82 Yauri Students Spend Day 52 with Bandits in Forest Anguished parents lament kids’ continuing stay in jungle Ismail Adebayo,Birnin Kebbi June 17 are spending their neighbouring Rijau forest freedom, leaving 82 in Their anxiety was and were training the males 52nd day today with the in , and abducted captivity. heightened by unconfi rmed for banditry. Eighty two of the 94 students kidnappers in the forest. the students and staff of the Parents of the students still reports quoting the leader of The parents, on hearing this, abducted by bandits at the The heavily armed bandits, school unhindered. with the bandits remain in the bandits, saying they had gathered at Yauri, and after Federal Government College, who came on motorcycles, Some students and staff, anguish over the fate of their married the females among the Birnin Yauri, on entered Yauri from the 12 in all, have since gained children. students out to their members Continued on page 5

Wema Bank Mulls Merger or Acquisition, to Raise N40bn Through Rights Issue… Page 5

Saturday 7 August, 2021 Vol 26. No 9616

www.thisdaylive.com T N250 R U N T H & R E ASO Army Chief: We’re Set to Take Battle to Terrorists’ Enclaves Says operations now re in vig o rated, optimistic about positive results soon Francis Sardauna in Katsina take the war to the enclaves Yahaya, disclosed this shortly would carry pave the way for peace and said with determination and of insurgents, bandits and after addressing troops at the out its operational battles to development to thrive. the right efforts by all and The Nigerian Army yesterday other criminals terrorising Fort the enemies’ enclaves both in While admitting that there sundry, “the security said it had re in vig o rated its the country. Forward Operating Base, the North-west and North-east were challenges affl icting the challenges are surmountable.” operations and strengthened The Chief of Army Staff Daura, . where most of their operations war against insecurity in them to enable the troops (COAS), Lieutenant-Gen Faruk He reiterated that the were being conducted to the country, the Army chief Continued on page 5 IBB on Corruption: With the Fact on Ground Now, My Govt a Saint Wants next President to be versed in economics, able to talk to the people Says military overstrained in war against terrorists Ahamefula Ogbu and be in his 60s in terms of age. Former military President, Answering directly on the Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida allegation that he popularised has described his regime as corruption, Babangida, who a saint, when compared was head of state between 1985 to the level of corruption and 1993, said: “Well, you can’t being witnessed today in the compare it with the fact on country under a democratic the ground now. From what government, and further I read, from analysis, I think denied the notion that he we are saints when compared popularised corruption in to what is happening under Nigeria. a democratic dispensation. Babangida, who spoke in an “I sacked a governor for exclusive interview on Arise misappropriating less than News Channel yesterday N313, 000; today billions from his Minna Hilltop are there in the streets. Those Mansion, also wants the next who have stolen billions are in Nigerian president to be an courts, and are now parading acceptable person who has themselves on the streets. contacts across the country, So, who is better in fi ghting and given the peculiarities in corruption?” our economy, should be well versed in economic matters, Continued on page 5 Remanded Aminu Yar’Adua Not Late Ex-President’s Son... Page 6 2 SATURDAY AUGUST 7, 2021 • THISDAY SATURDAY AUGUST 7, 2021 • THISDAY 3 4 SATURDAY AUGUST 7, 2021 • THISDAY THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾˜Ϳ˜ͺ͸ͺ͹ 5 PAGE FIVE Wema Bank Mulls Acquisition or Merger, to Raise N40bn Through Rights Issue Dike Onwuamaeze in terms of inorganic growth expected to hit the market manage the number of shares almost 90 per cent. Between Mabawonku said: “When could be with another financial in September, this month in issue, and that will impact 2019 and 2020 we grew our the CRR dropped below 15 The management of Wema player in the Nigerian bank of August is for us to have on our ratios. It makes sense deposit by almost 50 per per cent the board approved Bank yesterday hinted that “it or it could potentially be with a court-ordered meeting to to have more efficient shares cent. We will use revenue to immediate implementation of is considering” the acquisition a fintech or it could be the get shareholders together and in issue before doing the rights cover the increase caused by the bank’s capital management of a fintech firm or a merger acquisition of the smaller agree on the scheme of the issuance,” Oseni said. regulatory cost. Also, costs plan to bring shareholders with another commercial bank, fintech. But as time goes on, arrangement,” he said. He also said that regulatory were driven by inflation, forex capital from existing N60 as part of its growth plans. we will engage the market He said the bank would cost was among the issues and energy costs. billion plus to above N100 Speaking in during on that. embark on a road show that keep the bank awake “We believe we have billion mark.” the company’s half-year 2021 “We are looking at all from next week to sensitise at night and explained that started well and will end He also shared insight investors/analysts presentation possible options, whether shareholder groups and Wema Bank “is capable of this year very well. Although into the bank’s performance. (virtually), the bank’s Deputy you like it or not, no matter associations on growth plans. containing” the regulatory the external environment is According to him, the bank’s Managing Director, Moruf how efficient you are. In this Oseni explained that risk: “Are we able to navigate very tough we believe the profit before tax improved Oseni, said a merger and game, we are playing skill to the bank would reduce around it? The answer is yes. opportunities are numerous from N1.7 billion in half year acquisition (M&A) was part skill, and we also have huge its shares in issue before The whole thing (regulatory and will continue to focus 2020 to N4.3 billion in 2021 of its plan to ensure organic aspirations to scale up in the embarking on the rights issue risk) is to make sure that on growing our businesses half year, while its total assets growth. shortest possible time.” to ensure enhanced growth the Nigerian economy is across retail and corporate crossed the N1 trillion mark Oseni said the acquisition Oseni also announced Wema for shareholders. bootstrapped and that there is segments as we continue to and “the margins are better “is not limited to the financial Bank’s plan to sell shares to “Wema Bank today has a growth in the economy. Our execute our three year strategy than this time last year.” sector space.” existing shareholders to raise large number of shares in job is to navigate them as they to capture all the values in it The chief finance officer Oseni said: One of our additional capital of N40 issuance, but before we float are part of the business.” and will continue to play on also said that the bank had pillars is inorganic growth. It billion by September. the right issue, we need to The bank said its operating our digital domain.” grown its deposit base to N808 is either you merge or acquire. He said the capital raise get the shareholders to reduce cost moved from N17.6 billion The Chief Finance Officer billion with hope of reaching It is not limited to acquiring would give the bank an the shares in issue and on the to N20.8 billion largely due to of Wema Bank, Mr. Tunde N1 trillion deposit mark from the Nigerian financial expanded base of business back of that we then issue regulatory costs like AMCON Mabawonku, said during the He said: “Growth is less than space or with a fintech. We over the coming years to those rights. levy and NDIC premium. virtual event, that the bank N500 billion in the first half are looking at all possible compete favourably in the “This will not change the Oseni said: “The AMCON had started a process that of the year. But the interesting options this time around industry. shareholding structure of the levy grew around 50 per cent would hopefully grow its thing is that retail deposit has “A merger and acquisition “The rights issuance is shareholders. We just want to and the NDIC premium by capital base to N100 billion. grown by 10 per cent.” ARMY CHIEF: WE’RE SET TO TAKE BATTLE TO TERRORISTS’ ENCLAVES He said: "The essence of with other services and other collaboration between civil- explained that traditional Nigerian Army in synergy to the activities of informants my visit is to reinvigorate our security agencies and indeed military and paramilitary and religious institutions with other security agencies. whom he termed dangerous operations and strengthen other stakeholders. We are all organisations to checkmate had vital roles to play in He said: "We need more elements fueling banditry and them to ensure that the troops partners and together with the activities of the hoodlums the fight against insecurity cooperation and synergy kidnapping in the state. take the fight to the enclaves this synergy we will achieve within their respective areas in the country. from other security agencies The traditional ruler also of these criminals and destroy result, like we have seen, it of responsibilities in order to He added that giving and relevant stakeholders, opined that lack of credible them. has started gaining ground. ward off insecurity. security operatives vital and particularly traditional and information sharing and "That is what we are doing "There are challenges. The COAS, who also actionable information on the religious institutions as well synergy among security and this is what we will Sometimes, you see them, but paid homage to the Emir whereabouts and movements as community and opinion personnel “are responsible” continue to do. For every they are not unsurmountable. of Daura, Dr. Umar Faruk of insurgents, bandits and leaders to curtail or bring to for the security challenges place that I pass, that is my With the support we have Umar, appealed to traditional kidnappers would help the the barest minimum the issue afflicting the country, especially message. We must carry the from the President and rulers to support the military authorities in containing the of banditry and kidnapping". the North-west region of the battle to the enemies’ enclaves Commander-in-Chief, and and other security agencies situation. On his part, the Emir of country. both here in the North-west with the cooperation of by providing actionable He however noted that Katsina, Dr. Abdulmumini The emir vowed to support and even in the North-east other service chiefs, we will intelligence to combat security the worrisome situation in Kabir Usman, while in the Nigerian Army to achieve where we are conducting get there". challenges besetting some parts the North-West was already audience with the Army the desired goal in its ongoing them. The Army Chief called of the country. improving, due to steps taken chief, attributed the spate of war against insecurity in the "This is done in synergy for effective inter-agency The Chief of Army Staff by officers and men of the insecurity pervading the nation country. IBB ON CORRUPTION: WITH THE FACT ON GROUND NOW, MY GOVT A SAINT On the kind of President leadership that links with the 2021, said: “I do believe in the thanks to the engineering and qualities naturally embedded globally practiced, to choose Nigeria deserves in 2023, people and tries to talk with future of Nigeria, but Nigerians Maradonic way we handled in the multi-ethnic composition its leadership, insisting that Babangida ruled out former the people; not talking on top don’t believe in the future of you guys in the society; but of the country. it would be done now or in vice president, Atiku Abubakar of the people, then we would their country. They created and that could have given room According to him, Nigerians the future. and a former governor of be okay. they destroyed.” for more instability in the are too intelligent, resourceful He argued that with , Asiwaju Bola “I have started visualising a Reiterating his belief in the country.” and hardworking not to be time, people with the finest Tinubu, because they would good Nigerian leader. That is, a future of Nigeria and urging Prodded further on whether able to pull the country back qualities of leadership, that be in their 70s by the next person, who travels across the Nigerians to remain patriotic, the sentiment was among the from the brinks, but regretted had popular appeal, would election. country, has a friend virtually Babangida, who claimed to military or cut across civilian that poor leadership had been emerge no matter what part Although IBB, as Babangida everywhere he travels to and feeling good as he was about population, he said, “Both. The the bane which had divested of the country such would is fondly called, did not in knows at least one person that to turn 80 years, with gratitude military, they can do it because the nation of a rallying point. come from which would be any way mention their names he can communicate with. to God for sparing his life, they have the weapons to do it While proffering solution to immaterial once things start as ineligible for the nation’s “That is a person, who advised Nigerians to go for but the other society members the myriad problems of the working fine. number one seat, he however is very verse in economics the person that has what it will agitate.” country, he pulled his weight To him, the economy was suggested that individuals in and is also a good politician, takes to transform the country On insecurity, he admitted behind resource control but being overregulated as he their 60s should be the focus who should be able to talk to when the time comes. that the military needed to warned that some people called for freeing it, while of Nigerians as potential Nigerians and so on. I have He also stated that the need be better equipped, trained who either misunderstood arguing that production and presidential candidates in 2023. seen one, or two or three of to avoid a bloody coup, which and offered improved the working principles of the export would be the twin By the next general election such persons already in his would have set the country leadership, adding that proposition would call for the redeeming principles for the in 2023, Atiku, who is 75 this sixties.” back several decades, informed “they are not overwhelmed head of whoever propounds sliding Naira, pointing out that year, would be 77, while But when asked if the person the annulment of the 1993 but overstretched” because such. Nigerians had the capacity to Tinubu, who marked an official could emerge victorious in the Presidential election presumed of the expansive areas of Apparently not backing achieve it. 68th birthday in March, would 2023 presidential election, the to have been won by late coverage arising from spread zoning and power shift, he He denied being anti-media, have turned 70 years. Minna-born former military Moshood Kashimowu Abiola. in insecurity. was insistent that unless claiming that he libralised it, Specifically on theleader said, “I believe so, if Babangida said: “You want Babangida regretted that the the country wanted to leading to the birth of many importance of leadership in we can get him.” me to be honest with you? If stultified system of things in introduce its own whims private media, both print and nation-building and where he Responding to a question on it materialised, there would the country was due to what and caprices in the practice electronic. He further dismissed thought the likes of Atiku and whether or not he still believed have been a coup which would he described as tyranny of of democracy, there was need as silly, trying to muscle the Tinubu no longer fit the bill, in the future of Nigeria, IBB, have been violent, that’s all I the elites who had made no for politicians to allow the press as it would be an exercise IBB said: “If you get a good who turns 80 on August 17, can confirm. It didn’t happen efforts to harness the positive principles of democracy, as in futility.

