via her social media platforms. Allyson, who has nine albums to her credit, has proven she could stand the test of time.

Speaking about the new album, she said:

“Isodotun is the process of being made new.

The way it happens for me is that I sing from the abundance of my spiritual experience. I just don’t think ‘because I’m due for an album let me sing.’

AllysonsingspredominantlyinYoruba,herlocal language, and unapologetically so. Her powerful soul-relaxing voice, combined with her Áuidity in the lyrical presentation of theYoruba language has endeared her works to millions of fans, home and abroad. Her music is transformational, correctional as it is entertaining; she is indeed a woman who is very deep into inspirational music.

Even when you do not understand her language, her voice and the sound of her music communicate deep into your soul.

Low and high frequencies, her music comes from a very pure heart of worship. Anyone of any faith can connect with her music because of the folklore and the embedded truth in her lyrics which transcends religions or segregations but focuses on universal principles and values that promote love and hope, which she believes is the true essence of her faith and beliefs. “I am from The Kingdom to life’s marketplace, a light bearer,” declares Allyson.

Allyson

Audiomack Partners Slum2School to Support Students

Charlotte Bwana, head of business development and media partnerships, Audiomack Africa

Moving music forward means empowering the next generation of creatives and in this light, Audiomack will be donating $5000 worth of tablets and headsets that will support the Slum2School initiative in Africa, which is a volunteer-driven development organization empowering underserved children in slums and remote communities with quality education, entrepreneurial skills and psychosocial support to enable them realize their full potential and become social reformers.

These funds will go towards supporting 38 learners with tablets in the virtual learning

programme, which was designed to combat the impact of COVID-19 on education in disadvantaged communities in Nigeria.

Speaking about the initiative, Charlotte Bwana, Head of Business Development and Media Partnerships, Audiomack Africa, reiterated their commitment to empowering its host communities. She said, “While the pandemic has impacted all aspects of our lives, including the education sector, we recognize the increased gap on children from underprivileged communities as they are unable to access quality education and learning materials.

This donation demonstrates our eͿorts to bridge this gap because we are committed to fostering a world where everyone has the opportunity to learn and prosper.”

Also commenting, Otto Orondaam, Founder of Slum2School Africa said: “We are glad to collaborate with Audiomack who shares in our vision to transform the society by empowering underserved children in slums and remote communities with quality education. We also call on individuals and organizations to support this cause and help make an impact in Nigeria’s educational development”.

AY.COM Signs New Record Deal Ayoola Johnson, popularly known as AY.Com, is no stranger to the African music scene. His debut single, Pass Me Your Love, was released in 2008 and was such a massive hit that it took him on tours to diͿerent places like London, Malaysia, New York, Paris, Sweden to name a few. In 2021, He announced a reÀx of his evergreen hit song, featuring one of Nigeria’s Ànests, Peruzzi- the DMW artiste.

The video of the collaboration was shot by Unlimited LA and is available on YouTube and other streaming platforms.

A.Y. Com has now signed a deal with record label, TNKAY Music Worldwide. The unveiling ceremony was held recently in Lagos and had in attendance the record label’s executives, the media, celebrities and much more.

The session had the artiste and his label talk about their plans, his return to music, how his career would be pushed further among other things.

The record label was founded in 2020 with the vision of making an indelible mark in African music.

AY.Com revealed that he never really left music but only had to focus on his family and watch his kids grow.

He is a fulÀlled man now and he believes that would reÁect in the happiness and joy his music will bring to people.

This artiste is a multi-talented singer, songwriter and poet who believes that true art is a mirror of life. After teaming up with Peruzzi for Pass Me Your Love (the reÀx), he has more music in the pipeline with an upcoming project to be announced very soon.

AY

Maiden Bigi Media Idol Ferdinand Ekechukwu

Obi Asika, winner Rotimi Ige, DJ Sose and Boluwatife Adedugbe, Brand Manager, Rite Foods Ltd

Rotimi Ige of the Nigerian Tribune has emerged winner of the maiden edition of the Bigi Media Idol held last Tuesday in Lagos. The entertainment editor, who contested with other nine journalists, thrilled the audience with his performance of ‘Olufunmi’ by Style Plus. Ige, who on the winning appearance, amazed the audience with his voice and conÀdence on the song “African Queen” by 2face.

Ige, who contested with other nine journalists, went home with a cash

prize of N250, 000. The Àrst runner up got a cash prize of N150, 000 while the second runner up, Funsho Arogundade of PM Express was rewarded with N100, 000. In addition to the cash prizes, all three Ànalists got 10 packs of Bigi products each. Other journalists who participated got a consolation prize of N50, 000 each.

Funsho Arogundade sang “Ade Ori Okin” by Wasiu Ayinde. Arogundade, with massive crowd support from colleagues and friends won the third place with Wasiu Ayinde “Vivid Imagination”. Bigi Media Idol, an initiative of Rite Foods Limited, put

together by TPT PR Àrm, is a replica of the Nigerian Idol reality TV show billed to start next weekend.

The ‘Media Idol’ availed journalists, mostly of entertainment beat, Àrsthand experience of what real contestants normally feel and face while on their quest to woo the judges and audience with their talents and performance. Ace music mogul, Obi Asika and DJ Sose were the judges of the night that witnessed an exchange of light banter, fun and thrills among the organisers, judges and the participating journalists.

Sunny Neji, Asha Gangali, Mathew Ohio Join MCSN Board Festus Akanbi

Three renowned showbiz and business personalities, Sunny Neji, FapohundaAsha Gangali and Matthew Ohio have been appointed into the board of the Musical Copyright Society Nigeria (MCSN) A statement from the organization said the General Council (the Board) of MCSN at its recent meeting received, considered and unanimously approved the nominations of the three music personalities as members of the Society’s board

of directors.

It explained that the nominations and appointments of Sunny Neji andAsha Fopohunda (Asha Gangali) were on the basis of MCSN’s agreement with the Performing Musicians’ Employers’ Association of Nigeria (PMAN), which provides that PMAN would have two seats on the Board of MCSN. “The nomination and appointment of Matthew Ohio on the other hand was based on Matthew’s wide interests and representations in the music industry upon which MCSN would leverage to increase the quality and quantity of

its membership and huge repertoire,” the statement said.

Reacting to his appointment, the statement quoted Sunny Neji, a veteran musician with several years of experience in the music industry, as stating that he accepts “the appointment to sit on the board of MCSN, as it is indeed a privilege to serve in this capacity. I promise to do my best to add value to MCSN and indeed the industry at large.”

“On his part, Asha Fapohunda (Gangali), an established new generation artiste, states that he

gladly accepts the appointment as a director of the MCSN and promised “to work with other Directors in line with the goals and visions of MCSN to become the best Collective Management Organisation (CMO) in Africa and one of the best in the whole world.

“Matthew Ohio, a show biz entrepreneur and an investor in the entertainment industry who has provided a platform for several artistes, said he feels grateful and honoured to be appointed as a director of the Musical Copyright Society of Nigeria (MCSN).

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ APRIL 17, 2021

POLITY

The Much-awaited Dangote Oil Refinery Chidiebere Nwobodo

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ew years ago, any economic pundit that thought of the possibility of a privately-owned petroleum refinery that would have the capacity to meet the needs of Nigeria’s downstream sector, and still export to neighboring countries, would have been tagged a dreamer; hallucinating in the reveries of fantasies.

Even if the prediction came out of the mouth of a known expert, many people would still not had believed him. It would not had been because of pessimism but history of failures of government-run refineries and the inability of the licensed private refineries to hit the ground running, after many years of getting approval.

Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) recently slammed its sledge hammer on investors who defaulted on the terms and conditions embedded in the award of licences for refineries. The regulatory watchdog revoked thirty-two licences for failure of those companies to achieve stipulated milestones, pegged with certain time frame. DPR in the same vain, listed some privatelyowned refineries whose licences were still valid—including Dangote Oil Refinery that is 80.3 percent completion. I imagined that even Alhaji Aliko Dangote, himself, must have doubted the possibility of the idea of building the biggest refinery in Africa, when it first flashed in his mind like a lightening.

Like every great accomplishment in the history of mankind, it first get conceptualized, incubated and birthed. During the gestational stages, the carrier of the idea gets increasingly overwhelmed by its possibilities, which gradually metamorphose into an obsession—a healthy one. At this point, the vessel encapsulating the idea, can no longer stop himself, because he has been overtaken by the monumental concept. If you cannot stop yourself, what else will stop you? nothing.

This is how great accomplishments are born. Aliko Dangote, Africa’s biggest industrialist cum richest man, has blazed a trail in a new frontier. It took more than money and courage to embark on these tedious, tumultuous and humongous projects of building largest refinery in Africa, with world’s biggest single-train facility, simultaneously with a granulated urea fertilizer plant with name-plate annual capacity of three million tonnes of urea and ammonia; making it the largest combined fertilizer facility in the world.

These two major projects, along side other ones, have made Dangote Petrochemical Complex’s Lekki Free Zone the biggest construction site in Nigeria, in the last few years. Money played a huge role, courage gave life to the idea, experience kept it going, spirit of resilience sustained it, but grace made it happened. Give another individual all the monies, experiences and government support like Aliko Dangote, without the grace of this pathfinder, he will still not achieve these giants feats. This is my perception.

It takes grace to build 650,000 barrels/day refinery in a country where government’s four refineries; with combined production capacity of 445,000, have been fumbling for many years now, albeit sadly. Alhaji Aliko Dangote, as a single individual, took on one of the major challenges successive governments could not solved. Petrol crisis has been a hydra-headed monster confronting Nigeria for decades now. Nigeria, with production capacity of 2.5m barrels/day, ranks as largest producer of crude oil in Africa and 6th in the world. Ironically, Nigeria is the only OPEC-member country importing refined petroleum products. In fact, in the last few years, Nigerian government has spent more money in subsiding imported refined products than it would have taken to build state-of-the-art refineries.

A whooping sum of $26.5 billion has been spent so far via Turn

Dangote

Around Maintenance (TAM) for the four refineries, with little or nothing to show for it—the reason the current contract of $1.5 billion signed by Federal Government for Turn Around Maintenance (TAM) of Port Harcourt Refinery has outraged many concerned Nigerians who viewed it as an colossal waste.

Many are of the opinion that we cannot keep reinforcing failures and funding corruption, while other critical sectors are starved of limited funds. The recycled failures of our four refineries is what made Nigeria the only crude oil producing country that depends on imported refined products—a big and crying shame!

This incapacitation in local refining capacity created a bottomless pit of corruption called subsidy regime, where the nation was (still being) hemorrhaged profusely by a cartel of economic saboteurs that took corruption to stratospheric level in the petroleum sector. Importation of petrol has really stretched the nation’s economic string beyond its elastic limit. Our foreign reserves has been seriously depleted, and this has limited the capacity of the Apex bank, the Central Bank of Nigeria, to stabilize the local currency, the naira. These abnormalities have created uncertainties with its attendant vulnerability and volatility in the downstream sector.

An average Nigerian in the street is always terrified and worry-wary of when the next fuel scarcity will hit the town. Petrol sufficiency has eluded this nation for long; we are always few days away from the next scarcity, with its downward spiral of sufferings in the land. Festive seasons are usually riddled with petrol crises, turning supposed moments of celebration to groaning. Incre-

ments in petrol prices usually trigger inflation, simultaneously, thereby making life harder for already impoverished masses.

There is light at the end of the tunnel. Dangote Oil Refinery, according its chairman, will be completed by end of 2021, to begin operation in the first quarter of 2022. This is indeed a cheering news to be celebrated by Nigerians. When operational, the 650,000 per day refinery has the capacity to fill the void; i.e enough capability to meet the nation’s consumption demand of less than 600,000 per day of refined products and still export to other countries.

A country of over 200 million people—the most populous black nation, will for once become self-sufficient in its refining capacity.

This is really a landmark breakthrough in the nation’s chequered history. When this Refinery comes on stream, pressure on our foreign reserves will reduce, naira will become stronger; hundreds of thousands of jobs created for teeming unemployed Nigerians.

And by extension, insecurity will reduce, because mass unemployment cannot be divorced from ravaging insecurity in the country. When a youth is gainfully busy, he will not have the luxury of time to dabble in social vices. Dangote Group owns this refinery but Nigeria and Nigerians will be the highest beneficiaries of the new order that this great national asset is about to herald in our downstream sector. Indeed, Dangote Refinery is coming to the rescue.

Alhaji Aliko Dangote, like him or loathe him, has proven to be a quintessential industrialist and iconic entrepreneur in the contemporary history of African industrial evolution. He did it in cement sector, repeated it in sugar refining; revolutionized commodity productions, and is about to do it again in the petroleum downstream sector.

He is the biggest individual employer of labor after government in Africa. Hundreds of thousands of families get taken care of economically, via jobs created by this visionary goal-getter and audacious investor. Sometimes, I do look at his pictures; and wonder whether he has two heads. how does he manage to carry the pressure of being in this enviable position? I am awed!

There is a school of thought that has attributed most of Aliko Dangote’s achievements to being close to corridors of power that grants him unhealthy monopolistic advantage over his competitors. Even me, I used to harbor this flawed opinion that “Dangote is government pikin”. My perceptive began to change when I started paying close attention to this economic titan and entrepreneurial enigma, several years after leaving the university.

Some of the prejudices, innuendoes and conjectures about African most successful industrialist started fallen off my eyes like a facade. The fallacious propaganda that he is where he is today because of his ethno-religious affinity was punctured, when it dawned me that Alhaji Aliko Dangote has been geometrically rising in profile irrespective of who is Nigeria’s president—whether he is from the north or south.

I realized that Dangote has come to symbolize excellence cum success because greatness is nothing but repeated excellence powered by eagle-eyed vision and unquenchable spirit of resilience. Just imagine for a moment that the consortium led by Aliko Dangote was allowed to take over Port Harcourt and Kaduna Refineries in 2007; should we have been where we are today as a nation regarding refining of petroleum products?

As Nigerians await expectantly to welcome this Refinery on stream few months from now, it is indeed a new dawn in the nation’s downstream sector. The national goal of achieving self-sufficiency in local refining capacity of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), has become reality via the vision of one man—Alhaji Aliko Dangote, GCON. Thunderous applause!

––Nwobodo writes from Abuja via chidieberenwobodo@ yahoo.com

Bayelsa NUJ Chairman: Journalists Should Be Encouraged Tolulope Ibukunoluwa

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hairman, Bayelsa State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrade Samuel Numonengi has called for more support for journalists to enable them function more effectively.

He said the incessant harassment and intimidation of journalists in the country was a major setback that should be nipped in the bud in order to allow for a free and enlightened society.

Numonengi who stated this in Yenagoa, while inaugurating the Solalina Media chapel of the NUJ, said efforts to gag the press would always be an exercise in futility, “as the media in Nigeria has become more fortified to withstand any form of oppression and attacks.”

He said: “The Press should be free. Some people allow themselves to be gagged.

That’s the truth. While in some cases, in some areas, the government tends to want to control the Press. But as journalist, once you are professional and even the government knows that you carry out your duties

effectively without bias, I think that way, it would be hard for them to gag you. That’s one thing I’ve come to understand.

“Once we notice that a particular journalist or media house is being gagged and when we know they are professional in carrying out their duties, we would always come out to stand for them.

“So, in Bayelsa, I want to say we are no longer experiencing that issue of media being gagged and I want to hail journalists in the city because I’m beginning to notice that most of them are professional in carrying out their duties”.

The Bayelsa NUJ boss described poor remuneration and lack of adequate working tools as some of the challenges facing journalist in this part of the world.

“Even government media houses still have the same issues not to talk about the private ones. Yes, there are some private ones who are doing better and tend to have more equipment but upon that, we still see journalist go out, maybe just with their phones, not with the correct tools that should be provided for them by their employers.

“As for the salaries, yes, I will keep saying

it; the take home is not good. I wonder how those working for the private media are coping. We even have some who are not able to pay their workers. So, we always keep calling on government to see the need for media workers, for journalist, to be given needed support, especially in the area of payment of their salaries and allowances.

You’ll see someone just sitting in the office, because he’s working in an oil company, he just sits in his office, under the AC, signs some papers, when he gets tired he goes to their restaurant to rest a little, come back, sit and go.

“But as journalist, we are always working, always thinking. BecaWuse the little time you said, let me just blank out a little, you will lose a lot. So you see us, even while relaxing, we are still working, we don’t have time to really rest and yet our take home is so small.

While congratulating Solalina Media, he charged the executives of the chapel to be very professional in their job and maintain the highest of standards expected of them.

He assured that as the newest member of the NUJ family, they would be fully integrated and accorded all the rights and

privileges other members have.

In his remarks, the Chairman, Solalina Media NUJ chapel, Mbah Okemsinachi Green, described the event as historic and lauded the leadership of the NUJ, assuring that they would not disappoint the council.

“As you people are going back, just be assured, Solanida Media chapel is in safe hands. We will do our best to promote the cause of the NUJ in the discharge of our duty and also ensure that everything goes according to the way it’s supposed to be.

“We will play by the rules and at the end of the day, we will also make sure that more people join us who will promote the Solalina brand, for the fact that it’s a new chapel does not mean that we are new. We have people that are capable, people that have done this before and we have the ability with my Exco”. Solalina Media, are the owners of Niger Delta Connect and Scannews with a strong bias for developmental, investigative and citizen journalism.

The NUJ Chairman was accompanied

by Vice Chairman, Samson Opokuma; Secretary, Ogio Ipigason; former secretary NUJ, Stanley Imgbi and a senior member, Timi Jumbo.

21

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ PRIL 17, 2021

POLITY

W i t h M T F, M u l t i C h o i c e N i g e r i a Beams Nollywood to Global I n v e s t o r s Chigoziem Dike

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n 2014, Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) was rebased from $270bn to $520bn, making it the largest economy in Africa and the 26th largest in the world. This close to 90% increase was attributed to new sectors of the economy not previously captured, one of which was the creative industry. For the first time in Nigeria’s economic history, the value of this industry was captured and one of its subsets – Nollywood – was discovered to have contributed 1.42% to the GDP, an impressive $7.2bn in monetary value. Nollywood has grown to be globally recognized as the second largest film producer in the world, producing about 2500 films a year and generating $590million annually.

Nollywood’s leap in recent times has gone beyond the individual efforts of the players. It is the collaboration of many interventions dedicated to making the film industry home to authentic storytelling. Since the home video boom in the 90s that led to the coinage of ‘Nollywood’, Nigerian films have displayed an impressive capacity to travel beyond the shores to the amazement of many observers.

Though films at the time were of low production quality, the stories they told resonated with Nigerians home and abroad as it reflected the culture and economic situation of the country.

It wasn’t long before Nollywood became the leader in African films where any film from Nigeria was almost seen as a representation of the continent.

This boom resulted in many individuals with little or no filmmaking experience associating themselves with the industry. The downside of this bandwagon effect resulted in a drop in production quality and a promotion of unprofessionalism since some practitioners were untrained.

