COVID-19: FG’s N2.3trn Intervention Stimulus Kicks off Tomorrow Rolls out with two states per geo-political zone Bauchi touts 828 communities to benefit from package Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi Covid-19 pandemic in the Management and Social states each per geo-political than 828 communities to Economic Planning, Mallam country kicks-off tomorrow, Development, in partnership zone would first rollout the benefit from the package. Yakubu Mudi, however A 2.3 trillion naira stimulus Monday May 24, in phases with the World Bank is tagged: registration, with Bauchi and A statement by the disclosed the development. package by the federal across the country. “Covid-19 Rapid Response Adamawa States from North communications officer of the The objective of the Covid-19 government to mitigate An initiative being Register (RRR)”. East Zone commencing from State Operations Coordinating Rapid Response Register (RRR) the effects of recession and overseen by the Ministry of With the phased approach May 24 to 31, of which Bauchi Unit (SOCU) in the Bauchi economic impact of the Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster beginning tomorrow, two is already touting no fewer State Ministry of Budget and Continued on page 5

Leave Our Party Alone, PDP Governors Warn EFCC… Page 5

Sunday 23 May, 2021 Vol 26. No 9540

www.thisdaylive.com T N400 RU N TH & REASO Buhari: Attahiru was a Brave Soldier Who Led from the Front Osinbajo: Their death, a depth of sacrifice They died with their boots on, says Jonathan He was determined to end Boko Haram war, Zulum attests Irabor assures sacrifices of fallen officers won’t be in vain Senate president, Mustapha, el-Rufai, Gambari, service chiefs attend burial See story on pgs 15, 16 & 17

The Heroes Who Died in Service to Fatherland... See story on pg 12

Brig.-Gen. Mohammed Abdulkadir Brig.-Gen. Olatunji Olayinka Brig. Gen. Kuliya Major L A Hayat Maj Hamza

Lt. Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru Sgt Umar Flt Lt To Asaniyi Flt Lt Alfred Ayodeji Olufade Sgt Adesina Opeyemi Deeziah ACM Olamide Oyedepo 2 SUNDAY MAY 23, 2021 • THISDAY SUNDAY MAY 23, 2021 • THISDAY 3 4 SUNDAY MAY 23, 2021 • THISDAY ͺͻ˜ͺ͸ͺ͹˾THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER 5 PAGE FIVE Inside Story of Ayade’s Defection to APC As party leadership accuses gov of undue complacency Chuks Okocha in Abuja the loss of the oil wells was an President for the future of our lost the control of the party Assembly in the state moved National Assembly. “act of gross injustice and the country”, he said, noting that structures in the state due to and took the party structures "As a governor, he ought New facts have shown that APC jump to it as a working the territorial integrity of the his complacent attitude to party from him. to have moved to take full economic factors far more tool.” state has been interfered with issues. "It was after this slumber that charge of affairs in the state. outweighed the political reasons Ayade had alleged and that it was his responsibility The source said it has always he woke up and demanded that He was like emperor wining that necessitated the recent unconscionable injustices meted to “resocket’ the state back to been the party policy that the NWC should intervene and and dinning when members defection of the Cross River out to the state by the federal its proper disposition. governors control political party restore the party structures to of National Assembly moved State governor, Ben Ayade, from government, regretting the However, the national structures in their state, but "the him. He was the architect of against him and took over the the Peoples Democratic Party takeover of Bakassi Peninsula leadership of the PDP, a source governor was very complacent himself missing out in the power party from him," the source (PDP) to the All Progressives by Cameroun as well as the claimed, believed that Ayade and members of the National structures to members of the stated. Congress (APC). non-reimbursement of funds Even more, the governor's spent on federal roads, which alleged complacent attitude also forced him to call for a political contributed to why members solution. of the National Assembly "This was one of the reasons outplayed him in the wards, that Senator Ita Giwa has thrown local and state congresses her support for the defection", elections in the state. the source said, explaining that A top source within the Mama Bakassi as she was called, National Working Committee believed that the offer could (NWC) of the PDP said the help the economic development economic issue played out of the state. more than the governor losing "So, the defection was the PDP structures in the state. imminent as the APC-led THISDAY gathered a bait of federal government want to returning some, at least 20 oil ensure a control of a state in wells out of the 76 that were the South-south," the source ceded to Akwa Ibom by federal stressed government, largely informed Ita-Giwa had told newsmen why Ayade left the PDP. shortly after Ayade defected to According to the source, the APC that the governor was "Since the APC lost the bids the political leader in the state to have a foothold in Bayelsa and she would always go where and later Edo States, out of he leads. the desperation to have the “We have a leader in the state APC in the South-south, the and wherever he moves to my ruling shifted attention to Cross loyalty is with him”. River State, using the bait of Ita-Giwa, who was a founding returning some of the 76 oil member of All People’ ceded to to Party, ANPP has moved between Cross River." PDP and APC four times since The source explained that 1999. Governor Ayade had since Giving reasons for his 2019 sought return of some defection, Ayade said injustice of the 76 oil wells ceded to and meddling in the affairs of Akwa Ibom following the his state led him to move to APC ruling of the Supreme Court “It is my responsibility to DECISION TIME... in 2012, saying the ceding of bring back Cross River to the the oil-rich peninsula was illegal center to enhance our fortune. Governor, Seyi Makinde, casting his vote at Ward 11, Unit 001, Abayomi Iwo-road of Ibadan North East Local and therefore maintained that We need to work ahead with our Government Area, Ibadan, during the Local Government Election in Oyo State oyo state government Leave Our Party Alone, PDP Governors Warn EFCC State chairmen insist political parties are under INEC Edo chapter expels Afegbua for anti-party Chuks Okocha in Abuja The PDP governors in a yeoman's job of preventing a on PDP's Returns. in Nigeria. chairmen, "As 2023 draws near, statement by the Director descent into chaos and anarchy "The times are really perilous. "That the laws establishing the muzzling of opposition Governors elected on the General of its secratariat, Cyril in Nigeria. We face existential threats as a both EFCC and INEC are very parties by any group of power platform of the Peoples Maduabum, said the recent "Perhaps, certain interests in nation and PDP shouldn't be clear as to their respective drunk individuals, who want Democratic Party (PDP) invitation of officials of the government are worried about distracted from its main role as functions. That Nigeria is a to perpetuate themselves in have asked the Economic and PDP by the EFCC acting on the increasingly assertive role a political watchdog on behalf Multi-Party Democracy and office through undemocratic Financial Crimes Commission a petition by a former member the PDP is playing in calling out of Nigerians," the statement not a One Party Democracy means will be stiffly resisted. (EFCC) to leave their party of party raised questions on corruption in government and by the PDP governors stated. and that EFCC and indeed "Finally, the forum stands alone and not turn the anti-graft the seriousness and impartiality wants to weaken and silence In equal breath, the Forum all Government Agencies very firmly behind the national agency into a witch-hunting of the anti-graft agency to do it," the PDP governors stated. of PDP State Chairmen, in and Institutions should not leadership of our great Party, tool against opposition political its work. The governors noted that statement by their spokesman, be involved in anything that headed by our National parties. The PDP governors said even the petition in question Hon. Francis Orogu, and will threaten the growth of Chairman, Prince Uche Similarly, 36 states chairmen while party as a political did not make a single allegation chairman, Nassarawa State, Democracy in Nigeria. Secondus. Our confidence in of the PDP and the Federal entity was accountable to its of misuse of government funds, said it had taken note of "That we will not allow the NWC of the party remains Capital Territory (FCT) have members and the general public nor cheating of any individual the invitation by the EFCC any Agency or Institution of solid and unshaken". also advised the EFCC to trade for its actions, "we are, however, or public authority by the PDP. extended to the national Government to tamper with the Meanwhile, the PDP in Edo within its limit as venturing into concerned that the old tactics "It is, therefore, surprising leadership of the PDP and cherished rights of Nigerians State, in a letter to Secondus, political witch-hunt was outside of using the EFCC to silence that EFCC should use its scarce that having consulted among to hold and share their views notified the party of the the constitutional mandate of political opposition is creeping human and other resources to its members, took certain through identification with any expulsion of Kasim Afrgbua the anti-graft agency, saying into our polity once again. We begin an investigation into decisions. legally and constitutionally The party in a statement by only the Independent National had expected that the EFCC PDP finances. If EFCC is "That the monitoring of recognised association", the the state chairman, Dr. Anthony Electoral Commission (INEC) under a new leadership will even-handed and non-partisan, Political Parties funds is the forum said. Azigbine, said the decision to is constitutionally empowered learn from the mistakes of its it should also conduct an legal and constitutional duty The PDP states chairmen, first suspend Afegbua was as a to take up such responsibilities. predecessors. investigation into other political of INEC and not that of EFCC. therefore, advised the EFCC result of his anti-party activities. This is as the "It is a misplaced priority for parties including APC, the That INEC has not raised any to, without delay, terminate The Edo PDP further stated chapter of the PDP has expelled EFCC to abandon revelations of ruling party. issue on the generation and this unholy voyage that can that it invited Afegbua several one of its own, Kazeem Afegbua monumental fraud by various "PDP is up-to-date in making management of the finances of only lead the country to doom, times to appear before the state over allegations of anti-party, officials and agencies of the financial returns as required by the PDP as a Party. That EFCC advising it also to restrict itself disciplinary committee, but he more so that he was the one federal government to pursue the Constitution to INEC and has never, to our knowledge, to its core mandate as provided refused hence the decision who petitioned the EFCC over the PDP, which is the main we are not aware that INEC questioned the management of for in its statutes. to expel him for his various finances of the party. opposition party doing a made any complaints to EFCC finances of any Political Party According to the PDP state anti-party activities COVID-19: FG’S N2.3TRN INTERVENTION STIMULUS KICKS-OFF TOMORROW intervention, Mudi further to a text message from could text to apply for educating people from the receive text messages with the offer for fear of fraudsters. explained, was to identify their phones using a special registration into the RRR. targeted communities to be USSD codes that would allow Already, the statement and support individuals and USSD codes that will be “Already, Bauchi SOCU on the look out for such them to register, so as to be clarified, 12 local government households in semi urban areas, made available by the State have held a meeting with state messages in their phones, with considered for the federal areas in Bauchi had been whose livelihoods had been Operation Coordinating Unit ministry of Local Government radio jingles and programmes government’s Covid-19 Cash selected to participate in the disrupted by the Covid-19 to each of the selected LGAs. and Chieftaincy Affairs, ongoing to further enlighten Assistance,”Mudi said. Covid-19 RRR intervention pandemic. According to the statement, Chairmen of the selected LGs, potential beneficiaries. The While calling on the people and they are Alkaleri, Kirfi, The statement stated that the general nationwide code as well as ALGON Chairman potential beneficiaries will from the selected communities Warji, Toro, Jama’are, Itas/ in alone, about of *969# can be dial to get in the state, informing them be targeted in semi urban to avail themselves the Gadau, Shira, Tafawa Balewa, 828 communities in 12 Local connected to the RRR Call on the processes, aims, and wards of the 12 selected opportunity to be registered in Ganjuwa, Dass, Bogoro and Government Areas had been centre for inquiries, with each objectives of Covid-19 Cash LGAs of Bauchi State, using the exercise, Mudi also solicited Darazo LGAs. earmarked to benefit from participating Local Government Transfer Rapid Response geographic satellite remote the assistance of elites within Also, a total of 20 Wards the cash intervention, after Area and Ward having their Register. sensing technology. the concerned communities to were equally selected from fulfilling the criteria for unique USSD codes that the “Also, ad-hoc staff are “Those selected in these further enlighten the potential the LGAs, with a projected selection through replying target individuals/households deployed, going round communities will then beneficiaries by not rejecting number of 828 communities. 6 SUNDAY MAY 23, 2021 • THISDAY SUNDAY MAY 23, 2021 • THISDAY 7 8 SUNDAY MAY 23, 2021 • THISDAY SUNDAY MAY 23, 2021 • THISDAY 9 10 ͺͻ˜ͺ͸ͺ͹˾THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER NEWS

FRESH ON HOSPITALITY LANDSCAPE... State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo; Minister of Information & Culture, Mr. Lai Mohammed; former President, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan; and CEO, SIFAX Group, Dr. Taiwo Afolabi, during the formal inauguration of Lagos Marriott Hotel, …recently Bandits Run Riot in Niger, Kill One, Injure One, Kidnap 11 Governor cries out over growing menace Eight killed in herdsmen’s attack on Benue community Laleye Dipo in Minna and identified staff of the Nigeria that some of the villages raided Police Command, DSP Wasiu not minding the state's lean were killed at the Abagena IDP George Okoh in Makurdi Security and Civil Defence included Kuchi, Guni and Abiodun did not respond to resources, which is now being camp in Makurdi. Corps NSCDC were also Chibane. calls made to him afterwards. diverted to security issues. Following the attack, the Bandits, on Thursday, raided among those kidnapped. It was learnt that the bandits Speaking after attending "The situation on ground Executive Chairman of Makurdi the Sabon Rafinsanyin area of According to a reliable source moved in large numbers and the burial of Bashar Saidu at the moment calls for every Local Government Council, Suleja Town, in within the government, others bore sophisticated weapons . Namaska, son of the Sarkin Nigerian to reflect, think and Hon Anthony Dyegeh, visited at about 2.30am, killing one kidnapped were the sister of "They moved from vilage Sudan of Kontagora,Alhaji wake up to do the needful. We the scene of the attack for an person and kidnapping 11 the NNPC staff simply called to village rustling cattle and Saidu Namaska on Friday, shouldn't politicise matters, and on-the-spot assessment and others. Farina, Mr. Ishola, Mr. Baba taking away the property of Bello said bandits, who were particularly security matters,” evacuation of corpses and the The Suleja incident came Daniel and his brother. villagers" anothereyewitness being dislodged from some he said. injured to the hospital. simultaneously with the The bandits, who were many said but could not explain why communities in the Niger East According to him, armed Dyegeh condemned the raids on some communities and heavily armed were said the mentally derailed persons Senatorial zone of the state bandits do not differentiate attacks on innoncent people in Munya local government to have raided the new Suleja were killed, because the bandits had started moving into the or carry out their nefarious of and called on of the state, which has been layout moving from house to were largely after rustling of hinterlands of the Niger North activities along party or ethno- various security agencies to one of the epicentre of bandits’ house to kidnap their victims cattle and dispossesing people Senatorial zone to carryout their religious divide, hence the need stand up to their duties of attacks in the last couple of and disposses them of their of their valuable items deadly activities. for collective efforts in the fight securing the lives and properties months, just as the Niger State valuables. "They (Bandits) must have The Sardauna Kontagora against banditry, saying also of the citizens of the state. Governor, Alhaji Abubakar "They were all herded into thought the insane men were and three others were killed that everyone should stand up The Chairman confirmed Sani Bello, has cried out that a bus and taken to unknown normal human being and by bandits on his father's farm to his or her responsibility in a total of eight deaths, seven bandits were extending their destination" the eyewitness could attack them," a different at Masuga on the Kontagora what ever capacity to bring the men and a woman while five activities to other parts of the further told THISDAY, saying eyewitness said. - Rijau road on Wednesday evil act of banditry to an end. were badly injured and had state, particularly, the Niger there was panic among other Shiroro and Munya Local evening. Bello, after the interment, been taken to the Benue State North Senatorial zone residents, who were helpless, Governments are among two Bello lamented that while paid a condolence visit to the University Teaching Hospital, In a related development, because no security people areas where the military began efforts were ongoing to tackle Sarkin Sudan Kontagora, where Makurdi. suspected herdsmen on came to their aid. bandits clearance operation the activities of bandits in he described the deceased son Also, Special Adviser to the saturday attacked Tse Ancha, a THISDAY further learnt that last week resulting in those Munyan and Shiroro Local as "a close ally whose services Governor on Security matters, community in Makurdi Local bandits again raided some displaced returning to the Government Areas, the bandits will be missed by the emirate Colonel Paul Hembah, who Government area of Benue villages in the Munya Local communities. had decided to move into and the state" accompanied the chairman to State, killing eight persons Government Area of the state, Armed soldiers in several the hinter land of zone C to He also described the the scene, called the people to and injuring many others. killing two men suspected to trucks were transported to perpetrate their evil acts and circumstances surrounding his stop relying on federal security However, in Niger, the man be insane. the area on the orders of the therefore reemphasised the need death as "Most unfortunate" and alone but stand up to defend killed at new Rafinsanyin One person was reported new GOC of the I Mechanized for the security architecture of charged the monarch to take themselves and their Lands. was identified as Nicholas to have been shot and was Division of the the state to be strenghtened. the incident as an act of God. He extended Governor while his wife and sister admitted at the Sarkin-Pawa , Major General Hamisu He said the rate at which Meanwhile, suspected Samuel Ortom's condolences in-law, who were staying in general hospital for treatment. Ali-Keffi for the assault on the banditry were thriving in the herdsmen on saturday attacked to the people and prayed for the same residence with him These particular raids were bandits. state and country as a whole Tse Ancha, a community in peace to return in the state. were kidnapped. said to have taken place The Police have not called for every Nigerian to Makurdi Local Government However, at the scene of the A staff of the NNPC, whose between Wednesday and confirmed these incidents, reflect, even as government area killing eight persons, in attack, an ATM Card bearing name was given as Usman Thursday in broad day light. because the Public Relations continued to ensure that a fresh attack that came less Audullahi Sabo with life and Mohammed, a yet-to-be An eyewitness told THISDAY Officer of the Niger State it supported the Vigilante, than a month after seven people empty bullets were recovered. How Otedola Saved My Life – Ex-Nigerian International The Femi Otedola Foundation to his aid, revealed that the Ibom state government, would now, but I walk with the aid of of the Nigeria Premier League Peter Fregene, veteran actor has given a lifeline to former Otedola foundation defrayed not even reply to my appeals. a walking stick. The hospital is side Akwa United added Victor Alaotan, the late Majek Nigerian international and his medical bills. I resigned to fate, waiting for now carrying out conservative that Otedola's foundation's Fashek, and the late Sadiq Aba, football coach Charles Bassey. "Thanks to Femi Otedola, the worst." management of my ailing intervention in his health crisis among others. He is currently receiving I can walk again. I could The ex-Nigerian international spinal cord. The treatment will was a lifeline. "He is a godsend, and treatment for a spinal cord not move on my own. I was also disclosed that he could last for six months. I was told Otedola, chairman of Geregu I wished there were more problem at the Ibom Specialist helpless as countless letters I now walk with the current I would be able to walk again, Power Plc, is reputed for Nigerians like him. I am still Hospital Uyo. wrote seeking help yielded treatment regime he is unaided. This has been paid providing financial assistance to in shock for what he has done Bassey, bedridden until the nothing," said Bassey. "Even receiving. for upfront by the foundation." former Nigerian coach Christian for many other Nigerians and billionaire businessman came my state government, the Akwa Bassey added, "I can walk The former technical director Chukwu, ex-Nigeria goalkeeper me," said Bassey. SUNDAY MAY 23, 2021 • THISDAY 11 12 ͺͻ˜ͺ͸ͺ͹˾THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER NEWS Profiles in Courage...Died in Service to Fatherland On Friday, May 21, some 11 military officers and men, led by the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen.Ibrahim Attahiru, paid the supreme price in service to fatherland, when a military air plane conveying them on an official assignment, crashed near the Kaduna International Airport, . While many of them had largely functioned behind the scenes of war theatre and in different capacities, the goal remained one: to secure the nation from the claws of vicious non-state actors. Thus, in honour of the memories of these gallant officers, who passed away in the line of duty, Kingsley Nwezeh provides short profiles on them, albeit, in excellence. Died in Service to Fatherland chain of command in the Nigerian Army. Brigadier-General Olatunji, who was born Fl-Lt on August 15, 2019. Olufade bagged Prominent among these appointments were January 13, 1970 was from Ikorodu, Lagos a bachelor of science degree in accounting On Friday, May 21, some 11 military officers Commanding Officer 146 Battalion Nigerian State. He was the Provost Marshall of the from the Nigeria Defence Academy (NDA). and men, led by the Chief of Army Staff, Army (Operation Harmony IV) in the Bakassi Nigerian Army and also received a medal He was only recently married. Lt. Gen.Ibrahim Attahiru, paid the supreme Peninsula, Commander 13 Brigade Nigerian of honour from the United Nations. price in service to fatherland, when a Army (Operation Pulo Shield), and General Flight-Lieutenant Taiwo Olufemi military air plane conveying them on an Officer Commanding 82 Division Nigerian Brigadier-General Abdulrahman Asaniyi official assignment, crashed near the Kaduna Army. Kuliya International Airport, Kaduna State. While He was a one-time Theatre Commander Operation Lafiya Doke (the counter-terrorism Flight Lieutenant Olufemi Asaniyi was many of them had largely functioned behind He was the Acting Chief of Military born on February 25, 1992 in Ibadan, Oyo the scenes of war theatre and in different and counter-insurgency outfit in Northeastern Intelligence. Born on February 2, 1968 from State. He joined the Nigerian Air Force on capacities, the goal remained one: to secure Nigeria. It is on record that he brought relative Kano, he rose to the rank of Brigadier-General August 14, 2010. the nation from the claws of vicious non-state stability to the region with the surrender of on September 10, 2017. He became pilot officer on 12 September actors. Thus, in honour of the memories of several Boko Haram combatants. He holds a bachelor of science degree in 12, 2015, before being promoted to the rank these gallant officers, who passed away in While he held sway as staff officer, he was mathematics and masters degree in national of Flight-Lieutenant on August 14, 2020. the line of duty, Kingsley Nwezeh provides unit Adjutant, 7 Battalion Nigerian Army, resource strategy as well as strategy and Olufade had a bachelor of science degree in short profiles on them, albeit, in excellence. Serti, Chief of Staff, 1 Brigade Nigerian Army security administration. Biology from the Sokoto, General Staff Officer Grade 1 Training/ (NDA). He was married about two months Lieutenant-General Ibrahim Operations as well as staff Duties/Plans at Major Lawal Aliyu Hayat ago and loved singing and reading. Attahiru Headquarters 1, 2 and 81 Divisions of the Nigerian Army. Major Lawal Aliyu Hayat hailed from Zaria Sergeant Umar Saidu He was Deputy Director Military Secretary Local Government Area of Kaduna State. A Nigerian Army Lieutenant-General, Attahiru 2 at the AHQ MS (A) and one-time Director Ibrahim served as the 25th Chief of Army He was born April 11, 1979. Sergeant Umar Saidu was from Das Local Army Public Relations and Spokesperson He was promoted to the rank of major Goment Area of Bauchi State. Staff of the Nigerian Army from 26 January of the Nigerian Army and later director, until his death on May 21, 2021, in a military on September 27, 2017. He was born on December 11, 1985. staff duties and Deputy Chief of Policy and Late Major Hayat bagged a bachelor of He enlisted in the Nigerian Army in plane crash near Kaduna International Airport, Plans at the Army Headquarters. Kaduna State. science degree in economics and accounting 2006 and was posted to the Army Corps Born on 10 August 1966 in Doka, Kaduna He was equally privileged to serve as Chief and held several command positions. of military police afterwards. Sergeant Umar North Local Government Area, Kaduna State, of Defence Transformation and Innovation was promoted to the rank of sergeant in Attahiru was a graduate of the Nigerian and Chief of Defence Logistics at the apex Major Nura Hamza 2017 and served as orderly to the Chief of Defence Academy, Armed Forces Command organ of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, Defence Army Staff. and Staff College, and Nigerian Army School Headquarters Abuja. Major Nura Hamza was born on November of Infantry. In that position, he worked with the US 20, 1979 in . He hailed from Gusau Sergeant Adesina Isaiah He commenced officer cadet training in Defence Logistics Agency on the Vertically Local Government Area of . January 1984 and was commissioned as a Integrated Logistics Approach (VILA) He attended Bayero University, Kano from Sergeant Adesina Opeyemi Isaiah was born Second Lieutenant in December 1986 as an Programme towards enhancing the operational 1999 to 2003, where he obtained a Bachelor on April 1989 in Kaduna State. Infantry Officer. He held a Masters's degree readiness in the Armed Forces of Nigeria. of science degree in economics. He was recruited into the Nigerian Air in Strategic Management and Policy Studies Major Hamza also bagged a master’s Force on November 2, 2012. He was promoted from the Nigerian Defence Academy. He Brigadier-General Mohammed degree in economics, business administration corporal on November 2, 2012 and became also attained a Masters of Science in Human Abdulkadir and was an associate member of National sergeant in September 2016. Resources Management and Development Accountants of Nigeria (NAN). He became from Salford University in the United Born on April 19, 1971 in Kaduna, the late a Major on December 2, 2015 and was in Aircraftman Oyedepo Matthew Kingdom. He was also a Graduate Diploma Brig-Gen Mohammed Idris Abdulkadir hailed office as acting deputy director of finance in International Studies from the University from Niger State. He was the Chief of Staff before his death. He was born on March 20, 1998 in Osun of Nairobi, Kenya. to the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General State. Aircraftman Oyedepo Olamide Matthew The late army chief had a tour of duty at the Ibrahim Attahiru. Flight-Lieutenant Alfred Ayodeji joined Nigeria Air Force as non-tradesman. United Nations in as a military He became a Brigadier-General on August Olufade He was granted the rank as aircraft technician. observer, where he facilitated United Kingdom 17, 2017. He received many honours including After he completed his basic military military engagement Operation BARASS in the United Nations operations medal and training at the Military Training Centre in Flight Lieutenant Alfred Ayodeji Olufade Kaduna, he was posted to 203 Intelligence, September 2000. He was an operations officer others from the Nigerian Army. hailed from Ijumu Local Government Area and later company commander in NIBATT Surveillance and Reconnaissance Group in of .He was born on February 19, Yola, and later to Abuja before he died. 19 ECOMOG operations in Liberia. Brigadier-General Olatunji 1992. He had the unique privilege of having The Airforce described him as "obedient Olayinka He joined the Nigerian Airforce on August and dedicated". commanded with distinction all through the 15, 2009 and was promoted to the rank of EU to Remove Ghana from Money Laundering Countries Considers Ghana as a Manufacturing Hub for Covid-19 Vaccines Tobi Soniyi Risk Guide. Vadis Dombrovskis, the Nigeria from its list of The Nigerian Financial UK list of high-risk third The statement said that commission indicated the high-risk countries for Intelligence Unit, however, countries for the purposes European Union has the EU acknowledged the selection of Ghana as a money laundering. The list, announced that Nigeria was of enhanced customer due announced plans to remove efforts made by Ghana in possible manufacturing comprising 21 countries, was officially withdrawn from the diligence requirements,” an Ghana from the list of this regard and has decided hub for Covid-19 vaccines released as part of post-Brexit list by the Council of Europe explanatory note attached to countries that are deficient to remove the country from in Africa. developments. on March 5, 2019. the regulation read. anti-money laundering and the list of the countries that This, according to the Until the end of the Brexit Ghana, Senegal, Iran Regulation 2 substitutes for terrorism financing. are deficient anti-money commission follows the transition period, the list and Morocco are among the definition of “high-risk The decision to remove laundering and terrorism initiatives already taken by of high-risk countries was the countries listed in the third country” in regulation Ghana from the list followed financing. the Government of Ghana determined by the European UK’s Money Laundering 33(3)(a) of the MLRs a a two-day working visit by "It is expected that the towards the domestic Union under the 4th Anti and Terrorist Financing definition which refers to the President of Ghana, Nana Financial Action Task manufacturing of vaccines. Money Laundering Directive. (Amendment) (High-Risk the list of countries in this Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo Force, the global money The statement said However, from January 1, Countries) Regulations Schedule, rather than to the to Brussels, Belgium from laundering and terrorist taskforce teams from the 2021, the UK has had its own 2021 which took effect on list in Commission Delegated the 19th to 20th May, 2021. financing watchdog, will, EU and Ghana will meet standalone list. Since then, March 26. Regulation (EU) 2016/1675 of A statement by the Acting in June 2021, announce that shortly to discuss modalities any amendments made by Others include Syria, 14th July 2016 supplementing Director of Communications, Ghana has been taken off towards the realization of the European Union to its list Uganda, Zimbabwe and Directive (EU) 2015/849 of Office of the President of its list of high risk , third this initiative. do not have effect in the UK. Pakistan. the European Parliament and Ghana, Eugene Arhin said world countries with strategic The Ghanian president had The EU had in March 2019 “These Regulations amend of the Council by identifying Akufo-Addo met with the deficiencies in Anti-money already secured one hundred added Nigeria to countries on the Money Laundering, high-risk third countries President of the European Laundering and Countering and seventy million euros its “dirty money blacklist”. Terrorist Financing with strategic deficiencies Council Charles Michel where of Terrorism Financing", the (€170 million) from EIB for The EU said the nations in and Transfer of Funds (“the CDR”). It also makes he intimated the EU with statement added. the establishment of the this category pose a threat (Information on the Payer) a consequential amendment efforts of his government in The statement also said Development Bank, Ghana. because of lax controls on Regulations 2017 (S.I. to a further reference to the implementing the action plan that the Vice President of Last month, United terrorism financing and 2017/692) (“the MLRs”) to CDR. Regulation 3 revokes of the International Country the European Commission, Kingdom exempted money laundering. insert as Schedule 3ZA a new the CDR.” SUNDAY MAY 23, 2021 • THISDAY 13 14 ͺͻ˜ͺ͸ͺ͹˾THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER IMAGES FROM THE FUNERAL

L-R: Senator ; Inspector General of Police, Usman Alkali Baba; Senator ; Governor, Babagana Zulum; Chief of Staff to President , Alh. Ibrahim Gambari; Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Abubakar Sa’ad III; and Senate President, Ahmad Ibrahim Lawan at the National Mosque, Abuja, offering prayers for the souls of the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen Ibrahim Attahiru and other fallen officers... yesterday

Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Oladayo Amao (L) and SGF, Boss Mustapha at the Funeral Chief of Defence Staff, Maj. Gen. Lucky Irabor, paying his last respect Service for the air crash victims in Abuja... yesterday

L-R: Minister of Information, Lai Muhammed, Minister of Defence, Bashir Magashi, Senate President Ahmad Ibrahim Lawan, Chief of Staff to President Muhammadu Buhari, Alh. Ibrahim Gambari, Chief of Defense Staff, Gen. Lucky Irabor and Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Awwal Gambo on Saturday at the Military Cemetery, Abuja

Magashi (middle), Gambari (4th right) Sa’ad Abubakar (3rd right), Lawan (2nd right), Zulum (4th left) offering prayers for the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen Ibrahim Attahiru Toyin Olayinka, wife of late Brig Gen Olayinka, being consoled by relatives and other fallen officers

Gift Adeshina, wife of Sgt Adesina, one of the victims of the air crash with her baby and relatives Mrs Olufade wife of Flt Lt A A Olufade who got married two months ago being consoled by relatives ͺͻ˜ͺ͸ͺ͹˾THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER 15 NEWS BUHARI: ATTAHIRU WAS A BRAVE SOLDIER WHO LED FROM THE FRONT