82 YAURI STUDENTS SPEND DAY 52 WITH BANDITS IN FOREST a meeting, agreed to embark don't even know what has in other places did if that our children’s abduction. It’s state and federal governments the government in its efforts on prayers. happened to our children. will make the bandits release taken longer than expected; are working together to to get the students safely back Few days ago, they also Government is not telling our children." we don't even know what secure the students. I think home." held a prayer session at us anything. We had made Another parent adds: "I might have happened to it will not be right, and Governor Abubakar Atiku Yauri for the release of their several attempts to engage think it’s time government them. We are worried.” for security purposes for Bagudu met with parents at children. government over our children engages the bandits. We are A top Niger State government, to disclose its the premises of the school At the prayer session, that are still in the hands of worried about our children Government official, who strategy on its engagement a day after they were taken they expressed fear and bandits but we were turned staying with terrorists for this spoke to our correspondent with the bandits. by the bandits, assuring disappointment with the down. We wanted to know long. The bandits have not under condition of anonymity “Sure the government is them that the state and state’s government, alleging what they are doing to rescue made any demands from us, in Birnin Kebbi, said the working hard to rescue the federal governments were that they were not being told them. Their continued stay we wouldn't know if they federal government “is students from their abductors collaborating to rescue the anything positive about their with the bandits is not are making any demands working with the state and I can assure them that students. children still with the bandits. good at all. We as parents on government. But we government to rescue the soon their children will be The distraught parents are One of the parents told are willing to do what the don't think it is right for students from the bandits. “ reunited with them. They still waiting for Bagudu to THISDAY recently: "We parents of abducted students government to be silent on The official adds: “Both the should just keep supporting fully actualise his promise. 6 THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER AUGUST 7, 2021

News Editor Charles Ajunwa NEWS 08064268968 (sms only) Email [email protected] Remanded Aminu Yar’Adua Not Late Ex-President’s Son A Contrary to reports that family and the clarification was other two were injured in the Hajara Aliyu (27) sustained to the defendant as prayed for of Public Prosecutions for 36-year-old Aminu Yar’Adua not in any way denying his accident, with the victims all injuries,” the report stated. by the prosecutor, he denied legal advice. remanded for allegedly killing membership of the Yar’Adua hailing from Sabon Pegi, Yola The prosecuting officer committing the offence, The Magistrate, Jummai four persons in an auto crash family, but a sincere effort to South Local Government Area had told the court that the describing the allegation Ibrahim, therefore, granted in Yola, last set the facts right. of the state. relatives of the late Aisha as untrue. the prosecution’s request Thursday, was the son of the The News Agency of Ni- “Those that died in the ac- Umar, Suleiman Abubakar At that point, the pros- and adjourned the matter late President Umaru Yar’Adua, geria (NAN), had reported cident were identified as Aisha and Jummai Abubakar had ecutor pleaded with the to August 19, 2021, for THISDAY checks have revealed that Yar’Adua, a student of Umar (30), Aisha Mamadu demanded the sum of N15 court to adjourn the mat- further mention, and that the accused is actually the the American University of (32), Suleiman Abubakar (2) million from the defendant ter, to enable him duplicate ordered that Aminu son be son of the elder Yar’Adua, Late Nigeria, Yola, was charged and Jummai Abubakar (30); as compensation. the case file and forward remanded in prison custody Gen. Shehu Musa Yar’Adua. to court for allegedly causing while Rejoice Annu (28) and But, when the FIR was read same to the Department until then. The report, which had gone death by dangerous driving viral on different social media on June 23, 2021. platforms and news portals had The Police First Information identified Aminu as the late Report (FIR) tendered in court former president’s son, after by the prosecutor, Inspector a Magistrate Court in Yola Zakka Musa, stated that the ordered his remand. accused had, while driving But a family source, who along Yola bye-pass in June, pleaded anonymity, stated that ran over six people as a result Aminu, who works with former of overspeeding. Vice President Atiku Abubakar, The court heard that four of remained a member of the the victims were killed and the Gambian President Commends Nigeria’s Drug War Campaign

Michael Olugbode in Abuja According to him, “drug cartels work as a network and President Adama Barrow are linked; as such, institutions of Gambia has commended fighting them must also partner Nigeria’s commitment to the war and work together. The whole of against illicit drug trafficking and Gambia has an important guest in abuse, even as he called for more Gen. Marwa who we have heard collaboration among anti-drug so much about his leadership traits.” A WORTHY PARTNERSHIP... law enforcement agencies in He acknowledged that: “Nigeria L-R: Former governor of , Mr. Peter Obi after the meeting with President of Wilson Centre, Mane Hartman in the USAon Wednesday Africa and the world at large. has been helpful and supportive He gave the commendation at of the Gambia in various forms the State House in Banjul when he and we are grateful. The signing received Chairman/Chief Execu- of this MoU between NDLEA and IG Assigns New Commissioners to Enugu, Kaduna, FCT, 10 States tive of the National Drug Law DLEAG is a clear indication that Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Nigeria is more than willing to Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja stabilising the internal security Others are Enugu, CP Similarly, CP Bankole Lanre Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (rtd) partner with us. order and scaling up the fight Abubakar Lawal; Cross River, Sikiru is deployed as the CP who was in the country to sign “His coming to Gambia is an The Inspector General of Po- against crimes and criminality CP Alhassan Aminu; Bayelsa, INTERPOL, FCID Lagos and CP a Memorandum of Understanding indication of Marwa’s personal lice, Mr. Usman Baba, yesterday in the country. CP Echeng Eworo Echeng and Augustine Arop who is posted as (MoU) bothering on cooperation commitment to the war against ordered the posting of new The affected state commands Kebbi, CP Musa Baba. the Deputy Commandant, Police in combating illicit production, drugs and I believe the agreement Commissioners of Police to take and senior officers are Niger, CP Other Senior officersStaff College Jos. manufacture, and trafficking will benefit both countries over command leadership in Monday Bala Kuryas; Kwara, deployed are CP Ndatsu The statement said the IG in narcotic drugs, psychotropic because drug use is a national 13 states including the Federal CP Emienbo Tuesday Assayamo; Aliyu Mohammed, a former while charging the officers to substances and their precursors threat and a big security issue, Capital Territory. Nasarawa, CP Soyemi Musbau Commissioner of Police, Enugu justify the confidence reposed with the Drug Law Enforcement and without security no nation A statement issued by Adesina; Taraba, CP Abimbola State, who is now the CP Anti- in them assured the citizenry of Agency of the Gambia, DLEAG. can progress.” Force Public Relations, Mr. Shokoya; Benue, CP Akingbola Fraud Unit FCID, Abuja; CP sustained efforts by the force to Speaking during the courtesy In his remarks, Marwa ex- Frank Mba, a Commissioner Olatunji; FCT, CP Babaji Sunday; Sikiru Akande, a former CP in stabilise security in the country. visit on Thursday, President Barrow pressed happiness that Gambia of Police, said the posting of Kogi, CP Arungwa Nwazue , who is now He enjoined citizens in the applauded the decision by the was a willing partner in the the senior officers was part of Udo; Kaduna, CP Abdullahi redeployed to the Department affected states to cooperate with NDLEA to sign the agreement fight against drug cartels in the efforts aimed at repositioning the Mudashiru and Jigawa, CP of ICT as the CP ICT, Force their new commissioners of with DLEAG, saying such West African sub-region. He said: force for greater efficiency and Aliyu Sale Tafida. Headquarters, Abuja. police for efficient service delivery. will strengthen and integrate “We are facing enemies of the ECOWAS member states worst grade and so we need all especially in the area of war the support and partnerships AdCademy Masterclass: AAAN Ugwuanyi Swears-in Late Mathias against drug trafficking and at the national, regional and abuse. international levels.” Announces Resource Persons Ekweremadu’s Wife, Others The Association of Advertising of Communication of the Oba of ’s Fifth Wife Delivers Agencies of Nigeria (AAAN) has Pan-Atlantic University; John Governor, Mr. Professor of Political Science and announced the line-up of local Ugbe, Chief Executive Officer, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, yesterday, renowned Consultant, Prof. Osy Quadruplets and foreign experts billed for its MultiChoice Nigeria; and Leke swore-in Mrs. Stella Akpa Okanya, as Chairman. second Academy Masterclass. Alder of Alder Consulting, Ekweremadu, wife of the late Other members of the state Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City The Masterclass, which holds Austin Ufomba, Chief Executive Commissioner for Transport and LG Service Commission sworn-in tribute to God Almighty and virtually from 26-29 August, is in Officer, Tytron Group; and Mrs. former member, who represented by Governor Ugwuanyi were the ancestors for the blessing. partnership with the prestigious Chioma Afe, Group Head, Retail Aninri Constituency in the State Hon. Rodrick Ugwu, Nnaji Peter The Benin monarch, His The presiding Priest of the Henley Business School. Marketing and Analytics, Access House of Assembly, Mathias Nnaji, Mrs. Florence Ifeyinwa Royal Majesty, Oba Ewuare II oldest West African Church, The line-up of experts was Bank Plc. Ekweremadu Jnr., as Commis- Igboji and Hon. Eugene Odo. has welcomed the delivery of better known as Holy Aruosa announced via a statement jointly The Masterclass, which has as sioner in the Enugu State Civil Swearing-in the Commis- quadruplets from his fifth wife, Church, Ohen-Osa Igbinoghodua signed by Jenkins Alumona, theme “The Winning Strategy”, Service Commission. sioners in the State Civil Service Princess (Oloi) Esosa into the Edebiri, also offered prayer to AAAN Vice President/Chairman is a continuation of the AAAN’s Ugwuanyi also swore-in retired Commission, Ugwuanyi charged Benin Royal family. God for wisdom and guidance of the AdCademy Committee; efforts at expanding the industry state Permanent Secretary, Mr. them to be honest, transparent, ac- The Oba had in May 2020, of the newborn. and Olasunkanmi Atolagbe, acting talent pool. The programme is Robinson Ogbonna Odo, mni, countable, fair, just and committed welcomed his first infant Prince The brief ceremony coincided AdCademy Director. open to mid-level management as Chairman of the State Civil in the exercise of their mandate after he ascended the throne of with the visit of National execu- Those expected at the three-day staff in brand and client service, Service Commission. of appointing persons into the his forebears as the 40th Oba of tives of Immaculate Conception training programme include Pro- copywriters, artists, account/ Other Commissioners inaugu- State Civil Service and carrying Benin from her Royal Highness, College, ICC, Benin City which fessor Adeyinka Adewale and Mr. strategic planners, media manag- rated by the governor at the EXCO out disciplinary control. Princess (Oloi) Iyayota Ewuare II. is the Alma-mater of Oba Barry Van Zyl of Henley Business ers and professionals involved in Chamber, Lion Building, Govern- He told the new Commissioners The traditional ruler made Ewuare II. School, Mr. Bayo Adekambi, a related functions in the private ment House, Enugu, alongside Mr. that their enviable track records, the announcement at 4:57p.m. The group which was led reputed data expert: and Barrister and public sectors. Odo and Mrs. Ekweremadu, were competencies and training recom- at his palace yesterday in Benin by Mr. John Osa- Omoregie Ayuli Jemide, Chairman, Nigerian Speaking on the programme, Dr. Mrs. Eucharia Offor (Member mended them for the job, adding: City, amidst jubilation by guests thanked the Benin monarch Bar Association (NBA) Business Steve Babaeko, AAAN President, 1), Mr. Nathaniel Chidiebere “You are expected to midwife a and members of the Benin royal for his support towards the Law Section. explained that it is aimed at Anike (Member 2) and Mrs. skilled, competent and disciplined family development of the school and Also billed to be at the providing participants with Joy Chinenye Odike (Member 3). workforce that will ensure the Disclosing the sexes of the sued for more support. programme as facilitators are deep strategic thinking skills Ugwuanyi equally swore-in attainment of service delivery babies who are yet to be named, Princess (Oloi) Aisosa Ewuare marketing and communications and practical advertising craft Commissioners in the reconsti- goals of our administration comprising three infant Princes II is the youngest among the big names such as Professor that will help them become tuted Enugu State Local Govern- through merit, skill and character and a Princess, the monarch paid wives of the traditional ruler. Emevwo Biakolo of the School first-class professionals. ment Service Commission, with driven recruitment.” SATURDAY AUGUST 7, 2021 • THISDAY 7 8 THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER AUGUST 7, 2021 NEWS Edo Police Rescue Seven Trafficked Minors