In the late 90s, the industry witnessed a change through the intervention of MultiChoice Nigeria. The media entertainment company kicked off an initiative - New Directions - to stimulate the growth of emerging filmmakers in the continent with professional trainings of international repute. Renowned filmmakers like Tunde Kelani, the late quintessential Amaka Igwe, Mahmood Ali Balogun and Femi Odugbemi cut their teeth on that program and would not only become masters in the field of storytelling but also institutions.

Through their eyes, other filmmakers were able to understand the craft and business of filmmaking.

MultiChoice has had a knack for investing in local content since it entered the Nigerian market in 1993. These investments are not limited to monetary value alone but extend to talent and capacity

Ugbe

development as well. From sports to movies and even to music, the company has embarked on many interventions such as trainings, conferences and awards that empower and reward talents. One of such interventions is the MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF), the company’s Creating Shared Value initiative.

Similar to New Directions, the ultimate objective of the initiative is to ignite Africa’s creative industries, notably the filmmaking business. MTF has three touchpoints: The Academy, Masterclasses and Portal. The Academy operates in three regions of the continent where the company thrives and is accessible to 13 countries. In West Africa, the Academy hub is in Nigeria while in Southern and Eastern Africa, Zambia and Kenya are the learning hubs. The Academy offers a unique opportunity to young, vibrant and passionate individuals who display an interest in film and television

production. Twenty students are picked from each region and undergo a 12-month all-expense paid educational programme.

The programme exposes the students to the nitty-gritty of filmmaking while expanding their views on the business of filmmaking. Through a comprehensive curriculum comprising theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience in cinematography, editing, audio production and storytelling, the students scale up their learning curve, gaining first-hand knowledge from industry professionals and international institutions made possible by strategic partnerships with Pan-Atlantic University (PAU) Dolby, Henley Business School, Jasco Broadcast Solutions and Nihilent Technologies.

Three years after its launch, 40 young and vibrant talents have graduated from the Academy. The inaugural class had its graduation in 2019 amid fanfare. Students who performed exceptionally well were rewarded with internship scholarships. Examples are Edmund Asamoah who won the scholarship to intern on in Bollywood production in India through the Academy’s partnership with Nihilent and Gilbert Bassey, who emerged Best Overall student in the class. Bassey who recently produced a short film won an 8-week internship scholarship to the New York Film Academy (NYFA) College of Visual and Performing Arts in the US. To encourage and integrate them into the system, the class of 2019 had their project films competing at the 7th edition of the prestigious Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA).

The second set of students eagerly began classes in 2019 with hopes of graduating in 2020. Then the pandemic happened and physical classes became virtual, and like the rest of the world, they had to adjust to the new normal. Notwithstanding the challenges, the class of 2020 which recently had its graduation virtually, benefited more from the programme. Their academic year was extended by six months enabling them take a 3-week intensive New York Film Academy (NYFA) course on the production of micro-documentaries, Public Service Announcements (PSAs) and music videos, thereby earning them to two certificates, one from the Pan-Atlantic University and the other from the New York Film Academy (NYFA) giving them an edge over their contemporaries. They also worked with the United Nations on the global #PledgeToPause campaign, exposing them to global networks.

––Dike a Public Affairs analyst, writes from Abuja.

Read full article online - www.thisdaylive.com

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22

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ APRIL 17, 2021

POLITY Buhari’s Empty Rhetoric, Security and Human Rights Kolawole Olaniyan

P

resident Muhammadu Buhari in his inaugural speech on May 29, 2015 promised expectant citizens that he would: “tackle head on the enormous challenges of insecurity and pervasive corruption. Nigerians will not regret that they have entrusted national responsibility to us.”

Yet, his government is doing very little to address the growing insecurity, widespread corruption, and associated human rights violations in the country.

Available evidence on the ground shows increasing violence, insecurity, and abductions, leading inevitably to arbitrary deprivation of lives, and many other human rights abuses, and illustrating the troubling gap between Buhari’s promise and action.

According to Amnesty International, tens of thousands of people have been killed as a result of violence and serious crimes in many parts of the country. Herdsmen and farmers clashes have worsened under Buhari government’s watch. Several students remain missing after gunmen attacked the Federal College of Forestry in Kaduna state.

Abductions of schoolchildren, teachers and their families have become routine, resulting in closure of over 600 schools, including in Sokoto; Zamfara; Kano; Katsina; Niger; and Yobe states. Those statistics should cause concern to any government. But the Buhari government seems to lack the political will and determination required to address the critical human rights situation.

School closures caused by insecurity and violence have exacerbated existing inequalities, as children who are already most at risk of being excluded from a quality education have been disproportionately affected. Yet, Nigeria has endorsed the Safe Schools Declaration, an inter-governmental political commitment to protect schools, students, and education personnel from being attacked.

To make matters worse, victims of violence, killings and abductions, and their families are left to fend for themselves and rarely receive any effective remedy. Impunity for perpetrators continues to facilitate the repetition of violence and serious crimes, and associated human rights abuses, as well as the total defenselessness of victims and their families. All too often, corruption, the lack of political will, and sometimes negligence to effectively investigate and prosecute violent acts also create a climate that is conducive to a cycle of violence, since society sees no evidence of willingness by the State to take effective action to sanction such acts.

Violence and insecurity are exacerbated by years of corruption in the law enforcement sector, and among the political class. Only recently, the National Security Adviser, Babagana Monguno, reportedly stated that $1 billion arms funds are missing under Mr Buhari government’s watch. Buhari should have seized the

moment, and referred the matter to appropriate anti-corruption agencies for investigation. Instead, Monguno denied making the statement, despite the translated version of the BBC Hausa interview suggesting that he was not misquoted. Many questions remain unanswered, reinforcing the need for an independent investigation to establish the truth.

Corruption ‘kills’, and has a wide range of other corrosive effects on societies. It undermines the rule of law, erodes the quality of life, allows insecurity, violence and other threats to human security to flourish, thus leading to human rights abuses. By diverting funds, corruption exacerbates threats to people’s dignity and livelihood, as it undermines a government’s ability to protect and ensure the human rights of its population. While violence and killings have been a longstanding problem, and predate this administration, the absence of leadership and the requisite political will by Buhari government to genuinely combat the problem, implement human rights reforms and observe the rule of law has continued to exacerbate the problem.

There remain serious shortcomings in the way law enforcement and security agencies work to prevent, deter and suppress violence and serious crimes across the country. Apart from fostering impunity, the absence of effective and corruption-free law enforcement and intelligence apparatus also increases the sense of insecurity within the public and its mistrust of these institutions.

Both the federal and state governments spend roughly $670 million (about N242 billion) yearly as “security votes” but Buhari and the 36 state governors have resisted attempts by civil society groups seeking information on how the funds are spent, and to prevent misuse and embezzlement of public funds in the name of security votes. Violence, abductions, and corruption intersect where law enforcement agencies are corrupt and, in some cases, complicit in gross violations of human rights. The milieu into which violence, abductions, and corruption merge is extremely threatening to the rule of law and respect for human rights in the country. The failure of the federal and state governments to recognize the centrality of this trinity is one factor that continues to allow this nexus to flourish.

The rhetoric of Buhari’s promise is further illustrated by the government’s apparent unwillingness to design and implement credible policies to prevent and combat violence and crimes, and to promote the rule of law. The issue of people’s security and safety has for too long taken the back-seat. Yet, it is the duty of any serious government to guarantee the human rights to life and security of the population.

This failure to exercise responsibility to promote and ensure the security and safety of the population constitutes a serious breach of the Nigerian government’s human rights obligations, including under the Nigerian Constitution 1999 (as amended), and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights to which Nigeria is

a state party. Both the Nigerian Constitution and the African Charter guarantee and protect the rights to life, physical integrity, and liberty among others relating to people’s security. As a corollary, the government is required to ensure the effective functioning and operation of governmental apparatus and, in general, all the structures through which public power is exercised, so that it is capable of juridically ensuring the free and full enjoyment of human rights.

It is not sufficient to abstain from violating this right: positive and specific measures are also required to respond to the needs of those who require protection because of the specific risks they face or their situation of marginalization and discrimination. The main purpose is to ensure that no one is arbitrarily deprived of their lives, and other human rights. Clearly, mere promises are not enough. The government must move swiftly to match its words with serious and concrete action to guarantee the human rights of all people in Nigeria if it is to be taken seriously on its oft-expressed commitment to stop the persistent corruption, violence, abductions and other human rights crimes.

It’s important for the Buhari government to urgently end the impunity that continues to facilitate a culture of official corruption, violence, abductions and killings across the country, and to ensure access to justice and effective remedies for victims. Buhari should promptly refer the allegation by his National Security Adviser to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission for thorough and transparent investigation, and to ensure suspected perpetrators are brought to justice, and the recovery of any missing public funds.

The federal and state governments should honour freedom of information requests, including by the anti-corruption watchdog Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project seeking access to information in the spending of security votes meant to secure people’s lives and other human rights. Similarly, Buhari’s government must end its persistent refusal to implement court orders, including the judgment by Justice Hadiza Rabiu Shagari ordering the government to tell Nigerians about the stolen assets it allegedly recovered, with details of the amounts involved.

Doing this would contribute to improving the security of the people and guaranteeing the rule of law, as well as respect for human rights. As Aristotle pointed out: “It is better for the law to rule than one of its citizens, so even the guardians of the laws are obeying the laws.” Buhari needs to end slogans and empty rhetoric, wake up to his responsibility, and act before the insecurity situation gets worse. Addressing the people on his strategy for tackling the problems should be the easiest place to start.

–––Olaniyan, author of Corruption and Human Rights Law in Africa, is legal adviser at Amnesty International’s International Secretariat, London. kolawoleolaniyan@yahoo.co.uk.

Ugwuanyi’s Exceptional Strides Ebere Wabara

W

hen Barrister Sullivan Chime held sway in Enugu State, I never believed that his successor would better his record because he appreciated and delivered the essence of good governance. I also never knew that Sullivan was just another Sundiata of ancient Mali Empire laying a solid foundation for Rt.Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, who, over time, has become the Mansa Musa (who took over the reins of government from Sundiata) not of Mali but the Coal State.

Musa was so exceptional that his name and personality became synonymous with the ancient kingdom and was acknowledged by one and all globally. Of course, Musa’s accomplishments became so quintessential that his name featured on the list of the world’s greatest leaders at the time. Ugwuanyi, from all indications, is exponentially turning to another Musa in Enugu State.

Lest I am misconstrued, not all governors (or other leaders, as the case may be) perform creditably in administration. There would always be exceptions—just like other issues in life, but the rule of the thumb is that expectations are usually high when such people are given tasks at summit level. In the same breath, even my ideals here may not be exemplars to a few hypercritics, who, naturally, have the inalienability of personal reservations and grouses about men of accomplishments in the eyes of the largest spectrum of the society. It is critical and germane to underscore this fact as we holistically examine what makes the Enugu taciturn revelation tick.

Since Ugwuanyi took charge in Enugu State, I have never come across any form of criticism from any source whatsoever. I stand to be challenged! What my eyes and ears are bombarded with are illimitable laudatory remarks. The kernel of the profiling is that the man has performed superlatively beyond anyone’s imagination in a country where governance has no credibility of any measure.

Since the revalidation of democracy in Nigeria in 1999, the South East has been unfortunate with those who occupy the Government House. On a comparative note with other regions in the country, this axis is the worst in terms of virtually all parameters of development, particularly social infrastructure institutionalization. Apart from self-help human capital transformation, there is probably nothing else to cheer about in celebratory satiety.

Again, there had been exceptions like the late Dr. Samuel Onunaka Mbakwe (De Sam) of the old Imo State, Barrister Chime (aforementioned) and business icon, Mr. Peter Obi, former governor of Anambra State. It is important to note that, unlike the ubiquitous and loquacious governors who celebrate sinking of boreholes in their states (which a few youth corpers also do as part of their exceptional community service!) in this age with all the superfluous funds, particularly unaccounted security vote, at their disposal, Gburugburu does not engage in propaganda, obscenity of transnational wealth acquisition and other forms of audacious revelry and executive banditry.

You can now comprehend the correlation between the foregoing prefatory lines and this obviously dispassionate article in toast to a man that has the inclination to make a difference and even irrefutably better the records of the industrious and illustrious beacons mentioned earlier. His achievements since becoming the governor of Enugu State inimitably speak volumes. I doubt if there is any governor—serving and past—who has the kind of creditable public perception, across-the-board endorsement and pan-Nigeria/universal aplomb that Ugwuanyi has.

There is no doubt anywhere about the quality and quantum of governance in Enugu State, the magnitude of infrastructural renewal, interventionist disposition to natural disasters, investments in the education sector, public healthcare, agricultural transformations, housing and urban development, security that has made the state the most peaceful in the country, youth upgrade, mass employment opportunities and sporting upscale.

These are the issues that have made the 57-year-old governor a referential leader who incontrovertibly towers above all his colleagues.

The unassailability of his leadership manifestations makes him especial among the entirety of his peers. Ugwuanyi’s leadership credentials are so ingenuous that most people would wonder endlessly what is it that makes this man tick and uniquely different from the pack. Another interesting aspect of this amazing governor is that even people in the rural areas of the state testify to the man’s beneficence as much as the urbanites. He certainly is not one of those governors who manage to give a semblance of leadership in the state capital to the exclusivity of other critical components of the state. If any corporate citizen or entrepreneur is looking for a place to reap fortunes from their investments, Enugu is the choicest area.

Ugwuanyi

Ugwuanyi’s service to Enugu State, the South East and the generality of humanity is testamentary and unparalleled. His is a life dedicated to public good in all spheres of existential humanism. It has never happened in the South East particularly and, as they say, Nigeria generally. Ugwuanyi deserves daily toast for his indelible footprints of unprecedented latitude that smacks of incomparability.

Just last week, the fifth Archbishop, Metropolitan and Primate of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Most Rev. Henry Chukwudum Ndukuba, expressed the church’s confidence in Governor Ugwuanyi’s administrative competency: “You are one of the young men in politics we can look up to and have confidence that this nation has a future…through your leadership, this state will continue to grow from strength to strength.” What else do I need to add, especially coming from my church’s leader in Nigeria?

Read full article online - www.thisdaylive.com

23

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPA P PER ˾ PRIL 17, 2021

POLITY

Drug War: Marwa, Lai Mohammed Push for Advocacy Olaoluwakitan Babatunde

L

ess than three months in the saddle as Chairman/ Chief Executive of the National Drug Law Enforcee ment Agency, NDLEA, the facts and figures on arrests of drug traffickers, seizures and prosecutions speak volumes about the vigour and passion Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd) has brought into one of the most dangerous wars being fought by countries against drug cartels across the world.

This much was revealed in his remarks while on an advocacy visit to the Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed on Thursday in Abuja.

Marwa said: “It gladdens my heart to inform the Hon. Minister that despite our constraints, we have in less than three months in the saddle, been able to seize drugs and cash worth over N75 billion, with the arrest of 2,175 drug traffickers and the seizure of 2,050,766.33 kilogrammes of assorted illicit drugs as well as the filing of about 2,000 drug cases in court with 329 convictions and 1,549 pending cases in court.

“These figures are less than what could have been on the streets destroying the lives of innocent youths, our women and men. With the support of your office and those of your agencies, we’ll be able to save millions of Nigerians from being afflicted with the menace of drug abuse.”

Having achieved this feat in such a short time in office under the agency’s new maxim of “offensive action”, it’s obvious Marwa is out to push for another win but this time a massive advocacy campaign that will save over 180 million Nigerians from falling into the drug abuse ring and equally save those already afflicted by the menace.

Without mincing words, he opened up on how he intends to pursue the advocacy phase of the battle. The NDLEA boss said: “Recently, through intelligence based operations, we were able to arrest some drug traffickers; one a Nigerien and another a Chadian in Niger state and Taraba state respectively, who supplied illicit drugs to insurgents and bandits.

“As much as we’re disrupting their drug supply chain through law enforcement, we also need to work hard on our drug demand reduction through advocacy programmes, which are mostly publicity driven. This visit therefore is to leverage on the Hon Minister’s posii tion to drive our advocacy programmes at little or no cost because it’s an open secret that NDLEA has over the years been left behind in terms of funding among other law enforcement agencies including those established years after us.

“For instance, we need to run a weekly 30 minutes network programme on NTA and Radio Nigeria to reach Nigerians on the dangers of drug abuse; we need to reach those at the grassroots with our messages in various Nigerian languages packaged in jingles and others. We don’t have the resources to pay for all of these and this is why we need partnership with the Ministry of Information and its agencies to be able to reach millions of Nigerians and save them from the drug scourge.”

And here, he finds an ally in the Minister, Lai Mohammed, who commended Marwa for his string of achievements, very impressive achievements, in the less than three months after he assumed office.

The minister said: “These achievements, I am reliably informed, include restoring the visibility of the NDLEA for local and internaa tional partnership; boosting the morale and confidence of staffers;

Lai Mohammed and Buba Marwa

attracting international support and ‘’offensive action’’ against drug cartels that has led to the arrest of 2,175 drug traffickers, seizure of 2,050,765.33 kilogrammes of illicit drugs as well as cash and drug seizures worth N75 billion.”

According to the minister, “the war against illicit drugs and tackling drug trafficking is one of the most important tasks in our country today: “This is because drug trafficking, money laundering by traffickers and the use of illicit drugs are closely linked to the nation’s security, well being of the citizens, the moral fabric of our society and even governance. It is common knowledge that drug money can be used to finance insurgency and terrorism. A successful fight against drug trafficking will therefore help to deny or reduce funding for insurgency.

“The kind of vicious banditry and kidnapping for ransom that our country has witnessed in recent times cannot be totally separated from illicit drug use and their effects on users who take to crime.

Drug trafficking proceeds are sometimes ingested into legitimate businesses, making hard working and honest people look indolent.

“What about the effect of drug trafficking on the moral fabric of the society. This society rarely questions the source or sources of people’s wealth. That’s why drug traffickers end up becoming role models in the society, with devastating consequences for our young ones. Even

Kwara PDP Moves to Reconcile Kwara APC Faction Protests Defected Members Ahead 2023 Inclusion of Gov’s Sister in Elections Appeal Committee Hammed Shittu in Ilorin

P

eoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kwara State has commenced move to reconcile all the old members, who dumped the party in the build up to the last general elections in 2019.

The party said that the development would assist it to perform very well during the next general elections in 2023.

Notable politicians that dumped the PDP in 2019 included former chairman of Federal Character Commission, Professor Shuaib Abdulraheem, a current member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abdulganiyu Cook-Olododo, Hon. Moshood Mustapha, Alhaji Saliu Mustapha, Alhaji Yinka Aluko, among others.

Addressing newsmen in Ilorin yesterday, shortly after the inauu gural meeting of the PDP reconciliation and contact committee, the chairman,Alhaji Kawu Baraje, said that no efforts would be spared in bringing back old members of the party who have joined other political parties.

Baraje added that the committee would also visit the nooks and crannies of the state to meet with aggrieved members of the party, reconcile and bring them back.

He assured that the grievances of those that have left for other parties and the aggrieved ones who are still in the party’s fold would be genuinely and holistically addressed.