Army Officers carrying the casket bearing the remains of the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen Ibrahim Attahiru, who died in the ill-fated NAF Aircraft in Kaduna ˾See more images on page 14 Our Correspondents to the families of the departed officers and men sacrifice our military officers, men and women in front lines in peace building efforts. and all Nigerians. of the other ranks are often prepared to make." President Muhammadu Buhari, yesterday, praised Irabor, who said the death of the army His three-paragraph statement stated further: Sanwo-Olu: A Dutiful, Committed the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Ibrahim chief and other personnel was a sad day for "I received with great sadness the news of an Attahiru, for his gallantry in the war against the military, described the late army chief as a air crash involving the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Soldier Is Gone insurgency and described him as a military chief, reliable, professional colleague. He recalled the General Ibrahim Attahiru, and other officers of who led from the front. time both of them served at the army's Training the Nigerian military yesterday. Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has Speaking at the burial of the fallen officers and and Doctrine Command in Minna. “We honour the service of the Army Chief and described the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General men, President Buhari, who said it was a sad "I called him my second in command. We had all those involved in this unfortunate accident Ibrahim Attahiru, as a dutiful and committed day for Nigeria, hinted that the late army chief dreams to take the military to greater heights. even as we continue to demonstrate our profound soldier, who served Nigeria passionately. was appointed as successor to Lt. Gen. Tukur This is what we were doing when we were called appreciation to all in our military services and in Commiserating with President Muhammadu Buratai, because of his bravery. by the defence minister to report to Abuja. He harm's way. The gallantry of this heroes would Buhari and the Nigerian Army over the death of In the same vein, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, has left at a time he was needed most", he said. always be remembered. the 21stArmy chief, Sanwo-Olu also sympathised who joined millions of people across the world The defence chief said the military establishment “I join the President and Commander-in-Chief with families, friends and associates of the late to mourn the passing of Attahiru and others mourned with the families of the army chief of the to commiserate Chief of Army Staff as well as other victims of said, their deaths in service reflected the depth and others. with families, friends and colleagues of these the unfortunate crash. of their sacrifice. "We say to you, weep not for the sacrifices gallant officers and men, who died in the crash. In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, This is as former President Goodluck Jonathan, of our colleagues will not be in vain", he said, I pray that God grants them the fortitude to Gboyega Akosile, Sanwo-Olu praised the late in a message of condolence to the families of the assuring them that the president and the military bear the loss. May the memories of the departed Attahiru's contributions to Nigeria's efforts in deceased officers, described them as patriots, would continue to support them, adding that remain ever blessed." the war against insurgency, saying the country who died with their boots on. the the military remained undaunted by the Jonathan, in his message of condolence to would miss the rich experience and knowledge But the Borno State Governor, Professor development with regards to its fight against the families of the deceased said, “I extend my of the late Army General. Babangana Zulum, said the late chief of army criminal elements. condolences to the Commander-in-Chief, President “On behalf of the Government and people staff was evidently committed to the fight against "The armed forces remained undaunted. The Muhammadu Buhari, Nigerian Armed Forces of Lagos State, I want to express my heartfelt Boko Haram and was determined to significantly war against insecurity must be won. For the and the families of Lt. Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru, condolences to President Muhammadu Buhari, contribute to ending the insurgency. military, let's march to defend the country from the late Chief of Army Staff and other military Vice President, Prof Yemi Osinbajo, the Nigerian In his remarks, the Chief of Defence Staff, all forms of security threats", he said. officers, who died on Friday in an air crash in Army, families, friends and associates of the late General Lucky Irabor, who said the death of Earlier in his remarks at the funeral service held Kaduna State. Lt. General Ibrahim Attahiru and other officers, the army chief and other personnel was a sad at the the Nigerian Airforce Protestant Church, Bill “The death of these officers is a national tragedy, who were involved in the unfortunate air crash. day for the military, however, promised that Clinton Drive, Airport Road, Abuja, Secretary to as the victims were patriots, who died with their “The late Lt. General Ibrahim Attahiru will sacrifices of the deceased would not be in vain. the Government of the Federation (SGF), Mr. Boss boots on, in our collective quest for peace and be sorely missed by Nigerians, especially, at this The late army chief and ten other military Mustapha, spoke in tandem with the Chaplain security. May God console the families of all the period when the country is intensifying the fight officers, who died in an air crash in Kaduna, of the church, Group Captain Dogo Gani, whose bereaved and restore unto them strength and against insurgency and other criminal elements in while on official assignment, were laid to rest sermon was on the topic: "Confidence in God". peace.” different parts of the country,” Sanwo-Olu said, at the National Military Cemetery, Abuja, at a "The chaplain said that our confidence is In his comment, Zulum said Attahiru was praying God to grant the deceased eternal rest ceremony attended by the Senate President, domicille in God. We urge the families to have evidently committed to the fight against Boko and the families they left behind, the fortitude Dr. Ahmed Lawan; Governor of Kaduna State, confidence in God. The God in heaven that Haram and was determined to significantly to bear the irreplaceable losses. Mallam Nasir el-Rufai and the Chief of Staff to watched this happen will be with you and keep contribute to ending the insurgency. the President, Prof. Ibrahim Gambari. you", he said. “The commitment of the late chief of army staff Fayemi: He Was Patriotic, Fearless Others were the Governor of , Mai He also told the Chief of the Air Staff, Air to the fight against Boko Haram was very obvious. Mala Buni; Minister of Defence, Bashir Magashi; the Marshal Oladayo Amao, who had earlier expressed Within the short time he served, he had been to Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi, has Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar; sadness on the loss of the officers, to be confident. Borno on multiple occasions, meeting operational described the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Inspector General of Police, Usman Alkali baba "I know that CAS will be asking himself, why commanders and troops at battle fronts. In all his Ibrahim Attahiru, as a patriotic and fearless officer, and the Comptroller General of Immigration, is this happening under my watch. Be confident interactions, he regularly motivated troops. The who was always ready go the extra mile to protect Muhammed Babandede, amongst other serving in God. Don't doubt God", he said. people of Borno thank him and all our gallant the sovereignty of his beloved country, a quality and former public office holders, top military Director, Chaplaincy Protestant Church, Nigerian fallen heroes for their unquantifiable service to he said was the hallmark of his military career. officers, families, friends and associates of the Air Force, Group Capt. Gani, who spoke at the Borno and rest of Nigeria” Zulum said. While condoling with families of other military deceased. funeral service for the fallen officers, warned Zulum was however joined by his predecessor, personnel in the air crash Friday, a situation he The senior military officers, who died in the Nigerians against undue confidence in riches Senator Kashim Shettima, Senator Abubakar described as a national tragedy, the Governor crash include the army chief, Attahiru, Brig-General and position, which he said could lead to Kyari and other top dignitaries and hundreds said it was a black Friday for the country as 11 Idris Abdulkadir, Brig Gen Olayinka, Brigadier- disappointment. of sympathizers for the jana’iza (funeral prayers) gallant officers fell, making the third of such General Kuliya, ADC to the late COAS, Major Gani, who anchored his sermon on Psalm 23, in honour ofAttahiru. disaster involving military aircrafts in the last LA Hayat, Major Hamza and Sergeant Umar. warned against undue confidence in riches and Bodies of the late COAS and five others were few months. The list of the crew members are Flight. Lt. position,which could lead to disappointment. He brought by military ambulances to the national Fayemi, in a statement by his Chief Press T.O Asaniyi, Flt. Lt. AA Olufade, Sgt Adesina urged the families of the departed, the armed mosque for the funeral prayers that took place Secretary, Olayinka Oyebode, said the late General and ACM Oyedepo. forces and Nigerians to put their confidence in immediately after zuhr prayers. Attahiru, who resumed office as COAS in January, Buhari, who was represented by the Minister the Lord. The fallen officers were given the traditional brought in a fresh hope in the fight against insecurity of Defence, Major General Bashir Magashi (rtd), "No matter the challenge, the situation, don't give 21-gun salute, amidst a mammoth crowd of and insurgency in the country, adding that the said the army chief and the officers served the up. Our Lord is willing and able", he reassured. sympathisers, before the interment which took COAS’ determination had emboldened the military nation gallantly. Osinbajo, who was said to have received the place at 4:15pm. Each fallen personnel including personnel and spurred them on to reclaim some "Lieutenant General Attahiru was an epitome news of the mishap with great sadness, however, the late army chief were buried by their course territories hitherto lost to the terrorists. of gallantry and bravery which culminated in his said the gallantry of the deceased officers would mates and service chiefs. The Ekiti State Governor said he was not being appointed the chief of army staff. always be remembered. The late chief of army staff had since his surprised at the feat recorded by Attahiru within "He led the Nigerian Army from the front and In a statement by his Senior Special Assistant appointment, been to Borno state more than six his very short stint as COAS, stressing that the was emulated by others. He will be remembered on Media and Publicity, Laolu Akande, Osinbajo times, to supervise ongoing military operations deceased had earlier proven his worth in previous for his landmark contributions to the unity of the said,"Their death while in active service in the against Boko Haram. He had visited different nation", he said, expressing his heartfelt condolences defense of our country reflects the depth of army formations, mobilised and motivated troops Continued on page 16 16 ͺͻ˜ͺ͸ͺ͹˾THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER NEWS BUHARI: ATTAHIRU WAS A BRAVE SOLDIER WHO LED FROM THE FRONT assignments including as Commander of the Operation Lafia Dole in the North East. Fayemi, however, prayed God to console the families of the COAS and 10 other military personnel,who died in the crash and grant them the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss. “The Government and good people of Ekiti State express deep condolences to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Nigerian Armed forces, President Mohammadu Buhari, immediate and extended family members of the late General Attahiru and other military officers, who died in the crash. “We also pray Almighty Allah to grant the families of dear departed the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss,” the governor said. It’s a Sad Day in Nigeria’s History, Say Northern Governors The Northern Governors Forum has expressed shock over the death of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru and his entourage in an ill-fated air crash in Kaduna, describing the incident as sad history in the country. Chairman of the Forum and Governor of , Simon Lalong in a statement said the forum was distressed that the Army Chief and other officers and men of the Nigerian armed forces died while on official assignment in the course of advancing the security and peace of the country. Lalong lamented that the country has lost patriotic Nigerians, who gave their lives to the defence of the territorial integrity of the country, and also ensured that its citizens lived in peace and security. He said, "Lt. Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru was a committed soldier, whose passion for defending Nigeria was very clear throughout his military career even before his appointment as the Chief Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, sympathising with one of the widows of the military officers, who died along with late Chief of of Army Staff. Since his appointment, we have Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru, in the ill-fated NAF Aircraft, during the burial at the Military Cemetery in Abuja... yesterday engaged him as Northern Governors Forum and individually as governors towards enhancing the security and safety of our states, region and the eternal rest and their families the strength to Attahiru, Others as I am aware of his hard work and tour to nation at large. bear the losses. states across the federation in a bid to find a "Within the few months he held sway, we have Members of the House of Representatives have lasting solution to the security challenges facing seen improvements and high resolve to bringing It’s Devastating, Says Niger expressed sadness over the death of Chief of the country. It is unfortunate that this is coming an end to insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and Governor Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru and his at a time, when the country's service chiefs are other criminal activities. We had been working entourage in an air crash in Kaduna. doing everything possible to win the war against on consolidating this before this tragic incident Niger State Governor, Alhaji Abubakar Sani Bello, Speaker of the House, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, insurgency in Nigeria. This is painful and shocking, that took his life and that of others working with has described the death of the Chief of Army in a statement described as shocking and sad as I condole with President Muhammadu Buhari, him. We are highly shocked and pained". Staff,Lt General Ibrahim Attaihiru and 11 other the death Attahiru and others involved in the the Military, Nigerian Army and Airforce.'' While condoling President Muhammadu Buhari, officers in a plane crash in Kaduna on Friday plane crash. the Nigerian Army, families of the deceased as "very devastating to the nation at its trying Gbajabiamila said the death of the Army Chief …Lawan, Ekweremadu Too, Say officers and men, as well as the entire Nigerian moment of insecurity", saying he received the was unfortunate coming at a time the Nigerian It’s a National Disaster Armed Forces, the governors said the sad event news with "deep shock". military was finding solutions to the security challenges in the country. was regrettable but should not deter the Armed In a statement made available to newsmen in President of the Senate, Dr and Forces from giving their best in the service of the Minna yesterday, the governor added that, "The He said having taken over from the immediate past Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Tukur a former Deputy President of the, Senator Ike nation just as the deceased COAS, officers and death of COAS and others came at a time, when Ekweremadu, have described the Friday air crash men did before their tragic death. the newly appointed Chief of Army Staff along Buratai, a couple of months ago, Attahiru has shown a lot of commitment in tackling the security that claimed the lives of the Chief of Army Staff with other service chiefs had developed renewed (COAS), Lt General Ibrahim Attahiru and ten Buni: Attahiru’s Death, a National Loss efforts in tackling insecurity in the country. situation in the country. He said the Nigerian military, especially, the other soldiers as a national disaster. "The late Chief of Army Staff has within his The ranking Senators, in separate condolence Yobe State Governor, Mai-Mala Buni has described short time in office demonstrated and showed Nigeria Army, has lost a dedicated and committed senior officer, whose services to fatherland will messages on Saturday, said the incident has thrown the death of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. remarkable commitment and professionalism in the entire nation into mourning. Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru and the other senior military the course of discharging his duty", Bello said be sorely missed. The Speaker sent his condolences to President Lawan, while expressing deep sadness over officers in an air crash as a great national loss. in the statement. the tragic death of General Attahiru, and other Buni, who is also the Chairman of the He, therefore, urged the family, the Nigerian Muhammadu Buhari, the Nigerian military, and the Attahiru family over the loss. military officers killed in the Kaduna air crash, All Progressives Congress (APC) Caretaker Army, friends and associates to accept the deaths described the incident as a national disaster of Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee, as "the will of Allah and bear the irreparable loss Deputy Speaker, Hon. Idris Wase, on his part said, he was pained by the tragic loss of the immense proportion. in a statement on Saturday by his spokesman, with equanimity". He said: "I extend my heartfelt condolences to Mallam Mamman Mohammed, said he was shocked, gallant officers, who had served the nation with honour and dignity. the Chief of Defence Staff and the entire members heartbroken and saddened by the unfortunate of the Armed Forces of Nigeria over this tragedy. air crash that claimed the lives of the Chief of A Gallant Warrior Just Passed, He also commiserated with the president, the Nigerian Military and the families of the deceased, This incident is saddening, coming at a time there Army staff, Lt. Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru and other Say PDP Governors is a fresh momentum in the nation's war against military officers. and prayed to Almighty Allah to grant the departed Governors elected on the platform of the Peoples souls eternal rest. insurgency, banditry and other violent crimes. He said: "The demise of these top military "The Chief of Army Staff and the other officers officers at this moment, when Nigeria needs Democratic Party (PDP), yesterday, mourned the Also, the Minority Caucus of the House in a death of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Attahiru statement issued by its leader, Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, gave their lives for the security and unity of Nigeria their services most, is indeed a great loss to the and will be remembered as heroes in the history army and Nigeria and the people of the country. Ibrahim and some other members of the Armed said the lawmakers were grief-stricken by this Forces in an unfortunate aircraft crash on Friday huge tragedy, demanding a full scale investigation of the country. "I, therefore, condole with His Excellency President "I commiserate with the President and Muhammadu Buhari GCFR, the Vice President in Kaduna State, saying the nation just lost a into the unfortunate incident . gallant warrior. The caucus, described Attahiru and the other Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Prof. Yemi Osibanjo, the Nigeria Army and the Muhammadu Buhari and the families of the families of the deceased officers.” A statement by the chairman of the PDP officers as courageous and patriotic soldiers, who governors, Hon. Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, stated: gave all in the defence of our dear fatherland. deceased over the tragic incident and wish the Buni also described the death of the officers as departed souls eternal peace". fallen heroes, who laid their lives for the service of "It is most painful that this tragedy is coming at The caucus charged the military not to be a time the Army Chief is leading the war against weighed down by the tragic event but to remain In his condolence message, Ekweremadu the country, optimistic that Nigeria would overcome described the late Army Chief and the other soldiers her security challenges and emerge victorious. insecurity in the land, having just recently taken focused and undeterred so as to ensure that the command of the Nigerian Army. This is a very heroes did not die in vain. as patriots, who gave their best to fatherland, He said: “The Nigerian Army should re-dedicate adding that the deaths were a heavy loss to the itself to defeat the security challenges as a mark sad loss and a huge blow to our nation and her The House Committee on Army, while expressing effort to secure the nation", he said. deep shock to the tragic news, said Attahiru was an nation. of honour and respect to the deceased Chief of “What a dark Friday it was for the entire nation. Army Staff and the other fallen officers." The chairman of the PDP governors also said late energetic officer, who was committed to improving General Attahiru served the nation with dedication, the security of the country, especially, prosecuting The late Lieutenant General Attahiru was a man Ortom: It’s Shocking, Painful skill, gallantry, and total commitment, employing the war against insurgency. of high professional pedigree and his experience, his long years of experience and expertise in the The Committee, in a statement by its Chairman, leadership qualities, and patriotism stood him out. This is, therefore, a grievous loss to the Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom, has described service of his fatherland. Hon. Abdulrazak Namdas said, in his brief stay He prayed God to rest his soul and those of in office as the COAS, the late Attahiru had a entire nation. the death of Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General “My heart goes out to his family and the families Ibrahim Attahiru, in an air crash as shocking and his colleagues, who died in the aircraft and also rolled-out plan on how to defeat Boko Haram God forgive them their sins, noting that death and bring under control, other security threats, of other deceased compatriots, the Nigerian painful. Army, the armed forces, and the President and The governor, in a press statement by his media is inevitable for all mortals. which the country faced in recent years. The PDP governors also commiserated with The committee lamented that it was unfortunate Commander-in-Chief, Muhammadu Buhari”, aide, Mr Terver Akase, said the loss of Attahiru Ekweremadu said. and the other military officers on board the aircraft President Muhammadu Buhari, the Nigerian that Attahiru did not live to see to the successful was a major setback to the fight against insecurity Army, the entire Armed Forces, and Nigeria execution of his counter-terrorism strategies. in the country. for this sudden and irreparable loss. The House Committee on Airforce also expressed Obaseki: He Brought Skills, He stated that the late Chief of Army Staff "We admonish the Military and all security sadness over the tragic death of Attahiru and Expertise, Experience to Bear demonstrated commitment to tackling the wave Agencies to redouble their efforts to vanquish other gallant officers. of insecurity since assuming office earlier this year. insecurity in Nigeria as a fitting tribute to the The Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Shehu The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki Ortom, therefore, sympathised with President departed Chief, as we pledge our continued Koko, in a statement said the news came to him has mourned the passing of Nigeria's Chief of Muhammadu Buhari, the Nigerian Army and support to the Nigerian Armed Forces and Security as a shock, having embarked on an official duty Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru, saying he the bereaved families. Agencies", the PDP governors maintained. to Makurdi, Benue State on Thursday with the brought skills, expertise and experience to bear He prayed God to grant the soul of Attahiru late chief of army staff. as well as those of the other military officers ''The news of the crash is still a shock to me House Mourns Army Chief, Continued on page 17 ͺͻ˜ͺ͸ͺ͹˾THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER 17 NEWS BUHARI: ATTAHIRU WAS A BRAVE SOLDIER WHO LED FROM THE FRONT in the fight against insurgency. Marwa, who sent his condolence message “Their untimely and sad departure hurts. of the FEC to President Muhammadu Buhari, In a statement, Obaseki expressed shock and from Vienna, Austria, where he was attending However, we owe it to them and to the nation members of the defence and security forces as sadness over the unfortunate incident, praying a meeting of the United Nations Commission on to gather our strength and fortitude. We must well as government and people of Kaduna State. God to grant the repose of their souls. Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice, recalled gird ourselves that we finish the job to which Particularly, he commiserated with families "We pray for the repose of the souls of those, his recent meeting with Gen. Attahiru and said they dedicated and gave their lives. of the departed heroes and prayed to God to who lost their lives in the unfortunate incident he was impressed with the late Army Chief’s “Let us remember these brave patriots not grant them comfort and peace of mind at these and admonish the military to continue with the plans to tackle the security challenges confronting with our tears but by achieving victory over trying times. patriotic efforts to secure the country. the country. the terrorism and violence that seek to rob our "Lt. Gen. Attahiru served Nigeria meritoriously, “The nation will miss Gen. Attahiru and the nation of its finest destiny. Let this unfortunate FCT Minister Mourns Attahiru bringing his skill, experience and expertise to bear other gallant officers, who died in active service. accident not deter us but spur us and our valiant in prosecuting the war against terror. I recall my recent meeting with him at the Army military to continue to defend this land from The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Malam "He will always be remembered for his gallantry, Headquarters, where I was impressed with his violence and evil.” Muhammad Musa Bello, has expressed sadness commitment to service and dedication to our patriotism and plans for tackling the myriad over the death of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. fatherland," Obaseki said. security challenges facing our country. PDP Mourns, Demands Probe Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru and 10 other members “This is a great loss for Nigeria. Our condolences of the Nigerian Armed Forces in a plane crash He Died When His Services Were go to his family, the Nigerian Army and also into Military Plane Crashes that occurred in Kaduna on Friday. to the families of the other gallant officers and In a statement issued yesterday on behalf of Badly Needed, Says Uzodimma men in his entourage as well as the flight crew, The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has said the FCT Administration and residents of the FCT, who died in the crash. May their souls rest in though it was grieved by the death of the Chief the minister extended his deepest condolences to Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, peace”, he stated. of Army Staff (COAS) Lt. Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru President Muhammadu Buhari, the Minister of has expressed shock and regret over the death and other officers in a military plane crash on Defence, Maj. Gen Bashir Magashi, the Chief of ofNigeria’s Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. They Died as Heroes, Say Mark, Friday, it however demanded a probe into constant Defence Staff, Gen. Lucky Irabor, the Chief of Air Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru and 10 others, who lost military plane crashes in the country. Staff, Air Vice Marshall Isiaka Amao, the officers their lives Friday when an Air Force Kingair 350 Saraki, Omo-Agege In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, and men of the Nigerian Army and Nigerian plane crashed near the Kaduna airport runway, Mr. Kola Ologbondiyan, the party described Gen. Airforce as well as the families of the deceased. saying the COAS met his untimely death when Two former Presidents of the Senate, Senator Attahiru and the other officers as heroes, who He prayed for the repose of the souls of the his services were badly needed. and Dr. and the current gave their lives for the security of the nation, departed, and for the Almighty to spare Nigeria Uzodimma, who described Attahiru as a gallant Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ovie adding that the tragic incident was a huge blow such a national tragedy in the future. and intelligent officer said, from the day he was Omo-Agege, have joined millions to mourn the to Nigeria. appointed COAS on January 26, 2021, he showed Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt General Ibrahim "Our party commiserates with the military high NEMA: It’s a Big Blow to Nigeria signs of capacity to deal with the rising cases of Attahiru and 10 other officers and men, who lost command, the families of Lt. General Attahiru insecurity in different parts of the country. their lives in the Kaduna air crash on Friday, and the other officers and men, who have paid The National Emergency Management Agency The governor, in a statement by his Chief saying they died as heroes. the supreme price for the security of our nation (NEMA) has commiserated with the Nigerian Press Secretary and Media Adviser Oguwike The trio in separate statements on Saturday and prays God to give them the fortitude to bear Army over the death its Chief of Army Staff Nwachuku,described the day the ill-fated plane described their deaths in service as reflecting their the loss", the PDP said. (COAS), Lt. Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru and 10 others, crashed as dark Friday, noting that Lt. Gen Attahiru’s commitment to national service which has now The opposition party, however, demanded an in an air crash, in Kaduna, on Friday. career trajectory indicated that of an officer, who made them heroes. extensive inquest into this military plane crash According to NEMA’s Director-General, AVM. was prepared to give his best to the country that In his condolence message, Mark described the as well as the last two in which lives of officers Muhammadu Muhammed (rtd.), “The untimely also gave him the opportunity to be the best he fallen officers as gallant, patriotic and heroes, who were lost. death of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.Gen. could be as a professional soldier. were committed to the Defence of the territorial The party urged Nigerians to be at alert and Ibrahim Attahiru, in an air crash in Kaduna, on Uzodimma regretted that Attahiru’s life and that integrity of Nigeria as well as the restoration of continue to pray for the fighting men and women, Friday, is a big blow to our country. It came at of his colleagues were cut short in such painful peace, unity and security of the nation. who are risking their lives at the front to secure a period our military forces are on the brink of manner, when their services were badly needed, Mark, is a retired Army Brigadier-General, the nation. ending the security challenges confronting our and urged Nigerians to uphold the families they lamented that the tragedy was not only dear nation.” have left behind in prayers. heartbreaking but one too many, noting that the AbdulRazaq: We’ll Never Forget The NEMA Director-General, in the statement by He said because the deceased COAS and his demise of the COAS and others at this time, when the Date Manzo Ezekiel, Head, Media and Public Relations, colleagues paid the ultimate price pursuing peace, their services were needed to rid the nation of also condoled with families of the other brave unity and security for the land in line of duty, security challenges was a huge setback. service men and air crew that perished in the crash patriotic Nigerians will forever remember their He however told the Nigerian Armed Forces Governor, Alhaji AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has described the death of 11 and prayed that Almighty God would console good works. not to be deterred by the incident but rather and strengthen them at this period. be spurred towards winning the war against military top brass, including the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. General Ibrahim Attahiru, in “To the grieving families of the service men NMA: Nigeria Has Lost a Rare Breed insurgency. and aircrew that died in the crash, we share your “The only way to immortalise the departed an air crash as a national tragedy, saying Nigeria would never forget the date. grief and pray that the Almighty God consoles The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has soldiers is to do all that is needed to win the war and strengthens you all,” he said. extended its condolences to President Muhammadu against insurgents and restore the citizens’ hope In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Rafiu Ajakaye, the governor said, "I join Abiodun: Winning the war would be greatest Buhari, the Nigerian Armed Forces and families of and confidence in the Armed Forces,” Mark said. tribute to memory of the departed the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Ibrahim In a two-paragraph statement, Saraki said, “As our compatriots worldwide to commiserate with the military establishment, especially, the Governor, Prince , Attahiru, and other officers who died in the fatal the nation mourns the passing of the Chief of condoles with President Muhammadu Buhari; plane crash, near Kaduna Airport on Friday, saying Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru and the Nigerian Army and the Nigerian Air Force, on this devastating development. family and friends of the Chief of Army Staff, the nation has lost a rare breed. ten military personnel that were onboard the Lt-Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru, and those of other In a condolence message jointly signed its aircraft that crashed in Kaduna, I send my deepest "It was indeed a black Friday for the fatherland. It is a date we will forever remember for the loss officers and men who died in the ill-fated plane president, Prof. Innocent. Ujah and Secretary and most heartfelt condolences to their families. crash that claimed 11 military officers on Friday. General, Dr. Philips Uche Ekpe, the association “Undoubtedly, this is a difficult loss for the entire of true heroes and a significant depletion in the ranks of the Nigerian military Governor Abiodun laments that these said it was particularly pained, bearing in mind Armed Forces, especially, at this time when we accomplished officers died while their services that the nation has lost a rare breed and one are confronted by insecurity on several fronts. It "On behalf of the people and government of Kwara State, I commiserate with President were most needed in the nation's search for peace of her most decorated intelligent tactical officer. is my prayer that Almighty Allah (SWT) grants and security. "The NMA joins other Nigerians in sharing the families and the Armed Forces the strength Muhammadu Buhari, the Chief of Defence Staff, the entire military establishment and the immediate "Notwithstanding their young ages, they served the pains and grief of the Presidency and other that is needed at this time.” meritoriously in the military and their untimely well-meaning Nigerians and prays that their souls Omo-Agege, on his part, described the death and extended families of the fallen officers of our great Armed Forces. exit is very painful", he said. find peace in God's Kingdom while praying for of General Attahiru as a personal loss to him just The governor commiserated with the Defence the families the fortitude to bear the irreplaceable as it is to the bereaved families and the entire "It is our prayers that God Almighty will spare our nation and indeed our world of a recurrence headquarters, other service chiefs and all officers loss," it said. nation, saying the loss of the Army Chief and and men of the Armed Forces, saying that losing 10 others was a rude shock and a great loss to of such calamities in the future. We pray for the repose the souls of these fine officers. We have no an army chief appointed only four months ago Fintiri: He Was Determined to the military hierarchy. is devastating. “I feel deeply saddened by the loss of this doubt in the resolve of the federal government to Change the Narrative unravel the causes of the devastating air accident He adds that the greatest tribute to the memory great friend and exemplary Nigerian in whom of the departed would be to win the war against President Muhammadu Buhari reposed so much with a view to preventing such occurrence in the Governor, Ahmadu Umaru future," the statement stated. insurgency and insecurity in the country, urging all trust and confidence about leading the gallant men to find comfort in the good works of the gallant Fintiri, has said the unfortunate demise of the and women of the Nigerian Army through the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Ibrahim officers. current challenges of insecurity towards making It’s a Moment of Grief and Sorrow, "Lt-Gen. Attahiru stood firm in defence of the Attahiru, has denied the nation of one of her Nigeria a safer place for us all,” he said. finest officers,who was determined to change Says Mustapha country's indivisibility. Nigeria will remember the narratives in the battle against the myriad him as one officer who held unto its indivisibility security challenges facing Nigeria. Tinubu: It’s an Unspeakable Loss Secretary to the Government of the Federation, until he breathed his last. In a press release by his Press Secretary, Mr. for Nigeria Mr. Boss Mustapha has described the death of the "Well decorated, level-headed, the deceased was Humwashi Wonosikou, the governor described late Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Ibrahim Attahiru a thoroughbred officer and gentleman who led the death as painful and shocking, such that One of the national leaders of the All Progressives and 10 other officers nda service members, who from the front, and will be sorely missed," he said. requested the nation's prayers. Congress (APC), Asiwaju , has described were killed in military plane crash in Kaduna on Governor Abiodun prays that the Almighty "I join the President and Commander-in-Chief the death of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Friday as a moment filled with sorrow and grief. God receives the souls as he leads the country in mourning 11 active and Lt. Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru, and 10 others in an Mustapha made the remarks yesterday at the finest Officers killed in a plane crash in Kaduna. air mishap in Kaduna on Friday is a tragic and church service for the five victims of the crash at Boss Mustapha: He was a Nigeria will never forget your services and always unspeakable loss for the nation. the Air Force Protestant Church, Airport Road, Forthright and Courageous Soldier honour them," he said. Tinubu, in a condolence message on Saturday Abuja, while delivering the message of President The statement said, "Fintiri regretted that the trip, by his Media Office in Abuja, condoled President Muhammadu Buhari on the altar. He expressed the government’s deepest The Secretary to the Government of the Federation which was supposed to be a Military assignment Muhammadu Buhari, the Nigerian Army, the (SGF), Boss Mustapha, yesterday also expressed claimed the lives of the Officers. These soldiers, Defence Headquarters and families of the deceased condolences and prayed for strength for the families of the deceased and the Nigerian Army his heartfelt condolences to the Nigerian Army, who have given their lives in service to protect military officers over the unfortunate incident. over the untimely death of its gallant Chief of the nation were taken far too soon. Their memory He said: “The death of the Chief of Army Staff at large to shoulder the loss. The SGF said: “Our safety is domiciled in Army Staff (COAS), in the Kaduna air crash, would endure through the life of our nation. (COAS), Lt. Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru, and 10 others on Friday. "It was love for country that inspired these in an air mishap in Kaduna on Friday is a tragic, the confidence of God. I extend the deepest condolences to the families of the late officers According to the SGF, “The Chief of Army Staff fallen heroes to put on the uniform and joined the unspeakable loss for the nation. (COAS), Lt.Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru was a forthright greatest Army Africa has ever known," he said. “COAS Lt. Gen. Attahiru and the others were and the entire members of the Nigerian Armed Forces,” he said. and courageous soldier whose professional career stalwarts and brave soldiers, who had dedicated stands him out as a committed and patriotic man. their careers, and now their very lives, in the Also, in a different statement issued from Nigeria Will Miss His Patriotism, his office yesterday, Mustapha said on behalf His sudden death in the Kaduna air crash on Friday service of this nation and toward the realisation represents a major setback for the nation’s renewed Says Marwa of the noble aspirations this nation represents. of members of the Federal Executive Council (FEC), he received with deep shock, the news fight against the existing security challenges. “COAS Attahiru had a most distinguished career. “As I commiserate with the Nigeria Army, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the The army and the nation will miss his excellent of the fatal air crash. National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), He expressed the consensus of all members of the his first constituency and his grieving family, character and fine leadership at this moment when I also condole with the families of the other Brig. General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd), has we are fighting terrorism or banditry in many FEC on the passion and professionalism with which described the death of Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Attahiru discharged the responsibilities courageous service men and air crew that died parts of the nation. Lt. Gen. Attahiru, just like the in the unfortunate crash.” General Ibrahim Attahiru and other senior officers others involved in this tragic incident, served his of his office especially, the prosecution of internal in a military plane crash in Kaduna on Friday security operations across the country, since his He prayed that the Almighty God grant his country with zeal and vigour. He was known soul, as well as other fallen servicemen’s, eternal as a great loss to the country. as a soldier's soldier. appointment in January, 2021. He also conveyed the condolences of members rest and comfort their families. 18 MAY 23, 2021 ˾THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA EDITORIAL Email [email protected] DEATH AND THE GENERALS There may be need to review aircraft maintenance schedules and operational procedures in the Air Force

t a solemn ceremony yesterday in runway after reporting engine failure. All the Abuja, the remains of the Chief seven passengers on board the aircraft died. On 31 March, an Alpha Jet aircraft (NAF475) of Army staff, Lt. Gen. Ibrahim went off the radar with two crew members Attahiru and 10 other officers who while on their way to offer air support for died on Friday in a plane crash in ground troops fighting Boko Haram insur- Kaduna were laid to rest. Their gents. The two pilots, both flight lieutenants death while in active service, with the air force, were later confirmed dead. according to Vice President Yemi rdinarily, we can assume a reason- Osinbajo, reflects the depth of sacrifice our military able level of professionalism before Aofficers are often prepared to make in defence of military officers are chosen for these our country. Attahiru, who spent just four months assignments that claimed their lives. Only the leadership of the Air Force in office was the second army chief to die in a plane canO attest to the level of maintenance of their crash after Lt. Col. Joseph Akaahan who was killed fleet of aircraft. But it is worrisome that the in a helicopter crash during the civil war in May lives of 20 senior officers of our armed forces 1968. would be terminated in plane crashes within However, with three fatal crashes by the mili- three months. While occasional air mishaps would qualify as accidents, a quick succession tary within a period of 90 days--claiming 20 fatali- of tragedies cannot be overlooked because they ties, all of them senior may indicate more fundamental problems. The While occasional officers of our armed challenge is to review aircraft maintenance forces--questions are schedules and operational procedures in the Air air mishaps being asked by critical Force, especially the experience and proficiency of their crew members involved in VIP move- would qualify stakeholders. As air ac- ments. In an atmosphere replete with security cidents go, the objects challenges, every aspect of the military’s tactical as accidents, a of blame usually range and logistical operations requires rigorous quick succession from human error, the review. vagaries of nature (i.e. Already, there are fears that the needlessly prolonged SUNDAY NEWSPAPER stay in office of former service chiefs which led to the of tragedies weather condition) and EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU premature and sometimes unjust retirement of several cannot be equipment malfunction. DEPUTY EDITORS OLAWALE OLALEYE, TOBI SONIYI experienced hands in the armed forces may now be While the details of taking its toll. In the last two Air Force plane crashes, overlooked the exact causes of this MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO the pilots in charge were young officers. Pilots get DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR KAYODE KOMOLAFE unfortunate accident better with age but in recent years, many senior officers because CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI were retired between ages 45 and 55 despite the invest- remain yet unknown, EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN ment made on them. Which country spends billions they may we join other Nigerians MANAGING EDITOR JOSEPH USHIGIALE training military human resources and just discard indicate more in mourning the loss of them the way we do in Nigeria? This is an area the General Attahiru and military authorities must investigate. Meanwhile, we hope the effect of these deaths on fundamental the other service men. THISDAY NEWSPAPERS LIMITED the morale and psych of our troops will not negatively We condole with their impact the ongoing military operations in the country. problems EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA families and the entire With the vacancy now created by the death of the GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, armed forces. army chief, President Muhammadu Buhari must act ISRAEL IWEGBU, IJEOMA NWOGWUGWU, EMMANUEL EFENI swiftly to appoint a replacement. The military is not In line with extant regulations, accident inves- DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS BOLAJI ADEBIYI , PETER IWEGBU, an institution where you “hand over to the next most tigation results in respect of military aircraft are ANTHONY OGEDENGBE senior officer”, especially in the middle of a war on classified. So, like previous such investigations, we DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI insurgency. There is need for certainty in the leadership may never really know the real cause of this tragedy. SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTORS ERIC OJEH, PATRICK EIMIUHI command chain. We also hope the consideration for ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR SAHEED ADEYEMO But the public is entitled to express concern about the choice of who succeeds Attahiru will be based on CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI professionalism and not on any other consideration so the frequency of these mishaps and the high toll in DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO that whoever is chosen can quickly move in to reassure human lives. On 21 February, a Minna-bound mili- HEAD, COMPUTER DEPARTMENT PATRICIA UBAKA-ADEKOYA the troops who must now be demoralised with the tary aircraft (King Air 350) crashed near the Abuja TO SEND EMAIL: first [email protected] death of their chief in such a tragic circumstance.