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City He said, “Some of the victims were minors. On interrogation, Operatives of the we found out they were being Police Command have rescued trafficked to Cote d’ Ivoire six girls and a male who were by one Godfrey. It is a case allegedly being trafficked to of trafficking. They would Cote d’ Ivoire and Libya. be handed over to National The victims are, Innocent Agency for the Prohibition of Godfrey (male) 20, Success Traffick in Person (NAPTIP) Okogbowa (17),Gift Osabuohien for rehabilitation.” (18), Endurance Edigho (18), In an interview, one of Gift Edigho (17), Oghayero (19) trafficked victims, Innocent and Happiness Oliver (16) all Godfrey, said the journey female. was arranged by her sister The girls who disguised for someone in Libya. themselves as Muslims by “I am not the one conveying FOR EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION. . . wearing hijab were intercepted them. I am going to Libya L-R: Senator Emmanuel Essien, National Chairman PANDEF; Rt. Hon Owoidighe Ekpoattai, SA to the Governor on Cottage Industries at Isihor Police Check-point, while they are going to Clutters (representing the Governor) and Col. Milland Dixon Dikio (rtd) Interim Administrator, Presidential Amnesty Programme PAP)( at the closing Benin City on the Benin-Lagos Cote d’ Ivoire. We were ceremony of the three-day training workshop for members of the Strategic Communications Committee in Uyo... recently. Road. arrested at the check point The victims who are from in Isihor. I am not the one Delta, Edo and Enugu states trafficking the girls. I also but residents of Edo State were paid N200,000 for this trip but Afenifere Slams IBB Over Claims on State of Nation allegedly recruited by Godfrey’s the person that is trafficking James Sowole in Akure annulment of the June 12 a violent coup, which, by on security, economy and anti sister for the journey. the girls is in Libya and he presidential election, was reasonable inference, he was corruption. Nigeria has been Addressing journalists yes- paid money to sponsor the The Pan Yoruba Socio- unacceptable to Nigerians. aware of. rendered a failed state in its terday, the state Commissioner girls.” Political Group, Afenifere, He said, “Babangida has “He lost the opportunity of obvious inability to secure of Police, Philip Aliyu Ogbadu, One of the girls, Endurance yesterday slammed the former not said a new thing worthy being the hero of democracy life and property. said the police were able to Edigho, said they were recruited Nigeria’s Military President of any reaction in respect of and father of a new Nigeria, “The Babangida admin- intercept the victims following by Godfrey’s sister at a birthday , for his his treasonable acts of the an eternal regret that no istration cannot be accused an intelligence report. party of one of their friends. interview on a national televi- annulment of the adjudged whitewashing on television of sectional and sectarian sion, Arise TV on the state of freest and fairest election in can redeem. disposition which is the the nation. the country’s political history. “However, it is no gain hallmark of the Buhari Lagos Police Command Gets New PPRO The Secretary General of “Nigerians are not saying the fact that the Government. Rather than Afenifere, Chief Sola Ebiseni, interested in any excuse present administration has indulging in comparing Sunday Ehigiator of Police in in a statement made available being now given by IBB. made saints of all previous any government with the Command and Personal to journalists, described the It is even most preposterous administrations in every aspects present, those who still have The Inspector-General of Assistant to the Deputy interview as “A sour taste in that IBB will only now be of governance. faith in the unity of Nigeria Police, Usman Alkali Baba, Inspector-General of Police, the mouth.” insulting the intelligence of “The Buhari government are only fervently praying and has approved the posting Research and Planning, Force Specifically, Ebiseni said Nigerians that he annulled has failed, even in the areas counting days for this evil cup of Lagos State Police Public Headquarters Abuja, DIG Babangida’s excuse for the their mandate to forestall of his promises to Nigerians to pass over.” Relations Officer (PPRO), Leye Oyebade, mni (rtd) CSP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, in 2021. to the Force Public Relations “He is an associate Department, Office of the member of the Nigerian Press Freedom Shouldn’t be Restrained, Fayemi Warns Inspector-General of Police, Institute of Public Relations Force Headquarters, Garki (NIPR) and member of the Victor Ogunje in Ado Ekiti by the Catholic Bishop of played prominent roles, even at Fayemi said governing Ekiti Abuja while CSP Adekunle International Association of Ekiti Diocese, Most Rev. Felix the risk of their lives and jobs. had been so challenging since Ajisebutu has been posted to Chiefs of Police. The Governor of , Ajakaye, for members of the “The press stands for the 2018 due to paucity of funds, take over as the new PPRO of “With this development, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, has restated Nigeria Union of Journalists people. It is the voice of the saying he would continue Lagos State Police Command Ajisebutu has taken up the that the freedom of the press (NUJ), Ekiti Council. voiceless. Though, you may to look for humble ways to with immediate effect. responsibilities of the Police shouldn’t be repressed in the Fayemi contended that have some things that appeared seek understanding of Ekiti This was contained in a Public Relations Officer country despite the perceived journalists had etched their so terrifying now that we have people about his policies and statement yesterday, signed by of the Lagos State Police inadequacies on the part of names indelibly in the history social media, because of lack of delivery while also maintaining the outgoing spokesperson of Command with immediate some practitioners. of the country, having at vari- control, but you still have to go prudence in the management the state, Olumuyiwa Adejobi. effect and could be reached Fayemi insisted that no mat- ous times fought for Nigeria’s to the mainstream journalism of the state’s scarce resources. Ajisebutu, before his new on cell phone number ter the excesses being exhibited independence and cleared the to confirm, because they have Based on the request of the role, was the Second-in- 08036536581.” by the press, that under no way for Nigeria to navigate to control and gatekeepers, who NUJ Chairman in Ekiti, Comrade Command, Area E Festac CSP Adejobi therefore guise should its freedom be constitutional democracy from can be held accountable. Rotimi Ojomoyela, demanding Area Command of the state. expressed gratitude to abridged or tinkered with. the military junta. “Even if there are excesses, a befitting Press Centre from the He was one time the PPRO, the IGP, the Commissioner The Chairman, Nigeria’s “In the fight for our Indepen- the freedom of the press should government, Fayemi promised Police Command of Police, Lagos State, CP Governors’ Forum, spoke in dence and the sustained agitations not be restrained. We should to set machinery in motion to from 2015 to 2019 and PPRO Hakeem Odumosu, the Ado Ekiti, on Thursday eve- against military for the journey to look for other ways to correct ensure that the project comes Zone 11, Osogbo from 2019 entire workforce of the ning, during a dinner organised Nigeria democracy, journalists these perceived inadequacies.” to fruition. to 2020. Lagos State Police Com- According to the state- mand, the Government FG Urges States to Domesticate Fulfil Your Empowerment Promise, Ijaw ment, Ajisebutu “has worked and good people of Lagos in various capacities in State, especially gentlemen of Relevant Economic Policies Youth Author Pleads With Osinbajo the force such as Deputy the press for their unflinching in Warri PPRO, Ogun State, Personal supports during his tenure as Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja Ahmed spoke at a meeting Sylvester Idowu with instructions contained, but Assistant to Commissioners the PPRO, Lagos State. of the 20th National Council nothing came out of his efforts. The Minister of Finance, on Development Planning A 32-year-old Ijaw youth Bebenimibo, who has written Budget and National Plan- (NCDP) in Maiduguri, writer and author, Prince She- and published over three books Disabled Persons, Other Aggrieved Investors ning, Mrs. Zainab Ahmed, has , organised by her drack Bebenimibo, has appealed with some titled: Disappointment advised sub-national govern- ministry in collaboration with to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo To Appointment, Self Discovery Barricade Baraza Cooperative Society ments to continue to support, the Borno State Government. to fulfill his promise to empower In Nation Building and Battles replicate and domesticate The NCDP is a meeting of him with the publications of his Of Life, said further: “On the Olusegun Samuel in to the office carted away germane economic policies states’ commissioners for bud- unpublished books. 16th of January 2017, I met with Yenagoa office equipment from the of the federal government get and economic planning He said that the Vice President, the Vice President during the his office. in their respective states to organised annually to serve as during his visit to Gbaramatu Peace Keeping and Fact Finding Dozens of Persons Living This is as the veil of ensure developmental consoli- a veritable platform for senior Kingdom in Warri South West visit to the Niger Delta Region, With Disabilities (PLWDs) expectations covering dation, impactful deliverables officials of the federal and Local Government Area of Delta particularly at Kurutie Community, and other Bayelsans number- over 40,000 Bayelsans and huge successes. state ministries, representatives State in 2017, to douse brewing the temporary site of the Nigerian ing in hundreds yesterday who invested in Baraza She called for a collective of the organised private sector, tension in the Niger Delta region, Maritime University in Gbaramatu stormed the headquarters of Multipurpose Cooperative spirit and aspiration in build- development partners and promised to assist him with the Kingdom, in Warri South West Baraza Multipurpose Coopera- Society may have finally been ing a nation of everyone’s civil society organisations. publications of his unpublished Local Government Area of Delta tive Society at No 1, Otiotio pulled off their eyes. dreams, especially for the It is designed for such scripts. State. Road in Yenagoa, Bayelsa Many of them who are now upcoming generation in stakeholders to engage in Narrating his ordeal to “I approached the Vice President State, demanding for the refund faced with the bitter reality of particular, and the world technical discussions on THISDAY in Warri yesterday, and expressed my passion and of the monies invested in the a failed business venture with at large, by ensuring trans- contemporary economic policy Bebenimibo said five years after the desires to him. And how I needed cooperative society. glaring indications that their economic development of issues in order to come up promise, he was yet to hear from the support or empowerment The PWLDs who came in monies may have gone down all sectors of the economy with effective and functional the Vice President Office while of the Vice President in the crutches and wheelchairs the drains, expressed their that will support job/wealth approaches towards enhanc- his scripts remain unpublished. actualisation of my dreams of barricaded the Mbiama- anger at the Chief Executive creation and unimpaired ing economic management The author said, though he remodelling and reorienting the Yenagoa Road for several Officer (CEO) of Baraza, Pastor operational security across processes at both federal and received a letter from the Presi- minds of Nigerians, particularly hours while the able bodied Miebi Bribena, an ordained board. sub-national levels. dency in 2018, he followed up the youths. ones who gained entrance Pastor of Christ Embassy. SATURDAY AUGUST 7, 2021 • THISDAY 9 10 THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER AUGUST 7, 2021 NEWS HURIWA Asks