Thechairmanalsodisclosedplanstomeetwitheverystakeholderof the party, including youth and women, with a view to iron out issues and bring the party to unison ahead of the 2023 general elections.

“We have also resolved that those who have openly expressed their grievances will form those that we will fi first meet. There are many of our stakeholders who deserve to be consulted. We will go to such people. We will not wait to invite them. We will give them the respect they deserve by visiting them.

“We are also aware there are so many aggrieved voices within our party and we have identifi ified the various levels that are available.

We have listed them and we intend to interact with all of them.

Hammed Shittu in Ilorin

faction of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kwara State, known as Integrity Group, has kicked against the inclusion of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s elder sister, Senator Khairat Gwadabe in the 61-member APC national revalidation/appeal committee.

The committee was setup following allegation by a group that it was disenfranchised during the registration and revalidation exercise in the state, which was marred by intra-party crisis.

Inthestatement,signedbythegroup’smediadirectorandpublicity, Comrade Abdulrahoof Bello, the group said “the appointment of Hajia Gwadabe is fraught with illogicality, nepotism and assault on democratic values.

“If the objective of the 61-member appeal committee is to rectify injustice that arose from the controversial membership registraa tion and revalidation exercise in the state, then Hajia Gwadabe is unsuitable and noble mission of the committee stands defeated on arrival,” he said.

The group added that the appointment of Gwadabe signifi ified personifi ification of injustice to Kwara StateAPC members in view of herallegedroleinthestate’smembershipregistrationandrevalidation exercise. The people also wondered,”to whom shall we report when justice lies in the hands that wronged? Here was a governor’s sister who worked in tandem with Senator John Danboi-led committee to commit all sorts of atrocities and impunities against the party’s interest in the state.

“On a good authority, the appointment of Governor Abdulrahh manAbdulrazaq’s sister was a subterfuge to reincarnate the odious godfather politics already rejected by Kwarans with the popular votes given to our party in 2019 general elections.

“As far asAPC constitution allows us, if the national caretaker feels that it is only Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq and his family members alone that it could work with, then we need no soothsayer to predict that APC is facing a prospect of self-immolation.”

governance is not spared. Drug traffickers and money launderers contest and win elections into high offices, where they help shape policy. Just imagine the damage this can do to governance and indeed to any nation. “This is why I want to once against commend Gen. Marwa for raising the bar in the fight against drug cartels and the use of illicit drugs with the new maximum offensive action.’’

After the commendation comes the alliance and push for advocacy to reach millions of Nigerians on the risks of abusing or trafficking illicit drugs and ultimately save the youths, men and women from the pangs of the scourge.

The Information minister said: “The Federal Ministry of Informaa tion and Culture will work with you to give maximum publicity to your activities, especially in the area of advocacy. To date, we have launched a number of national campaigns. It will not be a bad idea for the Ministry, working with the NDLEA, to launch a national campaign against drug trafficking and use of illicit drugs.

“I will also encourage the NDLEA to work with the National Orientation Agency (NOA), which has set up Integrity Clubs in Secondary Schools nationwide, to reach the young ones with its campaign against drug use”, the Minister submitted, giving a strong indication that another phase of the campaign against the drug war may be in the offing.”

Kebbi Reassures of Sustaining Financial Transparency

K

ebbi State Government has reassured its citizens of their commitment to sustain transparency in governance.

The Permanent Secretary, Kebbi State Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning Aisha Muhammad stated this in Sokoto yesterday at a workshop organised in collaboration with OXFAM, European (EU) Development Exchange Center (DEC) and Open Government Partnership (OGP) Nigeria.

The permanent secretary said the government was willing to fiscal transparency partner with any agency that could promote fi in the state.

“Transparency and accountability in governance would give confi nfidence to investors to invest in the state, we don’t have anything to hide, as our doors are open all the time,” she added.

On her part, the state’s Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice Salamatu Adamu said the state joined OGP because it had nothing to fear.

She stated that the initiative was supported by the rule of law and anticorruption (ROLAC) funded by the EU. According to her, the state has taken a step further having signed up to the OGP to fi finalise its OGP state action plan (SAP) 2021 to 2022.

Alsospeaking,UsmanFaleye,coordinatorgovernanceandinfl nfluenccing OXFAM said the gesture encourages fi fiscal transparency, access to information , citizens participation and innovation needed for inclusive development and effi fficient service delivery for it citizens.

Faleye further stated that with the steps taken by Kebbi State, it has become the third state in Northern Nigeria to have an approved SAP. On his part, Olumide Ojo, the Resident Private Sector Engagement Partnership Manager OXFAM said the journey towards institutional reform was long but possible with commitment, saying the aim of the workshop was to enhance capacity development and bring people in, as active participants in governance.

He added that transparency and accountability in governance empower and strengthen governance system.

He further explained that the vulnerable and less privileged have their voices heard in governance.

24

˜ ˾ APRIL 17, 2021

MEDIAGAFFES

EXPRESSION

BY

Wrong: ‘Next Week Tuesday’

“F

CT reintroduces park and pay (park-and-pay) policy in Abuja” An aside: where else would the FCT have reintroo duced the policy if not Abuja?

“Osimhen offers to help amputee pure-water (sachet water in formal environments like newspapers and official/standard communication) hawker” “Thus, it’s no surprise to see her blossom into a world class (world-class) actress and film maker” “Gunmen kill 9, kidnap 25 along (on) Kaduna-Kachia road” (News around the city, April 7) The abduction took place at a particular spot on that road—not along, except, of course, there was resistance!

“Doctors, judicial workers, lecturers (lecturr ers’) strikes ground Nigeria” (NATIONAL NEWS, April 7) “Users testify about (to) newfound sex enhancer” “Gunmen kill catholic (Catholic) priest in Benue” “Furore over Reps (Reps’) public hearr ing on Nigeria (Nigerian/Nigeria’s) missions abroad” Again, where would the missions have been located? Maybe Ajegunle!

“Sanwo-Olu inaugurates 6-man panel to probe impasse on (in) VC race” “…sensitise (sensitize, preferably) the populace on (to) the operational methods of traffickers….” “…so that children (childless) couple (couples) would embrace it to have children instead of patronising (again, patronn izing) baby factories.

“When a political party and a governor has (have) a vision….” (Politics & Power, March 24) “NPA suspends export receipts at Lagos ports, clamps down (clamps down on) illegal jetty operators” “The billionaires listed as presenters of the book at (on) the occasion to be chaired by….”

“Ekiti CP orders security beef up (beef-up)” “…a media practitioner (professional) wrote

from Lagos” “…dissects the honour amidst (amid) the push for the ex-governor to succeed….” “…in one of the stand out (stand-out) fixtures of the Premier League.” “…the fixture also presents in-form Nigeria (Nigerian) striker….”

“Vietnamese-Nigeria (Nigerian) striker bemoans league ban” “No doubt, your track record of doggedness, visionary leadership and commitment to excellence have (has) been inspiring to….” Get it right: the track record of…has (not have—the long list of accomplishments notwithstanding) “If you want to gain insights on (to) the secrets of wealth management” (First Bank full-page advertisement, March 27, THISDAY) “The onus is now on the 19 year old (sic) to cash-in (cash in) on the situation and win the heart of the….”

Wrong: “Next week Tuesday….” (Silverbird Rhythm 93.7 7 a.m. Bulletin, March 19); right: Next Tuesday or Tuesday, next week. ‘Next week Tuesday’ is sub-literacy!

“Today, we celebrate our flag-bearers, those who go the extra mile to put You Firs Happy Customer Service Week: standardbearers; not ‘flag-bearers’ which, unfortunately, has been subjected to notoriety by non-ideologg ical Nigerian politicians and popularized by a few unintellectual colleagues of mine!

“Several videos shared on social media showed some of the protesters bolting away from the tear gas….” According to my copious dictionaries and other reference books, ‘bolt’ means “to suddenly run somewhere very quickly, especially in order to escape or because you are frightened.” Therefore, there is no room for ‘away’. Often times, you hear or read: “The armed robbers bolted away before the police arrived.” The bandits simply bolted before…. “…he is unable to do same (the same) in….”

“Kwara Express staff seek governor’s intervention on (in) company’s N36.9m debt” “Did you bought cake for me…?” (Facebook post, October 8) No comment!

“Just imagine a young man that rounded up his apprenticeship as a welder.” This is an indication of the current malaise in scholarship: a situation where a lecturer cannot distinguish between phrasal verbs, ‘round up’ and ‘round off’ (which applies here).

“Will anybody please let us know which country became a super-power by allowing its best brains to roam about the world?” ‘Roam’ encompasses ‘about’.

“News from the universities are no longer about innovation.…” News is news (uncountt able). “The condition, which is said to be due to an abnormality in either the number or structure of the chromosomes, cuts across every races.” Get it right: every race or all races.

“Janet, a twelve-year-old and the third child of her parents’ four offsprings and the only one with the problem…” ‘Offspring’ is non-count.

“Since 1993, funding of oil exploration have (has) been beset by different levels of problems.”

“In answering this question we classify the outcomes into long term and short term implications.” The greatest problem of journall ists: unnecessary embellishment (outcome) of words.

“This is clearly a danger signal as the time between discovering an oil field and comm mercially putting it on stream could be between four to five years.” No analysis: between four and five or from four to five years.

“THISDAY checks reveal that every terminaa tion penalties goes from 500,000 US dollars to 2 million US dollars”. Check the discord as already discussed above.

“Lack of funds cripple waste management activities” Another error of attraction: Lack of funds cripples.

“Nevertheless, the donor country is also interested in this decision to ensure that the loan is repaid as at when due with its accrued interest.” Without any periscope: the loan is repaid when due (not as at when due which is pleonastic).

“Government should consider the destructive effect that further delay in the sale of ‘shaky’

GreatNation,PoorPeople:EconomicSabotage

T

his is our third attempt at understanding and accepting the ugly facts that our actions and reactions combine to produce the much maligned leadership that we have been saddled with over the years, and invariably underscore the conflicted and grossly underwhelming followership that we have allowed ourselves to fall into.

The signs are there in our business practices and commercial interactions. Of course, we shy away from headless generalisations, such that no human organisation or activity is absolutely admirable or deplorable. There are always exceptions to the norm. There is a Prof. Is-haq Olarewaju Oloyede in the fairly long history of JAMB superstructure; there was a Prof.

Dora Akunyili in the storied history of NAFDAC. And this is not to suggest that greatness is the cornerstone of only the Ivory Tower.

We will quickly remind you that a professor of soil science from the University of Calabar is currently in jail for electoral fraud... and many others under prosecution, or serving sentences, for embezzlement, misappropriation, sexual harassment, sex-for-grades malfeasance, etc. Surely, no area of human life is safe from infamy.

Yet, we all know that most small to medium scale businesses have been destroyed, beyond resuscitation, by thieving and disgruntled workforce. The other day, we saw a video showing farm hands in a poultry business being searched after close of work. Of course, the ordinary demeaning body search of workers after putting several hours of labour should be condemned, and be eradicated forthwith. But wait a minute: of the two women featured in the short video, one of them, as if seduced by Esu Elegbara, the ancient Yoruba god of wilful misery, mischief and trickery, brought from different cavities under her voluminous garment, more than twenty eggs! No, not kidding!

A casual calculation suggests that if she does that about three times every week, along with three quarters of her colleagues, there are no religious and prudential interventions that would save that company from going under. Then, the loudest growls of delayed salaries, nonavailability of health and protective facilities, poor wages and such inadequacies would be championed by the leading pilferers - the most creative and undetected fraudsters.

When we are not working hard to kill some other person’s business, by stealing it dry, we are at the borders smuggling contrabands and such fancy consumables that many of us will virtually break our necks to purchase, and impress, or oppress, our neighbours. Without scruples that by such gluttonous acquisition, we join economic saboteurs in depleting and diminishing the opportunities of homegrown businesses to be in operation, to make profits, to pay salaries and other emoluments - and thus keep the industrial and commercial souls of the nation thriving

and sustaining.

We have no qualms smuggling expired drugs into the country, so far we can make millions over the top; nor do we care when we set up shop in some dinghy area of our community; whip out some sort of “research and development” workshop or factory, merrily producing drugs, aphrodisiacs, condiments and solutions with stunning similarities, in packaging, to authentic alternatives.

You may even see on our roads, during slow traffic, supernatural portions of biblical or oriental origins, with potency to cure all, make rich, or indestructible… peddled by people who look far from the consequences of the stuff they want others to benefit.

We do not seem to worry about the attendant deaths and devastation wrecking many homes across the nation as a result of selling adulterated, unhygienically produced, fake products. We just want the money as the bottom line! Daily, we enact schemes and subterfuges to outwit regulatory bodies at every turn: we bribe our way, using cash, influence or mysticism to hoodwink NAFDAC, for example, so that our products can flood the streets without going through statutory rigour of regulatory procedures.

This kind of villainy is not restricted to the struggling cadres of Nigerians. Some big companies and large organisations also fleece their customers, deliberately or inadvertently, with little or no reprimand or sanction from governmental bodies, or consumer protection agencies.

Banks charge you for all sorts of services, that elsewhere, are taken for granted as an inclusive framework of banking. Here, you pay for transferring your own money electronically from one bank to another; the electronic service you have also been forced to pay a surcharge monthly. They assure you that only after three withdrawals from a sister bank would you be surcharged for using their ATMS; but even the first and only withdrawal will snatch at your balance.

Many Nigerians have scars, tender and tear-jerking, that were inflicted by con-artistes, sometimes in seeming collusion with bank workers. Nigerian scammers have now snowballed into a massive enterprise with fangs in different layers of financial services, always upfront and inventive with ingenious schemes and highly camouflaged charades to bamboozle and burglarize the hard-earned resources of unsuspecting Nigerians.

Yet, big-time business leaders have racked up debts so big that the government had to create an amorphous bank to buy up those system-wrecking loans and bad debts; perhaps to somehow redeem some of them down the line. These are loans and overdrafts that you hear about and blink several times, wondering what sort of collaterals were accepted to release such humongous amounts; and why such collaterals could not be amortised to defray substantial part of these so-called bad

EBERE WABARA

ewabara@yahoo.com, 08055001948

banks would mete out on the banking system”.

Stock phrase: mete out to (not on) the banking system.

“If the family cannot truely relish at least a decent meat….” Spelling counts: truly.

“A man does not have to be a money bag (sic) before he can dress well and look charming in his own little way.” Brighten up your English usage: A man does not have to be moneybags…. Moneybag is a sac! “…in addition, (sic) to dispensing drugs for immediate relief and giving counsel on the steps necessary to prevent a reoccurrence.”

Good grammar: recurrence. “…it sent the signal that those responsible for the security of lives and properties in Oyo State are working at cross-purposes”. Some caution, please: life and property.

“The arsonists usually escape with their loot as the embattled market lays in ashes, leaving many traders terminally ruined financially.”

There should be no dilemma: ‘lays’ for ‘lies’? “…Nehemiah whose determined efforts to rebuild the tottering walls of Jerusalem was (were) undertaken purely out of love for his country.” “…analyst whose intellectual prowess and deep understanding of social issues knew no bound (bounds).”

“Poly senior staff union gives FG 21-days to address IPPIS complications” (Source: as above).

This way: 3-week or 3 weeks’ ultimatum—not 21-days Corrigendum following last week’s inadd vertent misrepresentation here: “The yearnings for the special status for Lagos is (are)….”

Thanks to the 70-year-old elder-statesman who pointed out this mix-up. More constructive and highly-appreciated observations, questions (clarifications/elucidations), interventions and general contributions are welcome from all readers. The essence is to make this column an interactive and all-inclusive platform for the exchange of cerebral perspectives.

COUNTERPOINT

FEMI

AKINTUN AK NDE E-JOHNSON fajalive1@gmail.com 08182223348 - (SMS Only)

debts. Many companies, and banks, have collapsed because of sharp practices and irresponsible underhanded deals which were subsequently squandered on unrelated and unprofitable ventures and acquisitions. Airlines, manufacturers, assemblies, exporters, etc, have shut down for sundry reasons; but we have hardly seen many prosecuted for squandering public funds entrusted to banks and hedge funds.

The Telcos are a different beast entirely. Flushed with Nigerians penchant for talking and browsing the internet as a means of distractions and trips away from painful realities, the owners of airtime and data sponge us with friendly ferocity. They spend heavily on advertisement and entertainment to excite and animate us. And when we respond in kind, we get sucked in. Assured that bonus plan of certain amount would fetch one a huge gigabyte of data for a whole month - and you, caressed by the colourful flourish and limitless resources of the internet, plunge in, for hours… only to be jolted out of your reverie, few days after, by a terse notification warning you to reload so as to avoid being cut off their network, as you are about to exhaust your data. How? Where? When? Who do you ask these questions? Surely, not the Telcos (who are busy designing other means to cream you up for another hit); not the NCC (whose high officials sometimes end up on the boards of Telcos); or is it the government (whose officials behave as if your complaints are part of their political opponents’ propaganda machinery?

Taxation and evasion are issues woolly and worrisome in this clime. Many, corporately and individually, have developed plans and processes that challenge the efficacy and capacity of revenue collection agencies. We deign to pay taxes because we have hundreds of reasons why the government does not deserve a portion of our sweat; however a system not fully accommodated in unreliable periods would not suddenly correct itself, and swiftly become sacrosanct when we achieve a modicum of a dependable society.

Truth be told: we all are part of our problems - the governed and the government, especially in areas of public and private accountability in the management and intercourse of economic interests. Worrisome.

SATURDAY APRIL 17, 2021 • T H I S D AY

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ APRIL 24, 2011

GLOBAL SOCCER A

WEEKLY PULL-OUT

17.04.2021

NEWS

TUCHEL OR PEP: WHO BLINKS FIRST?

Ahmed Musa Back to His Roots

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ ͹Ϳ, 2021

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GLOBAL SOCCER

Ahmed Musa in Kano Pillars shirt before leaving for Europe

Ahmed Musa set for a second stint with Kano Pillars

Ahmed Musa

Back to His Roots

After leaving the Saudi Arabian League, he turned down a move to Sheffield Wednesday. After also missing out on a move to West Bromwich Albion, Southampton and Wolverhampton Wanderers, Super Eagles’Captain, Ahmed Musa, has signed a short-term deal with the club he cut his football teeth - Kano Pillars - and reactions have been trailing the decision of the former Leicester of England winger

A

hmed Musa is not the first high profile Nigerian player to return home from Europe to join the domestic league, and he would probably not be the last. Former Nigerian international, Rashidi Yekini famously joined Julius Berger football club of Lagos after an illustrious career in Europe.

After his stint with Derby County, Africa Cup of Nations gold medallist, Ambrose Efe was training with Kaduna United before returning to Europe to join Scottish side, Liivinstone.

In fact, one of the reasons the Brazilian League is still very strong and popular today is the fact that their players are always quick to return to the home league after spells in the European league. From Romario Farai to Ronaldo Dalima, to Ronaldinho to Rivaldo, all returned to Brazil to help the growth of the domestic league after spells in Europe.

What however makes Musa’s case a bit strange is the fact that he is still at the height of his career, which is why followers of the game are raising eyebrows.

