ARISE Fashion Week Holds 20th Edition February 2

Designers on parade include, Ajabeng, Ameer by Ameer, Awa Meité, Bianca Saunders, BLOKE, Éki Kéré, Fruché,
Hudayya, I.N Official, Ituen Basi, Joy Meribe, Kadiju, Lanre Da Silva Ajayi, Mariya Sanusi, NiNiE, NKWO, Pepper
Row, Selam Fessahaye, Syari Bespoke, T.I Nathan, Tiffany Amber, UNI FORM, Vicnate, XULY. Bët and Ziva Lagos
Vanessa Obioha arrangements to host the 20th The event, which will be Africa and Africans in diaspora would be a celebration of African and design talents from the
edition of the event with the held in Lagos from February over an array of jazz-themed design and its progression over continent and beyond.
The organisers of ARISE theme, ‘Arise Fashion Week & 2 to 4, 2023, would showcase performances. the years, as well as ARISE’s
Fashion Week have concluded Jazz Festival: Future Forward’. exceptional designers from According to a statement, it role in championing musical Continued on page 5

US Renews Threat to Deny Visa to Violators of Nigeria’s Electoral Process… Page 9

Sunday 22 January, 2023
Vol 28. No 10148

[Link]
TR N
N400
UT H
& RE A S O

Amao: NAF Expects Delivery of 27 Fighter Jets,

Attack Helicopters to Boost Fight against Terrorism
Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja Air Force (NAF) was expecting Amao, who made the disclosure stated that the NAF had effectively include: Two Beechcraft King He further disclosed that there
the delivery of additional new during an operational visit to the operationalised the usage of Air 360, four Diamond DA-62 were ongoing acquisitions of 12
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air platforms, which President Nigerian Air Force Institute of new and modern platform in surveillance aircraft, three Wing Agusta 109 Trekker multi-role
Marshal Isiaka Oladayo Amao, Muhammadu Buhari approved Safety and 209 Quick Response the battlefield. Loong II UCAVs and 6 T-129 attack
yesterday said the Nigerian for the service. Group, Ipetu-Ijesa, Osun State, The expected air assets helicopters. Continued on page 5

Governors Not Opposed to Naira

Redesign, Seek Engagement with CBN
Set up Soludo-led six-man committee Fault NFIU’s ban on cash withdrawals
from govt’s accounts No going back on cash withdrawal limits, agency replies govs
CBN launches cash swap scheme to mop-up old banknotes
Onyebuchi Ezigbo, James
Emejo in Abuja and Okon
Bassey in Uyo

Governors of the 36 states

under the aegis of the Nigeria
Governors’ Forum (NGF) have
said they are not opposed to the
naira redesign policy by the
Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).
The position of the governors
has ended the speculations that
those opposed to the naira
redesign would lobby the 36
governors to put pressure on
the governor of the apex bank,
Godwin Emefiele, to suspend
the policy.
The governors, however, faulted
the recent directive by the Nigeria
Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU)
banning banks from executing WE COME IN PEACE…
demands for cash withdrawals L-R: National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, Dr. Iyorchia Ayu; Presidential candidate of the party, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar; Emir of Minna, HRH Alhaji Umar
Farouq Bahago; the party’s vice presidential candidate and Governor of Delta State, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa; and Sokoto State Governor, Hon. Aminu Tambuwal, during a
Continued on page 5 courtesy visit to the monarch before the party’s presidential campaign rally in Minna…yesterday

It’s Time for Change, Atiku Declares, Says APC a Disappointment… Page 9
2 SUNDAY JANUARY 22, 2023 • T H I S D AY
SUNDAY JANUARY 22, 2023 • T H I S D AY 3
4 SUNDAY JANUARY 22, 2023 • T H I S D AY
JANUARY 22, 2023 • T H I S DAY, T H E S U N DAY N E W S PA P E R 5

PAGE FIVE
GOVERNORS NOT OPPOSED TO NAIRA REDESIGN, SEEK ENGAGEMENT WITH CBN
from all public accounts, saying that require policy variation keep abusing our laws. The central bank disclosed this conducting electronic transactions. on new naira notes and cashless
the guidelines were outside the particularly the poorest “We want every stakeholder in a circular dated January 20, Furthermore, designated policy, he said, “The CBN will
agency’s mandate. households, the vulnerable in to appreciate that we have 2023, which was addressed to agents are eligible to collect the take action against banks that
But in a swift reaction, the society, and several other citizens cooperated for too long. We held DMBs, Mobile Money Operators redesigned notes from DBMs collected new notes but refused
NFIU yesterday said that there of our country that are excluded. a deep breath while defending (MMOs), Super Agents and in line with the Revised Cash to load them into their ATMs”.
is no going back on the cash “Collaborate with the CBN these deficiencies internationally, Agents, and signed by both Withdrawal Limit policy. CBN Seeks Monarchs’
withdrawal limit guidelines and the Nigerian Financial just to continue to remain in the CBN Director, Banking Sector Agents are also permitted Assistance on Nationwide
it issued earlier this month Intelligence Unit (NFIU) in international pay points and Supervision, Mr. Haruna Mustafa, to charge cash-out fees for the Enlightenment
regarding the financial operations advancing genuine objectives compete with others. and Director, Payments Systems cash swap transactions but are In a related development,
of the three tiers of government. within the confines of our laws, “We are in support of working Management Department, Mr. prohibited from charging any the CBN has appealed to the
To address the challenges of noting that the recent NFIU together to stop these challenges Musa Jimoh. further commissions to customers traditional rulers to help in
financial inclusion and under- Advisory and Guidelines on and in the most progressive Under the programme, the old for the service. enlightening their subjects on
served locations, the CBN has cash transactions were simply manner.” N1,000, N500, and N200 notes The CBN also stated that agents the new notes and the cashless
launched a cash-swap programme outside the NFIU’s legal remit Tukur had on January 5 can be exchanged for the newly shall render weekly returns to policy of the apex bank in their
in partnership with super agents and mandate. argued that the ban on cash redesigned notes and/or the their designated banks regarding respective communities.
and Deposit Money Banks “Finally set up a six-member withdrawals was meant to existing lower denominations cash swap transactions. DMBs The Branch Controller, Central
(DMBs). Committee to be chaired by the halt the indiscriminate manner including N100, N50, and N20 shall in turn render the same to Bank of Nigeria, Uyo branch,
The programme, which will governor of Anambra State, Prof. in which cash was being taken among others which remain the CBN every week. Akwa Ibom State, Itohan Mercy
come into effect tomorrow Charles Soludo, and the governors out of public accounts without legal tender. Also, cash swap agents will Ogbomon-Paul, appealed at the
(Monday), allows people in rural of the following states: Akwa regard for the extant provisions The CBN explained that the be readily identifiable in all local weekend when she led other
areas or those with limited access Ibom, Ogun, Borno, Plateau, and of the Money Laundering Act. agents shall exchange a maximum governments, particularly those CBN officials from Abuja and
to formal financial services to Jigawa as members, to engage Tukur said the ban, scheduled of N10, 000 per person, adding in rural areas. the Uyo branch on an advocacy
exchange old naira notes for the CBN in addressing anomalies to take effect from March 1, that amounts above N10, 000 may The principals shall, however, visit to the OkuIbom Ibibio and
redesigned notes. in the country’s monetary covers cash withdrawal from be treated as cash-in deposits be held accountable for their President General of Akwa Ibom
The apex bank has also management and financial public accounts and payment into wallets or bank accounts agents' adherence to the above State Traditional Rulers Council,
appealed to the traditional system,” the communiqué added. of estacodes and travelling in line with the cashless policy. guidelines. Edidem Solomon Etuk, in his
rulers to help in enlightening The governors, however, allowances. The apex bank, however, The apex bank stressed that palace.
their subjects on the new notes insisted that the recent NFIU directed that the BVN, NIN the cash swap programme is in The Branch Controller who
and the cashless policy of the Advisory and Guidelines on CBN Launches Cash or voter's card details of the furtherance of its naira redesign spoke after presenting samples
apex bank in their respective cash transactions were simply Swap Scheme to Mop customers should be captured policy to sustain nationwide of the three redesigned notes to
communities. outside the NFIU’s legal remit up Old Banknotes as much as possible. awareness/sensitisation the OkuIbom as well as flyers and
In a communique issued and mandate. The central bank added that programmes, enforce speedy pamphlets printed to aid in the
yesterday following a virtual Meanwhile, in a move to to promote financial inclusion, collection of the new banknotes ongoing nationwide sensitisation
meeting held on Thursday where No Going Back on Cash address the concerns raised the service is also available to at CBN branches by DMBs and campaign explained that the old
they received a briefing from the Withdrawal Limits, by the 36 governors on the anyone without a bank account. mandate issuance of the new banknotes of N1,000, N500 and
Governor of CBN, Emefiele, Also, agents may on request, notes through ATMs to ensure N200, which were still being used
on the naira redesign policy
NFIU Replies Govs challenges of financial inclusion
instantly open a wallet or account distribution is fair, transparent side-by-side with the new notes
and under-served locations, the
and its economic and security CBN has launched a cash-swap leveraging the CBN Tiered KYC and evenly spread across the would be phased out completely
Meanwhile, the NFIU yesterday Framework. This ensures that country. on January 31, 2023.
implications, the governors said that there is no going back programme in partnership with
expressed resolve to work closely super agents and the banks. this category of the populace On his part, the Managing She said: “We are here for
on the cash withdrawal limit can exchange or deposit their Director of NIRSAL Microfinance the Central Bank of Nigeria
with the CBN leadership to guidelines it issued earlier this The programme, which will
ameliorate areas that required come into effect tomorrow, allows cash seamlessly without taking Bank, Dr. Abdullahi Abubakar sensitisation on the redesigned
month regarding the financial unnecessary risks or incurring Kure, also urged Nigerians to notes. As we speak, some of our
policy variation. operations of the three tiers of people in rural areas or those
The governors also said in with limited access to formal undue costs. approach their banks to get the officials are already going round
government. Under the initiative, agents are new notes and return the old ones. the local government areas.”
the communiqué signed by In a statement signed by its financial services to exchange
the interim Chairman of NGF old naira notes for redesigned mandated to sensitise customers Addressing traders at Garki She urged the traditional rulers
Chief Media Analyst, Ahmed on opening wallets/bank accounts old market in continuation of “to help in enlightening their
and Governor of Sokoto State, Dikko, NFIU made it clear that notes.
Hon. Aminu Tambuwal, that and the various channels for CBN’s sensitisation of Nigerians subjects.”
it had given enough time for all
they have set up a six-member entities in the country to withdraw
committee to engage the CBN cash above the approved daily ARISE FASHION WEEK HOLDS 20TH EDITION FEBRUARY 2
to address anomalies in the limit, adding that it was no longer
country’s monetary management The 2023 edition would Syari Bespoke, T.I Nathan, Fashion Week, which returned Naomi Campbell, Alec Wek,
in the interest of the country and feature a diverse set of Tiffany Amber, UNI FORM, to Lagos in 2018 following a Grace Jones, Oluchi Onweagba,
and financial system. its citizens to continue to indulge
On October 26, Emefiele world-class designers, namely: Vicnate, XULY.Bët and Ziva six-year break. Previous editions Bethann Hardison, Tyson
in such violation. Ajabeng, Ameer by Ameer, Awa Lagos. have been held in Lagos, Abuja, Beckford, Alton Mason, Imaan
announced the plan to redesign The statement noted that the
the naira to control the money Meité, Bianca Saunders, BLOKE, Since its inception in 2007, New York, London, Cape Town, Hammam, Davidson Obennebo
Director of the NFIU, Modibbo Éki Kéré, Fruché, Hudayya, I.N the pioneering fashion event, Johannesburg, Washington, D.C., and Nyagua Ruea.
supply and aid security agencies Hamman Tukur, had stated at
in tackling illicit financial flows. Official, and Ituen Basi. which has been held under and Dubai. Global superstars such as
the end of his meeting with the Others are: Joy Meribe, various names. They are The ARISE Fashion Week Rihanna, Jay-Z, Wizkid, Asa,
The CBN governor had said governors that the agency was,
the introduction of new notes Kadiju, Lanre Da Silva Ajayi, ARISE Magazine Fashion runway has been graced Solange and Mary J. Blige have
however, ready to cooperate with Mariya Sanusi, NiNiE, NKWO, Week, ARISE Africa Fashion by some of the most iconic performed for its prestigious
was a deliberate step by the the six-man committee set up to
government to check corruption Pepper Row, Selam Fessahaye, Week, and ultimately ARISE models globally, including audience.
work with it.
and counterfeiting of the notes. The statement quoted the
The governors said that while Director of NFIU, Modibbo
they were not opposed to the Hamman Tukur, as saying that
objectives of the naira redesign the agency was ready to partner
policy, the apex bank should with the Soludo-led committee.
consider the peculiarities of “Secondly, we acted within
households and states, especially our functions and the law. We
on financial inclusion and under- issued the guidelines to control
served locations. the barrage of investigations that
“We, the members of the we saw coming. Our guidelines
Nigeria Governors’ Forum are meant to help the governors
(NGF), received a briefing from not to fight them or any public
the governor of the Central Bank servant.
of Nigeria, Mr. Godwin Ifeanyi “We reached a stage that if
Emefiele, on the naira redesign, we allow the present scenario to
its economic and security Awa Meité Ameer Saunders Bloke
continue, all public institutions
implications including the new will drift into structured cash
withdrawal policy. Governors are withdrawals of certain amounts of
not opposed to the objectives of money, which by law, standards
the naira redesign policy,” the and best practices must be
communique said. investigated continuously which
“However, we observe that is neither desirable nor reasonable.
there are huge challenges “We feel communities must
that remain problematic to move on by accommodating
the Nigerian populace. In changes and adjusting to new
the circumstances, governors developments.
expressed the need for the CBN “Last time we issued the local
to consider the peculiarities of government guidelines we were
states especially as they pertain taken to court but we won the
to financial inclusion and under- case.”
served locations and resolved to: “But to eternally guarantee this
“Work closely with the CBN
leadership to ameliorate areas
kind gesture is to automatically Ajabeng Éki Kéré Fruché Banke Kuku

AMAO: NAF EXPECTS DELIVERY OF 27 FIGHTER JETS, ATTACK HELICOPTERS TO BOOST FIGHT AGAINST TERRORISM
helicopters and 24 M-346 attack training. and the Unmanned Combat Aerial remnants of terrorists still preying apolitical but only exercise they must ensure that public
aircraft. He said the new and modern Vehicles (UCAV). on soft targets". their legal franchise, which is perception of the NAF and the
He added that some of the air assets were instrumental to He maintained that the Nigerian He, however, warned that being the constitutional right to vote Armed Forces of Nigeria remained
additional platforms are expected the successful bombing campaign military was winning the war complacent at this point would be for any candidate of their choice. positive and unblemished.
to be delivered to the NAF before against terrorists and insurgents. against terrorism in the country, harmful to ongoing operations and "We must continue to maintain The CAS was accompanied
the end of first quarter 2023. Air Marshal Amao, attributed with the aid of these modem called for more focus, vigilance our integrity and neutrality as a by the Air Officers Commanding
This, he said, would further the successes recorded by the NAF platforms. and caution. Service," the CAS added. Special Operations Command,
boost NAF's air power in the theatres of operation to the He emphasised that "more still Commenting on the upcoming He further urged NAF Air Training Command, some
employment and projection newly acquired JF-17 Thunder needed to be done to completely general election, the CAS urged personnel to remember that as Branch Chiefs and Directors from
capabilities as well as air combat aircraft, A-29 Super Tucano aircraft decimate and flush out the NAF personnel to remain custodians of Nigeria's constitution, Headquarters NAF.
6 T H I S DAY, T H E S U N DAY N E W S PA P E R • JANUARY 22, 2023

NEWS

FINANCIAL PARTNERS…
L-R: Regional Industry Director for Financial Institutions in Nigeria, International Finance Corporation, Aliou Maiga; Chief Talent Officer, Coronation Merchant Bank, Pai Gamde; Chairman,
Coronation Merchant Bank, Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede; Regional Vice President for Africa, IFC, Sergio Pimenta; and Regional Director for Nigeria and Central Africa, IFC, Dahlia Kahlifa,
during a courtesy visit by a delegation from the IFC to Coronation Headquarters in Lagos...recently

Don’t Allow PDP Back to Power, Tinubu Tells Nigerians

APC presidential campaign director quits party
Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja and ago, do not trust their deceptive the impact of extreme weather, Chairman of the APC, Senator loyal to Nigeria. failures of leadership the country
Ibrahim Shuaibu in Kano promises. Do not let them back drought and flood cycles on Abdullahi Adamu, Muhammad She added: "Our political had experienced over the years.
into power. Like locusts, they will crop yields. said after much reflection and parties have no ideological “Nigerians must be aware
The presidential candidate of devour everything in their path! “Our initiatives will ensure careful consideration, she decided differences and are simply of the consequences of their
the All Progressives Congress “Instead, vote for the people Jigawa farmers can cultivate their to part ways with party politics. robes that politicians wear to decisions and their choices.
(APC), Bola Tinubu, has again that have a track record of lands all year round,” he added. She disclosed that she had serve their personal needs and Therefore, restricting one's
told Nigerians not to allow the delivering prosperity to the “If you elect me, I will realised that her values and interests at any given time. choice to a single political
Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) people. We did it in Lagos and consolidate the ongoing beliefs no longer align with "As a result of which we see party will be detrimental to the
back to power, insisting that it Borno states, and with your help, infrastructural revolution by party politics. politicians changing from one development of our country and
would be disastrous to allow we will do it again for Nigeria. networking our entire country Muhammad said: "In line with robe to another whenever it our democracy,” she added.
the main opposition party to Vote for the people with the with good roads that would spur article 9.5 (i) of the Constitution suits them. What is important Muhammad said as a Nigerian
return to power again. vision, capacity, competence development. We will use the of the All Progressives Congress at this point is the individual fighting for a better Nigeria, she
Tinubu said this yesterday and integrity to do what is right. road network to connect our (APC), I am writing to you to wearing the robe and not the was deeply committed to the
when he addressed the “Vote for responsive and major agricultural and industrial inform you of my resignation robe itself. struggle for a more just and
party’s supporters at the APC responsible leadership. Vote hubs," he said. from the All Progressive "I am committed to supporting equitable society.
presidential campaign rally held for us. Vote for the APC on Also speaking, the Jigawa State Congress (APC). individuals that are truly She said she believed that
at Mallam Aminu Kano Triangle, February 25 and March 11.” Governor, Badaru Abubakar "I am by this letter also interested in addressing the all Nigerians deserved the
Dutse, Jigawa State. The APC presidential described Tinubu as his dear informing you of my resignation root causes of our challenges opportunity to live a life of
This is coming as a staunch candidate said his administration father who would soon be the as the Director of the Civil as a nation. To remain true to dignity, security and opportunity.
supporter of President would build on the achievements "father of the nation." Society directorate of the PCC such commitments, one must be “Nigeria has a long history of
Muhammadu Buhari, and of President Muhammadu of the APC. willing to take bold and decisive struggle to build a better future
director of the Presidential Buhari. APC Campaign Director "It has been a great honour steps. Quitting party politics at for all its citizens. Despite many
Campaign Council (PCC) of the He promised to revamp Quits Party Weeks to working with you to contribute this point is one of such steps." challenges, we remain resolute
APC, Naja’atu Muhammad, has the agricultural sector, while towards the building of our dear Muhammad said everyone to overcome them and create
resigned her membership of the also giving great attention to Elections nation. However, some recent recognises that Nigeria is facing a more prosperous, stable, and
party, a few weeks before the developing infrastructure across Meanwhile, a director of the developments in the country’s many challenges, including just society.
forthcoming elections. the country. PCC of the APC, Muhammad, political and democratic space insecurity, poverty, inequality, “I remain committed to
The former governor of Lagos Tinubu added: “The vast has resigned from her make it impossible for me to and lack of access to basic protecting the rights and
State in a statement issued arable land in Jigawa will be membership in the party. continue to participate in party services, saying such challenges freedoms of all citizens and
yesterday by his Media Office activated to make this state Muhammad, who is a politics." require the consolidated efforts promoting a culture of tolerance
also urged the people of Jigawa a place to reckon with in prominent Kano politician, was Muhammad stressed that the of competent and patriotic and respect. I believe that
State to vote for responsive and agro-business and agro-allied the Director of the Civil Society challenges that Nigeria faces leadership across every level diversity is one of our greatest
responsible leadership in the industries. Directorate in the PCC of the today require her to continue of governance. strengths and that by working
upcoming general election and “We will build upon the gains ruling APC. championing the struggle for According to her, Nigerians together, we can build a stronger,
not allow the main opposition already recorded in agriculture In a letter dated January 19, a better country with a clear must be aware of the severity of more united country,” she
party back to power. in this state. We will invest in 2023, and addressed to the conscience, even as she remained their situation after the dismal explained
He said: “You did the the expansion of irrigation and
courageous job of chasing water management systems to
away the locusts eight years increase productivity and reduce
NDLEA Storms Edo Forests, Razes Cannabis
ARISE TV Correspondent
Emerges Plateau Journalist
Warehouses, Arrests Four Suspects
of the Year Seizes $269,000 fake dollars in joint operation with EFCC in Lagos
Seriki Adinoyi in Jos for February 5, 2023 at the Michael Olugbode in Abuja Omoruan Theophilus, 37, who the services of armed youths trafficking of fake USD currency
Tamarald Event Centre, Jos. parades as a Police Inspector to protect the warehouses. in Lagos.
ARISE NEWS Channel’s A member of the Barely hours after the Chairman/ to convey the drugs from the According to a statement During a combined operation
Correspondent in Plateau State, Correspondent Chapel of the Chief Executive Officer of the forests to the cities and three issued by the agency, accessing carried out by NDLEA operatives
Mr. Douglas Francis, has been Nigeria Union of Journalists National Drug Law Enforcement others: Aigberuan Jacob, 42; the forest took hours of with their EFCC colleagues, a
voted 'Plateau Journalist of the (NUJ), Douglas is also a devout Agency (NDLEA) Brig. Gen. Ekeinde Anthony Zaza, 53, and trekking by hundreds of total of $269,000 counterfeit US
Year, 2022’ by Plateau people Christian and a Minister with Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd.) Naomi Patience Ohiewere, 42, NDLEA operatives who were dollars were recovered from the
both within and outside the state. the Redeemed Christian Church vowed to make life tough for was arrested in connection with ambushed with a bonfire by syndicate at the Oniru Shoprite
Francis emerged first place of God (RCCG). drug barons and cartels in the drugs. armed youths on their way area of Lekki, Lagos, where three
following his online nominations He is a grassroots the new year, operatives of The Opuje community in out of the community the suspects were arrested.
and voting by members of investigative journalist, who the agency have dealt a lethal Owan West Local Government following day but were able While commending all
the public as monitored and goes after the news instead blow to a cluster of cannabis Area, Edo State, is notorious for to successfully leave the area the officers involved in the
confirmed by the Plateau Man of waiting for it. syndicates operating in the cannabis cultivation, where the without any casualty except two special operations in
of the Year Awards panel of jury His love and passion for the Opuje forests in Edo State. cartels invest huge resources, the heavy investment losses Edo and Lagos states for
which lasted from December media industry has led him In a two-day operation, the cutting down economic trees inflicted on the cartels. their professionalism and
21 to 31, 2022. to earn numerous accolades agency destroyed and set ablaze of the forest reserves and In the same vein, the agency commitment, Marwa has
The prestigious award would from both local and national massive warehouses and tents cultivating cannabis on a large through intelligence received since directed that the fake
be presented to him by the COA organisations, and individuals storing over 317,417 kilogrammes scale, running into hundreds from the Drug Enforcement dollars recovered and suspects
Media Group, organisers of who love his style of journalism. (317.4 metric tonnes) of the of hectares. After harvest, they Administration of the United arrested in the Lekki operation
the Plateau Man of the Year His watchword is passion for psychoactive substance. build warehouses inside the States busted a criminal be immediately transferred to the
Awards at a ceremony slated the job and serving humanity. At least, a police impersonator, forest reserves and employ syndicate involved in the EFCC for possible prosecution.
SUNDAY JANUARY 22, 2023 • T H I S D AY 7
8 T H I S DAY, T H E S U N DAY N E W S PA P E R • JANUARY 22, 2023

NEWS

COMMITTEE OF FRIENDS…
L-R: Chairman, Maco Universal Nigeria Limited, Chief Cosmos Obiedelu; Chairman, High Point Maritime Limited, Chief Marius Nwankwo; Father of the groom and Chairman, JC Jones Limited,
Chief J C Mbadugh; Chief Executive Officer, Full Page Communications Limited, Chief Ingram Osigwe; and Chairman, Ancolin Ventures Limited, Chief Amaechi Obodo, at the traditional
wedding ceremony of Ikechukwu and Somtochukwu at Oraukwu town, Anambra State…recently

Tompolo’s Oil Surveillance Company

Kicks as EFCC Detains Head of Operations
Sylvester Idowu in Warri against the massive theft of the criminal diversion of the nation’s our ED Operations and Technical he did not, as the persons delivered on 25/11/2017, the
nation’s crude oil resources. resources, it was aware of efforts flew straight from Port Harcourt concerned were intelligence banks allowed Capt Warredi
The operatives of the Tantita The company alleged in being made to strangulate its (where he was coordinating the assets who provided valuable access to his accounts. The EFCC
Security outfit belonging to a statement yesterday that operations. operations) to Lagos to heed the intelligence and needed to be which was the 1st respondent
the former Commander of the the EFCC arrested and has The company alleged that EFCC’s invitation and walked protected. before the Court of Appeal in
Movement for the Emancipation been detaining its Director of some powerful forces in the right into a trap. Tracing the history of the that case never appealed the
of the Niger Delta (MEND), High Operatives and Technical, Capt. country are hiding behind “While Tantita is determined current rift with the commission, judgment.
Chief Government Ekpemupolo, Warredi Enisuoh, who plays a operatives of the EFCC to use to carry on the fight against the company said: “Sometime in “Then in September 2022,
better known as Tompolo, have pivotal role in the N48 billion the commission to scuttle the the oil thieves regardless, it is 2015/2016, the EFCC commenced one month after Tantita began
raised the alarm that their pipeline surveillance contract in intensified action against the our position that the EFCC’s four cases against Capt Warredi operations, the EFCC invited
operations have been endangered Lagos from January 19, 2023. theft of Nigeria’s oil resources investigation, if genuine, can and several others. Of the four, Capt Warredi and asked him
by the Economic and Financial In a statement issued in the country. be carried out with minimal three have been concluded, all how he gained access to the
Crimes Commission (EFCC). yesterday, the company said The company alleged that interference to the war on oil in favour of Capt Warredi. accounts.
Tantita Security Limited is at that while it was resolute and efforts to secure the release of thieves and if not, it is clearly “The last one is presently “He showed them certified
the forefront of the campaign resilient in its fight against the Enisuoh, who is being detained being used by powerful forces ongoing before Honourable true copies of the judgment of
after he honoured an invitation to scuttle the war on oil thieves. Justice Faji of the Federal the Court of Appeal; they also
by the EFCC, have proved Let Nigerians be aware of what High Court Lagos. Before these asked him to make statements,
Nnamani Reacts to Suspension, abortive.
The surveillance firm said that
is being done in their name,”
the statement explained.
cases were instituted, the EFCC
issued orders to various banks
which he did and pointed out
that the questions bordered on
Says PDP Violated His the EFCC invitation came in the
middle of an ongoing operation
The company explained that
Warredi had four cases with the
to block all of Capt Enisuoh’s
bank accounts.
the ongoing trial before the
Federal High Court, Lagos,
Rights to Fair Hearing to uncover one of the biggest
oil-stealing cartels in the country.
anti-graft commission, out of
which he won four.
“He challenged
administrative order in court
this the investigating team led by
Mr. Lawal Aminu claimed to
Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja “I was not also invited to any “On the 19th of January 2023, It was stated that Enisuoh on the basis that the EFCC has be unaware of the case; so, he
meeting, proceeding or hearing of Tantita’s Executive Director, got a judgment of the Court no power to freeze accounts provided a certified true copy of
A former Governor of Enugu the NWC of the party where my Operations and Technical, Capt. of Appeal CA/L/1320/2016 without a court order and the the charge and pointed out that
State and Senator representing supposed offence (s) was/were Warredi Enisuoh was invited delivered on 25/11/2017 to access Federal High Court lifted the the prosecution was being led
Enugu East, Dr. Chimaroke discussed. I was therefore not by the EFCC and detained. his bank accounts which were freeze orders. by Mr. Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN),
Nnamani, has said that the allowed to make representations He has been in EFCC custody frozen by the EFCC. “The banks failed to comply; a staff of the EFCC. He declined
Peoples Democratic Party on my behalf at any meeting since. All efforts to ensure his The firm said further that so, he brought contempt to make further statements on
(PDP) violated his right to a where the proposal and decision release have proved abortive, in September 2022, one month proceedings against them; a matter sub judice.
fair hearing. to suspend me from the party as the commission has insisted after Tantita began operations, somehow the new judge handling “However, as the war against
The National Working was made. that unless he provides a list of the EFCC invited Warredi and the contempt proceedings froze oil thieves firmed up many of
Committee (NWC) of the “My right to fair hearing names who were his intelligence asked him how he gained access the accounts again. Capt Warredi them have continued to threaten
party had on Friday suspended was consequently violated sources he would not be released. to the accounts. appealed to the Court of Appeal that those trying to stop their
Nnamani with immediate effect against the clear provisions of “The EFCC’s invitation came The statement alleged further which overturned the second nefarious business would pay
over alleged anti-party activities. the constitution of the party, right in the middle of an ongoing that the EFCC is giving a judge and restored the orders dearly for it.”
His suspension may not especially in disciplinary operation to unravel one of the condition to Enisuoh to provide of the first judge. Based on The company alleged that the
be unconnected to his open proceedings. More importantly, biggest oil stealing cartels in this the names of those who received that judgment of the Court of EFCC asked Warredi to name
declaration of support for the superior Constitution of the country. Capt Warredi Enisuoh, money from the account, which Appeal in CA/L/1320/2016 his intelligence sources.
the presidential candidate of Federal Republic of Nigeria,"
the All Progressives Congress
(APC), Bola Tinubu, against
the presidential candidate of
he added.
Nnamani appealed to his
supporters to remain calm NNPP Asks Atiku, Tinubu to Withdraw from
his party, Atiku Abubakar.
But reacting to the suspension
slammed on him by the PDP,
and law-abiding, while they
continued with the campaign to
a hopefully victorious conclusion.
Presidential Race over Corruption Allegations
the lawmaker said he was He thanked his constituents, Ibrahim Shuaibu in Kano before the comity of nations for Atiku and Tinubu to strive better Nigeria we all desire and
not invited to any meeting, the Ebeano political family, the over accusations of high level to rule the nation until the deserve," he explained.
proceeding or hearing of the people of Enugu State and The New Nigeria People’s corruption and drug peddling court decides their fates one He explained that the
NWC of the party where his Nigerians for their overwhelming Party (NNPP) has urged the against Atiku and Tinubu. way or the other. National presidential candidate of the
supposed offence was discussed. support and solidarity. presidential candidates of He said that he that goes to interest supersedes personal NNPP, Senator Rabiu Musa
The former governor said Nnamani added: “I’m the Peoples Democratic Party equity must come with clean interests, aggrandizement and Kwankwaso, will give Nigerians
his suspension from the party overwhelmed by the outpouring (PDP), Atiku Abubakar and hands. grandstanding in the quest for a new lease of life after years of
came to him as a rude shock of love and solidarity to me his counterpart in the All According to him, the NNPP a better, greater, progressive, wandering in political wilderness
and huge surprise. across the length and breadth Progressives Congress (APC), demands the immediate equitable and just democratic from the oppressive APC and
Nnamani, however, assured of Nigeria and even across Bola Tinubu to withdraw from withdrawal of both presidential nation. PDP regimes.
his constituents and Nigerians the political divide since the the presidential race over serious candidates to answer to charges "Nigerians are tired of recycled "Eligible Nigerians should
alike that his political career was suspension was announced. allegations of corruption and preferred against them in court. politicians who have numerous collect their PVCs now and let
alive and unshaken. “I’m grateful. It is reassuring drug peddling that have made According to the NNPP cases of corruption, drugs, birth/ their voice be heard loud and
He stated: "I was never at that my political career is alive. mockery of the 2023 general spokesman, "It is moral burden educational certificates, health clear in the forthcoming elections.
any time notified of any petition It is not threatened. We are going election. for the two candidates to and questionable source of Your vote is your power to elect
or complaint against me or into the forthcoming elections In a statement by the National continue in this race at a time wealth. Citizens want men and credible, resourceful, courageous
informed of the grounds that very confident. We will win at all Publicity Secretary of NNPP, Nigerians are looking for a women of integrity, visionary, and progressive leaders that will
formed the decision of the NWC the levels of elections in Enugu Dr. Agbo Major, the party stated younger and unblemished crop purposeful, resourceful, dynamic deliver dividends of democracy
of the PDP to suspend me from State. Our people know where that Nigeria has been brought of leaders. and transformational leaders to the masses, and not carnage",
the party. we are,” he added. to ridicule and disrepute "There is no moral justification to usher them to a new and he added.
T H I S DAY, T H E S U N DAY N E W S PA P E R • JANUARY 22, 2023 9

NEWS

CONSULTATIVE FORUM…
L-R: Minister of Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola; All Progressives Congress presidential candidate, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu; and Minister for Mines and Steel Development, Mr. Olamilekan
Adegbite, at the APC presidential candidate's Consultative Forum with members of the Federation of Construction Industry in Nigeria in Abuja…recently

US Renews Threat to Deny Visa to

Violators of Nigeria’s Electoral Process
TOmo-Julius Onabu in Asaba Mr. Will Stevens, stated this in Electoral Act has the potential in free, fair and credible polls we are interested in is free, fair, be found ineligible for a visa to
Asaba, Delta State, in the OpenGov for deepening democracy and that represent the wishes of the and credible elections that represent the US,” he added.
Town Hall meeting in the Niger entrenching democratic culture people and expressed delight at the people. Stevens said his mission to Delta
The United States Government Delta region organised by the in Africa's most populous country. the Electoral Act, which he said, “These elections are important. State and the South-east was for
yesterday warned that it would Niger-Delta Open Observatory The US envoy clarified that the has good measures to strengthen Nigeria is the fifth largest democracy pre-election monitoring to look and
deny a visa to anyone who (NOGO), supported by the USAID US government has no preferred voting security. in the world; so, when the people see how things are developing.
encourages electoral violence or Strengthening Civic Advocacy and candidate or political party in He said: “The US does not of Nigeria come to vote, you are He added that the consulate
undermines the 2023 electoral Local Engagement (SCALE) project, Nigeria’s forthcoming elections. have a preferred candidate, full showing the strength of democracy is doing all within its powers to
process in Nigeria. implemented by Palladium. Stevens said the American stop! “We are not interested in a to the rest of the world,” he added. understand what is happening
US Consular General (Nigeria), He noted that Nigeria's new government was only interested particular party or candidate. What He said the US had been working and articulate such to US citizens.
with the Nigerian government as The high point of the event was

It’s Time for Change, Atiku Declares,

partners to support the Independent the signing of a commitment by
Electoral Commission (INEC) some gubernatorial candidates in
and civil society organisations to the Delta State governorship race
enable them to hold candidates to a social contract with the people

Says APC a Disappointment accountable.