TO OUR READERS Letters in response to specific publications in THISDAY should be brief (150-200 words) and straight to the point. Interested readers may send such letters along with their contact Letters to the Editor details to [email protected]. We also welcome comments and opinions on topical local, national and international issues provided they are well-written and should also not be longer than (950- 1000 words). They should be sent to [email protected] along with the email address and phone numbers of the writer. CRIMINAL GANGS AND KIDNAPPING IN THE NORTH he first time I heard nesses in cities and rural com- kidnappers is absolutely bad, but the eyes of the kidnappers and other government when one of its citizens the issue of paying munities. Apart from an excessive the humanity in us will not allow armed groups when they first abducted was abducted along the border ransom in northern levy on many farmers in local leaving our loved ones in the Chibok and Daphchi girls in Borno community with Nigeria and Niger Nigeria was in 2018 communities of Katsina, Zamfara, hands of these criminal armed and Yobe States respectively. An republic. They silently sent some few when twin-sisters Niger and Sokoto States, one must groups. Even the sponsor of the undisclosed amount of money and soldiers and rescued him without were abducted by pay a huge amount of money bill will not watch a kidnapper other gifts were handsomely released paying a penny. anT armed group in Dauran to have access to his farmland. I kill or molest his wife, mother, to the abductors for the freedom of the Economic hardship, unemployment village, Zamfara State. Their can recall my engagement with daughter or relatives. school girls. Last year, over 300 boys of and climate change pushed many abductors demanded a ransom some local farmers in Zamfara, Nigerians are paying ransom Government Science School Kankara young people especially from the of N150 million. Their demand they revealed that armed groups because they have lost confidence were abducted by heartless criminals, Northern part of the country to join generated attention and concern warned them several times not in security operatives whom they and it was said the state government either kidnapping gangs or criminal in most of the communities of to go near their farmlands even sometimes see as collaborators paid the group over N30 million as armed groups. Many local farmers the state and some neighboring if they paid the levy. For them, and informants to the kidnappers ransom. lost their farmlands due to desert states, but especially in mosques there is no farming this year. and other armed groups engaged Likewise, similar incidents happened encroachment; herders have limited where imams were requesting Recently, the Senate considered in the business. As I am writing, in Niger, Kaduna, and most recently spaces to rear their animals and an the congregation to contribute a bill that seeks to prohibit the a sitting judge of Sharia court in in Zamfara State. This caused tension explosive population with no strategic money for their release. They payment of ransom for the release Katsina was abducted in broad and distrust among Nigerians because plan to accommodate them. were later freed after the payment of any person kidnapped, im- daylight during court proceed- people opined that the government is Government must come up with of N15 million. prisoned or wrongfully confined. ings. The security agencies sponsoring insecurity indirectly. economic policies that will provide This is one of the many stories The bill is said to have been cited blamed the judge for going to that A serious government will not pay opportunities for the teeming popula- of agony and trauma people are under Terrorism Prevention Act community. any money to criminal armed groups tion. Good governance remains the facing in paying of ransoms. The which has scaled second reading. However, the paying of ransom in the name of ransom. It is a crime most important key to everything payment of ransom has pushed If the bill is passed into law, the is motivating many to join the that requires proactive and prompt including engaging the vulnerable many people into bankruptcy, offenders will remain in prison business since it involves millions security operatives to curb. We have youths on productive concerns. poverty and destruction of busi- for 15 years. Paying ransom to of naira. Government opened seen this seriousness in the American ––Idris Mohammed, Funtua. THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ‡MAY 23, 2021 19

Editor: Kunle Aderinokun BUSINESS 08033204315, 08111813084 Email:[email protected] Proposed N385/litre Pump Price: Matters Arising For all the arguments for deregulation and the need to arrive at an appropriate pricing for fuel, the N385 per litre pump price of fuel approved by the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, if implemented, may have serious implications on the nation, particularly, heighten the tension in the country. Like bullets from an AK 47, this new ‘deregulated’ price or pricing is capable of puncturing more holes in the heart of an already bleeding nation. Chris Paul reports

t a virtual meeting that fact that petrol has gone beyond a mere business lasted till late night on to an essential product that holds the soul of May 19, 2021, held by the nation, today. the Nigerian Gover- That this aspect is conspicuously missing nors’ Forum (NGF), in the committee’s recommendations shows a decision was made that the thinkers that generated the solutions to deregulate the had other ideas that are not in tandem with downstream end of the the objective of serving the Nigerian people. Nigeria’s oil and gas industry and increase the Rather, their solution is for government to pumpA price of fuel from the current N162 per sell oͿ the reÀneries. As sweet as the idea may litre to N385 per litre. taste in the mouth of ‘deregulationists’, that The decision was among the resolutions measure is not new; because it has always been reached by the Governors in a joint com- on the table; and it does not in any way solve munique, which was generated based on a the need for now, in terms of ensuring available report by the Kaduna State Governor Nasir and aͿordable petrol to Nigerians. el-Rufai-led Committee. Coming from an el-Rufai-led committee, In the communique, the governors made those familiar with his style can see in the known their desire for government to privatised recommendations some ideas from his days three reÀneries after rehabilitation. They also as the chief executive of the Bureau of Public want the government to purchase 113 buses Enterprise (BPE). Back in the day, the only to cushion eͿects of the price increase. solution the agency had for rescuing an ailing Held ahead of the Federation Accounts Alloca- government asset or concern was to sell them tions Committee (FAAC) meeting, scheduled oͿ to private hands. for the ne[t day, the governors Àngered el-Rufai His idea for such a price is also a reminder as the man, who gave the brieÀng on the ap- of his days as Minister of the Federal Capital propriate pricing of petrol in Nigeria, where Territory (FCT), where he ordered the demolition he called for full deregulation. A fuel dispenser of any building he believed was not legally or The el-Rufai- chaired six-man committee was legitimately situated. set up early this year by the National Economic Unfortunately, many homes and o΀ces were Council (NEC), headed by Vice President Yemi day postponed. urged members of the public to avoid panic The problem that got the Nigeria to this point buying because the Nigerian National Petro- mowed down, in error, on his directives. Though, Osinbajo, to examine causes of the dwindling he was honest enough to admit his error of revenues of states and come up with revenue- began during last year’s COVID-19 attack when leum Corporation (NNPC) has enough stock the nation lost billions of dollars due to the of petroleum products to keep the nation wet. judgement, but that singular order had destroyed generating windows to the council. lives, properties, homes and businesses. Members of the committee include Gov- global lockdown arising from the spread of That was a relieving intervention by the federal the pandemic. government as it has reduced the rising social Coming from that experience, therefore, it ernors of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki; Ekiti would seem the Sylva Team do not want to risk State, Kayode Fayemi; and , David This occurred when the states were already temperature in the country amid the increasing experiencing a cash crunch. The huge and una- insecurity the government and the citizens are the possibility of the country going up in Áames Umahi. The other members of the committee before they can admit an error of judgement are the Governor of the bating cost of subsidising petrol had taken a dealing with daily. toll on the one corporation the country rely on On the social front, the resolutions of the over the ashes of Nigeria and Nigerians, on (CBN), Mr. Godwin EmeÀele, and the Group this fuel matter. Managing Director of the Nigerian National to foot the bill; the Nigerian National Petroleum governors have only further exposed them Corporation (NNPC). as leaders who care less about the plights of To serve as palliative, the committee rec- Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Malam Mele ommended the purchase of 113 buses for the Kyari. This had made the national oil company to the people they govern. Their resolutions are a admit it would remit zero allocation to FAAC. discomforting demonstration of their dishearten- states. This recommendation gave away the According to the el-Rufai committee report, minds that prepared the report as uninformed every month government subsidises fuel price As if reading the handwriting on the wall of ing ignorance and appreciation of the harsh a possible backlash from the Nigerian people, realities currently confronting the nation. about the magnitude of their assignment and at N162 per litre, between N70 billion and N210 the impact of their report/recommendations billion bleeds out of nation’s Ànancial veins. the Ministry of Petroleum Resources doused the Sylva’s intervention, on behalf of the federal simmering tension on the street by reiterating government, illustrates the point that the ad- on the Nigerian people. Lagos, Oyo, Ogun, Rivers and Abuja were If Lagos State, alone, can purchase over 500 identiÀed by the committee as the top consumers government’s stand on the existing pump price. ministration is aware that the proposed price In a press statement issued on Friday in Abuja, could explode the nation into an unending crisis buses to Àll the state as replacement for the of petrol. Okadas and tricycles, what will 113 buses do To further convince his colleagues the Kaduna the Minister of State for Petroleum, Timipre that may snowball into a civil unrest. Sylva, assured that there will be no petrol price To those who are downstream-deregulation for all the states of the federation? State Governor, in his report, stated that one One of the reasons the committee oͿered for of the beneÀts derivable from the proposed increase in June. thirsty, the el-Rufai’s fuel price solution should Recall that in April, the NNPC Group Manag- give them a dangerous picture of what they Àxing the price at N385 per litre is that it will price increase is that, it will discourage and discourage smuggling of the product across curb the unceasing smuggling of the product ing Director (GMD), Mele Kyari, had announced are wishing for. that the price of petrol will not be increased until It is noteworthy that the el-Rufai commit- the border into neighboring countries. to neighbouring countries. The committee should have known this is The other more juicy beneÀt is that it will on-going negotiations between labour unions tee’s recommendations conveniently left out and government are concluded. existing Private ReÀneries such as the Dangote an overused excuse just as the bus solution increase FAAC annual income to between N1.3 is an overused palliative measure each time trillion and N2. 2.3 trillion. The humongous fuel subsidy bill that ranges ReÀnery and other modular versions that are between N100-120 billion a month to keep the springing up. government wants increase the price of petrol. Among the committee’s recommendations From the quick response of the petroleum is that the government should sell the three pump price at the current levels had become One would have thought that the governors so overwhelming, the GMD had to warn that would have harped on the need to fast-track minister, it is obvious that the dangerous reality reÀneries after rehabilitation. Purchase and of the cost of the much-touted deregulation distribution of over 113 buses to states and major the nation’s oil company could not continue the completion of these reÀneries with other to carry the subsidy burden on its dwindling support especially in the area of supplying crude of the downstream struck home when they cities as a palliative was also recommended. imagined the possible anarchy and mayhem Although, subject to Ànal approval by the Ànances. oil to them at a great discount. For instance, The huge burden of under-recovery, notwith- Dangote’s 650,000 barrels per day facility can the N385 per litre, approved by the governors NEC, it is feared that the government may see based on el-Rufai committee’s recommendations some sense in the governors’ communique and standing, Sylva maintained that the federal su΀ciently feed domestic demand and still government was in no hurry to increase the have enough left for export. could cause Nigeria. implement the recommendations therein. They did a quick scan of the immediate future Worthy of note is the fact that not many agreed price of petrol to reÁect current market realities. What the governors should have done and Sylva said the clariÀcation had become neces- can still do is to have a meeting with the relevant and could see the streets Àlled with youths with the recommendations as they believe they destroying properties, looting, violence that will deepen the hardship Nigerians are going sary in the light of recent reports regarding the players in the evolving private reÀneries circuit resolution of the Nigeria Governors Forum to and be enlightened on how their window can could degenerate into a worse and endless through today. ‘EndSARS’ situation. One of the South-west governors was more increase the pump price of petrol. be explored and exploited to Àll the gap. No “In this regard, I would like to strongly urge one needs to be a soothsayer or some expert They could see that endorsing such a price at skeptical saying, it would be very di΀cult to this tense moment in the country could trigger a convince Nigerians and labour to accept the petroleum products marketers not to engage in to recognise this low hanging fruits. any activity that could jeopardise the seamless The question then is why would the governors bad response from the citizenry. And, that is no report. His other colleagues, however, main- place any government, especially the Preside tained that the earlier there is full deregulation, supply and distribution system in place. ignore this all important option? It was in this regard that the Minister had Perhaps, government do not appreciate the Muhammadu Buhari administration wants to the better for the country as it remains an evil Ànd itself at this point in time. 20 THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ‡MAY 16, 2021 MONEY

L-R: The CEO, NGX RegCo Ltd, Ms. Tinuade Awe; Group Chief Executive Officer, NGX Group Plc, Mr. Oscar Onyema and Chief Executive Officer, NGX Ltd, Mr. Temi Popoola A Presidential Endorsement for NGX Festus Akanbi In his opinion, the Founder and Chair- our stakeholders that we are ready and Group (NGX Group) Plc, a non-operating man, Proshare Nigeria Limited, Mr. Femi able to explore new frontiers in our quest holding company with three subsidiaries resident Muhammadu Awoyemi said “The demutualisation of the to be the partner and platform of choice – Nigerian Exchange (NGX) Limited, the Buhari last Wednes- Nigerian Exchange is expected to improve for meeting their business, Ànancial and operating exchange; NGX Regulation (NGX day threw his weight the Corporate governance structure of the investment objectives”, Onyema stated. RegCo) Limited, the independent regulatory behind the ongoing entity. I expect to see less or no SEC interven- The kick-oͿ event, which held virtually, arm; and NGX Real Estate (NGX RelCo) transformation of The tion in the leadership of the Exchange i.e. consisted of two parts ² the o΀cial unveiling Limited, the real estate company. Exchange Group, saying the Arunma Oteh/Ndi Onyuike-Okereke of the new brand and positioning, and a A major announcement that quickly fol- the recently concluded Scenario; the NSE management/Council Closing Gong Ceremony where President lowed the restructuring was the appointment demutualisation of the power tussle between Alhaji Aliko and Prof Buhari sounded the virtual gong to bring of leaders for the group and its subsidiaries. group should be seen as a proud moment Ndi Onyuike-Okereke…” the day’s trading to a close. Following the approval of SEC, the erstwhile forP Nigerians. Awoyemi, who is also an investment Speaking at the unveiling event, the Chief Executive O΀cer (CEO) of former Buhari’s endorsement was in consonance coach, explained further that the emerging Chairman of Plc NSE, Onyema, having completed his 10- with the excitement and optimism expressed entities, listed on NASD, will give interested (NGX Group), Otunba Abimbola Ogun- year tenure was appointed as the Group by shareholders and investment analysts publics the opportunity to invest in the banjo, stated, “The Exchange has come Chief Executive O΀cer, NGX Group Plc. who spoke with our correspondent on entity and be part of the decision making a long way, through diͿerent leadership Onyema joined the former NSE in 2011 Friday. process that can help unlock more potential regimes – civilian and military – that have in the wake of a takeover by the Securities According to him, the history of NGX opportunities. overseen multiple booms and bust economic and Exchange Commission (SEC). Before Group was tied to that of the nation itself “Also, with the right market related laws dispensations within the Nigerian economy, relocating to Nigeria, he served as Senior founded 61 years ago at a pivotal time when put in place, the demutualisation can help to emerge as a leading integrated market Vice President and Chief Administrative Nigeria gained her independence. to get new companies on board to list, this infrastructure in Africa and as the engine O΀cer at American (Amex). Speaking at the Closing Gong Ceremony will improve the market capitalisation of of growth for Africa’s largest economy.” He also ran the NYSE Amex equity business held virtually, Buhari noted that the ex- the entity and this may eventually be the He explained that with demutualisation, following the merger of NYSE change continued to play its part in nation- driving factor that will help the Exchange NGX Group is well positioned to enable and Amex in 2008. building by stimulating economic growth achieve the $1trn Market CAP set by Oscar strong economic growth and contribute its For NGX Ltd, Mr. Temi Popoola, was and providing a platform for businesses Onyema, during his Àrst tenure.” quota to the development of the Nigerian appointed as the chief executive o΀cer. A and individual to save and raise capital capital market, and the African Continent. Wall Street-trained investment banker, Mr. through innovation, diversiÀed products The Transformation Demutualisation is a process that changes Popoola joined NGX Ltd. from Renaissance and services, enabling regulatory environ- As part of its transformation agenda, a mutual or cooperative association into a Capital (Rencap) where he was Managing ment and much more. the NGX Group, on May 18 kicked oͿ a public company by converting the interests Director and CEO for West Africa. “The occasion of the demutualisation campaign, “The Stock Africa Is Made Of” of the members into shareholdings. These Ms. Tinuade Awe was appointed as the of The Nigerian Stock Exchange is yet a to amplify its new positioning and com- holdings can then be traded like the shares CEO, NGX RegCo Ltd. Before attaining proud moment for all of us, and indeed mitment to the African Ànancial markets of a company. The idea is to change the this position, she was the Executive Direc- all Nigerians deserve congratulations for as a leading capital market infrastructure structure of exchanges that were originally tor, Regulation at The Exchange. She also this feat as it is the beginning of a new era provider, connecting Nigeria, Africa, and the formed as trusts. served as the General Counsel and Head for the capital market,” he said. world. The campaign which also spotlights It is also an idea that had taken root in of the Legal and Regulation Division, as the growth potential of the African continent developed economies long before it materi- well as Council Secretary before becoming Shareholders’ Expectations was supported by President, Muhammadu alised in Nigeria. Since the Àrst demutualisa- an Executive Director. Presenting the interest of shareholders, Buhari. tion of the Stockholm Stock Exchange in Speaking on the new brand identity, National Leader Emeritus, Independent The Group Chief Executive O΀cer, NGX 1993, leading stock exchanges, such as the Onyema, stated that the new identity is a Shareholders Association, Sir. Sunny Nwosu, Group Plc, Mr. Oscar Onyema, in his speech , London Stock reÁection of the resolve to deliver superior told THISDAY the transition of the exchange said “The Stock Africa Is Made Of” campaign Exchange, Toronto Stock Exchange, Singa- value to stakeholders. was a welcome development. is built around the new corporate identity. pore Stock Exchange, and Australian Stock He said, “We are very excited about However, he stressed the fact that the He explained further that the campaign Exchange have followed suit. Some stock the launch of our new brand identity and development has placed the exchange in emphasises the vibrancy and dynamism exchanges in emerging market jurisdictions website at this pivotal time in our history. competition with other stocks and that it of NGX Group and its subsidiaries, add- also followed suit. The NSE will become “InÁuenced by the dynamism and re- would be expected to pay dividends to ing that it provides stakeholders with an the 57th stock exchange to do so. silience of our market in both good and shareholders and it would be expected to unforgettable experience through creative challenging times, our new identity, which ensure the operation of corporate gover- messaging and opportunities for direct New Structures builds on our rich heritage, reÁects who nance in its activities. engagement with the brand. Demutualisation, therefore, led to a change we are today, our ambitions for the future, “It will have to avoid power play since it is “Our goal is not only to celebrate this in the structure of the old Nigeria Stock and our resolve to deliver superior value now at the same level with other companies.” pivotal point in our journey but to also show Exchange, giving rise to Nigerian Exchange to our stakeholders.” THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ‡MAY 16, 2021 21 ECONOMY

of -3.7percent of GDP in same period and the fact that almost 30 per cent of foreign exchange used in Nigeria come from non-o΀cial sources. “Though Interest rates are now rising,” they noted, “the value of returns to savers and inves- tors remain negative because prices are rising faster than interest. In consequence, savers and investors are actually losing money by holding the Naira. This continues to provide an incen- tive for Nigerians moving money into foreign currency. It also creates a distortion in capital markets resulting in misallocation of resources.” The peculiar mess called the Nigerian economy no doubt, requires an unprecedented policy response from the Nigerian government and its implementing institutions. The President’s Advisory Council members urged for credible and sensible short, medium, and long-term policy responses to counteract the recklessly haemorrhaging economy. On the oil and gas sector, they urged the need for clarity and consistency in petrol pricing policy and the urgent reality of ensuring that, “subsidy Buhari Ahmed Emefiele on petrol be removed and a pricing regime which reÁects the cost of petrol adopted…The cost of retaining the subsidy outweighs the beneÀts, or that the beneÀts of removing the subsidy are far greater than the costs…That in addition to further worsening government revenue, re-introduction of subsidies will jeopardise investment in the oil Peculiar Economic Mess sector and also create uncertainty about general government policy on pricing.” The morbid state of insecurity in the country has impacted heavily with expansive human and economic costs. While there is a growing consensus in the country that Buhari has been and the Way out very blasé about the security challenges, its impact of the economy was well identiÀed by his economic advisory team. The Nigerian economy is in a peculiar mess. Bad macroeconomic and They posited that conÁicts and heightened insecurity reduce business conÀdence, manifesting in declining foreign and domestic investment, microeconomic policies, a blasé attitude to national inclusiveness and deteriorating Ànancial sector performance, higher Àscal cost and security spending. According to an expansive lack of conÀdence in the economy and local currency the UNDP, between 2007 and 2019, Nigeria lost 141.9 billion USD of production to security related violence. have all coalesced to drive the economy into the ‘valley of the shadow To put an end to the threat posed by general in- security to the economy, the Nigerian government of death’. But there is a way out, if only the government is really was counselled by its advisory council to among other actions, defeat Boko Haram decisively, as desirous of doing the right things for the economy and the people. Nosa a conclusive defeat is essential to permanently keep the insurgency at bay. In addition, Buhari was urged to resolve grievances around exclu- James-Igbinadolor looks at the recent diagnosis and prognoses of the sion from access to power, opportunity, and representation through dialogue, hasten the Presidential Economic Advisory Council on the timorous economic implementation of agricultural reform policies especially transformation of livestock farming to reduce potential for conÁict and implement situation in the country, and the way out of the economic Golgotha existing law on compulsory attendance of primary school to reduce the number of out of school narguable, the Nigerian recent increase in fuel pump prices and electricity with the President and his economic advisers, children, a key recruiting ground for thugs. economy is currently fac- tariͿs has triggered questions about Buhari’s and again intimated him on the parlous state of Nigeria’s political, social and economic ing the worst of times since commitments and priorities. Considering the the economy and the need for quick-win policy challenges have a long history that predates independence 61 years economic downtown experienced by many decisions to remediate the dangerous trajectory Buhari’s government. What is unique about ago. The unconscionably Nigerians in a period marked by a remarkable the economy has been on since 2015. the challenges today, is that they have become depressing unemployment, loss of jobs and income, owing to the severity While the global economy has continued to more heightened in scope and quality as a result inÁation, production and of the global COVID-19 pandemic, the decision improve as COVID-19 infections drop and roll- of Buhari’s actions and inactions; including his monetary policy Àgures, starkly support the truth to eliminate the expensive but popular petrol out of vaccination strengthens, PEAC noted the refusal to acknowledge the reality of the incapac- of Uan economy so thoroughly mismanaged by subsidy programme, and likewise the programme Nigerian economy “remains fragile with inÁation ity of his economic team to make any headway its minders over the past six years. for electricity tariͿs, is considered insensitive to continuing to rise, unemployment remains high of the economy. In addition, his penchant for Six years ago, President Muhammadu Bu- the realities on ground and generally an act in and external account very weak.” socio-economic and political discrimination and hari had campaigned on a promise to grow the bad-timing. In addition, rising prices of goods and services insensitivity to social and economic inclusiveness economy, end insecurity and create jobs. He had “This further raises questions on the pat- continue to be a cause for apprehension with the have succeeded in raising the acidic temperature promised to deliver annual economic growth of terns of decisions, actions and mechanisms for “main drivers of rising prices including disruption in the country that have culminated in violent some 10 per cent annually. He has failed in all his feedback that have been undertaken by this to farming activities and inter-state trade as a result responses to government’s policies. promises; unable to end insecurity, create jobs government and the conÁict they pose for the of worsening security conditions. In addition, the His positive assessment of his own performance and grow the economy. administration’s mandate for tackling poverty eͿect of depreciation in the exchange rate and during a ministerial retreat last year shows a On the contrary, the jobless rate under Buhari and achieving economic growth. A plethora of the residual impact of border closure contributed genuine insensitivity to the pulse of the street. has more than doubled in size from 2015. Insecu- misunderstood, miscommunicated or outright to higher prices. As a result of the factors above, For the economy to leave its ‘current residence rity and poverty have expanded horrendously problematic government decisions easily come overall prices rose by 18.17 per cent whilst food at the valley of the shadow of death’, the President and the country slipped twice into recession in to mind. prices increased by almost 23 per cent in March and his economic team would do well to listen to 2016 and 2020. Nigeria under Buhari’s watch “In the last Àve years, the price of food items 2021 when compared with a year ago.” the advice of his Presidential Economic Advisory overtook India to become the poverty capital of has risen steadily, with rice that used to sell for InÁation, they pointed out, aͿects all Nigerians Council. the World. Since 2015, the local currency has lost N9,000 per bag in 2015 now tripled up to about especially the poor very unfavourably by reducing As it stands, a large share of revenues from more than half of its value on the o΀cial exchange N26,000 – a fact acknowledged by the Nigeria’s the value of savings and purchasing power while oil and gas is spent on the country’s public debt rate window, corruption remains undiminished Minister for Finance, Budget and Planning, Zainab at the same time reinforcing expectations and service payments, leaving insu΀cient Àscal space and unrelenting. Ahmed. This has impacted disproportionately reducing Nigeria’s price competitiveness with for critical social and infrastructure spending and For a government not known for sound policy the poor in a country that is said to be already regard to its trading partners. to cushion an economic downturn. In this context, making and deaf to calls for social and political hosting a high population of the world’s poor- PEAC further expressed grave concern over the advice of the World Bank to mobilse revenues inclusiveness to help propel growth, Buhari’s est citizens. Considering the increasing prices of the intensifying rate of overall unemployment through e΀ciency-enhancing and progressive policies have led to widespread distrust by food commodities, Nigeria’s decision to close its and youth unemployment currently o΀cially measures is a top near-term priority. “Revisiting tax Nigerians and lack of conÀdence by foreign borders, despite being a signatory to the African recorded at 33.3per cent and 42.5per cent as at exemptions and customs duty waivers, increasing investors leading to large-scale capital Áight Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), the end of 2020. According to PEAC, the high and broadening the base for excise taxes, develop- out of the country especially as many who do may have been considered as something done level of unemployment is explained by factors ing a high-integrity taxpayer register, enhancing not see any reason to bet on the local currency. in the country’s best interest, with the intent of which include: slow growth in output resulting digital infrastructure, and improving on-time Dr. Uche Igwe, a Senior Political Economy improving local production and agriculture. But from recession in 2016/17 and between March Àling and payment are important measures” Analyst and Visiting Fellow at the LSE Firoz Lalji even with the continued closure of the border and September, 2020. are critical to driving economic growth. Centre for Africa argued in an October 6, 2020 and huge investments in domestic agricultural The members of the Presidential Economic For a country whose real GDP growth has analysis that, “With an unenviable reputation production, nothing seems to have changed Advisory Council also brought to the fore the lagged behind Asian economies that have adopted as the world’s new poverty capital, about 40 per substantially.” country’s weak external trading account despite export-oriented policies, the government needs cent (82 million people) of Nigeria’s population Earlier this month, the Presidential Economic the increase in global oil prices, which has led to to reject statist policies and embrace more open are living on less than 1$US per day, according Advisory Council (PEAC), set up in 2019 by Buhari increasing pressure on the Naira at the foreign trade and competition policies that would help to Àgures from National Bureau of Statistics. to advise him on “economic policy matters, includ- exchange market. They pointed out the country’s diversify the economy and reinvigorate growth, Amidst repeated claims by the government of ing Àscal analysis, economic growth and a range cumulative trade deÀcit of N7.4trillion between particularly as the African Continental Free Trade undertaking measured to alleviate poverty, the of internal and global economic issues” sat down January-September, 2020, a current account deÀcit Area takes eͿect. 22 THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ‡MAY 16, 2021 WOMEN ENTERPRENEURS BOSE ADEGUNWA My Greatest Fear was Not Achieving My Goals Mrs. Bose Adegunwa, CEO of Lawiza Creations, has made an impact in the lives of over 150 individuals in the fashion industry. Although she obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Sociology from University of , Kwara State, her passion for fashion led her to acquire her CertiÀcate in Fashion Design from Nobel Afrique in 2004. Adegunwa’s journey into the fashion industry was Àlled with many twist and turns, because she was a serial entrepreneur that ventured into several businesses. She Àrst started with selling groceries, then jewelry and lastly fabrics before she eventually went fully into the fashion industry and established Lawiza Creations. Lawiza Creations has grown from a small business to a multi-million naira fashion empire that has a fashion school, ready-to-wear fashion and more. The company has set a standard in the fashion industry with multiple awards they have won over the years. Lawiza Creations is a winner of Blueprint Magazine Fashion Designer of the year in 2010 and 2011. It also received an award of Outstanding Performance in the Fashion Industry from National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS). The company’s recent victory was the Award from City People Online Fashion and Beauty Magazine Awards as the Most Creative Fashion Brand of the year. Adegunwa is also proud to be an exclusive distributor of Rite Foods, Makers of Bigi Beverages. Adegunwa takes Oyinlola Sale through her journey into the fashion industry

lease tell us the story behind the name Lawiza Creations? We have that Lawiza touch, wherever you go The name Lawiza Cre- and you see our dress, you can easily identify it. ations was coined from all We cater for everyone, and our signature is the names of everyone in the ready to wear in diͿerent sizes and styles. my family, my husband’s We have something for the conservative and name, my own name and the outgoing individual and that has made us my children’s name. to stand out over the years. The journey was an interesting one, because I didn’t start out as a fashion designer, I was What were some of your biggest fears, when P you ventured into this business? actually an entrepreneur that was into buying and selling. I used to sell gold which incurred a My greatest fear was not achieving my goals, lot of bad debt. so I was always on my guard and I was always So I decided to do something that is tied to concerned about what can make this business rendering service, and that was how I ventured go down. into the fashion industry and then I decided to We have set a standard and we must not go get my certiÀcate in fashion design from Nobel below that standard. Our clients know us as a Afrique. fashion brand that has styles for diͿerent types of individuals and we have to ensure we remain As a fashion designer, what inspires your consistent. creativity? My creativity as a fashion designer is inborn, it How can the government create an enabling just comes naturally to me when I am sketching environment for businesses like yours to thrive? a design for my client and also my environment We want the government to help us in the area determines what I create. Sometimes, when I of Ànance. The process for application for funding just go out and I see colours from nature, it helps is rigorous, which is always not encouraging. me to conceptualise and create unique designs. The government can also ensure we have constant electricity and reduce the rate of tax in Can you elaborate on the growth of the fashion the country. industry and what has changed, compared to I also believe that an empowerment programme when you started? can be created to support the youth, we would The fashion industry has really evolved; it has be willing to train them for a token, so that we changed from what it used to be. The industry has can reduce the rate of unemployment in Nigeria. changed from cutting, sewing and marketing. In terms of cutting, we now use patterns and in 7HOOXVDERXWDKLJKO\GLͿFXOWSHULRGZKHQ you thought of giving up and how you managed the area of sewing, we use industrial machines Adegunwa and lastly selling your clothes doesn’t require to overcome that situation? you to have a shop, the internet and social media The most di΀cult time was when I couldn’t generally have created that platform for us to I am very happy with the growth in the fashion of selling my gold jewelry, just to ensure that the pay my staͿ their salary and I had to sell my showcase and market our designs to the world. industry, because it has made the business com- business didn’t fail. When we were in Adeniyi gold jewelry to meet up and ensure the business petitive. It also makes you as a fashion designer Jones, we had to leave because the owner of the doesn’t fail. What are the challenges you have faced so to be on top of your game in every aspect and it place died so they had to sell the house. Now this I have had to do this several times to Àll in the far in running Lawiza Creations? makes me happy to see fashion designers I have made us move back to the house, which made us gaps and ensure whatever happens, I am not The Àrst challenge that I have encountered in trained, who are doing great things in the industry. to lose some of our materials. It certainly wasn’t going to allow it to aͿect my business. this business is manpower, some youths come to conducive, because of the exposure. work, but they don’t know the job, and despite the As a woman with so many responsibilities, I later got a place in Magodo and it was a good A young female entrepreneur out there is fact that we have a lot of tailors, some of the tailors how do you start your day? one, we had enough space to showcase and for thinking of following your footsteps, what are not committed to the job, they can decide to On a good day, I start my day by saying my the fashion school, but unfortunately one day I advice will you give to her? leave anytime, which aͿects the business. prayers, then I go for my walk after I cook breakfast got a call that we need to leave the building, so I will tell her to be consistent and to have a However, we have been able to set up a system for the family, then by 9am, I am out of the house I started looking for another place. positive mindset, so that no matter the challenges that has made tailors to be more committed to to start work for that day. Now, the places I found would cost about 20 in the business, she won’t give up. the job. million, in terms of the furnishing and rent. So Another challenge we have faced is power, the +RZGLG\RXÀQDQFHWKLVIDVKLRQEXVLQHVV I sat back and thought about it, that instead of What is your growth projection for Lawiza government needs to provide stable electricity, in its early days? spending that money, let use it to buy our own &UHDWLRQVLQWKHQH[WÀYH\HDUV" because it is very overwhelming, the amount I started very small, with just one machine, property and to the glory of God, we got this In the next Àve years, we hope to have a big of money one spends on buying diesel and fuel some thread, lining and small materials. So it place which is not far from where my last shop hostel and fashion school to cater to individuals aͿects the proÀt we make at the end of the day. grew from that and to us expanding and getting used to be. It was really tough but we overcame it. that want to go into this business. We also hope industrial machines. In the course of the business, to expand beyond what we are now to increase The Industry is churning out a lot of creative when things were tough and I didn’t have money So, how have you been able to carve a niche the number of our clients and to make a great designers, what is your view about this growth? to pay my staͿ salary, I would go to the extent for yourself, despite the competition out there? impact in the fashion industry. THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ‡MAY 23, 2021 23 PERSPECTIVE Technology Will Lead Emerging Africa Businesses into Digital Future Habib Mahakian