IG to Lift Siege on Enugu Community over Land A rights and advocacy group, about. Human Rights Writers Associa- “We have however now become tion of Nigeria has charged the aware that this unfortunate vendetta Inspector General of Police, Usman was orchestrated against the com- Alkali Baba, to stop the arbitrary munity by a known land grabber, deployment of its SWAT officers (name withheld) in order to assist against hapless natives of Ndiaga the said land grabber to forcefully Awkunannaw, Enugu State in a take over our communal/ancestral bid to seize their lands from them. land. HURIWA in a petition pointed “We now understand that out that the locals had cried out to the situation was borne out of a them over the repressive activities misunderstanding arising from the of the said SWAT officers by the illegal use of some mobile police Force CID which allegedly laid siege officers by the referenced land on the community, violating their grabber. rights to freedom of movement and “We are equally aware that peaceful existence. the law permits us to defend A statement from the Executive our property, just like any other Director of HURIWA, Comrade owner of a property, against any Emmanuel Onwubiko, citing a forceful or unlawful takeover of Save Our Soul appeal from the same, and we cannot therefore MARITAL BLISS… community alleged that the use be annihilated, completely wiped of the police was to scare them oͿ or jailed because we resisted L-R: The groom, Lukman Adewale Faniyi; parents of the bride, Professor Ramat Olohuntoyin Na’Allah; her husband/Vice-Chancellor, University of from their land in a grab style. abusive use of a few compromised Abuja, Professor Abdul-Rasheed Na’Allah; the bride, Saarah Asabi Na’Allah and her sister, Haleemah Na’Allah, during the wedding ceremony of “We the people of Ndiaga Ame- mobile police o΀cers on illegal Lukman and Saarah in , ... recently. chi Awkunanaw have decided to duty, who were hired and gave cry out for help against the incessant themselves out as hirelings and harassment of the officers of SWAT, whose presence on the land is Force CID, Abuja who have laid clearly to support the greedy, Kaduna Postpones School Resumption siege on our community, and have acquisitive tendencies of a land been on a prowl, hounding every grabber who has selfishly instigated member of the community over an and unleashed them (SWAT, FCID, as Security Agencies Battle Bandits allegation which many members Nigeria Police Force, Abuja) against of the community know nothing the community. John Shiklam in Kaduna fairs, Samuel Aruwan and his security operations against to postpone the resumption of counterpart in the Ministry of armed bandits across the state. schools, previously scheduled for The Government Education, Dr. Shehu Muham- “The government praised 9th August 2021, and to pause has announced the postponement mad, said the state government the doggedness and courage the continuation of infrastructure Abia PDP to Retake Constituencies of schools in the state scheduled has accepted the security advisory of o΀cers and troops carrying projects and construction in high- for Monday August 9 follow- and directed total compliance by out air and ground operations risk areas, while awaiting further by Fielding Popular Candidates ing advice on ongoing security all schools and agencies involved around the Kaduna/Niger/ assessments by the security Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in operations. in delivering infrastructure Katsina/Plateau and Zamfara agencies,µ the statement said. Umuahia Asiforo Okere, stated that the The government also projects in high-risk areas. boundaries. KDSG has also The statement said further federal lawmaker has justified suspended the execution of Kaduna State is facing serious requested the military and police that, “The Kaduna State the party’s confidence in giving ongoing projects in high risk security challenges occasioned high commands to expand the Government has accepted the Stakeholders of the Abia him the ticket. areas pending further security by killings, abductions and operations to newly identiÀed security advisory, and hereby State chapter of the Peoples He assured that the victory advice. destruction of communities. hideouts. directs total compliance by all Democratic Party (PDP) have of the party in Aba Federal In a statement yesterday, jointly The statement commended “As the security operations schools, and agencies involved in vowed to sustain the culture of Constituency has set the ball signed by the Commissioner for the military and police high proceed, the Kaduna State delivering infrastructure projects fielding popular candidates during rolling for the “season of recoveryµ Internal Security and Home Af- commands for the ongoing Government has been advised in high-risk areas. election, saying that the policy of other constituencies held by paid off during the Aba North/ the opposition, which would Aba South Federal Constituency be accomplished in subsequent by election. elections. Wema Bank Partners SheCan It’s a Sin to Deny Baby Breast The ruling party in Abia had The PDP chairman harped reclaimed the Aba Federal Con- on the need for Abia people to to Support Women Milk, Say UNICEF, Experts stituency following its choice of enroll in the ongoing nationwide Hon. Chimaobi Ebisike as its flag voter registration exercise of the In furtherance of its commit- be both Virtual and on-site, will Omon-Julius Onabu in Asaba order to improve implementation bearer, who comfortably won the Independent National Election ment to women’s empowerment drive a change in the culture and of Breastfeeding Policies Action election. With the victory PDP was Commission (INEC) to ensure and the transformative impact of perception of women in today’s Failure or refusal to give your Plan vis-a-vis commitments by able to reclaim the Aba Federal active participation in the electoral empowered women in society, world. baby breast milk has been described stakeholders including media Constituency, which was hitherto process. Wema Bank Plc is partnering In a statement issued by the as amounting not only to denying practitioners. held by the All Progressives Grand Hon. Ebisike was lauded by with SheCan Nigeria to organise bank, one goal of the conference the child of its fundamental human Giving an overview of the Alliance (APGA). all the party stakeholders who a workshop with a goal to help is to reinforce the fundamental rights but also a sin against God, breastfeeding initiative in Nigeria, in Speaking at a thank you meet- spoke at the event, saying that women realise their potentials and change that women can do more experts on nutrition and breastfeed- terms of prospects and challenges, ing organised by Hon. Ebisike, he has earned their confidence develop capabilities to achieve even in the face of the global ing have warned. Mrs. Ngozi Onuorah, Nutrition who is barely three months old with his quality representation success in society. SheCan Nigeria economic meltdown, and as This view was expressed by Specialist, UNICEF Rivers Field in the House of Representatives, so far in the Green Chamber of is a movement for today’s woman the world recovers from the experts at the one day multi-zonal Office, stressed that both the mother the state chairman of PDP, Hon. the National Assembly. to realise her potential and develop COVID-19 pandemic. media dialogue with journalists and the government would be her capabilities to achieve suc- According to Funmilayo Falola, on 2021 World Breastfeeding guilty of a serious offence by cess through collaboration and Head, Marketing Communications Week organised by UNICEF in standing in the way of the newborn FG Inaugurates Justice for empowerment and to become and Investor Relations, “this year, collaboration with the Broadcasting to be breastfed exclusively for active players and contributors the conference will address the Corporation of , held in six months, beginning from the Children Coordination Forum in our world today. changing needs and growing Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. Àrst hour of birth, and up to two The partnership between demands of today’s world. The media dialogue, whose years or more. Alex Enumah in Abuja Rights Commission, Buni Yadi Wema Bank Plc and SheCan “This special edition will focus theme was, ‘Protect Breastfeeding, “It is a sin for a mother to deny Foundation, federal Ministry of Nigeria in previous times has on addressing relatable issues that A Shared Shared Responsibility’, a child breast milk,µ Onuorah The federal government has Water Resources, Nigerian Bar produced pieces of training and deal with career growth/swap drew participants from Abia, stressed, adding, “And, it is inaugurated the Justice for Children Association, University of Abuja workshops where women have and development, job transition, Delta, Rivers and Akwa Ibom a crime for the government Coordination Forum, reiterating its and United Nations Office on gotten support and mentorship mid-life crisis, how to do More states, and dwelt primarily on to invest in and encourage commitment towards the provision Drugs and Crimes. in various areas from tech, crafts, in business, preparation for the issues relating to prospects and breastfeeding advocacy and of access to justice for vulnerable Speaking at the event, the education, etc. next big role, venturing into progress of breastfeeding initiative policy implementation initiatives; children in the country. AGF said, “This administration This year’s edition of the male-dominated sectors/Àelds,µ in Nigeria as well as how the because breastfeeding initiative Attorney General of the Federa- will continue to do its best in SheCan conference, which will she said. media can support advocacy in is a shared responsibility.µ tion and Minister of Justice, Mr. the protection of the rights of Abubakar Malami, SAN, said to children and vulnerable persons. this end, the federal government Recently, at a function together I Will Use Culture to Unite Nigeria, Says Runsewe amongst others would establish with the Executive Secretary of the special court to try cases of rape National Human Rights Commis- The Director General of Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi received Ekiti State. EKiti State Cultural Troupe for and gender related offences. sion, (NHRC), Mr. Tony Ojukwu, I the National Council for Arts the award of MaMa NAFEST Runsewe added that their wonderful performances Malami spoke at the launch of disclosed that my office is currently and Culture (NCAC), Otunba 2021. time has come for Nigeria and promised to give them the EU-UNICEF Access to Justice engaging with respective Heads Olusegun Runsewe, has said Runsewe, who is also the stakeholders to change the more exposure to the outside Programme targeted at children of Courts to establish Specialised that his ultimate goal was to President of the World Crafts narratives of culture in Nigeria. world. He urged the Culture on the move and other vulnerable Courts for the speedy and seam- use culture to unite Nigeria Council, African Region, According to him, it is time Commissioners and stakehold- children. less trial of Rape/Gender-Based and bring about sustainable stated this at the opening of for all hands to be on deck ers to tap into the SWOT The programme organised by Violence Offences in the country.µ peace and national develop- a 3-day meeting of the National to take our good hands, good analysis and emphasise the the Federal Ministry of Justice The move according to the ment. Technical Stakeholders of the ideas and good culture to other good aspect of our country in collaboration with Nigeria minister will fast track such cases This is as the wife of the National Festival of Arts and parts of the world. for the time has come for the Police Force and UNICEF, is and result in justice for child victims state governor of Ekiti, Erelu Culture held in Ado Ekiti, in He also commended the nation to blow its trumpet. sponsored by the National Human of sexual violence. SATURDAY AUGUST 7, 2021 • THISDAY 11 12 AUGUST 7, 2021 • THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER COMMENTARY HARUNA AND WAR AGAINST DRUG ABUSE The enlistment of the retired general in the battle against drug abuse is heart-warming, writes Chuks Akamadu