Stevens also disclosed that
the US had provided nearly $50
million in technical assistance to
of the state.
Gubernatorial candidate of the
PDP, Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori,
represented by the Director
A battle line has been drawn, Wike tells Ayu the electoral umpire to strengthen
the mechanisms that would allow
General of the Delta PDP Campaign
Council, Mr. Funkekeme Solomon;
Cautions presidential campaign council against accessing rally venue Nigerians to feel comfortable that
their votes would count.
gubernatorial candidate of the
APC, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege,
Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja and Port that the PDP first constructed ready to care for you, a man who is Wike Cautions Atiku’s “We in the United States represented by Dr. Austin Izagbo,
Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt before you demanded for change, ready to love all Nigerians, a man Campaign Council will discourage any politicians, and Mr. Sunny Ofehe of Young
now have you seen the change? who does not care whether you citizens, or other parties who are People’s Party, YPP were among
The presidential candidate of the What did the change bring? It are a Muslim or a Christian, he is against Accessing Rally encouraging electoral violence or the governorship candidates that
Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), brought insecurity, hardship, and ready to attend to your needs and Venue seeking to undermine the electoral signed the document.
Atiku Abubakar, yesterday advised economic meltdown. that is Atiku Abubakar”. In another development, process. Others are Mr. Kennedy Pela and
Nigerians to cause another change “We appeal to you to return PDP A Battle Line Has Been Drawn, Wike has threatened to cancel “One thing we have done in Dr. Goodnews Agbi, candidates
in leadership, describing the ruling for improved security, development, Wike Tells Ayu the approval given to the PDP the past and continue to do is that of the Labour Party (LP) and the
All Progressives Congress (APC) and other things in Niger and the Meanwhile, Wike has stated presidential campaign to use those who seek to undermine the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP),
as a disappointment. country at large. that the dissolution of the PDP Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium if democratic process can and will respectively.
But following the dissolution of “You voted for APC; have you the venue is accessed before the
executive in Ekiti State by the Ayu- approved hour.
not seen the difference? Now is the
the executive committee of the PDP
in Ekiti State, Governor Nyesom
Wike of Rivers State yesterday
time for another change,” Atiku
added.
led National Working Committee
(NWC) would be challenged in
The governor said the stadium
can only be accessed two days before
Ohanaeze Announces Burial Date
declared that a battle-line has been
between the National Chairman of
Also in his remarks, PDP
National Chairman, Dr. Iyorchia
court.
Wike, who dared the PDP and
the rally, adding that members of
the campaign did not have the right
for President-General, Obiozor
Ayu to suspend him or any of the over when to use the venue. Gideon Arinze in Enugu He said there would be
the party, Dr. Iyorchia Ayu and the Ayu, noted that under the APC,
G-5 governors. Niger State has become the G-5 governors, warned that the This development comes amid a activities before the burial of
Speaking to a crowd of headquarters of insecurity in resort to despotism by the NWC crisis in the PDP over the position The National Executive Council the late diplomat, including
supporters in Minna, Niger State, Nigeria with as many as 10 local would not do the PDP any good taken by stakeholders, including (NEC) of the apex Igbo socio- a valedictory session at the
Atiku reminded the people that governments under insurgents’ in the forthcoming general election. the five governors led by Wike cultural organisation, Ohanaeze national secretariat and other
their desire for change led them to control at one time. The Rivers State governor stated Speaking at the weekend at a Ndigbo Worldwide has announced activities at the National Institute
vote for APC in previous elections. He noted that Niger State this yesterday, while speaking at the campaign rally in Oyigbo LGA, dates for the burial ceremony of of International Affairs (NIIA),
He, however, noted that since is home to the most mineral state PDP campaign flag-off rally Wike specifically warned the its late president general, Professor Victoria Island, Lagos and Abuja.
they did not get what they expected resources in the country but is in Bori, Khana Local Government Director General of the Presidential George Obiozor. He also announced that the
from the ruling party, the February still the epicentre of poverty. Area of the state. Campaign Organisation in the state, Obiozor was elected as the 10th burial committee would be chaired
25 election would present a While imploring the people He explained that the reason Abiye Sekibo, not to force his way President-General of Ohanaeze by former President-General of
good opportunity to replace the to vote for Atiku, he said a PDP why the dissolution of the Ekiti into the stadium days before the Ndigbo on January 9, 2021, to Ohanaeze, Gary Enwo-Igariwey,
government. government will return the state State working committee will be rally. succeed Chief Nnia Nwodo, who with Imo State chairman of the
He promised that his to the path of progress. challenged in court is because there “Let me also use this opportunity completed his four-year tenure. body, IC Ihemedu as its secretary.
administration will restore security Ayu welcomed back a former are still members of the PDP who to warn Abiye Sekibo, we Obiozor died in December According to him, all the
to the beleaguered state. deputy governor of the state, believe in the rule of law and that have made approval for your 2022 at the age of 80. members of NEC and other
The former vice president also Ambassador Ahmed Musa Ibeto, the need for the party to respect presidential candidate to use Governor Hope Uzodimma of stakeholders across the seven
said his administration would and other decampees to the main its constitution. Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium, on Imo State, who had announced states of Ohanaeze would also
revisit the Baro Port, which was opposition party “Let me also use this opportunity February 11. You have no right to his death in a statement, described form the burial committee.
initiated under the previous PDP-led Also speaking, the PDP vice to say to Iyorchia Ayu and his team, begin to go to the stadium now. the late Obiozor as “an exceptional “A central planning committee
government. presidential candidate and governor your dissolving Ekiti State Exco We cannot give you access to the diplomat and a tenacious patriot, will come up together with sub-
“We want to appreciate the of Delta State, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, will not help you in anyway. Your stadium now. We can only give whose demise was a big loss to committees,” he said.
people of Niger State for their told the crowd that the almost eight you access to the stadium two the state, South-east and entire “The chairman and the
suspending people will not help days before the occasion for you Nigeria.” secretary will handle that,” he
support since we came to the state. years of APC in government have you in anyway. The battleline has
May God bless you all. We pray been damaging to the country. to prepare,” he said. Announcing the burial added.
been fully drawn. As I speak to “Nobody gave you one month. arrangement yesterday during Emuchay also announced that
that God brings peace to the state. Okowa averred: “In the last eight
years, the APC government has you, we will do everything legally So, if you dare it again, to go and an emergency meeting of the the Deputy President General of
“You know that only PDP can
bring peace to Niger. When PDP done great damage to Nigeria. possible to challenge any decision force yourself into the stadium, NEC at the national secretariat Ohanaeze, Joel Kroham who died
was in power from 1999 to 2015 was They brought poverty to us, they we know is illegal. I will cancel the approval with of the organisation in Enugu, its last August would be buried on
there insecurity in Niger? We want brought insecurity to us, and they He stressed that the Ayu-led immediate effect. Dare it again, I secretary general, Okey Emuchay February 4, 2023, in Rivers State,
to assure you that if you return to have divided Nigeria and that is NWC resort to tyranny would will cancel it. Heaven will not fall. If said that the late Obiozor would noting that this was the first time
PDP, we will eliminate insecurity not what we want as a people. do more damage to the PDP as heaven falls now, we will be happy be buried on Friday, February that the organisation was losing
in Niger. “PDP has brought a father, a far as the 2023 general election is that it was in our time heaven came 10, 2023, in his home town in its president and deputy president
“We also assure you that the Baro man who is humble, a man who is concerned. down,” Wike threatened. Awo-Omamma, Imo State. general at almost the same time.
10 T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R
˾
JANUARY 22, 2023

NEWS News Editor: Gboyega Akinsanmi

E-mail: [Link]@[Link],08152359253

A NEW CHIEF IN TOWN…

L-R: Mr. Olajide Sofela, Mr. Rotimi Adekoya; Newly installed Otun Akogun Onisowo of Ibadanland, Chief Olawale Olufemi Junaid; Mrs. Yetunde Abiodun; and Mrs. Adetutu Onamusi, during the installation ceremony of
Chief Junaid in Ibadan…recently

Cases of Diphtheria Hit 100 in Kano

Ibrahim Shuaibu in Kano cases of diphtheria and with journalists yesterday in He said: “We have lost three droplets and contact with a vaccine preventable disease,
four cases of Lassa fever Kano. among the eight confirmed, and contaminated clothing and and its antigen is among the
A former governor of Jigawa in 12 Local Government Tsanyawa listed the local 22 among other suspected cases. objects. pentatonic vaccine (PETA) taken
State, Mr. Sule Lamido, has Areas of the state. government areas where the Currently, 27 patients are on “Symptoms range from three times (PENTA-3) before
described the recent endorsement Consequently, Public Com- diseases are ravaging to include admission receiving treatment mild to severe fever, cough, the age of one year.
of the presidential candidate of plaints Commission (PCC), an Ungogo, Nassarawa, Bichi, Dala, while 41 have been managed sneezing, sore throat, neck “From our records, most
the Labour Party (LP), Mr. Peter agency of the federal govern- Dawakin Kudu, Fagge, Gwale, and discharged successfully. swelling, difficulty in of the patients are not being
Obi, by former President ment, advised Nigerians to abide Kano Municipal, Kumbotso, He described diph- breathing. Complications fully vaccinated, and those
Olusegun Obasanjo as “a by the warning of the NCDC on Rano, Dawakin Tofa and Gwarzo. theria as an acute toxic may include damage to the vaccinated are resisting being
big mistake.” the recent outbreak of diphtheria. Of the 100 cases of diphtheria, infection caused by the heart, kidney damage, and protected. This has shown that
The Kano State Govern- The Commissioner for the health commissioner said corynebacterium species, bleeding with death in up to immunization is highly effective
ment yesterday confirmed Health, Dr. Aminu Tsanyawa eight were confirmed, while transmitted from person to 21 per cent of cases.” and protective against all vaccine
that it had recorded 100 revealed the figure at a session awaiting more results. person through respiratory Tsanyawa said diphtheria is preventable disease.”

Philanthropist Writes IG over Wike Donates N200m to Traders Affected by Market Remodelling
Unresolved Murder of 30 in Ebonyi Blessings Ibunge in Port
Harcourt
remodelling works at the A-Line
section of market.
million to assist the traders
re-acquire their shops after
Ikpeazu explained that the
quality of remodelling work
A philanthropist, Chief Julius Ebonyi State Government of failing He stated that his Rivers the reconstruction. at the market has vindicated
Oji, has petitioned the Inspector- to halt the killings in the state, Rivers State Governor, Mr. State counterpart expressed his He commended the contrac- his interventionist move to
General of Police, Usman Baba, especially Edda where known Nyesom Wike, has donated sympathy and support to the tor handling the remodelling remodel Ariaria market after
over the killing of over 30 people culprits of the campaign of violence N200 million to traders who traders who were displaced as works, Blessed Henken Inter- more than 40 years to make
in Ebonyi Community. in the area are let go after were affected by the ongoing a result of the ongoing work. national Company, for working it a true international market.
Three indigenes of Ekoli each round of killing. remodelling works at the Describing Wike as his friend in line with specifications and The governor who also
Edda community and a police He said the government Ariaria International Market, who has stood with him and interpreting the government’s donated N100 million to the
inspector were also killed on just set up another com- Abia State. Abia people, Ikpeazu explained vision for the market and traders explained that the
December 26, 2022 during an mission of inquiry after Abia State Governor, Dr that he had informed the urged him to increase the donations are for the first 600
attack on the Chairman of All the recent killings in spite Okezie Ikpeazu disclosed governor about the ongoing pace of work to ensure early original shop allottees to enable
Progressive Congress in Ebonyi of similar panels set up in the this while inspecting ongoing work and he pledged N200 completion. them recommence business.
State, Mr Stanley Emegha. past and recommendations
In the petition copied the
Senate President, Ahmed
made which were not acted
upon. Ondo, Cross River, Ekiti Govs Declare Work-free Days for Collection of PVCs
Lawan, Speaker, House of Rep- He said that in the last eight
resentatives, Femi Gbajabiamila years the Edda community had Fidelis David in Akure retary, Richard Olatunde, said workers, artisans, and other sised. There is an urgent need
and Chairman, National Human recorded over 30 cases of murder, the declaration of Tuesday, well-meaning residents of the for us to address the low rate of
Rights Commission, Tony Ojukwu, arson, rape, grievous assault, and Governors Oluwarotimi January 24, 2023, as a public state to seize the opportunity and PVC collection in the Southwest.
the business mogul accused the intimidation, among others. Akeredolu of Ondo State; Ben holiday by the governor was collect their PVCs, also called on Beyond partisan lines, our
Ayade of Cross River State; and to enable all eligible voters in the the people to place a premium people must understand that the
Two Abducted Primary School Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State,
have approved work-free days
state to collect their PVCs at the
Independent National Electoral
on the collection of PVCs to
enable them to exercise their
PVC is their license to enthrone
desired political leadership.
Pupils Rescued in Nasarawa to enable civil servants in their
states to collect their Permanent
Commission (INEC)-designated
centres in their respective local
franchise in the forthcoming
elections.
“We are constrained to take
this decision to enable our people
The Nasarawa State Police Com- ongoing to rescue the other four Voter Cards (PVCs). government areas. The statement read: “The to take this advantage and collect
mand yesterday two females have pupils unhurt and to arrest the A statement signed by According to him, the governor importance of the forthcoming their PVCs. We all must exercise
been rescued out of the six pupils perpetrators. Akeredolu’s Chief Press Sec- who urged civil servants, private elections cannot be overempha- our civic responsibilities.
of LEA Primary School abducted The victims are said to have
on Friday at Alwaza Village, Doma been taken to hospital for medical
Local Government Area (LGA).
The command’s Police Public
examination and shall be handed
over to Doma LGA chairman to Shun Violence, Use Your PVCs Wisely, Diri Tells Youths
Relations Officer, Ramhan Nansel, reunite them with their parents.
who confirmed this to Channels The two pupils’ rescue comes Olusegun Samuel in Yenagoa ity Youths Day 2023’, at the Bayelsa youths are not violent and programmes targeted
Television on Saturday, noted that after the Commissioner of Police Ecumenical Centre in Igbogene, a but intelligent and productive. at building their capacity.
the pupils were rescued around was said to have visited the scene. Bayelsa State Governor, Senator sprawling community in Yenagoa, “Elections are a very serious “Do not allow politicians to
2:30 pm at Sabon Kwara village, The command stated that a joint Duoye Diri has urged youths the Bayelsa State capital. business of choosing leaders that use you as cannon fodders to
Jenkwe Development Area of Obi team comprising of the police, to shun electoral violence and He described the PVC as a tool will lead them towards prosperity, advance their selfish political
LGA in the state. military and vigilante groups use their Permanent Voter Cards that confers political power on development and growth.” interest. They tell you lies and
The operation, he said, was had also been mobilised to the (PVCs) to elect credible leaders the electorate and that what the He also urged youths to give you peanuts to harass
achieved with sustained pressure area to trail the abductors. with the capacity to deliver on youths need is the card, which shun drug abuse and all acts and intimidate other politicians
mounted on the abductors by The incident occurred barely a sustainable development, peace he said is more powerful than of violence before, during contesting with them.
the combined search-and-rescue week after the police in Nasarawa and economic prosperity. an AK-47 rifle. and after the elections and “Always believe in God and
team that included sister security dispersed suspected kidnappers at The governor said this while He said, “The PVC is your stressed the need for them yourselves. Shun drug abuse and
agencies in the state. Saraduana forest in Toto LGA of addressing youths during a AK-47. You do not need any gun to key into the govern- cultism. What God has for you,
Nansel added that efforts are the state and rescued 30 victims. programme tagged, ‘Prosper- or machete to intimidate anyone. ment’s various policies nobody can take it away.”
SUNDAY JANUARY 22, 2023 • T H I S D AY 11
12 SUNDAY JANUARY 22, 2023 • T H I S D AY
SUNDAY JANUARY 22, 2023 • T H I S D AY 13
SUNDAY JANUARY 22, 2023 • T H I S D AY 14
THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ‡JANUARY 22 , 2022 15

BUSINESS Editor: Festus Akanbi

08038588469 Email:[Link]@[Link]

Nigerians Count Losses as

Power Grids Collapse Again
In the power sector, it’s still a blame game, as frequent grid failures and power outages have
IRUFHG1LJHULDQVWRUHO\RQJHQHUDWRUVWRUXQWKHLUEXVLQHVVHVZLWKGLVDVWURXVÀQDQFLDO
consequences. But as Festus Akanbi points out, all eyes are on President Muhammadu
%XKDUL·V DGPLQLVWUDWLRQ WR À[ WKH SRZHU VHFWRU DV D JRRG OHJDF\ EHIRUH KDQGLQJ RYHU
power in May if it really wants to write its name in gold

W
ith the current the NBET of failing to meet its obligations to
VWDWHRIDͿDLUVWKH the GenCos under the Power Purchase Agree-
power sector may ments (PPA).
be one of the areas According to Ogaji, NBET owed the GenCos
where the current N214.93 billion in 2015, N273.32 billion in 2016,
administration N236.47 billion in 2017, N264.08 billion in 2018,
has failed to turn and N256.97 billion, N266.01 billion, and N120.25
things around in billion in 2019, 2020, and 2021.
LWVQHDUO\HLJKW\HDUVLQR΀FH NBET, on the other hand, claimed that not all
This is because, despite the massive amount GenCos were eligible for unutilised capacity
of money approved for the sector’s turnaround, payments.
power sector operators’ performance has con- According to her, the “illiquidity caused by
tinued to deteriorate, with power generation the huge sums owed GenCos by NBET, has
dropping to 2,200MW from 3,553MW last week. more than ever before continued to frustrate
Despite the poor performance of the power the GenCos and kept them incapable of meeting
sector, the federal government claimed last WKHLUREOLJDWLRQVZKLFKDUHH[WUHPHO\QHFHV-
week that it paid N120 billion in 2022 to sub- sary to keep their power plants running and
sidise electricity consumers in selected bands, make capacities available, while observing
including C,D, and E, a decrease from a peak of required Health, Safety and Environment
N552 billion before the Muhammadu Buhari (HSE) standards.
DGPLQLVWUDWLRQWRRNR΀FH Such obligations include timely operations
While defending the state of the sector, Special and maintenance (O&M), procurement of critical
Adviser to the President on Infrastructure, capital, spare parts and accessories, payment
Mr Ahmad Zakari, said during a live-TV DQGVHUYLFLQJRIH[LVWLQJOHQGHUDQGÀQDQFLHU
programme that it was in a coma when Buhari loans, employee obligations, and so on.
WRRNR΀FHLQ “Recently, GenCos cried out to the authorities
According to him, the subsidy has continued and are still hoping for a favourable consider-
WRVHUYHDVDEXͿHUQRWRQO\IRUWKHSRRUDQG DWLRQRIWKHLUSOHDVIRUIRUHLJQH[FKDQJHVXSSRUW
vulnerable but also to mitigate the impact of to enable them to procure critical spares for
JUDGXDOLQFUHDVHVLQHOHFWULFLW\WDULͿV A transmission station their turbines and equipment to keep them
Analysts noted that the new disclosure in good working order.
GLͿHUVVLJQLÀFDQWO\IURPFRPPHQWVPDGHE\ (Steam) 101MW, Omotosho (Gas)164.60MW, This is in addition to the FX challenges faced
Zainab Ahmed, Minister of Finance, Budget, of that total. And this varies by region. In a
state like Taraba, only 19% of households are Omotosho NIPP (Gas) 101MW, Paras Energy by the Hydros, whose concession fees are dol-
and National Planning, on March 11, 2022, that (Gas) 65.80MW and Sapele (Steam) 85.80MW. larised”. According to analysts, the regulatory
the federal government had ‘quietly’ removed reported to have access to electricity.
Over 40% of Nigerian households own gen- In a similar document titled: “Distribution authorities lack of seriousness is to blame for
‘all’ power sector subsidies. /RDG3URÀOH'DWDDVRI#µ the power sector’s persistent failure to respond
Unfortunately, the performance of power erators and bear the costs associated with them.
First, the cost of purchasing generators – an the SO revealed that it allocated 2,888MW to the to various interventions, particularly after the
sector players has continued to embarrass the 11 electricity distribution companies (DisCos). sector was privatised.
government as little or nothing is shown for HVWLPDWHGPEHWZHHQDQGLV At its meeting on April 27, 2022, the Federal
KLJKHUWKDQWKHSURSRVHGFDSLWDOH[SHQGLWXUH The allocation was as follows: Abuja DisCo
the humongous investment in the sector. 389MW, Benin DisCo 237MW, Eko DisCo ([HFXWLYH&RXQFLO )(& DSSURYHGWKHDZDUG
To serve its 218 million people, Nigeria re- in Nigeria’s 2022 budget.
“There’s also the cost of running these 371MW, Enugu DisCo 277MW, Ibadan DisCo of three contracts to accelerate the improvement
quires an estimated 25,000MW to 40,000MW 349MW, Ikeja DisCo 409MW, Jos 166MW, of the country’s power supply.
of capacity. generators. The Minister of Power, Abubakar Aliyu, con-
This huge investment in generators is con- Kaduna DisCo 193MW, Kano 205MW, Port
The installed generating capacity is currently Harcourt 209MW and Yola 83MW. ÀUPHGWKHDSSURYDOZKLOHEULHÀQJVWDWHKRXVH
around 12,522MW, and transmission and ÀUPHGE\WKH$IULFDQ'HYHORSPHQW%DQNZKLFK correspondents following the FEC meeting. He
distribution infrastructure can only deliver an HVWLPDWHGWKDW1LJHULDQVVSHQGELOOLRQRQ stated that the contracts were for the purchase
fuel for petrol or diesel powered generators.” Debt Burden
average of 4,000MW to businesses and homes. Meanwhile, theAssociation of Power Genera- of major electricity transmission equipment.
Analysts argued that the current poor perfor- In recent months, Nigerians have lost faith in 7KHÀUVWZDVDPRGLÀFDWLRQWRDQH[LVWLQJ
the current government’s inability to reverse tion Companies (APGC) has blamed the drop
mance could be attributed to the national grid’s in output on grid disruption. contract for the Katampe-National Stadium 132
failure and the fact that, rather than investing the downward trend in power supply to homes
and businesses amid indiscriminate pricing of In a WhatsApp conversation with THISDAY, direct circuit line, which is about 90% complete.
heavily in the sector, distributing companies APGC Managing Director Dr. Joy Ogaji stated, The second authorisation was for the design,
were only interested in reaping abundantly. petroleum products and the resulting increase manufacture, and supply of two (2) 60 MVA,
in the cost of doing business. “There was grid disturbance.”
When asked why there was a grid outage, 132/33 kV power transformers.
Using Generators to Run a Business VKHVWDWHG´'XHWRLQVX΀FLHQWSD\PHQWµ The third approval was for a contract to design,
Today’s reality is that Nigerians continue to Load Shedding
Last week, many businesses and homes were According to her, the Nigerian Bulk Electricity build, and instal a 260-kilometre transmission
rely heavily on generators, which consume vast Trading Company (NBET) owes GenCos more line from Birnin-Kebbi to Yauri in Kebbi State,
amounts of resources due to the high cost of left in the dark due to another episode of system via Zuru.
grid failure, as power sector operators blamed than N1 trillion.
diesel and petrol, and there is no public power. “It’s estimated to be more than one trillion
According to a June 2022 report titled “Nige- the poor performance on debt. Good Legacy
According to data released by the Independent naira,” she said.
ria’s State of Power: Electrifying the Nation’s She went on to say that under GenCos’ With over 20 grid-connected generating plants
Economy” published by Stears and Sterling, System Operator of the Transmission Company
of Nigeria in the document it released last week contract, the outstanding are divided into two LQ1LJHULDPDQ\SODQWVVXͿHUIURPUHFXUUHQW
more than 40% of Nigerian households own categories: unpaid invoices for power generated challenges such as maintenance and repair
and use generators. which was titled: “List of GenCos and their requirements, trips, faults and leakages that
MW Load at 14:00hours on 17/01/2023,” and consumed from 2015 to the present.
,WDOVRVWDWHGWKDWWKHDͿHFWHGKRXVHKROGV She added that the outstanding payment make them unavailable for evacuation to the
VSHQWDSSUR[LPDWHO\ELOOLRQSHU\HDUWRIXHO only 10 out of 24 power plants generated the
2,200MW. It implies a loss of 1,253MW within included payment on capacities made avail- national grid sometimes.
their generators as the national grid’s power able and tested annually by the Nigerian Bulk To save the economy, there is an urgent need
supply continued to fail. one hour, indicating a 35.26% decrease in the to intervene in the power sector.
energy production of the Nigeria Electricity Electricity Trading Company (NBET).
According to the report, the cost of diesel and Given the reliance on technology for the
petrol used by Nigerians to generate electricity Supply Industry (NESI). upcoming election, it is clear that the current
The document showed that the 10 electric- Blame Game
KDVDVLJQLÀFDQWHFRQRPLFLPSDFWRQKRXVHKROGV According to analysts, power sector operators poor performance of the power sector cannot
and businesses. ity Generation Companies (GenCos), which
produced the 2,200MW were Alaoji NIPP appeared to have mastered the act of shifting ensure a smooth process at the polls, as most
“On average, Nigerian households have blame over a track record of disappointing voting machines will be powered by electricity.
electricity in their homes for 15 to 18 hours (Gas) 102.40MW, Azura-Edo (Gas) 422MW, This is one of the reasons why President
Jebba (Hydro) 369MW, Kainji (Hydro) 390MW, performance by resorting to a blame game.
per day,” it said. )RUH[DPSOHGXULQJDVLPLODUV\VWHPIDLOXUH Muhammadu Buhari must put his foot down
Generators provide 44 per cent (or 6.8 hours) Odukpanu NIPP (Gas) 307MW, Okpai Gas
ODVW\HDUWKH$3*&([HFXWLYH6HFUHWDU\DFFXVHG and restart the power sector.
 16
THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ‡JANUARY 22 , 2022

AVIATION

Resolving Shareholding
Controversy over National Carrier
Revelations from court proceedings indicate that airline operators and other stakeholders
want a national carrier where more Nigerians are allowed to own shares in the company so
that it will be fully representative of the country, writes Chinedu Eze
Airlines (second defendant), Senator Hadi Sirika
(Minister of Aviation) and the Attorney General
of the Federation.
The court document obtained by THISDAY with
suit number FHC/L/CS/2159/2022 indicated
WKDW$21 WKHSODLQWLͿV VRXJKWRUGHUVDJDLQVW
the defendants, which include an order directing
the immediate, fresh and transparent bidding
SURFHVVHV HV LQYROYLQJWKH3ODLQWLͿVEHLQJWKH
indigenous Airline Operators in Nigeria rightly
entitled to participate in the process; an order
directing the immediate revocation and cancella-
tion of the Air Transport License (ATL) issued by
the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA)
WRWKHÀUVWGHIHQGDQW 1LJHULD$LU DQGDQRUGHU
RI1ELOOLRQDVGDPDJHVIRUWKHLQMXU\VXͿHUHG
E\WKHSODLQWLͿVDQGVWLOOVXͿHULQJEHFDXVHRIWKH
´ZURQJIXOH[FOXVLRQRIWKH3ODLQWLͿVZURQJIXO
action; unlawful bidding and selection processes
DQGWKHLUZURQJIXOSURMHFWLRQRIWKH3ODLQWLͿV
as not having properly, rightly, and timely bid
the Nigeria Air project.”
AON alleged that the Minister of Aviation
GLGQRWIROORZGXHSURFHVVLQWKH3ULYDWH3XEOLF
3DUWQHUVKLS 333 DUUDQJHPHQWLQ1LJHULDEXW
circumvented the process through abridgement
WKDWZDVVLJQHGE\WKH3UHVLGHQWRI1LJHULDDQG
LQVLVWHGWKDWWKH3UHVLGHQWGRHVQRWKDYHWKH
powers to sign such arrangement without recourse
to the National Assembly.
So the Nigerian airlines also sought an order
for the declaration “that the action, conduct
and or decisions in the sale of the shares and
operations of the 1st defendant (Nigeria Air)
violates the Companies and Allied Matters Act
(CAMA) 2020, SEC Nigeria Consolidated Rules

M
DQG5HJXODWLRQV 1,3& $FW,QWHUQDWLRQDO&LYLO
any Nigerians are really not one but a private airline. We could call years they operated in Nigeria. Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Convention, Civil
calling for a broader ZKDWZHDUHEHLQJRͿHUHGDVDÁDJFDUULHUZKHQ “So I think it is that area that makes $YLDWLRQ$FW3XEOLF3URFXUHPHQW$FW&RQFHV-
ownership of the private individuals are having 46 per cent of the people push for the core investor. Also, sion Regulatory Commission (Est.) Act, 2005,
shares of Nigeria’s 51 per cent in commonwealth belonging to us the core investor gives access to spares, )HGHUDO&RPSHWLWLRQDQG&RQVXPHU3URWHFWLRQ
national carrier, nationally and in partnership with a foreign airline helps with a credit facility, and also gets $FW3URFXUHPHQW3URFHVVHVIRU3XEOLF3DUWQHUVKLS
Nigeria Air. Many of with 49 per cent. That is no more a national carrier good ratings and credit based on their in the Federal Government under the National
the doubts hovering EXWDÁDJFDUULHUZKLFK$LU3HDFH$ULNRU$HUR experience, based on their credit facility 3ROLF\RQ3XEOLF3ULYDWH3DUWQHUVKLS 13 DQG
around the planned could have become if we do a thorough job on which helps reduce costs. It is on that Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulation, 2015 and
airline stem from the belief that the shareholding the audits of these airlines,” Ojikutu remarked. basis that they push for a technical core other regulatory statutes on aviation, companies
was not transparent and this was the disposition He said that with the kind of spread in the investor who can support and also help and investment laws in Nigeria.”
of the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), which shares of Nigeria Air and the federal government us to market what we cannot access,” ,QLWVFRXQWHUD΀GDYLWWKHQGGHIHQGDQW
went to court to stop the airline from proceeding DORQHKDYLQJMXVWÀYHSHUFHQWRQEHKDOIRIWKH he said. (Ethiopian Airlines) said as far as it was aware,
as presently constituted. nation “do we envisage that the planned airline Ohunayo also opined that the stakes the sale of Nigeria Air’s shares was absolute
Industry stakeholders call for a proper review is truly a national carrier?” of the core investor could be lowered to DQGWKHUHIRUHZDVQRWXQGHUD3XEOLF3ULYDWH
of the shareholding to ensure that Nigeria, beyond 30 per cent but could start with 40 per 3DUWQHUVKLSDVDOOHJHG
the federal government, has greater stakes than Strategic Investor cent, “but we must have it at the back of “The Federal Government of Nigeria agreed
the airline’s foreign partners. But industry stakeholders also agree that there our mind that, that percentage should be to sell 95 per cent of its shares in the 1st de-
AON and others, however, made it clear that is a need for the national carrier to have a strategic trimmed down to have more Nigerians IHQGDQW 1LJHULD $LU  UHWDLQ ÀYH SHU FHQW
they are not against the establishment of a national investor and technical partner, as represented by and more Nigerian operators.” invite 46 per cent of Nigerian investors, and
carrier, but there should be adjustments in the Ethiopian Airlines in Nigeria Air, to propel the “It is important to involve the Nigerian 49 per cent to an international airline. By the
ownership, and its establishment should be done airline to success and also sustain its operation operators in the business and also build arrangement, the majority stake of 51 per cent
in a clear, transparent manner. to an agreed time. This is because it is obvious a second or third airline. It is not just in the 1st defendant is retained by Nigerians
Industry expert and Executive Secretary of that for the airline to succeed it must be insulated to recommend that these airlines are VR WKDW HͿHFWLYH FRQWURO RI WKH DLUOLQH VKDOO
Aviation Round Table (ART), Group Capt John from the vagaries and whims of top government operators, we need to give them that remain with Nigerians.”
Ojikutu has called for proper scrutiny of the share R΀FLDOVZKRFRXOGLQWHUYHQHLQVXFKFRQFHUQV ÁDJFDUULHUVWDWXVDQGVXSSRUWWKHPRQ Ethiopian Airlines also in its defence admit-
ownership, insisting that foreign companies even if the government owns a one per cent stake. international routes rather than abandon ted asking the Federal Government of Nigeria
should not owe more shares in a national carrier The Director of Research, Zenith Travels and them. And again, the airlines too, they for 15 years tax moratorium, among other
than Nigerians. 3XEOLFLW\6HFUHWDU\RI$572OX2KXQD\RLQ also need to look at the ownership. They incentives, for it to partner with the national
“We need to seriously oppose not only the an interview with THISDAY, urged that the need to spread ownership so that people carrier, arguing that its request was a normal
Ethiopian Airlines investment of 49 per cent establishment of the airline has to be transparent will have that feeling that this is a national practice in international investment negotiations,
shares in Nigeria Air but also the MRS where a and follow due process so that it would have a airline and also entitled to the national insisting that it had not violated any known law
foreign individual shareholder has 60 per cent long lifespan when established. commonwealth,” Ohunayo stated. in the country or elsewhere.
shareholdings in the company. ´:HOO , WKLQN JHWWLQJ FHUWLÀFDWLRQ IRU WKH Industry observer told THISDAY that Ethiopian
“Similarly, in the SAHCOL investment, just new airline is not a problem; you can easily get All-inclusive Treatment Airlines also has enviable reputation for its profes-
three individuals of the Afolabi family owe 78 FHUWLÀFDWLRQ IRU 1LJHULDQ $LU FDUULHUV :KDW The Airline Operators of Nigeria said VLRQDOLVPDQGDOZD\VQHJRWLDWHWREHQHÀWIXOO\
per cent (1.06billion) of the total 1.3billion shares KDVEHHQGL΀FXOWLVKDYLQJFRPPHUFLDOOLQN- that it is the lopsided treatment in favour from its partnerships, while it ensures that the
of the company. Whatever the reasons made ages and partnerships that would be respected of Nigeria Air that prompted it to go to entity thrives “because it is when the company
the authorities consider these investors as the and acknowledged by other competitors in the court and urged the federal government LVGRLQJZHOOWKDW\RXZLOODOVRHDUQSURÀWIURP
appropriate for the national carrier; Nigeria Air industry and by the international [Link] to follow the laid down process and also the engagement.”
needs a serious rethinking now before it gets too in doing this, the easiest way, the easiest route extend the privileges given to Nigeria So Nigerians are calling for more openness
late. Are we really establishing a national carrier to such deals is having a foreign core investor. Air to other domestic airlines. and involvement in the Nigeria national carrier
with government equity or a private airline with And that played out with Virgin Nigeria. If you 7KLVZDVFRQWDLQHGLQWKHVXLWÀOHGE\ and this could be made possible if the federal
government equity? noticed up to this moment none of the airlines AON at the Federal High Court in Lagos government reviews the ownership shareholding
“What is being called the national carrier is has been able to match the number of commercial against Nigeria Air Limited, Ethiopian of the new airline.
agreements they had within the two to three
THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ‡JANUARY 22 , 2022 17

FINANCE

Cashless Policy as Panacea

for Poverty Alleviation
James Emejo writes that the drive for a cashless society could be the magic wand that will
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one of the greatest chal- all the states of the federation. Nationwide
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thresholds. VHFXULW\GHVWUXFWLRQRIROGQRWHV ZKLFK
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of such interventions. to further sustain these achievements in a SRUDWHIHHLVPRUHWKDQ1 National Financial Inclusion Steering
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 18 THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ‡JANUARY 22 , 2022

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T H I S DAY,, T H E S U N DAY N E W S PA P E R • JANUARY 22, 2023 19

SOFT FINANCE
with AYO AROWOLO
The only column you may need to read on everything personal finance, money, investing -and other life matters
EMAIL: [Link]@[Link] PHONE: 08086447494( SMS ONLY)