e are well into 2021 and are already seeing that organiza- tions across Emerging Africa are investing in technology as an accelerator to fuelW socio-economic growth and business success. It’s clear that innovation has been a key contributing factor to sustaining some of our most vital sectors and the sheer speed and scale at which digital transformation took place and supported entire industries as they adapted has been remarkable. Technology took the spotlight; keeping businesses open, students in (vir- tual) classrooms, social lives connected, and essential services Áowing. Technology as an enabler Last year we were reminded of the force for good that technology can be – providing a glimpse of what is possible now and, in the future, and we have learnt that a digital future will be a central pillar within our societal evolution. If harnessed eͿectively, tech will continue to lead global eͿorts to support recovery, playing a pivotal role in enabling governments to ‘build back better’ for the long-term. As businesses across Emerging Africa design and implement recovery strategies, it is not surprising that across the board we are seeing a real emphasis on technology, connectivity and bridging digital divides. Today, we are seeing the positive impact of digital transformation – with remote working, online education, digital banking services and tele-medicine becoming the norm. In fact, digital transformation is at the heart of national digital strategies in major African countries, with ICT powering socio-economic transformation. However, continuous digital transforma- tion is not easy, with many businesses facing entrenched barriers to transforma- tion as they navigate their future. Staying connected is key Many countries across Emerging Africa, such as Nigeria, Kenya, Algeria, Cote d’Ivoire, Angola and more, have a high number of internet users, vibrant e-commerce ecosystems, large youth populations and diverse digital banking Habib Mahakian and Ànancial inclusion policies. In order to leverage and drive growth across these sectors and others, it is crucial for gov- their digital transformation plans as three cybersecurity strategy. Áexible careers. ernment and businesses to harness the major shifts are expected to dominate the The World Economic Forum’s Global As the future of work continues to be a transformative power of ICT. Connective business and IT landscape. Risks Report 2020 ranks cyber-attacks hybrid model, businesses will need tech- technologies will support the roll-out of as the second risk of greatest concern to nologies that drive business continuity digital services, keeping organizations, Cloud adoption is no longer a nice to businesses in the coming decade. As the and collaboration – all at reduced costs. businesses and public sector services have, it has become a necessity tools of the Darknet become more sophis- As a result, businesses may Ànd that operating e΀ciently. This is underscored Investments in cloud operating models ticated and accessible, cyber-attacks are consumption and ‘as-a-service’ solutions with a focus on connectivity in recovery that span public, private and edge environ- increasingly borderless – taking advantage on-premise will help – particularly with planning, setting out to improve internet ments will continue to grow, enabling rapid of jurisdictional constraints of regional economics and the short turn-around they access and preparing for bandwidth con- scale and management of IT everywhere, authorities. have been faced with. For example, ‘Virtual nectivity. with the security and visibility organiza- In cyber-security, new threats and vul- Desktop Infrastructure’ (VDI) provides Another key element is the potential of tions need to keep their data protected. In nerabilities appear at break-neck speed, so, secure, high-performance access for critical technology to make a meaningful impact fact, in conversations with our customers as new technologies create opportunities users while the ‘Hybrid Cloud’ can scale in education and youth skills develop- in the region, one thing is clear. Many have to innovate, we’re seeing more large-scale data-centre resources. ment. As a growing number of students already begun their cloud journey or are data loss and the rise of ransomware at- are exploring careers in computer science currently in the process of implement- tacks – so business resiliency planning is Conclusion and machine learning, we are seeing a ing cloud-based technologies. Moreover, key to survival. With the tremendous push for recovery large, untapped pool of talent who want for many businesses, the increasingly and businesses to remain successful for to pursue careers in ICT. Furthermore, diverse cloud landscape is resulting in Work is an outcome, not a place the long-term, ICT will be key drivers the digital skills gap must be closed to an enormous amount of IT complexity In 2020, we experienced work as an of progress in accelerating the digital build the digital workforce of the future. and having a multi-cloud strategy that outcome, not a place, and this mindset transformation agenda across Emerging uniÀes environments and reduces risk, is here to stay. In addition, in many coun- Africa. It is simply a matter of choice – do Keeping up the pace of innovation to will be the way forward. tries across Emerging Africa, businesses organizations want to wait and fall behind, account for major shifts are using remote working as one of the or do they want to be the digital disruptors As countries across Emerging Africa, Data protection and business resiliency partial solutions to address connectivity of the future? continue to push forward with their ef- planning is critical challenges, address the needs of millen- forts for a diverse and digital economy, In today’s always-on economy, busi- nial workers and to encourage women ‡0DKDNLDQ9LFH3UHVLGHQW(PHUJLQJ organisations must continue to accelerate nesses are under pressure to enhance their to be part of the workforce while having Africa, Dell Technologies 24 SUNDAY MAY 23, 2021 • THISDAY A WEEKLY PULL-OUT 23.5.2021

KENNY OGUNGBE King of Nigeria’s Air Wave

Kenny Ogungbe is a broadcaster extraordinaire who created his own world behind the microphone. He got the swag and captivates his listeners with his voice. Ogungbe, popularly known as ‘Keke,’ bestrides the Nigerian airwaves like a colossus and continues to shine brilliantly, having emerged as one of the modern broadcasters and music producers in Nigeria. Innovative, versatile and industrious, the boss no doubt has made an indelible mark in a career spanning two decades. Currently the CEO of Kennis 104.1 FM and TV, in this encounter with Funke Olaode, the media mogul talks about his life as a broadcaster, music producer and now media owner

ASSISTANT EDITOR OLUFUNKE OLAODE/[email protected] 50 THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ˾Ͱͱ˜ͰͮͰͯͯ COVER KENNY OGUNGBE How I’m Opening a New Chapter with New Radio and TV Stations

hose born in the mid-90s may not be familiar with his larger-than- life image as that era marked the revolution of radio broadcasting in Nigeria under Ray Power FM, the sister station of African Independent Television under Daar Communications. With his captivating voice, innovation and swag with Twhich he brought into radio broadcasting, Kenny Ogungbe, popularly known as ‘Keke,’ redefined radio broadcasting. After plying his trade with Ray Power FM for close to 20 years, today, Keke is a proud media owner of Kennis 104.1 FM, a commercial radio station located in the neighbourhood of Ajao Estate, Lagos, licensed in 2015. The TV station, which has been on air in a few stations across six locations, was equally launched in Lagos two weeks ago with the Minister of Information, Lai Mohammed, in attendance. Keke is ageing gracefully and hasn’t lost the allure of ‘old’ as he looks boyish and polished in his casual wears as he welcomes this reporter into his radio studio located somewhere in Ajao Estate, Lagos. Is there a secret behind his boyish looks? “Nothing special, really,” he replies casually. “I eat anything. I have no special food that I eat. I eat dinner early because of my age. Somebody of my age should eat before 7 pm. I eat rice, amala, lots of okra, lots of vegetables – Efo, that is all I eat.” Keke stormed the Nigerian airwaves back in 1994 with his captivating voice. But he didn’t just break into the limelight. His career trajectory was step by step. One can say he had a natural talent. “Ironically, my first day was not behind the microphone. My first exposure to broadcasting was television. It was at NTA Channels 12 in the late 80s, which was newly opened. I just finished my ‘A’ level in Abeokuta, and I saw an advert from the newly established station that they wanted Ogungbe to recruit staff members. About 50 applicants turned up for the interview, but they hired just those songs are on the platforms, on the global the continent. With Burna Boy and Wizkid station, Keke says Lagosians should get set two people, myself and Yemi Shodimu, for market.” winning the Grammy Award and Davido and to swim in the water of Kennis 104.1 FM the same job at NTA Abeokuta. That was my His record label may have slowed others doing an international collaboration, entertainment. “Kennis 104.1 FM is a commercial instinct into the media house,” he recollects. down though he currently has one artiste is the sky is not the limit. “Where were we 10 station, and it is the first radio station in Ajao You may say Keke’s career as a media promoting, Keke is delighted that he has left years or 20 years ago? The projection will Estate, and we have been broadcasting here since mogul is divine. His father wanted him to be his foot on the sands of time as his legacy as keep on going high. Whatever level we are at November 2020. It is an entertainment station, a lawyer because he had a friend who was a a music producer will outlive him. “When now, we will be grateful, but it will keep on. music station, and we run specifically music and judge. “He wanted me to be a lawyer, but he Fela recorded his songs many years ago, he Nigerian music is becoming popular. Look entertainment. We have our morning show in the wasn’t forcing it. He just felt I should study law didn’t know it would go that far. They are now at the population of Jamaica. Jamaica is less morning, which has two hostesses, and after that, or go to work at the Ministry of Justices or that downloading, streaming the songs globally. than four million people, and reggae music I come on. I do the afternoon shift, 12 pm to 4 pm. I should go and work at the law court. But I Wherever you are, anywhere you go, you can is known globally. Nigeria has a population And again evening, we have Bukky. Bukky runs decided to do media.” download ‘Africa Queen,’ ‘Nigeria Jagajaga,’ of about 200 million people scattered all over from 4 pm to 8 pm, and from 8 pm to 12 am, we After gaining experience at NTA, he ‘Omode Meta Nsere,’ and that will go on the world, and our music is growing. It is at have DJs. And Kennis FM is the only radio station travelled to the United States, where he first for ever and ever, even when I am gone the a speed that nobody can measure. And it is in Nigeria currently that has the DJs every day. earned a BSc degree in accounting. He is CPA music will still be available for people to buy very good for our industry, is good for the “I have a TV licence which many probably Accountant of California. Again, he had a globally.” country because we are doing a lot of PR. We don’t know. It has been on air in six locations: master’s in Mass communication. “I knew that I But why the preference for music show? “It used to see Nigerian doing all kind of negative Abuja, , Kaduna, Ilorin, Enugu and . had an interest in broadcasting and that masters was by choice. Working at AIT also was great vices, like cybercrime, but now they see Kennis TV was also launched in Lagos two in communication, being an accountant, I will because I worked with a boss that understands Nigerian music, they hear Burna Boy, Wizkid, weeks ago. The station is on air in Lagos currently be able to account naira and kobo, dollars and me, respects me, that allows me to do anything Davido performing or singing a song with and was launched by the Hon. Minister of cents while doing the media business. So I I want to do. If I wanted to be a newscaster, I so many superstars. Those are good PR that Information, Lai Mohammed. Arise TV was am designed by college, by education to do would have been a newscaster. If I wanted to government needs to tap into, expanded it so also there and even interviewed me. That is my whatever I am doing in media and managing be a host of a political show, I would have been that Nigeria can be seen as a positive country.” projection, my next line of work. We are about to media house also.” a political show host because I was the General From Daar Communications, where start doing Kennis music TV for Lagosians, and Keke has spent 26 years of his career in the Manager, Managing Director. Again I was like he reigned supreme and retired, Keke is the station is on air currently. If you have a satellite media, specialising in radio broadcasting. He the Chief Operations Officer (COO). Anything now the proud radio/TV stations owner. that has a free TV satellite or free TV decoder, you admits that his staying power is passion. “All I wanted, I could have easily done it. But I Relaying experience from being a radio host to can be able to watch it.” what we did when we started out was not decided to say, you know what, Nigeria music becoming his own boss, it was a journey that Blessed with an amiable wife and wonderful done for money. It was done for the love of it. is void when we came. I remember some started six years ago. “I was given a licence children. His first daughter is already toeing Myself, Dayo D1 Adeneye, ID Ogungbe, grew of those old players or musicians; they said in 2015 by Dr Ebele Jonathan’s government. his line. “My first daughter has a degree in up in Hollywood. We grew up in Los Angeles. Nigerian music is dead. Nobody was doing I was still managing director at Ray Power Communications from Texas A&M University If you grow up in Lagos, you know Ebute music. We grew this Nigerian music during FM when I was given the licence. High Chief and has already developed an interest in my line Meta, Isale Eko, Lekki. I know Los Angeles like Abacha’s period. What can you say if you Dokpesi granted me that permission. He of business. She did productions of some concert my palm, and again I was exposed to radio are into music during Abacha’s period doing also had a hand in me getting the licence. He series, which we previewed while she was here stations. If you are in LA, every frequency or any business? And again, the business stood actually helped me. So after leaving Daar because of COVID. She used the time to produce radio band is occupied by radio stations. If it is up for itself and now is a multi-billion dollar communication, I now established Kennis FM , Eedris Abdulkareem, Sound Sultan, and not rock, it is R’n’B; if it is not R’n’B; it is sports. investment.” in 2016, which was when we came on air. Daddy Shockey concerts. We did the private If it is not sports, then it is Latino. From 88.1 Speaking further, he stated, “Somebody “We officially started broadcasting screening before she travelled back to the United to 107.5 radio stations. And again, I studied must give you accolades, but we are not as approved by the regulatory body, States.” mass communication. I was exposed to TV, looking for accolades from anybody. We National Broadcasting Commission, NBC Keke has had a wonderful career, no doubt, also exposed to OGBC before travelling. So, I grew from the entertainment capital of the in December 2016. We were just playing but if he could turn back the hands of the clock, knew exactly what I wanted. That also kind world. Music is very strong in Los Angeles. music all through because it is a music were there things he would have done differently. of energised me to want to be a media person. We felt if that can be replicated here, it will station. We read news, sports, traffic, “Nothing,” he says. “I am a religious person. I And that is what it takes to be a successful help the economy. Nigerians are involved weather, business news, but majorly believe whatever happens to me is the will of anything, not only a media person: hard work, with music content, music production, embedded with music. It is the first radio God. And the will of God cannot be tampered seriousness and passion together will equal video production, music aggregation, music station that will be within Ajao Estate. with because it is written. I can’t change anything. success.” distribution is all organised now. In those Kennis Communications Headquarter I just pray for guidance and pray for the best. With Apart from being a renowned broadcaster, good old days, there was no social media. is in Ajao Estate, and we have been here modesty, Kennis music or Kenny Ogungbe has he was also a music producer. He pioneered We put all those songs in our car boot, for donkey years. But our studio was in touched many lives either physically or under the Nigerian version on R & B under his Kennis took them to Ebute Meta, Oshodi, Alaba, Arepo. During the COVID period, I was my umbrella. Today, they too have become an Music, which was an instant hit and brought Idumota. They almost beat me up in Oshodi broadcasting from here. People did not know institution, and they too have lots of people they Nigerian artiste on the global music map. The and Alaba, but we knew this thing would until I said so. And the signal was the same, are feeding directly or indirectly. They have done likes of Tuface Idibia was a testimony. Kennis work. So keep at it and to God be the glory it so that encouraged us because we thought if it so beautifully well for themselves. That gives me music has recorded over 80 albums, averaging has worked.” can be like that, we can even set up our studio happiness that kind of situation touches me, and 12 songs per album. “If you multiply 12 songs If anything gladdens his heart, it is the here to guard against traffic.” I am happy to be associated with somebody with times 80 albums, you have a lot of songs. And honour the Nigerian artistes have brought to Talking passionately about his radio success.” SUNDAY MAY 23, 2021 • THISDAY 51 52 THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ˾Ͱͱ˜ͰͮͰͯ

with KAYODE ALFRED HighLife ͮͶͯͯʹ͵ͳͷͶͮ͵˜E-mail: kayfl[email protected] ...Amazing lifestyles of Nigeria’s rich and famous Dr Babatunde Okewale’s Abdulfatah Out of His Anonymous Cocoon The Economic and Financial Crimes intention to join the Senate. (It is also Commission (EFCC) is not pulling any interesting that several governors Leading by a Mile punches in the number of high-profile who left office in 2019 have individuals it is going after. A few weeks kept to themselves, living ago, it was an oil magnate. A few days ago, under the radar.) This it was a former personal assistant to a former might be because the governor. Currently, it is the immediate-past EFCC chased after Governor of Kwara, Abdulfatah Ahmed. him not long after According to reliable reports, the ex- in an allegation of governor was the guest at the EFCC Jabi area financial fraud of office in Abuja a few days ago. Ahmed was 2 billion. reportedly queried on his many dealings In other while in office, particularly the ones that words, this is the somehow ushered 9 billion out of Kwara second time that coffers on his watch. The ex-governor was Ahmed has had said to have undergone seven hours of to dance with questioning before he was released. the EFCC over The details of Ahmed’s interrogation the dealings of eventually crept out after a few hours. the past. Details Ahmed’s time at the EFCC headquarters on this matter are required him to write statements regarding still pouring in, the funds lost during his tenure and those that so the photo of an disappeared between 2003 and 2009 while unsmiling Ahmed serving under Governor Bukola Saraki as the may continue to grace Commissioner for Finance the front pages of many It is interesting that before the ongoing newspapers. To put it all drama with the EFCC, Ahmed had retired in perspective, the EFCC from the limelight. Furthermore, contrary has smoked the man out of his Abdulfatah to the tradition, Ahmed did not declare any anonymous cocoon. Okewale

he old Hasidic adage has it that “the virtue of angels is that they cannot deteriorate; their flaw is that they cannot The Game-Changer: Innocent Ike improve. Man’s flaw is that he can deteriorate, and hisT virtue is that he can improve.” In Changes Face of Polaris Bank his work and service to humanity, one would be right to mention that and his merry band of workaholics will same services as the others, but with a not rest until Polaris has taken first place little bit more. Rather than the typical Dr Babatunde Okewale continues in all things banking in the Nigerian self-service options for balance checking to improve and shows no sign of corporate ecosystem. and transfers, Polaris’ digital platform deteriorating or slowing down. A few The latest reports from the bank have allows its customers to apply for and months ago, it was a book with golden it that Innocent Ike and his team are ready get instant loans. Even those who aren’t words; not it is something else—but to have the customers of Polaris Bank join customers can play around the platform something just as golden. the digital world of banking. However, and even open an account. Moreover, Dr Babatunde Okewale has started the infrastructure in place is smoother, Innocent is targeting the ocean of a new trend on his Women FM (WFM more flexible, and more adequate for potential customers and making 91.7), which promises to address health customers’ needs and demands than what provisions for the trending ecosystem other banks are offering. of e-commerce. problems live and for free. RadioDoctor is Since the COVID-19 pandemic chased To be sure, since Innocent took exactly what it reads like—a doctor on the folks and institutions into the comfort over from Tokunbo Abiru as Polaris radio waiting to advise people on how Ike of technology and online devices, most MD/CEO, the bank has taken off as if best to maintain their health and avoid banks in Nigeria have had their motors handing in its textile wings for titanium unnecessary knots that force them onto Whoever it is that first suggested that running for digital and innovative ones. Perhaps this results from the hospital beds or life medication. Innocent Ike take over from Tokunbo banking. Polaris has just joined the wagon consolidation of Ike’s 30+ years of Okewale has also gotten several other Abiru must be floating on high heavens but looks ready to win the hearts of banking experience or the harmony credible doctors to share their knowledge now. This is likely the best decision that Nigerians (and drag their loyalties away of Ike’s visionary team. Regardless, on RadioDoctor. This means that the Executive Board of Polaris Bank has from its peers) Innocent Ike is changing the face of different kinds of doctors, obstetricians, taken in recent times. It appears that Ike The digital bank of Polaris offers the Polaris Bank. and gynaecologists like Dr Okewale, paediatricians, psychiatrists, you name it. Essentially, following RadioDoctor is similar to having a room full of doctors waiting to advise you. Jewel of Abia : Bende Youths According to the schedule, RadioDoctor will be on WFM 91.7 every day of the week (except Sunday) Host Nnenna Elendu-Ukeje from 10 am to 11 am. Mondays are People are not idiots. As far as the Governor Ikpeazu (who is known for for children’s health with expert grassroots are from the halls of political speaking his mind) stated that the Bende paediatricians; Tuesdays are for power, the common folks know when representative is the Jewel of women’s health; Wednesdays are self-interests are running the show and politics and one of the brightest lights for general health; Thursdays are for when commitments are genuine. Thus, responsible for the welcome visibility elderly/mental health; Fridays are for when almost all of the good people of of the state in the National Assembly all general/mental health; Saturdays are Bende Local Government Area (LGA) around Nigeria. With the many Abians for teenage health. in Abia State came out to celebrate the present at the ceremony, Ikpeazu’s praise Dr Okewale has also announced homecoming of their representative at the hit the spot and showed Elendu-Ukeje as a that doctors with specialities in these lower chamber of the National Assembly, woman worth emulating. areas are welcome to the board. This Hon. Nnenna Elendu-Ukeje, they were Among the female politicians in just goes to show how rich a free health saying something about her commitment Nigeria, Nnenna Elendu-Ukeje occupies a CSR consultation radio programme to their cause. special spot. She probably takes first place RadioDoctor is. This, it seems, is the On May 12, Nnenna Elendu-Ukeje was as the female House of Reps member next step for Dr Babatunde Okewale. treated to a grand ceremony by youths of who has received the most insults and After more than two decades on her constituency, Bende. The ceremony disparagement and faces hostility and held at the Bende stadium saw all levels of aggression from threatened folks in high women’s health and infertility, the Elendu-Ukeje good doctor extends his expertise, people from within the LGA and beyond places. But that has never stopped her experience and influence to children, trooping in to show respect to a well- from doing her thing. staunchest voices calling for women the elderly and the mentally challenged. known and well-loved woman. To top In her three terms in the Green participation in politics in Nigeria. She A man committed to all is a man worth things, Abia Governor, Okezie Ikpeazu, Chamber, Elendu-Ukeje has served is well-loved in her constituency, with was also there, heaping compliment after as the House committee chairman on even the Governor of her state as one of admiring. And that is Dr Babatunde compliment on Elendu-Ukeje. foreign affairs. Even now, she is one of the her big fans. Okewale. THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ˾Ͱͱ˜ͰͮͰͯͯ 53 HIGHLIFE Access Bank MD Herbert Wigwe: The Extraordinary Banker Marches on in a different African country, earning him Bank Limited, Zambia, and took control of accolades worldwide. the bank. In 2019, Access Bank broke the Herbert Wigwe has proved yet again internet with its acquisition of Diamond that the sky is not the limit for everybody, not Bank, making it the largest bank in Africa, when there are heights beyond. This is how according to some analysts. Close to the end folks interpreted the news of Access Bank of 2019, Access Bank acquired 100 per cent of acquiring and assimilating African Banking Kenya’s Transnational Bank. Corporation, a banking institution based in While other banks are consolidating their Mozambique. It is not every day that a bank resources after the COVID-19 crisis, Access with a Nigerian at the helm acquires another Bank continues to look like it could swallow bank in another country—maybe not every a few more banks before it is full. And who is Wigwe day for Access Bank, but definitely every responsible for this but the bank’s CEO and year! Group MD, Herbert Wigwe? With a grander momentum than 1000 The acquisition of African Banking With his accomplishments, one might people can offer, Herbert Wigwe is proving Corporation is the fifth in four years. A few say that he is no longer to his Nigerian peers weeks ago, Wigwe’s team took command but has jumped out of the limits of national himself to be the corporate treasure of Lawal Nigeria. Access Bank has grown from one of the South African banking institution, corporate banking. In less than 20 years, of the middle-grade Nigerian banks into Grobank and renamed it Access Bank Higwe has transformed Access Bank and a top-level bank of continental renown on South Africa Limited. A few months ago, made it into the monster it is today. If this is his watch. Wigwe recently commandeered in January, Wigwe shook hands with the not the true spirit of corporate leadership, Dr Waheed the bank to swallow up yet another bank former authorities in charge of Cavmont what is? Babatunde Lawal’s Giant Strides of Otunba Timehin Adelegbe Double Celebration Otunba Timehin Adelegbe, the Owo/Ose Otunba Adelegbe’s gesture is coming at a Federal Constituency representative at the time when folks from such remote areas are lower chamber of the National Assembly and still picking up the pieces of their lives after the These are truly the best proud number one fan of Governor Rotimi economy-collapsing waves of the COVID-19 of times for notable Offa Akeredolu, has proved to all sundry that his virus and pandemic. Thus, the empowerment businessman, CEO of Turner heart beats for his people. His commitment scheme combines compassion and empathy Wright Group of companies, was laid out for all to see last weekend. with visionary planning. Then again, and prestigious philanthropist, In the presence of Akeredolu, Otunba Otunba Timehin Adelegbe has never Dr Waheed Babatunde Lawal. Adelegbe gathered more than 1,750 members been one to pull punches or adhere of Owo and Ose Local Government Areas unreasonably to conventions (such as In a few months, the man will and provided them with funds to improve improving the lives of your citizens only be stepping into the circle of themselves, their businesses and immediate a few weeks before elections). elite sexagenarians with regalia society. While they were all members of the Furthermore, the presence of of nobility to accompany him. All Progressives Congress, the beneficiaries Governor Akeredolu at the event shows Some spend all their lives and of Adelegbe’s grace were also small-time that Otunba Adelegbe has full approval ready to give their arms and business owners, artisans and craftspeople, so and support from his role model. legs to earn the acclaim of the gesture really touched them. One might even say that the latter is their homeland and people. But It was noted after the event that this is starting to walk in the steps of the former: Dr Lawal got it based on his the biggest gesture to the Owo/Ose Federal unapologetically focused on what is at hand, character and contributions to Constituency from a member of the House never playing with the hearts and loyalty of the of Reps. In other words, in the minds and people. To quote Neil Armstrong, the gesture society. memory of the people, no other political figure of Otunba Timehin Adelegbe is one small step It appears as if 2021 has has represented them so well and relieved for him but a giant step for the members of his Adelegbe been split into two periods them of their burdens as Otunba Adelegbe. constituency. of distinction for Dr Waheed Babatunde Lawal. Lawal would remain a prominent business personality, a foremost philanthropist, and a celebrated son of the Offa (Kwara State) Former Osun Guber Candidate Ademola soil in the first period. In the second period, Lawal would still be a prominent businessman, Adeleke Wipes off Stain on Record but one in his 60s, with the Osun governorship chair for himself. With the Oyetola had the momentum of an incumbent blessings of his hometown most recent development, that will not happen a governor on his side. In contrast, Adeleke in the form of a chieftaincy second time. had his big brother, the wealthy Adedeji title upon his brow. This is the News media houses are buzzing with Adeleke, and the people of Osun. After many double conferment that Dr reports and photos of Senator judicial somersaults, Adeleke was declared Lawal is set to enjoy this year. following his graduation from the Atlanta the winner. And then came the bomb that he The preparations for Dr Metropolitan State College, Georgia, in the U.S. forged his SSCE testimonial and WAEC result Lawal’s 60th birthday (June As friends and close colleagues are tilting wine and the submitted Diploma in Criminology bottles to celebrate Ademola’s new certificate, from Jacksonville State University (JSU). At 3) are already underway. others are calling to mind the difficulties and the end of the drama, Adeleke lost the dance According to those in the know, torrents of humiliation he faced in the last Osun to Oyetola and soon after decided to solidify the relatives and friends of Dr gubernatorial election. his academic qualifications for all the world Lawal will not be holding back Adeleke Recall that the guber of 2019 was to see. but will go all out to celebrate one of the most interesting elections at the time. And now, he has. With the Diploma in him. After all, it is not every One of the most interesting things about While there were several contenders, the front- Criminal Justice, maybe the dancing Senator day that someone of Dr Lawal’s being a politician is the ‘stigma scare’ or the runners were incumbent Governor Gboyega will step up and step out for the next Osun stature steps into his 60th year fear of a past blemish suddenly floating to Oyetola of the All Progressives Congress (APC) State gubernatorial electoral royale. In any on earth. But this group will the surface. This is what happened to Senator and the dancing Senator, Ademola Adeleke of case, Senator Ademola Adeleke’s slate is likely be outdone by the natives Nurudeen Ademola Adeleke (alias Dancing the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). cleaner now than it was three years ago. Senator) while he was on the cusp of taking the At the time, some analysts noted that of Dr Lawal’s hometown, Offa, Kwara. The Olofa of Offa, Oba Mufutau Mohammed Gov. Udom Throws Weight Behind Akanimo Udofia’s Gubernatorial Ambition Gbadamosi Okikiola Ajagungbade I, Esuwoye II, The march towards the next series dislike of the alternative choice (the current in recent weeks requesting that he do so of is raising enough national secretary of the APC caretaker for the sake of the progress of Akwa Ibom. will confer the title of Parakoyi dust to bury all potential losers under. committee, Senator John Akpaudoedehe) A youth coalition said it wanted of Offa on Dr Lawal, raising In Akwa Ibom, the query of the identity than the merits of Udofia. Udofia because he could be “a governor his social status a few grades. of his preferred successor (which has The game of politics is a sentimental one, whom the people can look up from his Interestingly, the Olofa’s long been submitted to Governor Udom so one cannot take oaths on behalf of this past and current development drive conferment will be held on Emmanuel’s table) has reportedly gotten politician or that. Nevertheless, Governor and economic pursuits and connections June 5, just two days after Dr an answer: Akanimo Udofia. How valuable Udom Emmanuel has shown that he is within and around the nation and the Lawal’s 60th birthday. Thus, is Governor Emmanuel’s alleged support? reliable, meaning that whoever he supports world...a detribalized Akwa Ibomite, a the buzz on social media That is the question. is more likely to be reliable than otherwise. national and internationally known and for the soon-to-be Parakoyi Interestingly, the other person who has Or so people think. And the man himself— recognised figure who could break even at of Offa cannot be more been asked the same question on behalf of Udofia? any stage in the world for the good of the the veterans in Akwa Ibom politics, former The well-to-do CEO of Desicon State.” Is this what even Governor Udom widespread. Doubtless, Dr Governor , has also been Engineering Limited has not presented Emmanuel thinks of Udofia? Is that why Waheed Babatunde Lawal will supportive of Akanimo Udofia. However, a himself on any platform as a politician, much Governor Emmanuel allegedly approved remember 2021 as the year that handful of folks have stated that Akpabio’s less a potential gubernatorial candidate. of his supposed intention to succeed him? the double celebration in his life alleged choice has more to do with his However, several coalitions have sprung up took a grander turn. 54 THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ˾Ͱͱ˜ͰͮͰͯ

LOUD WHISPERS with JOSEPH EDGAR (09095325791) El-Rufai – Please, Exercise Restraint Look, at times, you can spoil a good case They are just overgrown daddies playing ground.” Sound advice which I am giving with all this gragra. You see, I am squarely with their privates, trying to see which one you today, Mallam, on this issue. As I said, I on your side on this matter. The wage bill is is bigger on the national stage. Despite these, am very much in support of you on this one, astronomical. The revenues are shrinking. Of how do you engage them, Mallam? It is not but then again, you must open the doors for the wages, a good percentage are most likely by standing on TV and be talking like Fidel compromise, negotiations, and a middle-of- ghost workers or workers that technology Castro or Abacha—we are going to break the-road solution. has rendered irrelevant or, in some cases, the strike. We are going to deal with them. You cannot win this one with a despotic duplication of roles. So, what will a short, We are going to fry their balls. We are going approach. No matter how vacuous extremely brilliant governor do but redress to this and that. And be calling them names their position is, they will have some the situation by right-sizing? Unfortunately, like economic saboteurs and be sacking all arguments, so let’s listen. I am happy the this is not business. This is governance the nurses in one fell swoop. My brother, no strike has been called off as I write, and where market forces do not hold sway. This be like that o otherwise, you will lose your the federal government has offered to is where we have na-me, na-me people moral authority. That is what Caroline told mediate. Please, Mallam, as you go for the struggling for relevance and positioning. Me, me when Osa accused me of always playing negotiations, calm down, you hear? I can I don’t like those NLC people. I even hear to the gallery on our WhatsApp group. Osa is even escort you sef. It is not a personal in their secretariat that they have not even always looking for my trouble taunting and thing. Marshal out your points, show implemented the minimum wage they are provoking me, and like you, be like say, I get them the figures and ask them how they fighting for. Those ones don’t understand the small temper, so I unleash. Then the sweet want you to continue throwing money issues. Their own is to run around in faded and, I must say, very beautiful Caroline came away when there are critical infrastructural Rufai Ankara and be singing out-of-tune solidarity on and said, “Duke, don’t say anything again; needs all over the state. These NLC people, songs. They never understand the issues. otherwise, you will lose your moral high me, I no just like them. Dragons.