In a telephone chat with former Nigerian international, Paul Okoku, he said Ahmed Musa took the best decision by returning home to help the growth of the Nigerian Professional Football League.

“Its just a shame that crowds are no longer allowed into stadium because of Coronavirus, I just could not imagine how many people Musa’s presence would have attracted in the stadium during NPFL games. His coming to

play in the home league for his childhood club is good public relations for the local league,” Okoku noted.

Okoku charged Nigerian footballers in Europe that had played at the highest level but have seen their career dwindling to come home to help develop the local league.

Former Senator from Kaduna State and human rights activist Shehu Sani was not left out in the reactions to Musa’s joining his childhood club is generating.

“Ahmed Musa’s return to Kano Pillars is one of the best strategies to improve and attract interest in our local football teams and National league. After global, come local, it’s better than hanging and idling in Europe. There will always be a place for you at home,” Sani said.

With the Africa Cup of Nations less than a year away, the captain of Nigeria is desperate to get back on the pitch as soon as possible.

A few months ago, Musa was tearing up a staggering £31 million contract at Al-Nassr and dreaming of a return to the Premier League.

But after potential moves to the likes of Southampton, Burnley, Brighton, Wolves and Newcastle United failed to materialise, the one-time Leicester City forward would just be happy to play for anyone, in any league, these days.

And it seems that desperation could see Musa, who hasn’t played a single minute of club football since October, make a shock return to his homeland with four-time Nigerian champions Kano Pillars.

Musa has been a free agent since parting

ways with Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr on October 25, 2020.

“Super Eagles captain, Ahmed Musa, has sensationally returned to Kano Pillars FC for the remainder of the 2020/21 Nigeria Professional Football League season (NPFL),” a statement from the Kano Pillars website read.

“Musa previously played for the Pride of Kano in 2009 where he ended the season as the top scorer in the Nigeria Professional Football League with 18 goals before moving to VVV-Venlo in the Netherlands.”

According to Kano Pillars, they agreed to the deal after ‘due consultations’ with the player and the League Management Company ‘who stand as a mediator to the deal’.

To this effect, Musa joins his boyhood club as an elite player of the league until the end of the 2020-21 campaign.

After completing all necessary documentation, the Super Eagles captain would be unveiled by the Governor of Kano State, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, before the start of the league’s second stanza.

“After speaking with the Governor and chairman of the League Management Company, LMC (Nigeria league’s governing body) I am considering playing some games for Kano Pillars,” explains Musa, who played for the club between 2009 and 2012.

“Anything that improves the image of Nigerian football is something I strive to embark on and Kano Pillars holds a special place in my heart.

“It’s the team that helped me become the

professional footballer I am today, so this is more than just football but a very strong bond.”

Speaking in February, West Brom manager Sam Allardyce admitted the Baggies couldn’t offer Musa a contract after completing a number of other winter signings.

Musa began his European expedition at Eredivisie side VVV Venlo and his impressive performance in the Dutch side saw him sign for Russian topflight side CSKA Moscow.

Having won three Premier League titles, one Russian Cup and two Russia Super Cups with the Horses in his four-year spell, he joined Leicester City on July 8, 2016, for a club record of £16.6 million at that time.

Following his inability to tie down a regular place at the King Power Stadium, he was sent back to CSKA Moscow on loan, before teaming up with Al Nassr in 2018 on a permanent deal.

The Asian outfit beat several European clubs to the signing of the speedy forward who impressed at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia with two goals in three matches.

His presence would serve as a big boost for Sai Masu Gida who are in the race to emerge as Nigerian league champions for the fifth time. They are second in the NPFL log after accruing 36 points from 19 matches played so far.

His agreement includes a clause that allows him to leave when and if he can find a club in Europe.

He joins as a Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) elite player with the aim of boosting their image as well as helping Musa maintain his fitness as he continues his search for a European club.

“Anything that improves the image of Nigerian football is something that I strive to embark on and Kano Pillars holds a special place in my heart,” the former Leicester City player told BBC Sport Africa as he considered the deal.

“It’s the team that helped me become the professional footballer I am today, so this is more than just football but a very strong bond.”

Musa, who has built two training and fitness facilities in Northern Nigeria to help grassroots football, scored 18 goals for Kano Pillars to finish as top scorer in the 2009/10 Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) season.

His desire to help promote the image of the domestic league on social media is what the LMC, which runs the NPFL, is hoping to benefit from this season.

Musa made his 96th appearance for Nigeria in the 3-0 win over Lesotho in Lagos in the Super Eagles final Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ ͹Ϳ, 2021

GLOBAL SOCCER

ÜÏ×ÓÏÜÝÒÓÚ ËÌÖÏ

FA Cup

Guardiola’s Quadruple Quest Faces Tochel’s Test Pep Guardiola’s quest of winning unprecedented quadruple trophies faces a tough test against a rampaging Thomas Tuchel’s Chelsea side in the first semifinal of the English FA Cup. With the Premier League almost in the bag, a semifinal place in the Champions League and in the final of the EFL, the Citizens are in good stead to winning a quadruple.

But against a tricky Chelsea side that are also aiming for a double, Guardiola is in for a big test

Man City Man Utd Leicester West Ham Chelsea Liverpool Tottenham Everton Arsenal Leeds Aston Villa Wolves Crystal Palace Southampton Brighton Burnley Newcastle Fulham West Brom Sheff Utd

32 31 31 31 31 31 32 31 31 31 30 31 31 31 31 31 31 32 31 31

44 27 18 12 19 16 17 3 8 0 10 -10 -19 -17 -5 -17 -19 -18 -31 -38

74 63 56 55 54 52 50 49 45 45 44 38 38 36 33 33 32 26 24 14

PREMIER LEAGUE TODAY Newcastle v West Ham 12:30

Wolvers v Sheffield Utd 20:15 SUNDAY

Arsenal v Fulham 13:30 Man Utd v Burnley 16:00 MONDAY

Leeds Utd v Liverpool 20:00

Ë ÓÑË TODAY

Osasuna Sociedad Alavés Atlético Cádiz Real Betis Getafe Levante

v v v v v v v v

Elche 13:00 Sevilla 13:00 Huesca 15:15 Eibar 15:15 Celta Vigo 17:30 Valencia 17:30 Madrid 20:00 Villarreal 20:00

ßÚ ˪ ÓØËÖ TODAY

Chelsea v Manchester City 17:30 SUNDAY

Leicester v Southampton 18:30

ÙÞ ÒÙÞ PLAYERS

Manchester City winger, Raheem Sterling body-checks Chelsea Captain, Cesar Azpilicueta as both players struggle for possession

D

reams of a continental and domestic quadriple will vanish for Manchester City, or a double ambition will end for Chelsea this weekend, as the two sides lock horns in today’s FACup semi-final at Wembley Stadium.

Both clubs booked their spots in the semi-finals of the Champions League in midweek, as Thomas Tuchel’s men overcame Porto 2-1 on aggregate while Pep Guardiola’s quarter-final hoodoo ended with a dominant 4-2 success over two legs against Borussia Dortmund.

Chelsea are aiming to go one better in the FA Cup after losing to Arsenal in last season’s final, while Man City were knocked out at this stage by the Gunners in the 2019-20 tournament.

Tuchel has already endeared himself to the Chelsea faithful with his side’s freeflowing attacking sequences and dogged defensive unit since replacing Frank Lampard at the helm, and another European crown would be the perfect way for the former Paris Saint-Germain manager to prove his worth to the club’s notoriously trigger-happy hierarchy, although he may have to get one over his old club in the final should Chelsea get there.

The Blues are far from a guaranteed spot in Europe’s elite competition via their league position, though, as they sit one point adrift of fourth-placed West Ham United following their humbling at the hands of West Bromwich Albion, although they did at least manage to put Crystal Palace to the sword last time out domestically.

A 3-1 win over Luton Town in the fourth round of the FA Cup signalled the end of Lampard’s tenure in the Stamford Bridge

hotseat, and Tuchel has, unsurprisingly, navigated tests against Barnsley and Sheffield United without seeing his defence breached in the previous two rounds.

Should the Blues manage to get one over perennial cup winners Man City, it will mark the fourth time in five seasons that they have reached the showpiece event in England’s premier cup competition - with a fifth-round defeat to Manchester United in 2018-19 being the only exception - and a 15th final would put them third on the all-time list behind Arsenal (21) and Man United (20).

Tuchel’s first two defeats in the Stamford Bridge hotseat hardly requires the panic button to be pressed, and the fatigued Blues’ goal-shy showing in midweek did not matter whatsoever as they booked their place in the Champions League semis, but the normally-resilient Chelsea defence now boasts just one clean sheet in four games.

Even though an FA Cup triumph would not be enough to secure a spot in next season’s Champions League, a first piece of silverware would go a long way to securing Tuchel’s future in the Blues’ dugout, as whoever comes up trumps in this tie will certainly be favourites to overcome Leicester City or Southampton on May 15.

Often hailed as generational talents, Erling Brraut Haaland, Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden were all presented with the chance to strut their stuff on the Westfalenstadion turf in midweek, and it was the English duo who took the bull by the horns in a pulsating quarter-final second leg.

Seventeen-year-old Bellingham was controversially denied his first Champions League goal for the club at the Etihad for a perceived foul on Ederson - with replays suggesting that the decision was harsh, but

the ex-Birmingham City starlet took just 15 minutes to score a perfectly good goal in the second leg as City’s number one could not keep his top-corner-bound effort out.

A 1-0 scoreline would have been enough for Dortmund to prolong Guardiola’s quarter-final misery, but Riyad Mahrez restored parity from the spot after a handball by Emre Can, and the effervescent Foden repeated his first-leg heroics with a stunning strike from outside the area to seal City’s progress into the final four.

Foden’s ever-improving performances spell optimism for both City and England, but more importantly, a spot in the semi-finals of the Champions League means that the quadruple dream is still on for Guardiola, no matter how much he wants to downplay it.

With an 11-point lead at the top and six games left to play in the Premier League, City are cruising to another top-flight crown, and Guardiola’s dominance of the EFL Cup scene could continue against Tottenham Hotspur in next weekend’s final, but the charismatic Catalan coach has not always been able to stamp his authority on the FA Cup. Indeed, the Manchester giants have only ever reached the final once in the last eight seasons - thrashing Watford 6-0 in the 2018-19 showpiece event and Guardiola was outdone by his former student Mikel Arteta at this stage last season, as City lost 2-0 to Arsenal in the final four.

However, with an astonishing 28 wins to boast from their last 30 across all competitions - notwithstanding their shock defeat to Leeds United last time out in the Premier League - City’s players will undoubtedly march to Wembley with thoughts of an unprecedented quadruple racing through their minds, although they must extinguish such fantasies for at least 90 minutes today.

Harry Kane Mohamed Salah Bruno Fernandes Calvert-Lewin Patrick Bamford Son Heung-min Alexandre Lacazette Ollie Watkins Jamie Vardy Ilkay Gundogan Callum Wilson Marcus Rashford Wilfried Zaha Harvey Barnes Emerick Aubameyang Raheem Sterling Riyad Mahrez Tomas Soucek Danny Ings Diogo Jota James Maddison Neal Maupay Gabriel Jesus Jesse Lingard Jarrod Bowen Kelechi Iheanacho

CLUB

GOALS

Tottenham 19 Liverpool 19 Man Utd 16 Everton 14 Leeds United 14 Tottenham 14 Arsenal 13 Aston Villa 12 Leicester 12 Man City 12 Newcastle 10 Man Utd 10 Crystal Palace 9 Leicester 9 Arsenal 9 Man City 9 Man City 9 West Ham 9 Southampton 9 Liverpool 8 Leicester 8 Brighton 8 Man City 8 West Ham 8 West Ham 8 Leicester 8

Guardiola’s men have overcome Birmingham City, Cheltenham Town, Swansea City and Everton to book their spot in the semi-finals - scoring at least twice in all four of those games and if their stints in Germany are anything to go by, Guardiola certainly enjoys coming up against teams coached by Tuchel.

The former Bayern Munich manager did not taste defeat in any of his five meetings with Tuchel between 2013 and 2016 - winning three and drawing two against his counterpart, but the German’s Chelsea outfit command plenty of respect.

One of these English powerhouses will see their dreams of FA Cup glory dashed this weekend, but if Chelsea and City continue to produce the goods in Europe, an all-English Champions League final between the two teams in blue is not beyond the realm of possibility.

day’s -final eicester ake on ampton ke the a v

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ ͹Ϳ, 2021

GLOBAL SOCCER

( L-R): Sukanmi Iyiola, Adebiyi Fetuga, Omoba Wole Sowole( Capt) and Jenkins Alumona of the Flykite team at the Nigeria British Chambers of Commerce 2021 Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament

Italian Clubs Scramble for Simi Nwankwo’s Signature Two Italian Serie A clubs are battling to sign Nigeria international Simeon Tochukwu Nwankwo.

Tutto Udinese has confirmed that Udinese are interested in the Crotone marksman but face competition from Genoa.

Simy is likely to move on to pastures new in the summer if

Crotone are relegated at the end of the 2020-2021 season.

With eight matches to go before the end of this campaign, The Sharks find themselves in relegation trouble, having taken 15 points from thirty matches.

The Super Eagle has already put himself in the shop window with 16 goals to his name - be-

coming the highest scoring Nigerian in a single-season in the Serie A. Simy is Crotone’s all-time top scorer with 62 goals from 151 appearances in all competitions since joining the club five years ago.

His contract with Crotone runs out on June 30, 2022.

How Super Eagles Soared with “33” Export Lager Beer to 33rd AFCON Tournament TheYear 2020 had its peculiar challenges globally but beyond that, it was one the Super Eagles would want to forget in a hurry.

For the first time in a very long while, the Nigeria men’s senior national football team failed to win any of its matches in a calendar year In the friendly matches played in October 2020, the Eagles lost 1-0 to the Desert Foxes ofAlgeria and were later held to a 1-1 draw by Tunisia days after.

Then in the AFCON quali-

fiers in November, the Eagles blew away a four-goal lead to play 4-4 against the Leone Stars of Sierra Leone at the Sam Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City before settling for another barren draw in Freetown days after.

With this development, there was no gainsaying that the Super Eagles needed to be turbo-charged to start 2021 on the right footing.

Thankfully,“33”ExportLager Beer was on hand to provide the right motivation for the Super

Eagles and as a responsible brand, it also created an unforgettable experience for its loyal consumers who are passionate about the game of football.

Through its “Operation 3-3” campaign, the Super Eagles were ‘gingered’ to go for victories in their last two games for the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Benin Republic and Lesotho even though they could still seal their spot in Cameroon without getting any point from both games.

FA Cup Semis, Copa del Rey final Live on StarTimes Top-flight European football awaits sports fans this weekend on StarTimes.

Barcelona will seek their first glory this season as they battle Athletic Club in the Copa del Rey final today at 8:30 pm The FA Cup semi-final clash between Tuchel’s Chelsea and Guardiola’s Manchester

City will take place today in Wembley at 5:30 pm. Leicester City will face Southampton on Sunday at 6:30 pm.

All matches will be aired live and in HD on StarTimes World Football Channel.

Tuchel has been a perennial trophy-winner with PSG and last season won the double

with the club from the French capital.

Like Tuchel, his Manchester City counterpart, Pep Guardiola has made winning trophies his business. He seems on track to win his third league title with the club this season and would love to emulate the 2018/19 season, when they won the double.

Finalists Emerge at the V Bank Snooker Tournament Shehu Bamidele and Gideon John will battle for the Championship diadem as the V Bank Snooker Tournament comes to an end on today.

Both emerged victorious in the semi-final games decided on Thursday evening.

Abiodun Christopher and Victor Ukueku, who both lost, will battle it out for the third position.

The four contestants were

the last men standing and were in action as the semifinals rounds played out at the Lagos Country Club, Ikeja, and venue of this year’s championship.

In the quarter-final games earlier decided, Victor Ukueku had defeated Edafe Agbah to secure a seat in the semi-finals while Shehu Bamidele defeated former champion and tournament favourite, Waliu Nojeem

in a fiercely contested battle.

Nojeem had emerged winner of the maiden edition of the Vbank snooker tournament held at e-bar in December 2020.

Gideon John and Abiodun Christopher also outplayed Olu Fagbemi and Ademola Ogunnisi respectively in the first round of the quarter finals played on Tuesday.

The final games will take place today.

Booster99.com Raises the Bar of Sports Betting in Nigeria With over 70 betting sites operating in the country already, Booster99 has joined the league of rapidly growing Nigeria’s sports betting industry with the purpose of developing the country’s betting market and providing the best user experience of fun-filled online betting to our punters.

The company plan to be 99 times better in all they do, provide a world-class, streamlined, and hassle-free betting experience to sports lovers in Nigeria.

One of the distinct features of Booster99 is its Sportsbook, an easy-to-use platform which allows punters to register, deposit money, place bets, and collect their winnings seamlessly via desktop, mobile and older feature phones via its mobile lite version, and soon even via SMS and USSD.

Speaking at the launch, Gaming consultant, Morten said; “Our mission at Booster99 is to be 99 times better in everything we do – Booster99 is here to put the punter in focus. We offer 250% Welcome Bonus up to N500, 000 on 1st Deposit and 255% Accumulated Bonus on 30 selections ticket, Cashout, instant payout, cut one, highest odds and the list just goes on and on!

According to Morten, “There are many online betting sites who promise many things, but beware not all of them are true, as not everybody can have the highest odds or the fastest payout, etc. Booster99 does not claim any of this, our aim is to prove to be 99 times better by action and allow the punters to do their own comparison and make their own conclusions.”

Chairman Lagos State Sports Commission, Mr Sola Aiyepeku leads the fans in cheering Lagos athletes at the National Sports Festival

Aiyepeku Hails Performance of Youthful Lagos Athletes at Edo 2020 Berates win at all cost syndrome of some states Lagos State’s hope at improving on its fourth position at the 2018 National Sports Festival may not have come to fruition as it came fifth at the just concluded Edo 2020. However, for the Chairman, Lagos State Sports Commission, Mr. Sola Aiyepeku, the fact that the state played by the rules and gave the budding young talents in the state a platform to express themselves was more satisfying writes Kunle Adewale

U

nperturbed by the fifth position of Lagos State at the recently concluded National Sports Festival, Tagged Edo 2020, Chairman of Lagos State Sports Commission, Mr. SolaAiyepeku insists the aim of the festival was developmental and for him Lagos State would not depart from that objective.

“The main thing for us in Lagos State is developmental and for the young athletes to see that they have a platform where they can perform. We will not rest on our oars for us to continue to provide that platform for the athletes not just to represent themselves, but the state and the country so that they can make good progress in their careers,” Aiyepeku said.

The young Team Lagos male footballers at the festival were so impressive so much so that three of players were penciled down for recruitment by the Edo State government for Bendel Insurance, but it never came as a surprise to Aiyepeku, who felt he had expected more clubs in the country to recruit most of them.

“I am really surprised that it was only three players that were picked among our footballers because all of them have a bright future ahead of them to become great footballers. It is a normal thing that players are recognised in competition like this. We will put in everything at our disposal to keep on developing and improving on our athletes.