2023: Fasten Your Seatbelt; Bumpy Ride Ahead

A
new year is here and it is
like none other. Nigerians In this edition, we asked Tunde Lemo, former Deputy Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria, and
should prepare for a bumpy
ride because the year is loaded Chairman of Titan Bank, to put on his binoculars, take a peep into 2023, and share his thoughts
with landmark events that with us. Please enjoy.
would redefine the course of the country
in significant ways. Apart from being
an election year, a population census is have over 12 percent. The International
also on the cards and the vexing issue of Monetary Fund and other development
petroleum subsidy must be decided one
Elections and population partners have consistently been canvassing
way or the other in 2023. How these issues census are high stake for higher Value Added Tax (VAT) in line
are resolved would determine whether with what obtains elsewhere. I strongly
the country sinks or floats in the next
activities in Nigeria and both plead that the fiscal authorities should not
decade and beyond. had often resulted in political just impose more taxes on those who have
been paying, they should WIDEN the tax
ELECTIONS crises and violence in the net to improve on tax compliance. The
The general elections, slated for next past. The year is therefore former will hurt growth and employment
month, provide another opportunity for and is inflationary since the burden of tax
the electorate to renew the ‘employment’
filled with uncertainties. will be passed to the consumers.
of elected members of the government INEC is doing its best but
at state and federal levels. While some I have not seen enough FATE OF NAIRA
incumbent office holders would be Nigerians should also expect devaluation
presenting themselves for re-election, sensitisation to prepare the as the CBN pushes the official rates closer to
others such as President Muhammadu the parallel market rates to reduce arbitrage
Buhari, would not be on the ballot having
minds of the citizens on the opportunities. This is long overdue to bring
served the maximum term limit prescribed benefits of both activities. order to the forex market and improve
by the constitution liquidity, among other benefits. Food prices
Periodic elections make elected officials may not decline too soon because of the
ACCOUNTABLE to the electorate and if into power. This is a welcome development security pressures in the north and global
the election process is CREDIBLE, OPEN as this has not only drained government’s warming induced floods especially around
and TRANSPARENT, the system benefits in resources, it has prevented the full deregulation the banks of rivers Niger and Benue. The
the long run. If the process can be rigged, of the downstream sector. Ukraine crisis, now almost a year old,
the system loses because elected officials We shall certainly have a bumpy ride in will continue to exacerbate the food and
will simply not bother to perform to the 2023. Nigerians should prepare to sacrifice energy crises globally and we shall be
satisfaction of the electorate. All they will more if they wish to have a solid foundation negatively impacted as about 30 percent
Tunde Lemo for a secured future and prevent a descent of our wheat import is sourced from that
need to do is to steal enough money in
office to buy future elections. There is, into insolvency (I hope it is not too late corridor.
therefore, a positive correlation between very unstable in the past few years and the already). Any candidate that wins the Interest rate is also expected to rise
economic development and the quality gap between the parallel market and official presidential election in February should as the government grapples with loan
of the electoral process. rate is currently about N440, far more than NOT be congratulated! We should simply restructuring and securitises the CBN’s ways
the threshold acceptable internationally, even greet and say: OUR PRAYERS ARE WITH and means advances. The bond announced
CENSUS for managed currencies. Unemployment YOU. MAY GOD TAKE YOU THROUGH by the president will have a coupon rate
Interestingly, no national population rate is 33% while the number of people THIS TRYING PERIOD. of nine percent and will not appeal to
census was conducted in almost 20 living in multidimensional poverty rose Petrol may sell for as high as N500 per the public because it is long tenored - 40
years when the norm is for a population to 133 million in 2022. litre, but this should not scare anyone since years. Investors will definitely demand
census to be conducted at least once in Besides, the new administration will countries with lower per-capita income are for far more than the 2-year government
10 years. Accurate census is considered be inheriting a debt profile of more than already paying far more. Nigerians should bonds which currently trade at around
a major tool for planning and economic N77 trillion, inclusive of about N23 trillion perish the thought that petroleum products 12 percent. In the end, CBN may remain
development. For instance, the USA re- unsecured ways and means advances from will become cheaper with the coming on the SOLE INVESTOR of this SPECIAL
delineates constituencies to redistribute the CBN. Deficit financing is not abating. stream of the DANGOTE REFINERY. It should BOND in the foreseeable future. We do not
the number of representatives in each More than 50 percent of the recently released be noted that the refinery will operate like expect the CBN to depart from the present
constituency, using objective criteria. 2023 Budget is expected to be financed any other refinery and would be paying ‘hawkish’ mode anytime soon to rein in
So, locations like Lagos State and the by local and foreign loans. Meanwhile, international prices for its major inputs, inflation. This will be a major monetary
Federal Capital Territory (FCT) which foreign loans are becoming more difficult including crude oil. Even if the crude oil policy dilemma- the ‘impossible trinity’
have been net beneficiaries of immigrants to negotiate in the light of Ghana’s recent is sold to the refinery in Naira, spare parts of inflation, interest rates and exchange
from other states would by now have default as well as rising interest rates in and additives would have to be purchased rate are all looking north!
more representatives at the National the OECD economies. in hard currency. The government should rein-in
Assembly than other states that reported net On the other hand, resorting to domestic Meanwhile, the advantage of proximity unnecessary expenditure at all levels. The
emigration. The updated population figures borrowing will crowd out the private that will eliminate freight cost will not ORONSAYE REPORT should be urgently
also assist in the provision of infrastructure, sector and raise the borrowing rate of give more than seven percent price gain. implemented by the government. We must
sanitation, social facilities like schools and the government to unsustainable levels. Nigerians must be ready to pay international copy the Anambra State Government by
hospitals in the communities and so on. Nigeria’s foreign loans need to be re- prices for fuel just as they have been paying patronising locally-made vehicles and other
Unnecessary politics and tribal sentiments negotiated ahead of due dates. We must international prices for diesel and jet fuel. products. We must LEAD BY EXAMPLE.
don’t come into play but HARD DATA not contemplate a DEFAULT as this can The increase will only add between two and The new government must also be strong
is needed for planning and development. be fatal going forward. INTERNATIONAL three percent to HEADLINE INFLATION, on prevention of oil theft from its first day
Elections and population census are INVESTORS DO NOT FORGET! given the proportion of fuel in our CPI basket in office. This will help to preserve forex
high stake activities in Nigeria and both and the impact will be ONE OFF. earnings, shore up foreign reserve and by
had often resulted in political crises and FUEL SUBSIDY Petroleum products which were hitherto extension stabilise the value of the naira
violence. The year is therefore filled with The Federal Government must be being smuggled to the neighboring countries as well as reduce environmental pollution
uncertainties. The Independent National commended for not including petroleum can now be officially exported to those in the Niger Delta region. The current
Electoral Commission (INEC) is doing its subsidy in the budget beyond June 2023 countries and this will ease the pressure crude oil production level of 1.2 million
best but I have not seen enough sensitisation because it is no longer realistic to continue to on forex and help in reserve accretion. barrels per day is just about two-thirds
to prepare the minds of the citizens on keep the subsidy, given the fiscal imbalances of our OPEC quota.
the benefits of both activities. Deployment resulting from the subsidy claims. Presidential TAXATION
of technology has assisted a great deal in candidates of the three leading political Taxes must also go up because Nigeria’s SECURITY
making our elections more credible but parties have also indicated their desire to tax-to-GDP ratio of just over 6 percent is The incoming government must work
a major concern remains that of VOTE remove the petroleum subsidy, if voted about the least in Africa. Our comparators hard to improve security of lives and
BUYING. If we can do something about property. A lot has been done to contain
this, we would have significantly improved Boko Haram in the North East, but banditry
the system and, by extension, improved Any candidate that wins the presidential election in February and kidnapping are also serious enough to
VOTERS TURNOUT. should NOT be congratulated! We should simply greet and tackle head-on. The much needed Foreign
Direct Investment can only be attracted
THE ECONOMY say: OUR PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU. MAY GOD TAKE if we improve National Security.
The economic landscape is not very YOU THROUGH THIS TRYING PERIOD No doubt there are bumps ahead, but
impressive. Inflation is still at the high rate God will take us through. We shall end
of 21.34 percent; exchange rate has been the year in praise. GOD BLESS NIGERIA.
 20 THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ‡JANUARY 22 , 2022

INTERVIEW
Saraki: Voting for APC in
2023 is Rewarding Failure
In this interview on ARISE NEWS Channel, a former President of the Senate, Dr. Bukola
Saraki, spoke on the chance of his party, the Peoples Democratic Party to retake power in
next month’s presidential election. The former Kwara State governor took a swipe at the
ruling All Progressives Congress, describing the party as a failure and warning Nigerian
against rewarding it with their votes in the poll. James Emejo brings excerpts:

Saraki

W
hatisAtikuAbuba- ZHZRXOGÀJKWLQVHFXULW\ZHZRXOGLPSURYHWKH number of Nigerians below the poverty line at The question now goes as you’ve all asked – who
kar’s path to vic- economy, would create jobs for the youths – those 133 million; it was not like that. Unemployment next? Some would say oh, do we want to go back to
tory, and what are were the major issues. under PDP was about six per cent to seven per PDP? Let’s talk about that back to PDP- the PDPdays.
his chances and In 2015, if you can remember very clearly, is- cent; today it is 33 per cent; youth unemployment The PDP days as I said, we had insecurity limited
that of PDP? sues of insecurity were limited to the North-east. about 40 per cent. Foreign Direct Investment if we to just one part of the country. In the PDP days we
First, I strongly Since then, till today, we’ve seen insecurity in the are lucky may be just about $2 billion compared are talking about, we had GDP growth of about
believe that the North-west – farmers cannot go to their farms, to $8 billion to $9 billion. six per cent to seven per cent. Now, we are seeing
2023 election is a people are being killed and kidnapped; we’ve seen These are facts we cannot run away from; on the GDP growth of about two per cent, less than the
referendum on the performance of theAPC govern- herdsmen and farmers clash in the North-central economy as well, the exchange rate was N200, the population growth.
ment and the party and I believe that a country and we’ve seen the highest level of oil theft in the R΀FLDOUDWHZDVSUREDEO\1DQGWKHSDUDOOHO In the PDP days, we talked about, we had Foreign
like ours, a very progressive country with a lot of South-south – and we’ve seen kidnapping. So, on PDUNHW1²WRGD\R΀FLDODERXW1DQGWKH Direct Investment into this country – about $8 billion
progressive individuals would never reward failure. the issue of security, they have not performed, they black market N735. It’s never been like this. And – and the largest economy in Africa. These were the
have failed. these are facts. PDP days, the exchange rate was not N700 inching
The question that Nigerians must ask is: Has Let’s take the economy, and again, I will take them When you take all these issues, they have failed to N1,000 at a time, these were the PDP days.
this government and party failed or done well one by one and I would challenge you, because you and as they’ve failed as a political party, we cannot PDP days, the country was more united but now
in the last seven years plus? are all well- knowledgeable on these issues; let’s reward failure. So, I don’t even think that the race it is no more; now, it is normal in democratic settings
And let’s take the indices one by one because I WDNHLQÁDWLRQ²WKHLQÁDWLRQOHYHOWRGD\LVDERXW should be about APC; they’ve had an opportunity that the populace has a choice, especially when you
want to stay on issues and move away from senti- 16 per cent which was never like this in the time to make Nigerians’ lives better but they have not. get tired of a party and you say oh, I want to try
ments. In 2015, their promise to Nigerians was that of PDP in the single digit. You have the highest
THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ‡JANUARY 22 , 2022 21

INTERVIEW
Saraki: Voting for APC in 2023 is Rewarding Failure
another party. But when the party has failed, you ORRNDWWKHHFRQRP\²1WULOOLRQGHEWSURÀOH
come back to those they call the good days and The next president is bound to inherit it and an
WKDWLVZKDW3'3RͿHUVXQGHU$WLNX$EXEDNDU economically weak nation and we have a revenue
When you talk about other parties, with great challenge. What are the plans of the PDP presi-
respect to them, to the individuals, particularly dential candidate to revive the economy, shore up
Peter. But don’t forget again that what we run in revenue base and tackle the debt burden?
Nigeria, we run a presidential system. When you
go to that ballot box on election day, you are voting That’s huge, I mean if you can recollect, when
for the party. Now, a party where from day one, 3'3ZDVRͿLQWKHWRWDOGHEWSURÀOHZDVDERXW
you don’t have candidates in all the parliamentary N10 trillion, today as you rightly said, maybe they
seats; so, already from day one, there’s a recipe will tell you it’s N40 trillion but if you add Ways and
for disaster because you know that the executives Means, it’s about N77 trillion and you’re running at
and legislature are not going to have a majority. about 90 per cent of debt to revenue. That is because
And a lot of people when you ask them what is I remember when I was president of the senate
their concern, they tell you restructuring. These when we had an economic recession. We organised
are things that need constitutional review. These a meeting with the private sector and one of the
are things that need you also to have a majority in things we were driving then was investment, looking
the National Assembly. at assets where we can allow people to invest but
,QYHVWRUVDUHQRORQJHUVDWLVÀHGZLWK([HFXWLYH this government discontinued it and decided to
Orders. They want to see legislations to support go on one line which is borrowing. There was no
investment. So, if as a small party, you don’t have opportunity given to people to come and invest. So,
a spread; we’ve seen our experience in 2015 – let’s the only opportunity if you don’t have the revenue
move away from internship to reality and practicality. was to borrow. Under Atiku Abubakar who has
The practicality – why APC has failed is because always said he would be private sector-driven,
APC really was a special vehicle party to win elec- you would see investments coming in because
tions, not a party that was built with cohesion. And there are lots of people that still want to invest in
so, a small party that does not have the spread across this country. But the language and attitude of the
the country, even if it has a president and doesn’t APC government has not encouraged them. So,
have parliament from day one, we are not going three things are key; one, oil theft needs to be dealt
to see what Nigerians what to see. The laws that with precisely and that’s why we’ve lost a great
would change the country, the laws that would opportunity – oil-producing countries during this
PDNHWKHFRXQWU\PRYHH΀FLHQWO\ Russia-Ukraine war have had a great time; look
Now, that takes me back to Atiku Abubakar. DW$QJRODWKH\·YHEHQHÀWWHGIURPWKLVLWLVQRW
In Atiku Abubakar, you have a candidate that is acceptable and despite this, we are still having oil
ready from day one to run, and you’ll say what theft. That would stop and the corruption there
do I mean by that- the experience he has is even would stop.
at a federal level not sub-national. All the other On the issue of foreign exchange, he has also said
candidates, with due respect to them, have been multiple rates would stop and that would encourage
at best governors at the sub-national level. I have investments and people coming in. There are people
been a governor as well; but I will tell you from my who want to bring currency into the country but
experience as governor for eight years, and my they are not going to come in when they know
experience as president of the senate, presiding WKHR΀FLDOUDWHLVQRWUHDOLVWLF6R\RXDUHWU\LQJWR
RYHU1LJHULDQVIURPGLͿHUHQWSDUWVRIWKHFRXQWU\ ensure that funds come in so there would be more
GLͿHUHQWODQJXDJHVDGLͿHUHQWUHOLJLRQDQGGLͿHUHQW Saraki money available. Thirdly, if you have the private
culture. That experience, you don’t gain it at the sector leading infrastructure development, some
sub-national because you’re a governor because if is for what, to be able to drive these changes. So, opportunity to be given a chance to repair. He says RIWKHSULYDWHVHFWRUVFDQWDNHLWRͿ\RXUKDQGDQG
you’re a governor, it is not multi-ethnicity. what you’re promising as a presidential candidate ¶,ZLOOFRQWLQXHZKHUH%XKDULKDVOHIWRͿ·WKDW·V these are ways you can create jobs and then you
– oh, when I get there, I will make sure states have what he is saying to Nigerians. But I am saying start reducing your level of borrowing, and the
Do you think PDP has done enough; if elec- powers, I will make sure that this happens – it can that with what Nigerians have been through, the only way to do that as I said where some of those
tions were to happen today, where do you think only happen when you have the support. And so, pains, the hardship, it is not the time to go through SURMHFWVFDQEHJLQWRORRNIRURWKHUVRXUFHVRIÀQDQFH
the party and candidate are so strong to get the that’s the point I am making there. that; Nigerians are looking for a better time; they which is equity, investment of the private sector.
results required? Going back to the other question; as you can see, are looking for a much fruitful future and so, it is 7KHUHDOLW\LVWKDWXQWLO\RXEXLOGFRQÀGHQFHLQWKH
The PDPagain as a party and with the candidature and you all know the history, I parted ways. I’ve a choice they have to make. What I am saying is private sector to invest in this country, this pathway
we have with Atiku Abubakar, we will easily get said I was one of those that came and sold APC to that as Nigerians, we should still ask ourselves that which they are going, which is reckless – I mean
our 25 per cent constitutional requirements across Nigerians but I realised very early on that we are this party has failed, and the candidate is saying \RXKDYHDEXGJHWGHÀFLWQRZZKLFKLVSHU
the country. not going to deliver on the promises made and I will improve on the failure, I will make it better cent. The Fiscal Responsibility Act that exists now, I
If you do any polling, or any discussions, you’ll this was not what we promised Nigerians. We’d but there are other options for Nigerians. The other am sure a lot of you don’t know; I remember I was
ÀQGRXWWKDWZHDUHHLWKHUFRPLQJÀUVWRUZHDUH promised Nigerians as I said, that we would bring option for Nigerians is to go to that party that in their SA Budget when I went to meet Vice-President
coming second in most of the states; South-south HPSOR\PHQWZHZRXOGÀJKWLQVHFXULW\DQGZH time, the economy was much better, the country Atiku Abubakar and I said I saw this law in Brazil
has always been a strong PDP area, and we will do would ensure we create enabling environment for was more secure and we should go back to that. WRGRÀVFDOUHVSRQVLELOLW\DQGKHVDLGEULQJLWWR
very well in South-south. South-east - the challenge investments – and these are not happening. And me and he moved for that law to be passed. And
we have over there, of course, is Labour Party but as such, there was no way my conscience would As a Nigerian, do you think it will be fair in that law said you must not go above 2 per cent
we would still do well and take our 25 per cent. continue to stay at that party. I have said it many terms of equity to have another Hausa-Fulani as WRSHUFHQWRIÀVFDOUHYHQXHWKLVJRYHUQPHQW
We would do well in North-central, we will do times, even those who are in that party cannot tell the next president of Nigeria? LVUXQQLQJSHUFHQW²WKDWZRXOGQRWKDSSHQ
well in North-west and North-east – you need four Nigerians that they have performed because the I think it will be fair. The issues are that what under Atiku Abubakar. He’ll bring down the level
zones and by the time you have four zones, you indices are there. is fair is a better Nigeria. Now, if you look at the of borrowing and so, there would be some level of
will win the election. So, the four zones that we Of any of those things that I have said this morn- number of years when power has been between the discipline. Now, if you also remember, under the
would win – we will win North-west, we would ing if anyone can fault them – but for as long as North and South between since 1999, particularly PDP government that there was a lot of engagement
win North-east, we would win South-south and we you cannot fault any of those things I have said, under this present republic, there hasn’t been that with the private sector; I remover I was a young
would win North-central – those are the four zones that party has failed. And if it has failed, are we PXFKGLͿHUHQFHLWLVDGLͿHUHQFHRIIRXU\HDUVWKDW·V SA at that time – every Saturday, the president and
and we would take our 25 per cent in more than going to reward failure? I don’t think, in our lives, still on to the north to balance. So, there’s no large the vice president, because he was chairman of the
24 states; here’s no doubt in my mind about that. we don’t reward failures, in our homes, we don’t discrimination on one side. But what is fair now in economic council, he used to meet with leaders
UHZDUGIDLOXUHLQRXUR΀FHVZHGRQ·WUHZDUG my view – I sit down and I talk to Nigerians – it is a RIGLͿHUHQWVHFWRUVDQGEXVLQHVVFRPPXQLW\WKDW
You talked about the failure of the APC govern- failure – they have failed. better life. Atiku Abubakar will provide that better would come and tell them what were the issues
ment on security, and economy. Why you believed The same way in 2015 when Nigerians taught life. Unfortunately, the reason why we got to where WKH\KDGWKDWZDVDͿHFWLQJEXVLQHVV$QGWKH\ZLOO
that the PDP coming into power would make a PDP had failed, they voted for another party. we are; where ethnicity and religion have become address them with technocrats. This is the kind of
GL;HUHQFH"<RXZHUHHOHFWHGRQWKHSODWIRUPRI So, I am saying that no matter the propaganda, so paramount is again part of the failure of APC. government that you are going to have with Atiku
the APC in 2015 when you were as senate presi- we must go back to content. Have they performed? Atiku Abubakar does not belong to that. Here is a Abubakar – hands-on, private sector driven that will
dent. Was that one of the reasons you left APC If they have failed, then the agenda or discussion man who if you look at his career, he’s lived in the EULQJFRQÀGHQFHIRULQYHVWPHQW/RRN$IULFDLVVWLOO
because of their ideology and how they handled we should be holding for the next four weeks is North, he’s lived in the South, he’s surrounded by the continent for investment, we are lucky about
the economy and security situation? where do we go as Nigerians? Do we go to any people from across the country – his focus would be that and so, if we get the message right – the body
Yes, you can come in with the news but it has to be RIWKHVHVPDOOSDUWLHVWKDWDUHRͿHULQJDGUHDPRU pan-Nigerian and he’s been like that. And another language if this government does not encourage
comprehensive. In France, when Macron came in, their own vision or do we go to safe hands? I am issue against other candidates who have played any private sector person bringing in money and
he was not part of the structure; but the movement saying that Atiku Abubakar is a safe hand today regional politics mostly, he’s always put Nigeria so the government has to fund everything but im-
there was not just on the executive, the people voted and because of the precarious position this country ÀUVW6RZKDWLVIDLULVZLOOZHJHWDEHWWHU1LJHULD" mediately you create that, the government would
for even parliamentary candidates of that party. I LVLQZHFDQQRWDͿRUGDQH[SHULPHQWLQ I think we would get a better Nigeria with Atiku have to fund less, your foreign reserves would pick
am not saying there is anything wrong with that; because he would be transparent, and he would up, you would borrow less and also your revenues
what I am saying from what you’ve seen – the There are conversations that politicians have not have a lopsided appointment; what has raised would go up. He has also said the issue of fuel
party itself started in April/May - these kinds of the penchant for jumping ships when they think issues like this that people like you ask ‘is it fair?’ subsidy is something that we have to let go of so
movements should have started earlier where it’s things are not going right but that’s what they It is because of what we’ve seen the APC party your revenues will pick up.
not just the president – that’s the point I am mak- should be doing as it is done in other climes – stay do in appointments; you do appointments with
ing – that it must also be the House of Assembly, within the boat and try and create the change. A disregard to certain parts of the country; you take And you were part of the people that left the
National Assembly, where a party from day one, typical example that was given is that Tinubu – that certain actions as if certain parts of the country PDP government and moved to APC; you said the
GRHVQRWKDYHFDQGLGDWHVÀOLQJDOOWKHSRVLWLRQVLQ in spite of whatever might have been the errors of do not matter – that is what has aggravated why government was better and then you left, isn’t it?
the National Assembly, it’s already a problem and the current Buhari administration, he stayed there Nigerians feel like this. But more important than Yes, I did. Sometimes in life, you do take decisions,
that’s the point I am making. I am not saying, I am and contested so as to change whatever had gone that is who would make Nigeria better? Who will and it was done out of the interest of this country.
not talking of structure in that sense. So, from day wrong. Why wouldn’t you stay with APC and unite this country? Who has friends across this But, one was also bold and manly enough to say we
one, and based on my experience, and I am sure be part of the change within that would ensure country irrespective of tribe and religion? Because made a mistake, this cannot take us there because
you’ve seen it – it means that government would that APC performs and delivers on its promise? his antecedents have shown that. the promises and expectations were not there.
QRWEHIXQFWLRQDOEHFDXVHGHÀQLWHO\LWZRXOGQRW I am not saying they shouldn’t. The point is
Read full article online - [Link]
have that support to be able to drive, because all this that the party has failed. Yes, he is asking for an Let’s talk about making Nigeria better…let’s
T H I S D AY MONDAYSunday
MARCH 22 14, OPI NION
20222023
January,
Vol 27. No 10148
122

[Link] opinion@[Link]

ALONG PATHS OF
FRIENDSHIP AND
DEMOCRACY Atiku is Nigeria’s most preferred
EMMANUELLE
BLATMANN and Presidential candidate, reckons
ANNETT GÜNTHER TUNDE OLUSUNLE
celebrate 60 years of
the Elysée-Treaty
ATIKU, EL-RUFAI, UDENTA AND THE
VINDICATION OF ‘ESU ODARA’
S
cholars are divided over what the most Phantom figures have been concocted in
appropriate description and perception of relation to the manner of giveaways Atiku
*Esu* in Yoruba cosmology should be. The made of some highly prized national assets,
more widely held notion about *Esu,* is to make under his watch as Chairman of the National
it the lexical parallel of Satan or the devil, in the Council for Privatisation, (NCP). The Ajaokuta
English language. *Esu* within this context, Steel Complex in Kogi State; the National
See Page 23 connotes evil and devilry in all its ramifications. Aluminium Smelting Plant, Ikot-Abasi and the
He is the purveyor and conveyor of wickedness, Nigeria Newsprint Manufacturing Company,
mischief, anguish, grief, even negativity in Oku-Iboku, both located in Akwa Ibom State,
DANGOTE totality. *Esu* in popular perception, is mean-
spirited, malevolent, devious, vile. The list
among others, were allegedly auctioned to
Atiku’s imaginary associates, going by the

REFINERY AND
goes on. This dimension to the *Esu* persona, thread of these conjectures. Yet, government’s
considered as a “most controversial mixup” legally constituted agency entrusted with the
by some scholars, has been ascribed to his responsibility of disposal of the assets was the
THE NIGERIAN portrayal by Ajayi Crowther, the iconic linguist
and Emeritus pioneer African Bishop of the
Bureau for Public Enterprises, (BPE). Nasir El-
Rufai, outgoing governor of Kaduna State, was
ECONOMY Anglican Church. Crowther translated the
Bible into Yoruba and also translated Yoruba
the Director-General and Chief Executive.
Every electoral cycle, so long as Atiku is
KANYA into English. It has been posited that Crowther,
in the dictionary, translated Satan as *Esu.*
on the ballot, these tales are recycled and fed
into our ears. Yet Atiku has serially submitted
WILLIAMS writes Unfortunately, as Christianity and Islam
replaced African Traditional Religion, (ATR), the expectations. Every candidate comes with some
himself to public inquisition to authenticate the
veracity of the unfounded aspersions regularly
the refinery will reference to *Esu* as Satan, gained ascendancy,
following Crowther’s precedence.
bag, not just of expectations, but talent, assets and
skill sets... Atiku Abubakar has been devoted
cast on him. Till date, none, out of the Code of
Conduct Bureau, (CCB), the Economic and
reduce pressure on Yoruba mythology, however, admits
*Esu* as one of the *Orishas,* mediums and
to this quest for long. And for somebody to be
devoted in his lifetime, almost the entirety of his
Financial Crimes Commission, (EFFC), or the
Independent Corrupt Practices Commission,
foreign exchange intermediaries between man and *Eledumare,*
God in the Yoruba pantheon. Affiliate *Orishas*
adulthood in pursuit of a dream, means there is
something deep in his heart that he wants to give
(ICPC), have invited Atiku for a chat since he lost
his immunity 17 years ago! Atiku has always
demand in include *Ogun,* *Sango,* *Obatala,* *Esu,*
*Osun,* among several others. But even this
the country. He gave part of it as vice president
for eight years, effectively for four years because
desired to be clinically examined. He is in “a
townhall, different from” the *balablu blublu
avoidable cost of classification confers some ambivalence on the
essential constitution and endeavours of the
the second term was very turbulent with his bulaba* of his major challenger Bola Ahmed
Tinubu, of the All Progressives Congress, (APC),
boss.”
imports archetypal *Esu.* He is said to be a benevolent Udenta is not emotional about the originating on this score. Tinubu, reportedly, has held his
spirit who serves *Ifa,* the oracle who divines address of Nigeria’s next president. He is affluent state in his pocket and his vice grip into
the future. He takes sacrifices through him to objective enough to speak from his own its 24th consecutive year! He is the ultimate, a
*Eledumare,* and brings his commands to dispassionate interrogation of the country’s godlike figure, the chess-master who determines
men. He acts under his orders and punishes sociopolitical situation. He continues therefore if his constituents breathe or not.
the wicked on his Principal’s behalf. *Esu,* by submitting as follows: “Atiku’s undying He actually wants to sneak into Aso Villa
however, is a multivalent medium, dreaded in passion to lead Nigeria, actually means he without facing the minimum request and
his own right, for the vengeful mischief he can has the staying power, in terms of persistence, expectation of Nigerians, for his participation in
perpetrate. In this capacity, he is *Esu Odara* or which is very key to unlock the potential of a question and answer engagement. As I type
*Esu Elegbara,* the unsparing evildoer. the nation. And being a vice president for the this, the social media is abuzz with a picture of
It is necessary to lay this foundation against first term when the country was practically Tinubu sleeping and snoring away, at a meeting
the backdrop of the quantum disinformation, cut adrift from the international community, to of party leaders and presidential candidates,
See Page 23 misrepresentation, fables, falsehoods serially restore the country back to the comity of nations with the National Peace Committee, (NPC),
perpetrated against Atiku Abubakar, Nigeria’s with a sense of mission and purpose, I think he in Abuja. Abdullahi Adamu, Chairman of
First Vice President, in the subsisting Fourth did very well. Whether as informal leader of Tinubu’s APC, participated on his behalf.
EDITORIAL Republic. Atiku has been repeatedly profiled
for unsubstantiated malfeasance, unsustainable
the economic team or someone the president
relied on so much to drive the government’s
In an old short video clip dated August 11,
2011, which is making the rounds, El Rufai
*grabbism,* primitive acquisition, vandalistic economic agenda, he seems to be best suited for dismisses reports and allegations of Atiku’s
ABIA STATE: DOCTORS comsumptiveness, and similar labels. Atiku
is the hardworking, high-flying presidential
the moment, in terms of who has the adequacy
of experience and exposure and the network to
interference or complicity in any form, with
the privatisation exercise. According to him:
WITHOUT WAGES flagbearer of the major opposition political party,
the Peoples’ Democratic Party, (PDP), who
get things done.”
The unfortunate narrative out there in the
“I swear to God, I am under oath, except for
one time the vice president called me and said:
is staking a formidable, full-chested claim to public sphere about Atiku, however, is of *Look, I’ve got calls from A and B requesting
succeed the incumbent, Muhammadu Buhari. one whose hands are soiled in the lucre of we help this guy win this.* And I said: “Mr Vice
This is Atiku’s fifth shot at the presidency and state assets and resources, appropriated to President, you know the rules. Tell the guy to
one in which he is very highly favoured to win self and cronies, while he was in office. These bid the highest price, because the highest price
deservedly. It has indeed been advanced that he fabrications preclude the fact that Atiku, by wins. And he said *I know, in case they contact
won the 2019 election, by independent forensic his responsibilities as vice president, as spelt- you, I don’t want them to say I didn’t pass on
accounts. out in the 1999 Constitution of the Federal their message.* That was the only time. Nobody
The respected public engager, scholar and Republic, was actually and practically, severely tried to interfere with my work.” This is very
professor Udenta Udenta, indeed advanced constrained. The office and position, is an germane to our thesis in this piece, about the
in a recent television interview, that Atiku ticks appendage to a president, and a strong one eventual vindication of the much maligned *Esu
all the boxes in terms of his several attributes, at that in Olusegun Obasanjo, on whose desk Odara.*
competencies and capacities for the nation’s top the buck stopped. Convoluted street talk in
job. His words: “The most suitable President places, is of a man who desires the presidency
Nigeria needs now is someone with a sense of as a personal laurel for the prosecution of OLUSUNLE, PhD, poet, journalist, scholar and
urgency, who is ready in terms of preparation, an agenda for self-enrichment and personal author, is Special Adviser, Media and Publicity to
See Page 50 someone who is fully aware of national aggrandisement. PDPpresidential candidate Atiku Abubakar
T H I S D AY SUNDAY JANUARY 22, 2023 23

ALONG PATHS OF FRIENDSHIP

KANYA WILLIAMS writes
AND DEMOCRACY the refinery will reduce pressure
Emmanuelle Blatmann and on foreign exchange demand in
avoidable cost of imports
Annett Günther celebrate 60 years
of the Elysée-Treaty DANGOTE REFINERY AND
THE NIGERIAN ECONOMY
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0UV &DWKHULQH &RORQQD )UHQFK EMMANUELLE BLATMANN is the LVLWV1HOVRQ&RPSOH[LW\,QGH[ 1&, 7KH
0LQLVWHU IRU (XURSH DQG )RUHLJQ )UHQFK$PEDVVDGRUWR1LJHULDZKLOH$QQHWW 1&, PHDVXUHV WKH VRSKLVWLFDWLRQ DQG
*QWKHULVWKH*HUPDQ$PEDVVDGRUWR FDSDELOLWLHVRIDQRLOUHÀQHU\WRSURGXFHD DR. WILLIAMS writes from the United
$IIDLUV YDULHW\RIFKRLFHSHWUROHXPSURGXFWVIURP
+HUH LQ 1LJHULD )UDQFH DQG 1LJHULD Kingdom
24 SUNDAY JANUARY 22, 2023 • T H I S D AY SUNDAY JANUARY 22, 2023 • T H I S D AY 49
50
T H I S D AY SUNDAY JANUARY 22, 2023

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA

Email [Link]@[Link] EDITORIAL
ABIA STATE: DOCTORS WITHOUT WAGES
The Abia State authorities should hurry up and clear the mess

A
tragic misfortune has struck the Abia disturbing lack of sensitivity on the part of the
State public healthcare system. Last state government. But as it turns out, serial default
week, throngs of medical doctors in doctors’ salary payments is only a small part of
marched to the Governor’s Lodge in the general dysfunction in the Abia State public
Umuahia to protest over upwards healthcare system. Widespread dire and perennial
of 25 months of unpaid salaries and scarcity of drugs and other essential supplies in the
allowances. The doctors have threatened that if their entire healthcare system of the state has become
demands are not quickly met, they will return to axiomatic. Many of the institutions are dilapidated
Government House with corpses of their members and unmaintained.
now dying in large numbers because of avoidable The hope for life in situations of ill health is
hardship and poverty. That matters should come HPERGLHG LQ VDWLVÀHG GRFWRUV DQG RWKHU KHDOWK
to this extreme indicates the level of frustration in professionals when they are up and about their
the state healthcare system. The sight of numerous EXVLQHVV 7KH FRQÀGHQFH LQ WKHLU FDUULDJH WKH
doctors on a picket line over months of unpaid bounce in their steps and the overall contentment on
wages can demoralise their faces can sometimes
the populace even in
the best of places. Worse When those hired to support life become themselves UHVWRUHKRSHWRWKHDIÁLFWHG
DQG LQÀUP (YHQ ZKHQ
still, when the barricade the inevitability of death
of doctors moves to harbingers of death and embodiments of frustration, stares us in the face, the
the entrance gate of a UHDVVXUDQFHV RI FRQÀGHQW
governor’s lodge, it is life becomes precarious for the ordinary citizen whose doctors or smiling nurses
a signal that desperate can become the last signals
times
arrived.
have indeed confidence in government withers that hope is possible, and
that life can be saved.
Unfortunately, the It is a different matter
health sector is not alone in the serial neglect of when doctors as ultimate care givers in a hospital
the state government. Both Abia State Polytechnic system are hungry, deprived and are going for
at Aba and the Abia State University at Okigwe months on end with neither salaries nor allowances.
are in a similar situation. This is not to talk of the When those hired to support life become themselves
unspeakable plight of teachers in public primary harbingers of death and embodiments of frustration,
and secondary schools as well as local government life becomes precarious for the ordinary citizen
employees whose federal funds are reportedly ZKRVHFRQÀGHQFHLQJRYHUQPHQWZLWKHUV%HVLGHV
hijacked by the state administration. The story is the hope in the prospect of surviving ill health
same with pensioners. Many have since died after diminishes when core health professionals become
waiting endlessly for their pensions and gratuities. objects of pity, embodiments of want and images of
Unfortunately, what is happening in Abia is a death foretold.
symptomatic of the situation in most of the 36 states On this matter alone, the social contract which
in Nigeria where public institutions have practically binds government, and the people can well be said
been run down. We are only zeroing in on the state to have collapsed in Abia State as it has in a few of
because of the critical nature of the sector involved in our badly run states. The possibility that the current
this tragic drama. In a state public healthcare system, state administration can meaningfully tackle the
doctors and other critical care givers are the arbiters looming disaster is worsened by the proximity of
between the life and death of the populace on behalf its exit. Yet, the responsibility of government does
of the political leadership. To ignore the livelihood of not expire because an administration is on its way
doctors is to erode the basic compassion of the state out. Government obligations to the citizenry are
and its managers. SHUSHWXDODQGLQÀQLWH7KLVLVWKHERXQGLQJUHDVRQ
The plight of medical doctors which is in the why a responsible effort should be made to end the
present spotlight remains tragic. The 25-month embarrassment of the unpaid salaries of doctors in
default in the payment of salaries indicates a Abia State public healthcare system.
Letters to the Editor
Letters in response to specific publications in THISDAY should be brief(150-200 words) and straight to the point. Interested readers may send such
letters along with their contact details to opinion@[Link]. We also welcome comments and opinions on topical local, national and inter-
national issues provided they are well-written and should also not be longer than (950- 1000 words). They should be sent to opinion@thisdaylive.
com along with the email address and phone numbers of the writer