t had been with a remarkable sense of relief that I read a News College Isolo, Atlantic Hall College Maryland, Beautiful Gate and Agency of Nigeria (NAN) report on August 1, 2021 that quoted Effortswill Colleges Ejigbo and Seventh Day Adventist Secondary the workaholic Chairman/Chief Executive of National Drug Law School Ede, in , to mention just a few. Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig-Gen It had been a most rewarding exercise. For the most part, we dipped I(rtd) as saying that the agency arrested 5000 offenders, prosecuted 3000 our hands into our pocket-money and funds meant for handouts to and counseled 2,303 victims of drug abuse within five months – January offset the cost of logistics. We were united in our shared belief that to to May. build a great Nigeria, we needed to jealously guard the moral health It was equally refreshing to note that under Gen Marwa’s phenom- as well as physical and mental wellbeing of our youths – to whom the enal watch, NDLEA has, to its credit, seized more than two million future of Nigeria belongs. kilogrammes of assorted drugs as well as recovered drugs and cash It is therefore an emotional moment for me that on the eve of worth well over N90 billion! Truly where there is a will, there always CERANY’s 20th anniversary, the flame of the anti-drug abuse fire the will be a way. aforementioned great Nigerians ignited almost two decades ago has What this simply means is that whilst it’s not entirely out of place forced a retired general to voluntarily quit the “Reserve List” and join for Nigerians to be alarmed by the growing prevalence of drug abuse the war against drug abuse as an octogenarian, with a pronounced and illicit trafficking in and around Nigeria, NDLEA’s commendable resolve to lead from the frontlines. leadership in ridding the nation of narcotic and potentially harmful It is also interesting to note that this history is being made at a time psychotic substances presents prospects of early victory – especially if the NDLEA, our dependable partners-in-progress, has unleashed, for the current momentum is sustained. good measure, legitimate terror on all players, active and passive, in It is against this background that the Centre for Ethical Rebirth the drug abuse and illicit trafficking “value chain”. Among Nigerian Youths (CERANY), a voluntary organization We at CERANY are fascinated by the interest shown and support conceived 19 years ago to be a catalyst for moral reawakening of extended to us in our unrelenting campaign against drug abuse by Nigerian youths is proud to be associated with NDLEA in its renewed elder statesman, quintessential patriot, soldiers’ soldier, fine officer, commitment to rescuing the nation from the fetters of drug abuse. gentleman and legal luminary, Maj-Gen IBM Haruna (rtd) OFR; and In retrospect the CERANY initiative was, after all, not a wasteful it is for this reason, his sterling professional accomplishments and the venture by very distinguished Nigerians who had stepped forward in beautiful portrait of decency we see him as, that the Board of Trustees 2001 to co-midwife what has become a special purpose vehicle (SPV) (BoT) and National Executive Committee (NEC) of CERANY have today, for the campaign against drug abuse in Nigeria. formally enlisted him as combatant in the anti-drug abuse army, by Perhaps I should at this point note that by far the single greatest bestowing on him the honour of serving as CERANY’s pioneer Grand support base we had at inception was late Chief Debo Akande (SAN) Patron at the auspicious occasion of his 81st birthday celebration on who substantially funded our activities and also joined us in the field July 24. work. Chief Akande was later joined by Mr. George Eke – a foremost To cap it all, with the official launch of War Against Drug Abuse patron and veritable source of inspiration, His Eminence, Anthony (WADA) by President Muhammadu Buhari on June 26th, 2021 and Cardinal Okogie, Prof. Oye Ibidapo-Obe, Vice Chancellor, University of in line with our avowed commitment to complementing the com- Lagos, nationalist and doyen of public relations practice in Africa, Chief mendable efforts of NDLEA and government in the fight against drug Bob Ogbuagu (OON), Emeritus Professor Ayo Edwards, Mr. Cyprian abuse, CERANY shall be commemorating its 20th anniversary with C. Udenwa, Prof. C.S Momoh and Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa, President, an aggressive nationwide campaign against drug abuse to be named Neimeth Pharmaceutical PLC (as he then was). and known as “Gen. IBM Haruna Anti-Drug Abuse Nationwide By the time we started our “Catch-Them-Young” campaign against Campaign”. drug abuse, more notable Nigerians who we actually considered to This honour, to our minds, is well-deserved and should serve as a be, in their individual rights, beacons of morality like late Prof. Dora challenge to other well-meaning Nigerians to appreciate the urgency of Akunyili, Amb. Timloh Butven, Prof. C.K Agomo and Prof. E.O the times, make themselves available and play a part in the on-going Akanki had actively joined and promoted the efforts of CERANY in war against drug abuse - a hydra-headed monster that leaches on the combating the scourge of drug abuse among young people of Nigeria. individual, wrecks the family unit and fuels insecurity in the land. Let’s We had traversed the length and breadth of Lagos State– and THIS HONOUR IS WELL-DESERVED AND SHOULD join hands to defeat this scourge that, inter alia, leads to stroke, cancer, beyond, taking part in orientation programmes for freshmen in tertiary SERVE AS A CHALLENGE TO OTHER WELL-MEANING damage of blood vessels, cardiovascular and terminal diseases as well institutions and organizing special anti-drug abuse counseling sessions NIGERIANS TO APPRECIATE THE URGENCY OF THE as overloads the brain, kidney and other vital organs. for secondary school students. I recall, with nostalgia, CERANY’s TIMES, MAKE THEMSELVES AVAILABLE AND PLAY A Akamadu, M.IoD is President, Centre for Ethical Rebirth Among impactful interactions, in 2004, with students of Apata Memorial PART IN THE ON-GOING WAR AGAINST DRUG ABUSE Nigerian Youths THE OLYMPICS: OUR KIDS, OUR Y OUTH, OUR FUTURE Chris Gyang canvasses the need to give more attention to our children he idea of writing this piece began swirling in hundreds of others in Nigeria’s extremely restive was still that of mere kids. before the ashes of the once boisterous Binta my mind when China’s Yang Qian won the Northern region. Among these are the more than Here in Nigeria, the mates of those teenagers Orphanage Home in Jebbu-Miango, Bassa LGA, a first gold medal of the on-going 2020 Tokyo 100 students of the Salihu Tanko Islamiya School in that are making waves at the Olympics and attract- tearful Mr. Daniel Asama, who is the Olympic Games in the women’s 10-metre Tegina, Niger State, who were abducted in May. ing accolades and adulation from the whole world Coordinator of the Association of Orphanage and Tair rifle final on July 24, 2021. The 21-year- old would DAILY SUN newspaper (July 26) captured the are almajirai roaming the nooks and crannies of Home Operators in Nigeria (ASOHON), lamented: later win a second gold in the mixed 10-metre air rifle mixed moods of the parents of the Baptist students northern Nigeria begging, scrounging for a daily “The orphanage is destroyed, the whole com- event alongside Yang Haoran on July 27. this way: “It was a tale of sadness and joy for living, in the name of seeking religious education. munity is destroyed, many people lost their lives, And as it has turned out, this work has been parents of kidnapped students of Bethel Baptist These huge armies of drifting, traumatised children those that survived the carnage are vulnerable and generously tinged with three coincidences that are High School, Damishi, yesterday. While those and broken youth are ready conscripts for Boko have been running for their dear lives while we tied to the Tokyo Games which have themselves [parents] of the 28 released students heaved a sigh Haram and ISWAP terrorist, gangs of armed have 156 children in hands struggling to survive… not been spared the vicissitudes of coincidences – of relief, families of the 87 others still in kidnappers’ bandits, the assorted criminal elements that now I can’t just understand why a human being would most of which have not been favourable. den wept; one of them slumped.” freely prowl the core north and foot soldiers for be this brutal and go as far taking the life of a It must be said that, but for the dogged deter- At the time of writing this, 13-year- old Momoji their self-serving political and religious elite. It is fellow human being and destroy [the] abode of mination of the Japanese, the COVID-19 pandemic was the youngest gold medalist in the Tokyo these rudderless youth and children that are used orphans.” would have completely scuttled the Games. The Olympics. She would have been the youngest in to swell and manipulate election figures in the core He disclosed that although the authorities of fact that the Olympics are being held at all - one Olympics history but the American diver, Marjorie north in order to perpetuate its mythical superior- the institution where able to evacuate the children year behind schedule - with athletes and sportsmen Gestring, holds that record. She won gold in the ity at the polls. before the marauders executed their heinous and women from all over the world enthusiastically springboard event during the 1936 Olympics when The second coincidence: When the ebullient assignment, the very act of attacking such an competing for honours, in spite of the pandemic, is she was about two months younger than Momoji Bishop Hassan Kukah made the valid assertion establishment would surely leave an indelible a glowing testament to the resilience of the human when she won hers. recently that it was now apparent that Nigeria had scar on the highly impressionable minds of the spirit and man’s determination to survive and When you consider the exploits of these teenag- become a country “consuming its own children children, most of whom were orphaned when their thrive, even under the harshest conditions. ers, whom we are wont to dismiss as ‘children’ and [is] faced with the prospects of an uncertain parents were killed in similar attacks. Mr. Asama’s Thus, the theme of the Games, ‘Moving Forward: in African tradition, you begin to wonder about future,” it seamlessly dovetailed with all the bitterness is thick and palpable: United by Emotion’ could not have captured the the prospects of 13-year- olds today in Nigeria, views and opinions in my head which had been “It’s a shame on humanity. I am so sad because very essence and historicity of the current moment especially in the core north where death is never triggered by Momoji’s Olympics exploit, the release we are now orphaning these children the second and times in a more succinct and appropriate far away. Unfortunately, here 13-year- old girls are of the Damishi school children and the agonies of time and they are going through a lot of trauma, fashion. routinely coerced into marrying men old enough to hundreds of others still languishing in the captivity more so that the parents of most of them were Now, the first coincidence: On July 26, 2021, the be their grand-fathers or are abducted from school of gunmen and Islamist jihadists all over the much killed in manners similar to what happened here.” 13-year- old Japanese skateboarder, Momoji Nishiya, and turned into slaves by sex-starved Islamist troubled Northern Nigeria. We shall return to the Analysts say that the Miango and Kwall won a gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics. On that terrorists, devilish predators, who exploit extremist irrepressible Bishop Kukah later. massacres, in which not less than 68 locals were same day, the news broke about the previous day’s religious ideologies to satisfy their beastly lusts. The third coincidence: On Wednesday, August 4, killed, is part of the on-going campaign of terror release of 28 out of the 115 school children who had Here, those that are 21 years old just like China’s 12-year-old Kokona Hiraki of Japan and 13-year- launched by heavily armed Fulani herdsmen and been forcibly seized on July 5 by armed bandits Yang would most likely be found in Internally old Sky Brown of the United Kingdom won silver their militia against Central Nigeria’s non-Muslim from the Bethel Baptist High School, Damishi, in Displaced Peoples’ camps taking shelter along with and bronze medals in the park skateboarding Christians aimed at dispossessing them of their Southern Kaduna, Nigeria. Apparently, their poor, their parents, having fled from Fulani terrorists event. That was the day the full extent of a ancestral lands. The Buhari-led federal government distraught, parents had been able to pay a cash or jihadists who had forcibly dispossessed them sustained armed attack launched by Fulani has been accused by local and international human ransom to the kidnappers. of their ancestral lands. In our country, girls herdsmen on the Irigwe community of Bassa Local rights groups of doing little to curb the impunity of The winners of the silver and bronze medals in within the same 17-year- old bracket with those Government Area (LGA) of Plateau State, which these herdsmen who are believed to be executing that Olympics skateboarding event were all 17-year- proud winners of silver and bronze in the Tokyo lasted for more than two days, began to unfold. a much bigger agenda of creating a homeland for olds. Therefore, as those teenagers celebrated their Olympics skateboarding event could also be found Sadly, an orphanage accommodating 156 children Africa’s Fulani population now scattered in much gold, silver and bronze medals in Tokyo, parents abandoned by their families in rehabilitation centres was among the more than 250 houses burnt down, of the Sahel. The Buhari Presidency has continu- of the 28 school children in Nigeria were also for Vesicovaginal Fistula patients, uncontrollably aside farmlands with soon-to-be-harvested crops ously denied these claims. celebrating their reunion with their children. But the leaking putrid urine. Their innocence had been and other property which were destroyed. Gyang is the Chairman of Journalists Coalition remaining 87 children are still in bondage, likewise brutally plucked when their physiological make-up While addressing newsmen on August 3, 2021, for Citizens Rights Initiative AUGUST 7, 2021 • THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER 13 INSIGHT