“We have already finalised our plans on how to treat our athletes better than what we are currently doing. We are planning a long term approach for their welfare. After the festival, we will begin to unveil these plans. We have long term plans which the athletes will see for themselves that it is more beneficial to stay in Lagos than running to other states.

“Stability is key in sports development and there is always a prize for loyalty. When you are loyal, you get the rewards that come with it and for the sacrifice that you have made. We will make benefit and reward system very attractive. We will do our best, but we are all human being, at the end of the day it is still up to the athletes to decide where he or she will stay. We’ll therefore not hold anybody back,” the former banker said.

In recent years Lagos has been the hub of boxing in Nigeria and the status quo did not change in Edo. According to state sports commission chairman, “the results at the festival was a testimony of Lagos dominant in boxing. We exposed these boxers to rigorous training before coming to Edo festival. What we saw in boxing events was a testimony of what we really want to project.

We were happy we have seen them throw punches and are happy we have seen them win medals for the state. We will continue to encourage them to do better in subsequent tournaments.”

On the plan of the Sports Commission onAdopt-A-Talent programme, where private individuals and companies could invest in Lagos State athletes for career development, Aiyepeku expressed thus: “Firstly, you have to make what you are doing attractive. Adopt-A-Talent scheme worked very well in the past. At a stage, there was sponsorship fatigue because there was no next step in the scheme. What is the next step for athletes who go for a tournament and win medals? The next step is where the private sector comes in.

“What we are doing to celebrate those who have won medals for them to get noticed by the world around us. Nobdoy is telling the stories of these champions. Why would the private sector come and invest when there is no noise around these athletes? Publicity is key to attract private investors for these athletes. “What we are planning to do now is to tell the success stories of these athletes.

Already, we have begun to compile data of what had happened in the last few sports festivals and the just concluded Edo 2020. You can see what happened in the taekwondo event in Edo, one of our athletes, who is about eight months pregnant competed and won a gold medal.

“Nobodyknewabouther,butnowsheisabigstory.TheDeputyGovernorofEdoState,PhilipShaibu informed me about their plan to give her an award as a reward for her tenacity and determination.”

He is therefore appealing to the media to help tell the stories of these athletes.

“When these stories are being told, the private sector will see the need to invest in the athletes. Very soon, we are going to announce one or two sponsors with the Lagos State Sports Commission from the private sector. As we are getting results, we will be attracting investors so that the foundation will be laid for a better sports industry in Lagos State,” he said.

Aiyepeku is of the opinion that by the time the state spelt out the benefits of representing Lagos State and the fallouts, the athletes and their advisors will see reason in not looking elsewhere without forcing anybody to take decisions.

“We discover that many people use Lagos sports facilities for free. So after Edo 2020 sports festival, we will not allow that anymore. If you want to represent other states, you will have to go to that state to train. We want to get commercial values for our training facilities now. We will put hand in hand the incentives and the benefits of putting on the colours of Lagos State in national competitions for the athletes to see for them to take a proper decision on where they want to go and where to belong.”

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPA P PER ˾ PRIL 17, 2021

TRIBUTE/BOOK REVIEW

A Bill for an Act to Curb the Powers of Death Soyombo Opeyemi

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It is high time the powers of Death were checked and circumscribed by legal instruments. But for equity, there should have been mass mobilization for Death to be arrested, summarily tried and sent to life imprisonment or straight to the guillotine. There is a litany of injustices perpetrated by Death against citizens. A prima facie case can be established; his guilt can be proved beyond a reasonable doubt. But our laws do not permit a man to be tried for an offence that has not been so codified. Hence, there is the need for the national legislature to enact a law to curb the powers of Death.

There are mountains of plaints against Death. His predilection for arbitrariness, impunity, mischief, whim and caprice must be checked. No one should be invested with such an absolute power. As Lord Acton observed, “Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely.”

I had developed some bond with Henry Boyo. Within weeks of our interactions on the Editorial Board of Daily Independent, we formed some chemistry. His passion for the economic prosperity of Nigeria was unrivalled. Here was a self-made man, who needed nothing from Nigeria. Although he belonged to the upper class, he identifi ified with all classes of the society.

On a daily basis, he railed against the voodoo economics of the country. He did not exactly use the word ‘folly’ though every of his listener or reader would conclude with that word. Why should the Central Bank of Nigeria pump trillions of Naira into the system or wet the system with overfl r owing liquidity and then turn round to complain of too much money in the system, fuelling infl n ation? Then at one fell swoop, the same CBN decides to mop up the excess liquidity by borrowing back through the commercial banks the same Naira it, of its own volition, injected into the system, at a colossal interest rates or loss to the public exchequer? It’s like working for the commercial banks at the expense of the masses. Or it’s more of working for the money bags at the expense of the masses through monetary instruu ments like the Treasury Bill.

and print media, especially through his columns in the Daily Independent, Punch and Vanguard. His prescription was simple and unimpeachable.

Here is Henry Boyo’s refrain: “There is no greater instigator of excess liquidity than the constant substitution of Naira allocations for dollar-denominated revenue. This is the poison in our economic system. Truly, our nation’s development will remain stunted for many generations if we do not tackle this problem. I will not be part of the band of deceit that will trumpet cures to symptoms of a disease rather than recommend a frontal attack to the real cause of the disease. Indeed, the evidence is clear that our people have become poorer despite increasing dollar revenue and reserves in the last three decades!

“Certainly, no economy can perform creditably when cost of funds to the real sector remains at over 20%, while stable consumer demand remains severely constrained with annual infl n ation rates of 8-12%. Sadly, CBN and our Economic Management Teams have never been able to construct an appropriate growth model which supports low cost of funds (i.e. 3-6%), low infl n ation rate (1-3%), with a non-monopolistic and open forex market that will drive the elusive quest for economic diversifi ification and inclusive growth.

Systemic Naira supply, clearly also, is responsible for weaker Naira exchange rates, as CBN’s weekly auctions of modest dollar rations, are pitched in a market against excess Naira supply, which invariably creates an imbalance in favour of the dollar! Surely, the adoption of dollar certifi ificates for government allocations of dollarHenry Boyo denominated revenue will eliminate or critically reduce the burden of excess Naira liquidity and therefore give the Naira a fighting If it was a one-off egregious act, it could be overlooked. But every month, the apex bank converts the dollar proceeds for the chance against the dollar in the Forex market.”

Some of us have near pathological aversion to Lagos traffi ffic. three tiers of government into Naira at an arbitrary rate, flooding Any opportunity to escape the raucous city is lustily craved. A the system with Naira, which keeps the Nigerian currency worse situation was thrown up by the endless construction on the on the canvas against the dollar. Since virtually everything is Lagos-Ibadan highway, especially the blockage of a section of the imported in the country, you have truckloads of the same casffic-jam. trated Naira looking for the dollar! Hence the more the increase road, which exacerbated the traffi in our dollar-denominated revenue and external reserves, the ––Soyombo, y media p practitioner and p public affairs ff analyst, more the Naira allocations pumped into the system, the poorer writes from Abeokuta via densityshow@yahoo.com Nigerians become, as too much Naira chases a stronger dollar.

Read d full f ll article l online l - www.thisdaylive.com h d l And Henry Boyo would shout from the rooftops, in broadcast

Vignettes of Nostalgic Reminiscences Title:Heritage g Schools,Nigeria g –AnillustratedHistory Author: Oyinkan y Ade-Ajayi j y P Publisher: PhoenixVisionsWorldLtd,2019,Pp.280 Reviewer: Pat Oyelola

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his elegant volume, with its forest green cover and discreet Nigerian flag, printed in China on gloss paper throughout and copiously illustrated with colour and black and white photoo graphs of uniformly high quality, provides a history of secondary education in Nigeria from 1859 (CMS Grammar School) to 1945 (Holy Child College). Each chapter gives the history of an individual school, starting with the school crest and finishing with the school anthem. The text includes the history of the school’s foundation, the curriculum, extra-curricular activities and the organisation of the school day. There are also reminiscences by old students and a list of past principals.

The pictures show people and places, staff and students at work and play and the buildings in which these activities took place.

Many of the schools in this volume came into being as a result of Christian missionary initiative e.g. CMS Grammar School, 1859; CMS Girls Seminary, 1869, which moved to Ibadan and became St. Anne’s in 1950; Methodist Boys’ High School, 1878, Methodist Girls’ High School, 1879; Hope Waddell Training Institute, 1895; Baptist Boys’ High School, 1923; Dennis Memorial Grammar School, 1925; St. Gregory’s College, 1928; Igbobi College, 1932, Christ the King College, 1933; Holy Child College, 1945. However, whether funded by Christian or secular sources, all the schools aimed at developing the physical, intellectual, ethical and cultural aspects of their students. This they achieved through the efforts of dedicated teachers and principals who regarded teaching as an honourable profession, not a stop-gap or job of last resort.

Once an aspiring student passed the competii tive entrance exam, s/he was not debarred on the grounds of religious affi ffiliation: mission schools pursued an all-inclusive admission policy, Nor was there any effort to convert students, although certain religious practices were part of the school routine e.g. reciting of

the Hail Mary at the beginning and end of each lesson at St. Gregory’s (estab. 1928); Sunday morning service and Evensong in the school Chapel at St. Anne’s (estab. 1928).

Most Heritage Schools were boarding schools where the students lived in dormitories on the school compound. The dormitories were divided into “Houses”, sometimes named after former Principals of the School. These “Houses” acted like teams which competed against one another in sports and other activities such as dee bating. Boarding house life was structured with definite fi times allocated to defi finite activities: cleaning and tidying the dormitory; maintainn ing the environment; bathing; eating; attending classes; resting; prep; sports and co-curricular activities. Dormitories were supervised by teachers with the help of prefects.

Schools established by the colonial governn ment were few and far between. Expatriate teachers in secondary schools, referred to as “colleges” were graduates, many from Oxford and Cambridge. They brought with them their individual talents which they used for the benefit fi of the students and Nigeria as a whole.

Kenneth C. Murray taught art at Umuahia where he started an art gallery. He was instruu mental in establishing museums in Nigeria, becoming the fi first Surveyor of the Antiquities Service which later became NCMM (National Commission for Museums and Monuments).

Messrs. R.H. Stone and A.B. Cozens Governn ment College, (Umuahia) wrote a textbook “Biology for Tropical Schools”, used throughout West Africa.

Mr. E.H. Duckworth (Umuahia) introduced scientifi ific fi fieldwork, emphasising the imporrtance of critical observation. He was also the Editor of “Nigeria Magazine”, a respected publication whose profusely illustrated articles provide a priceless record of Nigerian life and culture. The distinguished Nigerian academic and university administrator, Saburi Biobaku, started off as a teacher in Umuahia.

W.B. Benton-Evans of Government College, Ibadan, was an Oxford Blue in football. V.B.V Powell (G.C.I.) was a Cambridge Blue in athletics. D.J. Bullock’s love of theatre resulted in school productions of an impressive standard.

The badges of most of the Heritage Schools are like a modifi ified shield, echoing old English grammar schools. The palm tree, source of

Nigerian’s fi first oil wealth, features as a motif on many, an open book being another favourite.

The burning torch of learning features on two badges. There are also religious symbols: the cross, the dove, the keys of St. Peter. One badge differs radically from all the rest. It was commissioned from the College of Heralds in London for King’s College during the regnum of Mr. J.R. Bunting, 1949-54 and features a seductive mermaid rising from the sea. An elephant and palm tree seem to have been added as an afterthought! However, the elephant has triumphed over the mermaid: there is no sign of her on the badges on the boys’ shirts now.

Many of the school mottoes are in Latin, another old English grammar school tradii tion. School and God are closely linked. “Nisi dominus frustra”, meaning Without God we labour in vain, used by CMS Grammar School.

Deo duce, meaning With God as leader is used

by Baptist Academy. Service is also emphasized.

“Non sibi sed aliis”, meaning Not for ourselves but for others, used by Methodist Boys’ High School. Similar sentiments were also expressed in English. “In love serve one another”, used by Methodist Girl’s High School and “Learning to serve”, used by Government College, Ibadan.

Two of the Heritage Schools stand out for their nationalist orientation. The motto of Abeokuta Grammar School is in Yoruba. “Iberu Oluwa ni Ipinle Ogbon”: (fear of the Lord is

the beginning of wisdom) encircling a stylized Abeokuta landscape featuring Olumo Rock and the Ogun river, a student with open book seated on its bank, illuminated by a bright sun. The school’s song is the Egba national anthem. A.G.S was a community school, an initiative of the Abeokuta District Church Council supported by the Egba people and the Alake, Oba Gbadebo.

Nevertheless, the fi first four Principals up to 1967 were all ordained ministers of the church.

Barewa College, Zaria, (established 1921), which has a logo of a leaping deer has a motto written in Arabic: “Man jadaa, wajada”. He who strives shall succeed. The Native Authority gave a generous grant for the buildings, augmented with funds the from Alfred Jones Bequest of Britain. The fi first 12 Principals up to 1963 were British. The school song is in English and summarizes the history of the college and the national leaders it has produced. There is a large mosque on the college compound.

Professor Emeritus Ayo Banjo, an Old Boy of Igbobi College (established 1932) and House Master at Government College Ibadan (established 1929) in the introduction mourns the dee clining standards in Nigerian education which he links to the quality of teachers who have poor pay and conditions of service. But there may yet be light at the end of the tunnel. On World Teachers’ Day, 2020, President Muhammadu Buhari announced measures to attract the “best brains” into teaching. These include: Bursaries for Education students, Automatic employment for education graduates, raising of retirement age to 65, Provision of low-cost housing for teachers in rural areas, Annual refresher courses for teachers and Awards for excellence. We shall wait and see!

Oyinkan Ade-Ajayi is to be congratulated for perpetuating the legacy of her father-inlaw, Professor Emeritus J. Ade-Ajayi, whose Ph.D. focused on early Christian missions in Nigeria. She has created a book whose carefullyresearched content is presented with lucidity and enriched with high quality illustrations. It will provoke many a nostalgic sigh from the Old Boys and Old Girls as they turn the pages and remember the days of their youth.

–––Dr. Oyelola, an academic, has written several books on art and history. She is also Chairperson, Editorial Board of the Nigerian Field Society.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ ͻ, 2021

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ ͻ, 2021

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER APRIL 17,2021

AUTO WORLD

Bennett Oghifo 07052343083 Email:bennett.oghifo@thisdaylive.com

Why Mercedes-Maybach is Pinnacle of Luxury

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o present the best of the best”: that was the ambition voiced

by Karl Maybach and his father Wilhelm when they debuted the Maybach 22/70 HP W 3 a century ago – planting the seed for Mercedes-Maybach to become one of the most unique and exclusive automotive brands today.

The philosophy expressed at Berlin’s motor exhibition that day has remained at the core of the brand ever since. Over the decades, as royalty, world leaders, movie stars and sports champions have travelled in Mercedes-Maybach vehicles, the double M emblem has come to signify the pinnacle of technical innovation and sophisticated luxury. It is a seal of passion and creative empowerment. Maybach’s words today represent not just the “best” products but the “best” in society.

From the moment the W 3 – Maybach Motorenbau GmbH’s Àrst serial production model – was unveiled in September 1921, a legend had been born. From the four-wheel

brakes (the Àrst German car to have such a function) and planetary gearbox complete with six-cylinder engine (enabling all speeds to be managed with a single gear) to the sumptuous wood and leather interiors, the design was boundary breaking. The car - resembling a work of art on wheels - delighted the public.

However, steadfast longevity requires constant evolution.

Daimler acquired Maybach Motorenbau GmbH in 1961 and, in 2002, ushered in a new era with the Maybach 62. Coinciding with its centenary, Mercedes-Maybach has unveiled two new models: the S-Class, which represents automotive luxury now more than ever thanks to numerous digital innovations and technical Ànesse, and the GLS SUV – setting the highest standards of modernisation in the SUV division.

Nothing is left unconsidered in the design of each vehicle, and Mercedes-Maybach is deep in the process of cultivating their next remarkable and unique experience with its Àrst fully electric vehicle – details of which will be revealed in the coming months.

“Mercedes-Maybach is the pinnacle of automotive excellence at Mercedes-Benz” says Britta

Seeger, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Mercedes Benz AG responsible for Marketing and Sales. “As we celebrate 100 years of Maybach’s unique heritage at the forefront of luxury experience, we remain passionate about driving the brand forward to set the highest standards in style, comfort and outstanding craftsmanship. Maybach customers are looking for something special and our aspiration is to surpass those expectations. By combining our exclusive customer care programme, with the perfection and state-of-the-art technology of Mercedes-Benz and the exclusivity of Maybach, we invite our customer to a one-of-a-kind sophisticated luxury experience.”

Luxury though, isn’t always tangible. MercedesMaybach is innately creative and continuously engaging in topical cultural conversations that will ultimately drive its creativity forward. The 100-year anniversary of the Àrst Maybach automobile in 2021 will see multiple initiatives that celebrate this spirit come to life.

Mercedes-Maybach is leading from the front as Mercedes-Benz drives forward a new strategic course to build on its successes in the high-end vehicle segment, electric drive and car software.

TIPS OF THE WEEK

8 Car Damaging Habits that are Unintentionally Ruining Your Car! Our car is one of the most valuable possessions we own. We use it often to commute and therefore it is subjected to harsh weather and road conditions. Sometimes, you might experience a lot of potholes and the other times, you might have to drive it through bumper to bumper traffic. While our car strives to deliver the best it can, there are some car damaging habits that often get away unnoticed. In this article, we will tell you about 10 habits by which you are unknowingly damaging your car. Let’s begin!

Riding the brake When you are driving down a steep, if you tend to use your brake pedal for long intervals, you are doing it wrong! I have seen some people put the car on neutral and simply rid the brake to get down from a steep. This can severely hurt your brakes and in the worst cases, can cause them to fail too. This is the first one among the car damaging habits that go unnoticed. Instead of riding the brake, you can shift your car into a lower gear and have a control on your car’s speed.

Regular low-fuel drives We know that the growing fuel prices are painful but does that mean you valued possession will take all the pain? Driving your car at low fuel won’t damage your car if it is done occasionally. But if you make it a habit, it can severely damage your engine, fuel pump and can also clog your filters. Feeding your car’s engine with the mucky fuel isn’t a good idea for sure. This is also one of the car damaging habits that often get away unnoticed.

Delaying your car’s service Well, this is another bad habit that most of the people have. Delaying your car’s service is not a good habit at all. Every fluid inside your car or even the filters have got a limited lifespan. You should not delay your car’s service at all to keep it in its best shape. Worried about high authorised service centre charges? Click the picture above to save up to 40% on your car’s service!

Driving with Low Air Pressure Driving your car with poorly inflated tyres can cause extremely bad effects on your car. However, if you are losing the tyre pressure quite often, your car’s tyres might need to be replaced. With GoMechanic, you can get the nationwide best tyre prices along with free pickup and drop! Don’t compromise on your car’s health due to old tyres otherwise you might end up hurting the suspension badly.

Ignoring the Leaks Another one among the car damaging habits that often go unnoticed is the leaking fluid. You should carefully note your car’s fluid levels at regular intervals.