LETTERS
2023:WHO DOES THE CAP FIT?
It is just about a month to Nigeria’s with directly providing security for the took only a couple of months for even the of Jada make for a wonderful story. A
biggest moment. elections or not, the ability of the Nigerian most ardent advocate of change to realize veteran political combatant and former
A nation holds its breath as it counts days military to quell the storms building that Nigeria had sold a hyena only to buy a vice president, Nigerians worry about
to epic elections which will go a long way elsewhere will be key. hippopotamus. his seeming wanderlust and the undying
in determining whether it moves forward Since President Muhammadu Buhari A number of presidential candidates whispers that wed him to corruption. In
or backwards in its journey of nationhood. DVVXPHG RIÀFH LQ  WKH VWRUPV KDYH currently parade themselves before Peter Obi, many young Nigerians see
That it has been quite the journey would built up from year to year, each destructively Nigerians, each laying claim to the the Nigerian president they have always
be a massive understatement. There have more devastating than the last. FRXQWU\·VKLJKHVWRIÀFH%XWZKRGRHVWKH wished and even prayed for. Visionary,
been many occasions on which it looked like Before the man hailed as just what the FDS ÀW LI DQ\" 7KDW %ROD $KPHG 7LQXEX visceral and vivacious, the former Anambra
that journey would come to a shuddering GRFWRURUGHUHGIRU1LJHULDLQFDPHRQ the candidate of the All Progressives *RYHUQRU·V ÀJKWLQJ WDON DERXW 1LJHULD·V
halt. ERDUG1LJHULDQVKDGVXIÀFLHQWO\VWHZHGLQ Congress, is frequently mentioned in the problem is promising.
That the journey has proceeded bad leadership and were exhausted at last. VDPHEUHDWKZLWKGUXJUXQQLQJÀOOVTXLWHD Yet, many cite the relative obscurity of
VRPHZKDW GHÀDQWO\ LV WHVWDPHQW WR WKH When a basket of rotten eggs was slapped large number of Nigerians with trepidation. the Labour Party and Nigeria’s historic
resilience of the country - an extraordinary on the face of the Peoples Democratic Party +LVIDLOLQJKHDOWKDQGÁDLOLQJZRUGVKDYH voting patterns to predict that it would take
UHVLOLHQFHWKDWKDVGHÀHGHYHQWKHFDSULFHV LQWKHIRUPRIDKLVWRULFGHIHDWDIWHU\HDUV many worried by the prospect of him a miracle for the man who has stolen even
of military rule. in power, Nigerians breathed a sigh of relief. cashing in on his bright chances at the many hearts to win. Whoever Nigerians
The Nigerian military may have no direct The hope around the country then was polls to become Nigeria’s next President. settle for, there can be no mistake. The folly of
role to play in the upcoming elections. that with the breath of fresh air expected to For Atiku Abubakar, the Wazirin the past cannot be reprised. Bad politicians
In fact, the provision of security for the come with power changing hands, a new Adamawa, who is having a sixth shot must be denied access to Nigeria’s highest
elections should be left for sister security lease of life beckoned on the country. Those DWWKHFRXQWU\·VKLJKHVWRIÀFHDGLIÀFXOW RIÀFH
agencies. However, whether it is charged hopes were desperately short-lived for it childhood tending cattle in the bushes
Kene Obiezu, @kenobiezu
SUNDAY JANUARY 22, 2023 • T H I S D AY 51
52 T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R
˾
JANUARY 22, 2023

GLITZ FOCUS

BBTitans: Nigeria, South Africa Reality TV Gods Meet

Nothing less than earthshaking occurrences are expected at a meeting of the most brilliant and the strongest reality television
stars from Africa’s two giant countries; Nigeria and South Africa. With an ultimate prize of $100,000, Vanessa Obioha
writes that viewers would stay glued to their television sets in anticipation of exciting moments for the 72 days

Yvonne Yemi Cregx Yaya Tsatsii Thabang Lukay

Olivia Jenni O Nelisa Nana Mmeli Marvin

Khosi Kanaga Jnr Justin Blaqboi bubu. Juicy Jay Jaypee Ipeleng

W
hat happens when 20 call her a bookworm but add to that list a fun It is no wonder that Blaqboi is a storyteller, Nigerian men in Biggie’s house. The model
titans are living under and loving journalist and a lover of everything having hailed from one of the states in and a chemical engineer is hoping he will find
one roof? An explosion Nigeria. It is no wonder that she is dating a Nigeria, Plateau which used to be the hub a girl in the house to take to Mama. Wedding
of entertainment and Nigerian man and already has a romantic of filmmaking. bells!
intense drama! Those were relationship building up with one of the Nigerian The 26-year-old aspiring filmmaker
the words of the CEO housemates, Yemi Cregx. Besides loving Naija finds it hard to express his feelings. The Happy-go-lucky Photographer Justin
of MultiChoice Nigeria, men, Khosi is looking forward to cooking However, his joy at flying out of Nigeria (South Africa)
John Ugbe during the Nigerian food. Jollof rice anyone? for the first time could not be concealed Justin is 21 and hails from East London.
announcement of the new Big Brother Titans at the launch show. Hopefully, he’d get a Justin, whom many have likened his looks to
last year. The Fashion Influencer Yemi Cregx (Nigeria) good adventure at the Big Brother Titans WWE superstar Bray Wyatt, is happy to be in
On Sunday, January 15, when the carpet Thirty-year-old Yemi Cregx from Ekiti State house, and perhaps, eventually learn how the reality show for a good reason: his likes are
rolled out and the new Big Brother titans, an is personable. The business strategist seems to to cook. hardly seen on television. He described himself
interesting and diverse mix of individuals have what it takes to make women melt in his as a quiet person as long as the bottle is not
from South Africa and Nigeria, came on stage arms. Or how else could he have gotten Khosi The Cerebral Bioengineer Tsatsii reachable. He is also a family guy who once
in their remarkable outfits and facial art, it singing ballads in his arms? The model and (South Africa) paid off his family’s debt.
became apparent that the inevitable clash of actor is highly competitive, and this may come At age 24, Tsatsii, an aspiring Bio-
the titans would be unfolding on TV for 72 off as snobbish but you know what they say engineer, has set her academic goals. She The Hype King Kanaga Jnr (Nigeria)
days. Even the hosts Ebuka Obi-Uchendu about good-looking men, they always wear their is studying two degrees simultaneously: Kanaga Jnr needs no introduction. He took
and Lawrence Maleka could not hide their hearts on their sleeves. The fashion Influencer is electrical engineering and medical sciences over the stage with his infectious personality,
amazement. interested in learning more about South Africans. (microbiology, biotechnology). A sight for dancing and emceeing as if he was already in
Amapiano versus Afrobeats? Zulu sore eyes, Tsatsii is equally curious about the spotlight. His boyish charm is his talisman
dance versus leg work? A Naija and Mzansi The Charismatic Rugby Player Juicy Jay life and what better place to start than in and he is unabashed to unleash it on older
wedding? The coming days are filled with (South Africa) Big Brother’s House. women. Athletic and candid, the 23-year-old
surprises as expected from the Big Brother Whether you call him Siya or Juicy Jay, it actor and model is in the game for fun and
show. does not detract from his cool disposition. The The Hustler Nana (Nigeria) fame.
The reality TV show is the most popular 24-year- old semi-pro rugby player from Eastern Life may have thrown a lot of lemons
on the continent with Big Brother Naija taking Cape in South Africa, got the looks and is not at Nana, a 22-year-old entrepreneur from The Afro-centric Lukay (South Africa)
the lead. But before the birth of BBNaija, as shy about it. Only a confident person will remain Kaduna State but she is bent on making Lukay raised a few eyebrows when he
it is popularly known, there was Big Brother shocked each time he looks at himself in the lemonades out of them. Having dropped decided to dress as Zamunda king. He is
Africa which brought different personalities mirror. Juicy Jay is your go-to gist partner and if out of school due to a lack of financial reserved and described himself as brutally
from different parts of Africa to participate in you want to live life on the edge, call him. He is aid, the young girl went into business. honest. A sales executive, Lukay moved to
the show. Although rested for a while, the Big interested in learning Nigerian culture, especially Although soft-spoken, Nana is not timid. KwaZulu-Natal to re-establish a relationship
Brother Titans are expected to bring back the our food. With the Nigerian female housemates She’s simply in the game to win the prize with his parents.
fun elements, cultural display and drama of in the house dominating the kitchen, Juicy Jay and help her family from impecuniosity.
the two giants of Africa, Nigeria and South will have no trouble picking up our unique The Jovial Actor and Model Ebubu
Africa. Themed Ziyakhala Wahala, a high delicacies. He just needs to have an eclectic
dosage of drama is expected. Keeping up with palate. The Introvert Lawyer Ipeleng (South (Nigeria)
its tradition of choosing a distinctive array Africa) From the moment he came on stage,
of individuals with appealing and shocking The Glam Girl Olivia (Nigeria) Ipeleng originally hails from the Ebubu, the 28-year-old albino actor and model
personality traits, the organisers threw Twenty-three-year-old Olivia from Anambra North West, now in the Gauteng province, from Anambra State delighted fans with his
their net wide to capture an inclusive set of State just wants to have fun. The aspiring actress South Africa. She is a law student and antics. Ecstatic to be in the house, the creative
housemates. There is the nurse, an albino, a and influencer got a wild side that viewers may aspiring content creator. Nicknamed an enthusiast promises to entertain viewers. His
model, a rugby player, a sales executive, and a not want to miss. Of course, her eyes are also set amazon because of her height and inclusion was lauded by viewers as he is the
host of others in the battle for $100,000. on the grand prize. curves, Ipeleng is good-humoured first albino to participate in the reality TV show.
Below are the brilliant and entertaining and an introvert. Her interests lie
housemates who will be captivating viewers The Cool Model Mmeli (South Africa) in philosophy, and like her fellow The Dynamite Nelisa (South Africa)
across Africa. At first glance, Mmeli suggests a level- citizens, cannot wait to visit Nigeria. Nelisa is pretty and confident. The 25-year-
headed model but do not be misled. He is street- She is 25. old described herself as the main character in
smart and has a naughty side. His competitive the Big Brother Titans house and loves dark and
The Journalist/Academician Khosi (South handsome men. She may not be a towering titan
Africa) spirit was seen last week when he emerged The Chemical Engineer Marvin
the winner of the Head of House (HoH) task but is definitely a dynamite given her lively and
The 25-year-old Khosi from KwaZulu- (Nigeria) spunky character.
Natal described herself as a very educated and gained immunity. The 25-year-old content Arguably, 29-year-old Marvin fits
woman. To prove her penchant for academics, creator and model from Hillbrow, Johannesburg the description of a titan. With his
can’t wait to visit Nigeria. eye-popping physique and looks, Read full article online - [Link]
she revealed that she already has two degrees
and is working on her masters. You may The Aspiring Filmmaker Blaqboi (Nigeria) Marvin is topping the list of handsome
T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R
˾
JANUARY 22, 2023 53

GLITZ ENTERTAINMENT

The Academy to Reveal 2023 Oscar Nominees Tuesday

Stories by Vanessa Obioha
The race for Oscar’s Best Picture will officially begin
on Tuesday, January 24, when the Academy of Motion
Picture, Arts and Sciences unveils nominees for the 95th
ceremony. ‘The Banshees of Inisherin’ which won the
Golden Globe Award for Best Motion Picture, Musical or
Comedy is one of the faves expected to make the expanded
Big Picture category. Other notable predictions for the Best
Picture include Steven Spielberg’s ‘The Fabelmans’, James
Cameron’s ‘Avatar: The Way of Water ‘, Tom Cruise’s ‘Top
Gun: Maverick’ and ‘Everything Everywhere All at Once’.
Viola Davis, Cate Blanchett, and Michelle Yeah are
among the names predicted for a nod in the Best Actress
category, while Colin Farrell, Tom Hanks and Brenda
Fraser may be nominated for Best Actor.
Last year’s ceremony saw female director Jane
Campion take the Academy Award for Best Director. It is
unlikely that the award will go to a woman again this year
as the category may boast more male contenders.
Academy Award winner Riz Ahmed, and actress
Allison Williams will announce the Oscar nominations.
The 95th Academy Awards is scheduled for March 12 and
will be hosted by TV host Jimmy Kimmel. Riz Ahmed & Allison Williams to unveil Oscar nominees

Nigerian Idol
Netflix Drops One Film a Week Plan Returns for
include ‘Chupa’, ‘Extraction 2’, ‘Heart of Stone’, ‘Pain Hustlers’, ‘Leo’, ‘Murder
Mystery 2’, and a host of others.
Netflix also disclosed that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex documentary
Eighth Season
‘Harry & Meghan’ is its second most successful documentary series ever, while
‘Stranger Things 4’ and ‘Wednesday’ recorded one billion hours of views. Also MultiChoice Nigeria recently announced
on the Top 10 Most Popular English Language TV seasons ever are ‘Monster: the commencement of the singing
The Jeffrey Dahmer Story’, ‘Bridgerton S2’ and ‘Inventing Anna’. competition Nigerian Idol with a call for
‘Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery’ which was released last year is among
the Top 10 Most Popular English Language Films ever while in the non-English online auditions.
category, ‘Troll’ (Norway) and ‘Loving Adults’ (Denmark) are among the films. Over 40,000 entries were received last
Also, South Korea’s ‘All of Us Are Dead’ is among the streamer’s Top 10 most season with 12 contestants making it to the
popular non-English TV Shows ever. live show.
Korean titles, according to recent data, were consumed by over 60 per cent “Season eight promises to be bigger and
of Netflix subscribers last year. The streamer will be releasing about 34 Korean more entertaining than other seasons,” said
TV series, films and unscripted shows. They include ‘Destined With You’, Executive Head of Content and West Africa
‘Unlocked’, ‘The Devil’s Plan’ and ‘In the Name of God: A Holy Betrayal’
Netflix also added 7.7 million subscribers in the last quarter of 2022. The Channels at MultiChoice Nigeria, Busola
streamer now has 231 million subscribers, and generated about $7.85 billion in Tejumola. “Last year, after a fierce battle
Netflix’s Executive Chairman Reed Hastings
revenue in the fourth quarter, a nearly 2 percent increase from a year earlier. The between Progress and Zadok, the former
company generated about $55 million in profit. emerged as the winner, and we are looking
For the first quarter of 2023, Netflix forecast a revenue growth of 4% and will for more talents who will pack the heat the
In its latest fourth-quarter earnings announcement, Netflix roll out paid sharing more broadly.
unveiled 49 films for its 2023 film slate. This is a departure way our contestants in season seven did.”
The company announced too that one of its founders Reed Hastings will be
from its release of one film a week in the previous year. The ceding his co-chief executive title. He is now Netflix’s executive chairman while The Nigerian Idol season eight winner
streaming giant released a total of 61 English-language, live- Greg Peters, the company’s chief product and chief operating officer, will join will walk away with a N30 million cash
action titles; five animated features; three anime films; and Ted Sarandos as a co-chief executive. In addition to these changes, Bela Bajaria, prize, among other rewards and the season is
17 live-action movies in other languages last year. This year, formerly Head of Global TV, has become Chief Content Officer and Scott Stuber expected to debut in April.
Netflix is offering viewers new and returning titles. They has become Chairman of Netflix Film.

Hosts with the Most Swag on TV

Last year saw a significant number of TV hosts radio.
dominating the screens. From hosting reality TV shows to In 2022, the ladies moved the show to television on Africa
talk shows, these are the TV hosts that will dominate the TV Magic. They started by airing old episodes of the show on
space this year. Africa Magic Urban. They later signed a deal with MultiChoice to
shoot a brand new season, especially for Africa Magic. The brand new
Ebuka Obi-Uchendu: season started airing on Thursday, November 3, 2022, and has been
Undeniably the most popular media personality in making waves with the most amusing and hard-hitting chatter about
Nigeria, Ebuka Obi-Uchendu is starting 2023 with the new trending topics in entertainment and everything in between.
Big Brother Titans. A regular face on Big Brother Naija, Obi-
Uchendu is sharing the spotlight this time with his South Oladotun Kayode (Do2Dtun):
African counterpart Lawrence Maleka. The media personality Dotun is a multimedia personality, video jockey, hypeman, events
has also hosted several episodes of Rubbin’ Minds and compere, and entertainment entrepreneur. He has fortuitously made a
Judging Matters. name for himself in the African entertainment scene.
When he first joined Industry Night in 2009, he wanted hypemen
Ik Osakioduwa: to become the ‘life of the party’, the most essential component of a
Arguably one of the most iconic media personalities of show valued on par with a performing artiste. When he travelled
the past decade, Ikponmwosa Osakioduwa has an enviable with Star Trek in 2016, he became the first major ‘hypeman’ to be paid
portfolio having hosted the Big Brother Africa for six years, independently to anchor a major show. Now, Do2Dtun is known
the Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria pageant for five years, as the ‘Hypeman of the century’. For the past three years, he has
Rhythm Unplugged and Comedy Club: Live in Lagos for successfully hosted the biggest party show in Africa, Turn Up Friday Popular TV Hosts of 2023
four years and The Voice Nigeria for 2 consecutive years. on Africa Magic. The hypeman has already kicked off the year with
He has been the Africa Magic Viewer’s Choice Awards more energetic shows. 6 and airs every Sunday at 8 pm. The lawyer, who has broken
(AMVCAs) only male host for the past eight years as well as some of the most explosive stories the nation has seen over the
hosting the music competition TV show Nigerian Idol for two Bisola Aiyeola: past five years, is expected to continue telling untold stories in
years. He is expected to return as the host for Nigerian Idol Having been on TV right from her days on Project Fame and 2023.
and the AMVCAs in 2023. then becoming a household name when she emerged as a
runner-up on Big Brother Naija in 2017, Bisola has continued to
grow and improve her skills since she started hosting the Africa Ifeanyichukwu Daniels (Hero
Gbemi Olagbegi-Olateru and Toolz Magic dating show, ‘Shoot Your Shot’, in November 2020.
Daniels):
Oniru-Demuren The actress is the host of ‘Family Feud Nigeria’ show which
Hero Daniels believes in his talent and ability to crack
These brilliant ladies have built one of the most successful launched in Nigeria in 2022. . The award-winning actress will
likely continue hosting both TV shows all year long. up a room. For years, Hero consistently put out content via
Nigerian TV shows together after connecting on the radio social media. He held several hosting roles with Ebonylife
years ago. Both ladies became famous as on-air personalities. TV and Linda Ikeji TV. However, Hero’s tenacity and
Toolz joined Beat FM in April 2009 and is perhaps best known Chude Jideonwo: need to keep creating content eventually paid off in a big
for anchoring The Midday Show. Gbemi resumed a few Chude Jideonwo has developed a reputation for being one
of Nigeria’s most revered interviewers. Last year, he moved his way. He became the first host for Africa Magic’s ‘Come
months later, in August 2009. In 2019, they began releasing Play Naija’. The Hero in him will expectedly make him
the Off-Air Show on YouTube, based on popular demand highly acclaimed interview show, ‘With Chude’ to Africa Magic
Urban. The talk series premiered on the platform on November push the envelope in 2023 with brilliant hosting, hilarious
from fans that had listened to them for almost a decade on the commentaries and innovative ideas.
A WEEKLY PULL-OUT 22.1.2023

BELLO
GWANDU
UNVEILING AN
ACCOMPLISHED
PUBLIC SERVANT
He is one of the illustrious Nigerians whose Midas touch in public service is unequalled.
Unassuming and a man of few words, who retired but not tired as his expertise is
still being sought after by corporate entities, meet Mallam Bello Gwandu, former
Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority. The Kebbi State-born maritime
magnate in a recent encounter with Funke Olaode relayed his life and career
trajectory and his wishes for Nigeria as the year unfolds

ASSISTANT EDITOR OLUFUNKE OLAODE/[Link]@[Link].

T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R
˾
JANUARY 22, 2023 55

COVER
For Sanity to Return to Apapa Ports, Activities Must be Decentralised
Terminal Operation. Then of course he realises what is happening. The unfortunate
went to the United States and did Human mistake that we make sometimes in this
Resources Development. country is that you have different authorities
Has the Kebbi prince been a gifted that are coming in, trade organisations that
child considering his academic trajectory? don’t know anything about it. And after
“Not really, I wouldn’t consider myself every four years, we don’t have a long-term
the most intelligent. I was just an average master plan. We have to decide whether we
child just growing up. And you know want a regional port or a national port. And
education can be a mix of a variety of the majority of the cargo coming into this
things. I had business, and social issues country is coming in through Lagos port. And
then, and I also now specialise in ports. So Lagos port has become a major holder of the
basically I think you don’t have to be very activities of the Nigerian economy. So we must
extremely smart as long as you are willing expand the facilities, we must change our
to learn a variety of things. So it is quite pattern, we must go for electronic operation.
an interesting life, those days things were You can’t just do the same activity in the same
much easier, you get scholarships from port at the same time. You do clearing, you do
state governments.” discharging, it is too much.”
Looking content in his white agbada Speaking further, he added “No matter
during a recent encounter with this how much you make provision for, you
reporter, Mallam Gwandu hasn’t lost his should do the clearing of goods outside the
sense of humour and his down-to-earth port. Let the port be purely transit. You open
nature. He has remained true to himself inland terminals where goods can come in
despite his accomplishments. and pass. Don’t forget that if you are doing the
It has been over two decades since he same activity in Apapa port, all the clearing
left NPA, but he kept to himself, doing his agents will be going to the port. All the dock
own thing. workers will be going to the port, everybody
“I am very simple and at the same will be concentrated at the port. But you
time, a private person and that is what life should dissect the activities. Who is benefiting
is supposed to be. If I have been in public now? The nation is not benefiting from the
life as the managing director, and it was a activities, goods are staying for too long, and
very hectic life, I have been exposed, and if you took a loan from the bank, you have to
now I am retired, so you have to spend pay too much interest. So people spend days
your part of life, you don’t have to always on the road, an hour is being lost and you can’t
run here and there and give stress to even plan.”
yourself. Gwandu offered a piece of advice. “The
“I am not being elusive. I played my way out is to change the procedures which are
part in public service and I grew up in a very difficult. Going purely for electronic and
very prominent industry. I come from a physical movement should be discouraged.
very prominent family, so really I don’t Then we have to start doing new ports which
see what is elusive about it. The fact they have already started. So you have to
that I don’t go about beating my drum develop a combination of too many strategies
and shouting and being seen by your to address the issue. Our trade is expanding
colleagues in the press, is not necessarily exponentially and you really have to now
that I am being elusive, no. There was no start to think, we are already losing cargo to
need for it, when I was in the public office, other West African ports. So we should look
I was in the public. But now I am a private at Nigerian ports as a regional hub. And
person, I should conduct my life as a presently, the way we are constituted, some of
private citizen. our seaports cannot cope. Because for regional
“I have been on the board of a few ports that are in transit, you need a deep
companies. I have been in property seaport, you need a multi-functional port that
development. I have also been engaged is very active and big because of the volume of
in some logistics companies, where I ships and the shape of a ship that has changed,
give advice. So you have to really make a you cannot really function with our existing
distinction if you want your life to be loud infrastructure.”
and when it becomes loud, what is the As an accomplished corporate magnate,
end? What is the purpose? I tried to run Gwandu is also a successful family man. “I am
for office during Obasanjo, but I did not a family man by the special grace of God. Two
succeed. I have basically contributed my of my sons are working in one of the major
part to the development of this country. financial institutions. The last one is doing
Right now I consider Lagos as a home. I dentistry in Germany.”
have been in Lagos for 27 years, so I am On his take on certificate acquisition and
almost an indigene of Lagos. Most of skills, Gwandu believes both should walk
my friends come from Lagos, so my life hand-in-hand.
GWANDU is centered in Lagos, Abuja and then the “The world is evolving. One of the major
village.” mistakes that we are making in this country
PHOTOS: ETOP UKUTT Gwandu was and still is an authority is that skills are not totally embraced. In the
in ports affairs and he gave a glimpse next century what is most important is a

B
ello Gwandu, former a very humble beginning and elitist. I am into what went wrong in NPA and the skill. People have what they can contribute
Managing Director of the from the royal family of Gwandu in Kebbi environmental hazards being experienced. to society as opposed to just getting the
Nigerian Ports Authority State. And I have the privilege of growing According to him, “What went wrong certificate. Of course, getting the certificate is
(NPA) was thronged into up as an ordinary person without any air was that there was growth. The port has very important because it makes sense and
national consciousness by about us.” remained the same, the volume of cargo you are able to read and write. But what your
dint of hard work in the early He continued. “I was never going to the port has grown. And we said skill is contributing to society is extremely
80s. And until he retired two disadvantaged. I grew up in a ruling class. it before, that if there is no new port in important. In the next century, it is the ability
decades ago, he remained a My great, great parents, Abdullahi Fodio, Apapa, the activities in the port will spill to become multi-functional that will lead. For
man of untainted integrity. was the younger brother of Shehu Usman to the environment and this is what has instance, your housewife can repair electrical
Gwandu had his primary discipline Dan Fodio. So my family has never been in happened in Apapa and the town itself. gadgets, and she can cook. So because of the
in Port Management from the University what you can call a deprived state when it Because the roads leading to the port are technology that is taking over, people’s skills
of Birmingham after which he joined the comes to learning or teaching. Abdullahi the same roads for the last 40 to 50 years. will have to change on all levels. Offices are
Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) as a Cadet. Fodio was one of the foremost Islamic But the volume of cargo going to the port going to change, it is not going to be this
He rose through the ranks to become an scholars that actually wrote so many books. has increased by almost 20 per cent. So formal office where you are going to put your
executive director, ports operators and later So I did not come from a background, how do you expect the environment to coat and put a tie on a big table, no it has to
became the managing director from August where I would say that I am looking for survive? The infrastructure is like your be a multifunctional one. And what is going
1999 to September 2001. ambition. I am already privileged. Part of heart becoming bigger and bigger and to happen next is that Artificial Intelligence
At NPA, he demonstrated intellectualism the principles of Usman Dan Fodio was you have got the same narrow vein. So combined with the present technology
and patriotism. Today, he has written simplicity.” people have not realised that we are will make a major significant change in all
his name on the sands of time. A man His fire of intellectualism was ignited operating the same pattern of cargo industries. In the agriculture, entertainment,
of modesty, he possesses infectious first at Birnin Kebbi Secondary School. clearance, documentation is not electrical construction industry, a lot of people are not
humility despite growing up in an affluent After his secondary education, he had and the same port is doing two jobs – getting ready for that time. But we just have to
background before forging a successful a brief stint at the Revenue Office. He discharging cargo and clearing cargo.” get ourselves ready.”
career path in one of the nation’s lucrative later moved to the United Kingdom It is easy to point a finger but were Always appearing relaxed and smart, the
parastatals. which eventually opened the window there efforts made while presiding over secret he said is not solely on a good diet but
Gwandu had a privileged beginning. His to his career. In the UK, he attended the NPA as its helmsman? Gwandu with a good exercise, and above all, surrounding
descendants are from the famous Islamic University of Swansea and got a Diploma sense of patriotism said he tried his best oneself with positive and trustworthy friends.
scholar, Usman Dan Fodio’s lineage. He in Social Politics and Administration, then to sanitise the system. “We did. We As the new year unfolds, Gwandu’s
would later toe the line of western education the University of Birmingham where he informed the authorities. You have to wishes are enormous as he reeled out a few. “I
with dedication and commitment, the acquired a Master of Science degree in realise that a port is not operating on want Nigeria to be peaceful and should have
move that eventually placed his path on the Social Impact of Science and Technology. its own. It is under the provision of the peaceful elections. And also to experience
pedestal of success in public service. To ensure he was well grounded in his Ministry of Transport and it is an aspect economic growth.”.
Recalling his privileged beginning with field when he joined NPA, he went for of the federal government. So no matter And on the home front? “I want to
a sense of modesty, he said he belonged to a another certificate in Boat and Harbour what your professional perception is, it experience peace in my life and household.”
family of achievers. “My growing up was Management specialising in Container can only go as far as the government itself
56 T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R
˾
JANUARY 22, 2023

HighLife
with KAYODE ALFRED
08116759807, E-mail: kayflex2@[Link]

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

Davido
Abandons Mansion Agony of a First Lady
Things are happening in Ondo State. concocting weird medicine for her husband to
Some days ago, a WhatsApp audio message consume.
was leaked which is reported to be from the The person believed to be Lady Betty
First Lady of Ondo State, the elegant Betty stated in the recording that she and her
Anyanwu-Akeredolu. In the message, the husband are not traditionalists but believe
voice alleged to be that of Lady Betty, warned in in Western medicine. Thus, Ademosun’s
very strong terms and tone, the Special Adviser prowess (or her pastor’s) in brewing these
on Multilateral and Intergovernmental Affairs things holds no attraction to them. She also
to Akeredolu, Bunmi Ademosun. As a result of stated that Ademosun seems to be nurturing
the context of the message, one can say a word the ambition to be Ondo Deputy Governor
or two regarding the goings-on in the number while lacking the brains to do so.
one Ondo family. The way things stand now, a battle line has
Based on the reports, Lady Betty is been drawn between the women. Although
agonising over the illness of her husband, the mentioned Ademosun has not yet said
Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu. However, anything about the recorded audio, she has
this is a normal thing and how a good wife most likely gotten her hands on it. Whether
should respond to her husband’s health or not she will follow the instructions and
situation. What stands out about the entire warning on the recording is another thing. Akeredolu
thing is that the alleged Lady Betty thinks Even so, every sensible woman can alleged Ondo First Lady, even if the said agony
that her husband’s PA, who is Ademosun, is understand the agony in the voice of the is cloaked in a threatening tone.
Davido

There is a kind of tragedy

that befalls a person and causes Governor Yahaya Bello’s Many Battles … From
them to lose their taste in all
else. Death is one such tragedy. Ohinoyi of Ebiraland to Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan
Because it stretched its hands
to the household of David Kogi Governor, Yahaya Bello, going his duty at welcoming President Muhammadu
all out against the monarch (Ohinoy Buhari when the latter visited Kogi in December.
Adeleke (popularly known by of his Ebiraland, Dr. Ado Ibrahim, and Bello queried the monarch and asked him
his stage name, Davido), the a prominent political figure, Natasha to write a letter addressed to the Kogi State
musical act has taken solace in Akpoti-Uduaghan. The way things government to justify the abandonment of his
a different abode than where are going, Bello might have to resort to duty.
heavier formations to guard his territory Ohinoyi wrote the letter. He explained that
death came calling. In other and authority in the Confluence State. several unfortunate incidents had prevented
news, Davido has reportedly Kogi State in the Middle Belt is a him from entertaining Mr. President, including
moved out of his Banana Island large and quiet place. However, the a bomb blast at his palace at around the time
vastness of the state has only made he was supposed to meet Buhari, his evident
mansion. it into an exciting battlefield for the replacement with someone else who read a letter
The recent news that Davido Governor, Bello. According to sources, not sanctioned by him, and arrangements for the
Bello
got married to his longtime Bello who is known as the White Lion president to inaugurate another Ohinoyi Palace
girlfriend and partner, Chioma When there is a white lion on a is currently fighting battles on every other than the one Dr. Ibrahim has known since
side, one with the monarch of the ‘97.
Avril Rowland (Chioma for mountain, he always ensures that there
Ebira people (who share the same But all the response to Ohinoyi’s letter was
short) has only been matched are no other dominating animals in sight.
When any such dominating animal enters ethnicity as Bello), Dr. Ibrahim, and that it bore the alien title of ‘Atta Ebira’ instead of
in scale with the report that the pride of the said white lion, a battle to another with a sister politician, Akpoti- ‘Ohinoyi of Ebiraland.’ Nothing else.
Davido and Chioma have death ensues. This appears to be what is Uduaghan. The case of Akpoti-Uduaghan is not new. She
going on in Kogi State with the self-titled In the case of the Ohinoyi, Governor is a member of the PDP and is almost always at
moved out of the singer’s Bello accused him of having neglected odds with Bello who is a member of the APC.
Banana Island mansion in
Ikoyi. According to sources,
due to the incident that took In the Akunyili Family, Another Daughter Rises Again Center, an RWJ (Robert Wood Johnson)
Barnabas Health facility, in the United
their son, Ifeanyi, away from States of America. With the recognition
life, Davido and Chioma cannot It is an amazing thing to meditate on that comes with this appointment, Ijeoma
human legacies. Some families, clans, tribes, has undoubtedly added a new shine to
reside in the luxurious Banana and even nations are known for particular the plaques of honour that her late mother
Island mansion. At least, until things. Such things help them stand out received while serving Nigeria. Even more
the memory of that event fades among their peers and dole out to them the noteworthy than Ijeoma making the CMO
somewhat. occasional word of honour and recognition. position is the fact that she is the first black
Many people will still For the Akunyilis, especially those that
remain of the late Professor Dora Akunyili, it woman to take up the role. It is said that it
remember how distraught is a spirit of excellence. Recently, Akunyili’s is her experience that stood her out among
the couple was when their daughter, Ijeoma, showed that she has this her peers, helping the Jersey City Medical
son passed away and it was excellent spirit and is intent on refining it to Center provide comprehensive health care to
alleged to be as a result of its peak. a community in need of it.
drowning. The singer did not Ijeoma, the daughter of the late DG of
the National Agency for Food and Drug Typical of someone raised by the no-
only postpone many shows Administration and Control (NAFDAC), nonsense NAFDAC DG, all Ijeoma had to say
and visitations but also almost has risen to a new status in a foreign land. is that she is grateful for the opportunity to
completely shut out every Specifically, Ijeoma who is a medical serve the people of Hudson country and will
individual that formerly partied practitioner has been appointed as the Chief do her best to ensure that they have access to
Medical Officer of the Jersey City Medical Akunyili sustainable health care.
around with him. He hid in his
shell, refusing to make a public
appearance until much later.
The same was true of The Return of Pastor Sam Adeyemi and Wife …
Chioma who never broke her
silence on the issue. And so
it was only a matter of time
After a Long Hiatus in the US
through his book, Things Fall Apart. When for having left his flock for greener pastures. It
before the house within which Pastor Sam Adeyemi of Daystar Christian also closes the peckers of those who reported
the late Ifeanyi died would Center, Lagos, left Nigeria for the US after that he ran away from Nigeria after standing
become a desolate place of dour reportedly falling out with the Nigerian with Nigerian youths on the #ENDSARS
government, it was believed that his church movement of October 2020.
remembrance. would fall apart. However, after four years Pastor Sam was reported to have left
Thankfully, Davido has other away, the church remains standing. Thus, Nigeria in 2019. If this is true, then it cannot
estates and it is reported that he when he recently returned, there were be the #ENDSARS palaver that motivated
has moved into one of those in cheers all around and the church was him to leave the country for a long hiatus
pepped up once again. in the US. Considering how well-liked the
one of the high-rise buildings Seeing as Pastor Sam and his family man is, there will always be many people
on Bourdillon Road, Ikoyi. It is stayed for all three of the church’s services who are willing to give excuses for him.
Adeyemi
in this location that the singer a few days ago, it is rumored that they are After all, he is back now.
The idea that things fall apart because back to stay. Whether Pastor Sam is back to stay or
and his wife, Chioma, have the center cannot hold is one of the simple The anticipated permanent return of only for a temporary period remains to be
taken as their new residence, truths that the late novelist, Chinua Achebe, Pastor Sam places a cold stopper on the seen. Even so, Daystar is currently lit with
beginning a new life. committed to the generations to come lips of those who had criticised the ‘padre’ cheers.
T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R
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JANUARY 22, 2023 57