Pls mask up!

Nigeria and Collapse of Foreign Investment The Menace of Insecurity

igeria’s population is exploding while its economy is government and governed using the power of social media. want to draw the attention of the tertiary institutions keep graduating shrinking. Which is why financial figures released this We have created a free smartphone app called Rate Your federal government to quickly students yearly. week make such scary reading. Forecasts from the Leader to bring elected officials closer to the people who elect empower youths to put an end Thus, it will be difficult to tame International Monetary Fund (IMF) predict economic them. to the unprecedented security insecurity no matter the amount of Ngrowth in Nigeria to be just a third of the global figure for 2021. Rate Your Leader which connects verified political figures with Ichallenges bedeviling the nation. This money government will be allocat- And statistics from the National Bureau of Statistics showed a verified voters in the divisions they serve, giving local people could be achieved by introducing ing to security. 61% year-on-year decline in foreign money flowing in Nigeria. the kind of direct personal access only previously granted to the entrepreneurship programmes in the On the other hand, the menace This means fewer and fewer international customers for privileged few like lobbyists and party donors. various sectors of the country and in of insecurity takes different dimen- Nigerian businesses, and crucially, fewer and fewer investment If you want to raise something with your local leader, you can. the nation’s tertiary institutions. sion in some states, it’s gradually capital for Nigerian companies. If you want to ask them a question, you can. If you want to put The more youths are engaged, the becoming a religious crisis. Burning International businesses and investors spent $2.8bn in Nigeria forward an idea to make your community better, you can. more secure our nation will be. of churches and mosques is now in the first half of 2021. In the first half of 2020 this figure was Apps like Rate Your Leader show how transparent, responsive Nigeria has been battling with commonplace. This reflects the exact $7.2bn. and accessible political leaders can be, which builds wider trust insecurity of various forms for more mission of the masterminds in their Of these figures, foreign direct investment – overseas in our political class and political system. Rate Your Leader also than a decade. These include Boko quest to split the country. companies setting up in Nigeria - fell 36% year on year. The lets users rate local elected officials for openness and responsive- Haram insurgency, secessionists, Similarly, insecurity is greatly af- World Bank has also estimated that foreign investment in Nigeria ness, rewarding our most transparent and accessible politicians kidnapping, banditry, communal fecting Nigeria’s economy negatively is down 80% in recent times. Foreign portfolio investments – the and highlighting their qualities to other voters. clashes, cyber crimes, cultism, among over a long period of time. There- purchase of Nigerian securities or other assets fell from $4.7bn to The app also gives politicians a real-time insight into what others. All these are poverty and fore, creation of job opportunities for $1.5bn in a single year – a drop of nearly 70%. matters most to the people who elect them – allowing them unemployment- related problems. youths should be our priority so as The impact of the Covid-19 pandemic will have of course to take action, make changes and win the respect, trust and However, these problems persist to end the menace of insecurity in played a part, with many businesses across the globe practically affection of the people they serve. despite the huge money being Nigeria. The government and other mothballed for months. We are a nation held back by the notion that everyone else allocated to security every year. major stakeholders should create But there is long-term systemic reason for the collapse of is only out for themselves – from the very top of the country Therefore, the best way to end an enabling environment for peace foreign investment in our nation. Nigeria does not appear to be down. This isn’t true. insecurity is to create job opportuni- to reign in the country, and for the safe for investment. But the idea is spreading to other nations too. And that is ties for the youths. The number of progress of the nation. But we should be an unbeatable one. In population terms something that our economy simply cannot afford. jobless youths outweigh the number Ukasha Rabiu Magama, Toro alone we offer overseas organisations one of the largest domestic Joel Popoola is a Nigerian tech entrepreneur and digital of the employed youths, and our LGA, markets on Earth. Then there is our vast human capital. We democracy campaigner have ambition: Our young people are the most likely in all of Africa to have considered running for elected office. We are Covid, Vaccines and Deaths entrepreneurial: 71% of our young people have an idea for here are so many headlines about a business. We are innovative, having been described as COVID and vaccines and deaths that “Africa’s most attractive tech hub for investors” and home THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER they eventually blur into one mass that to the most start-ups in Africa. EDITOR YEMI ADEBOWALE now seems to pass by but one recent Just last year, consultants McKinsey reported that DEPUTY EDITOR AHAMEFULA OGBU Tcase that gave the fact that Indonesia’s total Nigeria’s Fintech sector has raised more than $600 million MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO deaths has passed 100,000 is a stark reminder DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU in funding between 2014 and 2019. CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI of reality. But if that funding dries up, how are the companies of EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN A few facts need to be written in stone. tomorrow supposed to take their businesses to the next MANAGING EDITOR BOLAJI ADEBIYI Yes there is a pandemic, and the best level, growing their international sales, workforces and – THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE approach is vaccination and lockdown, yes government – tax bills, which in turn will pay for better sorry Boris Johnson the UK Prime Minister public health, education and infrastructure. has got it wrong. Those that deny this This investment is the lifeblood our future economy. But should be blocked from all media and, yes investors are increasingly looking elsewhere. THISDAY NEWSPAPERS LIMITED freedom of expression does not override For a reason why they are doing that, we need look EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA the freedom to live. In reality, should the GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, only to the recent research from pressure group YIAGA, ISRAEL IWEGBU, IJEOMA NWOGWUGWU, EMMANUEL EFENI covidiots who protest in mass, unmasked, who have suggested an astonishing $582bn has been lost to DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE crowds, be charged with manslaughter? corruption in our nation since independence. Investors will DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI There are, or more accurately 100,000 people not see a return on their investment when it is quite clear SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH in Indonesia that may have had an opinion how much of it is likely to end up in the back pockets of ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI on the matter. the duplicitous, the dodgy and the dishonest. CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI Get your vaccination now, mask up and DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO We need to build international trust in Nigeria. And that stay at home, please! battle begins at home. At the digital democracy campaign TO SEND EMAIL: first [email protected] Dennis Fitzgerald, Melbourne, Australia I lead we are looking to rebuild the relationship between 14 THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER AUGUST 7, 2021 NEWSXTRA ‘Allegations of Funds Misappropriations FG Invokes No Work, No Pay in NEDC Mischievous’ Segun Awofadeji Rule on Striking Doctors in Bauchi misappropriation of funds in the NEDC. Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja last night, said that the federal the resident doctors went on strike niqué at the end of their National The Chairman, North East He said that the so called government had decided that if in April and seize their salaries. Executive Council (NEC) meeting Youths and Elders Forum, Alhaji NEYPFN that made those false Federal government has issued an by Monday, the resident doctors According to the minister, a held in Umuahia, Abia State capital, Salihu Muhammad Magaji, has allegations was a faceless group, order to stop payment of salaries of fail to return to their duty post that circular to this effect has been issued directing its members nationwide described the allegations of stressing that the group was not the resident doctors in the country they would be made to lose the and communicated to NARD and to begin strike last Monday. misappropriation of funds against known in the whole of the North- who embarked on nationwide strike pay beginning from the day of the its members by yesterday. The association said: “after critical the North East Development east region. last Monday. commencement of the strike until He added that the government appraisal of the performance of both Commission (NEDC) under the Magaji said it was unfortunate The government also said that it is called off. would by Monday declare talks federal and state governments on leadership of for some people who claim to have it would refer the dispute between “The no work, no pay rule with doctors on a failed negotiation all the issues affecting the welfare Akali as “mischievious and a come from the Northern part of it and the National Association has been triggered off with effect and proceed to refer the issue to of our members as observed above deliberate attempt to paint him the country to make false claims of Resident Doctors (NARD) to from Monday August 2, and if by the Industrial Court. and the insincerity of government black for selfish reasons.” and accusations against Alkali, the National Industrial Court for Monday they do not return to work, “I will also take additional steps to in implementing the Memorandum Magaji stated this during a press pointing out that even though arbitration. government will be compelled to declare discussions with the doctors of Action after 113 days, the NEC conference yesterday in Bauchi, the group petitioned the National Minister of Labour and Em- implement the order to the letter,” a failed conciliation and refer the unanimously resolved by vote to while reacting to some publications Assembly and Federal House of ployment, Senator Chris Ngige he said. matter to the arbitration panel or resume the total and indefinite strike in the media where the North Representatives committee to carry while confirming the measure to Ngige said that the government National Industrial Court,” he said. action from 08.00hrs on Monday, East Youth Progressive Forum out investigations in the NEDC, THISDAY in a telephone interview would also compute the period that NARD had issued a commu- August 2, 2021.” of Nigeria (NEYPFN) Chairman Alkali was vindicated and com- Comrade Maina Bukar alleged mended for his transparency. Arrive Alive Opens Diagnostic Centre for COVID-19 Testing