If the leak is prominent, you can also notice the fluid beneath the car like in the picture shown above. If you ever notice a leak in your car, you should not ignore it at all. Don’t worry if you can’t visit the workshops in the current scenario, we offer free doorstep contactless pickup and drop.

Mercedes-Maybach

MINI John Cooper Gets Fresh Momentum for Extreme Driving Pleasure

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ith its purist design, extended standard equipment, new operating system and attractive equipment packages, the top sports car in the premium segment of small cars presents itself more than ever in top form.

Long straights awaken its tracking ability, and in

MINI John Cooper interior

tight bends it shows its unmistakable talent. In the MINI John Cooper Works, every kilometre becomes an experience - not only on the race track, but also on the road, according to the automaker.

The fascination exuded by the top sports car in the premium small car segment has grown once again with the latest model update. With fresh design accents and extended standard equipment,

the MINI John Cooper Works presents itself more than ever in top form. A new operating system and attractive equipment packages also offer optimised options for enjoying extreme driving pleasure in an individual way.

The character of the MINI John Cooper Works, which is consistently tailored to inspiring performance, is staged even more authentically by the British brand’s new, particularly clear and purist design language. At the front of the vehicle, the round LED headlights and the hexagonal radiator grille, which features a red crossbar and now extends far downwards, are particularly prominent. Enlarged cooling air openings ensure optimum temperature control of the drive and brake systems in extremely sporty driving situations. The model-specific side scuttles on the front side panels and the rear apron, which now features a distinctive diffuser to optimise airflow in the rear area of the underbody, have also been redesigned.

The expressive appearance reflects the impressive temperament of the MINI John Cooper Works. Its power source is the four-cylinder engine with MINI TwinPower Turbo technology, developed with the racing expertise of John Cooper Works, which develops a maximum output of 170 kW/231 hp and a maximum torque of 320 Nm from a displacement of 2.0 litres. After the start signal given at a standstill, it takes just 6.3 seconds for the MINI John Cooper Works with standard 6-speed manual transmission to accelerate to 100 km/h.

Ignoring the Warning Lights Another car damaging habit that most of the people ignore in fear of high expenditures is ignoring the dashboard warning lights. Remember, this is the only way how your car can inform you about a problem before it gets worse.

If you are anyhow afraid of high workshop charges, we can provide you with free diagnosis if you drive into our workshop.

Revving Unnecessarily It’s not a healthy habit at all to revv the engine unnecessarily. Some might say that they do it to heat up the engine in cold weather conditions while the others might just be inspired by the racing clips they see. Well, you don’t need to race on the roads and revving your engine is really bad for the components. For heating up the engine, just leave it on idle and it will reach the optimum temperature really soon.

Going on the Potholes Well, we live in a country where potholes are a common sight. If you care for your car, it’s your duty to safeguard it from the ill-effects that these potholes might cause to your car’s suspension. Passing over the potholes without applying the brakes is one of the most common car-damaging habits that exist right now. This is the simplest one to overcome too. Just drive slowly on roads where you suspect the potholes to be.

These were the 8 major car damaging habits that go unnoticed quite often. Share this article with all the car owners around you so that they get aware of these habits which are damaging their cars. What’s more? You can drop by a GoMechanic workshop for a routine checkup and we will let you know if your car needs some repair!

(Source: GoMechanic)

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER APRIL 17,2021

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AUTO WORLD

Rolls-Royce Motor Reports Record First Quarter Results

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olls-Royce Motor Cars has said it delivered the highest-ever Àrst quarter sales results in the marque’s 116-year history in the Àrst three months of 2021.

Between 1 January and 31 March, the company delivered 1,380 motor cars to customers, up 62% on the same period in 2020 and surpassing the previous Àrst quarter record set in 2019. Sales growth was seen in all markets, with the strongest in China, US and Asia PaciÀc.

“Rolls-Royce Motor Cars made a strong start to 2021, reÁected today in our Àrst quarter sales Àgures, which are the highest in our 116-year history.

With robust order books across our product range, particularly for the new Ghost and Cullinan, sales growing in key markets and Bespoke commissions running at record levels, our business is in excellent shape. We have every reason to be optimistic for the remainder of 2021,” said Torsten Müller-Ötvös, Chief Executive O΀cer, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Demand for all Rolls-Royce models is extremely buoyant, particularly the new Ghost launched in 2020, and the superluxury SUV, Cullinan, with order books extending well into the second half of 2021.

Bespoke commissions remain at the record levels seen in 2020, with a number of outstanding individual examples already delivered this year, including the Koa Phantom and Iridescent Opulence Phantom.

All 20 of the Phantom Tempus Collection cars have been allocated to customers worldwide.

ReÁecting on the results, Müller-Ötvös said, “We’ve responded to recent challenges with our customary boldness, imagination and inventiveness, underpinned by meticulous planning and a relentless focus on our customers’ needs and requirements. Every member of

Rolls-Royce Ghost our extraordinary team, at the Home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood and across the globe, has been crucial to delivering these remarkable results; their skills, talents, commitment and enthusiasm make us who we are.”

The automaker is represented in Nigeria by RollsRoyce Motor Cars Lagos owned by Coscharis Motors

Plc, is the exclusive franchise owner for Rolls-Royce vehicles sales and services in Nigeria. It currently has showrooms and workshops located both in Lagos and Abuja, according to Abiona Babarinde, G.M Marketing and Corporate Communications, Coscharis Group.

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the BMW Group and is a completely separate

company from Rolls-Royce plc, the manufacturer of aircraft engines and propulsion systems. Over 2,000 skilled men and women are employed at the Rolls-Royce Motor Cars’ head o΀ce and manufacturing plant at Goodwood, West Sussex, the only place in the world where the company’s super-luxury motor cars are hand-built.

Toyota Launches Safer, Stylish Facelifted Toyota Camry

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oyota has launched a more stylish, safer facelifted Camry with a revised range that offers a hybrid powertrain in every grade, including the sporty Camry SX for the first time.

The new range reflects the ever-growing demand for Toyota’s petrol electric hybrid models that help deliver on its commitment to a sustainable future while offering customers lower running costs.

The 160kW 2.5-litre hybrid powertrain is now offered in the entry-level Ascent, Ascent Sport, SX sports model and top-of-the-range SL. A 152kW 2.5-litre four-cylinder dynamic force petrol engine, mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission will also be available on the Ascent.

Toyota Australia Vice President Sales and Marketing Sean Hanley said the focus on hybrid models for the facelifted Camry reflected Toyota’s drive to deliver more sustainable vehicles that continued to provide plenty of stylish appeal, high levels of safety, driving enjoyment and Toyota’s renowned quality, reliability and durability.

“Over the past few years, Toyota has significantly

ramped up its hybrid offering with the fuel-efficient petrol electric drivetrain now available in seven model lines - and soon the new Kluger will make it eight,” Mr. Hanley said.

“With hybrid now making up more than 25 per cent of all Toyota sales in Australia, its environmental and fuel efficiency advantages are delivering great benefits to customers across a range of sectors.

“The Toyota Camry has long been a family favourite sedan and with its new front end and interior restyle, increased safety technology - including the addition of Toyota Connected Services - and dynamic driving characteristics, it is set to offer even more customer appeal,” he said.

Enhanced style delivers imposing road presence Externally, the entry-level Ascent has undergone an extensive transformation at the front end with redesigned bumper and upper and lower grille that features distinctive horizontal bars that offer a more refined aesthetic.

Ascent Sport, SX and SL grades now feature wide flared side fins and a lower spoiler that stretches the width of the car, giving it a wide planted stance while the honeycomb grille mesh adds to its sporty flair.

Hybrid Toyota Camry All models feature new design wheels with 17-inch on the Ascent and Ascent Sport, 18-inch on SL and big 19-inch wheels for the SX featuring a black sports finish. Eight bold colours are available including a

Why Do Cars Somersault?

I am bereaved. And I am very sad. I am sad because I lost a good friend recently and the circumstances of his death bleeds my heart .I know I am not God and no man is God. I know I couldn’t have stopped the crash except God but I wish the circumstances of his death was different. I wish he was bed-ridden, hospitalized, struggling to live. I am so sorry but I just can’t think straight and so I don’t even know the best way to paint the circumstances behind his death.

But I am told he died without a struggle even though I knew him as a fighter. I wish as friends and acquaintances, we had the opportunity to rally around him to help, to donate blood, to raise cash just to see how we could arm-twist God’s divine hands for a stroke of miracle; so he could live again: for days, weeks and maybe months to at least say goodbye to his loved ones and have us his acquaintances, say a farewell prayer.

Since Tim’s death (not real name), I have had cause to counsel my friends and staff and even those who call themselves my enemies that life truly as captured in Ecclesiastes 1: 2 in the Holy bible where it said, ’vanity upon vanity, saith the Preacher, vanity upon vanity, all is vanity’. The Holy Koran also re-echoes that all about life is vanity. Or how do you explain going through all the motions of life’s challenges, successes and ultimately rising to be counted in your chosen field only to kiss this world goodbye without even a clue? Please kindly forgive my emotions. I am truly heart broken,

SAFE DRIVING with

Jonas Agwu amnipr, mcipr,mprsa,arpa Assistant Corps Marshal Zonal Commanding Officer Federal Road Safety Corps.

traumatized, anguished, pained and distressed.

Since it happened I have interrogated my friends and colleagues on the causative factors. Was it excessive speeding which is forbidden by the 2012 National Road Traffic Regulations. The appropriate section 152 (1) states that ‘’a person shall not drive a vehicle on any public road in excess of the prescribed speed limit provided in Schedule 8 to these regulations or as may be published from time to time by the Commission. It further states that… no person shall drive a vehicle on any public road in excess of the speed limit indicated by an appropriate road traffic sign in respect of that road?

Was he properly strapped as provided by section 126 (1) of the same Regulations which states that,’’ every vehicle shall have fitted in the front and rear seats, seat belts and child safety seats which shall be securely worn by the driver and the other occupants of the vehicle while the vehicle is on motion . The

provision further states that the driver of a motor vehicle shall be responsible for the children who are passengers in such a vehicle and shall ensure the proper use of child locks in every vehicle where one is installed .The driver shall also ensure the proper use of child safety seats for every child that is 7 years and below and ensure that child seats are not installed in the front row of any vehicle. Only a child with medical report that says it is medically inadvisable shall be exempted from wearing a seat belt?

I also pondered on the possibility of him driving under the influence of alcohol or any other substance in contravention of section 174 (1). It states that ‘’ no person shall drive a vehicle or occupy the driver’s seat of any vehicle on a public road while under the influence of intoxicating liquor or a drug having a narcotic effect while the engine is running. The prescribed limit of alcohol permitted is 0.5 grammes in 100 millilitres of alcohol or 80 milligrams in 100 millilitres of urine or blood test which shall be determined by use of a breath analyzer to be conducted by a member of the Corps or in case of urine or blood test by a medical officer.

The Regulations spells out penalties but I must state here that irrespective of the penalties for violation, the biggest penalty is the loss of your life. I equally pondered on the impact that killed him on the spot before rescue could reach out to him. These and many other questions are pondering my mind even though I know that it can’t and won’t bring him back. So are there lessons for us the living to

solid Glacier White, Frosted White crystal pearl, Silver Pearl metallic, Liquid Mercury metallic, Eclipse Black mica metallic, Feverish Red mica metallic, Blacksmith Bronze metallic, and Lunar Blue mica metallic1.

learn? There are indeed plenty of lessons if you ask me especially for the living. This is why I have for the first time in my career chosen to treat a tragic case which still hurts. My usual policy is to let the mourning cease before I bring up the matter. But I just believe this is the best time to focus on the issue of cars somersaulting.

So what do we mean by car somersault? Why do they happen? I don’t know if you have ever driven and a car suddenly out of nowhere, flip in the air, with some doing full 360 or others cascading off into barriers. But why do cars have to suddenly somersault despite factory tests by car manufacturers to ascertain their safety for numerous clients.

Somersaulting of a car is a major source of fatal road traffic crashes just like the one that killed my friend. A car is said to somersault if the driver loses control of the vehicle and the vehicle slips off the road without stopping. In some cases it might come to an abrupt stop while in other cases, the vehicle may start rolling either in its sideways or its forward direction.

There are major factors responsible for somersaulting of cars. One of these factors is what car experts will call the pitch angle of the car which is the angle of its nose relative to the tarmac (road) below it. The pitch angle can either be positive or negative. A positive pitch angle means the car is slightly facing upwards to the sky while a negative pitch angle is when the car is slightly downwards into the road, maximizing the frontal area of a car and increasing downforce. The second factor for car somersault is the car design.

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˜ ˾ APRIL 17, 2021

PEOPLE

Nigeria’s Nims Obunge, Takes a Shot at 2021 London Mayoral Election By the time London voters go to polls to elect the new Mayor of London on May 6, one of the candidates to that exalted seat, a British Nigerian , Nims Obunge will be counting on his campaign against violent crimes and his bridge building efforts in the last 30 years to get voters’ endorsement, reports Festus Akanbi

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s 2021 London mayoral election gathers momentum, with all the candidates intensifying their campaigns, analysts said the chance of the incumbent Mayor, Sadiq Khan to carry the day is slim giving the rising profiles of other contenders. One of those jostling for the exalted seat is the Nigerian-born Nims Obunge, an independent candidate, who argues that the city of London has reached a dispensation when the destiny of the people should not be left at the mercy of politicians alone.

“I believe our city is now at a point where we can no longer afford to hand our destiny to politicians alone. Neither do I believe one political party has the answer to the many challenges we face,” he said as he takes his campaign to the grassroots.

“Over the last few years, I have seen an increase in knifeand-gun crime; the breakdown in communication between young people, police and the government and, what’s more, the government has not demonstrated a sustainable logical or strategic plan to resolve these issues. These are some of the reasons why I feel it is time for me to step up to be Mayor of this amazing city of ours. I don’t want to fail this generation.”

His link to Nigeria will not deter him. He believes he is at home in London. He said, I am a Londoner and I love this city.

When I started The Peace Alliance 20 years ago in the borough of Haringey, I organised the Haringey Peace Awards, which eventually grew to become the London Leadership and Peace Awards. At this event, we celebrate many whose efforts help transform our city.”

Nims explained further that he also initiated an annual London Week of Peace, which involved over 500 collaborative events across every borough in London, including Londoners of all ages and backgrounds.

“I chaired the London Criminal Justice Partnership Advisory Board and the Metropolitan Police Operation Blunt response to knife crime, whilst also being a member of the Police Independent Advisory Board to gun crime and the London Crimestoppers Board. I am also a member of the Violent Crime Prevention Board for London. All of these – and much more – captures my passion for London’s safety,” he stated.

He told London voters that his past experiences have positioned him to respond to the challenges of poverty elevation, trafficking, knife crime, and educational and aspirational attainment. “I also have a strong strategic team that I believe will steer us in the right direction of being a safe, affordable, electric and prosperous city,” he stated.

Nims, the Community Activist Nims Obunge is the senior pastor of Freedom’s Ark Church, in Bruce Grove, Tottenham, and well known among Nigerians and other black people in London, from his ministry and work with several faith organisations, government and voluntary agencies around curbing violent crime in the British capital.

Obunge said while launching his bid for City Hall: “We invite Londoners, to be part of this historic movement as we step up together to secure London’s prosperous future. Be part of a campaign that makes London safe, affordable, and electric.”

Nims is not a newcomer in London public life. His efforts as a community activist had earned him the prestigious Member of British Empire (MBE), for leading the campaign against crime, especially his fight against gun and knife crime in London for the last 20 years. A force to be reckoned with in the community, Nims recently stepped aside as a Deputy Lieutenant for Her Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant for Greater London.

Within a period of 30 years, Nims has succeeded in building bridges across London’s diverse communities and fighting the scourge of knife and gun crime across London. The charismatic pastor has proven to be a man of ideas. He started the Peace Alliance and initiated the London Week of Peace, the London Leadership and Peace Awards and many other projects to give a better future to young people and validate the roles of families in building integrated communities.

Amongst many other things, he also chaired the London Criminal Justice Partnership IAG. He played an active role in the financial service and educational sectors, educating and empowering families and individuals to be financially independent and entrepreneurial.

His Conversations with Electorate Nims believes that London needs an Independent Mayor and a diverse London Assembly that will “work across the political divide; secure safety for our families and young people; unite our divided city; address poverty; promote a green London where prosperity and affordable living across London’s diverse communities can thrive.”

Asked to justify his entry into the political contest, Nims said, “I believe our city is now at a point where we can no longer afford to hand our destiny to politicians alone. Neither do I believe one political party has the answer to the many

Wealth of Experience

Obunge

challenges we face. A collaborative effort is the only way we can see our city prosper.”

Explaining why he thinks he is best suited for the job, Nims who boast of an impeccable resume explains, “Over the last 30 years, I have served in different roles across London working as a financial adviser, faith leader (Freedom’s Ark), CEO of The Peace Alliance, governor of an FE college, and been a board member for different government agencies including the London Criminal Justice Partnership. I believe my experiences within London and my continued position as an advocate against violence in our streets and homes make me the ideal candidate to put Londoners’ priorities first.”

Speaking about his background, he said, “I was born in Kensington, London at St Mary Abbott’s Hospital to the late Sir Ambassador D D Obunge and Lady Emma Obunge. My father was a Nigerian ambassador and a career diplomat. I schooled in many of the countries he was sent to as a diplomat, including the UK, Sweden, Ireland and Italy, to name a few.

“I studied political science, intending to follow in my father’s footsteps and become an Ambassador but, alas, I‘ve done everything but that – from working as a manager in Wimpy Restaurants; a licensed Mortgage Advisor; being a youth and senior Pastor; starting and leading The Peace Alliance – a crime reduction and community cohesion charity – and now running to be the Mayor of London.”

Rising Violence in London

I believe Londoners are tired of being lied to and want something fresh, authentic and different. I have built significant relationships over the last 30 years, which we can leverage to make our city safe and prosperous. I offer Londoners something new, without discounting the strengths where necessary, for some of the old. I believe London needs to be run by practitioners and professionals at a time when politicians may have failed

Explaining that his dream of calling the shot as a London Mayor was borne out of his worry over rising violence in the city of London, Nims said, “I am doing it for the right reasons.

Over the last 20 or so years, I have buried many children whose lives were cut short by the sharp blade of a knife or the burning shot of a gun. Their families have been left traumatised, and politicians have failed time and time again to articulate – let alone implement – a lasting solution.

“The truth is, I believe that the future of London is too important to leave in the hands of the political parties and their internal policy fights. I have dedicated the last 20 years of my life to actively working on bringing peace to Londoners. It is a passion of mine.”

Sticking to his campaign of peace, Nims believes his efforts at the Peace Alliance will be an advantage.

He said, “My work at The Peace Alliance was all about peace in our communities; forging cohesion within those communities and, above all, ensuring that the future of our youth is secure.

In all this, Nims believe he has an edge over other candidates. “I believe I offer London my many years of experience, a wealth of knowledge, and the passion to implement and achieve results. I run as an independent mayoral candidate, without the baggage of a political past.