HIGHLIFE

Buhari, Associates, Family and Friends of Late Abba Kyari Rally Permutations … Between
Round His Daughter as She Tied Nuptial Knots in Abuja Femi Gbajabiamila and
Marriage is one of the best things in the life entirety of the country will talk about in the
Abiodun Faleke
of a person. When the wedding ceremony is months to come. It is good that smart people
characterised by relatives, friends, and well- Zainab had her mother, Mrs. Kulu Abba plot the path they expect to
wishers who are willing to do anything to Kyari (who is titled Gimbiyar Jama’are) for
grace the occasion, the ceremony acquires company at the event. She also had the honour take in life. For individuals
a brighter quality. So it was for the daughter to have her late father’s relatives and friends like the Speaker of the House
of the late Chief of Staff (CoS), Abba Kyari, who were led by President Buhari at the of Representatives, Hon. Femi
Zainab. As she got wedded to the love of her International Conference Centre, Abuja. Gbajabiamila, and member of
life, Mohammed, a few days ago, she was The wedding Nikkah that was held at
accompanied by very loyal and dedicated the National Mosque in Abuja proved the House of Representatives
individuals and groups, some of whom have that the results of one’s good works can from Lagos State, Hon. Abiodun
greater statuses than one would find among trickle down to one’s children, which is Faleke, such a plotting process is
the guests of a wedding ceremony in Abuja. the privilege that Zainab enjoyed at her necessary before making moves.
The wedding ceremony was colourful. wedding.
As the event took place in Abuja, it had some Folks would recall that the late CoS passed Thus, as the prospects of All
of the glitz and glamour that have become away in 2020 due to COVID-19 complications. Progressives Congress (APC)
native to Abuja weddings. More than that, However, at the time of his passing, he was presidential candidate, Bola
Zainab’s wedding also had the fortune of known for his integrity and loyalty to President Tinubu, take on new shines as the
having President Muhammadu Buhari Buhari. Thus, it is not surprising that the
and several other prominent Nigerians in president would make time out of his busy new year rolls by, Gbajabiamila
attendance. Thus, the wedding went from a schedule to grace the wedding ceremony of his and Faleke are some of those that
simple Abuja wedding to something that the late friend’s daughter. Kyari are being eyed as having made
sound decisions for their future.
Gbajabiamila is no slouch. The
Access Bank Chairman and Foremost man has shown time and again
that he is a brilliant strategist
Amazon, Dere Awosika Still Flying High at 70 with a vision that is virtually
unmatched among the political
find a reason to stand out. The prestigious of the first Nigerian Minister of Finance weightlifters that constitute
Chairman of Access Bank, Dr. (Mrs) in the first republic, Festus Okotie-Eboh, his peer group. In recent times,
Ajoritsedere ‘Dere’ Awosika just clocked 70. in 1966 did not do much. It is a little- Gbajabiamila has made motions
Celebrating her 70th birthday with relatives, known fact that is often relegated to
friends, and well-wishers all over the Current Affairs books. However, Okotie-
that resonated with many
country, she recounted the horrors of losing Eboh was Awosika’s father. Even though people, thereby winning public
her father to a coup the very day she was Awosika was scarred by his assassination, sentiment even though some of
supposed to celebrate her 13th birthday and she did not allow it to hold her down. the elite have been cast aside for
how far she has come since then. During the high points of her life, she a little while until the conclusions
Awosika is a name that resounds with was the Permanent Secretary in several
a thunderous clap in Access Bank. It is the Federal Ministries, including that of
about the 2023 presidency are
name of the woman that was appointed Internal Affairs, Power, and Science and complete.
to the Access Bank Board of Directors in Technology. She also holds a prestigious Then there is Faleke. The
April 2013, and in less than seven years position in the Pharmaceutical Society man representing Ikeja Federal
had already risen so high that she was of Nigeria as a Fellow and also the Constituency has long since
named the Chairman in January 2020. West African Postgraduate College of
Hers is a journey through the valley of Pharmacy. Nevertheless, it is Access
found his footing in the
Awosika horror only to come outside to a rich Bank she is most known to belong to and campaign camp of Tinubu. Being
The person that is committed to doing
garden with a wealth of experience and a this is why she is referred to as one of another smart person with the
strong character. the foremost corporate Amazons in the onions of experience to guide and
the right thing at the right time will always To the rest of Nigeria, the assassination country. direct his path, Faleke’s courage
and loyalty are unrivaled. He
is 100 per cent committed to
Runsewe Urges Parents to Guide Their Children in 2023 ensuring that Tinubu wins the
election.
The march to progress is often fraught Following his charge, Otunba Runsewe According to sources,
with many different issues. The Director- called every Nigerian parent to try until they Gbajabiamila and Faleke
General of the National Council for Arts and shed blood to provide needed moral guidance
Culture (NCAC), Olusegun Runsewe, is to their children. The world as we have it unflinchingly support Tinubu
already making moves to help ensure that the today is a mad place and a strong arm of because they intend to get sweet
march to progress in Nigeria does not devolve discipline is required to block out waywardness. deals out of it. Specifically, if
into a mad dance of unreliable individuals Understanding this point, Runsewe asked Tinubu wins and becomes
and half-bred annoyances who are poor parents to make sure that their children never
imitations of adults. practice lifestyles that undermine African Nigeria’s president, one of
Runsewe led this charge recently while cultures and values in marriage, procreation, them will become the Chief of
addressing Highlife. According to him, the moral decency, and respect for elders. Staff (CoS). This is a reasonable
future of any nation is in the hands of the And because the guidance of parents is
parents in that nation since it is their duty lacking in this generation, young people listen to conclusion considering that
to train their children and give them the deviants and also cultivate negative non-African half of any political planning
needed guidance to become pillars in the values. has to do with permutations.
future. Where the parents fail in this duty, Runsewe’s charge to parents is coming As both Gbajabiamila and
the children become nuisances in society, at a critical and necessary point. If adhered
staining the reputation of others before them to, the country will be better for it and more Runsewe Faleke are allegedly running the
and gradually pulling down the efforts of true individuals will take pride in knowing that a giant bedlam struggling under the weight numbers for CoS, so are others.
nation-builders. Nigeria remains a place of order and sense, not of the foolishness of its disillusioned people. Who comes out on top will be
unveiled in time.

Man of the People, Dapo Abiodun Wins state, this award puts it on the same
level as states that are always committed
to infrastructural development because
Forbes Best of Africa Governor of the commercial nature of the state. So,
even if Ogun does not share this nature,
For the heart that is dedicated to it has come to surpass its peers to stand
working, there will always be something at the front of the pack. All of this is
to recognise and celebrate. The Governor because its governor is a responsible
of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, has won individual.
the Forbes Best of Africa Governor In the time since Abiodun has
award. With this award, Abiodun clears taken over the leadership of Ogun, the
the air once and for all on the Nigerian state has seen serious infrastructural
state government that is most highly development. This has equipped the
regarded across the country and the people to reach further than they
African continent. Considering his imagined before Abiodun came into the
many good works, it is not altogether picture. Thus, things are still bubbling
surprising that he was able to clinch the with development foaming just below
award effortlessly. the surface. When the bubble bursts,
The people of Ogun State have been the people of Ogun will once again
delivered one of the best awards in recent be reminded that their governor is
times: the Forbes Best of Africa Governor forward-thinking, far-seeing, and a true
in Industrial Revolution. As the Gateway man of his people. Gbajabiamila
Abiodun
58 T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R
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JANUARY 22, 2023

LOUD WHISPERS with JOSEPH EDGAR (09095325791)

Pastor Tunde Bakare: A Saul of Tarsus Moment

Mbok, when I first saw the clip Bakare. You will say he should go out of your mouth?
where Pastor Bakare was abusing and sit down and let us hear word. I think APC should unleash
’Emilokan’, calling his campaign all How can you in one one moment FFK of Cambridge on you. Let
sorts of names without mentioning declare Asiwaju as a man of destiny, him use some of those colourful
his name, I rushed to an earlier and that those who are asking for words on you so you can go and
clip where he was saying that Bola his qualifications are time wasters, climb the mountain or wherever
Tinubu was the best thing since and in the next moment, you abuse, it is you go to get the inspiration
Afang and Fufu. stating that he does not have a to be talking about all the crap
I weak. This 360 degrees turnaround badge of honour, and that na you that you spew.
is amazing. It is no wonder that APC get the badge of honour. Look, Tinubu deserves all these
has even gone ahead in response to Badge of honour kill you there. and more but even this one is
say that it is the ‘zero’ he got in the Which yeye badge of honour. Do low. It is base inconsistency and
primaries that is disturbing his big you think we are your ‘mumu’ smacks of an arrogant outlook
bald head. church goers that will be following believing that you are speaking
This time, e be like say I want to side your every word without even to ‘mumu’ people all over the
with APC. This topsy turvy move thinking? Do you think your place. I pity you, you had better
is annoying and decidedly self- hypnotism of your members can go and rest before one small girl
serving. If you watch both videos come and catch us and be making in your church will stand up and
you will lose respect for this Pastor us swallow every word that comes say, ‘pastor shut up’.
Bakare

Wike Adeleke Udofia

Okonkwo

humour. Apparently, in trying to leave Flog the gods? Only Wike. Kai!
KENNETH OKONKWO IS THE BEST audience. He understands that this is a a befitting legacy there has been a rash
SPOKESMAN EVER performance, that it’s all about persuasive of infrastructure commissioning but OLANIWUN AJAYI: THINGS ‘DADDY’
These elections have thrown up a new communications and not the ‘bolekaja’ this very locality saw workers being TOLD ME
class of ‘professionals’ which is party variant that is the lock stock and barrel of kidnapped and this infuriated our Let me first apologize to this great
spokesmen. Political spokesmen have his colleagues in the other parties. governor. man’s family for disturbing his well-
a herculean job. Selling their parties, If his party wins and he is made the Complete with his musicians, he deserved sleep and bringing him
its candidates and generally managing Minister of Information, then we would stormed the community and gave back to the murky waters of Nigeria’s
communications and reputation. They be seeing a new vista in that position. I this very powerful speech: “I don’t politics,especially as it affects the so-
do the real job because they surf media can’t remember having any meaningful understand why you will be enemies called Yoruba elitist intelligentsia.
platforms reaching out to millions at a go persona holding that position in recent of progress,” he thundered. “Why I had just taken over as the Managing
and becoming the real superstars of the times. would you be kidnapping workers? Director of the wonderful Aquila
lot. Kai, as I dey write, I just imagine Dino We are bringing progress and you Asset Management Limited and was
Of the lot, Mr. Okonkwo stands out. as Minister of Information. Ahhh, I cast are kidnapping workers. Shame. Real going through the list of our clients
He has been very pragmatic and neat. and bind. Ahhh, that one will go to the shame to the community and their and stumbled on the name. This
Watching or listening to him has been like United Nations and be singing “ko ni da partners in this kidnapping business was a great name. A name that had
seeing poetry in motion. Falling ever so fun yin”, and be dancing with his boxer though.” contributed to the country in several
strongly on his background as an actor, shorts on display. Kai. Kai. Kai. Then he dropped it: “You traditional spheres so I decided to pay him a visit.
you see the way he understands camera rulers, what are you doing? Why are you I called and got an appointment
angles, projection and elucidation. He NYESOM WIKE: THE GODS ARE NOT TO not asking your gods to intervene? Are and my partner and I headed up
flows and weaves and hits ever so sweetly BLAME they sleeping? Every time you will go to his village somewhere in Ogun
almost like watching Mohammed Ali box The great Mr. Wike who seems to have and be pouring libation. Better go and State, I think. We sat with him and
in those days. out dribbled himself never ceases to warn the gods otherwise I will take a had over four hours of meaningful
Even when his deep Igbo accent doesn’t amaze me. I like his theatrics though bulldozer and go and clear their shrines.” dialogue which opened my eyes to
allow him to mention Yoruba names well, and I am thinking of doing a play in his By this time, I was already on the floor, the folly of the so-called Yoruba elitist
he still manages to make it feel elegant. honour as he is leaving the office. forgetting that my account balance intelligentsia.
The thing used to make me laugh, but When I am bored and feeling down was looking like a federal government He talked about the emergence of
the confidence in which he massacres and out - you know this is January and treasury after Buhari had finally gone. what is now seen as the ‘emilokan’
the names and the dramatic sequencing person don broke, so I am touchy and Wait o, it is getting worse o –” if you phenomenon and its attendant
in saying ‘emilokaaaaan’ just makes you irritable. When I want to get myself don’t go and warn your gods, I will flog decimation of the Afenifere as the
laugh. out of the mood, I will just go to social them,” and that moment the cameras bastion of Yoruba pride and its main
His background as a lawyer also comes media and watch Wike’s clips. He is a went straight to one big traditional ruler vehicle for cultural and political
into play with his deft use of logic and showman extraordinaire and could have who looked like he wanted to faint. influence. The rude incursion of
snazzy arguments. He comes across a second career in Nollywood or stage. I Kai, Wike na wa oo. I will miss him when Tinubu and his ‘funny’ ways of doing
as soft but firm unlike Keyamo who is won’t mind having him at rehearsals. his tenure is over. He was a different kind things lacking in pedigree and a true
brash and spittle driven. But Okonkwo The one I watched just before this write of leader. Very fearless and bold. Kai, sense of fair play and justice was
is delicate, his mannerisms are such that up was classic Wike - fearless, bold, a great man in that sense. A truly great the bane of the destruction of the
he understands the psychology of the intimidating and with a large dose of man. structures that held Yorubaland as
T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R
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JANUARY 22, 2023 59

LOUD WHISPERS

A GENTLEMAN, CHIEF EMEKA

designed by Awo and his Action Group he could not play. That dressing is the one
and Egbe Omo Oduduwa people we used to call ‘otun’ in Shomolu
Very unlike me, I was not hungry and used to dress. They will wear all the
didn’t ask for a drink as I soaked the uniform correct. Nice jersey, fine shorts,
wisdom and knowledge from this great expensive boots, colourful socks complete

ANYAOKU, IS 90 YEARS
man. We agreed to a second session with shin guard and towel on their neck.
and I must state that the engagement All of that is to distract o. As talent no dey,
inspired my partner to run for elections in you go showcase na.
Ogbomosho on the tenets that daddy has My Governor was now walking on to the
spoken about. He failed woefully. pitch with swagger. You know the bobo
As I watched the goings-on in the land, get style, him big bele notwithstanding.
especially the role of the Yoruba elitist He strutted on the field and stood by the
intelligentsia, the words of Chief Ajayi ball.
come back to me in sadness. The Yoruba Then they said, oya. He suddenly saw
elitist intelligentsia are watching with an Okocha in him. He moved to the left,
annoying apathy in some instances moved to the right, moved again to the
and with vigorous involvement as left, moved to the right. By this time the
the weakened structures of the Awo crowd had gone into a frenzy. They were
principled-led leadership push is screaming their heads off. He did the
muddied in the very watery waters move again and like one small chicken,
of Emilokan. I am very sorry but the kicked the ball to one side and bounced a
truth has to be said. This campaign has little bit and walked away.
broken and bended every conceivable His swag seems to be reducing as we are
rule as it trudges to what is looking like no longer seeing the dance videos and
a possible victory. From qualifications, the rest. Looks like someone has said,
to religion, to campaign funding, to it is not elegant for the Governor to be
rules of engagement, everything has dancing about like a drunk with STD. but
been destroyed or bent to unrecognition I no gree, the people of Osun voted very
and the Yoruba Intelligentsia is either overwhelmingly for him despite that and
watching or being a part of it. that is his DNA, his edge.
Will Awo run this kind of campaign? My Lord, let’s keep dancing abeg. You are
How will Jakande rate this campaign? different and eccentric and that is why
Then I watched people who are otherwise we all love you. Please keep being who
very sensible defend this and I just feel like you are. Make your own rules and don’t
slapping them be limited by what people think. Sha try
How can Fashola lend his intelligence to this reduce the bele sha so at least you go fit
cacophony? I see otherwise very intelligent still dey see your something. Kai.
Yoruba elites either keep quiet or thrown in
very powerful but mischievous arguments AS AKAN UDOFIA CROSSES THE RED SEA
as this train wreck is moving. Finally Pharoah and his army could not
Oga will shout- if you vote for me, I will stop the chosen one from crossing the Red
soak bread and give you a slice and people Sea. As I was rounding up this week’s
with PhD, internationally-respected column, the breaking news came that the
economists and highly intelligent lawyers Appeal Court has finally cleared the APC
who have argued cases at the world court governorship candidate in Akwa Ibom,
will shout in agreement. Oh my God. Mr. Akan Udofia, paving the way for his
Let’s not even go to Atiku’s camp, which participation in the upcoming elections.
is just a nest of vileness. We are doomed, I Anyaoku Last week, I was with Udofia and
swear and I will put the blame firmly at the his main man, Scott Tommey at the
feet of the Yoruba elitist intelligentsia. They “Duke, I will be celebrating my 90th at the Wikipedia for that one, me I no get time prestigious Legacy Hotel in Lagos and I
are the ones who have finally destroyed the Metropolitan Club. Where can I send your for that one. For me, this is one of the few asked him- Incoming, ‘you no dey fear?
levers that hold the country with this thing invite? I felt humbled. This was Chief Emeka remaining in that class. When you talk This thing don dey fear me oo. You sure
we are seeing. Anyaoku and not Dino Melaye o inviting me about astuteness, strong principled-led say we nor go migrate leave this thing’
Come and beat me. to his 90th at the elitist bastion known as the life and adhering to the ethos that builds and he laughed and said, ‘there is nothing
Metropolitan Club. not only man but society, then you will bigger than God.’
GWEN NWACHUKWU: NICE TO MEET YOU MA I said, “Sir, you will see me,” and he begin to understand why Chief Anyaoku What has dragged me firmly into his
As I walked away from Chief Anyaoku’s responded “Ok. I will send your Invite.” is a rarity and a living colossus. Almost corner apart from the delicious Afang and
table, one sweet looking lady beckoned I wanted to ask if they will serve Afang. I will our own Mandela type figure without the Fufu that I have eaten in both his Uyo and
at me. “Duke, I read you every weekend not hold it against them if they don’t, it’s just prison. Kai. Lagos homes - by the way the Uyo own
and do not miss your column. But last so that I can make alternative arrangements Oya, let me talk the one that concerns sweet pass the Ikoyi own- is his optimism.
week, I did not agree with you on one just in case. I cannot shout. me. As I was seeing the menu, I was He is just so bent on his vision and
of your stories.” I bent down. She was Anyways, the day came and I totally forgot. not seeing Afang, so I called Jevnik, the mission in Akwa Ibom. They have stoned
matronly and still very, very beautiful. Then my new egbon ‘Shex’ , former MD at restaurant nearby, that they should prepare him, pushed him, all to no avail.
I liked her, the kind of mummy you do Lisabi Mills called, “Duke, are you here?” I an emergency Afang. What I am seeing Even me sef, wey just dey sideline dey
not want to offend or to even know that shouted and jumped and ran to the venue. here is making me hungry. The food was shout Akan, Akan, they have asked me
you had an eye for her housemaid. As I walked in, I saw ‘past power’. People sumptuous and delicious judging from not to come to Akwa Ibom in a long
I said, Mummy, which story is that and we used to watch on NTA news. They the way my brother Nicholas Okoye was while.
she said, she cannot remember. As she going at it but as no Afang, I decided to Yes o, someone called me and said, ‘This
spoke, I saw my primary 4 teacher – were plenty, old and distinguished. Well- Akan you have been shouting, make sure
Mrs. Nwuchukwu. Mrs Nwuchukwu kept and beautiful. I recognised plenty leave after walking the room and greeting you stay away from Uyo for a long time.’
was the first woman I ever had a crush o. I saw General Danjuma and his ever everybody that I knew and knew of me. I say mummy you don’t have to repeat it.
on. She had asked in class, “who can tell beautiful wife, Daisy. I saw Fola Adeola, Then I walked to the most powerful table I am not coming o. I can still get the Afang
me the source of the River Benue,” and Subomi Balogun, Bode Emmanuel, Gen. in the room to greet the celebrant Chief in Shomolu.
the Holy Spirit gave me the answer – Ike Nwachukwu, Mutiu Sunmonu, my Anyaoku. As I got to him, he jumped up Akan’s perseverance and firm
Cameroun Mountains or something like Oga, Nduka Obaigbena and my best and waved and was genuinely happy to commitment has withstood the vagaries
that, I shouted and she said correct and friend in this world, Asue Ighodalo see me. “Duke of Shomolu,” he screamed of Nigerian politics and I would wish
smiled. Na that smile enslaved me for 40 Chief Osunkeye was there and my and Chief Obasanjo – remember I did to not only congratulate him but also
years o. favourite Yoruba man Chief Olusegun his play ‘Aremu’ also jumped up and the the judiciary that has stood by the truth
That was the smile I saw on this sweet Osoba was there looking very resplendent in waiters were looking at me with surprise. and justice and lastly the millions of
lady as she spoke. I said “ohhh thank his white agbada and then the President was Those ones were thinking I was their mate Akwa Ibom youths who have remained
you so, so much ma, I will keep writing represented by Gambari, and then I saw my because I didn’t comb my hair. Then Chief unwavering in their support .
if they allow me. How are you ma?” And favourite aunty Titi Adebiyi seated beside Anyaouku wanted to start explaining me to
she said fine and I said, “sorry ma, can Uncle Yemi Ogunbiyi. Chief Obasanjo. “He is a brilliant writer and PRISCA ETUK IS MY SWEET VIOLET
I meet you?” And she said, “Mrs. Ike Then former President Obasanjo waltzed in he does plays …. And Chief Obasanjo said, Before you people will start trying to
Nwachukwu,” and pointed at the empty and the hall went into a frenzy. His charisma “Emeka, I know Duke o.” I hugged both of call Duchess that I have started again o,
seat beside her. undeniable and grabbing everyone’s them and then I looked at His Excellency. Prisca is my brother Cyril’s daughter.
You know that saying, ‘Old soldier never attention and moving up and down the hall Now His Excellency Babajide is a very She recently celebrated her 21st and my
die’ and as I don’t want pellets in my to go and grab Mrs. Anyaoku who was handsome man and was looking very brother reached out. ‘Edgar, I need you to
buttocks, I said “oh ok mummy, thank celebrate my daughter at 21’.
you so much, goodbye let me run.” She seated at the back of the hall and moving neat and sweet with his white agbada Then he sent me some information about
smiled. Mrs. Nwachukwu smiled again her to the high table where His Excellency, but I no happy with am sha. He knew Prisca that weakened me. She was born
but this time, I no look abeg. Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu was elegantly why and as the sharp man that he is, premature and was grossly mismanaged
Seriously, I used to read a lot about seated with his super sweet wife. thought to himself ‘before this crazy at the hospital. She struggled through that
her in the 90s and used to admire her You see, the problem with Chief Obasanjo boy will go and yab me in front of my and at two years old, she fell mysteriously
carriage and disposition. But meeting is that he is too ‘forward’. Mrs. Anyaoku madam,’ quickly said, “Duke, Segun ill. A sickness that to date has not been
her personally was kind of an epiphany. was well positioned to catch any side mentioned, don’t worry I have your diagnosed. Kai, this illness took her to
A true lady, her composure and carriage chic that would enter; that was how number, I will call you.” her 7th year after which it miraculously
were just something else. They just don’t Chief Obasanjo went and blew her cover. I said call me o. Excellency, call me o, disappeared and she regained her health.
make her type again. Well-done ma and Thankfully, at 90 and with his pedigree, otherwise I will tell madam o. He looked at Today she is a second-year student at the
thanks for the nice words. She even asked there will not be any side chics today. me, winked that kind abeg, abeg wink and University of Uyo and the light of the
after the Duchess oooo. Maybe I should I also saw Chief Ojora and his Queen I said ok. You na my paddy. Great guy. Etuk family. It is fitting to note that she
send that one to Madam for some lessons Erelu. Kai, old money and pedigree all Happy birthday, Chief Anyaoku. You have was named after the former MD of Nicon
o. Kai! seated in one room at the Metropolitan lived the life most of us can only dream of Insurance Plc where her papa worked as
Club all in honour of one of the greatest and you have made a great mark. Please stenographer- Lol.
ADEMOLA ADELEKE: YOU CANNOT EVEN ever Nigerian. be inviting me to all of your birthdays Happy birthday my daughter and may
PLAY Chief Anyaoku remains an enigma. going forward as I really had fun but God who has started something very
Did you see the video of my favourite An internationally respected statesman. next time, please let there be Afang o beautiful in your life lead you to glory in
governor about to do a kick off at a I cannot come and be writing his because I really do not understand where Jesus mighty name. Whenever you are in
football match recently? Lagos, let’s do Afang but your papa will
From the way he was dressed, I just knew achievements and pedigree. Please go to the caterer go learn her own work. Kai. pay, he dey owe me. Bless you.
60 T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R
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JANUARY 22, 2023

Adebayo Adeoye
SOCIETY WATCH bayoolunla@[Link]; 08054680651

Subomi Balogun: The True Definition of a Real Wealthy Aristocrat

The name Otunba Subomi Balogun means country’s financial sector and launching it into
different things to different people. To some, the the global map. His philosophy is: “All things
name stands for courage, and tenacity, while for are possible if you believe.” It is a known fact
others it means inventiveness, brilliance, and that many discover themselves in moments of
distinction to some others. Balogun in all ways is trouble.
like the proverbial huge elephant. Your description Almost two decades after retiring from
is determined by which side you are viewing active banking, the octogenarian banking
from. legend is still wielding much influence in
By every standard, Balogun is a colossus in the Nigeria’s banking sector. Some even argue that
Nigerian money market. A man of excellence, and he has as much influence after his retirement as
integrity; a trailblazer and pioneer extraordinaire he did while he was very active as Chairman
in the sector. and CEO of the first wholly-owned Nigerian
A trained lawyer, Balogun came into the Merchant bank, FCMB.
financial sector at a time when the country was At 88, many would have expected this old
seriously in need of top intellectuals like him. He dandy tycoon to be retired from the hustle,
did not disappoint. In no time, he reshaped the rather he has shown no signs of slowing
Sekinat industry and became a household name. down as he advances in years. Just as he has
Balogun wrote his name with a golden pen been making fortunes from his banking days,
Olori Sekinat when he became part of those who stood up to
be counted in the rewriting of the story of the
this stylish billionaire is unrelenting and he
continues to make billions from many of his Balogun

Elegushi’s Homily Double Celebration for Communication Wizard, Steve Omojafor

No amount of words is enough to express
the unconditional love of a mother. A mother’s To many, January 6 of every year is like that had a six-man Jazz Band with exquisite
love is a peaceful and powerful force to be any ordinary day in their lives. But this is not cuisine and exotic drinks, in good measure.
reckoned with. so for Nigerian businessman and veteran Omojafor, a thoroughbred marketing
A true mother’s love and affection were advertising expert, Sir Steve Omojafor, communications professional, mentor,
recently on display at the palace of Oba Chairman of STB-McCann. For him, the day author, statesman and servant of God
Saheed Elegushi of Ikate Kingdom when the is always worth celebrating, as it signifies the is a man of many colourful parts. His
elegant Olori Sekinat Elegushi took the centre beginning of his earthly sojourn. career spanned through the Daily Times
stage to celebrate the New Year party with The marketing communication expert of Nigeria (1972) as Sub-Editor and then
over 200 children from within her kingdom clocked 77 this year and as such, provided into advertising - first at Lintas Limited,
and its environs through her Quality and another opportunity to celebrate the before the joint formation of Rosabel
Selfless Empowerment Foundation. man whom many have drunk from his Advertising Limited and finally MD/CEO
The annual New Year party is one of fountain of knowledge and are today of STB-McCann Lagos. He is now retired but
Olori’s humanitarian programmes for ‘irokos’ of sorts in the nation’s thriving remains the Group Chairman and Regional
residents in the community, particularly the marketing communication industry. Consultant.
indigents. The children, who had a quality As gathered the day was a double A man with a deep love for humanity,
time of entertainment, amusement and celebration for the expert as it was also Omojafor remains involved with numerous
merriment, also received different items his wedding anniversary. That day, 47 NGOs and community development
including school bags, writing materials, years ago, he married his lovely wife, projects.
lunch boxes, water bottles, snacks and toys. Mojisola, so the anniversary was tagged Honoured by the Pope many years ago
In her remarks, Olori Elegushi thanked ‘777!’ as Papal Knight Commander of the Catholic
God on behalf of the children for keeping It was disclosed that a thanksgiving mass Church, he is also Chairman, the Board of
them alive and healthy to witness another was held at his home in Osborne Estate, Ikoyi, Trustees of Augustine University in Epe,
Omojafor followed by a very well-attended reception Lagos State.
year. She advised them to be focused, and
disciplined and shun all forms of social vices,

Iyiola Omisore’s
to make their parents and the country proud. daily.
She thanked her husband and patron Before he emerged as the then number
two citizen in Osun State in 1999, Iyiola While he is described by some naysayers
of the foundation as well as other trustees as a hostile and arrogant man, his admirers
for their support and for also spending time Omisore had embraced success, and indeed
already established a solid relationship with are always quick to come to his defence and
with the children and equally thanked the thump their chests for him as a hugely

Staying Power
International Women Society (IWS) and success, to the envy of others.
It has now been revealed that his success misunderstood personality. According to
other organisations for their partnership and his supporters, this narrative was created
collaboration. story in the past years can be attributed to
years of hard work, dedication, perseverance by some unscrupulous elements merely
and goodwill. for political reasons.
His influence and power spread all over. However, Society Watch gathered that
His businesses spread across the country, the billionaire businessman that built his
When Property Expert, while his wealth cuts across and his star
shines brightly. He is simply a man with the
first house at the young age of 22 is one
of the most generous human persons
around.
Alobo-Bakare, was Honoured Midas touch, as anything he touches turns to
gold, although his political trajectory could It is also on record that he is one of the
be described as a sweet-bitter experience. biggest individual donors at the Obafemi
Over time, Hakeem Alobo-Bakare’s The Ife, Osun-State-born prince has Awolowo University Teaching Hospital,
exemplary life achievements and awesome suffered many humiliations in the murky where he has been a regular face for many
potential for positive social transformation have water of Nigeria’s political scene that years.
ordinarily would have consumed any lily- So, this year was not going to be an
earned him recognition, rewards as well as exception as he visited on January 1, 2023,
laurels from far and near. livered person. But the more the war, the
more he sprouts out like a seed watered as usual, to bring succour to those who are
With his exemplary lifestyle, this gentleman in need. It was disclosed that he brought
freshly by the morning dew. Omisore
extraordinaire has earned recognition across the Today, the businessman-turned- smiles to the faces of many when he offset
country for being a detribalised Nigerian. politician, after years of vacating office as a scheme of things in the game of politics. hospital bills of patients who had no hope
Coming from a very humble background deputy governor and senator, has continued Little wonder his homes, both in Lagos of paying their medical bills.
and rising to the position of a successful to remain relevant and it is not in doubt that and Ile-Ife are like a Mecca of sorts where He parted with several millions of naira
businessman of national and international he remains a force to be reckoned with in the many go to seek one favour or the other for this purpose, a source disclosed.
repute, Alobo-Bakare’s life as a philanthropist of
a rare breed and a social reformer of distinction
has not come as a surprise to those who know
him.
Conquering Spirit of Real Estate Wizkid, Sijibomi Ogundele
This was on display when he was penciled For those who have been wondering super amenities that are synonymous with
down for a chieftaincy title as Otunba Bobajiro about his rising profile as a businessman, one 21st-century cities and more, at an affordable
of Jogan -Orile, in November 2022, by His Royal of the things working for Sujimoto Group cost.
Highness Adeyemi Adekeye JP, as many who boss, Dr. Sijibomi Ogundele, is that he always It was gathered that the SSC brings three
can attest to his charming character applauded sees opportunities where others are bogged key elements to contemporary cities together in
the decision. Expectedly, his circle of friends down by the morbid fear of failure. Besides, he one place that has never been seen anywhere
built over the years cuts across the who-is-who pursues his dreams with an unbent resolve to before. They are strategic location, 21st-century
in high society, including captains of industry, succeed, irrespective of the challenges that may infrastructures and affordable pricing. This
monarchs, politicians, socialites and celebrities. come his way. revolutionary project will definitely change
It is, therefore not surprising when a man Interestingly, Ogundele who recreated the the way Nigerians live totally. It also has
sector with his luxury buildings within the a plaza with retail shops, cinemas, offices,
with such high-net-worth and high-wired space of coming into the industry is today a rooms, hotels, casino, a rooftop pool, a spa and
connections plans an event, you can bet that it household name in the sector and still waxing restaurants
will never be in half measure. stronger. As revealed this year, more than ever
Perhaps, this explains the frenzy and buzz In eight years, Sujimoto has disrupted the before, his firm has embarked on a strategic
in social circles, as the respected Lagos socialite luxury real estate space in Nigeria, injecting internal restructuring as an organisation
Ogundele
received his title last week Tuesday. quality and value creation, which before that was described as corporate governance,
Society Watch gathered that the sleepy town now, was a scarce commodity. The property conquered the field, he is gradually spreading alignment, and expansion strategy. This is
of Jogan-Orile was literally shut down for the merchant is building structures that people once his tentacles and breaking new ground as has simply because he understands that he cannot
once-in-a-lifetime experience as the prominent thought were impossible; setting standards, recently set up Sujimoto Smart City (SSC) in dream to compete globally and think locally.
building developer installed the Otunba and constantly challenging the limit of height Epe, Lagos State to make lands and housing This new era in his corporate existence allows
Bobajiro amid pomp and pageantry. The event and possibilities in the luxury real estate sector available for as many as possible. With a focus him to see the world as his marketplace,
paraded many Nigerian politicians, business in sub-Saharan Africa and beyond. to give Nigerians the opportunity to own lands consolidate his local presence and export his
moguls and Obas. Society Watch gathered that having in a Sujimoto inspired Smart City, enjoying all vision to all corners of the globe.
THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ˾
JUNE 24 2012

ARTS & REVIEW

A PUBLICATION 22. 1. 2023

The Trouble with Those Resurrected Memories…

Despite the maelstrom of controversy swirling around it, Prince Harry's bestselling memoir,
Spare, remains a valuable peek at the behind-the-scenes life of the British royal family.
Okechukwu Uwaezuoke writes