Ugo Aliogo lishment of the Ikoyi COVID testing centre, we are able to Àll these gaps with our robust Arrive Alive Diagnostics and IT infrastructure, state-of-the-art Imaging Services (AADIS) has PCR equipment and evidence- opened a new diagnostic centre based improved work processes. dedicated to the testing of the What we hope to achieve with Coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2. this is e΀ciency. We are bringing The wholly-owned indig- convenience to the entire testing enous company with a vision process and aim to give all our to be the foremost in quality clients quality services that will healthcare made this move to exceed their expectations.” bring e΀ciency to the process THISDAY learnt that Ar- of COVID-19 testing and result rive Alive has its new testing delivery. centre at Ikoyi, Lagos with Speaking on the reasons drive-through testing services for creating the new site, the available. EXCELLENT INVESTITURE… director of Arrive Alive, Dr. The facility undertakes Maame Fuwaa Antwi-GyamÀ, corporate or group COVID-19 L-R:Vice-Chancellor, Adeleke University, Professor Solomon Adebola; Mrs. Adeleke-Sanni; Chief Modupe Adeleke-Sanni; and the Registrar, Africa stated that “We identiÀed gaps testing upon request and has Institute of Public Health Professionals, Prof. Ayodelele Bankole; at the investiture of Mrs Adeleke as a Fellow of the institute held at Adeleke in COVID-19 PCR testing which home testing services available in University, Osun State... recently include long turnaround times as Lagos, while “sample collectors well as cumbersome registration are trained on biosafety issues. and results tracking processes. Hence, they ensure samples are Former Presidential Hopeful Olawepo- The laboratory practitioner- taken, stored and transported in-charge, Ms. Lilian Ogechi to the laboratory without con- Hashim Pitches Tent with APC Vincent, said “By the estab- tamination.” In what is said to be a move to party is a reasonable pathway for adopted legacy of graft and display friends and associates of over 23 rejuvenate his long-term struggle the preservation of the unity and of criminal opulence. The other years, Governor Abdulrahman Certificate Forgery, Attempt to Dent for the improvement of the lot progress of the nation. party is a far cry from the com- Abdulrazak of Kwara State. of the people, former presidential He stressed that he is now also munity of honourable men and He added that he has also My Name, Says House Spokesman aspirant, Mr. Gbenga Olawepo- convinced about the passion of women that it was in 1998 when received support and encourage- Hashim has joined the ruling All President Muhammadu Buhari’s we launched it,” he said. ments from former Governor of Udora Orizu in Abuja politician who is rising so this is Progressives Congress (APC). anti-corruption movement even Lately rated with President , George Akume, who their way of attempting to sprinkle Olawepo-Hashim announced in though critics have questioned the Buhari as one of the most en- is equally an important leader Spokesman of the House of imaginary dents on my image. It a statement that he is opting for the effectiveness of his anti-corruption gaging political leaders online, of the party in the North-central Representatives, Hon. Benjamin is sub-judicial to begin to discuss APC to actualise his vision because crusade. Olawepo-Hashim revealed that zone, and a major political ally Okezie Kalu, has described the the content of the matter in detail. the party is not just populated by “Ironically, the other party he has formally registered in since their days as founding lawsuit questioning the authenticity Again, my constituents, friends and people with whom they founded does not even care a whim about Usuma Ward as it is procedurally members of then ruling party, of his names as nothing but a mere family should not worry it will end the opposition Peoples Democratic curbing corruption and regrettably, required, saying this was after series the Peoples Democratic Party attempt to sprinkle an imaginary in praise for what God cannot do Party (PDP), but also because the its members celebrate their newly of consultations with his longtime (PDP) in 1999. dent on his clean image. does not exist. They shall gather A member of the All Progressives and take counsel but it shall not Congress (APC), Hon. Okechukwu stand, only the counsel of God shall 134 Nigerians Receive ‘FG to Engage Oil Bearing Ezeala, filed a suit asking an stand,” he said. Umuahia High Court under trial “Let them dent my image, I’m Erasmus Scholarships Communities over PIB’ Justice O.A. Chijioke to sack Kalu confident the truth will clean it. over alleged certificate forgery and After all, when I signed for politics Michael Olugbode in Abuja Borges Gomes, said for over 30 Following threats and counter- He stressed the need for com- impersonation. I signed for smear campaigns like years, students and staͿ have threats over rising tempers concern- munities to protect national assets Other defendants in the suit this. I have my eyes on the ball, it The European Union (EU) moved between European ing the three percent allocated to also charged them to ensure proper No. HU/265/2020, include the does not matter how threatened has awarded scholarships to universities in the Erasmus oil bearing communities in the management of the funds and avoid ruling APC, the Independent they are, I am going for the goal 134 young Nigerians for various programme. Petroleum Industry Bill just passed bickering which had made Bonny National Electoral Commission and not perturbed at all. They know master’s degree programmes in He disclosed that since 2016 by the National Assembly, the federal Island communities to be unable (INEC) and the Speaker, House this, that’s why they are paying universities across Europe under Erasmus+ has allowed short-term government has moved to engage to access funds paid to them by of Representatives. all media platforms to discuss my its Erasmus Mundus Joint Master mobility to Europe from ACP host communities. the Nigeria Liquefied Natural In the originating summons, simple change of name as illegal. Degrees Programme. countries for students, researchers, The move is in a bid to douse Gas Company (NLNG) owing Ezeala alleged that Kalu’s primary Erasmus, often described as a and staͿ. tensions as protests have been rife as to litigations. and secondary school certificates had prestigious international study He noted that there is a distinct the host communities had pressed Sylva assured the Ijaw leaders irregularities, saying the surnames programme is part of the EU’s budget for diͿerent regions that for 10 percent stake. that he had extracted understanding on his certificates are completely Áagship educational and training are divided, however, $32.5 The move to engage the Niger from multinational oil companies different from his current names. programme, Erasmus+, which billion would be spent for the Delta communities was announced to relocate their operational head- But arguing the matter, Kalu’s supports education, training, programme. yesterday by the Minister of State for quarters to the region. counsel, K. C. Nwufor (SAN) in youth, and sport in Europe. The envoy said with 134 Petroleum, Mr. Timipre Sylva who “We are planning, alongside a statement said that the matter The beneÀciaries of the award students it is an achievement assured some visiting Ijaw leaders the Minister of Information and was not tenable. this year as the highest in the for Nigeria this year, noting of the commitment yesterday in Culture, to hold town hall meetings Speaking to THISDAY, the House annal of the scholarship award that Nigeria is top from Africa Abuja. in the host communities after the Spokesman, said as a lawyer, he in a single year in Nigeria. and top six across the world for According to News Agency presidential assent to the PIB. had confidence in the judicial The Àrst Counsellor, deputy Erasmus students. of Nigeria, the Ijaw leaders “We need to have more stakehold- system, urging his constituents head of delegation, European Gomes explained that the selec- congratulated Sylva for breaking ers’ engagement on the three per to be patient and allow the court Union Delegation to Nigeria tion process is based on merit, the jinx and ensuring the passage cent allocated to the communities, to take a position on the matter. and the Economic Community adding that their applications of the PIB after over 20 years of people need to know that it is from “Maybe the name Rep Benjamin of West African States, Alexandre were reviewed by panelists. gathering dust. production costs, not from profit. Kalu is so sparkling clean for a THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER AUGUST 7, 2021 15

08054699539 Terrorist Ali Kachalla Must Be Brought to Justice or those who have not been following the story, this first bit of information Faskari, Sabuwa, Safana, Kankara, Danmusa, will be useful. Ali Kachalla is the leader This Fulani militia leader, based in Dansadau, has the Dutsin-ma, Danja and Kurfi. Governor Bello of the main gang terrorising Zamfara Masari lamented when he met Army Chief, State in particular and other parts of blood of hundreds of innocent people on his hands. Faruk Yahaya, last Wednesday, saying: “10 out the North-west. He has been doing of the 34 Local Government Areas in Katsina this for almost five years. This Fulani militia Kachalla enjoys a free rein in and state are under severe daily attack by bandits. F These bandits kill, rape, injure the people, burn leader, based in Dansadau, has the blood of hundreds of innocent people on his hands. beyond. He goes about, unhindered, killing, maiming houses and rustle cattle.” Kachalla enjoys a free rein in Zamfara State I’m shocked the Army, police, DSS and other and beyond. He goes about, unhindered, and kidnapping for money. Everybody in the state security agencies are yet to invite leaders of killing, maiming and kidnapping for money. these terrorists in the North-west for questioning. Everybody in the state knows Kachalla has his knows Kachalla has his major camp in the notorious Our security agencies have not declared them major camp in the notorious Kuyambana forest wanted. They know them and the territories (Maru Local Government Area) from where Kuyambana forest (Maru Local Government Area) they control; yet, special squads are not after attacks are launched on other parts of Zamfara, them. Even when President Buhari ordered that Sokoto, Kebbi and Katsina states. Security agents from where attacks are launched on other parts of people carrying AK-47 should be dealt with, know this. Governor Bello Matawalle knows this. nothing happened. Of course, it was just a comical Unfortunately, concrete steps have not been taken Zamfara, Sokoto, Kebbi and Katsina states. Security instruction from the President. The extremists to checkmate him. The military, Police and DSS are enjoying a free rein while security agencies pretend to be unaware of his location. Perhaps, agents know this. Unfortunately, concrete steps have look the other way. Clearly, there are things the they are waiting for “clear instructions” from Buhari government is not telling Nigerians about President Muhammadu Buhari before moving not been taken to checkmate him these terrorists and their leaders. against Kachalla. Members of the House of Lords, the upper This outlaw has an estimated 200 fighters chamber of the British parliament - Caroline stationed in the Kuyambana forest, all armed Cox, Rowan Williams, David Alton, Mervyn Thomas and Ayo Adedoyin – were apt when with AK-47. His armed men outnumber those side of the river. But, his large herd of cattle, many thought was the leader of the bastards in of other terrorists in the North-west. Last month, they noted that Nigerians under President Buhari manned by his heavily armed boys, is based Dungun Muazu forest, was killed few weeks administration are at the mercy of non-state Kachalla masterminded the downing of the in Zamfara State. As I’m talking to you, his back in a fight that broke out between his gang fighter jet of the Nigerian Air Force near Kabaru actors who unleash attacks on individuals and boys can be found in Dandalla, Madada and and a rival gang of bandits in the state over communities at will. They expressed their fears in village, about 15 kilometres west of Dansadau Gobirawa Kwacha communities. The villages the marriage of a woman. town. There were no repercussions. That tells a recent protest letter to the UK foreign secretary, are all situated southeast of Dansadau town. It is so painful watching these terrorists control Dominic Raab, citing a recent event where bandits you how powerful Kachalla has become. This They are all controlled by his armed men.” territories, kill and maim citizens, in a country terrorist, in his thirties, has become a law unto shot down a Nigerian Air Force fighter jet. Right in Matawalle’s backyard is another supposedly with a government. Many women “We fear that Nigerian citizens are now at himself. Daily, he whips residents of Dansadau notorious Fulani militia leader, Dogo Gide, who have been widowed and children orphaned who dare to oppose or hinder his lawlessness. the mercy of non-state actors who have been controls the southern part of the Zamfara forest across the North-west by these guerrillas. Last allowed to evolve and now have the capacity The people persistently send ransom to him. and further into Niger State. Matawalle knows Wednesday, the gang rampaging in Zurmi Local Recently, when some people in the community to shoot down a fighter jet, as has recently oc- the whereabouts of Gide and his boys. All the Government Area of Zamfara State abducted curred in Kaduna. These non-state actors are blocked supply of food to his troops, Kachalla security agents know this location; yet, the militias the father of the Speaker of the state’s House captured and inflicted pain on them. The fear currently unleashing terror at will, particularly in still launch attacks unhindered. Dogo Gide’s of Assembly, Nasiru Muazu Magarya. They the North-East and North-West,” the letter said. of Kachalla is palpable in Dansadau. gang also operates in Kaduna State. This team also kidnapped the Speaker’s stepmother, uncle In an attack on the community on July 23, The world must not allow Nigeria to sink. is suspected to have recently killed 18 people, and four others in a raid on his community, These British Lawmakers must go beyond protest Kachalla killed four villagers, abducted scores including a police officer, in five communities Magarya, Zurmi LGA. and set ablaze a military armoured personnel letters. They must hold Buhari accountable and in Chawai chiefdom, Kauru Local Government I will never forget how the terrorists based put him under pressure to secure the lives of vehicle in the community, while the soldiers fled. Area of Kaduna State. in Kadawa Village, in the same Zurmi LGA, On that occasion, the villagers were punished Nigerians. Perhaps, a push from outside would Another terror kingpin enjoying free rein butchered 93 people early last June. Residents do the magic. I’m just hoping. for reporting his movement to security agents. in Zamfara State is Halilu Sububu. His men of this Zamfara State village are still mourning Kachalla also punished them for allegedly assisting are based in the Sububu forest located between their loved ones killed. Within three days last security personnel to rescue the pilot whose Shinkafi and Maradun local government Areas. April - 20 to 22 - 80 people were killed by the fighter jet was shot down. From the forest, they launch attacks on travelers terrorists and counter killings by Yan Sakai who Daily, Kachalla kills and kidnaps Hausa on Sokoto-Gusau Road as well as villages in defend Hausa farmers, in series of attacks in War in Katsina farmers in Dansadau. He has cornered hundreds Sokoto and Zamfara states. four villages - Gobirawa, Rini, Gora, and Madoti of plots of land from these people and uses Dungun Muazu forest located in the Sabuwa Dankule - in Bakura and Maradun LGAs. Emirate over Open them for his own cattle rearing. Kachalla’s Local Government Area of Katsina State is also In Zamfara State, the terrorists control vast cattle graze with ease on this conquered land home to hundreds of military-uniform-wearing areas in Maru, Dansadau, Zurmi, Shinkafi, in Maru LG. A resident of Dansadau remarked: terrorists who attack across the North-west. Here, Bungudu, Bakura and Maradun LGAs. In Katsina Grazing “Kachalla’s settlements, consisting of several there is no clear leader. Dogo Najaballah, who State, they control large land in Batsari, Jibia, strings of thatched huts, is on Birnin Gwari The Wakilin Kudin Katsina, Alhaji Abdu Iliyasu has never hidden his dislike for open grazing of animals in the Emirate. Hundreds of lives have A Word for Mai Mala Buni been lost in clashes between herders and crop farmers in this domain. But terms of achievements. people. The Yobe APC stakeholders were right getting the Emirate Council to join the The APC remains a divided house, with the to demand your impeachment because of your clamour for a ban of open grazing has CPC, ANPP and New PDP legs permanently at “unavailability in the state to discharge your been tough, despite the atrocities of daggers drawn. Besides, majority of the founders constitutional duties as governor.” herders. An obviously angry Iliyasu of the APC see you as an agent of destruction, The Chairman, Yobe APC Stakeholders, did the extraordinary last Wednesday, out to terminate the APC. Of course, you were Hussain Muhammad, said recently: “Buni not there when the APC was formed. I guess has abandoned the state and only visits once when he openly made a case for the ban that is why you, a sitting governor is insisting in a month. It has become expedient to draw of open grazing in Katsina metropolis on running the show for the APC as National the attention of the public, especially the state and its surrounding communities. He Chairman, even when it is obvious that it will House of Assembly, to the aberration of having wants the Emirate to put machinery in destroy the APC. My advice to you this morning a governor who is non-functional. Buni was not place for its effective implementation. is a straight forward one: Resign honourably elected as APC’s Acting National Chairman, But the palace was quick to openly and let the APC be. You have no business but as governor and he swore to repudiate Iliyasu. The spokesman for being the party’s National Chairman. obey the constitution. It is our position that he the Katsina Emirate Council, Mallam I am also surprised that you said gov- had become a self-serving governor, who Iro Bindawa, said it was not an official ernance was not suffering in your beloved failed and betrayed his people when they position. Yobe State because of your APC job. My dear needed him the most. Pressure is also mounting on Iliyasu governor Yobe, you have simply abandoned “As stakeholders, we have made both your people. This is the truth that must individual and collective efforts at letting to renounce the statement. For now, be told. How can a man elected governor Mai Mala Buni realise his mistakes, but it he is still standing by his position. be this cruel to the electorates? You once appears that as we inch closer to making him But I doubt if it would be for long. Governor Mai Mala Buni said you visit Yobe at least three times in a realise, he digs in further into his sit-tight My message to the Katsina Emirate month, in defence against the accusation of plans at the party’s national secretariat. We, Council is a simple one: Open grazing My dear Governor Mai Mala Buni, you desertion. This is preposterous. Were you therefore, call on the Yobe State House of of animals is an aberration in modern have spent virtually the last 15 months in voted to spend just few days in a month Assembly to begin impeachment process societies. Katsina can’t be an excep- Abuja, working as the Chairman, Caretaker in Yobe State? Obviously, there is no way if he fails to resign as governor.” tion. This Emirate must work towards Committee of the All Progressives Congress, these two jobs can be combined. They are both These Yobe stakeholders are making ending this abnormality and close the APC, at the expense of your main job as the tasking. Project Yobe is now suffering because sense. Unfortunately, the Yobe State House of elected governor of Yobe State. You need to killings arising from clashes between Buni is spending more time on project APC. Assembly is incompetent. Buni, please return herders and crop farmers. This is the be honest about your impact on the party in Huge files are always on your table in Damaturu to Yobe and face your constitutional duties. the last 15 months. Apart from successfully waiting for attention. The other day when Boko Allow the APC to look for another person to only way forward for Katsina Emirate intimidating some PDP governors to join the Haram attacked Geidam, you were not even pilot its affairs. This is clearly not a job for an in particular and Nigeria in general. APC, you have nothing tangible to show in available for condolence visit to the traumatised incumbent governor. The truth is constant. 16 SATURDAY AUGUST 7, 2021 • THISDAY THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER AUGUST 7, 2021 17