“I believe Londoners are tired of being lied to and want something fresh, authentic and different. I have built significant relationships over the last 30 years, which we can leverage to make our city safe and prosperous. I offer Londoners something new, without discounting the strengths where necessary, for some of the old. I believe London needs to be run by practitioners and professionals at a time when politicians may have failed.”

We need to make London affordable, by creating innovative partnerships to fund a major drive for building homes for thousands of first-time buyers in London, and frontline key workers in the communities they serve at scale. We need to strengthen and reconnect communities through cultural hubs across London. We also need to make London electric, by championing for a new Green London and ensuring carbon neutrality by 2030. And finally, I offer a prosperous London, a London which drives entrepreneurship and opportunities for the most deprived, and actively promotes happiness and mental wellbeing.

Background Obunge was born in Kensington, London in 1965, of Nigerian parents and his father, who is from Rivers State, was a career diplomat. This meant he spent his childhood in England, Sweden, Italy, Ireland and Nigeria. He attended the University of Jos, Nigeria before returning to the UK when he was 21.

He became a pastor at 23 and is also a member of the Knife and Violent Crime Prevention Group. He chaired the London Criminal Justice Partnership Advisory Board and the Metropolitan Police Operation Blunt response to knife crime. He was a member of the Home Office Stop and Search Community Group, the Criminal Justice Partnership and the Metropolitan Police Stop and Search Scrutiny Panel.

Mayoral Election The 2021 London mayoral election will hold on 6 May 2021.

It will be held simultaneously with elections for the London Assembly and other local elections across England. The mayoral and Assembly elections were originally due to be held on 7 May 2020, but in March 2020 the government announced the election would be postponed until 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The mayor of London has responsibilities covering policing, transport, housing, planning, economic development, arts, culture and the environment. They control a budget of around £17 billion per year. Mayors are typically elected for a period of four years, with no limit to the number of terms served.

37

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER APRIL 17, 2021

MARKET PLACE with Omolabake Fasogbon... 08155131874

Teach For Nigeria Recruits new Fellows

Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Communication, Hon. Lado Suleja (left); Executive Vice Chairman, Nigeria Communication Commission, Prof Umar Dambata; former Governor of Ogun State, Gbenga Daniel; Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun; Chairman, 21st Century Technologies ltd., Wale Ajisebutu and the State Deputy Governor, Noimot Salako-Oyedele at the flag-off of Ogun State Digital Economy Infrastructure Project in partnership with 21st Century Technologies in Abeokuta...recently

21st Century Technologies Commits $75 Million to Ogun Digital Economy Project Foremost Information Communication Technology Àrm,21st Century Technologies limited ((21CTL) has partnered with Ogun state government to execute Ogun State Digital Economic Empowerment Project (OGDEIP) 21st Century injected close to $75 Million to the project in expectation that the initiative would see the economy of Ogun state grow by additional $100 billion.

The mega project was Áagged oͿ by Vice President of Nigeria, Yemi Osinbajo in the presence of Executive Vice Chairman of Nigerian Communications Commission,Prof. Umar Garba Danbatta, Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr Isa Pantami, representatives from the National Assembly and other industry stakeholders.

Speaking at the Áag-oͿ ceremony, Osinbajo commended Ogun state for taking a bold step in spearheading the move for an overall digital economy in the country.

The Vice President who launched the project virtually, acknowledged a urgent need to democratise access to internet in the country, adding that digital technology is the future of all aspects of human existence.

He said, “This project is a critical component of Mr. President’s objective of broadband connectivity for all by 2023. This ambition is now enshrined in our Economic Sustainability Plan.

As part of the national commitment to make broadband connectivity available to all, you would recall that in 2017, the State Governors under the auspices of the National Economic Council (NEC) in 2017 agreed to harmonize right of way charges which is presently being worked on.

“In another demonstration of government’s commitment , the Federal Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy launched the National Broadband Plan which is designed to deliver data download speeds across Nigeria of a minimum 25Mbps in urban areas and 10Mbps in rural areas, with eͿective coverage available to at least 90% of the population by 2025 at aͿordable prices”.

Osinbajo also commended 21st Century Technologies for its huge commitments to the project , adding that this would revolutionize every aspect of the socioeconomic life of Ogun state.

Earlier, Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, stated that the strategy

of OGDEIP was to provide broadband connectivity to every corner of Ogun State.

“This is a joint project between our administration and our partner, 21st Century Technologies Limited , to deliver Àbre-optic cables and mechanics across all our 20 Local Government Areas within the next two years.

“The Àrst phase of OGDEIP will establish a Àbre optic network ring around the entire State that will ensure connectivity particularly for key educational institutions, government agencies and residents in unconnected and under-connected areas”.

In his remarks, Vice Chairman/CEO of 21st Century Technologies limited, Wale Ajisebutu a΀rmed that the initiative would see all business sectors and citizens of Ogun state operate digitally, using Àbre networks infrastructure, knowledge infrastructure and marketing and network.

He said, “ The network infrastructure will facilitate GSM services, Ànancial inclusion , data storage, development of innovative ideas by startsup and universities.

“This would also enable industries while placing Ogun state in the heart of the 4th industrial revolution where science,technology and social media are rapidly transforming the world “

International Breweries Publishes Maiden Sustainability Report International Breweries Plc., (IB Plc.) , a proud part of AB InBev, has released its first Sustainability Report, highlighting its impact and stewardship on the economy, society and the environment.

The report themed “Driving Sustainability for a Better World,” reflects the transformational journey of the organisation, commitments, progress, challenges and opportunities in 2019.

It also communicates IB Plc’s positive and negative impact, including contributions to building a sustainable society.

Speaking on the report, Managing Director of IB Plc, Hugo Rocha, stated that the move showcases the company’s commitment to running a responsible business, focusing on the triple-bottom line approach.

He said, “More than just profit, we are dedicated to entrenching sustainability in our operations and ensuring that our activities positively impact our stakeholders. Our success is hinged on our commitment to our core vision of ‘Bringing People Together for a Better World’; our agile business model, core values in our 10 Principles, leadership, and strong corporate governance.”

Continuing, Rocha said, “We are proud of our work and commitment to our Global AB InBev 2025 Sustainability goals in Water Stewardship, Climate Action, Circular Packaging, Smart Agriculture and Smart Drinking. These form

the bedrock of our sustainability programmes across our value chain as we aim to continue to contribute significantly to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs).

“With our sustainability report, we are able to offer voluntary disclosures to our stakeholders on our Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) efforts. As a responsible business, we also pledge to continue to contribute to improving our planet, people and prosperity of all.”

According to the company, the report was prepared following the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) standards – one of the most widely used and acceptable sustainability reporting frameworks in the global business community.

It noted further that the disclosures in the report were guided by the requirements of other frameworks on sustainability such as the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC), the 2030 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs) and the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) Sustainability Disclosure Guidelines.

“The reporting scope primarily covers brewing activities across the company’s four plants in Anambra, Ogun, Osun and Rivers states, including Lagos State, the head office and other states of the federation where the company extends its impacts,” the company stated.

Speaking at the launch of the report in Lagos,

Member and Chairman of IBPLC’s Board, Committee on Sustainability and Risk Management, Mr. Olugbenga Awomolo stated that the report was a testament of the company’s business journey in recent times, as well as socio-economic footprint across entire operations.

He said, “We remain committed to entrenching sustainability across our business operations. We will proactively continue to drive compliance in meeting local and global regulatory requirements as we continue to grow the business to the benefit of our stakeholders.”

Also speaking, the firm’s Legal and Corporate Affairs Director, Temitope Oguntokun described the theme of the report as apt, adding that it is when businesses look within and outside their fences and across their value chains that they can truly create a better world.

The firm also launched its employee volunteering initiative tagged “Better World Champions” to restate its commitment to sustainable development.

The company said, “The initiative availed staff the opportunity to express their sense of purpose by giving back to the society. In the year under review, a total of 3,154 hours of voluntary service was rendered to our communities by employees while 19,601 beneficiaries were positively impacted by various social interventions courtesy “Better World Champions.”

A non-profit education focused organisation, Teach For Nigeria, TFN, has announced a fresh recruitment exercise for the 5th cohort of its fellowship programme.

The recruited fellows, mainly youth will be posted to teach students in underresourced schools across Nigeria for two years The TFN Fellowship programme is a private-sector-led solution, through which some talented Nigerians from varied disciplines explored the platform to close existing education gap.

They do so by teaching and inspiring primary and secondary school students to excel.

According to the organisation, the fellowship is open to exceptional young professionals, including non-teachers and existing teachers interested in being part of the movement to end educational inequity in Nigeria.

Speaking at the formal announcement of the recruitment exercise, TFN Ambassador, Banky W stressed the need for partnership to solve Nigeria’s education problems.

He said, “I am a product of the hardwork of my parents and a concerned teacher who believed in me and pushed me to explore my creativity and talents.

We need to understand that when it comes to fixing the

problems in Nigeria, no one can do it all. We need to do it together, we need to exercise collective efforts to rebuild our own parts of the world, rebuilding Nigeria- one child, one community and one mind at a time. As a teacher, your voice matters and I am a living proof of that.”

Also speaking at the programme, which held virtually, Chief Executive O΀cer of TFN, Folawe Omikunle stated, “The pandemic showed the important role played by every individual and stakeholder.

We saw how the power of collective eͿorts played out in the educational sector as parents, private sector organisations and government aggregated to ensure continued learning. We recognise that everyone’s voice is required in the fight for equity and we are mobilising the country’s most dynamic, passionate and resilient leaders to join in this fight.”

According to Folawe, the programme will also bridge unemployment gap by providing youths with an opportunity to develop skills and experiences useful during the fellowship programme and beyond.

“The fellows will be better positioned to access opportunities and deliver innovative solutions for the educational

Indomie Rewards Customers with Eat and Win Promo DuÀl Prima Foods Plc, maker of Indomie, has stated that its recently announced “Eat and Win Promo” was meant to reward customers who have remained loyal to the brand.

It pointed out that the promo was such that allowed consumers to consume the products while they win varieties of prize like school bags, lunch boxes, caps, T-shirts and a star prize of 100,000 naira.

Speaking at the launch of the promo, Group Public Relations and Events Manager of DuÀl Prima Foods Plc, Tope Ashiwaju stated that the exercise further aͿorded the brand a privilege to connect with its loyalist.

He said, “We are excited by the opportunity to delight our consumers. We consider this as an obligation to constantly reward and connect with them while building excitement in appreciation of their patronage and loyalty towards the brand.

“As a brand, Indomie is

always delighted to engage and reward its consumers through various means in order to put smiles on their faces. We will therefore always initiate promos and other engagement activities to appreciate our consumers who have been our biggest stakeholders over the past decades.”

Speaking further, Ashiwaju expressed optimism in the Nigerian market as he declared that the environment is favourable for organisations that do not compromise quality and standards.

He said that Indomie has enjoyed favorable patronage overtime because of its strong commitment to quality.

He added, “To qualify for the promo, consumers are required to Ànd unique codes at the back of the packs when they buy 10 packs of the product and then proceed to create a proÀle online and enter the codes on the proÀle to stand a chance of winning.

Wrappers with the unique codes will be required to redeem prizes.”

38

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ ͹Ϳ˜ ͰͮͰͯ

NEWSXTRA

Abia Raises the Alarm over Planned Attacks Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo ÓØ ×ßËÒÓË Abia State Government yesterday said that it was aware of plots by "yet to be properly identified hoodlums to attack some key locations within the state."

State Commissioner for Information, Chief John Okiyi Kalu, raised the alarm in a

special government announcement, saying that the attack was to be launched "soon".

To thwart the planned attack he said that security agencies in the state had already been fully mobilised and placed on high alert with the intention of bringing those concerned to justice swiftly.

"We wish to advise members of the public to be extra vigilant,

ensure they are at home before the curfew hours of 8p.m. to 6a.m. as well as monitor the activities of their neighbours," he said.

The commissioner also underscored the need for parents and guardians to strongly keep a tab on their children and wards and ensure they were well secured at home and not in any way associated with the

hoodlums.

According to him, intelligence reports showed that some of the attackers were coming from outsideAbia State.

He said that despite the high security alert, law abiding citizens were encouraged to go about their normal duties,

adding that residents should ensure they return home before 6.00p.m. to avoid the rush associated with movement before the onset of curfew time.

He assured that government remained "confident that the security architecture within the state is robust enough to

prevent the planned attack and/or bring those involved in the plot swiftly to justice," Okiyi said. He stated that the state government under the leadership of by Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu "will not spare any resource in ensuring the protection of law abiding citizens".

FG, AfDB to Launch Special-Agro Processing Zones Across the Country Deji Elumoye ÓØ ÌßÔË The federal government in partnership with the African Development Bank (AfDB) and other stakeholders will soon roll out a Special-Agro Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) Programme aimed at concentrating agro-processing activities in demarcated areas to boost productivity and integrate production,processingandmarketing of selected commodities.

Under the programme, the Nigerian Government, in collaboration with the AfDB and workingwithotherstakeholders suchastheInternationalFundfor AgriculturalDevelopment(IFAD) and the Bank of Industry (BoI) will demarcate areas across the 36 states and the FCT where the agro-processing centres will be established.

140 of such centres being

envisaged across the country, would be provided with basic infrastructure such as water, electricity and roads as well as facilities for skills training.

Also, small-holder farmers in thecatchmentareaswillbelinked tomarketsacrossthevaluechain.

To set off the plan in the opening phase, seven states namely Ogun, Oyo, Imo, Cross River, Kano, Kaduna, Kwara representing most of the geo-political zones in the country have been selectedinadditiontotheFederal Capital Territory. All the other states would be added later as the scheme progresses.

Briefing Vice President Yemi Osinbajo on the progress made so far in the implementation of the programme,AfDB’sActing Vice President,Agriculture, Human and Social Development, Ms Toda Atsuko, said the Bank incollaborationwithotherstake-

holderswasreadytostartthefirst phaseoftheSpecial-AgroIndustrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) Programme,havingcompleteda jointappraisalmissionacrossthe 36 states with the International Fund forAgricultural Development (IFAD).

Atsuko said the success of the project is hinged on the political willoftheBuhariadministration, adding that the plan will create jobs,andleverageontechnology with significant youth participation. Osinbajo commended the progress in the plan yesterday at a meeting at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, where he was briefed about the status of the collaboration.

The Vice President while laudingtheworkdonesofar,said there is a need to synergise really concretelywithGreenImperative (which is the partnership with the Brazilians).

Gunmen Kill 6, Injure 2 in Plateau Seriki Adinoyi ÓØ ÙÝ

PROVIDENCE...

L-R: Officials of the Borno State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), and the Speaker, Borno State House of Assembly, Abdulkarim Lawan flagging off the distribution of branded Tinubu rice donated to internally displaced persons in Borno State on behalf of the National Leader of the All Progressives Congress, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu...yesterday

Lagos Speaker takes Tinubu Rice to Borno IDPs for Ramadan Michael Olugbode ÓØ ËÓÎßÑßÜÓ Speaker of Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, has donated branded Tinubu rice to internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Borno State.

The gesture, is to cushion the hardship faced by thousands of IDPs during the Holy Month of Ramadan fasting.

The 10,000 bags of 15kg which is to be distributed to

all IDPs across the state, carry the sticker and picture of the National Leader of the ruling All Progressives Congress, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu.

Flagging off the distribution with officials of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), the Speaker of Borno State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abdulkarim Lawan, said the intervention was first of its kind since over a decade of Boko Haram crisis, and called on other

well-to-do individuals to emulate the gesture.

He said, the donation came at the right time, considering the economic hardship faced by traumatised IDPs in the state.

Lawan said Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and other humanitarian agencies have been doing a lot in managing the plights of IDPs in the state.

Abia Women are Industrious, Says Speaker Charles Ajunwa The Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Chinedum Enyinnaya Orji, has described Abia women as industrious and bringing fame to the state through their respective endeavours.

Orji, who stated this when he was honoured with an Award of Excellence by Abia branch of the National Council for Women Societies (NCWS) during their Summit and

Grand Awards Foundation Laying ceremony held at the Michael Okpara Auditorium, Umuahia, commended the wife of Abia State Governor, Dr. Nkechi Ikpeazu, for being able to galvanise the women in the state, uniting and supporting them, and further extolled her for her support to her husband, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu.

The Speaker thanked the First Lady of the state for the positive role she played in ensuring that the Abians in

Diaspora Commission Bill was passed into Law, calling on the women to continue to support the governor’s wife so that she can remain encouraged to continue with her good deeds to society.

He thanked the women for the Award of Excellence bestowed on him and promised never to relent in his political ideology of contributing to the provision of infrastructure to the people and empowerment of the citizens.

Unknown gunmen on Thursday night attacked Wereng Village of Riyom Local Government Area killing six persons in their sleep.

The attack, which took place at about 10:30p.m., left two others severely injured. Hon. Mafeng Gwalson, the Chairman of Riyom LGA of Plateau confirmed the

attack, describing the incident as sad,callingonsecurityoperativesto workandensurethatthosebehind the attack were arrested.Senator Istifanus Gyang of Plateau North SenatorialDistrictcondemnedthe “unwarrantedattackonpeaceloving and hard-working citizens.”

In a press statement signed by his spokesperson, MusaAshoms, the Senator reiterated that the kill-

ers were not unknown to security agencies.

He said, "It is sad therefore that peopleinPlateauNortharerepeatedlybeinghunted,ambushedand killedwithoutanydecisiveaction."

He urged government and securityagenciestobeseriousabout “the safety and protection of law abiding citizens from terrorists, bandits and killer herdsmen.”

PDP to Buhari: Nigerians Reject Idea of Continuity Chuks Okocha ÓØ ÌßÔË The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) said that it welcomed President Muhammadu Buhari from his medical tourism in the United Kingdom, but rejected his declaration that Nigerians should expect the “continuity” of his misrule.

According to the PDP, President Buhari must exit the Presidential Villa by 2023 as "Nigeriansvehementlyrejectany idea of “continuity” that pertains to failed economy, hunger and starvation, banditry, killings, terrorism, kidnapping, abuse of human rights, treasury looting, mindless borrowing and other vices that have characterised the APC administration under the watch of President Buhari.

The PDP also said that the statementbytheAllProgressives Congress (APC), that President Buhari had been “re-energised” after his medical treatment, was aconfirmationthatMr.President had been incapable and lethargic, leading to the inefficiency, disorganisation and general misrule that have bedeviled his administration.

The PDPin a statement by the NationalPublicitySecretary, Kola Ologbondiyan said, " While Nigerians are at a loss on the import

of President Buhari’s declaration upon his return that what they should expect is “continuity”, our party wishes to remind Mr. President that he was elected for a last term of four years which will end on May 29, 2023."

The PDP said that it holds the view that whatever purpose his frame of mind on “continuity” was made to serve, that it must not detach from the finality of his leaving office in on May 29, 2023.

Moreover, it said, Nigerians

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vehemently reject any idea of “continuity” that pertains to failed economy, hunger and starvation, banditry, killings, terrorism, kidnapping, abuse of human rights, treasury looting, mindless borrowing and other vices that have characterised the APC administration under the watch of President Buhari.