SENATE – WORSE THAN RUBBER ABUBAKAR MALAMI – WRONG afang. I don’t even care if he will enjoy I just wonder why. I pray this is just STAMP ANALOGY it. I will sha just offer him. Daddy one of their usual games. If you ask Me, I did not call them rubber stamp My brother, that your example no has said that there cannot be war in me, I think he should really consider o. Far from it, I fear and respect them work. Comparing the herdsmen crisis Nigeria and that who will fight who. very seriously a run. He is less too much to call them rubber stamp. in the country and the suggestions He said that those blowing trumpets controversial than ‘bullion van.’ He The only thing that I just want to say by the southern governors banning of war are simply just trying to draw is cerebral. He has had eight years very peacefully, and if anybody vex, open grazing with an illustrated attention to what they can get out of of hands-on experience, even if he I will quickly withdraw it is that this ban on spare parts selling is a very this country; my sentiments exactly. has spent most of that time on Zoom particular Senate be like say them all mischievous attempt at diverting All these mumu people jumping up and the Lagos-Ibadan expressway. don take ‘Lexotan’ go sleep. Nothing attention. It is even risky sef, in a and shouting, secession, war, etc., are He has shown that he can rise to the is happening there, no excitement, country like this where you have a the very first to run when they hear occasion when given the opportunity. nothing. Na just to be approving large population that don’t read and, the sound of banger. I look and listen All the times that he was acting, he request for external borrowings o. I do even if they do, do not have the power to all these charlatans, and they are was effective. I seriously think that his not think they are even asking what to discern. That is how one street being represented in every corner of candidacy will calm frayed nerves of happened to the previous ones. They urchin seeing this statement in Kano this country for what they are - jokers. ethnic agitations, send a strong signal will just approve fiam, and they will go will shout, ‘They have banned sale I have always said that our problem of steady hands to the investment back on recess. The only time you get of spare parts,’ and another round is nothing but leadership. By its very community and shore up our anything from this lot, is when Senator of looting and maiming will start. I weakness, this current leadership credentials as a nation that should be type will stand up and agree with your position on the rights has amplified all these fault lines that taken seriously. All will accept him as be railing and pouring spit all over and freedom of movement enshrined have been there since independence. non-threatening, and he can be trusted the place shouting on insecurity after in the Constitution and all that, but It has exposed the fault lines in a very to have the nation as his focus if he maybe his maiguard had been beaten when the issue of violence associated obvious and annoying way. See, we can cut loose the strings of control up by a herdsman. And have you with this movement has become moved from regions to states. We by those who control us. I think he noticed that each time we get these rife to the extent that it is making divided from 12 to 36, and we are still should be a consensus candidate. A kinds of speeches, the hall is usually the country divided up to the point beset with the same issues of poor candidate that we can use to calm empty with just about six or seven that insecurity across the nation is leadership, corruption, infrastructural nerves while we strategise. Let’s think senators sitting down there looking the order of the day, then something decay, etc. So, for anybody to tell me about it. as bored as ever? They will be saying has to be done. Tying your argument that if we restructure or break up, we in their minds, ‘abeg Smart talk finish with all due respect to just’ rights to will suddenly become an Eldorado, AWO AND AREMU – SCAM OF THE make we dey go abeg, there is a new movement and freedom’ in this instant then that person needs his head CENTURY sex toy in town, need to go sample.’ is at best dodgy. The issue here is not examined. Please, my dear Sultan, tell Don’t mind my use of the word scam My people, these ones are looking open grazing. The issue here, sir, is them the issue is not resource control, in the title, but if you really look at it, like they have never heard of checks the violence that comes with it. The restructuring, insecurity, or anything na scam. I am producing two plays and balances. They are just looking herders-farmers crisis that is leading but that of leadership. And we get the this August on the two historic figures like an extension of the executive, and to other things is the issue. Can we just kind of leaders we deserve. Simple. – Awo and Aremu. You see, u know everything is just going smoothly sef. for once put our heads together, forget my mouth is too sweet. When I am Mbok, help me remember the name any shallow attachments, and find a PROF YEMI OSINBAJO – WHY AREN’T sitting down in front of sponsors who of the oga of the place. I don’t even lasting solution to this thing. Me, I am YOU INTERESTED? are business people, I will say, ‘look remember that is how bad the thing getting tired. I have seen the rebuttal that the highly at the historical push of these plays. is in my head. When I call people respected but seemingly ‘thrown to one Using the Yoruba culture and its ethos like Chuba Okadigbo, Joe Wayas, Dr SULTAN ABUBAKAR – GOD BLESS YOU side’ Vice President has released, that as a mode of delivery is essential. Saraki, even that big Igbo man with You see, I owe this oga a hot bowl of he is not interested in the Presidency. These plays will frolic with the Yoruba big belle and small head, who will be culture, throwing up paradigms wearing red cap even try. But this one, leaning heavily on birth, marriage, make I keep quiet. I be orphan. Sad. death, leadership and the rest to tell a story that will compel thousands

Lawal Malami Abubakar Osinbajo THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ˾Ͱͱ˜ͰͮͰͯ 55 LOUD WHISPERS of Nigerians and draw them to the I am for a robust democracy, and theatre courtesy of your products. democracy is about debate, strategy They will swallow it and say, oya, and engagement. Let’s have a strong Edgar, let’s deal. But the true thing is APC who will take on a virile PDP simple. in a battle that would be guided by We are witnessing a dearth of strategy and logic and not by loaves leadership. We no longer have selfless of bread and ballot snatching. This is a leaders in this mould in this country welcome development, and I want to again. What we have are bullion- send my hearty congratulations to Mr van driving leaders masking as true Ambode and the APC for this welcome patriots. At the slightest opportunity, and very strategic development. we have sleeping leaders jump on the plane to go check their tonsils when ABIDEMI RUFAI – SENIOR SPECIAL everything is burning down. We now ASSISTANT FROM HELL have a generation of sycophants who Me, I like Governor Dapo Abiodun, will charm your pants down as long as but these are not very good times for it keeps them on the table of avarice. him. He had a scallywag as his SSA; These two stories of these historical just been arrested in the United States figures will once again throw up what for wire fraud. The funds involved are humungous, and the case is true leadership is all about. Call them Adefarasin anything you want to call these two. Ambode receiving very major attention both You cannot compare them with what locally and internationally. My own mention this when it first came out, my They woke up one morning from their is that we should begin to strengthen we see today in anything. You will Afang woman had just passed, and I orgy and said, ‘no second term’. They say why only ‘Yoruba’ as our ethnic- our screening capabilities so that was sad. But now I am back, and the said he didn’t follow the master plan miscreants like this will not find minded jingoists would say. I am more I am looking at this video, the and, as such, will not be allowed to already being accused of talking about themselves in the system. We do not more bad belle is catching me. Paul, do a second term. All hell broke loose, know the wholesome damage crimes only one side of the nation. My answer why not mobilize your youths, use and everybody begged. But the owners to them is to go to the toilet and take like this cause our economy. Forget your incredible gift of the garb and had spoken, and nothing anybody image. Today, Nigeria is synonymous the blunt end of the toilet cleaner, seek a position and begin to change could do about it. So, he left. We all bend down and... This our country is with fraud. ‘The Nigerian Prince’ is the system instead of planning to run cried, but what could we do? The now the symbol of international fraud. finished o, but some of us will not give away? That is cowardice, and if I were talent was keen, and that was why he up. I can only tell three stories a year, I have watched several documentaries, a member of your church, that would was brought in, in the first place. He newsreels, and Hollywood blockbuster and God will keep us alive to continue be the end of my tithing. I will just be has mended the fences, and today he to tell these stories, and when it is over movies that have been mainly coming to take a picture and greet the is at the national level playing a very mentioned and portrayed. This fool for us, God will throw up others that fine girls. My brother, this thing no strategic role in the party that should will carry on. not only scammed the system, stealing be psychedelic life o, this is Nigeria. see his party better positioned and from the vulnerable, but he would Let me state here very carefully that We need serious people to help turn it ready. They say he has been made tribe or geographical location does not also have now come home to attempt around. Thank you. vice chairman in charge of strategy for a push at the National Assembly. play any role in my head in choosing APC in the South-West. To me, this the subjects. Maybe the market comes Do you see what that means? They AKINWUNMI AMBODE – THE GRADUAL is a welcome development because say innocent until found guilty abi. in once in a while. The real thing that BOUNCE this leader still has so much to give. catches my attention is the depth of Did you see the video of this gorilla spraying dollars at a party like say na the story and what I want to achieve. Throwing up an Awo and Aremu him get Fort Knox? You can never spray as examples of diagonally separate UTO UKPANAH – A NIGHTINGALE SPEAKS legitimately earned cash like that. So, leadership schools at this time is brilliant, It was my brother Tobe that introduced her to me. They both work with my brother Governor Abiodun, kindly if I must say so myself. They both played MTN, and the company has been super nice to me. They supported my last look into your cabinet. In fact, not only very critical roles at very strategic points play, Ibiom, very robustly. Tobe felt that I could learn a thing or two from Abiodun. Let’s rescreen every governor in our national history, and I feel today’s Uto and, as such, gave me the link. Mbok, na chat we dey chat throughout o. or officeholder to weed out these kinds leaders can learn a thing or two. We So I never really got to feel her intellectual strength and outlook better. Then of people before they kuku finish what will get to other leaders surely. We are I fell into a maze after the wonderful production and reached out to her to credibility we have in government. It is doing the Aba Women Riots next with see if she could assist me in untangling it. She is very influential in my state. not until they start to strip-search our an interesting angle pulling it from the That is how chat led to talk, and I called. Mbok, when some people talk, president and do a cavity search on him lesser-known Ikot Abasi angle. Then we you will be wondering which school dey go. The diction, the neatness of the at the airport before we begin to get will look at Tafawa Balewa or Queen delivery, and much more importantly, the clarity of thought just killed me. sense. Amina, and then I will want to look at She spoke very eloquently about what is ‘right’. This is a dilemma we face the legendary Arochukwu people. Their in this country, people not knowing what is ‘right’ and not connecting with SANWO-OLU – RMD’S APPOINTMENT IS story is captivating. Any which way it. Her voice was soothing, and I could just imagine how this country would COMMENDABLE we go, we must tell our stories not just be if people like this were given an opportunity. My sister, I say I should sha My Excellency, how have you been? for telling sake but also use them as a just greet you this morning. I know you will not like this mention just bear Let me first congratulate you on vehicle for national reawakening. But your new buses. Marvellous. I am with me. This is how people that are close to me ‘suffer,’ ask Tobe. Nigeria writing you because I have seen seriously, anybody who no like am, do will do well with people like you. Even if my maze is not untangled in our ya own. Kai. a petition from some people who lifetime, just know that you have found a willful follower. But let Nigeria have called themselves something PAUL ADEFARASIN – COWARDICE ON hear you, my sister. It cannot be only me. of indigenous Lagos asking for the THE PULPIT removal of versatile actor Richard Mofe This handsome man sha like to talk. Damijo as Chairman of the Committee The man likes to hear the sound of his on Entertainment. First, my lord, the voice, and I do not blame him. If you money sef is small sha. But much more see the kinds of beautiful girls in that important, if we want to start using church, you sef will be talking with merit as a basis for appointment to an American accent o. Me, I went to produce the Nigeria of our dreams we that church one day to go see a movie all yearn for, where do we start from premiere. These girls are neat o. They but cosmopolitan Lagos? If you ask me, don’t look Nigerian; they all look like this is a very strong appointment which those people we use to see in snoop dog I want to believe came out of your need video wallowing on the beach. They will to achieve something with this Fund. You all just sit down there, cross their legs must have looked at credibility, integrity, and be admiring pastor whose words and experience. That RMD is eminently they all take with equanimity. Whether qualified cannot be contested. That there they understand it or not, it is not their are a thousand and one Lagosians who problem o. Their own is that they have can do the job and even better does not worn cloth and have come to church. So, mean that the state of origin should the risk of grandstanding and playing be of critical consideration in taking to the gallery is all so prevalent. Pastor this decision. We must begin to bring will just jump up and be talking all sorts, capacity to bear on things like this—the including crap, and the people will be commissioner for culture in Akwa Ibom clapping and be saying, ‘kai, this our na Yoruba man. El-Rufai media man pastor can speak English o. Mbok, what na Yoruba man. Asiwaju Tinubu as is plan B for a leader? To run away? governor brought Ben Akabueze into his Did Martin Luther King do plan B government, and he performed credibly when he was fighting for Civil Rights? well. A Yoruba man - Olumide, runs the Didn’t he lose his life? Should I call biggest mall in Akwa Ibom and owned more? Desmond Tutu, Mathew Kukah, by the government. So, if we are to take the catholic priests who lost their lives RMD out, let it be that he is not qualified in the genocidal wars in Rwanda, too or messed up and not because he is not many to mention. It is not to be looking a Yoruba man. This is not the Lagos or like a Hollywood star and be doing should I say the Nigeria that we want plan B. Mbok, I am very sorry I didn’t Ukpanah to bequeath to our children. 56 THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ˾Ͱͱ˜ͰͮͰͯ

Adebayo Adeoye   [email protected]; 08054680651

The Rise and Rise of Corporate Guru Segun Ogunsanya It is not an exaggeration to describe Segun Ogunsanya, the outgoing Chief efforts to pull the company from the Executive Officer of Airtel Nigeria, as precipice, thanks to his managerial skills. one of the brightest minds in corporate Industry watchers affirm that it has been Nigeria. the longest period of stability without When he took over Airtel Nigeria’s another change of ownership since the reins a few years ago, not many doubted company first launched its network as his ability to turn things around in the Econet Wireless in 2001. company, having performed wonders in The Bharti Group was particularly other firms like Coca-Cola and Ecobank impressed that Ogunsanya was able International, among others. to keep the ship of Airtel Nigeria afloat Ogunsanya, an engineer of while constantly remaining within budget repute, had been chosen as the right with an uncanny trademark measured Rufai man to help stem the tide of the frugality. A stickler for excellence and near telecommunications company, which perfection, Ogunsanya started on a good is known to have metamorphosed a note and has lifted the company far above How Abidemi Rufai number of times. its competitors, with groundbreaking He was seamlessly captaining the innovations, thereby putting smiles on the Got into Trouble ship of the Nigerian Bottling Company faces of the shareholders. when Airtel Nigeria challenged him Having won the confidence of the entire shareholders and his bosses across ntil last week, with another challenging position as its CEO. Known to take challenges the continent, he is tipped as the successor Abidemi Rufai to Raghunath Mandava, CEO, Airtel Mayodele, an aide head-on like a bull and surmount them, Ogunsanya could not resist the Africa, when he retires in September of Governor Dapo 2021. Ogunsanya will not only be the first Abiodun of Ogun temptation of a fresh challenge. Today, he is commended for his Nigerian but the first African to be in that state, was seen as a position. Ogunsanya goodU man with a heart of gold. This is because he was fond of donating money and food items to his constituents. He is flamboyant, a top-flight Another Feather in Property socialite and man-about-town quite popular among musicians. He has houses in choice areas Merchant Yemi Lawal’s Cap in Ijebu-Ode as well as Lekki. He drives expensive cars and Today Sunday, May 23, 2021, all six-block of fully-furnished well-connected on account of roads lead to the expansive palace of classrooms in Ikorodu, his relationship with Governor Oba Kabiru Ayangburin of Ikorodu inaugurated days after his Abiodun and other power Kingdom, when Otunba Saheed installation as Bobamulero of brokers Ogun and neighbouring Yemi Lawal, the Seagle Properties Ikoroduland. states. boss, will be installed as the The Seagle Group boss, who But as they say, ‘greed is a Bobamulero of Ikoroduland. wears philanthropy as a second powerful motivator.’ The dude According to the organizers, skin, never looks away whenever was not content with enough the ceremony is part of the there appears a need to assist wealth he had acquired. He activities to commemorate the the people. In recognition of his got pushed by greed and found sixth coronation anniversary of the philanthropy, he was honoured himself in an unenviable royal father. with Ekerin Bobagunwa of situation. Society Watch further gathered Egbaland by Oba Adedotun that the multimillionaire His fans were shocked beyond Lawal Gbadebo, CFR, the Alake of words when news broke Monday businessman would open a Egbaland, in 2020. that Mayodele, owner of Ecobet, a popular sports betting company, had been arrested at the John F. Kennedy Airport in Ex-Deputy Senate President Ike New York on his way out of the United States. The acting U.S. Attorney Ekweremadu Counts Blessings at 59 Tessa M. Gorman accused him of using an alias, Sandy Senator has have come without some celebration. No enjoyed a steady rise in the nation’s wonder, when he turned 59 last week, Tang, to steal over $350,000 in political sphere. But it is a given that his unemployment benefits from the he was celebrated by his admirers and enviable status in today’s Nigeria was constituents. Though it was a low-key Washington State Employment not thrust on his laps. Instead, he has celebration, they poured encomiums on Security Department. If found worked tirelessly to attain his current him while the celebration lasted. guilty, he will spend 30 years in status. Meanwhile, it was gathered that his prison. The former deputy Senate president greatest desire is to secure the number He is a member of Egbe is one of the few experienced politicians one job of his state in 2023 when the Bobamayegun of Ijebu Ode, a who have climbed every rung of the incumbent Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi popular social-cultural group ladder to get to their current positions. would have served his two terms in office among the Ijebu Ode people. Since 1997 when he joined active as mandated by the constitution. politics, he had served in various “Senator Ike has received the blessings He once aspired to represent capacities, including being a local the Ijebu Ode/Odogbolu/ Ijebu of many top political leaders as well as government chairman, secretary to the those that matter in the scheme of things North-East Federal Constituency state government, chief of staff and across the state. His ambition is buoyed at the House of Representatives later deputy Senate president. by his unprecedented contributions to the on the platform of the All The political gladiator is everything growth of Enugu, which have wormed Progressives Congress. many aspiring politicians would wish him into the hearts of the people. He also Meanwhile, the man has been to be in life. When he was coming into has a solid political structure, unmatched left to bear the consequences of the game in 1997, he never thought he clout as well a heavy financial war chest. his acquisitiveness as his boss, would ever get to this level. He only He will be throwing his hat in the ring in wanted an opportunity to serve his 2023,” a source said. Governor Abiodun, ordered his people and to address some of their immediate suspension from However, another source revealed challenges. that this might be a mirage as the office to answer charges against For a man who has done so much him. governorship might be zoned to a for his people, his birthday could not different zone. Ekweremadu THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ˾JUNE 24 2012 ARTSARTS && REVIEWREVIEW A PUBLICATION 23.05.2021 AT 92, ABAYOMI BARBER’S STILL THE MAN OF THE MOMENT With an art practice spanning over seven decades, Abayomi Barber at 92 easily stands out as one of the contemporary Nigerian art scene’s leading lights. The artist, whose naturalistic paintings rebuff the Western notions of African art, was the toast of the Lagos art community at a recent event organised by the National Gallery of Art. Okechukwu Uwaezuoke reports

hen Oladimeji Abayomi Adebayo Alade a scholarship from the Western Regional Government, not long Barber clocked 92, on October 23, last afterwards, he was able to finally travel to the UK. It was here that year, the rest of the country was gripped he enrolled to study at the Central School of Arts and Crafts in by fever spasms of mass protests against London from 1960 to 1962. Besides studying the preservation and police brutality. During these protests, restoration of antiquities, he moulded a statue of Chief Awolowo tagged EndSARS, cultural activities – like at Mancini and Tozer Studios in London. The abrupt end of the everything else – understandably ground scholarship after a crisis, which engulfed Nigeria’s Western Region, to a halt nationwide. This was at a time left him out in the cold. Undaunted, he was still able to study casting when the COVID-19 protocols still discouraged large gatherings and moulding at Mancini and Tozer Studios, worked as an art as- Wand the art public agonised over the effects of the earlier govern- sistant at a studio owned by the Irish sculptor Edward Delaney and ment-imposed lockdowns! Is it any wonder, therefore, that the subsequently worked with the Croatian sculptor Oscar Nemon on National Gallery of Art – which is often known as the NGA – had five sculptors of British wartime prime minister Winston Churchill to shelve its plans of organising an elaborate ceremony in honour of at St James studio. this artistic luminary? Tomoloju, who presented the special exhibition brochure, titled Fast-forward to last Tuesday (May 18) afternoon. The gallery Abayomi Barber: An Artist Born and Made, thought the allusion eventually had its way and hosted what was designed to be a of Barber’s artistic experience while in the UK as “cultural assimila- formal reception at the decrepit National Commission for Muse- tion” inappropriate. He would rather it be substituted with the term ums and Monuments’ quadrangle and exhibition spaces. “cultural synthesis”. His reason? “[Barber] already had a bastion Talking about the event, it arguably witnessed one of the largest of creative motivational force in his Yoruba cultural environment turnouts to any art event in recent times. Besides featuring the which could not have been extirpated by sheer exposure to the Lagos art community’s crème de la crème, it was graced by the Western mode of artistic expression. Barber will not, for instance, NGA’s director-general Ebeten W. Ivara as well as the representa- be compared with his francophone counterpart who, subject to the tives of the information, culture and tourism minister and kindred French policy of assimilation, divests himself of much of his original parastatals. Among those occupying the high table were the culture to take on more of the culture of the coloniser.” birthday celebrator Abayomi Barber, a former National Council of Indeed, Barber had sufficiently asserted himself in the visual arts Arts and Culture secretary Frank Abiodun Aig-Imoukhuede, the and music before his departure for the UK. He taught himself to octogenarian artist Bruce Onobrapkeya, the respected artist and sculpt, thanks to the uncommon interest he had developed during art educator Kolade Oshinowo, the celebrated female artist Nike his visits to the local shrines as part of his primary school history Davies-Okundaye, the art historian and visual artist Professor Peju Abayomi Barber lessons. Adding his drawing skills later to this transformed him into Layiwola, the renowned art collector and the founder of the Yemisi a full-fledged artist. Shyllon Museum of Art, Omooba Yemisi Shyllon, the artist and anonymity up the ladder-rungs of the industry’s recognition. Opening his first studio in a warehouse in the southwestern art administrator Oliver Enwonwu and the veteran journalist and A botched plan to sail to England as a stowaway earned Barber Nigerian town of Ilesa with the help of his uncle, the Ooni, he not art consultant Ben Tomoloju, who presented the special exhibition the wrath of his maternal uncle Oba Adesoji Aderemi (the then the only produced sculptures of the town’s influential people but also brochure. There was, of course, also the curator of the SMO Gallery, Ooni of Ife). For this audacious plot, he was to be confined at the frequently visited Lagos, which even back then was already the Sandra Obiago, whose presence was duly acknowledged by the monarch’s palace for another five years. But then, the inexorable de- country’s hub of artistic activities. event’s master of ceremony even though she was not seated at the cree of fate intervened about two and half months later and made When he eventually relocated to Lagos, he briefly trained under high table. his secret plans for an escape unnecessary. This was sometime in the renowned British sculptor Paul Mount at the Yaba College As for the event, it owed its high-octane tenor more to Barber’s re- 1957 when his uncle Oba Aderemi was celebrating his ascension of Technology, where he had enrolled for a course in sculpture. It nown than to his bonhomie. Indeed, the nonagenarian’s admirable to the throne. The festivities naturally attracted distinguished was in this city that he would experience his bloom time in the arts, track record in the industry, whose narrative arc is as impressive Yoruba personalities, among whom was the revered politician and lurching eventually from his visual arts practice on to other interests as it is inspirational, easily distinguishes him from even among his nationalist Chief Obafemi Awolowo. such as music, advertising, book illustration and interaction with contemporaries in the art scene. For besides tacitly establishing an A presentation of the portraits Barber did of Chief Awolowo the Yoruba Historical Society. art movement – known in the art historian circles as the Abayomi and the then Minister of Education of the defunct Western Region, Read full article online - www.thisdaylive.com Barber Art School – he is admired for clawing his way from out of Stephen Awokoya, literally changed his fortunes. With the help of TRIBUTE A GARLAND FOR AN ART MATRIARCH AT 70 Okechukwu Uwaezuoke Lagos from 6 pm. Expected at the event, whose chief would have given up, reproachfully demand- host is the Babajide Sanwoolu, ing an explanation from the Creator. are the leading lights of the local arts community. Instead, Nike found solace in the arts ver-the-top revelries At the landmark age of 70, the woman – known in through leveraging her upbringing with her customarily trail the the art circles as “Mama Nike” – has every reason to great-grandmother, who was the head of all be thankful for the inexorable weavings of creation. the craftswomen in the Kogi State community breasting the septuagenar- of Ogidi-Ijumu. It was the latter that taught ian tape. So shall it be for Her life’s story so far is an exemplar of the triumph of spirit, which saw her wade through the darkest her what she needed to learn about weaving Nike Davies-Okundaye, nights of her soul. textiles and making adire fabrics. who joins the club today. A She was left in the lurch after losing her mother Still on the arts, there were early signs of special dinner event, at the when she was just six years old and her grandmother their calling her into their service. Besides her instance of the Lagos State a year after. Nonetheless, the resolute soul lurking late mother and an aunt, who raised her, were Government (through the Ministry of Tourism, beneath her young body cheerfully took whatever known to be art-inclined, there was also her Arts and Culture) in partnership with GAC fate threw her way in her strides. Indeed, it was this father, who was known to be a multi-talented O artisan. Motor, will be organised in her honour at the longsuffering inner disposition that helped her glow Read full article online - www.thisdaylive.com Banquet Hall of Eko Hotel in Victoria Island, through those years when many in her position Nike EDITOR OKECHUKWU UWAEZUOKE/ [email protected] 58 SUNDAY MAY 23, 2021 • THISDAY THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ MAY 23, 2021 59

Editor:Olawale Olaleye CICERO mail:[email protected], SMS: 08116759819 IN THE ARENA Situating Shekau’s ‘Latest Death’ As the Nigerian Army probes the ‘latest death’ of factional Boko Haram leader, Abubakar Shekau, the old posers resurface, writes Louis Achi, who examines the long-winding narratives and the possible consequences

actional Boko Haram leader Abubakar Shekau’s reported ‘latest death,’ last week, presents his bruised Nige- rian audience with a quirky Shakespearean dilemma. According to the Elizabethan Era literary sage, in Julius Caesar (Act 2, Scene 2): “Cowards die many Ftimes before their deaths; The valiant never taste of death but once…” Except as a metaphor, a person can’t physically die multiple times in a single lifetime. But the second part of Shakespeare’s quote departs from metaphor when he held that the valiant never taste of death but once. In effect, when the valiant physically dies, it is the only time he will know death because he has never been afraid to face the challenges of life. Pushing the seething, dark inner vision of his life, Shekau, deputy and eventually suc- cessor to the group’s founder, Mohammed Yusuf, who was executed in 2009, it could not be denied that he has shown extreme courage in prosecuting his very damaging anti-state convictions. Shekau is (was) instrumental to the killings of thousands of people and displacement of over three million in Borno, Yobe and Adamawa States over the years. Between 2009 and 2021, Shekau’s death has been claimed or reported several times by the nation’s security agencies. The Shakespearean ‘coward label’ then hardly sits Abubakar Shekau well on the insurgency leader’s neck given the scope of audacious, bloody damage he has done to the state. 3 August. On 27 June 2017, Shekau released a video in which he But this scenario essentially contradicts the old insight that However, a video in September 2013 was released in claimed responsibility for the abduction of Nigerian police- only cowards die aplenty before their final death. The big which a man purported to be Shekau claimed he had not women and criticised the Nigerian government for claiming question is: Has Shekau finally died? been killed. The Nigerian Army also claimed to have killed that Boko Haram had been defeated. This video would Apparently, to avoid a comparable dilemma, US President him during the 2014 Battle of Kodunga that lasted from seem to be further evidence of Shekau’s continued survival. Barrack Obama, out of the options he was offered during September 12 to 14th. In February 2020, Shekau released a video threatening Operation Neptune Spear, which killed Osama Bin Laden The Cameroonian military posted a photo and also the Minister of Information and Digital Economy, Isa Ali in Abbottabad, Pakistan, chose one that’ll ensure the US claimed their forces killed Shekau in September 2014. Pantami, and making reference to what was done to Islamic Navy Seals physically retrieved Osama’s dead body. This In response to these reports, security analyst with Red24 scholar Ja’afar Mahmud Adam in Maiduguri, when he was subsequently buried at sea, according to reports. There Ryan Cummings commented, “Is this his fourth or fifth preached against Boko Haram. were no speculations and long-winding narratives. death? He dies more often than an iPhone battery.” In Most recently, on Thursday, May 20 2021, Nigerian intel- Nigerian authorities believed that Shekau was killed early October 2014, a video was obtained by AFP news ligence officials claimed that Shekau was killed or critically in 2009 during clashes between security forces and Boko agency that showed Shekau alive, in which he mocked the injured after detonating explosives in his house to avoid Haram, until July 2010, when Shekau appeared in a video Nigerian military’s allegations that he had been killed. capture from the rival IS–West African Province faction. This claiming leadership of the group. He has subsequently been Late Chadian President, Idriss Déby claimed in mid- is yet to be finally established. regularly reported dead and is even thought to use body August 2015 that Shekau had been replaced by Mahamat According to AFP news agency, over 300 fighters loyal doubles. Daoud without exactly specifying his fate. An audio to ISWAP, in a fierce battle on Wednesday, lasting several In March 2015, Shekau pledged allegiance to ISIL leader message attributed to Shekau was released a few days later, days between the ISWAP-Boko Haram factions led to the Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi. Shekau is a Salafi, until 2016, when in which he purportedly stated that he had neither been death of dozens of commanders and hundreds of foot he ended his relation to ISIL; the two groups were however killed nor ousted as chief of the group. soldiers from both sides and that Shekau has killed himself allies until 2021, when they became enemies and ISIL More, Shekau was reported to have been “fatally or fatally injured himself to the extent that he might not gunmen tried to assassinate him. wounded” during an airstrike in Taye village on 19 August survive. Before the now defunct Shekau-Baghadi alliance, the 2016 by Nigerian Air Force, which also killed some senior The Nigerian Army has said that it is probing the reports. Nigerian Army in mid-August 2013 stated that Shekau leaders of Boko Haram. On September 25, a video of a man According to military spokesman, Mohammed Yerima, the was fatally wounded, when soldiers raided a base of Boko purported to be Shekau was released on YouTube, in which reports on Shekau’s death or injury could neither be denied Haram in Sambisa forest and had died between 25 July and he claimed that he was alive and in good health. nor confirmed. POLITICAL NOTES What’s Malami Saying? ot unexpectedly, the Attorney General of the There’s something you can’t afford to gloss over here, albeit Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar objectively. Isn’t it obvious now why the criminal herders go Malami, last week, stood on the side of herders, about with so much recklessness and guts? Isn’t it evident why when he condemned the position of Southern it appeared their excesses were seemingly intractable? Isn’t it governors, who upheld the ban on open graz- understandable now why government seemed helpless in the ing, saying their position was unconstitutional. face of the heinous crimes so far perpetrated by these criminal But that isn’t even the bone of contention here. elements in the name of grazing? He went on to liken the governors’ position to banning the sales It is shameful and utterly disappointing that the chief law ofN vehicle spare parts. How? officer of the nation could not hide his biases in a matter that What’s even the parallel between itinerant herders and threatened national security and the unity of Nigeria and would vehicle spare parts sellers, who operate from identifiable sta- rather espouse such lowly primordial sentiments. Although tions or shops? Is the desperation to grant the Fulani herdsmen the Governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu gave him a a free-pass so pressing that the AGF could not even properly resounding reply, exposing his lack of capacity and ineptitude, articulate his defence and the best the chief law officer of the na- Malami has also by himself exposed his role in the problems of Malami tion could do is equate herders and spare parts vendors? Wow! the country. He’s no less an enemy of Nigeria. 60 THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ MAY 23, 2021 BRIEFINGNOTES Okada: Time to Wield the Big Stick Time for the Lagos State government to brace up security of the state by fully proscribing commercial motorcycles and tricycles is now. Shola Oyeyipo writes