S
ome decisions just have to
be taken. For Prince Harry,
Duke of Sussex, one of those
decisions—an unavoidable
one after the uproar that
trailed his "stepping down"
from royal duties—is the
writing of his controversial autobiography,
Spare. In the 471-page memoir, which has
EHHQR΀FLDOO\RQWKHERRNVWDQGVVLQFH
January 10 and, according to CNN, chalked
up a record sale of 1.4 million copies in its
ÀUVWGD\RISXEOLFDWLRQWKH\HDUROG
prince, so to speak, tells his "own side of
the story."
And why would his side of the story
EHGHHPHGQHFHVVDU\LQWKHÀUVWSODFH"
Consider that Prince Harry—the second
child of the late Princess Diana, the ex-
wife of the reigning British monarch, King
Charles—has been in the public glare since
his boyhood. Isn’t it obvious that most
of what is known about his public and
SULYDWHOLYHVFRPHVIURPWKHPHGLD"6R Copies of Spare on display
in a crazed world where no one seems to
care about man's true purpose of existence, from the vitriol trailing his frequent, albeit
trivia like the "glitzy world" of the royals unintentional, faux pas. One of his more
is deemed a front-burner issue. Of course, obvious faux pas is his controversial don-
there are often attempts to blur the true ning of a Nazi costume in 2005 during
motives behind the intrusiveness, scandal- a "native and colonial" theme party in
mongering, and outright slander with the London, which was feasted upon by the
SKRQH\MXVWLÀFDWLRQVWKDWWD[SD\HUVQHHGWR 8.WDEORLG7KH6XQ$ERXWWKHVFDQGDO
know how their money is being spent. But which he later apologised for and described
then, cleverly distorting facts to give them as "one of the biggest mistakes in my life,"
wrong meanings to the detriment of the Harry blames it on the encouragement
hounded subjects remains a reprehensible of his brother and his wife, Kate. “Well,
act before the laws of natural justice. ZKDWQH[W"µWKHFHQVRULRXV%ULWLVKVFDQGDO
Now, doesn’t this explain why this mongering public seems to wonder. Since
otherwise beautifully written narra- being revealed as a drug addict, the prince
tive, a compelling read by all standards, appears to have a habit of hopping from
sometimes reads like a litany of complaints one scandal to the next.
against the paparazzi, who seem to de- Still on psychological reprieve, the Af-
light in chasing, hunting, and haunting ghan war provides a perfect escape, which
KLP"7KLVLVZKHQWKHUHDGHULVQRWEHLQJ is probably why he apparently begged for
reminded, albeit tangentially, about the a second deployment. Ditto his excursions
fact that fate—a "fate etched in stone," as Prince William and Prince Harry to both the North and South Poles.
he calls it—had assigned him the role of 7KHQWKHUHLV0HJ 0HJKDQ0DUNOH 
a "spare" to the "heir." who has phenomenally survived the in-
7DONLQJDERXWEHLQJDVSDUH DZRUG Yet, Prince Harry’s circumstances of liam Ernest Henley—interesting given trigues of the British establishment and
that gave the book its title), he brings this birth—for the average man, accidental but that Harry isn't the bookish type—revolve WKHUDJLQJVWRUPVWLUUHGE\LWVPHGLD7KLV
fact early in the narrative to the reader’s by no means so in reality—are ones that around Harry's paying the price for be- LVDIWHUWKHÁDPHVRI+DUU\·VSUHYLRXV
attention in his riveting description of his millions would wish to trade places with LQJUR\DO7KHUHOHQWOHVVKDUDVVPHQWE\ relationships were extinguished by the
room at Balmoral Castle, a residence of him for. Indeed, much of his experiences— the paparazzi, his rivalry with his older latter. It is gratifying that despite the
the British royal family in Aberdeenshire, both substantiated and unsubstantiated EURWKHU:LOO\ ZKLFKFOLPD[HGLQWKHODWWHU maelstrom, she became the mother of
Scotland. “My half of the room was far PRUDOLQMXULHVLQÁLFWHGRQKLPE\WKHPH- NQRFNLQJKLPWRWKHÁRRUGXULQJDQDUJX- two healthy babies: Archibald and his
smaller, less luxurious,” he writes. “I never dia—arise from a lack of understanding of PHQW WKHSDODFHVWDͿ VZLO\VFKHPHVDQG sister, Lillibeth.
asked why. I didn’t care. But I also didn’t the true purpose of man's earthly existence his father, the then-Prince of Wales, who Meanwhile, the memoir, whose dedica-
QHHGWRDVN7ZR\HDUVROGHUWKDQPH and the circumstances surrounding it. If seemed to lack compassion and would tion reads: "For Meg, Archie, and Lili...
Willy was the Heir, whereas I was the the earth-dwelling creature has become not stand up for his "darling boy," are but and of course, my mother," has been
6SDUH7KLVZDVQ·WPHUHO\KRZWKHSUHVV blind to reality outside his bodily senses, a few examples of this. Should it come called out for factual accuracies, which,
UHIHUUHGWRXV³WKRXJKLWZDVGHÀQLWHO\ it is due to millennia of the frantic pursuit as a surprise, then, that the darkening among others, include inconsistencies
WKDW7KLVZDVVKRUWKDQGRIWHQXVHGE\ of material possessions. Even though it and toxicity of his immediate ethereal in the circumstances surrounding his
Pa and Mummy and Grandpa. And even is enveloped by material coverings, his surroundings were to blame for his re- *DQ*DQ·V JUHDWJUDQGPRWKHU GHDWK
*UDQQ\7KH+HLUDQGWKH6SDUH³WKHUH true essence, the spirit, whose existence QXQFLDWLRQRIUR\DOGXWLHV" and his allegedly getting an Xbox for
was no judgment about it, but also no is sometimes vehemently denied or de- 2IFRXUVHWKHVWRU\RͿHUVPRPHQWVRI KLVWKELUWKGD\LQIURPKLVODWH
ambiguity. I was the shadow, the support, rided, is blindly groping about in this psychic reprieve from all this toxicity. His mother before she died when the device
the Plan B. I was brought into the world in dense material realm. It is for this reason, brief stay in Australia and the frequent was invented in 2001 and didn’t get to
case something happened to Willy. I was especially owing to his inability to make periods he spent "in Africa," a general term Europe until 2002.
summoned to provide backup, distrac- sense of his physical reality, that he deems that ignores the reality that he is referring All of this does not, however, take away
tion, diversion and, if necessary, a spare such things as the circumstances of his to a whole continent with 54 countries, from the worth of the book, which was
part. Kidney, perhaps. Blood transfusion. birth accidental. DUHH[DPSOHVRIWKHVHH[SHULHQFHV7DONLQJ released by Penguin Random House.
6SHFNRIERQHPDUURZ7KLVZDVDOOPDGH Undeniably, the narrative documented DERXW$IULFD³VSHFLÀFDOO\%RWVZDQD³LW It also doesn't matter that it was purport-
explicitly clear to me from the start of in the memoir's three parts, which are is often depicted as an epicurean haven edly ghostwritten by J. R. Moehringer,
life’s journey and regularly reinforced labelled with lines borrowed from the of refuge, where he feels safe from the who CNBC said had previously penned
thereafter.” FODVVLFE\WKFHQWXU\(QJOLVKSRHW:LO- harassment of the paparazzi and protected two other best-sellers.
EDITOR OKECHUKWU UWAEZUOKE/ [Link]@[Link]
62 THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ‡JANUARY 22, 2023

ARTS & REVIEW\\POT POURRI

PUBLICATION
$QG6R/DG\'RQOL%URXJKWWKH/DJRV3DQLFWR$EXMD« $QWLFLSDWLQJ(GX7LPHV$IULFD
Segun Ade-Martins business risk for a label. If there is
truth to this, it’s utter nonsense. Aspecial publication "Edu-

/
ast year, on Friday, +RZHYHUPD\EH/DG\'RQOL times Africa" published
'HFHPEHU/DG\ QHHGVWRUHLJQLQKHUWDOHQW/LNHVR by Adebiyi Oke will be
Donli organised a PDQ\JHQLXVOHYHOWDOHQWVEHIRUH R΀FLDOO\ODXQFKHGYLUWX-
homecoming con- her,shemayneedto"dumbdown" ally on Monday, January
cert at the romantic her total package. That is, to focus UG7KHEULHIDQGYHU\
Mambaah Cafe in KHUFUHDWLYLW\RQDJHQUH5LJKW businesslike ceremony is
Abuja. She was accompanied now, she can express herself in
E\ WKH /DJRV 3DQLF EDQG 7KH billed to begin at 3pm and
multiple genres. She may look end by 4pm.
show’s opening acts were the up to Beyonce as a musical role
angelic songstress Nunu Eluma model, but she may need to
A statement signed by
DQG VPRRWKYRLFHG /REL ZKR VWXG\/DG\*DJD·VVWDUW$NRQ the Editor In Chief of
each performed intimate sets, who brought her to the limelight, the magazine, Oladapo
serenading the crowd with their said that in the beginning, they Akande, disclosed that
bedroom R&B tunes. had to reduce her musical ideas the monthly magazine was
/DG\ 'RQOL DQG WKH /DJRV for the label to sell her music and jointly founded by the trio
Panic’s set started at around 10 EXLOGDIDQEDVH/DG\'RQOLQHHGV of Adebiyi Oke, Oladapo
p.m. instead of 8 p.m. not because Lady Donli in performance WKLVLQWHUYHQWLRQDQGKRSHIXOO\ Akande and Kammonke Abam, who are deeply worried
they kept fans waiting, but rather she can endure the constraints to about the poor state of the education sector on the African
EHFDXVHDVLJQLÀFDQWQXPEHURI blossom into the megastar she is continent.
fans came late. Refreshing profes- DOO\HYHQJRRGVLQJHUVJHWSLWFK\ capable of. He said it was disheartening that youths now consider
sionalism from the performers.
8QGHUWKHFDQRS\RIOLJKWVDQG
ZKHQSHUIRUPLQJEXW/DG\ZDV
in perfect pitch.
MUSIC 'LG$EXMDJLYH/DG\'RQOLD
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education as a scam and lamented the general neglect of
WKLVYLWDOVHFWRUE\JRYHUQPHQWV
WUHHEUDQFKHV/DG\VKLPPLHGDQG She says a sign of success for her regards, the answer would be yes.
rocked the night in her electric blue She is a pure artist, and the <HVLQWHUPVRI/DG\ VHPRWLRQDO The Editor-in-Chief lamented the high unemployment rate
is playing in sold-out stadiums like world is not in sync with her. The
ERG\VXLW6KHVD\VKHUODWHVWLQÁX- %H\RQFH V2QHFDQVHHWKDWVKHFDQ attachment to the city and its in the country and condemned the perennial strikes by the
ence is James Brown, and you can ZRUGLQJLVLPSRUWDQWWKHZRUOG people. After all, she acknowl- $FDGHPLF6WDͿ8QLRQRI8QLYHUVLWLHV $688 DQGRWKHU
reach such heights as she interacts should synchronise with her, not
VHHLWLQKHUPRYHPHQWVRQVWDJH ZLWKWKHFURZG6KHLQYLWHVDJX\ edged her primary schoolmates stakeholders, which always disrupt the academic calender.
This Pan-African rock star because of her ego, but because were in attendance, as well as old He described "EduTimes Africa" magazine as a necessity
RQWKHVWDJHWRFKDQW+HOOR/DG\ RIKHUWDOHQW+RZHYHUWKHYHU\
earned her money with this per- to her. Her mastery of performance IULHQGVDQGPRUHVLJQLÀFDQWO\KHU which connects education to people in a way that is practical
IRUPDQFH6KHUHYHDOHGZKDWKHU thing that makes her a brilliant mother. In a commercial sense, and useful.
is undeniable. artist and a breath of fresh air in
music is about by performing her After a successful debut album, $EXMDOHW/DG\'RQOLGRZQ7KH +HVDLGYDULRXVVHJPHQWVRIWKHPDJD]LQHHQOLJKWHQDQG
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atoughtimeduringtheCOVID-19 hindering her. She is open about JXLGHWKH$IULFDQ\RXWKDQGEULQJWRWKHIRUHLQQRYDWLRQV
´&DVKµ0DQ\1LJHULDQIDQVFRP- pandemic, an excellent Extended time, and many more should DQGJHUPDQHSHUVSHFWLYHVZULWWHQE\VHDVRQHGHGXFDWLRQLVWV
SODLQWKDWPRVWRIWKHLUIDYRXULWH her struggles as an independent KDYH DWWHQGHG DQ DPD]LQJ
3OD\ (3 UHFRUG:LOGDQGDIHZ DUWLVW(YHU\WKLQJDPXVLFDODUWLVW and patriots.
musicians are poor performers. singles,oneexpectshersophomore performance, but they didn’t.
Their recorded music is a remark- with backing can do, she has to The "How Education Made Me" segment of the magazine
album to be stunning. Although Essentially, manyAbujans missed FRQWDLQVLQVSLUDWLRQDOLQWHUYLHZVRIKLJKO\VXFFHVVIXOLQGL-
ably better experience than their self-fund. For example, for three out on the wonderful experience
she was tight-lipped about what \HDUVSURPRWHUVKDYHUHIXVHGWR YLGXDOVZKRDWWULEXWHWKHLUVXFFHVVHVLQOLIHWRVRIWVNLOOV
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WKDWWKHUHZRXOGEHDQHYROXWLRQ Donli stepped in and organised
the opposite is true. Her recorded of sound and style, and it would hope is that by December this trajectories, before and after graduation.
PXVLF LV EULOOLDQW EXW KHU OLYH it herself. year, Nigeria and the world will Dignitaries expected at the launch include Professor Segun
EHWKHPRVWSHUVRQDOWKDWZHKDYH One can only speculate on why
performances are the core of her heard from her. Her collaboration recogniseherperformanceabilities Ajibola, former President of the Chartered Institute of Bank-
musical expression. Songs that DWDOHQWVREULJKWGRHVQ·WKDYH DQGÁRFNWRKHUVKRZV,WZRXOG HUV1LJHULDDQGFXUUHQWO\DOHFWXUHUDW%DEFRFN8QLYHUVLW\
wishlist includes contemporary major labels and management in
are struggling to get airplay and Fuji-inspired artists such as Bella be a life-changing experience. Mrs Maureen Ihonor, an Education Consultant and retired
traction on the charts come to life line to sign her and promote her.
[Link], My theory is that her unfettered Director of Corona Schools Trust Council and Mr Guido Stock,
in a beautiful way. The band and RQHZRXOGVD\EXWIRU/DG\'RQOL ‡$GH0DUWLQV ZULWHV IURP head of the Commercial section at the Austrian Embassy.
VKHDUHORFNHGLQKHUSRFNHW8VX- FUHDWLYLW\LVVHHQDVDQXQWHQDEOH
unusual is her domain. $EXMD

CULTURE
(YRNLQJWKH(PRWLRQVRIWKH%LDIUDQ:DU([SHULHQFHV
Nwokedi’s ‘Shred of Fear’ masterfully captures a phenomenological account :$1'$$3D\V+RPDJH
of a three-year hellish journey towards the unfulfilled dream of a promising WR,IH&XOWXUH
nation, Biafra. Anthony Ogbo writes Yinka Olatunbosun

T
he mechanisms ZDU$JDLQKHUHLVWKHDXWKRU´, $WWKHODVWVHDVRQRIWKHFXOWXUDOHYHQW:$1'$$KRVWHGDQG
underlying child- saw pictures of mutilated bodies SURGXFHGE\$LVKD6DQQL6KLWWXDYDULHW\RIGDQFHGUDPDIRRG
hood memories are DQGWKH\JDYHPHWKHFKLOOV7R DQGKLVWRU\RI,OH,IHZDVH[SHULHQFHGE\FXOWXUHEXͿVLQ/DJRV
still a mystery, with crown it all, there were constant
+HOGDWWKH:DWHUIDOOV(YHQW&HQWUH2UHJXQ,NHMDWKHVHULHVZKLFK
socialisation,neuro- mobsofangryyoungmenrunning
logical maturation, through the streets of Aba carry- is the third of its kind is initiated to celebrate the nation’s cultural
DQGRWKHUIDFWRUVIUHTXHQWO\LQÁX- LQJOHDYHVFU\LQJIRUYHQJHDQFH GLYHUVLW\ZKLOHKDUQHVVLQJFXOWXUDODVVHWVIRUHFRQRPLFJURZWK
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8FKH1ZRNHGLZULWHVDFKURQLFOHRI RXUVHOYHV·µ For the end of the year edition, Ile Ife was celebrated using theatrical
his experiences during the Biafran In addition to music, which elements of dance, music, chants and drama. Ile Ife is reputed as
:DUDOVRNQRZQDVWKH1LJHULDQ becameatherapeuticpartofthecul- the capital and principal religious centre of the Yoruba Kingdom of
&LYLO:DULQKLVERRN6KUHGRI)HDU ture in the Biafran land, the author Ife. The Yorubas also consider the site of Ife as the place of creation
+LV PHPRU\ LV XQULYDOOHG DQG recounts how air raids became the while the creator god Oduduwa separated the earth from water and
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that the younger generation is not jets preyed on innocent masses at Some aspects of the history of Ile Ife were dramatised in a short
familiar with. will. In his own words, Nwokedi presentation by some members of the National Troupe. Another
$FFRUGLQJWR1ZRNHGL´&KLOG- ZULWHV´:HZRXOGVHHWKH0,*V
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Butthemostexcitingandcredible DFWRU<HPL6KRGLPX+HZDVPDGHWRWDVWHVRPHQDWLYHFXLVLQHOLNH
indelibly etched into my psyche.
Now and then, I see them in my BOOKS endorsement of this book comes
fromChiefArthurMbanefo,acom-
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ORZSDVWWKH*5$>*RYHUQPHQW water yam pottage called Ikokore. The food is also popular among
mind’s eye, in shades of sepia, like 5HVHUYHG$UHD@ERPEWKHWRZQ WKH,MHEXV$UHSUHVHQWDWLYHRIWKH2RQLRI,IHJXHVWVZKRDUH,IH
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old photographs from a family some authors who fought in the center and markets, climb back indigenes as well as other cultural enthusiasts graced the occasion.
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participated fully in the Biafra
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memories and hold fast to them, ZDUFRQWHQWWRSXUVXHWKHLU:HWKH the Aburi Accord. On January 4 ZHXQGHUVWDQGWKHFXOWXUHRIRQHDQRWKHUZHUHVSHFWWKHPµVDLG
HYHQWVWKDWGHÀQHGWKHZDUIRUWKH
as they are the watershed years People" agitation crusades. and 5, 1967, delegates and repre- Aisha Sanni Shittu.
DXWKRU:ULWWHQZLWKVXFKEULOOLDQW
of my journey in life so far. I fully Shred of Fear, on the other hand, VHQWDWLYHVIURPERWKWKH)HGHUDO
simplicity, one is taken on a journey
HPEUDFHWKHHPRWLRQVWKH\HYRNH is far from those. Shred is not a *RYHUQPHQWRI1LJHULDDQGWKH
of the changes in life in a time of
withnoapologiesforwhatthechild political written handout. It is not (DVWHUQ5HJLRQOHGE\/LHXWHQDQW
war by the author. A must-read.
UHPHPEHUVµ a children’s bedtime storybook. Colonel Emeka Ojukwu, met in
+LJKO\UHFRPPHQGHGµ
7KHVWRU\RIWKH%LDIUDQ:DULV It is a masterful rendition of the Aburi, Ghana, to agree on what is
One remarkable aspect of this
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book is the author’s representation
URXQGLQJWKLVEORRG\PD\KHPKDYH speculations. The author, a child This meeting at Aburi was sup-
of Aba, the great Enyimba city,
not been told, and unfortunately, DWWKHWLPHFUHDWLYHO\FDSWXUHVD posed to be the last opportunity for
which he describes as "one of those
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quintessentially colonial Nigerian
WHFKQRORJLFDOLQQRYDWLRQKDVQRW three-year hellish journey toward WRSUHYHQWFLYLOZDU
towns with all the hallmarks of a
made telling the story of the great WKHXQIXOÀOOHGGUHDPRIDSURPLVLQJ
place with plenty of growth poten-
Biafran journey any easier. For nation. Indeed, from beginning to ‡2JER 3K' LV RQ WKH (GLWR-
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DQGSXEOLFDWLRQVKDYHSHUYDGHG SHUVSHFWLYHWKHYHU\LQWHUHVWLQJ
ofAba," the author paints a realistic 1HZV+HLVDOVRWKH3XEOLVKHURI
theinternetwithGoogle-generated DQGUHODWLYHO\XQNQRZQHYHQWV
picture of what happened inside WKH*XDUGLDQ1HZV-RXUQDOLVPDQG
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Biafra during the early stages of the 57)3URIHVVRU
THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ‡JANUARY 22, 2023 63

CICERO
Editor: Ejiofor Alike
SMS: 08066066268 email:[Link]@[Link]

IN THE ARENA

Courting Presidency and Gagging the Press

The recent forceful prevention of an ARISE NEWS Channel cameraman from covering a dialogue
between the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress, Bola Tinubu, and members of
the Nigerian Economic Summit Group ahead of a crucial general election signals danger both for the
media and Nigeria’s fledgling democracy, Louis Achi writes

I
n Nigeria, the media is often criticised - accused of trespass- He also noted that it was the duty of the media to scrutinise and
ing on personal privacy and hunting witches, which exist only hold accountable public office holders and institutions as well as
in its own imagination. But then, the traditional and new me- public figures, including political parties and candidates seeking
dia have been like this for centuries in many countries all over public office, and to ensure that the members of the public have as
the world. Nigeria is not different. much information as possible about them, their programmes and
All that is new is that technology has given them a bigger their track records in and out of office.
bite. But it is hard to see how a democratic society can fully “The media cannot properly play their role in the electoral process
flourish without a free media. Some of the demons it pursues and if they are prevented from having access to public events which
the devils it reveals deserve their fate. If it tramples upon privacy, form part of the process,” he said, noting that anyone unwilling to
the result is often the truth. It holds the ring between vested politi- be subjected to scrutiny by the media has no business seeking pub-
cal interest and the common public good. It is the Fourth Estate. lic office.
It is against this backdrop that the unseemly ruckus that occurred It was contrary to the code of journalism practice in Nigeria and
penultimate Friday in Abuja when the Presidential Campaign Coun- everywhere else in the world that institutions or individuals who
cil’s (PCC of the All Progressives Congress (APC)) forcefully pre- were being held accountable should be the ones to determine the
vented an ARISE NEWS Channel cameraman from covering a dia- media organisations or journalists that are allowed to hold them to
logue session between the APC’s presidential candidate, Senator account, he stressed, insisting that journalists are entitled to and
Bola Tinubu and members of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group should be given the fullest access to all electoral events, and that
(NESG) can be best assessed. Tinubu had unfolded his economic such access should be non-discriminatory.
plan before the organised private sector under the aegis of NESG. Effective media interface between the political parties, govern-
Of course, angry reactions have trailed this deliberate attempt to ment and the public is especially important in countries in transi-
gag the media. tion like Nigeria, where major changes in all aspects of life have left
In its studied reaction, the Media Rights Agenda (MRA) held that the citizenry uncertain about the incoming political leadership and
“the APC-PCC’s blatant disregard for the rights of a journalist per- their often foggy agenda. This is such a period.
forming a constitutionally-protected function at a time when the To reach large numbers of the population, political parties and
party was still seeking to persuade Nigerians to vote its candidate governments everywhere rely heavily on the media. The media
into the highest office in the land, portends grave dangers for the filters and analyses information, making these available to the
media should that candidate prevail in the elections.” citizens, thus enabling them to take informed decisions. Political
In a statement issued in Lagos, last week, MRA’s Programme Direc- parties need to learn to tolerate and appreciate the role of an inde-
tor, Mr. Ayode Longe, stressed that the action of the party’s PCC that pendent media in the democratic process as an essential supplier of
was made public by its Director of Media Publicity, Bayo Onanuga, feedback as well as a communication channel.
was bizarre, highhanded and a violation of the rights of the media. According to the Texan economist and philosopher, Clarence E.
Tinubu
Apparently unaware of the potential backlash, Onanuga had Ayres, the essence of democracy is the idea that each citizen has a
claimed on Twitter that the ARISE cameraman was caught, alleg- attacks on the media houses which dared to question why the APC voice, actualised in the right to vote, and when these diverse voices
edly clandestinely live-streaming Tinubu’s campaign event without presidential candidate should come forward to tell Nigerians how come together a majority rule is formed. But democracy is not just
authorisation and had accused him of being “on espionage mission.” he hope the salvage the country if elected president. the fact that the majority rules, it is the process of inquiry by which
But Longe expressed outrage at the allegation and the justifica- This perhaps was what further clearly miffed Longe when he said consensus is formed.
tion for the unconstitutional action, describing it as ridiculous and he found it “particularly bewildering because Mr. Onanuga, who is- Former US Secretary of State, Condeleza Rice, at Edward R. Mur-
baffling. sued the justification and made the accusation of espionage, spent row Journalism Programme at the State Department, keyed into
According to Longe, “What authorisation does the journalist re- a significant portion of his career as a professional journalist en- the foregoing distinctions when she held that, “There is no more
quire to perform his professional duty of covering a political cam- gaged in what came to be known as guerrilla journalism, for which important pillar of democracy than a free and active press,” what
paign event? How can a purely journalistic act by a cameraman from he and the two media outlets, TheNews and Tempo magazines, American “founding father” Thomas Jefferson called “the fourth
a television station filming a public political campaign event and where he served as an editor, were widely applauded by people like estate.”
beaming it live to a public audience be characterised as espionage? Senator Bola Tinubu. What Jefferson meant, according to Rice, was that without a free
“Should the cameraman have first made a public announcement “It is the worst form of irony that he is now attempting to condemn and active press, “the people could not be certain that their views
that he is covering the event so as not to be accused of doing so a journalist engaged in his professional pursuit as having commit- would be known to their leaders and that their leaders’ views would
clandestinely?” he queried. ted a capital offence.” be known to them.” A free and independent media is one of democ-
It was not the first time the APC-PCC would attempt to gag the Further according to the MRA’s Programme Director, “If this atti- racy’s most important institutions.
media. At the peak of calls for presidential candidates to attended tude is indicative of the vision of the party or its presidential can- Clearly, gagging the media, either by governments or political par-
town hall meetings, the spokesmen of the PCC had cleverly exclud- didate on the role of the media in the democratic process, then we ties aspiring to rule, is a form of dictatorship that no serious democ-
ed their principal, Senator Bola Tinubu. They defended and resisted shudder to think of what the future holds for journalists and the racy should accommodate. A deep democracy functions in no small
it vehemently. Nothing to contrary made them see reason why Ti- media community should this attitude and mentality be brought part through an informed and engaged [Link] media helps to
nubu should attend any town hall meeting. This was followed by into the highest political office in Nigeria.” shape this through open and responsible journalism.

P O L I T I CA L N OT E S
Lalong’s Turn for Blunders at APC Rally
That some leaders of the ruling All Pro- do good on the other side, we’ll do good on called the attention of Governor Abdulrah-
gressives Congress (APC) have lost every this side. That is Emi Lokan. Is that not Emi man Abdulrazaq and muttered something
sense of direction on their electioneering has Lokan?”, he asked party supporters. Asiwaju to him.
become a subject of debates. Everywhere has done good. It is his turn, it is your turn, Rather than telling Nigerians how they will
they go to it is one form of blunder or the it is our turn. If you chop alone, you will die fix the non-existent power, tackle insecu-
other. Another case in point was when at alone. He didn’t chop alone; so, it is his turn rity, the country’s rising debt profile, poor
the party’s presidential campaign rally in to chop. And that is why Emi Lokan is very healthcare, education and other myriad of
Ilorin, Kwara State, last Tuesday, the Direc- important”, the governor said. challenges confronting the country, all some
tor General of the Presidential Campaign Not many Nigerians were shocked at the of the party’s leaders are concerned about
Council and Plateau State Governor, Simon comments by Lalong at a campaign rally. are bizarre and mundane things.
Lalong, appealed to Nigerians to allow Tinubu The Plateau State governor’s comments In several reactions, Nigerians say Lalong’s
to become the next President of Nigeria were not only a blunder, but complete bizarre speech suggests the APC was seeking
because it was his turn to chop (slang for eat). embarrassment. to retain the presidency for pecuniary gains.
He said Tinubu has done good for the party Little wonder the comments unsettled the “At this point, the choice is yours. It will
and deserves a regard (chop), adding that party’s vice presidential candidate, Senator be a national disgrace if this set of people
if you chop alone, you will die alone. Kashim Shettima, who was standing near is handed over the affairs of this nation”,
Lalong “If you do me good, I’ll do you good. If you Lalong. The former Borno State governor @SammyKing tweeted.
64 THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ‡JANUARY 22, 2023

BRIEFINGNOTES
Obaseki’s Exemplary Leadership
on Edo Train Station Attack
The prompt rescue of all the train passengers abducted by armed herdsmen in Igueben Train Station in Edo
State by security agencies without the usual payment of ransom was a demonstration of the efficiency of a
resilient security system in the state. Ejiofor Alike writes that other governors should emulate this high level of
commitment and transparency demonstrated by the Governor Godwin Obaseki’s administration in coordinating
the rescue operation and stop abandoning kidnap victims and their relations to pay ransom to bandits

W
hen armed herdsmen invaded government’s decision to discourage open grazing
the Igueben Train Station by herders in their forests.
on Saturday, January 7 and “I have instructed that those traditional rulers
abducted over 30 people, an should be investigated and anyone found to
angry Edo State Governor, Mr. be harbouring the herders will have questions
Godwin Obaseki, had made to answer because that was what led to this
a strong commitment to ensure that security incident. Communities that obeyed don’t have
agencies rescue all the victims unhurt. such incidents in their domain.”
The state government had quickly mobilised Asked if ransom was paid to secure the release
soldiers, operatives of the Department of State of the victims, Obaseki said: “No money was paid
Services (DSS), police personnel and vigilantes for their release as our special forces engaged in
to track the abductors. the joint operation and overpowered the kidnappers
The state police command had in a statement, and rescued 12 persons and the kidnappers ran
said the kidnappers were herdsmen armed with away with two victims.”
AK-47 rifles. “We are happy as a state and people that we
Narrating the incident, the state Commis- have been able to secure the release of 12 of
sioner for Communication and Orientation, those kidnapped at the Igueben Train Station over
Chris Nehikhare, had disclosed that one of the a week ago. It has been a very difficult situation
abducted victims escaped at 8.15pm on the same as the might, will and security system we put in
day of the incident, adding that 31 others were place in Edo State have been tested. We are glad
still with their captors. the system is resilient,” he said.
Nehikhare stated that the abductors came with On his part, the state Commissioner of Police,
cars but took their victims into the bush on foot. Dankwara, said the kidnappers operated at the
“The police, working with the vigilante and Ugboha and Udo forests where special security
hunters, started combing the bush almost im- forces laid ambush for them for over a week.
mediately and one suspect has been arrested He noted that as the kidnappers were trying
and he is helping the police in their investigation. to move their victims around that location, they
“The Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu visited were intercepted and were only able to escape
the scene of the incident and we are sure that with two other victims.
with a suspect apprehended, the investigation Obaseki He added: “We are working to ensure those
will lead to the arrest of others and the rescue two are released. We have arrested some persons
of the victims. who are a syndicate of this kidnapping gang. They
“The state government commends the police that nothing would be left to chance. passengers had been rescued unhurt at Udo are in our custody. Initially, we rescued 10, with
for their prompt response while we also praise “A large portion of the forest is being combed. Forest in Ughboa. this 12 rescued we have just two left with the
the vigilantes and hunters who took part in the We call on Edo people to be vigilant. If you see The state Commissioner of Police, Mohammed kidnappers. We assure Edo people that we will
bush combing operation. We hope this will be the something, say something,” Nekhihare said. Dankwara, also released the names of the rescued rescue them.”
last time an occurrence like this will happen in the He also said: “Our Governor, Mr. Godwin victims. The state government matched its words with
state,’’ the commissioner reportedly explained. Obaseki, spoke with me this morning to share Dankwara said the operation had brought to actions as it last Wednesday confirmed the rescue
On his part, the Onogie of Igueben and Okaigun the latest information on the efforts being made 18 the number of victims rescued. of the remaining two passengers and the arrest
of Esanland, Ehizojie Eluojierior I, also confirmed by the military, police and personnel drawn from The sustained efforts of the security agencies of two village chiefs in connection with the train
the rescue efforts. other security agencies, including the vigilante also recorded another success last Sunday when attack.
He reportedly said, “the police, vigilantes, and and hunters who know the bushes like their Nehikhare disclosed that 12 of the remaining Nehikhare disclosed that seven other suspects
the hunters are working together on the issue. backyards to ensure the kidnapped passengers 14 kidnapped victims had been rescued. had also been arrested in connection with the
They combed the bush till midnight on Saturday are released soon. Obaseki later visited the 12 rescued victims incident.
and resumed on Sunday morning.” “The governor has provided the needed logistic at the Police Cottage Hospital in GRA, Benin City, The Edo State Government and the security
With the strong determination of the state support to the various security agencies that are where they had been taken for medical attention. agencies in the state have set a standard, which
government and the security agencies to rescue combing the bushes, small settlements, forests He assured the families of the two remaining other governors should emulate. The state govern-
the victims, it was not surprising that six persons and everywhere around the place of the incident abductees that he would deploy the full apparatus ment, DSS, police, army and the local security outfits
were rescued just two days after the incident to smoke out the kidnappers. of the state to ensure their release. have demonstrated that the security architecture
even as the kidnappers had reportedly made “Governor Obaseki has mandated his deputy, The governor said information at his disposal in the state is resilient. Other state governors
contact with some families of the victims and Philip Shaibu, to coordinate the operation. The indicted some traditional rulers in the area who should muster the political will to set up similar
demanded N20 million for each of them. governor urged citizens to remain calm and pass disobeyed government’s directives against open security structures and implement the anti-open
Nekhihare, while giving an update on the efforts any useful information to his office or the security grazing as they still harboured herders in their grazing laws like Obaseki. Governors should also
by government and security agencies, appealed agencies,” he added. communities. not abandon the relations of kidnap victims to
to the Edo residents to be vigilant, adding that, Also one week after the incident, the state “We have information that some traditional pay ransom. Payment of ransom is the incentive
“Operation Bush Combing” was still on going, and police command disclosed that 12 more abducted rulers in that area do not obey and respect the that encourages abductions in the country.