According to the PDP, "This is especially as the comment by theAPC had already confirmed that our nation had indeed been on auto-pilot leading to shambolic state of affairs in the nation, escalation of violence and insecurity, wrecking of our national economy, policy inconsistency, entrenchment of corruption and impunity, with no hope in sight."

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ ͹Ϳ, 2021

SPORTS XTRA MERSEYSIDE DERBY

Iwobi Says He’s Growing to Hate Liverpool Facing Liverpool in the Merseyside derby is a fixture everyEvertonfanlooksforward to every season.

FormerArsenal wingerAlex Iwobi revealed that he has felt the emotions of playing against the Reds, having been a player of Everton for around two years.

Two months ago, the Nigeria international was in the Toffees side that beat Liverpool for the first time at Anfield since 1999, playing the last four minutes of a 2-0 win. =Regardless of what their positions are in the Premier League table, the Merseyside

derby means everything to both fans.

Asked if he has grown to hate Liverpool, Iwobi said on Nedum Onuoha;s podcast: “I understand the passion, the hate; I am slowly engaging in it a bit more like when we beat Liverpool for the first time is

when I actually felt like we’ve beaten Liverpool, we really hate Liverpool.

“The first time we won made me realize how much there’s passion and how much there’s a division between Everton and Liverpool.

“I have been to the city a

couple of times.”

Due to the rivalry between Everton and Liverpool, sometimes the players get a pat on the back when they meet their own fans but are often treated with disdain by opposing fans, which is totally different from what Iwobi experienced during his days with Arsenal.

“The only difference for me, like you said, in north London you won’t really know who you support so you can get by.

“Here in the city of Liverpool,

you either have to pick between one or two. People have flags on their windows, people have red or blue cars.

“Even when I went to the shop once, one person refused to serve me because I’m an Everton player,” added Iwobi.

Since his move to Goodison Park in the summer of 2019, Iwobi has faced Liverpool four times, and suffered his only defeat, a 5-2 loss at Anfield, on his Merseyside debut.

Tokyo Olympics Chief Insists Games won’t be Cancelled

Everton’s forward Alex Iwobi got the better of Liverpool’s James Milner during a Merseyside derby

Iheanacho Puts Breaking Drogba’s FA Cup Record Behind Him Leicester City striker Kelechi Iheanacho has revealed the key reasons behind his form ahead of Sunday’s Emirates FACup semifinal clash against Southampton.

Since the start of last month, the former Manchester City wonderkid has tallied nine goals in six appearances in all competitions, and was named the Premier League Player of the Month for March, while missing out on the Goal of the Month prize.

Iheanacho recently signed a new threeyear contract with Leicester, keeping him at the King Power Stadium until 2024.

On what’s being key to his form, the Super Eagles striker said to LCFC TV: “I’m in a good place at the moment so I just

need to keep applying it in the game, to keep helping my team.

“Hopefully, it will be applied in the game at the weekend by God’s grace, but I just need to put in the hard work every day, you need to concentrate and work really hard.

“The form now is coming, I just need to keep my head down and keep working hard, keep going.”

When he found the back of the net in the 78th minute of the 3-1 win against Manchester United last month, Iheanacho overtook Chelsea icon Didier Drogba as the highest scoring African in the history of the FA Cup.

It was his 13th goal in the FACup since making his debut in the competition against Norwich City on January 9, 2016.

“For me personally I don’t want to think about it too much, I don’t want to lose my focus in the games.

“Probably after the season, then I’ll start thinking about it.

“Right now there are big weeks in the FA Cup and Premier League so just need that concentration and determination to win games, and get to where we want at the end of the season then after that we can now enjoy themoment,”theFoxesnumber14added.

Kayode Inspires Savasspor to Victory against Genclerbirligi Nigeria international, Olarenwaju Kayode continued his fine goalscoring form as he inspires his Turkish side, Savaspor to come from 2-0 down to win 3-2 yesterday at the Eryaman Stadyumu.

Kayode, who was brought on in the 46th minute for Isaac Cofie, levelled proceedings for Sivasspor in the 83rd minute with a fine strike after receiving a sumptuous assist from Gradel.

Jorge Felix ignited the comeback when he found the back of the net in the 78th

minute after he was set up by Erdogan Yesilyurt.

The Braves then got the winning goal moments before the end of the game after Pierre-Yves Polomat turned the ball into his own net.

The victory moved Sivasspor to the seventh spot on the league table after gathering 50 points from 33 games.

Gradel featured for 90 minutes before he was replaced by Chad’s Casimir Ninga while Mali’s Mustapha

Yatabare was on parade for 46 minutes before making way for Jorge Felix.

Kayode has now scored eight goals and provided three assists in 33 appearances across all competitions this season.

After scoring in his side’s victory over Konyaspor last time out, Nigeria international Kayode continued the fine form in front of goal at the Eryaman Stadyumu.

With Kayode’s present form, a return to the Sper Eagles for the World Cup qualifiers may just be a matter of time.

Joshua, Fury Approve Venue for Unification Fight Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury have approved the venue for their world heavyweight title unification fight, boxing promoter and Matchroom CEO Eddie Hearn, who also represents IBF, WBA, and WBO champion Joshua, confirmed.

The two heavyweights are finally set to meet in a highly-anticipated fight after agreeing terms over a two-fight deal earlier this year.

When and where the fight will take place remain up in the air, however, with a number of op-

tions for both being considered.

However, boxing promoter Hearn revealed that a choice of location is close after a meeting with Fury in Las Vegas.

“Both sides have approved the site offer that they want to go with, and now we’re just finalising the site deal and we’re in a great place,” Hearn said in an interview. “I saw Tyson yesterday. I just messaged him and said, ‘I’m in Vegas, I’m in your hotel if you fancy a ‘cuppa’(tea).”

“We just had five or 10 minutes

together and it was good, because I don’t represent Tyson Fury, so I don’t know what is in his mind.

What he basically cemented in my mind was, this is the only fight he wants, and I know that’s the same with AJ.” “It just good to say, right we’ve got the offer, we all approve. We’re moving forward now. We’re good.

It has been agreed by both sides, the option that we will take, and you’ll get the date very soon and the official announcement,” he added.

The head of the Tokyo Olympics assured the world that the postponed games will open in just over three months and not be cancelled despite surging COVID-19 cases in Japan.

Organising committee president Seiko Hashimoto was asked at a news conference if there were any conditions under which the Olympics would be cancelled.

The question comes as the general secretary of ruling LDP political party, Toshihiro Nikai, raised the possibility the day before.

Nikai, the N. 2 person in the LDP party, was asked on Thursday in an interview if cancellation was still an option. “Of course,” he replied, adding that if the Tokyo Games caused a surge in infections “there would be no meaning to having the Olympics.”

Nikai tried to backtrack later, and Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga issued a statement on Thursday saying there is “no change to the government position to do everything to achieve safe and secure Olympics.”

Hashimoto acknowledged Nikai’s concern and suggested it was probably shared by the Japanese public. Polls show as many as 80 per cent in Japan oppose holding the Olympics during the pandemic.

“The fact that he (Nikai) is concerned is a point that we need to take seriously as Tokyo 2020,” Hashimoto said. “His comment has reminded us of how tedious it was for us to feel confident or be fully prepared for delivering the games.”

Kida Backs Basketball Premier League to Resume Soon The Nigerian Basketball Federation (NBBF), has assured stakeholders that the premier league will soon resume.

President of the federation, Musa Kida, gave this cheering news in Benin. “We are on the verge of concluding a deal with our sponsor once we strike a deal the league will resume.

“Everyone is eager to have the premier league back and for us this is our focus and we have also informed the states association and clubs to prepare for the division 2 and division one championship and don’t forget Total Oil is our sponsor for these.

The basketball federation boss also revealed that the federation is working around the clock to ensure the female national outing has a good outing at the summer Olympics.

“We have lined up a series of friendlies against Belgium, Spain, Australia, Canada and the United States during their camping in the US. “We are the first African country to have its male and female teams at the same Olympics. This is unprecedented in Africa.

“For the festival, I want to give kudos to the state government and federal ministry of sports for the smooth organisation seen at this national sports festival.

Our youths have competed fairly and it further showcases the power in sports as a unifying factor,” he explained.

Sports Minister Inspects Moshood Abiola Stadium

In line with his commitment to the speedy completion of the on -going renovation of Sports infrastructures in the country, the Minister of Youth and Sports Development Sunday Dare yesterday inspected the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja to asses the level of work, and to make sure the rehabilitation is on schedule.

“I am satisfied with the progress so far, the delivery date is now June,” Dare said after the inspection tour of the facilities. “There are technologies attached to football pitches like this, when you see standard pitches, it is not just about the sand and grasses.”

“There are underbellies of technologies like the water sprinklers among others. We are trying to get things right so that with proper maintenance, we won’t be drawn back to it for another 10 years.”

Dare also re-assured that plans towards the Tokyo 2020 Olympics were on track.

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Ortom on Leadership “We have a lot of lily-livered people who masquerade as national and regional leaders in this country but are afraid to speak and advise the federal government correctly. Many leaders have confided in me that our position on ranching and rule of law are good, but cannot speak publicly in support.” – Governor Samuel Ortom of Benue State, lamenting lack of courageous leaders in Nigeria.

PENDULUM DELE MOMODU

dele.momodu@thisdaylive.com

A Tribute to Mrs Foluke Kafayat Abdulrazaq At 65

F

ellow Nigerians, it is not every day that we get to celebrate the great women of Nigeria, not because there are few of them, but because sometimes their modesty, humility and cloistered nature makes them keep away from hugging the limelight unlike their more aggressive and socially astute male contemporaries. However, Ovation often seeks out women of this ilk because that is the essence of what Ovation stands for - the celebration of Black people of quality, achievement, distinction and honour. As I have always noted, I am a male Feminist (wrote my Masters thesis on The Oppression of Women in African Literature) and an avid follower and respecter of women who have shown their competence, capability and ability by succeeding in a male dominated world.

I greatly admire such accomplished African women and it is my pleasure and privilege to felicitate and congratulate one of such women, our dear Sister, Mrs Foluke Kafayat Abdulrazaq, who marked her 65th birthday yesterday. Fondly called FKA by her friends and admirers, she is someone I like to describe as a silent powerhouse.

Despite her significant and enviable achievements, Mrs Abdulrazaq has resisted the temptation of flexing her muscles around town. She remains one of those few modest Nigerian personalities quietly serving her country well and without fuss, in a country where the commonest rhetorical question revolves around self-recognition and self-propagation, “I am such and such” or “do you know who I’m?”

I am happy and pleased that five years after I paid glowing tributes to her, on her Diamond birthday, I’m back here celebrating her again today.

This is not only because of the high esteem with which I personally hold her and her illustrious family but because she has continued to excel and make herself relevant and useful in society.

Abdulrazaq In summary, FKA attended the Yaba College of Technology and Kwara State College of Technology, where she obtained her OND and HND (Accountancy) respectively. Later, she earned a Master of Science degree in Banking and Finance from the University of Ibadan. Mrs. Abdulrazaq is also an alumnus of the Harvard Business School, Boston, USA where she has undergone leadership and financial courses.

Mrs. Abdulrazaq is no stranger to public office. Significantly, she was the Lagos State Commissioner for Finance, and later, Women Affairs and Social Development, between 1997 and 1999. As Commissioner for Finance, in 1997, she was the first and to date, the only female

Commissioner for Finance in Lagos State. To her credit, the broad policies on which Lagos State’s much vaunted Accelerated Revenue Generation Programme (ARGP) is founded were formulated during her tenure. She worked with the Nigerian Security Printing and Minting Company Limited, where she headed several departments, including Administration, Management Services, Commercial and Corporate Development. Between 1999 -2001 she was the Executive Director, ML Securities Limited a stock brokerage firm. She has also been heavily involved with the construction serving on the board of Nigeria’s largest construction company, Julius Berger plc (1997-2000) as a Non-Executive Director.

Mrs Abdulrazaq is a consummate financial guru and has been much sought after in banking and financial boardrooms for her gifted and innovative ideas and contributions to financial issues and affairs.

She was a Non-Executive Director of the United Bank for Africa Plc (UBA) from 2008 to 2020. It is noteworthy that despite the constant changes witnessed in bank boardrooms she remained a non-executive Director for so long. During her tenure, she served on various committees in the bank, and she served as chairman of the Bank’s Board’s Credit Committee as well as member of the Statutory Audit, Nominations and Governance committees until November 2019. In recognition of her contribution to the industry at boardroom level, she became the Vice-President, Bank Directors’ Association of Nigeria (BDAN) With a distinctive record of service in finance, banking, stock broking, business and public office, in June 2020 she was appointed as Vice Chairman of Transcorp PLC, a diversified conglomerate.

She is currently a member of the Institute of Directors (IoD), Women Corporate Directors,

National Council of Executives (NASFAT), Board of Trustees (Fountain University Oshogbo), Olave Baden- Powell Society (OBPS) and Sarah-Adebisi Sosan Foundation. She’s currently a member of the Governing Council of the Lagos State University (LASU).

Mrs Abdulrazaq has won several awards in recognition of her contributions to the many and varied sectors of the Nigerian economy that she has been involved with. Amongst these illustrious awards the coveted “Lagos State Woman of Excellence” Award which FKA won in 1999.

Mrs Abdulrazaq is a Justice of the Peace (JP).

In 2004, Mrs. Abdulrazaq yielded to her passionate love for education and her desire to make a genuine lasting contribution to the education of our youths in their most formative adolescent years. She founded what has now become the prestigious and highly regarded Bridge House College in Ikoyi, Lagos. The College, which is of a high international standard, is an independent private sixth-form co-educational institution that focuses on the Founders vision of bridging the gap for Nigerian High School leavers to be able cross to universities of their choices all over the world and hold their own and distinguish themselves in those institutions.

Mrs. Abdulrazaq is happily married to Dr. Alimi Abdulrazaq, a scholarly and renowned lawyer and reputable arbitrator, prominent and respected politician and successful businessman.

Dr Abdulrazaq is the first son of the highly respected and revered Alhaji AGF Abdulrazaq, one of the foremost Senior Advocates of Nigeria.

Dr Abdulrazaq and FKA’s marriage is blessed with children and grandchildren.

Please, help me raise a toast to this great woman of impeccable pedigree for her service to her nation and mankind as she marks her Blue Sapphire Jubilee. She is truly a precious gem...

25 Years Of Ovation International (Part 2)

Last week, I skipped this second part of my serialisation of the events that have shaped the existence of Ovation Magazine since it was published 25 years ago. I did this in order to address matters of serious national importance tearing the polity apart since I believed that addressing the matter could not wait because they go to the very root of our unity and future as a nation. I am therefore happy to be back on the beat today and writing about something equally positive and more pleasant.

Starting Ovation International magazine in the city of London in 1996 was not an easy task but we were determined to give it a powerful and determined shot. It was better to try and fail than fail to try. A man who is down should fear no fall. So, we took a kamikaze jump, a giant leap of faith and waited for God’s miracle to happen as we were sure it would do. And to ensure we attained and achieved our vision and goals we gave it our all and sacrificed as much as we could and more. You cannot expect people to join you in your dream or help as you go along, if you yourself do not make the personal choices and sacrifices that demonstrate that you have total belief and faith in what you ae propagating and pursuing. You cannot and should not expect understanding or assistance of others if you personally do very little in helping yourself. Once again, my biggest thanks to all those who made it happen.

Our mission was to change or, at least, improve the way in which the African man is projected and visualised. We felt that there was a genuine need to change the narrative about Black people and people of African descent because there has

always been a tendency to denigrate them. For us, the simple way to do this was by showcasing and celebrating our own success stories, our successful entrepreneurs, businesses, innovators, geniuses, artistes, celebrities and newsmakers.

Our second mission was to resist censorship in every form. This has always been a personal crusade for me, strengthened by my experience over time. It was one of the reasons I found myself in detention in 1993 and why I was forced into exile in 1995. For me, the fundament right of freedom of expression within the acceptable legal boundaries is a sacred and sacrosanct right which must be protected and always espoused. It is salutary that our leaders got it right when they made this right a basic fundamental right in all our constitutions in keeping with international norms and practice.

We took the decision that under no circumstance shall we deprive anyone of news coverage or interview. No matter how famous or notorious the personality, news is news, and it is not for us to decide or manipulate the people’s conscience or morality. It is for the reading and viewing public to decide having been provided with all the facts. We have been controversial and stirred up publicity but ultimately, we believe that it has been a positive development for the general good of all.

Our credo is that it is the right of saints and sinners to be able to express themselves without being encumbered except if downright vulgar or libellous. We have adhered strictly to this rule and it has definitely helped us achieve some monumental results. I am only expected and allowed to publish my opinion within my

personal column. I cannot muzzle anybody or bowdlerise someone else’s write-up simply because it is different form mine, or I think it does not conform to societal ethos or mores. I am proud to say with all sense of modesty and humility that our decision to practice responsible journalism of this nature has really paid off in terms of credibility and integrity. Everyone knows we are not reckless or vindictive. For example, we continue to publicize the activities of President Muhammadu Buhari more avidly and ceaselessly than most of those paid to do so, despite my sharp disapproval of his colourless and sluggish style of governance!

We promised to make high standards and quality of our publications our favourite mantra.

This is why we’ve remained with the same printing press in Enfield, England, for the past 20 years. Our readers and clients already know what to expect from us. It is a covenant that has endured till now, and which we expect to keep forever. It has made us to recalibrate the fact that Nigerians will pay for excellent quality, flair and distinction no matter how expensive it might seem.

Despite making Nigeria and Nigerians in particular, and Africa and Africans in general, our primary focus, we set out to publish a global magazine. Our determination was to ensure that our impact and esteem would reverberate and reach far flung places. Thank God, this goal was also realized by His grace. This has helped us to expand our social, developmental and business image and horizon. We have even experimented with publishing in different world languages, including English, French, Portuguese,

German and Hausa to the amazing delight of our fantastic readers and clients.

Our biggest initial challenge was funding.

What we had at the beginning was far short of our needs and requirements. We could easily have given up, but we managed to switch on the can-do spirit of Nigerians. We believed so much in the power of possibilities and it is why we can tell a success story today. At different times, we ran into troubled waters, lost our beautiful office Suite in London Docklands, including our archival materials, office equipment and so on.

We remained undaunted and unbowed. We simply soldiered on knowing that our success was being forged in the furnace of seeming gloom and disaster. In retrospect, it was good we did not have access to sufficient funding. I’m sure we would have blown and frittered it all and would not have known how to micromanage like we are able to today. It is why we have been able to adapt and cope with the otherwise devastating effect of the pandemic. We trusted in technology and have always thrived on using state of the art equipment and the embrace the latest technologies available in the industry.

Practically all our competitors took this fact for granted and soon disappeared into oblivion!

Some words of Advice! Media business is the ultimate casino. You need the spirit of a compulsive gambler to stay afloat. You also need loads of prayers. Hopefully, one or both combinations may rescue you from the perilous business of publishing and the media. Above all, you must be lucky, fortunate and blessed, as we have been these past 25 years to succeed.

We give God the glory.

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