s much as governance is about the people, there are times when tough decisions must ignite action, because not until a decision is made, nothing happens. Therefore, the purported plan by the Lagos State government to place a full ban on the activities of commercial motorcyclists popularly known as Okada, is one that must be followed through. The Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration in Lagos is Aobviously inundated with the dangerous dimension the activities of commercial motorcyclists is taking; their disregard for state traffic laws and restrictions, hence the decision to ban them totally, and this decision is enjoying considerable support from well-meaning Lagosians and Nigerians alike. Why so? Despite arguments that this ugly alternative means of transportation, which though helps a good number of Lagosians beat the harrowing traffic experience that often characterises Lagos roads, the disadvantages far outweigh the advantages. Although one Oladeinde put the statistics of Okada related deaths at 600 between 2015 and now and 10, accidents, those familiar with Lagos traffic know that that is only an official figure. A lot more people lose their lives daily in Lagos and not a few have sustained debilitating deformations from accidents on commercial motorcycles. More challenging, however, is the security threat posed to the state by these commercial motorcyclists. A majority of crimes are perpetrated by Okada riders, because it comes handy as a getaway vehicle after crimes are committed, and worst still, with the clamp down on Boko Haram members, bandits and other criminals across Nigeria, Lagos easily becomes the ideal destination and Okada, the easiest business to embark upon. The recent statement credited to the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Hakeem Odumosu, attributing a majority of violent crimes in the state to armed hoodlums, who operate on motorcycles or Okada as they are known, when he appraised the security situation in the state during a stakeholder’s meeting, is no news. A typical hoard of Okada riders in Lagos Many Lagosians have had first experiences with criminal Okada riders, who snatch bags, rob people inbroad day light, carry stringent traffic laws that became operational in the state. With Also, while government promised to acquire buses to cushion out gang attacks, kidnapping, burglary, engage law enforcement Section 3 (1) his government banned commercial motorcyclists the effects of Okada ban, the problem of traffic jams will continue officers in violent confrontations and often get away, because most and restricted their operations on at least 492 of the 9, 200 roads to necessitate the use of Okada, especially, for those who must of their bikes don’t have authentic plate numbers. across the metropolis. Though that decision generated considerable get to work or keep business appointments. For instance, many Odumosu painted a very graphic picture of the nuisance outrage, it was vigorously enforced leading to confrontations with Lagosians rely absolutely on Okada to get in and out of . Okada in Lagos constitute with a review of their activities between law enforcement agents. Now they are back as if the law has been What alternative would government provide for people working January and May 9, where he reckoned that 192 Okada riders lost repealed. in areas such as this? their live in 280 accidents, noting also that, “The number of deaths The argument by Okada operators has been that government Proffering a solution to the problem, a former CEO, Lagos recorded in road accidents and crime committed with the use of should not bar them from federal highways that are listed in the Ferry Services, Kalejaiye Adeboye-Paul,suggested that water Okada across the state, had assumed a worrisome dimension.” Federal Highways Act, cap F13, Law of the Federation of Nigeria, transportation should be encouraged, but good as this may sound, According to him, records at the disposal of the Lagos State 2004 and that doing so would be infringing on their freedom of the question is, ferries cannot get into the inner roads/streets. Police Command indicate that in January,90 Okada accidents movement as preserved in Section 41(1) of the Constitution of the A commentator, Seyi Osiyemi also said, “It is common occurred; 76 in February, 101 in March, 84 in April and 34 in May Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 as amended. On the other hand, knowledge that Okadas/kekes have become a menace on Lagos (May 9 to be precise), and the number is expected to rise. He said users of that mode of transportation bemoan that the existing roads. At some point, the state government considered licensing Okada accidents were often because of recklessness and lawless- means of transportation do not guarantee ease of movement for tech companies providing bike-hailing services, which would have ness, with some riding on the opposite direction of the roads and residents of the state, and that equally, the road infrastructure are provided an opportunity for the state government to sanitise the making dangerous maneuvers. inadequate and under immense pressure. sector. This plan, however, never materialised due to growing level Like most other concerned Lagosians, Odumosu advised An observation of commentaries by Lagos residents on of insecurity. the Lagos State government to put in place stringent measures social media shows that even though Okada as a means of “What we have in Lagos is a people problem and not to address the negative activities of the commercial motorcycle transportation is helping some people to beat the harrowing traffic necessarily a motorbike problem. I can point to different cities operators, saying,“Okadas are being illegally used as a veritable in some parts of the state, the people are tired of the activities of in sub-Saharan African, where activities of motorbike are well means of conveying hard drugs from one point to another. The the operators, and they look up to the Sanwo-Olu administration regulated without causing a nuisance. A case in point is Cotonou, consequences of spreading of hard drugs and its consumption are to really wield the big stick this time around. Candidly, however, where motorbike is provided with dedicated right of way. Kigali is better imagined than said.” it shouldn’t just stop at getting them off the road because of the also another example. In another revelation, the Lagos police chief said between multiple layers of effects such action is likely to create. “The inability of government to effectively regulate motorbikes January and early May, 320 commercial motorcycles were arrested First, while it is a known fact that Okada operators and their is down to the endemic human problems we have in Nigeria, in connection with 218 cases of criminal incidents in which 78 activities are constituting menace in the state, so many others which is also characterised across every sphere of our society. And suspects were detained and 480 guns of various calibers seized are making ends meet from the business that has grown to a this is further compounded by the fact that motorbikes riders are from them. multimillion-naira industry. Sending these people to the labour surrogate of the NURTW.” The Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola (SAN) administration market without a well thought means of engaging them could Certainly, banning Okada on Lagos roads is inevitable, but was about the most concerned Lagos administrator about the even have a more disturbing effects on security and social systems government cannot leave it at that, all the ripple effects of such activities of the Okada riders. In 2012, he assented to some in the state. action must be considered and addressed. NOTES FOR FILE Subsidy: The Evil Day Is Nigh! Since January 2012, when the first bold move to Unfortunately, this would have been one obnoxious remove the criminal and fraudulent subsidy from phase long behind the government and the Nigerian petroleum products by former President Goodluck people, even when President Muhammadu Buhari, Jonathan was rebuffed and organised against by was all over place during his election in 2015, canvass- then opposition now in power, it was evident that the ing the need to remove subsidy from petroleum and nation was merely postponing the evil day and that stop the stealing of the people’s common patrimony. sooner or later, the chicken was going to come home On the contrary, it was shocking that, his govern- to roost. ment has tried to christen this official heist many Last week, governors of the federation came funny names just so it could pass and be seen as together and agreed to finally give unto Caesar what ideal. But eventually, the evil day, after several post- was his by supporting subsidy removal. And after a ponements, is here. For those who had dreaded the rough estimate, given the nation’s peculiar situation, consequences of subsidy removal and savoured the Nigerians might be dealing with close to N400 per temporary benefits of the systemic fraud, it’s payback litre for the Prime Motor Spirit. time now. Dr. Kayode Fayemi, Ekiti State Governor THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ MAY 23, 2021 61 CICERO/REPORT

Amaechi, Buni and Sylva after their reconciliation meeting The Buni Committee, One Year After! How has the Caretaker/Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee of the All Progressives Congress fared, one year after taking up the assignment? Adedayo Akinwale asks

fter a long period of protracted internal others, into the party. conduct of congresses and convention, the committee constituted crisis that nearly consumed the ruling All The committee has also resuscitated the party’s internal dispute an eight-man committee to review the party’s constitution. Progressives Congress (APC), a Caretaker/ resolution mechanisms and set up reconciliation committees for The high-level committee is chaired by Prof. Tahir Mamman, Extraordinary Convention Planning Com- Oyo, Edo, Ondo, Imo, Ogun and Ekiti among other state chapters with Mr. Dare Oketade as Secretary; while Prof. Dakas Dakas; mittee of the party was constituted to save with reported disputes. The committees met with key stakehold- Hon. Akinremi Olaide; Dr. Ego Ezuma; Hon. Mohammed the party from itself. The constitution of the ers in the various states and reconciled warring factions. Kumaila; Shuaibu Aruwa and Dr. Ekokoi Solomon were all caretaker committee was well accepted and Already, the reconciliation committee has been able to reconcile members of the committee. received by all the members of the party, who the two warring factions in and has appointed a The committee was mandated to consider recommendations had expressed worry over the protracted leadership crisis that state caretaker committee led by Senator Matthew Mbu as acting of contributors, particularly on contemporary issues that needed Abedevilled the party during the Adams Oshiomhole-led National state chairman. to be adequately captured. The committee has however received Working Committee (NWC). In Ondo, all the governorship aspirants were brought together, memoranda on enshrining party discipline, deepening internal The ruling party had during the emergency National Executive campaigned and worked for the successful re-election of the APC democracy, greater inclusion of marginalised groups like women, Committee (NEC) meeting held at the Presidential Villa on candidate, Governor Rotimi Akeredolu (SAN). youths and People with Disabilities (PWDs), among others. June 25, 2020 dissolved the Oshiomhole-led NWC following a The committee, in Akwa Ibom State, brought together all the Contact and Strategic Committees: In order to reposition the protracted leadership crisis and set up a committee to manage contending interests under one roof and achieved true reconcili- party to ensure good governance, the Buni committee proposed the affairs of the party in the interim. The 13-member caretaker ation. Today, in Akwa Ibom, leaders such as Senator Godswill the recently-inaugurated tripartite Executive/Legislative/APC committee, headed by the Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni, Akpabio, Obong Nsima Ekere, Mr. Umana O. Umana, Senator consultative committee, which is ensuring synergy, good gover- was initially given six months by the NEC presided over by and Bassey Dan Abia, among others, are now working nance and accelerated implementation of the Next Level agenda. President Muhammadu Buhari to complete its assignment. together and in collective pursuit of party’s interest. As part of efforts to recover, rebuild and reposition the party, Within six months, the committee was mandated to organise At the national level, the Minister of Transportation, Hon. the committee constituted a high-powered APC Contact/Strategy a national convention for new leaders to emerge and also Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi and Minister of State for Petroleum Committee chaired by the Governor of , Badaru mandated it to reconcile aggrieved members ahead of the Resources, Chief Timipre Sylva have been reconciled by the Abubakar. The terms of reference for the committee include to planned national convention of the party. It was believed that in a committee and both resolved to work together and strengthen the establish constructive engagements between critical stakeholders at short term, the brewing tension, factionalisation of the party, crisis party, particularly, in the South-south geo-political zone. various levels of the party with a view to reviving confidence and and the ever-growing court cases that have stymied the party Having realised that one of the major causes of crisis within trust among party leaders. would all be sorted out. But that was not to be, necessitating an the party was a poor reward system of dedicated members, Buni The committee was also mandated to conduct a need assess- extension, which however, generated some ill-feelings. recently hinted that the committee was working with President ment survey from party members and the general public and to Buhari to urgently address the reward system for dedicated also create a statement of vision, mission and core values of the The Action Plan and loyal party members. This, he said, could be done through party that wouldfoster unity. The caretaker committee wasted no time after it was constituted appointment of deserving party members into several boards, The committee was also mandated to develop strategies that and immediately swung into action by making sure it reconciled agencies and parastatals of government. would reposition the party in an advantaged position in the public all the aggrieved members of the party, while also ensuring that Membership Drive: The Committee had immediately domain as well as develop a timeline and framework for the those that had left the party were persuaded to come back. The embarked on a nationwide APC membership registration, implementation of the recommendations of the committee. committee ensured that all ongoing litigations against the party revalidation and updating the registeration exercise to increase the as well as among members at that time were withdrawn and party’s membership and support base nationwide. Implementation Status terminated. While the nationwide membership registration, update and The Buni-led committee recently met at the party’s National The Buni-led committee, from the outset, was saddled with the revalidation exercise conducted across the36 states and the Federal Secretariat and reviewed the implementation of the three-month task of preparing and leading the party’s campaign in a number capital Territory (FCT) was new to the mandate given to the action plan. of critical elections for positions at the state and national levels. The committee, the committee believed that there was need to embark The committee said it was important to take cognizance of Committee made sure that the ownership tussle surrounding the on the exercise before going for the convention of the party. the fact before it took over the leadership of the party, internal building that houses the party’sNational Secretariat was resolved. The exercise, which started February 9, was extended twice to party crisis was allowed to fester and it distracted public attention accommodate new members. from appreciating the monumental strides that the Buhari-led Now, the Scorecard At the moment, the status of the exercise remains unknown APC government was making in delivering APC’s three critical Reconciliatory: The Buni-led committee has combined reconcili- as the leadership of the party has not come out with an official electoral promises – fighting corruption, security and revamping ation, consultation and inclusiveness in achieving unity and statement to reveal whether the exercise has been completed. the economy. cohesion in the party within the past few months. The committee But, recently,secretary of the committee, Senator John Akpanudo- Buni said ahead of the planned APC National Convention and set up several high-profile reconciliation teams across party edehe disclosed that the APC now has over 40 million registered indeed the 2023 general election, stakeholders should continue chapters that were battered by internal crises and has recorded a members. to support the committee’s efforts to unite the party in order good number of resolutions that have improved the party’s stand Election victories: The committee since the beginning of its to make it formidable enough to consolidate APC’s national and cohesion since then. tenure, has led the party into major elections comprising governor- governing status and landmark achievements. The party’s effort at resolving internal conflicts at various chap- ship, national and state assembly elections. In all these elections, According to him, “The APC must not go into a National ters has also paid off with members’ desires in compliance with the party has once again proven that it’s the party to reckon with Convention, and indeed a general election in crisis. We should the party’s resolution to withdraw and terminate all litigations that in the country with significant wins across the board. take it one step at a time and ensure that the ongoing national involvedthe Party. The reconciliatory moves are already yielding A win in the Ondo State gubernatorial election despite the mass reconciliation process being undertaken by the committee is results, because they have brought back many prominent party gang-up against the party, the senatorial seats won across Lagos, sustained, successful and continues to yield results.” members and leaders including, former national chairman of Plateau and other states as well as a good number of state houses The committee said it was constantly briefing the President, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Barnabas Gemade; of assembly seats won were parts of the committee’s feats. Chairman, Progressives Governors Forum, Senate President and former Speakers of the House of Representatives, Hon. Yakubu Review of Party’s constitution: While the party members were Speaker, House of Representatives with a mid-term report, which Dogara and Hon. Dimeji Bankole and Dr. Alex Otti among expecting the committee to come up with a timetable for the will enable the committee to take all-inclusive decisions. 62 THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ MAY 23, 2021 CICERO/ONTHEWATCH A Militarisation of the Southeast A recent shoot-on-sight order against persons considered enemies of state in the Southeast byPresident Muhammadu Buhari, is worrisome. Amby Uneze writes

he recent shoot-on-sight order by President Muhammadu Buhari cannot be the solution to the insecurity in the Southeast today. Besides, importing soldiers Tand police personnel from the Northern part of the country to the Southeast with the charge to shoot-on-sight is more of a military culture. The essence of democratic rule is the total involvement of the people in the governance of their affairs and not government by force or kill-on-sight. Before the current madness of attacking police and correc- tional facilities by the so-called unknown gunmen in Imo State, the people of the state had known peace all the while. The state and its people were regarded as one of the most peaceful states, where visitors and people from other warring zones found peace. The whole craze about shooting and the rest of illegal activities being perpetrated in the state by the unknown gun- men started recently as a result of the deployment of soldiers in the Orlu area of the state. What started in a particular spot as a result of an alleged shootout between the police and members of the Eastern Security Network (ESN) – a security outfit formed by the banned Indigenous People of Biafra A troop heading for an operation (IPOB) – has indeed created a big tension and worry in occasion of a Holy Mass marking the celebration of 2021 “In Anambra, the Cantonment Commandant of the 302 the country. World Communication Day, emphasised that Nigeria has Artillery Regiment Onitsha is Col. Abdulsalam Sambo, a The acceptance by Governor Hope Uzodimma in not changed from the colours of military regime since the northern Muslim; In Imo, the Commander of 34 Brigade faraway Presidential Villa, Aso Rock after a meeting with current administration, adding that the people still suffer Obinze is Brig Gen Ibrahim Tukura, another Muslim; in President Buhari to have invited the soldiers to Orlu, his as if democracy did not exist. Abia, the Commander of 14 Brigade Ohafia is Brig Gen M. political zone and where he hails from, sparked off the Obinna stressed that democracy seemed not to be Ibrahim, a northerner, while in Akwa Ibom, the Com- insecurity challenges in the state today. working in Nigeria, because the leaders have failed mander of 2 Brigade Uyo is Brig Gen Faruk Mijinyawa, But, as often canvassed, the simple solution to the the people, but noted that, “I commend the Southern another northerner. This is truly worrisome”, Ohanaeze problem at hand could have been dialogue and not governors for waking up from their slumber to now stated. force. Dialogue is the only conflict resolution that soothes speak what the people want. In the past, they had failed Another Igbo group, Human Rights Advocates, took the the mind of an agitator or aggrieved person(s). It is the people by doing only what Abuja wants, but what matter further by alleging that apart from those deployed unfortunate that the Nigerian leaders lack it, maybe, they did this past week is a wakeup call to redress the to the zone recently, the military formations, including because they feel the authority resides with them and anomaly by banning open grazing and demanding for Navy and Customs were saturated with officials from the therefore, every discussion must start and end with them. restructuring of the country”. northern part of the country. The group disclosed that in They also don’t thinkthat peace could be achieved at a On security, he also decried the situation. “We are in addition, northern soldiers, among other patrol activities, roundtable. trouble, because the government has failed to provide man military checkpoints in the zone. Thus, with the shoot-on-sight order and subsequent security for the people. The idea of importing soldiers But Ohanaeze Ndigbo, which seemed convinced about deployment of soldiers and police, such actions and police from the North to Southeast to continue to kill the motive behind the “shoot-on-sight order”, said the aredetrimental to the immediate solution mechanism our innocent people is worrisome”. alleged move would commence from Orlu, Imo State in of the insecurity at hand. People of good conscience According to him, “We are encouraging the governors the next few days, warning that the federal government have condemned the call and urged the President to of the South east, including our Imo State governor, Hope should learn from history by not fighting an unwinnable rescind such directives and possibly call for a dialogue or Uzodimma to speak up on the ills of the society. The war against nationalism. stakeholders meeting to iron out the issues. federal government is dividing us, external forces coming Ohanaeze further advised the Buhari-led government Amid rising insecurity that has enveloped the to Imo State to continue to kill our people in the pretence to “seek possible peaceful options as the only solution Southeast region, stakeholders are raising concerns over of protecting us. Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and that guarantees national unity and peaceful co-existence”, the Presidency’s directive of “shoot-on-sight” order. The the Eastern Security Network (ESN) came up because the just as it observed that the dream of Nigeria’s unity was concerns specifically arose over the order targeted at federal government had been treating the people of the receding and fading fast with violence, crises and conflicts. protesting Igbo youths, especially, against the backdrop Southeast as slaves and second class citizens”, he said. Credible information has it that the Nigerian military has of recent posting of northern soldiers to quell the distur- Last week, apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, drafted reinforcement troops from some of its formations bances as well as their mode of engagement in the zone. Ohanaeze Ndigbo, raised fresh worries over the directive fighting insurgency in Borno State to join the troops in the The Catholic Archbishop of Owerri Archdiocese, to contain the tension when it condemned the “shoot- Southeast region over military’s clash with the Indigenous Most Rev. Dr. Anthony Obinna, while commending the on-sight” order and insisted that the situation clearly People of Biafra (IPOB) and its security arm, the Eastern decision of the 17 Southern Governors that met last week confirmed the uneven handed way the federal govern- Security Network (ESN). in Asaba, capital, where they took a collective ment had been treating matters affecting the people of the Military sources alleged that the reinforcements were decision to ban open grazing and sent a strong message zone. drawn from some battalions including the 231 Tank to the federal government on restructuring, flayed the Ohanaeze insisted that the way and manner soldiers Battalion in Biu, Borno State, which is under the 3 authorities for the mass movement of soldiers and police were carrying out their duties in the zone in the guise of Armoured Division, Jos, Plateau State. As of January 2021, from the Northern part of the country to Southeast checking insecurity, indicated that a plot was afoot that the Commanding Officer of the 231 Battalion, Biu, was a without clear mission of their movement. could trigger “another war and genocide in the zone. southerner, Lt. Col. M. E. Obi, who is ordinarily versed in He accused them of ulterior motives, even as the “The pattern of deployment of northern military of- the workings of the South-East. But, it is not sure whether people of the Southeast are being subjected to series of ficers to the southeast lends credence to the above report. he will be in the Southeast alongside the reinforcements. dehumanisation including killing of innocent people, Sahara Reporters revealed that in preparation for the “Yes, some troops are moving from the North East to especially, youths by these security personnel. above, the Nigerian army has posted Northern Muslims the Southeast as reinforcements. They started moving from The cleric, who spoke during the Sunday sermon at as Commanders over its operations and brigades in Wednesday. Among them are those from the 231 Tank the Assumpta Catholic Cathedral, Owerri during the Anambra, Imo, Abia, Akwa Ibom, Enugu, Benue, Edo, Battalion. They are believed to be more trained in quelling Delta and Rivers states. uprisings,” a top source confirmed. THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ˾AY 23, 2021 63 INTERNATIONAL Israelo-Gaza Imbroglio from a Polemological Perspective: The Nigerian Foreign Policy Dilemma

he word polemology, is the English translation What is noteworthy about the outcome of the wars is the for the French word polémologie, coined from the VIE controversial term of settlement. Israel is internationally required Greek words, polemos, meaning war, and from to return to the prevailing status quo ante before the Six-day war. logos, meaning discourse or study. Polemol- INTERNATIONALE Israel has not accepted this, apart from the return of Sinai Peninsula ogy therefore simply means the study, or more to Egypt. After the war in 1948, Israel ended up controlling most of precisely, the science of war. A French school of the Palestinian territory, including a part of Jerusalem, while Jordan thought has differentiated between a crisis and a  inherited West Bank and Egypt occupied Gaza. More than half of conflict in a study of all the wars since the 1770s. the Palestinian Arab fled or were evicted. Israel therefore had freer The fundamental difference between crisis and conflict is that a Bola A. Akinterinwa hands to take over their land. crisisT is the beginning of a conflict in the continuum of violence. Again, following Israeli victory in the 1967 war, Israel took A crisis is first a dispute that is managed by diplomatic means, Telephone : 0807-688-2846 over the control of the Gaza Strip and the Sinai Peninsula from without allowing the dispute to degenerate into the level of a e-mail: [email protected] Egypt, the Golan Heights from Syria, and the West Bank and East conflict, at which level there is use of force. Put differently, crises Jerusalem from Jordan in reciprocal action for Arab aggression. are managed by mediators and conciliators without the use of Israel offered to return the acquired territories in exchange for Arab violence, but when diplomatic conciliation or mediation fails and recognition of the right of Israel to exist and guarantees against gives room for the use of force, then the dispute necessarily be- future attacks on Israel. Arab leaders did not accept, except Egypt comes a conflict that has to be addressed from a multidimensional which did and negotiated for the return of the Sinai Peninsula to it. perspective. In this regard, there will be need to move beyond crisis Third and polemologically, the object of dispute is Palestine as management to conflict management and conflict resolution.. a territory, as a people, and as a religion. As a territory, Palestine, The Israelo-Gaza imbroglio is at the stage of a conflict, and, now which used to refer to the region located between the Mediter- therefore, beyond the crisis level. The imbroglio has a recidivist ranean Sea and the Jordan River until 1948 and the Arabs living character which is driven by international hypocrisy, injustice, there were called Palestinians since the early 20th Century, is unfairness and dishonesty of purpose. Put differently, the interna- geo-politically divided into four regions: Jordan Valley and Ghawr, tional community is placing greater emphasis on the management Coastal and Inner Plains; Mountains and Hills, and Southern of the conflict, rather than seeking an enduring solution to the Desert. It is bounded by the Jordan River towards the East; by the conflict. It has been more than 54 years of conflict management border between Modern Israel and Lebanon in the North, by the policies to no avail and lack of conflict resolution commitment. Mediterranean Sea towards the West and by the Negev towards Even though, on Friday, 21 May, 2021 a ceasefire between the the South. Palestine has some big cities, like Gaza, which is the Israelis and the Hamas was agreed to, thanks to much interna- largest; Hebron; East Jerusalem; Khan Yuris; and Nablus. With the tional pressure, there is nothing to suggest that the ceasefire will geo-political location of Palestine Arab in the southern part of the last. Ceasefire is nothing more than temporarily putting an end to modern day State of Israel, both countries are necessarily contigu- the shooting war or the hot war. The real war, in terms of holistic ous territories. This factor of contiguity largely explains their border hostility, which includes strategic objectives (that is, continued clashes. effective occupation of the territories illegally acquired during the What is important to note about Palestine as an object of a territo- 1967 Six-day war and the October 1973 Yom Kippur war, etc) is rial dispute is that the current violence between Israel and Hamas is yet to be addressed. And there is no signal to the effect that Israel is Geoffrey Onyeama, Minister of Foreign Affairs traceable to the geographical structure and the time of the Ottoman ready for a change in policy attitude. Empire in the 19th Century. As explained by an Emeritus Professor At the level of the Palestinians, who have shown readiness to by principles of inequity, unfairness and injustice. For instance, of Political Science at the University of Notre Dame University, recognise the State of Israel, and desiring to have Eastern Jerusalem as at 1948, the population of Palestine rose to 1,900,000 people, Alan Dowty, there were then clashes between religious and ethnic and Gaza as part of the constitutive territories of a sovereign State 68% of whom were Palestinian Arabs and 32% were Jews. When groups in Palestine. The then existing Arab residents considered of Palestine, Israel is still vehemently opposed to such an agenda. Palestinian territory was partitioned into two, 55% of the territory the new Jewish settlements as European in character and therefore It is against this background that the dynamics of the current was allocated to the Jews with a fewer population. The Arabs, with developed much hostility towards foreigners. Israelo-Gaza saga, which is a dimension of the larger Arabo-Israeli greater population was given 42% of the land. But perhaps, more interestingly, Professor Dowty also has it dispute in the Middle East, should not only be understood, but the This was most unfair in the eyes of the Arabs for various that ‘the Jewish settlers had tremendous incentives to minimise implications for Nigeria’s foreign policy should also be explicated. reasons..Jewish immigration to Palestine from 1933 to 1939 had all obstacles to settlement, including the inconvenient hostility of already generated much resistance, controversy and domestic the existing population.’ This observation clearly suggests that the The Imbroglio and Dynamics unrest, especially with the 1937 protests. Second, the United Na- origins of the saga between the Israelis and the Palestinians should At the epicentre of the conflict is international hypocrisy and tions approved the plan to partition Palestine into Arab and Jewish not be simply located at the level of the immediate causal factors. protection of imperial interests to the detriment of the interests States on November 29, 1947 and the Mandatory Power was Additionally, as regards the specific issue of East Jerusalem, both of the indigenous people of Palestine. First, following the defeat required to hand over power not later than August 1,1948, while the Palestinians and the Israelis want to have it as their political of the Ottoman Empire during World War I, Britain was given the State of Israel was also required to take off not later than two capital. Jerusalem as a whole, though internationally a corpus Palestine as a Mandated Territory by the League of Nations. By months thereafter. The State of Israel was eventually established on separatum, is traditionally divided into four quarters: Armenian, then, Palestine was inhabited by a Jewish minority and Arab May 14, 1948 with David Ben-Gurion as pioneer Prime Minister. Christian, Jewish, and Muslim. the State of Palestine already majority. The Jews began to mount a lot of pressure on Britain for Indeed, the problem in this case was that the British acted considers East Jerusalem as its own seat of power, while Israel a homeland. The then British Foreign Minister, William Balfour, completely as if there were no Palestinian objections to the plan of has already effectively shifted its primary political governmental already pledged in a Declaration in 1917 to create a Homeland for partition by the time of creation of the State of Israel and by which institutions from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. the Palestinians and also another Homeland for the Israelis. The time the League of Nations’ Mandate was also to come to an end. It is useful to also note here that Jerusalem was divided into East Declaration was included as part of the Mandate given by the There was no State of Palestine. This situation largely explains and West Jerusalem following the victory of Israel when five Arab League of Nations in 1922. Arab hostility against the establishment of the State of Israel, and countries launched an attack on the newly established State of In fact, in between 1933 and 1939, the Jews began to migrate also why the Arabs (Egypt, Jordan, Iraq, Syria and Lebanon) not Israel in 1948. One major resultant impact of the victory was that the to the would-be State of Israel. The Zionist pressure was to the only took the initiative of an unprovoked aggression against the more than 30,000 Arabs living in Western part of Jerusalem either extent that Britain had to refer the matter to the United Nations newly created State of Israel in 1948, but why some of them again fled or were evicted, thus enabling Israel to effectively occupy the for possible solution. The United Nations, in Resolution 181 (II) (Egypt, Jordan, and Syria) engaged in another war against Israel in Old City as part of its new territory and re-populated it with the of 1947, not only opted to terminate the mandate given to Britain 1967. This was the foundational dynamic or the cause profonde of the Jews, while East Jerusalem fell under the rule of Jordanian govern- in 1922 to administer Palestine, but also decided by a vote of 33 current Israelo-Hamas saga. ment for, 13 against and 10 abstentions, to partition Palestine into three: Without doubt, the problem became more complex with the Palestine Arab State, Jewish State, and Jerusalem, which was given Six-day Israelo-Arab War that lasted from 5th to 10th June 1967. Implications and Foreign Policy Dilemma an international status, as a corpus separatum (separate entity) mean- Israel first of all launched a pre-emptive air attack on Egypt and The first and most important implication of the more than 54- ing that neither of Palestinians nor Jews can claim sovereignty over Syria, followed by a ground offensive on Sinai Peninsula, the year old Israelo-Arab conflict is the principle of self-determination it. Palestinian Arabs did not accept the UN Plan partly because of Golan Height, the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, all of which were and right to live. The principles were meant to be applicable to international intrigues. captured by Israel. Egypt and Jordan were compelled to accept a both the Jews, who have been recklessly persecuted and who the International intrigues began with the double speak of the ceasefire on 8 June and 9 June, 1967 respectively. A ceasefire pact international community believes should be given a homeland British, who ensured a homeland for the Jews but not for the with Israel, was done on 11 June, 1967. All the captured territories on the basis of their right to live and also live in peace. In the same Palestinians. Ensuring the creation of the State of Israel was driven were annexed by Israel. vein, As the Jews declared the State of Israel, having met the criteria of territory, vibrant population and an effective government, they have entered into international relations, with more than 130 Above all, and in terms of foreign policy dilemma, it is difficult, if not impossible, to be the friend international recognitions. of the Arabs and the enemy of the Israelis at the same time. In the same vein, Nigeria cannot be In this regard, the lesson from it for Nigeria’s foreign policy is friendly with the Israelis and be unfriendly with the Arabs. Perhaps, more disturbingly, Nigeria’s that, sooner or later, if not sooner than later, the application of self- foreign policy of non-alignment cannot be applicable. This is precisely why there is a dilemma. determination principle cannot but be applicable in the struggle by the Yoruba South West and the Igbo South East in their struggle for The situational reality of the struggle for sovereign autonomy in Nigeria is the dynamic of the sovereign existence. Even though Nigeria does not subscribe to the main dilemma. Unlike when Nigeria had a strong policy supporting the Palestinian Liberation Monist doctrine in International Law, her acceptance of the Dualist Organisation, allowing it to have an office in Nigeria, and also straining ties with Israel in School cannot still prevent the implementation of the supranational order to support Egypt, any encouragement of the rule of self-determination in any country of obligation imposed by the principle of Self-determination. the world today cannot but negate the strategy of preventing disunity at the home level. And It is important to recall here that the UN General Assembly not only reaffirmed in 1974 the inalienable rights of the Palestinians to yet, self-determination is a fundamental right of every people. Besides, if Nigeria supports self-determination, national independence, and sovereignty, but Israel, she will not only be acting contrarily to the UN Resolutions that have been consistently also created a Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights condemning Israel’s illegal activities in the occupied territories. In terms of non-alignment, the of the Palestinian People. In fact, Nigeria acceded to both national policy is not about aligning or not to, but about the freedom of decision to do whatever. In this and international sovereignty in 1960 on the basis of Britain’s ac- case, aligning to support or not to support is also cannot be in Nigeria’s foreign policy interest. ceptance of the right of self-determination of the people of Nigeria. What is required is a non-alignment policy of true neutrality and not that of freedom of choice Read full article online - www.thisdaylive.com of what to do. This is the dilemma of any foreign policy action or inaction for Nigeria 64 THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ MAY 23, 2021 IMAGES n Afternoon of Tributes for Departed Media Leaders, organised by the Nigerian Press Or- ganisation and Broadcasting Organisation of Nigeria, took place at the MUSON Centre A in Lagos at the weekend. Here are some of the personalities that graced the occasion. PHOTO: Sunday Adigun

L-R: Ekiti State Governor, Kayode Fayemi, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, and Lagos State Governor, L-R: Alhaji Mohammed Idris, Prince Nduka Obaigbena and Malam Kabiru Yusuf Babatunde Sanwo-Olu

L-R: Chief Olusegun Osoba and Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu L-R: Mrs. Zenab Nda-Isaiah and Lady Maiden Alex Ibru

L-R: Alhaja Sinatu Ojikutu and Alhaja Abimbola Jakande L-R: Etsu Nupe, HRM, Dr. Yahaya Abubakar and Alhaji Muhammed Idris

L-R: Mr. Ted Iwere and Chief Onyema Ugochukwu L-R: Mr. Bayo Onanuga and Mr. Eniola Bello THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ MAY 23, 2021 65 IMAGES

L-R: Malam Kabiru Yusuf and Chief Ajibola Ogunsola L-R: Mr. Bolaji Adebiyi and Mr. Niyi Adesina

L-R: Malam Abubakar Isa and Mr. Jim Ovia L-R: Mr. Taiwo Obe and Mr. Kayode Komolafe

L-R: Mrs. Dupe Ajayi-Gbadebo and Mrs. Funke Egbemode L-R: Prince John Momoh and Mr. Fidelis Anosike

L-R: Mr. Frank Aigbogun and Prof. Raph Akinfeleye L-R: Mr. Louis Odion and Mr. Gbenga Omotosho