NOTES FOR FILE

When Uzodimma Plays Politics with Insecurity
Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State recently accused Ugochinyere of being the architect of his vital information with security agencies to track
told Nigerians that as the Chief Security Officer [Link] the gunmen.
(CSO) of the state, he knows what others do not meetings between Ugochinyere and the gunmen. Reacting to the governor’s comments, the
know about the insecurity ravaging the state. The governor alleged that the agreement was Publicity Secretary of the PDP in Imo State,
In his reaction to the recent attack on the home of that elections would not hold in the South-east, Collins Opurozor had reportedly said: “What this
thespokespersonfortheCoalitionofUnitedPolitical adding that Ugochinyere violated the agreement self-confessionhasestablishedisthatUzodimma
Parties (CUPP), Ikenga Ugochinyere, the Imo State by running for the election. was aware of the attack even before it was carried
governor was quoted in the media as saying that Many believe the shocking revelation was an out. He knew how it was conceived, planned and
Ugochinyere was attacked by gunmen because he indication that Uzodimma as the CSO knows executed. By his admission, Uzodimma knows
violated the agreement he had with them that there something about the activities of the unknown who the so-called unknown gunmen are. He
should be no election in the South-east. gunmen ravaging the state. knows where and how they met. He is privy to
Unknown gunmen had stormed the residence What the Imo State governor did not reveal is their agreements, documents and action plan.
of Ugochinyere, who is also the PDP candidate for the reason behind his failure to tackle the gunmen. So, what is unknown about the gunmen if the
Ideato Federal Constituency, and shot about three Having allegedly admitted that he was privy to the governor could boast of knowing everything
persons dead. meeting between Ugochinyere and the gunmen, about them, including their meetings and their
Uzodimma Butreactingtothecarnage,Uzodimmareportedly he should tell Nigerians why he did not share such resolutions?” he queried.
THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ‡JANUARY 22, 2023 65

CICERO/ISSUES

When IG’s Retirement is in Abeyance

The uncertainty surrounding the fate of the Inspector-General of Police, Usman Alkali Baba, who is
due for retirement in March, was clarified last week by the Minister of Police Affairs, Mohammed
Dingyadi, writes Kingsley Nweze

Dingyadi Baba

T
he Minister of Police Affairs, Moham- missioners of Police (CPs) five Deputy Commissioners Specifically, Section 18(8) of the new Act states: monitoring of the elections may be affected if such
med Dingyadi, last week stirred the of Police (DCPs), about 30 Assistant Commissioners “Every police officer shall, on recruitment or appoint- numbers are allowed to go at this crucial period of
hornet’s nest when he disclosed that of Police (ACPs), over 35 Chief Superintendents of ment, serve in the Nigeria Police Force for 35 years the elections. It is not possible to fill the vacuum
the Inspector General of Police (IG) Police (CSPs), 47 Superintendents of Police (SPs), or until the age of 60 years, whichever is earlier.” immediately.”
Usman Alkali Baba would not be 55 Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSPs) and By law, the police chief is appointed by the A commissioner at the PSC, who declined to
retiring midway into the general 70 Assistant Superintendents of Police (ASPs) in president on the “advice” of the Police Council. be named, said as a responsible body made up of
election, disclosing that the police the first quarter of 2023. The council is chaired by the president and has experienced people, the PSC would not be against
boss already has an appointment letter, extending Findings by THISDAY showed that the retire- the 36 state governors, Chairman of the Police extension of the service period of IG and the officers
his term in office. ment of such a number of police officers in one Service Commission (PSC) and the IG as members. concerned.
Dingyadi, who briefed State House Correspondents fell swoop at a period of elections, has become But even when the Police Act pegs the retirement “If the IG feels that the large number of the
after the first Federal Executive Council (FEC) a serious cause for concern for the authorities, age of police officers at 60 years of age or 35 years officers due for retirement will affect effective
meeting of 2023, explained the Police Act 2020 especially the Independent National Electoral of service, another section also pegs the tenure of monitoring of the elections, let him write to the
has changed the rules for an IG’s retirement. Commission (INEC). the IG as four years. President for their extension. For the IGP, it is the
There have been speculations lately that the “There are fears over security during the general For instance, Section 7 subsection 2 of the Act Presidency that will determine his fate. We (PSC)
police chief, who will clock 60 years on March 1, election as the full compliments of police personnel are provides that: “The person to be appointed as Inspec- have no objection to whatever that would be done
2023, may not honour the rule that mandates public needed nationwide in February when the presidential tor General of Police shall be a Senior Police Officer to maintain stability and security, “ he said.
servants to go on retirement at 60 due to the general and National Assembly elections hold as well as not below the rank of Assistant Inspector General A security expert said retirement is statutory in
election that will be ongoing at that period. March, when the governorship and state Houses of Police with the requisite academic qualification the police, military and civil service generally and
Responding to a question from a journalist on of Assembly election will take place,” a source said. of not less than a first degree or its equivalent in should not cause any anxiety.
whether or not the IG would be retiring as the law It was gathered that before IG’s statutory retire- addition to professional or management experience.” “The authorities know what to do, in the best
provides, Dingyadi said: “I don’t know where you got ment in March, three DIGs are expected to leave the Many analysts have argued that the clause that interest of the country. Therefore, there should
your record but let me say that by the provision force this month as they reach their retirement age. pegs the tenure of the IG for four years after he not be cause for alarm,” he said.
of the Police Act 2020, the IG is now supposed to Sources in the police revealed that among those has attained 60 years of age or 35 years of service Recall that Baba’s predecessor, Mohammed Adamu,
have a kind of four-year period and Mr. President expected to retire are Mobile Squadron Commander contradicts the public officers’ rule and Section 18(8) also faced a similar issue prior to his leaving office.
has already given him a letter of appointment in and Area Commanders, and Divisional Police Officers of the Police Act. But President Buhari extended Adamu’s tenure by
that regard. So the issue of IG going out during (DPOs). Usually, such police officers get strategic A former IG said the officers could get an extension three months after he reached the mandatory 35
this election period does not arise.” postings during elections owing to their critical in the circumstance. According to him, the officers years in service in February 2021.
Before Dingyadi’s clarification, there were intrigues positions, it was gathered. due for retirement should be given three months The matter was subsequently taken before the
within the police high command and the corridors When contacted on the expected mass retirement extension for effective monitoring of the elections. Federal High Court in Abuja, and the court affirmed
of power in Abuja in the foggy race for the police in the police, an official of INEC, who does not want The former IG who did not want to be mentioned, Buhari’s decision on the grounds that the constitution
top job. his name in print, said the commission was focusing said: “It is not easy to immediately fill their vacuum. gives the president the power to appoint the IG.
Baba will turn 60 on March 1, 2023, four days on how to organise credible elections while leaving Already, INEC and some people are saying that due According to the court, by implication of the
after the presidential election and 10 days before such matters as security to be handled by those to insecurity the elections may not hold. In internal powers of appointment, the president can extend the
the governorship elections scheduled for February concerned. security, the police are the bedrock, the first to be tenure of an IG who is due for retirement, pending
25 and March 11, respectively. On whether he was afraid that mass retirement called upon. And the elections involve internal security.” consultation with the police council on the approval
According to Baba’s profile, he was born in 1963 in the police may affect election security, he said: Justifying his recommendation for extension, he of a substantive replacement.
and commissioned into the police on March 15, “I should think that the federal government knows said: “The Civil Service Rules say a civil servant is But a security expert, who spoke to THISDAY,
1988, as a Cadet Assistant Superintendent of what to do.” due for retirement after serving 35 years or after argued that any tenure extension given to Baba
Police. He will, therefore, be due for retirement While it was not clear what the Police Service attaining 60 years of age, but the president has the would further confirm the allegations of favourtism
on March 1, since the mandatory age to leave Commission (PSC) would recommend to President prerogative to extend anybody’s tenure.” and nepotism levelled against the President Buhari’s
for officials to leave public service is 60 years or Buhari, regarding the mass retirement of the IG A retired DIG from the North, who pleaded government since he took over the affairs of the
after 35 years in service. and others at this critical time, some retired police anonymity, said it would be the first time such a large country in 2015.
President Muhammadu Buhari appointed the then officers said the option of service extension till after number of police officers would go on retirement at The analyst, who did not want his name mentioned
DIG Baba as the acting Inspector General of Police the elections could be explored. the same period, which makes it imperative that “at in print for security reasons, said: “Why is it that it is
on April 6, 2021. The Police Council confirmed him Just like in civil service, where the retirement age such a critical period, as during national elections, only northerners that Buhari always extends their
as the substantive IG on June 2021. for public service officials is 60 years or after 35 the president could grant an extension. It is not tenures? He did the same thing to the former IG,
Recall that there had been concerns over the years in service whichever comes first, the Police about the people who are to retire, but for national Mohammed Adamu. What he is doing is setting a
expected retirement of the IG Baba, as well as three Act, signed by President Buhari recently, also pegs security. We need all the policemen to be around very dangerous precedent. We hope that whenever a
Deputy Inspectors General of Police (DIGs), many the retirement age of police officers at 60 years during elections,” he said. southerner mounts the position in future, successive
Assistant Inspectors General of Police (AIGs), 10 Com- of age or 35 years of service. A retired AIG, on his part, said: “I fear that effective governments will do the same thing to the person.”
 66 THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ‡JANUARY 22, 2023

CICERO/ISSUE

Matching CJN’s Tough

Talks with Actions
Since his assumption of office, the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, has
continued to talk tough against the flagrant violations of the rule of law in the country. Alex
Enumah writes that it’s high time the CJN matched his tough stance with actions

J
ustice Olukayode Ariwoola
was on October 12, 2022 any act of recklessness, abuse of
sworn in as substantive Chief power and public trust”.
Justice of Nigeria (CJN). His He advised judges to see their
sudden elevation to the office membership of the tribunals as a rare
was due to the voluntary re- privilege for which they must give a
tirement of then CJN, Justice good account of themselves.
Ibrahim Muhammad, who relinquished “Your Lordships should count
the office on health grounds. yourselves worthy to be so entrusted
He was first appointed in acting with this humongous responsibility of
capacity on June 27, 2022, pending deciding the fate of those that would
his confirmation by the Senate. But be contesting elections into various
since his appointment as substantive political offices in the country in 2023.
CJN, Justice Ariwoola has however, “Though judicial officers are not
not hidden his intention to redeem the known to possess some supernatural
battered image of the judiciary. powers to perform wonders, I can con-
Since the beginning of the admin- fidently assure you that the society in
istration of President Muhammadu which you operate will certainly expect
Buhari, when operatives of the Depart- the impossible from you as members
ment of State Services (DSS) invaded of Election Petitions Tribunals”, the CJN
the homes of some judicial officers, noted.
including a then serving Justice of He explained that aside the expecta-
the Supreme Court, the late Justice tions of the public, the judges should
Sylvester Ngwuta in October 2016, the prepare themselves for all sorts of
integrity of the judiciary has remained verbal assault and uncomplimentary
under scrutiny. Only last year, a group remarks from some aggrieved politi-
of persons purported to be from a cians and their supporters but must
special committee under the Federal remain steadfast and focused.
Ministry of Justice also invaded the “Trust is a burden and you must dis-
residence of the then serving Justice charge it with utmost sincerity, honesty
of the Supreme Court, Justice Mary and transparency, because conscience
Peter-Odili (rtd) in another botched is an open wound healed only by truth.
operation. You must rise and operate above every
Apart from the invasion of the sentiment that might play out in the
homes of judicial officers, courts are course of your adjudication in the
also being desecrated especially by various tribunals.
both security operatives and thugs “There is no doubt that temptations,
across the country. A team of DSS tribulations, intimidations and even
personnel had also invaded a Federal sheer blackmails may be unleashed
High Court in Abuja in a bid to re-arrest on you but as thoroughbred judicial
the convener of #RevolutionNow, Mr. officers, you must guide your loins to
Omoyele Sowore, shortly after he was rise above them and do what will earn
granted bail. you accolades from your creator and
However, Ariwoola shortly after also from the court of public opinions”,
assuming office has been talking tough he added.
and sending out warnings to relevant Ariwoola’s tough stance against the
quarters that his administration would violation of the rule of law and acts
not hesitate to wield the big stick of misconduct by judicial officers has
both within the judiciary and outside rekindled hope in the Nigerian judiciary.
especially against those who flagrantly To restore the people’s full
violate the rule of law. confidence in the judiciary, the CJN
Speaking recently at a Conference should match his words with actions.
of Attorneys General in Abuja, the CJN He should ensure that judicial officers
again warned politicians and others Ariwoola no longer look helpless in the face
who are in the habit of disregarding the of assaults by the other arms of the
rule of law that it would no longer be government.
business as usual under his watch. the security agencies in the country, the judiciary in their respective Security operatives and the heads
Ariwoola warned that the silence of the CJN said: “No one in this country states through the manner they of security agencies that violate the
the judiciary must not be mistaken for is permitted under any guise to take conduct their affairs. orders of the courts should be commit-
weakness or vulnerability. While stating the law into his or her hands simply While he warned them that ted to prison without being given any
that the rule of law has been assailed because he or she has the guns to “oppression and suppression soft landing. Ariwoola should ensure
from all fronts, especially by those who wield”. of perceived enemies must not that nobody is above the law, no matter
are supposed to uphold and guard it Some police officers had in two have a bearing on your conduct,” the number of troops or armed secu-
jealously, the CJN who was represented separate incidents in December last he added that, “judicial officers rity operatives the person commands.
by a Justice of the Supreme Court, year shot dead two Nigerians, including must not suffer intimidation and The CJN should make sure that
Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, lamented a Lagos-based legal practitioner, Mrs. chastisement and chief justices judges make pronouncements that
that judicial officers and court facilities Bolanle Raheem, who was said to be must not go cap -in-hand to beg instill confidence in the judiciary.
have been variously attacked, mo- pregnant with twins. for funds to run their courts”. The National Judicial Council (NJC)
lested, harassed and desecrated across In an apparent reference to such Ariwoola urged all participants under the chairmanship of Ariwoola,
the country. incidents, Ariwoola advised that in their various capacities to in late last year set up a probe panel
“I wish to let whoever cares to listen the earlier judicial officers and the start making a comprehensive to investigate 15 judges of various
to know that nobody, no matter his or courts are respected the better for all approach to the effective and High Courts. While Nigerians await the
her position in society, should mistake Nigerians. seamless administration of outcome of the probe, it will be really
our golden silence for weakness or To restore the sanctity of the courts criminal justice and the imple- interesting to see the CJN match words
vulnerability. and its officers, the CJN charged mentation of the rule of law. with actions by not only punishing
“The judiciary under my watch will stakeholders in the justice sector to The CJN had at a recent judicial officers who has breached their
not sit by the sidelines to watch the ensure fairness, equity and the rule of capacity-building workshop and oath of office or found to have engaged
temple of justice and ministers of law prevail at all times. formal inauguration of members in corrupt practices but also endeavour
justice being flagrantly chastised and He specifically called on the attor- of the 2023 Election Petition to apply the full weight of the law
whipped into silence,” he explained. neys-general in the country to begin to Tribunals, also warned that his against public officers violating the rule
In what seemed to be directed at live up to their callings by repositioning administration “will not condone of law, no matter how highly placed.
THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ‡JANAURY 22, 2023 67

INTERNATIONAL
From Pope Benedict XVI to Jacinda Ardern: The
Challenge of Poor Health versus National Leadership

P
ope Benedict XVI was a former Head of the Catholic the ill-health of any leader can only be for a temporary time.
Church worldwide, a Pope Emeritus who lived for 95
years(1927-2022)beforehepassedawayinamonastery VIE The ideal thing is to have an open door policy regarding the health
status of all leaders for the purposes of good leadership. Hiding one’s
in the Vatican on Saturday, 31st December, 2022. In
other words, he was an old man before he passed
INTERNATIONALE disease or ailment is self-deceit. Self-deceit is crime against oneself.
Whoever engages in self-deceit can never be trusted of capability to tell
on. His passing on at old age was very significant in others the truth. Self-deceit is unpatriotic and can be very misleading
terms of what he stood for before his death. He was with in political governance.
specially recognised for being the first Catholic pontiff in about 600 For instance, Ghanaian President, Dr John Evans Atta, died in office
years to resign his position as Pope. He did not seek to die in office.
He recognised his failing health and incapacity to carry the heavy Bola A. Akinterinwa on July 22, 2012. Before his death he had not been well and unable to
fully execute his duties for some time. By the time he knew that his illness
burden of leadership. Telephone : 0807-688-2846 was to become an impediment to good performance, why should he
His successor, Pope Francis, said of him at the Saint Peter’s Basilica, e-mail: bolyttag@[Link] not resign? African leaders hardly accept to leave office even at the
that Pope Benedict XVI was a‘noble person, so kind and we feel such end of their electoral mandate. They are sit tight presidents. In fact,
gratitude in our hearts, gratitude to God for giving him to the Church, the Brookings institution has revealed a list of 19 countries that have
andtotheworld.’Moreimportant,PopeFrancisalsoexpressed‘gratitude lost a sitting president or Head of State: Algeria, Angola, Botswana,
to him for all the good he accomplished and above all for his witness Burkina Faso, the Central African Republic, Comoros, Côte d’Ivoire,
of faith and prayer, especially in these last years.’This is one legacy for Egypt, Gabon, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea Bissau, Kenya, Liberia, Malawi,
which he would always be remembered. But why resign from office? Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria and Zambia. With Gabon, Guinea and
He had been contemplating resigning since 2002. Nigeria having lost each two sitting presidents, the total number of
Jacinda Ardern was born on 26th July, 1980. She became the Prime leaders who have died in office is 22.
Minister of New Zealand and the Leader of the Labour Party in 2017. What is of concern here is the Brookings institution’s observation
She was elected at the age of 37 years and was therefore adjudged that‘many African governments adamantly conceal their ailing leader’s
as the youngest female Head of Government. She has faced several health status. In fact, in some African countries, discussions of a leader’s
challenges which partly explain her decision to resign with effect from health are considered as criminal offences punishable by death.’And
7th February [Link] challenges included the COVID-19 pandemic, more significantly,‘the phenomenon of concealing a leader’s health
terrorist attacks on two mosques in Christchurch,White Island volcanic is not unique to Africa: US presidents Kennedy, Reagan, and Franklin
eruption in Napier, and political challenges. Prime Minister Ardern did Roosevelt, as well as French president François Mitterrand, all concealed
not principally announce her resignation because of these challenges illnesses while in power. However none of these men died in power as
but mainly because of self-recognition of incapacity and incapability a result of ill-health’(vide [Link],“The Health of African leaders:
to carry the burden of the challenges, that is, the inability to deliver A call for more transparency, Tuesday, August 7, 2012”, by Mwangi S.
the mandate she swore to execute. Kimenyi and Vera Songwe). As shown above, if African and American
Put differently, the issue of poor health as a critical challenge to leaders do conceal their illness, how do we explain the fact that the
performance of official duties, prompted Pope XVI to opt to resign. It American leaders do not die in office, but African leaders do die in
is noteworthy that Pope Francis, his successor was scheduled to pay office? Why should it be so?
official visit from January 31st to February 5th, 2023 to the Democratic While Pope Benedict XVI openly told the world about his failing
Republic of Congo and South Sudan following his inability to travel health and the need to take a rest and address his medical fatigue,
as earlier scheduled. As noted by Mercedes de la Torre, a Mexican Pope Benedict XVI African leaders not only often take the bad end of the stick, but also
journalist based in Rome and reporting on theVatican since 2006,‘the take sanctions against whoever ordinarily talks about their ill health. In
Holy Father intended‘to visit the cities of Kinshasa and Goma from July particularly as regards Nigerian leaders. In Africa, and more so in Nigeria, Nigeria,thereisnothingtosuggestthatallthepresidentialcandidatesdo
2nd to 5th and Juba, the capital of South Sudan, from July 5th to 7th it is considered an offence to seek to know the situation of health of not have one medical problem or the other. People, for various reasons,
(2022) but had to postpone the trip for medical reasons.’ a leader. It is seen to be a matter of private life, whereas, the leader is think it is only the All Progressives Congress standard bearer, Senator
In the same vein, for various considerations, the Prime Minister of occupying a public office which requires public accountability and Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who may be sickly. What prevents making a full
New Zealand also announced to resign her position, though quite transparency in political [Link] health situation of political medical report on every presidential candidate a requirement and a
younger a person than Pope XVI. Again, but why? Regardless of the leaders is always of public concern and news in developed countries, condition sine qua non for election eligibility to avoid a midway-term
reasons for resigning, there is no disputing the fact that self-appraisal but the contrary is the case in Nigeria. This is in spite of the fact that medical emergency after election?
of inability in the discharge of official duties is an expression of self- the same leaders fund their medical bills with public funds. In fact, funding is another major issue in the quest to live [Link]
probity, integrity of purpose, non-selfishness and most patriotic way [Link] President Muhammadu Buhari (PMB) was elected in 2015 as President
of ensuring national security, economic growth and development, as and Conversation (IPATC), University of Johannesburg, is pertinent of Nigeria, his state of health was, at best, very poor. He was very fragile.
well as collective happiness. By resigning and paving way for a more here. He noted in his article,“Opinion: Africa’s Sick Presidents,”of June 6, The fragility of his health and old age was ignored by voters. After his
capable hand, more time is not wasted on non-productive political 2017, that“local journalists have often been barred from reporting on election, PMB had to go on medical tourism to the United Kingdom for
[Link] is why the rationales for resignations of Pope XVI and the health of leaders under threat of arrest, while various presidential four months. As explicated by The Guardian editorial of 19 July 2017,
Jacinda Ardern should be comparatively explicated in the context of spokesmen either keep mute or report the leader as being“hale and entitled,‘African leaders and medical tourism,’‘things were never this
Nigeria’s 2023 presidential elections with the ultimate objective of hearty”or“fit and fiddle.”This has led to sometimes farcical situations. bad. It is also true that Africa, especially Nigeria, has very competent
drawing lessons for the future. The editor of a Guinean newspaper was arrested in 2008 for carrying hands that can render that the Lagos University Teaching Hospital
a photo of an ailing president, Lansana Conté, and forced to publish (LUTH) and the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, were once
Incapacity versus National Leadership a different picture of a more, sprightly president. But Conté still died on the top list of health facilities in Africa. As Head of State then, General
In Africa, many people aspire to provide leadership of their countries a week later’(vide [Link]). Yakubu Gowon’s wife had her baby at LUTH. Members of the Saudi
but care less about the situation of their health. Many people even Prof. Adebajo also recalled that ‘since 2008, the leaders of nine Royal family once patronised UCH all the way from that kingdom. Also,
simply slump and die during political campaigns. They simply fail countries –Nigeria (UmaruYar’Adua, pericarditis), Gabon (Omar Bongo, the nation’s teaching hospital have produced first class doctors who
to recognise the situation of their poor health. For instance, there is intestinal cancer), Guinea (Lansana Conté, undisclosed), Guinea Bis- now practises in the United States of America, the United Kingdom and
nothing wrong in seeking to become the president of a country. It is a sau (Bacai Sanha, diabetes), Ghana (John Atta Mills, stroke and throat Saudi Arabia and the Caribbean to mention but a few. Indeed, some
good thing to so desire. In this regard, however, it cannot be sufficient cancer), Malawi (Bingu wa Mutharika, heart attack), Ethiopia (Meles wealthy Nigerians who travelled to Saudi Arabia in the 1980s found
to aspire without having good health to sustain the aspiration. Good Zenawi, undisclosed), Zambia (Levy Mwana, stroke, and Michael Sata, themselves in the care of Nigerian ancestry.’This point of observation is
health undoubtedly enhances ability, capacity and mental alertness undisclosed) - died in office of illness.’ noteworthy:theNigeriandoctorsperceivedbackhomeasincompetent
for nation-building. Poor health cannot. It only undermines ability And true enough, many are the reasons for wanting to die in office. end up being the same extraordinary medical consultants that have
and capacity. It deepens incapacity to act objectively, constructively Most African leaders are fantastically corrupt and [Link] need to attend to the ailments imported from Nigeria.
and expeditiously. to remain in power to be protected under the rule of immunity from In this regard, if the African leaders are patriotic enough, and are
Additionally, it cannot be sufficient to be elected and not know when prosecution. Some of them want to enjoy state burial while some of especially building necessary health infrastructure, there would not
one’s body is weakening and to decide when to call it quit. Without them need state funding for medical cover for their general family. have been too much of gaspillage in medical tourism. As Nyasha K.
doubt, Pope Benedict XVI’s case of poor health as a reason to resign his Whatever is the case, what the leaders are hiding eventually kill them Mutizwa of the Africa News wrote on 3rd October, 2019,‘in Uganda,
position as Head of the Catholic Church is a relevant case in point. His and information on the cause of their death is generally revealed in the funds spent to treat top government officials abroad every year
case raises many controversial issues in Nigeria’s electoral politics and their post-mortem reports. Consequently, hiding information about could build ten hospitals. Not only do the leaders travel with elaborate
entourages,[Link],

“
the cost of parking Buhari’s plane during his spell in London in 2017
From the foregoing, there is no disputing the fact that incapacity is necessarily a negation is estimated at £360,000 – equivalent to 0.07% of Nigeria’s budget
of any quest to provide national leadership. In the same vein, the general debates held allocation for health in that same year.’ It is against this background
at the level of the presidential candidates in Nigeria have not clearly shown the extent that the condition of good health should be discussed in the context
of mental health and capacity of each candidate beyond political promises. And perhaps of the 2023 presidential elections and extent of incapacity.
more interestingly, promises are made without articulation of the modus operandi for the
achievement of the promises. All the candidates purport to be healthy and fit, and not 2023 Presidential Elections and Incapacity
having any inhibitions that can prevent the active discharge of their official duties. Agreed, Nigeria’s 2023 presidential elections are likely to be quite interesting
because of its manifestations from various perspectives. Before now,
but sight must not be lost on the need to promote self-evaluation in terms of character and election rigging, ballot box snatching, and vote buying are some of the
self-discipline, because whoever is not honest with himself can never be honest with another hallmarks of the elections. In the 2023 elections, these acts of electoral
person. A person who cannot lead himself right can never rightly lead others . Consequently, indiscipline are expected to be thrown into the garbage of history.
all those who are currently in government and all those currently aspiring to occupy public The introduction of electronic voting, the expected impact of youth
positions should all borrow a leaf from the objectivity of purpose of Jacinda Ardern of
New Zealand and the late Pope Benedict XVI of the Vatican. Lack of good character, loss of
traditional values of self-respect, respect for the elder, pursuit of money by crooked means,
and loss of national consciousness are responsible for today’s armed bandit insurrection and
boko haramism in Nigeria. This is indeed, a manifestation of a Nigerian mental illness that
“ voting and entry into force of the new Electoral Act, etc. all point to
the remoteness of election rigging. However, this hypothesis may not
hold with the purported proven allegations by the opposition parties
that the ruling party, APC, is already planning to rig the elections by
seeking to print its own PVCs. The allegations were made during a
press conference.
must be addressed by all presidential candidates during their campaigns
Read full article online - [Link]
 THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ‡JANUARY 22 , 2023
68

with ChidiAmuta
ENGAGEMENTS e-mail:[Link]@[Link]

Peter Obi and the Northern Challenge

P
oliticians on a nationwide it deserves from the Labour Party in terms
campaign for the top job in of campaign visits. Regrettably therefore,
the land are condemned to in spite of his growing national and inter-
a life of compulsive nomad- national presence and gravitas, Mr. Obi
ism. They are perpetually on remains a distant and vague presence in the
the go, sometimes armed imagination of the average core northerner.
with a compass they alone This should not be so.
can read or no compass at all. Mapping The Obi message of economic and socio
their itinerary can be quite an arduous political emancipation in a new Nigerian order
task. Worse still, matching the marketing where the people become the custodians of
routes of key political candidates in a large state power is a message our people in the
and diverse country like Nigeria can be a core north need to hear. It is not an ethnic
disarming and troublesome undertaking. message nor a religious one. It is not a geo-
Perhaps the best way to mediate between political message either. People in the north
a key politician and his choice of where to do not want to hear the message of Nigeria’s
go hunting for votes is to match the route recovery from the Buhari holocaust through
of his wandering with whatever his core hearsay or through surrogate messengers.
message is. A serious politician is mostly The tumultuous crowds of Sokoto, Katsina,
an itinerant salesman who must go first Kano, Maiduguri are waiting to get a first
to the places where his essential message hand feel of Peter Obi’s personal magnetism.
resonates and can also garner the most The noise of his political difference needs
votes. In a fatally injured polity such as to be relayed first hand. When he embarks
today’s Nigeria, the imperative is for leading on this long awaited campaign tour, his pop
politicians to go to those places where most star charisma should be complemented by a
voters reside and where the nation bleeds clear message delivered to local audiences
the most. Therefore, political campaign preferably through Datti-Ahmed, his very
travels tend to be transactional road shows: brilliant and cosmopolitan deputy. When
politicians go promising to fix everybody’s that hour comes, people who attend those
leaking roof in return for votes. rallies will go home not with empty promises,
Of the major contestants for the presi- paltry cash, branded little bags of rice and
dential podium in this campaign season, boxes of Indonesian noodles. There will be a
Mr. Peter Obi has shown unusual depth of hope that that perhaps after these elections,
independent knowledge of “the trouble their lives will return to normal in a place of
with Nigeria.” Like the rest of his colleagues, peace and calm they used to know.
he has made speeches on the insecurity, On the contrary, both Mr. Bola Tinubu of
the poverty, the criminal corruption and the APC and Atiku Abubakar of the PDP
recklessness in public finance management have made copious visits to the north. Argu-
as well as the disunity and factionalism in ably, these other candidates are on home
the land. Over and above the rest, however, ground campaigning in the north because
he has analytically dissected and linked they find it a convenient catchment area on
these problems while demonstrating an account of their faith. There is nothing in
impatient desire to go at Nigeria’s problems that landscape that Mr. Peter Obi should be
head on from day one in office. His difference afraid of. Wherever he goes, he is on Nigerian
from the rest is in the articulation of a clear soil with a patriotic message and mission.
social democratic vision. Going for him is The prevalent mood of the region or even
his background of impeccable discipline, the entire nation is not one dictated by faith
service delivery and moral astuteness. alone. It is a time of intense collective self
This implies a concerted subversion -assessment of their experience in the hands
of the present endangered social order, of leaders who spoke this familiar language
wobbly state and alienated politics. His of politics as usual in the past.
is a vision of a new Nigeria which neither In response to the politics of ‘turn by turn’
fellow politicians nor the enlightened public the people of the north are now openly
has yet faulted. Of course the other top questioning the last eight years under the
contenders have their own vision of Nigeria Obi Buhari presidency. After all, it has been eight
under them. We cannot call it a name yet years under a fellow northerner; eight years
nor has any of them had the courage of call- under a Muslim leader and eight years under
ing their destination a ‘new’ Nigeria! Only he has not quite paid sufficient attention to Of the 19 states in the region, a former army general. The people of the
Mr. Obi has had the temerity to name his the core north in his campaign road show about half are virtual diarchies in north are asking why their lot should be the
destination. It is a political risk because so far. which armed bandit war lords have litany of woes that now characterize their
it threatens the existing behemoth and In the last eight years of Nigeria under Mr. been blackmailed into power sharing daily lives.
its supporting infrastructure of special Buhari’s APC government, the situation in arrangements with democratically In this nightmare, they have lost their farms
interests and hegemonic warlords. the north has degenerated to a desperate elected governors, sharing author- to bandits, their livestock to sundry rustlers,
But curiously, Mr. Obi’s campaign itinerary level. Of the nation’s population of 130 million ity and sovereign control in murky their wives and daughters to armed rapists
has not quite featured so much of the core multi dimensionally poor people, 65% are exchanges of troves of cash. and bandits. They have lost the freedom
north. He has concentrated instead on the in the north. Of the 20 million out of school These challenges coincide with the to live their simple lives in peace because
south with occasionally forays into the north kids in Nigeria, nearly 18 million are in the objects of Mr. Obi’s national retrieval fear has become their most common daily
central zone. Yet the avalanche of depress- northern states. Since after the abduction message. But he has not quite yet experience. The kids they sent to school
ing statistics that Mr. Obi constantly uses of the 175 Chibok schoolgirls, another 1,500 articulated a comprehensive vision cannot come back except with knowledge
to enliven his campaign presentations are school kids in the north have been abducted for the recovery of north. Yet, this of captivity as hostages in the hands of
abundantly domiciled in the north. From and trucked away from their schools into is where the bulk of our national armed strangers sometimes speaking
all estimates, the north has become an slavery in all forms. A total of 11,336 primary wealth is trapped. All that vast in strange tongues. A whole generation
embodiment of the Nigeria challenge at and secondary schools all in the north have arable land, the numerous solid of young innocent Nigerians will grow up
the present moment. been closed because of the menace of terror- mineral fields, the vast human re- with life long trauma and psychological
Irrespective of our political leanings and ist abductors and kidnappers. Over 40,000 sources waiting to be empowered stress disorder. Even traditional rulers
preferences, no matter where else in Nigeria lives have been lost to terrorist insurgency with skills and knowledge etc. Mr. have been kidnapped for ransom. There
we live and call home and no matter what mostly in the north in the last decade. Of Obi has admittedly spoken briefly is now a consensus throughout the region
deities we worship and which direction we the estimated N680 million that has been about combining Koranic education that their lives need to either be restored
face when we pray, a common reality stares paid as ransom to kidnappers, more than with skills and entrepreneurship to the normalcy they knew before Buhari
us all in the face. The development chal- 60% was spent in the north, a region whose training. He has also expressed a or improved in a new order.
lenges and virtual carnage in the northern economic situation continues to tank by the commitment to better security all Irrespective of the outcome of next
half of Nigeria concerns us all. It is in fact day. Unemployment of youth prevails while over the country, better education, month’s presidential election, Mr. Peter
the most pressing urgency of our national foreign contractors and miners are perennial an agrarian revolution, and general Obi has earned the singular right to be
existence today. And I doubt that we can targets of kidnapping and senseless murder. improvements in health care. None taken seriously in the current campaign
anticipate any sensible political outcome A proliferation of small to medium mili- of these indicates deep enough season. To that extent, his message and
in next month’s election without thinking tary grade weapons ranging from AK- 47s, reflection or a comprehensive stated mission have become national assets
deeply about where the outcome will assorted machine guns, rocket propelled project of modernization on the which need to be shared by all Nigerians. He
place the north. In a certain curious sense, grenades and their launchers has rendered scale of what has taken place in must not however run the risk of allowing his
therefore, we are all northerners now on the region and the rest of the country a virtual parts of the new Middle East. The message to be quarantined away from any
the basis of the national consequences of playground for non state violent actors. In- Obi campaign work group needs to part of the nation. We all are entitled to the
the many troubles we face in the north. stead of learning plumbing, auto mechanics school itself on the instruments of the dividends of Peter Obi disruptive politics. In
Nowhere else is the new order of Obi’s and other artisanal trades, healthy youth have raging contemporary modernization order to change our reality for the better, we
message crying so loudly for its urgent been taught the rudiments of the fabrication in the Islamic and Arab world. must look the Nigerian monster in the face
realization than in what I choose to call of IEDs. Some of the northern states have Measured against its demographic wrestle it to the ground and surmount it for
the nation’s “Northern Hemisphere”. Obi graduated into net ‘exporters’ of armed size and its share of our current a better future. The north is an auspicious
wants to change Nigeria fundamentally by dangerous herdsmen and other unknown national problems, the north has battleground for our collective national
tackling the challenges that bedevil us. But gunmen to other states of the nation. not received the level of attention salvation and renewal.
T H I S DAY, T H E S U N DAY N E W S PA P E R • JANUARY 22, 2023 69

B AC K PAG E C O N T I N UAT I O N
FIVE COMMON ERRORS ABOUT NIGERIA (I)
Once upon a time, Nigeria was the sixth devil in the details. completely. We can reach a compromise on In the pre-Independence Nigeria when Dr
largest producer of oil in the world and By the time you adjust the GDP figures that by saying if Nigeria was well managed, Nnamdi Azikiwe, Sir Ahmadu Bello and
was on list of countries with the largest oil for population, a bigger picture emerges. it would be among the richest countries in Chief Obafemi Awolowo presided over the
reserves. These facts created the impression Nigeria (200 million) has a GDP per head the world — howsoever defined. In GDP, we regions, woe betide you if you didn’t pay
that “Nigeria is extremely rich”. Hence, the of about $2,066. South Africans (56 million) would be rich because we have capacity to your income tax (poll tax) claiming to be
key details often escape our attention. are thrice “richer” — $7,055 per head. For build a very productive economy. In revenue, poor! What happened to us?
How do you measure the wealth of a Egypt (109 million), it is $3,699. In contrast, we would be very rich because the economy Our mindset today is built on the notion
nation? If we want to define our richness the US (331 million) has a GDP per capita would be robust. Even in oil wealth and that Nigeria is rich and its citizens do not
by oil revenue, things still do not add up. In of $63,413; China (1.4 billion), $10,434; and other mineral endowments, we could be far have to bear part of the cost of providing
2021, Saudi Arabia (population: 36 million) Japan (126 million), $39,048. Now, if we richer because the chronic mismanagement and maintaining public services. Businesses
earned $161.7 billion from oil exports; Russia choose the route of gross national income would be wiped out. share most of the tax burden while most
(143 million), $82 billion; and Canada (38 (GNI) per capita using the purchasing power Unfortunately, the prevalent notion that individuals escape the net. This has damaged
million), $74 billion (7.5%). But Nigeria (200 parity (PPP), which measures what a dollar “Nigeria is rich” because of the petrodollars the critical element of state-society intercourse
million) earned $30.6 billion. For context, can buy locally, Nigeria is still not up there, is one of the things holding back our ability in a democracy, where citizens — riding
Kuwait, with 4 million people (less than although figure improves to $5,200. South to become rich. For one, a typical Nigerian on their fiscal contribution to the state
the registered voters in Kaduna state), Africa goes up to $14,340 and Egypt $12,320. does not want to pay cost-reflective tariffs —engage with the government on the
earned $36 billion from oil exports same These are World Bank data for 2021. for the commodities they consume. In all issues of accountability and transparency
year. Nigeria with over 200 million people Or are we confusing individual wealth of West Africa, Ghana and Benin Republic over “taxpayers’ money”. Instead, we are
earned less than Kuwait which has just 2% with national wealth? Speaking in Nairobi, inclusive, citizens pay for petrol and electricity all going for our share of the oil money by
of our population. Our oil revenue, even if Kenya, sometime in 2013, President Goodluck at the market prices, with VAT and other hook or crook. After all, isn’t Nigeria rich?
well spent, cannot service our population. Jonathan said, and I paraphrase, “How taxes added on top. They do not see cheap Let us just gather and share the money
Why then do we think that we are rich can they say Nigeria is one of the poorest fuel or electricity as a birth right. In Nigeria, and have fun. It is a miserable mindset.
based on petrodollars? countries in the world when Alhaji Aliko we feel entitled because “Nigeria has oil” My summary: the notion that Nigeria is
If we choose to measure the wealth of a Dangote, the richest black man, is a Nigerian? and “Nigeria is rich”. Any attempt to make rich is not backed by the cold facts. But I
country by using the benchmark of gross Since we arrived here, Kenyans have been the necessary and sensible adjustments is agree absolutely that Nigeria is potentially
domestic product (GDP), we are still not rich. talking about the number of private jets that resolutely resisted. We would rather burn rich. However, we can only attain our
GDP aggregates the income generated by Nigerians flew into Kenya.” But assuming N3 trillion on petrol subsidy than invest it potential through good governance at all
a nation’s economy during a given period. we define “Nigeria is rich” by the wealth in hospitals. levels (not just in Abuja, which I intend
This gives us the value of its economic of a few individuals, we are still missing it. Also — and this is paradoxical — it is to discuss in the next article). We can only
activities and indicates the strength of the When we say we can afford to build all the argued that millions of Nigerians should not become rich through massive investment
economy. GDP-wise, the US is biggest with roads and provide free electricity and free pay income tax because they are “poor”. But in the productive capacities of our people.
$20.89 trillion, followed by China ($14.72 healthcare to 200 million of Nigerians, we shoe shiners and hairdressers pay income What is mineral wealth when it only induces
trillion), Japan ($5.06 trillion), Germany surely cannot be talking about Dangote’s tax in Ghana. Are our own shoe shiners mismanagement? What is arable land when
($3.85 trillion), and the UK ($2.67 trillion). wealth. and hairdressers poorer? We just think we yield per hectare is poor? What is human
These are 2022 data as provided by the Perhaps when we say “Nigeria is rich”, we are special in this country because we have capital when people are illiterate, hungry
World Bank. Nigeria, with a GDP of $441 are not really talking about the oil revenue oil. Our poorer neighbours have higher and sick? How can we deliver first-class
billion, has the biggest economy in Africa, and the GDP. Rather, we are thinking of the tax-to-GDP ratio compared to us. In fact, healthcare and education when we are
followed by South Africa with $418 billion potential: natural resources, human capital we have the lowest tax-to-GDP ratio in burning scarce resources on the egos and
and Egypt with $402 billion. But there is and arable land, etc. In that case, I agree Africa and one of the lowest in the world. libidos of the elite class?

And Four Other Things…

SUBSIDY COMEDY WAITING IN VAIN RMK VS OBI GOOD WORK, GABKWET
As I write this, Nigerians are buying petrol The PDP G5 governors, led by Chief Nyesom Dr Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the presidential In July 2021, when bandits shot down the
at between N250 and N300 per litre but, Wike, promised to endorse a presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party Nigerian Air Force Alpha Jet in Zamfara
according to the federal government, this is candidate and campaign for their choice (NNPP), has again rejected suggestions that state, Flight Lt Abayomi Dairo successfully
not yet a price increase. And, yes, we are still ahead of the February 25 election. Wike, he should have been running mate to Mr Peter ejected and escaped being captured or killed.
going to subsidise the product with N3 trillion the governor of Rivers state, has so far been Obi, the flag bearer of the Labour Party. Many This drew applause from many Nigerians
in the first half of 2023. Let me take that speaking in parables over when the group will political observers are of the opinion that it who would normally downplay the positives.
again. We have a subsidy bill of N3 trillion to announce their pick, although he did promise would have been a strong pairing. Kwankwaso Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, the NAF
make petrol available at N170/litre in order January and we still have over a week to go. played up his credentials on why he cannot be spokesperson at the time, worked behind the
to “protect the poor” but motorists are buying I can guess that Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, their running mate: he was in politics before Obi, scenes to put the air force pilots and personnel
it at nearly double that price and the “poor party’s candidate, is not going to be that was deputy speaker of the house of reps in in positive light. Indeed, his writing and story-
people” have been paying higher transport choice — except a miracle happens. It is a 1992, was twice elected governor of Kano telling skills easily stood out. He has now been
fares reflective of the effective pump price. straight fight between APC’s Bola Tinubu and state, was a minister, and holds a PhD. It is moved to Jos as station commander in the
Meanwhile, we are basically borrowing to Labour Party’s Peter Obi. Why is something probably a good thing that they did not team recent rejig of the high echelon. Gabkwet did
pay the subsidy. If you understand this brand telling me that the group will eventually not up. Otherwise, we would be separating fights a good job in his 22 months as the information
of economics, you definitely deserve to win a announce any candidate but would work in Aso Rock everyday if they end up winning. manager of NAF’s war on terror. We will miss
Nobel prize. Weird. underground for him? Waiting... Egos. him. Commendations!

AS WE SPRINT TOWARDS THE 2023 POLLS (3)

The flip side of the expected keen contest voters may include key ethnic, regional,
is that the winner of the February 25th religious, class and demographic groups
election may be elected by a minority of that are hurting or feel alienated already.
those who vote on that day. Between 1999 The outcome of the election may deepen
and 2019, the winning candidate secured their sense of hurt and alienation in many
between 53.96% and 69.60% of the valid and may negatively impact national unity
votes. This time around, it is likely that and security, among others.
the winner will secure between 30% and While it may be too late in the day to
40% of the valid votes. prevent this from happening, it is not too
This will be within the range of the early to start preparing for that possibility.
percentage of votes scored by the losing Interestingly, 1979 offers some insight in
candidates in the previous six elections practical and reasonable politics. NPN had a
(31.97% to 44.96%), save for 2007 when the different challenge back then. It didn’t have
candidate that came second got only 16.66% the parliamentary majority needed to get
of the votes. (Of course, everyone—including the ministers approved and key legislations
the winner of the election—agreed that the passed. For example, NPN had only 36 or
2007 poll belongs in the temple of infamy.) 38% of the 95 senate seats while UPN, NPP,
Ordinarily, this likely turn of events should GNPP and PRP had 28, 16, eight and seven
not be a cause for concern as we operate seats respectively. NPN formed an accord
the first-past-the-post voting system. Apart with NPP and ceded to NPP some ministerial
from meeting the spread requirement of positions, the Deputy Senate President position
securing 25% of votes cast in 24 states and INEC Chairman, Yakubu (Senator John Wash Pam), and the Speaker of
FCT, whoever scores the highest number of the House of Representatives (Chief Edwin
votes is the winner, even if the margin of of voters. NPN’s Alhaji Shehu Shagari became the Ume-Ezeoke) even when NPP had only 78
victory is just one vote. In any case, rarely This scenario takes us back to 1979, when president even when 66.23% of the voters of 449 House members.
does most of the registered voters turn up we held our first presidential election. That didn’t vote for him. The game is the game. If the winner of the 2023 elections gets
on election day. (Average voter turnout over election remains our most competitive Why should a repeat of this possibility elected by a minority of voters as I have
the previous six election cycles is 51%, a multiparty election till date. The five parties raise any eyebrow? My simple answer will sketched out here, he may or may not need
range of between 69% in 2003 and 35% polled as follows in the presidential election be: because the contexts are different. The to strike such a political bargain. But he will
in 2019). held on 11 August 1979: National Party political climate in Nigeria today is more definitely need to actively reach out to and
But a major shift may happen this time of Nigeria (NPN), 33.77%; Unity Party of heated and more fragile than it was 44 years assure the hurting and alienated majority that
around. For the first time in this republic, Nigeria (UPN), 29.18%; Nigerian People’s ago. The lines of division are sharper now, reject him at the poll. His most important job
we are likely to see a situation where the Party (NPP), 16.75%; People’s Redemption certain factors that didn’t register much on will be national healing, accommodation and
elected president may not be the preferred Party (PRP), 10.28%; and the Great Nigeria the political/electoral scales are now more reconciliation. Next in scale will be managing
candidate of the majority of those who vote People’s Party (GNPP), 10.01%. salient, and our country is facing its most expectations and preparing the country for
on election day. This will be on account of Though UPN unsuccessfully went to court security challenges in decades. the pains of necessary adjustments.
good showing by the other candidates who to challenge the election on account of the Based on the way the competition is
are likely to split the votes of the majority spread principle (the famous 12 2/3 saga), set up in 2023, the divided majority of (The series is hereby concluded.)
70 T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R JANUARY 22, 2023

NEWSXTRA
High Cost of Vessels, Inadequate Trucks Responsible for Fuel Scarcity, Say Marketers
Peter Uzoho depots to filling stations across in a statement Friday, saying lenges they are facing in the use its best endeavours to ensure since the government announced
Nigeria. the fuel queues “are caused by purchase of petrol at filling that product is sold at the pump plans to remove fuel subsidies,
The Major Oil Marketers Associa- The marketers explained that exceptionally high demand and stations across the country. at prices currently approved by Nigerians have had a hard time
tion of Nigeria (MOMAN) has these high logistics and exchange bottlenecks in the fuel distribution Over the past three months, the regulatory authorities, despite getting petroleum products at
attributed the lingering fuel scarcity rate costs continue to put pressure chain.” it said its staff members have pressure on price by demand filling stations.
in the country to high costs of on their operations with ripple “The major cause is the short- worked diligently at depots and and costs in immediate operating The scarcity has persisted de-
vessels and inadequate trucks to effects on the pump price. age and high costs of daughter’s filling stations to relieve the stress environment. spite the government’s repeated
deliver petroleum products from They made the clarification vessels for ferrying product from faced by Nigerians through the “A final resolution to these claims it had enough petroleum
mother vessels to depots along Christmas and New year periods. challenges will be the full products in stock. In many parts
the coast,” it said. “Our members have again deregulation of the petroleum of the country, operators of filling
Global Professionals Set Agenda “Next is the inadequate agreed to extend depot loading downstream sector to encourage stations sold at prices higher than
number of trucks to meet the hours as well as keep strategically liberalisation of supply and long- the government’s pump price.
for Presidential Candidates demand to deliver products situated service stations open term investments in distribution The Nigerian government
from depots to filling stations for longer hours to ease access assets. We urge the government Friday night said it has not
The Forum of Global Nigerian Mr. Yemi John and Mr. Chuks nationwide.” to fuels for our customers,” the to work towards this end goal,” approved any increase in the
Professionals (FGNP) yesterday Nwanosike. MOMAN said it sympathises association said. it said. pump prices of petrol across
noted that the most critical issues In a statement it issued yes- with Nigerians over the chal- It noted that it shall continue to In recent months, especially the country.
that affect majority of Nigerian terday, the forum claimed that
voters are still begging for serious, the challenges confronting the
practical attention. average Nigerian today, required
FGNP, an assembly of ac- more attention than the parties
complished professionals in the and their candidates are giving.
Diaspora, listed the issues to The statement added that
include high poverty level, the plans and programmes of
poor electricity supply, food the presidential flag bearers in
insecurity, the exchange rate detailed practical action plans
of the Naira and security would make all the difference.
among others that required According to the forum,
a detailed plan of action on it is true we have seen their
how they will be tackled manifestos, which in truth
come May 29. has told Nigerians their policy
The conveners of the outlook, but Nigerians want
Forum include Sir Dan to interrogate them more on
Amechi, Dr. Victor Oluwi, how they will deliver on these
Chief Stanley Wokocha, Mr. promises, given among others
Dauda Yusuf, Olanrewaju our dwindling revenue, massive
Adebayo, Dr. Sanni Mahmud, debts among other challenges.

Group Holds Workshop on

Security in Yorubaland Wednesday HOMAGE TO ROYAL FATHER…
Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Isiaka Oladayo Amao (left), and the Olowa and Paramount Ruler of Igbara-Oke Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Oba
Amid the growing concerns over Nigerian Navy Intelligence Francis Adefarakanmi Agbede, when the Air Force chief paid a courtesy visit to the palace of the monarch in Igbara-Oke, Ondo State…weekend
the spread of banditry, insurgency Corps; Brig.-Gen. Kunle To-
and other violent crimes in the gun, Commander, Oyo State
country, the Yoruba Leadership Amotekun Security Corps; Methodist Prelate Laments Worsening Insecurity, Seeks Credible Elections
and Peace Initiative (TYLPI) has Chief Tunji Alapini, a retired
unveiled plan to hold a high Assistant Inspector-General of Igbawase Ukumba in Lafia during the 2023 general election. for the better. peace in the forthcoming general
level workshop on safety and Police and Dr Modupe Albert He made these remarks at a Aba lamented that Nigerians election.
security in the region. of the Department of Politics The Prelate of Methodist Church of session with journalists shortly after had not had it so bad in the past He said: “Nigeria is the only
TYLPI, a foremost Yoruba and International Relations, Lead Nigeria, Dr. Oliver Aba yesterday he inaugurated the Diocese of the like what was happening currently country we have. So, I call on
advocacy group, announced City University, Ibadan. lamented worsening insecurity Methodist Church of Nigeria in in terms of worsening insecurity and Nigerians to vote only credible
the plan in a statement by its The statement added that and economic hardship, which Lafia, the Nasarawa state capital, economic hardship under the ruling leaders who will take us to the next
president, Mr. Olusegun K. topics slated for discussion at he said, had put the country in yesterday. All Progressives Congress (APC), level of a better Nigeria. As we go
Ahmadu yesterday. the workshop include insecurity a horrible situation. At the session, the prelate calling for change in government. to the poll in this year’s general
The statement said the in Yorubaland: the challenge Consequently, the prelate explained that the current situation He also noted that it was high time election, let everybody have the fear
workshop with the theme, confronting the security agencies; challenged Nigerians to vote in the country needed credible for Nigerians to come together and of God and vote credible leaders
“Safety and security in the role of traditional rulers in for credible leaders, who could leaders that would change what vote only credible leaders that would that will take Nigeria to a better
Yorubaland: An advisory for combating abductions and change the fortune of Nigerians he described as the bad situation unite the people and enthrone country.
stakeholders, “ would hold terrorism; taming the monsters
at the Conference Hall, Lead of abductions and terrorism in
City University, Ibadan on
Wednesday.
Yorubaland; the imperatives
of a decentralized security
FG Unveils Policy to Check Brain Drain in Health Sector
The statement listed the landscape in combating ban- Okon Bassey in Uyo that would now allow a Chief brought in a dozen unrelated by the federal government under
speakers at the programme to ditry in Nigeria as well as Medical Director to make an im- persons which over crowded Covid -19 funds.
include Orangun of Oke-Ila, the challenges and prospects The federal government at the mediate replacement of a doctor the hospitals.” The minister, who expressed
Osun State, Oba Adedokun of the military in mitigating weekend pledged to strengthen or nurse who is permanently out The projects commissioned satisfaction with management
Abolarin; Rear Admiral Leye the crisis of kidnapping and capacity and respond to health of service.” by the minister at the UUTH of the hospital, compared the
Jaiyeola (rtd), formerly of the terrorism. threats in the country. He said: “This policy is to included molecular laboratory trajectory of development in
The Minister of Health, Dr. enable the federal government complex, new Oxygen Plant, the Hospital to that of one of
Tirex P&E Completes Ikike Osagie Ehanire disclosed this at
the inauguration of projects at
address gap in manpower in
health sector in the federal civil
patients clinic complex and medical
out patients clinic.
the frontline hospitals in India.
He said the many projects
Well-drilling,Gets Contract Extension the University of Uyo Teaching service. Others were surgical out commissioned was a reflection
Hospital (UUTH), Uyo, the Akwa “CMDs should be careful not patients clinic, orthopaedic out pa- of the federal government’s
Tirex P&E has announced the developmental strides that will be Ibom capital. to abuse this policy as this has tients clinic, genealogy, pharmacy/ commitment to provide modern
completion of the Ikike well drilling of great impact to the growth and He explained that the Federal thwarted the process when newly laboratory unit, radiology com- equipped health care centres to
and well intervention campaign capacity of Nigeria, particularly in Ministry of Health had now introduced where one doctor plex, renovated and re-equipped citizens in fulfilment of its mandate
for Total Energies. the promotion of local content by introduced “a one-to-one policy leaves and the management intensive care complex- all funded to Nigeria.
A statement by the company the Federal Government of Nigeria.
said the project commenced in July
2021, at the Ikike Field, located
This milestone will help the West
African energy giant revitalise its Melaye under Fire for Peddling Lies against Tinubu
approximately 20km offshore oil output following a decline
Nigeria, as part of the Oil Mining in production in the past two Fidelis David in Akure (SRG), pointing out his recent “He is Citizen One of and egg; and in the Tinubu
Lease (OML99) with a total of years due to issues including “unguarded utterances aimed simpletons. Uncle Dino didn’t case, he came out of it all
five wells drilled and completed the impacts of the COVID-19 The spokesman of the Peoples at tarnishing Tinubu’s public know, so let’s educate him. clean, unblemished,” Oludare
and a 120-day well intervention pandemic, the Russian-Ukraine Democratic Party Presidential image. The man Tinubu was never appraised.
scope at the Amenam Platform. war and declining investments Campaign Council (PDP-PCC), Faulting falsehood against indicted by any law court. The SRG convener
The statement also noted that in exploration as well as natural Dino Melaye yesterday came Tinubu by Melaye in a Accounts belonging to the particularly tasked Dino to
the Ikike well drilling campaign declines in legacy projects. under fire for peddling false- national TV programme man were investigated by respond to weighty allegations
is a direct product of Tirex P&E’s Subsequently, and as a result hood against the presidential recently, Convener of SRG, prosecutors and that was bothering on abuse of office
support for the growth and de- of confidence in Tirex P&E’s candidate of All Progressives Dr. Marindoti Oludare, a termed as indictment by and unhealthy business deals
velopment of indigenous drilling service excellence, Total Energies Congress (APC), Senator Bola medical doctor based in the those who do not know. levelled against former Vice
companies operating in the oil and has extended the offshore drilling Tinubu. United States, said: “Uncle “Now for you to know what President Atiku Abubakar,
gas industry in Nigeria. contract which was awarded in Melaye’s vicious use of false- Dino was spewing a bunch of an indictment is, a New York “rather than turn his responses
According to the statement, 2021 for an additional exploration hood against the presidential balderdash trying to defend judge once said that prosecu- to a circus show of forging lies
“More importantly, Tirex P&E is well with potentially one to two candidate caught the attention Atiku’s unfolding instances tors can indict a piece of arm against Tinubu in a laughable,
pleased to have participated in such additional wells on this extension.” of Social Rehabilitation Gruppe of clear malfeasance. sandwich, especially bread diversionary method.”
THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ‡JANUARY 22 , 2023 71

SUNDAYSPORTS Edited by: Duro Ikhazuagbe

email:[Link]@[Link]

NPFL
South West Derby Lights up Group
A as 11 Teams Look for First Wins
Fisayo Dairo

Match-day 3 of the 2022/2023 Nigeria Premier Foot-

ball League (NPFL) season promises another round
of scintillating football action with a tasty South West
derby at Ikenne-Remo and a crunchy North East derby
in Maiduguri the pick of the encounters.
Remo Stars have successfully carried on from where
WKH\ OHIW RͿ ODVW VHDVRQ KDYLQJ ZRQ WKHLU ÀUVW WZR
matches, keeping clean sheets on each occasion.
Today though, they face their sternest test yet in
Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) of Ibadan.
3SC are now coached by Gbenga Ogunbote who steered
Remo Stars to third place last term but the Oluyole
:DUULRUVDUHVWLOOVHDUFKLQJIRUWKHLUÀUVWYLFWRU\WKLVWHUP
after playing out draws in their opening two games.
3SC are not the only team in search of a win in Group A:
WKHSPNLFNRͿRQ6XQGD\EHWZHHQ1DVDUDZD8QLWHG
DQG$NZD8QLWHGDOVRSLWVWZRVLGHVORRNLQJIRUWKHLU
ÀUVWZLQVDJDLQVWHDFKRWKHU:KLOH1DVDUDZDKDYH
ORVWWKHLUÀUVWWZRJDPHVE\WKHVDPHVFRUHOLQHV
$NZD8QLWHGKDYHRQHSRLQWFRXUWHV\RIDGRJJHG
Victor
Vi t O Osimhen
i h scored
d hi
his 13th lleague goall as N
Napoli
li d
defeated
f t dS Salernitana
l it 2
2-0
0 yesterday
t d draw at Enyimba on Wednesday.
After recording an impressive win over Nasarawa
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Osimhen’s Napoli Reach 50 Points 7LQ&LW\WRIDFHODQGORUGV3ODWHDX8QLWHGRQ0DWFKGD\

DV3ODWHDX8QLWHGJRLQVHDUFKRIWKHLUÀUVWZLQRI
the season.
Surprise group leaders Bendel Insurance have a trip
Half Way Mark of Italian Serie A WR,EDGDQWRIDFH.ZDUD8QLWHGZKRDUHJUDGXDOO\
coming around as the draw specialists. Having been
KHOGLQ,EDGDQE\*RPEH8QLWHGRQ0DWFK'D\
the Harmony Warriors again battled stadium owners
™Š••Ž’DZȱȃȱŽȱ–žœȱ—˜ȱœšžŠ—Ž›ȱ‘Žȱ™˜œœ’‹’•’’Žœȱǻ˜ȱŒžŽĴ˜Ǽȱ Žȱ‘ŠŸŽȄ Shooting Stars to the same 0-0 score-line on Thursday.
7KH\QRZJRLQVHDUFKRIWKHLUÀUVWJRDODQGZLQRIWKH
Napoli to a routine 2-0 victory FKDONHGRͿ 2021 (one v Atalanta). season against Monday Odigie’s Insurance on Sunday.
Duro Ikhazuagbe with agency over the strugglers on Saturday, No team has ever failed to The Partenopei were good
report moving them 12 points clear of win Serie A after reaching a value for their victory after Di

A
fter Victor
second-placed Milan ahead of
the Rossoneri’s trip to Lazio on
half-century of points at this
stage of a campaign, and head
Lorenzo hammered home on
the stroke of half-time, however, RESULTS
Osimhen Tuesday. coach Spalletti knows Napoli leading Spalletti to praise the
scored his MATCH-DAY 3
The result made Napoli just the have an incredible opportunity way they improved as the game
13th Serie third team to reach 50 points in WRFODLPWKHLUÀUVWOHDJXHWLWOH went on.
A goal GROUP A
WKHÀUVWKDOIRID6HULH$VHDVRQ since 1990. “These matches can be condi- Nasarawa vs Akwa Utd
yesterday DIWHU-XYHQWXV LQDQG “We know that we have an tioned by us having too much Plateau Utd vs Enyimba FC
as Napoli 2018-19) and Inter (in 2006-07). unprecedented opportunity,” responsibility,” he said.
defeated Salernitana 2-0 to go Kwara Utd vs B’Insurance
2VLPKHQKLWWDUJHWLQWKHWK Spalletti told DAZN after the ´<RX KDYH WR WDNH WKH ÀHOG
12 points clear of second-placed minute to double the Napoli win. “We must not squander the with the right mentality and El-Kanemi vs Gombe Utd
AC Milan, Manager of the lead after he followed up on possibilities we have. We must always play football well, with Remo Stars FC vs Shooting
Naples-based team, Luciano a rebound. Halfway through remain humble and do things the correct rhythm, which is what
Spalletti, insisted his wards the campaign, the Super Eagles professionally.” makes you win the games. GROUP B
cannot hit 50 points half way striker is now just a goal shy of Napoli had to remain patient ´,QWKHÀUVWKDOIZHFRXOGQ·W
RIWKH,WDOLDQWRSÁLJKWDQGQRW his total tally for last season. before making the breakthrough ÀQGWKHVSDFHVDQGLQGHHGZH Rangers vs Sunshine
win the Scudetto. Osimhen thought he had even in Salerno, recording their lowest could have risked some danger- Abia War’ vs Lobi Stars
Goals from Giovanni Di put his club in front earlier in VKRWWDOO\LQWKHÀUVWKDOIRID6HULH ous restarts. In the second half, Bayelsa Utd vs Wikki
Lorenzo and Osimhen helped WKHÀUVWKDOIEXWWKDWHͿRUWZDV A match (two) since February however,everyonedidverywell. Doma Utd vs Dakkada FC
Rivers Utd vs N’Tornadoes

PREMIER LEAGUE
Liverpool, Chelsea in Another Tepid Display at Anfield ....NFF Extends Tenure of IMC
Liverpool and Chelsea have
produced a long history of
are those of underachievement.
Liverpool and Chelsea, in their
the tale of how the two sides,
locked in relentless pursuit of
RͿWKHWRSIRXUDQGWKRVHSUHFLRXV
Champions League places after a
Team Till End of Season
dramatic occasions and classic GHIHQFH FDQ RͿHU XS PLWLJDW- big prizes in recent years, have GLVPDOHQFRXQWHUZLWKRQO\ÀYH President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF),
PDWFKHVDW$QÀHOG7KLVZDVQRW ing circumstances in the shape currently fallen from their former shots on target. Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau has extended the tenure
one of them. of injuries and - in the visitors’ standards. It was certainly no way for of the Interim Management Committee of the Nigeria
When referee Michael Oliver case - a remarkable spree in the $WWKHÀQDOZKLVWOH/LYHUSRRO /LYHUSRRO·V -XUJHQ .ORSS WR Premier Football League (NPFL) till the end of the
VRXQGHGKLVÀQDOZKLVWOH$Q- transfer market that has seen a stood in eighth position and Chel- celebrate his 1,000th game in 2022/2023 League Season.
ÀHOG·VQHDUVLOHQFHZDVDEUXWDO near coachload of new arrivals sea two behind them, nine points management. The NFF President said he decided to extend the IMC’s
UHÁHFWLRQRIWKHIDFWWKLVPDWFK pitch up at Stamford Bridge tenure in order to allow the team to concentrate fully
was nowhere near as entertaining requiring integration. on the organisation and management of the ongoing
as the 0-0 scoreline might suggest. There was still, however, NPFL season, which is only heading to its Matchday
,QGHHG$QÀHOGZDVVXEGXHG enough quality on the pitch to 3 this weekend.
throughout as two of the Premier produce better than the monu- Gusau had inaugurated the Interim Management
League giants - currently going ment to mediocrity erected by Committee of the NPFL, headed by Hon. Gbenga Eleg-
through a period of mutual strug- Liverpool and Chelsea over these beleye, on 21st October 2022 with an initial mandate of
gle - delivered graphic evidence of 90 minutes. three months, and a slew of terms of reference aimed
why their respective campaigns The Premier League table tells at engendering a new life generally for Nigeria’s elite
division.
RESULTS At the Draw Ceremony for the new season, staged on
28th December 2022, the NFF President had thumbed
up the IMC for the tremendous work it had been doing
Liverpool 0-0 Chelsea
since inauguration and assured it of NFF’s support in
Bournemouth 1-1 Forest turning around Nigeria’s domestic League for the better,
including fostering a viable football economy.
Leicester 2-2 Brighton Due to time factor, the IMC opted for an abridged
Southampton 0-1 A’Villa format for the 2022/2023 NPFL Season, with 10 Clubs
in Group A and 10 Clubs in Group B. The current season
West Ham 2-0 Everton Both Chelsea and Liverpool exposed why they are mid table teams with is scheduled to end in May.
Cry’Palace 0-0 Newcastle another tepid display at Anfield...yesterday
 TR N
UT H
Sunday 22 January, 2023 & RE A S O Price: N400
MISSILE
NNPP to Atiku/Tinubu
“Nigerians are tired of recycled politicians who have numerous cases of
corruption, drugs, birth, educational certificates, health and questionable
source of wealth” – New Nigeria People’s Party urging the presidential candidates
of PDP, Atiku Abubakar and his counterpart in APC, Bola Tinubu to withdraw from
the presidential race over serious allegations of corruption and drug peddling

SIMONKOLAWOLE
SIMONKOLAWOLELIVE! [Link]@[Link], sms: 0805 500 1961

Five Common Errors about Nigeria (I)

N
igeria is a rich country. You Here we go. The projected revenue of the we would not pay salaries and pensions or
have heard this a million federal government for 2023 is N9.73 trillion. fund public agencies.
times, haven’t you? What The projected expenditure is N21.83 trillion, Do not get me wrong: I am not saying we
exactly do people mean meaning we are going to borrow at least do not have a corruption problem. I am not
by “Nigeria is rich”? They N11 trillion if the budget is to perform at denying that we waste money like water. I am
believe we have enough 100 per cent. All the money to be stolen or not that silly. I am very much aware of the
money to build all the roads in every nook and wasted will be accommodated in budget. money heist that is going on at every level
cranny of the federation, provide piped water Let’s even say the revenue of N9.73 trillion of government — federal, state and local.
to every house, build world-class hospitals is grossly understated and it may be double If nothing else, I read the bulletins from the
in every village, and provide free primary, that amount if pre-remittance leakages are EFCC and ICPC. But my argument is that
secondary and tertiary education — and accounted for adequately. That gives us an even if no kobo is stolen or wasted, Nigeria
still have plenty to spare for petrol and assumed “true” revenue of N19.46 trillion. still does not have enough money to meet
electricity subsidies and free healthcare for We can still safely assume that everything its critical needs. Even if every kobo is spent
200 million people. The biggest problem, they to be stolen or wasted at the federal level in conscientiously and judiciously, Nigeria will
say, is corruption and waste. Therefore, if 2023 will be from the N21.83 trillion budget. still not be able to finance its critical needs.
we end corruption and waste today, Nigeria Right? I am driving somewhere. Now imagine the tragedy of stealing and
will be so rich our problem will no longer According to various estimates, Nigeria wasting what is patently not enough! It is a
be money but how to spend it. This is a needs about $80 billion yearly over the next case of double jeopardy for Nigeria.
common belief. 10 years to bridge its critical infrastructure The impression that “Nigeria is rich”
In a series of articles starting from today, gap. Critical infrastructure includes roads, may be a product of conceptual fallacy. I
I intend to highlight five common errors power, water and healthcare. At the current suspect that people say this because of the
we make about our country. They are so “official” exchange rate of N454/$, that means oil wealth. It is generally believed that since
common that we just repeat them without Buhari we need N36 trillion per year for the next 10 we are among the biggest producers of oil
scrutiny. Times were when people would years for critical infrastructural. That comes in the world, then we are among the richest.
say inaccurate, misleading or sometimes even though people are eternally entitled to N360 trillion (or $800 billion). Even if we When people say “Nigeria is rich but our
downright false things about Nigeria and to their opinions. As we say in journalism, add all the oil income and tax revenues of the problem is waste and corruption”, I think
I would quietly face my lane and pretend facts are sacred but opinions are free. You federal government, 36 states and 774 local they are calculating the barrels of crude oil
as if I was not around. However, as I got can hold whatever opinion you like but councils together (I don’t have the figures), I and the prices in the international market.
older, I started feeling like I had a duty to do you are not allowed to make up the facts don’t know where the N36 trillion revenue
something about certain misleading notions, as you desire. per year will come from. I am even assuming Continued on page 69

WAZIRIADIO
POSTSCRIPT

As We Sprint towards the 2023 Polls (3)

A
t five weeks to the landmark and 2019, the two leading parties combined is nothing wrong with having just two experiment started by General Ibrahim
2023 presidential poll, it is cornered between 86.26% and 98.92% of the parties or with a multi-party democracy Babangida (when he forced two parties
not too early to start thinking valid votes. In 2019 for example, the two with two dominant parties. You can have on the country during the aborted Third
of and preparing for the dominant parties snapped a combined total real alternatives and good competition in Republic) has become a major part of our
morning after. The emerging of 96.82% of the votes, leaving the remaining a two-party system. In actual fact, most political culture.
consensus among pundits and 71 other parties that fielded presidential established democracies have two dominant Based on the dynamics of the coming
keen political observers is that the result candidates to scramble for a measly 3.18% parties that regularly alternate power. elections, my considered view is that the
of the February 25th presidential election of the votes. The candidate that came third The issue with our current two dominant era when political parties take the voters
will show a keen contest among three or overall polled only 0.40% of the valid votes parties is that they rarely offer voters for granted and without consequences is
four candidates, making this election cycle cast, and even that could have been because much to choose from in terms of ideas or coming to a necessary end. Even if either of
the most competitive since 1999. his party sounded almost like one of the personalities, they are populated by the the two parties wins the elections, I want
If things go as projected, this will be a dominant parties. same criss-crossing politicians, and they to believe they have seen the bold writing
major shift in and a toast to the health and The highest proportion of the votes a third run on the same philosophy of patronage on the wall.
maturity of our Fourth Republic. But the party has ever garnered in the presidential politics. And most fundamental, they are This thus will be a major win. And should
projected tightness of the race is a double- elections since 1999 is 7.45%. This record too entrenched and too conceited to see the be seen as another major marker of progress
edged development, worth celebrating and was set by Alhaji Atiku Abubakar in 2007 need to constantly read the room, reinvent in the Fourth Republic, alongside other key
risk-proofing at the same time. I will examine when he was the presidential flagbearer of themselves or embrace reform. It is thus milestones which include: holding out for
this duality today as I conclude my three-part the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN). Some easy to see them as two damaged peas in more than two decades, featuring more
countdown series on the 2023 polls. scholars like Thomas Carothers have a name the same rotten pod. than two consecutive elections in a republic
First the exciting and commendable part. for the divergence between multipartyism The possibility of a third force or the and recording two term-barred presidents,
Since 1999, Nigeria has effectively been on paper and in reality. They call it feckless viability of candidates running on previously three transitions and the defeat of at least a
a multi-party democracy only in name. pluralism. obscure or relatively new parties is thus a ruling party. The multiplication of options
The contest has largely been between two The projected competition in 2023 thus needed wake-up call for the two leading for the voters is also a potential incentive
political parties, with the gaggle of other will make our electoral system truly more parties and a necessary shock to the system. for better governance.
parties (sometimes numbering more than plural and will further expand options for I suspect that no matter how this election But every good thing has a potential
80) merely making up the numbers. You voters. This is good for our electoral politics goes, we will still have two dominant parties, downside.
can call them paper parties. and for our democracy. even if those parties are not the current
In the five election cycles between 2003 It is worth stating quickly that there ones. I say this because I believe that the Continued on page 69

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