L-R: Mr. Azubuike Ishiekwene and Mr. Ray Ekpu L-R: Mr. Lade Bonuola and Mr. Lanre Idowu 66 MAY 23, 2021˾THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER THE ALTERNATIVE with Reno Omokri Understanding the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict have read many views on the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian are most Jews. The Israeli government should covenant to provide Muslims conflict, and sadly, one fact is clear, most of us outside Far from it. Their sense of injustice is based on the fact that they future reasonable access to all the Islamic holy sites in their territory, Israel are taking sides emotionally, rather than rationally. believe their ancestral lands were forcefully taken over by the Jewish and the Palestinians should affirm to do the same for Jewish and And as a result, we are becoming part of the problem, state. And to deny that they have a right to feel as aggrieved as Christian holy sites. rather than the solution. they do is only going to prolong the conflict beyond this generation Having said this, there is the need for the outside world to Notice that I say emotionally, as opposed to spiritually. and the next. understand that Hamas is not the government of Palestine, although I am not opposed to anyone deciding because he or she On the other hand, the Hebrew people and the Jews (not the they control territory. Hamas is an organisation that uses terror feels led by the Spirit of God. But make sure you are being same thing. Hebrew is an ethnicity. Judaism is a religion), feel that to advance its political agenda. Hamas states in their charter that led, not being deluded. they have returned to their divine and ancestral heritage, that they they are an organisation for only Muslims, meaning that Christian I What is happening in Israel and Palestine, is complicated. And were driven away from by first the Babylonians (also known as the Palestinians have no place in Hamas. They do govern the Gaza unless you understand the intricacies involved, your views and Medes and Persians), then the Greeks, then the Roman Empire, and Strip, which itself can be said to be a part of Palestine. utterances, especially if you happen to have some influence, will then by wave, after wave of successive invading foreign powers, of The government of Palestine is the Palestinian National Authority. complicate matters. which the most recent were the Ottomans and the British. They do not control Hamas. They have publicly declared that they First of all, those of us outside Israel and Palestine should not To not sympathise with them for the historical wrong done to are against terrorism and there is tension between them and Hamas. make the Israeli-Palestinian conflict a religious war. I have been to them, and their right to return to their divine and ancestral heritage Understanding the nuances and the delicate balance of power both Israel and Palestine. This is not a religious war. It is a territorial is to be blinded by bias. in Israel and Palestine is important because if you do not, you war. Both peoples have growing populations, but limited territory. Scripture is very, very, very clear on this. The ancient Israelites will see this current conflict as a straightforward war between the That is the bottom line. owned, lived, and loved much of what is now known as Israel state of Israel and the Palestinians. Of which it is not. It is more a There are Israeli Arabs and Christians, and Palestinian Christians and Palestine. It may surprise my readers to note that the Goliath conflict between Israel and Hamas. and Druzes. Not everyone in Israel is a Jew or a Christian. Not who fought David was a Palestinian. As were Delilah and the And even Hamas itself is not just Hamas. Hamas is believed everyone in Palestine is a Muslim. tormentors of Samson. to be armed and funded by Iran, in a proxy war against Israel, In fact, 17.8% of the population of the state of Israel is Muslim. The word Palestine itself is not a Hebrew or Arabic word. It which Iran sees as the major stumbling block to its acquisition of Yes. You heard me right. is a word that originated from the Romans, who called that area nuclear power, and thus regional dominance. Both Hamas and It may shock you to note that John Sununu, the former Governor Palaistine (sometimes called Palestina). Roman Emperor Hadrian Iran feel that Israel’s hand is seriously weakened with the ouster of New Hampshire, and later White House Chief of Staff to the is believed to have deliberately given the area that name to spite of Donald Trump. late President George H. W. Bush, is a Palestinian Christian. the Israelites, who revolted against Roman rule in 132 AD. And these conflicts will keep happening as long as Hamas, and Yet, the administration he served in is regarded as the most And the word Palaistine is itself derived from the Greek word, the Syrian-backed Islamic Jihad do not recognise the right of the pro-Israel government the United States has ever produced, with Philistia, used to describe the residents of that area. state of Israel to exist, without conditions. the possible exception of President Donald Trump’s administration. So, you can see that the trouble in that area has historically been That is the main issue. That is the bone of contention. And that The George H. W. Bush presidency made it possible for the ignited, and inflamed, by foreigners. is what is militating against the Two States Solution. Ethiopian Jews, known as Beta Yisra’el, to return to Israel after Now, there is another angle to the conflict. The international However, there is good news. Hamas is changing. Over the years, thousands of years in the Horn of Africa. dimension. its leaders have made slight course corrections in their rhetoric and Sirhan Sirhan, the man who shot and killed Robert F. Kennedy Islamic nations outside Israel and Palestine are outraged by the stand against Israel. on June 5, 1968, is a Palestinian Christian, and he has since said fact that the Jewish nation controls the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem, They were once against the Jewish people, but now have modified that he killed Kennedy because of malice he had over the creation which is the third holiest site in Islam. their stance to be against just Zionism. of the state of Israel. What is lesser known is that the state of Israel funds over a So, given this history, what the outside world ought to do is So, to just think that this is a battle between Muslims and Christians hundred mosques in Israel and pays salaries to their imams and seek the de-radicalisation of Hamas, and move them from the means that you yourself are having a battle with ignorance. And other clergies. battleground to a common ground with Israel. ignorance is apparently having the upper hand! Christian nations on the other hand do not want the holiest It will take time. It will take statesmanship. It will take the carrot There are 500,000 Palestinian Christians worldwide. Their native sites of Scripture, which are almost invariably all in Jerusalem, to and the stick. But, it is possible. And the possibility only becomes language is Arabic. Their Christianity is so unadulterated, that fall under the control of Muslims. stronger when the world understands these nuances and acts they still go by the name that the followers of Christ were called What is not so well known is that when the Muslim Ottomans accordingly. in the first century, Nasrani, which is just Arabic for the Sect of ruled Palestine and Jerusalem, they did not stop Christian pilgrims It is not the duty of mere mortals like us to act as catalysts for the Nazarene. Read Acts 24:5 and you will see how poignant from coming to the Holy Land. Quite the opposite. There was a the Messiah’s return or the Mahdi’s appearance. God is God, and that identification is. massive migration of Christians (especially Orthodox Christians) to He is in control. What He has planned will happen. We are as There are also currently 14 Arabs in the Israeli Legislature (The the Holy Land, and churches flourished as a result. human beings do not need to help Him by blindly taking sides. Knesset). Arab Muslims are thriving in Israel and believe it or not, The tension between both religions, as I earlier mentioned, has God is love. And as Scripture says, “The work of righteousness will most of the traders you will find in the Christian pilgrimage sites more to do with foreign powers. be peace. And the effect of righteousness, quietness and assurance that dot Israel and Palestine, are Muslims. Over the millennia, those tensions have resulted in several crusades forever.”-Isaiah 32:17. So, perhaps you may want to reconsider supporting one side (from the Christian point of view) and Jihads (from the Muslim or the other blindly, based on religion. You may just very well perspective). Reno’s Darts: be a victim of propaganda. Now is the time for proper agenda, In all that time, the biggest losers then, as of now, were the native When Muhammadu Buhari took office on May 29, 2015, Nigeria not propaganda. Hebrews and Palestinians populations, who have generationally owed a total debt of N12 trillion, meaning each Nigerian owed So, instead of blind partisanship, why not just support peace, been the grass that the two big elephants (Christianity and Islam) N60,000. Today, we owe N34 trillion, meaning each citizen owes by calling for a ceasefire. Israel deserves to exist. Palestine also fight on. N170,000. Last week, Buhari asked the National Assembly for deserves to exist. How they can both co-exist, should be the focus Outsiders were the main problem and still are the main problem. approval to borrow an additional N2.3 trillion. If that request is of the world. Not who is right or who is wrong. The only solution possible, other than the Second Coming of granted, our total debt will rise to N37 trillion, meaning each Nigerian My barber in California is a Palestinian Muslim. He and I Christ, is the two-state solution, which guarantees the existence of an will owe N185,000. relate very well, principally because his wife is a great cook. The independent state of Israel, and an independent Palestinian nation. NBuhari will not repay that money. It is YOU and YOUR CHILDREN rest of the world needs to understand that the Palestinians do Anything short of this is to live with perpetual war until Christ that will. My people and I are not just doing #HarassBuhariOutofParis not feel marginalised because they are Muslims and the Israelis returns. because of you. We are also doing it for your children.

with Chido Nwakanma @ChidoNigeria THE PUBLIC SPHERE https://www.facebook.com/chido.nwakanma Circumspection is the Higher Courage he South-East has assumed promi- ignorance, why is there a resurgence of debates on Abuja? He fought a young man from Plateau State nence in Nigerian discourse once Ikwerre versus Igbo? Why? What is the trigger? but managed to pull in Biafran boys! again in the epochal months of Why are we suddenly dredging up the past? In Soon after came the deluge. The script was and spring. Informed persons know that whose interest? Igbo muru nu anya, biko. Pay remained to blame the Igbo for everything that during this period, nature releases an attention to the many mini-wars to which many will goes wrong in Nigeria, with IPOB and its Eastern outpouring of power into creation. drag you. Stay away from those fights. Unproduc- Security Network a convenient fall guy. The many “During early spring, the Earth’s axis tive.” instances include the false flag operation of an increases its tilt relative to the Sun, It is tempting to do a lamentation or to flare up attack on the epicentre of security in Owerri, Imo and the length of daylight rapidly increases for the in rage. Instead, I submit that Ndigbo should apply State; the Lagos State Commissioner of Police Trelevant hemisphere. The hemisphere begins to the ancient ako na uche. Ako is the intellect, while named IPOB for an alleged plan to attack Lagos warm significantly, causing new plant growth to uche is the spirit. Ana ma ako ama, mana ana enwe when US Intelligence warned about attacks on “spring forth,” giving the season its name”. Man uche. The uche is inbred and guides those willing Southern cities by Islamists. Reports now confirm utilises this outpouring of energy for good or ill. to listen to its still small voice. These times call for the Islamists have taken over Sambisa Forest. Spring is significant for Nigeria for birthing many circumspection and the wisdom of the serpent. The Inspector-General of Police then made the coups and disturbances. They include the first riots Please resist the urge to engage in the free-flowing plan an open secret. He stated, according to The in Northern Nigeria in 1953, 29 May Araba in 1966, denunciation and abuse of Malami and fellows of Punch, “Don’t mind the media shout; do the job and even the May 1978 Ali Must Go in Lagos with his ilk. His statement is part of the provocation to I command you. If anyone accuses you of human significant consequences for student unionism. gather stuff with which to accuse you. rights violation, the report will come to my table, May, June and July are epochal months in Nigeria. The Federal Government is playing a strategic and you know what I will do. So, take the battle Spring is equally the period when Christians realise effort to demonise the Igbo of the South-East as the to them wherever they are and kill them all. Don’t a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit in Pentecost. trouble with Nigeria. Intimations of the plan came wait for an order.” https://punchng.com/ig-declares- For this reason, endangered parts of Nigeria in snatches earlier in the year. Remember when the war-on-biafran-agitators-criminal-elements/. By Friday, should approach the season with circumspection. Code of Conduct Bureau chairman dragged himself 21 May 2021, the Police had not denied or refuted I observed on Facebook on 12 May: “Pardon my in the mud of a street fight at a shopping mall in this incitement. THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ MAY 23, 2021 67 with Chidi Amuta ENGAGEMENTS e-mail: [email protected] The Limits of Separatism ur numerous current worries have driven our Our political leaders tend to prefer being folk heroes than states- national conversation into a dark corner. The men. Thes are people whose basic recognitions are village based future of the nation has suddenly become the and who are more comfortable in local contexts where they stand subject of debate and argument. A slightly out among the poor and unwashed, people mired in poverty that confused and splintered national elite is running makes them ready hero worshippers. Our national political leaders all over the place with sometimes conflicting are not ready for the hard work of running a nation of 200 million notions of how not to keep our nation together. citizens. Instead, they crave minute enclaves inhabited by timid Nearly everyone you encounter has his own subjects, hence they would want the Nigerian reality cannibalized pocket book theory on what should happen to Nigeria now that and shrunk to little measures. OMr. Buhari seems to have run the ship aground. In the ensuing arguments about the fate of our nation, therefore, What began as muted disagreement among political factions Nigerians need to be reminded of the realities of the 21st century. has filtered into market places, motor parks and beer parlors. First, it is too late in human history to begin to redraw the maps Countless templates for the dismemberment of a nation are of nations or to hoist another cluster of flags at the forecourt of the being bandied around mostly by politicians, mostly those left UN building in New York. This is not the age for the birth of new out of the gravy train of power and others without party affilia- nations. Nor is it time to make room for nations founded on the tion. The terminologies are equally numerous: true federalism, foundations of mutual hatred, anger and exclusion. The last set of re-structuring, secession, separatism, “to your tents O! Israel” etc. nations that entered the arena through that route have not fared All these propositions are all jostling for pre-eminence in a national Look at the successor states of former Yugoslavia. Look at South discourse largely bereft of light but full of loud noise. Sudan. Nigeria cannot afford to go this route except it seeks to Generally, on what should become of Nigeria hereafter, the noise further miniaturize its options and diminish its chances for true seems to have crystallized around three poles. First, there are the greatness. secessionists who want to break away from Nigeria to form any Secondly, the future belongs to large and serious nations and number of successor sovereign states. The most staunch seces- organisations. National elites that delight in small entities and small sionists are first the advocates of a resurgent Republic of Biafra in national projects have no place in the world of today or tomorrow. the South East. They are operating under the aegis of a motley of or- You are either a large nation with equally big dreams or a small ganizations ranging from Nnamdi Kanu’s IPOB, Ralph Uwazur- nation with very huge dreams. The nations that will dominate the uike’s MASSOB to other opportunistic assemblies mushrooming world of tomorrow are large and complex nations, not small and around questionable individuals and motives. The Biafra trouble simple ethnic based nations. China, India, Russia, the United States has lately become a free for all franchise for all those who see in the and Brazil will lead the pack. Korea, Singapore and some new Arab sorry condition of the Igbos and their neighbours enough reasons states may trail. It is not just size that makes this club attractive. It is to highlight the serial bad behavior of the Nigerian state especially Buhari the strategic relevance, the market size, the potential for self-reliance under Mr. Buhari. Biafra is a 50 plus years old resilient ghost that knowing that when it comes to protection, isolation and national- will not go away in a hurry. For as long as people of the South East either by force or referendum. It is precisely for that reason that it has ism you can fall back on your human resources and market to feel the pangs of injustice, Biafra will return to haunt us all. to be prevented at all costs. There is hardly any strong argument in produce goods for your self and others. Then there are the newly energized devotees of an Oduduwa support of the secessionist option now. Excuses of marginalization More importantly, the pride and boisterousness of our citizens Republic in the South West. The possibility of an Oduduwa and insufficient inclusiveness in the current Nigerian system derives from certain inherent attributes that we have come to Republic as a response to Nigeria’s wobbly existence first became are not sufficient reasons to initiate the costly project of founding overlook. Ideas like the largest black nation in the world, the pronounced by the invading Biafran Liberation Army during the successor states. The ills that plague Nigeria are typically problems biggest black democracy in the world, one of the world’s ten civil war. The invading Biafra driven Liberation Army had quickly of diversity management. Nigeria’s diversity is a total one. At every largest democracies, the largest economy in Africa etc. add up to a overrun the then Mid West region on August 9, 1967, declaring level, diversity management is the central challenge of governance certain enhanced self worth for our citizens. These are all attributes it the Republic of Benin. Then under the command of a Biafran in Nigeria. It is there in every state and every local government that ought to make us proud but should also challenge us and Army Yoruba officer, Col. Victor Banjo, the Biafrans made a quick area. Within the defunct Biafra, there were issues with minorities. our leadership to work even harder. To cannibalize Nigeria now dash towards Lagos, with the declared aim of liberating Oduduwa Even among the predominant Igbo nationality, there were already into smaller ethnic republics would be a grave disservice to our Republic from the hegemony of Yakubu Gowon’s Nigeria. That problems between the Anambra, Owerri, Ngwa and Umuahia posterity. To have our citizens shrink from these lofty dimensions rapid advance was halted at Ore and respectively by Igbos. Within the Yoruba heartland of the proposed Oduduwa to carry some new inconsequential passports will impact badly a frightened Nigerian Army led mostly by hurriedly assembled Republic, there are clear and long standing divergences between on the psychology and self esteem of our people. Our younger Yoruba officers under Olusegun Obasanjo and others. The rest the Egbas and Ijebus, the Ondos and the Ibadans etc. Therefore, the generation are proud to be Naija with all the swag that goes with is history but the idea of an Oduduwa Republic took root in the quest for ethnic homogeneity cannot be a basis for the secessionist our sometimes over exaggerated self image. hearts and minds of the Yoruba people, some of whom were argument. Beyond the political noise of the current wave of separatism, I already rehearsing dances to welcome the Liberation Army in Among most enlightened Nigerians, there is now an undisputed suspect that Nigeria’s habitual entrepreneurship culture is helping Ibadan and other places. The postponed dance is now being consensus that something is fatally wrong with Nigeria’s federal- to drive and expand the new separatist wave. People are beginning rehearsed once again under the present circumstances. ism in its current state. The fear has been widely expressed that to make money from the season of separatism. Similarly, sporadic agitations around a possible the nation could die incrementally unless we restructure it in very I encountered the spirit of the age at an airport lounge the other Republic are as old as the history of restiveness in the region. The fundamental ways to make it work better for all Nigerians. This day. I ran into a friend who is in the same line of public affairs Isaac Adaka Boro revolt of the 1960s and the more recent militant is the thinking behind the new theology of re-structuring. This and communications consulting business. He asked me what I insurgency over resource control testify to a long history of Ijaw theology cuts across the entire length and breadth of the federation had been up to. I offered excuses around Covid-19 and how the nationalism on behalf of the peoples of the Niger Delta. Similarly, across partisan, ethnic and religious divides. Though it predates the consulting business has nose- dived. He smiled rather cynically the Middle Belt experienced earlier twitches of self -determination advent of Mr. Buhari, the restructuring argument has been fired up and proceeded to wake me up from my covid induced slumber. He as early as the eve of the 1966 military coup when the Tiv riots by the divisive politics of the Buhari presidency. Re-structuring is popped open his crocodile skin designer brief case to show me his attracted the intervention of the military to quell what was then thus being advanced as a silver bullet to right the injustices of recent trove on the hot offerings of the season. He was working for differ- termed an ethnic revolt. Here again, recent clashes between armed years and correct the long standing inequities of a dysfunctional ent “political investors”: secessionists, re-structurists, confederalists, herders and farmers have engulfed the entire mid section of the federation. integrationists -all politicians- for very handsome fees. His brief case federation consisting mostly of Plateau, Benue and Nassarawa It is important to recall that the clamour for the creation of states contained several nicely bound proposition documents. They were states. assumed nearly the same crescendo. Everybody wanted a state all templates for the dismemberment of the Nigerian nation. Therefore, in the unlikely possibility that secession becomes created in his locality. Every military coup maker wanted to create He had different packages on offer, depending on what specific a preferred option in resolving Nigeria’s current headache, the states to be remembered for and as a means of engineering legiti- clients want and how much they are ready to pay. The more currents of secessionist pressure will sweep away four of Nigeria’s macy to stay in power forever. Some of the current advocates of detailed ones, the ones for secessionist groups entailed more work. present six geo -political zones, leaving only the North East and restructuring were also in the forefront of the state creation bazaar. There were maps showing mineral deposits, agricultural lands, list North West as the residue of Nigeria. Those who want to under- We ended up with 36 mostly unviable and unproductive entities of local government councils, revenue projection holograms and stand the strategic posture of current drama of power should note that mostly exist to share monthly federal revenue handouts. The fancy administrative organograms. There were designs of coats of that throughout the , the core North, notably the federal allocation has become the treasure box of an entitlement arms, proposed flags, proposed currency designs and other insig- current North East and North West, have never exerted seces- state. nia of phantom sovereignty. Only the package on Biafra seemed old sionist pressure on the Nigerian state. They may have rhetorically The obvious third leg in the raging arguments about the future and familiar, needing little or no tweaking. It was followed by the hectored the rest of the country to respect their over lordship of Nigeria coincides with the incumbent government’s position. one about Oduduwa Republic and then Republic of Ogoniland as entitlements. In fact, at different times under the Buhari presidency, This is mostly a status quo position that insists that nothing is originally conceived by MOSOP before they hanged my friend Ken the Arewa collective has threatened to expel other Nigerians from wrong with the structure and business of Nigeria. For as long as the Saro Wiwa. the federation. At the onset of the Buhari presidency, they issued a gravy train of state pomp and ceremony proceeds uninterrupted, It was my question time. How many groups are you serving? ‘quit notice’ to Igbos living all over the core north. the existing order is fine. All those championing secession and How feasible are these options? Into how many units could Nigeria Of all the secessionist pressures, however, only two are the most restructuring are trouble makers. They had better queue behind the possibly splinter? Will a splintered Nigeria be safer and better lethal and pose credible existential threats to the survival of the National Assembly and support changes under normal constitu- governed than the current nightmare? When the wars over access Nigerian nation. This informs the security posture of the federal tional amendment processes. to the sea, control of oil and gas resources, immigration headaches, government in the South East and South West respectively. A However, for as long as the job approval and popularity rating right of return and other nasty consequences of broken national resurgent Biafra and Oduduwa Republics are real threats. If by of the Buhari government continues to slide, any suggestion that families break out, who will arbitrate between angry mobs of youth a nightmare scenario, both secessions become real, there goes Nigeria continues with business as usual will sound more like a with uncontrolled use of weapons? I had more questions but we Nigeria. Nigeria can overcome any one of them in isolation but a cruel joke. were interrupted by an announcement on the crackling public combination of the two will be a formidable adversary. However, All said, our unrelenting dissatisfaction with the state of our address system: ‘Air Peace Flight bla… bla… bla… to Abuja is the two pressures in their present iteration happen to contain self nation is a positive sign. Among the political elite, it is an admission now ready for boarding. All checked in passengers on this service defeating flaws. Both are led by thugs and mobocrats. Sunday of collective failure. Among the people, it is a clear signal that the are advised to proceed to the gate for boarding…!” As my friend Igboho and Ganiyu Adams on the one hand and Nnamdi Kanu performance of the state falls far short of the minimum expectation packed his pile of documents and snapped his brief case to leave on the other are mere random mob thugs that have sprung up to of the people. But let us face it, our political leaders are lazy, timid me at the lounge, he had a parting joke for me: “Don’t forget to give lead separatist movements in parts of the country with the most and lack the competence to confront the huge challenges of nation me a call in case you need a visa the next time you are coming to sophisticated political cultures. Failure is inbuilt in both flanks. building. Worse still, they have proved incapable of running large visit me in Owerri or going to Ibadan!” Thugs can disturb the peace; they do not found serious nation entities. They seem to be uncomfortable with running units that are While he left to catch his flight, I stayed and waited for mine, states. bigger than their villages, local governments and ethnic nationali- content and not the least worried about remaining a Nigerian Secession is therefore the most lethal and least tenable option ties. citizen AB (After Buhari)! 68 THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ˾Ͱͱ˜ͰͮͰͯ

News Editor: Gboyega Akinsanmi NEWS E-mail: ÑÌÙãÏÑ˲ËÕÓØÝËØ×Ó̶ÞÒÓÝÎËãÖÓàÏ˛ÍÙט͸΀͹ͽͺͻͽ΁ͺͽͻ In Four Months, Nigeria Loses 340 Security Personnel to Armed Attacks ‡ Global Rights accuses govs of paying criminals to buy peace ‡ Says impunity now motivation for criminal activities Gboyega Akinsanmi thereby making 2020 a brutal same timeframe equivalent Abiodun Baiyewu, concluded and amnesty does not augur ensure justice “is a motivation year for most Nigerians amid the to 50.4% of total fatalities that that Nigeria “is clearly a fragile well for the country. for reprisal attacks by aggrieved No fewer than 340 operatives outbreaks of COVID-19 and the occurred in 2020. state, and remains vulnerable to Rather, according to the persons and communities. of the defence and security eruption of #EndSARS protests Based on geo-political zones, combustion from several forms Washington-based rights organ- “In spite of the hundreds services died during separate It had revealed that mass according to the report, 989 of atrocities. The question to ask isation, the reign of impunity of armed pillages that have armed attacks that took place atrocities-related killings by violent fatalities were recorded is: what are its government and has emboldened perpetrators to occurred in the North, security nationwide between January region affected no fewer than in Northwest; 332 in Northeast; citizens doing to stem the tide?” increase their activities and serves agents have barely been able to and April 2021, Global Rights, 1527 (33.5%) in the Northwest 331 in North Central; 256 in With the huge records of un- as a motivation for other actors make arrests. There have been an international human rights with Katsina, the home state of Southeast; 191 in Southwest resolved crimes, the organisation to cash in on the monopoly of no prosecutions for these crimes. organisation based in Washing- President Muhammadu Buhari, and 161 South-south. observed that Nigeria’s penchant violence. The same lens would apply ton D.C., has revealed in a new recording second highest after Global Rights, in a remark of covering multitudes of crimes It, therefore, noted that lack to kidnaps, and communal report.The report, which covered Kaduna; 1508 (33.08%) in the by its Executive Director, with the blanket of impunity of trust in the government to conflicts.” the violent incidents nationwide, Northeast, 685 (15.03%) in the also revealed that the numbers North-central, 443 (9.72%) in the of lives lost between January and South-south, 231 (5.07%) in the April, painted a dreary picture South-west and 162 (3.55%) in of the declining state of security the South-east and increase in human rights However, according to the infractions across the federation. update released to THISDAY The incidents were revealed by the organisation, the country’s in the Mass Atrocities Casualties defence and security services Tracking Report, a publication incurred loss of 340 security of Global Rights, obtained by personnel fatalities nationwide THISDAY at the weekend, between January and April 2021 signposting unprecedented alone. deterioration in the state of Of the 340 security personnel security when compared with fatalities, the report revealed that the previous year. the Nigerian Army lost 193 of- In its 2020 report, for instance, ficers to violent incidents; the Global Rights claimed that Nigeria Police 131; the Nigeria Nigeria’s sub-national govern- Navy four; the Nigeria Customs ments had lost confidence in the Service (NCS) three; the Nigeria capacity of the federal govern- Security and Civil Defence Corps ment to provide security amid (NSCDC) three and the Nigerian rising cases of mass atrocities that Correctional Service two and claimed 4,558 lives nationwide Civilian JTF four. in 2020. While the report put the It had also claimed that the security personnel fatalities reported cases of mass atrocities at 340 between January and in 2020 represented a 42.9% April 2021, it revealed that EXERCISING SUFFRAGE . . . increase above 3,188 incidents violent killings claimed 2,260 Oyo State Governor, Mr. Seyi Makinde casting ballot during the local government election at ward 11, Unit 001, Abayomi Iwo Road, Ibadan North East recorded nationwide in 2019, lives nationwide within the Local Government Area, Ibadan .... yesterday Injustice Fuelling Agitation for Oduduwa Nation, Nonagenarian Tells Buhari

Victor Ogunje in Ado Ekiti Oduduwa Nation to injustice, certificate scandal allegation that rights activist, Chief Sunday would continue until everyone all forms of noticeable injustice. suffering and lack of trust in trailed Buhari’s election Adeyemo (a.k.a Sunday Igboho). up to the lagoon are under their The federal government can A 90-year-old foremost the federal system. According to him, I had the He, however, acknowledged political and cultural hegemony. create more states and local educationist Chief Olu Alex He made these remarks opportunity of issuing WAEC that Oduduwa “is a genuine “As much as I do not support governments to even spread Ajayi yesterday urged President during a news conference he certificates to three former Heads agitation and reaction against the breakup of Yoruba Nation our resources.” Muhammadu Buhari to address addressed in Ado-Ekiti, the Ekiti of State namely President the insult we are receiving from from Nigeria, we are entitled to The nonagenarian, also, injustice eroding patriotism among State capital yesterday to herald Muhammadu Buhari, Gen. some people who thought they self respect, self reverence and supported the decision of Nigerians and igniting sectarian his 91st anniversary holding on Ibrahim Babangida and late are superior and more entitled liberty. We should be free from the Southern Governors agitations nationwide June 28. Gen. in the 60s. than us. oppression,” Ajayi said reflecting Forum to prohibit open Ajayi, also an erstwhile Registrar In a 2016 interview, the Speaking during the confer- “It is a necessary reaction on serial herdsmen attacks on grazing, describing open of West African Examinations nonagenarian claimed that he ence yesterday, Ajayi rejected from the unthinkable insult farmers in Southwest. grazing as anachronistic Council (WAEC), expressed had the opportunity to issue the agitation for the secession we are getting from some He, therefore, urged the and primitive that should support for a united Nigeria, WAEC certificate to President of the Southwest people being people. One of those that had federal government “to stop the not be encouraged in the though attributed agitation for Buhari in the 1960s amid the championed by a Yoruba human been insulting us even said they agitation. This requires addressing 21st century. Chidoka Faults Acting IG’s Directive against Biafra Agitators Regulate Social Media to Save Our Youths, Oyedepo Tells FG David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka the IG’s directives as unfortunate jurisdiction. Oluchi Chibuzor on the youths. their future by robbing them and unacceptable. “In furtherance to the goals of Oyedepo, in an address titled of their time.” A former Minister of Aviation, Alkali had directed police this special operation, I charge you The Chancellor of Covenant “A Wakeup Call to Generation Oyedepo said it was time the Osita Chidoka, has faulted an operatives in the South East and to henceforth, defend yourselves University (CU), Dr. David on the Wrong Side of History,” nation dealt with the virus of order of the Acting Inspector South-South to deal ruthlessly with courageously against any armed Oyedepo at the weekend said the social media had social media before it caused it General of Police, Mr. Usman Biafra agitators while assuring the group that attempts to attack you, warned that the use of social eroded the abilities of the to have zero number of heroes Alkali, directing the police officers officers of the protection of the any police assets, and other media among the younger gen- nation’s emerging generation, across all sectors. to deal ruthlessly with criminal Nigeria Police. critical national infrastructure,” eration was a huge distraction, leading to an increase in cyber “The social media saga has elements and secessionists who The police chief had issued Alkali had ordered the police leading them to invest their crimes and other social vices. eroded the destinies of most attempt to test their will. the directive after he unveiled officers. time wrongly. The chancellor, also, noted youths today. What is supposed Chidoka, an erstwhile Corps a special operation codenamed Faulting Alkali’s directive in Oyedepo, Presiding Bishop that many youths “are not to be a plus has suddenly Marshal/Chief Executive of Operation Restore Peace (Opera- a statement yesterday, Chidoka of Living Faith Church World- investing adequate time into become a major minus because Federal Road Safety Corps tion RP) at the Michael Okpara insisted that the directive was wide, therefore challenged resourceful ventures but rather everything of value is delivered (FRSC), noted that Alkali’s Square in Enugu, the state capital. “against minimum democratic the federal government to in the wrong usage of social through investment of time. directive “is as problematic Alkali had said: “You are norms and human right prin- regulate social media before it media. “Suddenly we are faced with as it is embarrassing,” say- charged to be civil with the ciples.” caused the country incalculable “I recently defined planning a generation on the wrong side ing it violated minimum law-abiding citizens, but firm Chidoka said the police direc- damages. as programming to secure of history. The honour of this democratic norms and human and ruthless with criminal tive “is as problematic as it is Oyedepo made this remark the present and capture the generation has been wiped off, rights principles. elements and secessionists that embarrassing in a democracy, at the 15th convocation of the future. This needs time for chatting all day with no time He faulted Alkali’s directive may attempt to take the risk of and a country founded on the university held in Ota, Ogun implementation and that is left to think, plan, programme in a statement by his media aide, testing your will or threatening rule of law with guaranteed State, on Friday, lamenting the the trap of social media. It and engage productively in the Mr. Ezechukwu Okafor, describing the citizens within your area of fundamental rights. negative effect of social media unconsciously robs people of pursuit of any task.” THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ˾Ͱͱ˜ͰͮͰͯ 69 NEWSXTRA PFN: Nigeria Needs New Constitution, Not Amendment ‡'HVFULEHVOHJDOGRFXPHQWDVDQWLSHRSOH‡'HPDQGVDWUXO\IHGHUDOLVWFRQVWLWXWLRQ

Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan 27 across the six (6) geo-political restructuring Nigeria, as desired 56-man Steering and Constitution Senate President, Ovie Omo-Agege Ahmed, Adamawa; Bassey zones of the country.” and canvassed by millions of Review Committee in February (Chairman); Senate Leader, Yahaya Akpan, Akwa-Ibom; Stella The Pentecostal Fellowship of Consequently, the fellowship Nigerians and the Pentecostal 2920The announcement was Abdullahi; Deputy Leader, Ajayi Oduah, Anambra; Haliru Jika Nigeria (PFN) yesterday rejected said the current constitution, which Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN),” made moments after the start of Boroffice; Minority Leader, Enyin- Dauda, Bauchi; Biobarukuma the review of the 1999 Constitution serves as the conveyor belt for the it added Thursday’s plenary. The commit- naya Abaribe; Deputy Whip, Deji-Eremenyo, Bayelsa; Gabriel by the National Assembly, saying administration of the country, was The fellowship demanded tee has all principal officers as Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi; Deputy Suswam, Benue; Abubakar Kyari, Nigeria needed a new constitution anti-people and faulty. a new constitution, which it members; one Senator from each Minority Leader, Emmanuel Borno; Gershom Bassey, Cross and not amendment of the existing “We declare that the present said would guarantee a truly State of the Federation, and two Bwacha; Minority Whip, Philip River; James Manager, Delta; document. constitution is not a people’s federalist structure for the good Senators selected to represent each Aduda; and Deputy Minority Samuel Egwu, Ebonyi; Mat- PFN, a voluntary fellowship of constitution and does not, in and prosperity of all Nigerians. geo-political zone in the country. Whip, Sahabi Alhaji Ya’u. thew Urhoghide, Edo; Opeyemi pentecostal churches and organisa- any way, reflect the aspirations Meanwhile, the President of Principal officers on the mem- Lawmakers selected to Bamidele, Ekiti; Ike Ekweremadu, tions, canvassed the enactment and yearnings of the PFN and the Senate, Dr. Ahmad Lawan bership of the Constitution Review represent each State include: Enugu; and Mohammed Danjuma of a new legal document that the people of Nigeria at large. announced the membership of a Committee include: the Deputy Theordore Orji, Abia; Aishat Goje, Gombe. would be in agreement with “The PFN is firmly of the view the socio-political realities of the that the review process by amend- country and capable of enhancing ing a segment of the constitution, national economic development might just be an exercise in futility on all fronts. that cannot meet the expectation of These demands were contained the people”, the statement further in a statement jointly signed by maintained PFN’s National President, Bishop To this end, the PFN said it was Wale Oke; National Secretary, Dr. joining forces with other groups Cosmas Ilechukwu and National in the country in repudiating the Legal Adviser, Funmi Quadri 1999 Constitution, calling for the (SAN) yesterday. enactment of a new one that would In the statement titled Nigeria’s be acceptable and more pliable to Constitutional Review: PFN’s the yearnings of Nigerians. Stand, the fellowship lamented It said: “We stand with the that the existing 1999 Constitution different groups and people “is fraught with irregularities that across the length and breadth are not helpful for the growth of of Nigeria in rejecting the 1999 the federation.” Constitution, and maintain that The statement said the PFN it cannot deliver a framework for “is aware of the on-going con- good governance. stitutional review process being “We do not see the ongoing undertaken by the Senate of the process of proposed alteration to Federal Republic of Nigeria and the the provision of the Constitution public hearing sessions scheduled of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, by the Senate for May 26 and 1999” achieving the objectives of RENDERING ACCOUNT . . . L-R: Chairman, Teaching Service Commission, Lagos State, Mrs. Funmilayo Ariyo; Chairman, State Universal Basic Education Board, Mr. Alawiyo King; 47 Candidates Jostle for Five Special Adviser to the Governor on Education, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab; Commissioner for Education, Mrs. Folashade Adefisayo and Permanent Secretary, Information & Strategy, Mr. Olusina Thorpe, at the 2021 ministerial press briefing to mark Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s mid-term administration in Permanent Secretary Positions Alausa, Ikeja ... Friday ETOP UKUTT Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja Economic and Financial Crime Commissioner (EFCC) and A screening panel has cleared 47 Independent Corrupt Practices candidates for written examination and Commission (ICPC), attended Ekiti Teachers Protest Police Assault on School Principal, Others on May 31 to fill vacant positions the candidate screening process Victor Ogunje in Ado Ekiti yesterday at a session with school in an unethical hairdo, police officers with assurance that of permanent secretary in the as observers. journalists, describing the action which according to the school the matter would be thoroughly federal civil service. “The screening exercise is investigated. This was revealed in a cir- headed by the Permanent Sec- Teachers in Ekiti State have of the four police officers as management, breached the cular REF NO: ACSF/CMO/ retary in the Ministry of Transport, faulted some police officers disgusting and unacceptable. standard set for all students In a statement by the com- AOD/012/1X/4 signed by Dr. Dr. Magdalene Ajani assisted by for allegedly assaulting the At least, four armed police irrespective of their classes. mand’s spokesperson, Mr Folashade Yemi-Esan, saying the Permanent Secretary Career principal and some teachers of officers had invaded Mary But at the session with Sunday Abutu, the command President Mohammadu Buhari Management Office, in the Office Mary Immaculate Secondary Immaculate Secondary journalists yesterday, the ASUSS confirmed that the identities approved the exercise. of the Head of the Civil Service of School, Ado Ekiti due to the School, Ado Ekiti, where they Chairman disclosed that the of the police officers had been The circular revealed that the the Federation, Alhaji Mamman school’s decision to discipline allegedly attacked, assaulted case of assault on the principal tracked. Office of the Head of the Civil Mahmuda,” the circular revealed. for unruly behaviour. and harassed the principal of and his female colleagues The statement said the police Service of the Federation had The circular also, said the Consequently, the teachers the school and some female had been reported to command “is not unaware of a shortlisted 47 officers out of 51 Director, Employee Mobility called on the Nigeria Police, teachers without just cause. the Ekiti State Police reported case of indiscipline at candidates who faced a screening in the Office of Head of Civil especially Ekiti State Police The armed officers had Command. Mary Emaculate Girls’ School, panel from May 17 to 21. Service of the Federation, Mallam Command, to fish out the allegedly assaulted the principal Adigun said the union Ado-Ekiti, where a Police It added that the candidates Tijanni Babura would serve as police officers led by one and his female colleagues due was working with the Sergeant allegedly stormed “are bidding to fill the vacancies the secretary of the panel. Elijah Agnoise and punish to the decision of the school Ministry of Education and the school alongside four of of retired permanent secretaries In order to ensure the credibility them for alleged assault on management to discipline the Te aching Service Commission his colleagues and harassed and those retiring this year from of the exercise and ensure that the the principal and his female daughter of Elijah Agnoise for on measures “to end incessant the teachers simply because Ekiti, Katsina, Nasarawa, Enugu process aligned with the rules of colleagues. improper conduct against the harassment of teachers in Ekiti.” his daughter who is one of and Lagos states. Each state has engagement, the circular disclosed The Chairman of Aca- rules of the school. Meanwhile, the Ekiti State the students was questioned one vacancy. that the Head of the Civil Service demic Staff Union of Secondary Currently a JSS 1 student, Command of the Nigeria Police about the style of her hair-cut “Personnel from the Depart- of the Federation was present Schools in Ekiti State, Mr. Agnoise’s daughter, Gift Force yesterday responded to the which was not inline with the ment of State Security (DSS), throughout the exercise. Sola Adigun made this call Omeizie, reportedly came to assault allegation against the four school directive. Fintiri Pays Last Respect No Going Back on Yoruba Nation, Says Igboho James Sowole in Akure Roundabout, Akure, where they maintained. believe all these anomalies will to Late Murum Joel moved to some other parts of At the palace of the Deji end when the Yoruba Nation Adamawa State Governor, tion of the next Murum Mbula, The Yoruba Nation Solidarity the ancient town peacefully. of Akure, Oba Aladelusi comes to being. Hon Ahmadu Fintiri has but would ensure justice and Rally train arrived Akure, the The agitators comprised Aladetoyinbo, the Yoruba “Politicians have sold us described the passing of late fairness throughout the process Ondo State capital, yesterday as women, youths, okada riders, rights activist, Igboho said the to Fulanis. The Fulanis are Miriam Joel as a great loss in accordance with the tradition hundreds of agitators trooped to traders and artisans among agitation for Yoruba Nation now beyond their controls. not only to the Bachamas of the chiefdom. the city from the neighbouring others. They were in attires would not stop until it was It is time we free ourselves. but Adamawa and Nigeria He called on the people of Southwest states. inscribed with ‘Omo Oduduwa realised. There is no going back on as a whole. the chiefdom to continue to The city stood still for several ni mi’. Igboho, who arrived at the the agitation. We do not want The governor spoke at the live together peacefully for the hours, as agitators embarked on Operatives of the Ondo State palace at about 3:00 p.m., an election in 2023. I have funeral of the late royal father development of the area. a rally while awaiting the arrival Police Command, Nigeria said there was a need for a strong belief that we are in Numan, saying the deceased The funeral service was at- of Chief Sunday Adeyemo (a.k.a Security and Civil Defence the traditional rulers to be going to succeed.” was a leader of high repute tended by Deputy Governor Sunday Igboho) Corps (NSCDC), Western given prominent roles in the He noted that the state who dedicated his life to the Chief Crowther Seth, Chief of The agitators, who converged Nigeria Security Network (a.k.a constitution to get them more governor, Mr Rotimi Akeredolu service of humanity and God Staff Government House, Prof. under the aegis of Ilana Omo Operation Amotekun), Nigerian involved in the administration of “is in support of the rally that and hopes that his successor Maxwell Gidado and senior Oodua, chanted various Army and other local security the state and local governments. was held in Akure. The governor will build on that legacy. government officials, Emirs and solidarity songs to show their agents were also stationed at He said traditional rulers “are is aware of our rally. We are no He said his administration Chiefs among other dignitaries seriousness about the mission. strategic locations in the town supposed to be the fathers of all, more under the Fulani again. would not interfere in the selec- within and outside Adamawa. They began the rally at Isikan to ensure law and order was but they have been relegated. I All we want is Yoruba Nation.” 70 THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ˾Ͱͱ˜ͰͮͰͯ NEWSXTRA ASUU Faults Exclusion of Female Candidate from NAUTH CMD Contest Tobi Soniyi Teaching Hospital, (NAUTH) at the NAUTH, the petition interview after the screening Section 5, clearly states the a due diligence process, seeing Awka, . said Adinma, a Professor of exercise. required criteria for appointment that the previous screening and The Academic Staff of The Chairman of ASUU Community Medicine and an It said: “Sequel to a discreet to the office of CMD, and being interview appear to be bereft of University Union (ASUU), at the institution, Dr. Steve ASUU member applied for the investigation it was discovered 56 year old or less is not one merit, guided by discrimination Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Ufoaroh made this allegation position and on March 24 her that she was screened out only of the requirements of the Act. and aimed at depriving our Awka has written to the Minister in a petition to the Minister of name was shortlisted among on the ground that she was over “It is grossly unjust, unlaw- member of her rights.” of Labour, Dr Labour, Dr Chris Ngige, saying the 19 other candidates who 56years ‘deemed’ unqualified ful and discriminatory to have The petition was copied to At- complaining about the exclusion Prof. Echendu Adinma was qualified to be screened for the for the said position and dis- denied our member her rights to torney General of the Federation, of one of its members from the unlawfully excluded from to said position. criminatorily ‘tagged’ over age.” participate in the said interview Secretary to the Government of selection process for the post the CMD contest. However, according to the It stated that the requirements for the post of CMD NAUTH the Federation and the Chief of Chief Medical Director of Pursuant to an advertise- petition, Adinma did not receive for the position were clearly spelt Nnewi which held on Monday of Staff to the President of the Nnamdi Azikiwe University ment for the CMD position an invitation for the final out and that being 56 years or the 10th of May, 2021 at Merit Federal Republic of Nigeria. less was not one of the listed House, Abuja, when she had ASUU wondered why its criteria that applicants were been duly shortlisted and is member was being disquali- required to meet. eminently qualified for the said fied on the basis of age when Family, Associates Pay Tribute to Late Babatunde Oshilaja It cited the Federal Civil Ser- position, more so she had called the federal government had vice Rules which provided that the attention of the Honourable approved new retirement age Tobi Soniyi lived a great life and on his all things we should give him the retirement age of professors Minister of Health to the gross for workers in the sector. own terms. thanks. Your death left a scar in the academic field would anomaly, in a formal letter.” Under the new condition of The ancient city of Iperu, He said: “Daddy, I really miss in our hearts but your legacy be 70 years. ASUU asked the minister to service, the retirement age of Ikenne Local Government you. I don’t have the words to will stand in our life.” The petition read in part: “In use his good office “to urgently health workers was increased Area, Ogun State Thursday, express how much I miss you. Babatunde Oshilaja was the same vein, the University redress and intervene on this from 60 years to 65 years. stood still, as hundreds of From a tender age, you have born on December 27, 1946. Teaching Hospitals (Reconstitu- matter and allow our member Also the retirement age for friends, associates, and family always told me that you loved He had his primary education tion of Boards, etc.) Act of 1985, to be invited for interview in medical consultants is 70 years. members gathered to pay last me. I grew up knowing it is at the Wesley Primary School respects to the late legal icon, normal to openly tell my father and then went on to Christ Mr. Babatunde Oshilaja. that I love him and vice versa. Apostolic Secondary School, Oshilaja, popularly called “This is not common in the where he dropped out after form Lagos to Close Iju Level Crossing for Night Rail Repairs Baba Oshi, died on Thursday, African tradition, but you loved 3 to join his father on the farm. May 13, 2021, at the age of 72. me and said it out loud and that Babatunde, unsatisfied with Lagos State Government has that alternative routes had been ing to Puposola through Charity, His wife, Christiana Oshilaja was it. I am glad that I told you life on the farm moved away announced the night closure of Iju provide during the temporary Abule-Egba. and children, Damilola Oshilaja, that I loved you, glad that you from home in search of a level crossing for repairs from closure. “Motorists from Pen Cinema Oladipupo Oshilaja, Iyi Oshilaja, knew. better life. He worked menial 8pm on Sunday, May 23 to 6am “Motorists from Abule-Egba Flyover can link Tabon-Tabon Oluwawemimo Oshilaja and “I know you are watching jobs to support himself, from on Monday, May 24. can access Iju through Jonathan through Abattoir, Charity to Ibukunoluwa Oshilaja led other over all of wife, your children, being a mechanic in Ibadan to The state Commissioner for Coker, Charity to Olayiwola Abule-Egba are available for use. dignitaries for his eighth-day and us. We all miss you terribly. loader before being noticed by Transportation, Dr Frederic through Puposola to Toyin Level Also, Ijaiye Road to Odo-Eran, by fidau prayer held at his residence I miss you terribly. I speak with a Lebanese businessman, who Oladeinde, said in a statement Crossing using Giwa, Oke-Aro. Mobil to Oba Ogunji, Pen Cinema in Iperu. you all the time and I know you was impressed by his command that the closure was to effect Charity to Abattoir to Okekoto to Flyover,” Oladeinde said. Speaking at the occasion, Mag- can hear me. of English and employed him repairs on the damaged rail Pen Cinema Flyover is another The commissioner advised istrate Subulola Osowe described ‘’An absolute genius is who as a porter track caused by an accident option. motorists to obey the law enforce- Oshilaja as a great mentor and you were. You were a great He later attended Obafemi involving an articulated vehicle. “While motorists From Iju ment officers deployed to manage an exceptional teacher. man. You advised me and Awolowo University for his According to the statement, Road, Jonathan Coker going to traffic flow during the course of the Speaking on behalf of the did your best to provide for LLB and graduated in 1977. government needs to effect Abule-Egba can navigate their night repairs at the level crossing. family, one of his sons Iyi Oshilaja my siblings. You did your best He progressed to the Nigerian the repairs on time to prevent desired destinations through He, however, said that the state said his father taught his children helping people. Law School and was called to accidents of the train running Ogba College Road to Jonathan government had prioritised the the importance of integrity and “I am saddened that death the Nigerian Bar with the class on the track. Coker, to Abule-Egba, as well as safety of Lagosians and would honesty, stressing that his father took you away. But God said in of 1978, (The Golden Class). Government, however, assured Iju-Ishaga to Toyin Level Cross- continue to do so. EVENT Ms Ibiyemi Perez Asaolu, an accomplished professional technocrat, turned 50 recently. She was joined by her friends and well wishers in a modest low-key birthday celebration as the public health situation permitted. Below were some of the faces at the event:

L-R: Justice Funke Amzat, Busola Alofe, Titilayo Adeniyi, Pastor Faith Ogbole, Funke Adedeji, Elohor Aiboni, Bidemi Belgore

L-R: Vivian Nwangwu, Oluwabamiwo Adeosun, Funke Quadri, Ibiyemi, Abidemi Belgore, Elohor Aiboni, Toyin Lekan-Lawal Celebrant with SSG of Oyo State, Oluwabamiwo Adeosun

L-R: Toyin Lekan-Lawal, Shade Moyo-Falaye, Vivian Nwangwu, Ibiyemi, L-R: Bunmi Ogundare, Ronke Alade, Ibiyemi, Pastor Faith Ogbole, L-R: Bukky George, Dupe Dada, Ibiyemi, Bose Adegunwa, Angela Adekeye Banwo Adeosun, Rita Olarewaju Jumoke Ajayi THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER ‡MAY 23, 2021 71

Edited by: Duro Ikhazuagbe SUNDAY SPORTS email:[email protected] CHAMPIONS LEAGUE SPOTS Top Four Battles Pit Liverpool, Chelsea, Leicester in Final Day Game of Death! Duro Ikhazuagbe with agency report eposed champions Liverpool are today in battle with Chelsea and Leicester for the two remain- ing slots in next season’s UEFA Champions League, withD Manchester City and Manchester United already assured of qualiÀcation. Jurgen Klopp’s men are level with Leicester on 66 points but their goal diͿerence is superior, meaning all the Reds have to do at home to Crystal Palace this afternoon is match the Foxes’ result against Tottenham. Third-placed Chelsea, one point clear of Liverpool and Leicester, travel to face mid-table Aston Villa. In mid-March, Liverpool were eight points adrift of fourth place but they have taken 23 points from the past 27 available and are unbeaten in nine games. “We just found stability, created conÀdence again or got it back, and scored goals in the right moments and conceded less, let me say it like this,” Chelsea Boss, Thomas Tuchel (fourth left) plotting game plan on how to end the Premier League season today in Top Four and guarantee of a Champions League ticket. Klopp said on Friday. But he warned that Liverpool’s recent Crystal Palace too much, what they nervy Ànal day. Champions League if they beat Man- “We’ve put so much hard work, so good run would mean nothing against want to give Roy in his last game maybe “It was an incredibly intense season, chester City in the Ànal of this season’s much quality and a very consistent a determined Palace side led by former as a manager.” nothing will change that,” Klopp added. tournament on 29 May. amount of results into the last few AnÀeld boss Roy Hodgson, who is A total of 10 000 Liverpool fans will “But we have it now in our hands to Tuchel wants Chelsea to Ànish the job months, that we want to Ànish the job stepping down at the end of the season. be inside AnÀeld for the match after a make a top, top Ànish of the season.” at Villa, so they can avoid going into the on Sunday. “Nobody should expect the perfect season played almost entirely behind Chelsea seized control of their top-four City showdown with the extra pressure “Three teams have a chance to catch game, like in the sense of an early lead closed doors because of the coronavirus. destiny with a crucial 2-1 win against of Champions League qualiÀcation at two places, and so the race is on.” and all these kind of things,” warned Klopp said having them back was the Leicester on Tuesday. stake. “For sure, for sure. We don’t need FA Cup winners Leicester potentially Klopp, whose side beat Palace 7-0 in “best news I can imagine” but he said Thomas Tuchel’s team will be guar- to talk around it, for sure it takes some face heartbreak for a second successive the reverse Àxture in December. they must stay patient, even if things anteed to Ànish third if they beat Villa, pressure oͿ,” Tuchel said of the beneÀts season after missing out last year after a “You have to Àght for it. I respect were not going Liverpool’s way on a although they could also qualify for the of beating Villa. Ànal-day defeat by Manchester United. CONFEDERATION CUP Enyimba Positive of Upturning Pyramids’ Advantage in Aba Today Duro Ikhazuagbe the logistic issues that dogged the Àrst No Nigerian clubside has ever leg in the Egyptian City conspired to defeated the Pyramids of Egypt. Fatai Osho, Head Coach of Nigeria’s derail his game plan last week. Two years ago, the relatively young last team in continental campaign this “Some shocking defending, tired- Egyptian clubside defeated Enugu term, Enyimba, remains positive that ness and a lack of concentration cost Rangers 3-1 in Enugu and 1-0 in the People’s Elephant can reach the us dearly in Cairo. We were not three Cairo in the group stage of the 2019 CAF Confederation Cup semiÀnals goals worse than our opponents,” Osho Confederation Cup. despite needing to overcome a three- emphasized. In some of the other Àxtures of the goal deÀcit when they host Egyptian Victor Mbaoma Àred Enyimba into second leg of the quarter Ànals, Mo- Pyramids in Aba this afternoon. the early lead within a minute when roccan Raja Casablanca take a perfect Enyimba lost the Àrst leg of the he stole the ball from goalkeeper Sherif four-victory home record this season quarter Ànal of the CAF Confederation Ekramy. into a clash of former CAF Champions Cup clash in Cairo last week to make But the hosts rallied back with goals League winners against famed Soweto this reverse Àxture a herculean task from Ramadan Robhi and Abdallah club Orlando Pirates. for the two-time African champions. El Said in the Àrst half. Although the odds have tilted to- “This tie is not over,” Osho told Ibrahim Adel compounded the visi- ward a Moroccan victory after they reporters at the team’s last work out tors woes with two more goals in the forced a 1-1 draw in South Africa, ahead of today’s game. second half to make this second leg a Pirates’ coach Josef Zinnbauer is upbeat He however admitted that sham- mountain very high to climb for the despite his side failing to score in their Enyimba players have a herculean task at hand today against Pyramids FC of Egypt bolic defending and tiredness due to Aba Elephant. last three away games. Atletico Edge Real Lewandowski Breaks Gerd to La Liga Title Muller’s 49-year Old Record Atletico Madrid edged city rivals Real seven years and their 11th overall. Bayern Munich’s Robert Lewan- the Àrst half against Augsburg with spell in charge. Nigerian born Austrian Madrid to the La Liga title in dramatic It was a highly satisfactory triumph dowski scored in the last minute of Manuel Neuer also saving a penalty. defender, David Alaba, and Javi Mar- fashion by coming from behind to beat for Los Colchoneros as they Ànished the season to break Gerd Muller’s Bayern, who had already wrapped up tinez are soon out of contract and both Real Valladolid 2-1 in the Ànal game. just two points ahead of defending 49-year record of Bundesliga goals their ninth consecutive Bundesliga title, played their Ànal games for the side, Diego Simeone’s side trailed to Oscar champions Real, who end the season in a campaign. said goodbye to their manager and a as did Jerome Boateng - who left the Plano’s strike but turned the match without silverware. Lewandowski looked poised to number of star players who will leave Àeld in tears when he was replaced around in the second half through goals Barcelona - playing without skipper be frustrated but pounced in the 90th this summer. on the hour mark. from Angel Correa and Luis Suarez. Lionel Messi, who was resting before minute for his 41st goal of the season. Hansi Flick was appointed in But the day belonged to Lewan- Real scored twice late on to beat Vil- the summer’s Copa America - won 1-0 The Poland striker now has 53 goals November 2019 and claimed the dowski, who was repeatedly thwarted larreal 2-1 but came up short as they at Eibar through Antoine Griezmann’s in 46 games for club and country head- Champions League, two Bundesliga by Augsburg keeper Rafal Gikiewicz needed Atletico to drop points. acrobatic strike and clinched third place ing into Euro 2020. titles, the German Cup, UEFA Super before reacting quickest to a fumble to Atletico clinched their Àrst title in ahead of Sevilla. The home side scored four times in Cup and Club World Cup during his roll the ball into an open net. T RU N Sunday May 23, 2021 TH & REASO Price: N400 MISSILE Book Your Global Rights on Impunity in Nigeria COVID-19 Tests & Vaccinations “Despite the government’s claim of being on top of the security TEXT‘COVID’ TO58123 situation in the country, the spread and context of insecurity have metastasized and shown no signs of abating, blackholing the enormous budgetary allocation to security.”

This service is provided in association with accredited service providers – A report by Global Rights on insecurity in Nigeria. SIMONKOLAWOLE SIMONKOLAWOLELIVE! [email protected], sms: 0805 500 1961 Dissecting Malami’s Spare Parts Logic And Four ccording to Mallam Abubakar administration. Anyone preaching national peace Other Things… Malami, LLB, BL, the attorney- and unity should be very disturbed. It would general of the Nigerian federation, appear that as many Nigerians are trying to de- RIP, ATTAHIRU minister of justice, senior advocate escalate the tensions in the land, some hardliners The death of Lt Gen Ibrahim Att ahiru, chief of Nigeria and member of the are trying to worsen matters. As the Mandators of army staff , and 10 other military offi cers Nigerian bar, banning open sang in 1988, ‘Some are trying to fi nd solutions in an air mishap in Kaduna on Friday was grazing is the rough equivalent to all the problems we have/Some are making so devastating. It is one of those things of banning trading in spare parts. Let me take it impossible for the problems to be solved.’ about life we can never understand. He thatA again. When you say herders and their cattle I smelt, in Malami’s words, a trivialisation of the was appointed army chief only in February should be legally restrained from invading people’s security challenges posed by the activities of the — and three months later, he is gone. We farmlands, destroying people’s crops, ruining herders. Of course, I do not belong to the group people’s livelihoods and pouring petrol on the of people who hold the herders responsible for must continue to ask questions about air inferno that is fast burning the nation’s delicate every crime committed in southern Nigeria. I also safety in Nigeria. If military aircraft can fabric, it is as good as saying people should stop do not believe in the conspiracy theories — the be dropping from the skies at this rate — selling spare parts in shops and markets. Do you herders had been giving farmers hell (including whether or not it is as a result of human understand Malami’s logic? You don’t understand up north) long before President Muhammadu error, bad weather, poor maintenance, it? Neither do I. Buhari came to power in 2015. But no honest whatever — the fact is that something is Reacting to the resolution of southern governors observer can deny that the activities of some just not right. Att ahiru had reinvigorated to ban open grazing as a result of security concerns, herders have been a threat to national peace in the war on terror and it looked like we were Malami said freedom of movement is guaranteed in recent years and the government has defi nitely going somewhere. And then this. What a the constitution and cynically asked the governors failed to address the issue decisively. To compare loss. Tragic. to seek an amendment. Listen to him, up close: “It Malami herders to spare parts traders is to turn the whole is about constitutionality within the context of the thing into a joke. SICK TROLLS freedoms expressed in our constitution. Can you there is no absolute right anywhere. Your rights Malami’s choice of “spare parts” as an analogy deny the rights of a Nigerian? For example, it is and the rights of others have boundaries. Your is an undeniable underhand reference to the Igbo Many of my friends were so worried — as good as saying, perhaps, maybe, the northern right to do business cannot override my right to who overwhelmingly control that line of business. disgusted is the word — over the jubilant governors coming together to say they prohibit private property. John Locke, the highly infl uential The 17 southern governors are from the three reactions of some Nigerians to the death of spare parts trading in the north. Does it hold English philosopher and “Father of Liberalism”, geo-political zones and cut across ethnic groups Lt Gen Ibrahim Att ahiru, chief of army staff , water? Does it hold water for a northern governor wrote in 1689: “Being all equal and independent, and party lines. Malami’s preference for “spare on Friday. Twitt er, in particular, was full of to come and state expressly that he now prohibits no one ought to harm another in his life, health, parts” trading can only be interpreted one way: nasty trolling, with some falsely quoting spare parts trading in the north?” liberty, or possessions.” that he is picking on the Igbo. Is this a fi ghtback him as saying over his dead body would From where I am sitting, I can see at least a While I have argued before, and will argue at the framing of herders as “Fulani terrorists” Nigeria break up. While mocking the dead is thousand and one fl aws in Malami’s spare parts again, that southern governors cannot ban open since Buhari came to power in 2015? If this was disgusting, it is no longer surprising. It has analogy. The fundamental one is a well-known grazing overnight, I also know that they did not Malami’s intention, I would say it was a poor become a new culture and should now be just wake up one day to take the decision because fallacy called “false equivalence” in logic — a one. A minister of the federal republic must resist regarded as a stage in the post-humanity fl awed reasoning also referred to as “fallacy of everything was going well. It was not as if open the urge to play the ethnic card, no matter the inconsistency”. We often call it “comparing apples grazing was winning gold medals for Nigeria temptation, no matter the urge. It is just too low. era that we are moving into, enabled by and oranges” in everyday argument. It works by and the governors decided to rain on the parade. While having prejudices and biases is only the social media. Unfortunately, those comparing two things based on a faulty criterion. We have a serious challenge that has unsettled human, you need to summon all the restrain celebrating Att ahiru’s death are still unable For example, arguing that since it is illegal for everybody across the country, not just the south. and maturity possible and rise above ethnic to see that it would not solve their problem, individuals to have bombs, it should also be Even northern governors issued a statement in sentiments in your pronouncements when you whatever their problem may be. Sickening. illegal to have Christmas bangers because both February admitting that open grazing was no occupy government positions. I fi nd it diffi cult to are explosives. A banger is not a bomb, for Pete’s longer sustainable, promising to promote ranching. understand how many people in government see DEAD AND ALIVE sake! It is a desperate and disingenuous way of And unlike Malami, they did not suggest that themselves, fi rst and foremost, as ethnic champions Reports yet to be refuted indicate that advancing an argument in which two disparate spare parts trading was posing a similar challenge who are in power to defend the interests of members Abubakar Shekau, the leader of Boko items are made to look alike! up north. of their ethnic groups. This mindset, or line of Haram, is fi nally dead. We are being In what ways would anyone liken open grazing I was in a team of journalists that toured Jigawa thinking, is not only regressive and unhelpful, it cautious because he had been reported to trading in spare parts? Open grazing means state in 2005 when Alhaji Saminu Turaki was is also very dangerous and harmful to the cause herding your cattle in locations that do not belong the governor. We were shown a ranch he was of national reconciliation, integration, peace and dead many times and he would do a video to you. That means you are encroaching on private building, complete with something called “rain unity. Our inability to distill our emotions is hurting to laugh off the reports. He is said to have or public property without authorisation. It involves harvest”. During the rainy season, water would efforts to tackle challenges that are dragging us committ ed suicide aft er being att acked feeding freely on pasture that was not willingly be stored in an underground system. Then in backward. by members of the Islamic State in West donated to you. It also involves destroying people’s dry season, it would be pumped to nurture the Malami’s pronouncements are all the more Africa (ISWAP), an off shoot of Boko Haram. farmlands and ruining their livelihoods. How on pasture. Turaki said this would guarantee fresh worrisome because ethnic champions usually Whatever the case is, we cannot celebrate earth can anyone compare that to selling spare pasture all year round and address the frequent begin to display their biases openly only after yet. Shekau had reportedly become parts in shops where traders pay rent? Do spare clashes between the itinerant herders and farmers they have left government — not while still active marginalised over the years, so his Boko parts shops use free utilities same way cattle eat in the state. He imported cattle breeds, and I service. We know many people who held top Haram has not been our major headache free grass unauthorised? Do spare parts sellers think it was an Argentinian expert that was government positions and even aspired to be in recent times. The real problem is ISWAP encroach on private or public property in the managing the ranching project. That is how to president but end up as leaders of one ethnic and they are believed to be the ones behind course of exercising their freedoms as traders? solve a problem. I never heard Turaki complain association or the other. You can guess that when If we are to advance a proper logical argument, about spare parts traders. they were in government, they must have been the banditry and kidnappings. Shekau is we should compare those who operate in a similar But banning open grazing “with immediate promoting one policy or the other meant to give dead but terror is still alive. Vigilance. fi eld — animal husbandry. So, let us compare effect” — as the southern governors want to advantage to their parts of the country. It could cattle farming with poultry and piggery. Those do — can only worsen our security challenges. be in recruitment and promotion. It is normally COVID CAUTION who run poultries and piggeries buy the feeds That is my point of departure. You cannot make after they have left government that they start As COVID-19 continues to devastate and the water and pay the rent if they do not herders disappear overnight, neither can you change wearing their ethnic badges everywhere. Malami India, I have been very worried for Nigeria. own the land. They are no less of business people from an open grazing culture to a ranching one cannot even wait for that long. It took a third wave for India to crack and than the herders. They are no less citizens of within the twinkle of an eye. We need to plan, to What Nigeria needs today is statesmanship. the dead bodies are piling up badly by the Nigeria, with constitutionally guaranteed rights, engage, to reach a consensus, to have timelines, to We need men and women who will say and do day. We just have to take precaution and than the herders. Why should herders be treated transition. Otherwise, there would be unintended things that will reduce the tensions in the land, stop peddling fables that we have natural any differently? Open grazing is not only outdated, consequences. This is no longer a pure agricultural heal the wounds and chart a path to peace and immunity in Nigeria. Some Nigerian pastors as we can see from modern global practices, it problem but some signifi cant political, ethnic and progress. Although southern governors have has become so politically explosive in Nigeria religious sensitivities which can explode in our controversially resolved to ban open grazing have blood on their hands as they continue that anyone who loves peace will only seek a faces if we do not apply wisdom. But then, the because of the crisis that has engulfed many to mislead their congregation into the path permanent solution. peerless Malami has suddenly emerged on the communities, they also provided a leeway in their of ignorance, even though you have to also Since Malami mentioned “constitutionally scene. communique by saying the federal government question how church members can so easily guaranteed” freedoms, I want to guess that he Aside his classic ill logic — “the herder has a should support “willing” states to develop an submit themselves to the manipulation. is talking about the right of every Nigerian to right to do business; the spare parts seller has a alternative and modern livestock management We don’t all have to take the vaccine since live and do business anywhere in the federation. right to do business; therefore, it is wrong to ban system. Federal government should take a more the anti-vax propaganda appears to have If my assumption is right, then his problem is open grazing” — there are far more troubling constructive look in that direction. Nigeria urgently worked very well, but we can at least keep bigger than I originally thought. Even a law undercurrents in Malami’s pronouncements. They needs problem solvers, not rabble rousers. We to basic safety measures. Caution. undergraduate, much less a SAN, knows that give away a lot about mindsets inside the Buhari need peace, not war. Printed and Published in Lagos by THISDAY Newspapers Limited. Lagos: 35 Creek Road, Apapa, Lagos. Abuja: Plot 1, Sector Centre B, Jabi Business District, Way, Jabi North East, Abuja . All Correspondence to POBox 54749, , Lagos. EMAIL: [email protected], [email protected]. TELEPHONE Lagos: 0802 2924721-2, 08022924485. Abuja: Tel: 08155555292, 08155555929 24/7 ADVERTISING HOT LINES: 0811 181 3085, 0811 181 3086, 0811 181 3087, 0811 181 3088, 0811 181 3089, 0811 181 3090. ENQUIRIES & BOOKING: [email protected]