Ferdinand Ekechukwu 08035011394 Email: [email protected] SHOWBIZFLAIR Jim Iyke Takes on Internet Trolls Ferdinand Ekechukwu

ften time, celebri- ties get attacked or bullied follow- ing their social media posts or activities online by trolls. This sometimes leave these stars bruised andO troubled within their quiet space to some extent that they feel they could get hold and exert their pain on these cyber bullies who have untowardly become a thorn in their flesh. Sometimes these trolls, having bashed their victims with vile com- ments, leave behind mischievous remarks like “I’m in my house, come and beat me”, knowing that it’s unlikely to reach or locate them wherever they are at any particular moment. The foregoing is the crux of a forthcoming movie titled Bad Com- ments. Produced by ace Nollywood actor, Jim Iyke, Bad Comments bares supposed contempt, hatred and jealousy celebrities go through daily and how just a moment can be used to define and tag their personalities, not excusing their humanity. Aside being popular in Nollywood, Jim Iyke is also well-known for his deadly clap- backs at internet trolls. In Bad Comments’, which marks his debut production, Iyke plays the role of Frank Orji, a Nollywood actor living the ideal celebrity lifestyle, being the biggest star in the industry. He soon embarks on a revenge-thirsty mission after getting excessively bullied by internet trolls. The film stars Chiwetalu Agu, Osas Ighodaro, Patience Ozokwo, Sharon Ooja, Ini Edo, Timaya, among other big names in Nigeria’s entertainment industry. Opening in cinemas across the country and Ghana from Friday 27th Jim Iyke August 2021, a two minutes twenty seconds trailer for the highly antici- pated movie was released last Mon- Enjoy the trailer.” Jim Iyke at the same occasion between the ages of perhaps 2 to day by the director, Moses Inwang. Scenes from the trailer depict fast- confirmed it, adding that the need to even 100, we all have to live in the Inwang posted alongside the trailer, paced fusion of drama and thriller, make a statement and represent how internet space; we’ve all dabbled into “See eh, if I could, I would make with a blend of momentary comedic everyone actually feels made him the internet or the social media space 10 blockbuster films for y’all every relief. Inspired by true-life events, tell the relatable story from his point one way or the other. year,” But I don’t have the mental it mirrors the life of celebrities and of view. He explained in a recent “So I needed to create a script that capacity to do that. Just one or two how their careers can be at the mercy chat with this reporter: “The script resonates across all board. I don’t just maybe. So enjoy the 2nd one this year. of propaganda circulated by social resonated with me because I wanted want to create a normal Nollywood It’s one of the most exciting films media trolls. Once speaking on the a script that has a ‘now’ propensity film or an African film or American you’re going to see on the big screen. movie, Inwang said it was the situa- to it, a script that is abreast with the film. I wanted a film told from the It is themed around the social media tion of one of the biggest Nollywood times, a script that the millennials as prism of our perspective that will shenanigans that we see here every stars that fell into depression because well can wrap their heads around, a resonate with any individual in the day. It’s intriguing, it’s explosive, of the “Bad comments” on social script that is part of our lives. I said world. And that was why I chose this (and) it’s called BAD COMMENTS! media targeted towards him. it at the conference sometime that film.” Viktor Snipes’ Debut EP is Ready Ferdinand Ekechukwu showcases him as a person and his the Edo state singer is currently the After a good outing last year fol- Afro/hiphop fusion genre. “S2DNi only artiste signed to his record label, lowing his #EndSars inspired single is my introduction, it’s my message Snipes Record. After testing the wa- ‘Soro Soke’, and Amapiano single opener, it’s my ‘Hello I’m Snipes, it’s ters previously with several freestyle ‘Kpo Kpo’, fast rising act and lyrical- nice to meet you’, Snipes explains. tracks, in March 2021, Viktor Snipes ly-impressive Viktor Snipes has made “On this EP, I tried to showcase all released “Puta”, a collaborative effort good his promise as he gears up for a parts of who I am as a person, the with alte hip-hop artiste BlaqBonez. packed final quarter of the year with good, the bad and the ugly. This earned him a spotlight on Vol. his debut EP scheduled for release on “This project is honest, this project 128 of ‘Who Get Ear’, a Pulse Nigeria August 27, 2021. Titled S2DNi, the is me. I focused more on telling my flagship weekly feature for some of 6-tracks EP will lead with the single own story and painting my own por- the best songs and upcoming acts in “International Vocal” which is set to trait as opposed to conforming and the music industry. ‘Puta’ has gone drop on August 13, a fortnight to the talking more about what the audience on to garner over 200,000 cumulative EP release date. would like to hear in a bid to sound streams and was featured on several Speaking on the forthcoming body more appealing. As a new artiste I editorial playlists. of work, Snipes, who has been around want to grow organically, build my The new artiste holds two Bachelor since 2015 as a disc jockey before tran- identity and sound and grow my degrees - Computer Science and Civil siting to a recording artiste in 2020, niche audience.” Engineering - from foreign universi- says the project tells his story and Born Victor Emuan Omovbude, ties. Viktor Snipes 18 THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER AUGUST 7, 2021 INTERVIEW

Babangida Babangida: I Have Started Visualising a Good Nigerian Leader…I Have Seen 1 or 2 or 3 Already in Their 60s The name General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida evokes a lot of emotions, some positive and others negative but love him or hate him, he is intellectually sagacious, militarily tactical and socially amiable hence the sobriquets, Maradona and evil genius which he credits the media with dressing him in the togas. He is turning 80 soon and fielded questions from our sister Station, Arise News Network where he addressed myriad of issues ranging from leadership, insecurity, anticorruption and explained why the June 12 election was annulled…Excerpts

irst of all, it will be spot on to congratulate you on your were confident that I will one day grow up to be somebody within the especially in Africa. We had to go through this, Africa, Latin America and 80 years, how does it feel turning 80? society and as God will have it, they didn’t get to see me grow up within so on so we were not an exception. I feel good but I continue to be very grateful to God for the community. Of course I turned out to be more than their expectations. allowing us to see this day, I think I am grateful to God. So you think the civil war was not inevitable? You can’t talk about the history of Nigeria without talking about the If you watch, before the civil war, we had a lot of problems, we had Looking back 80years, your childhood, growing up, role you have played, from way back in 1966 when the first coup hap- instability in the system, we had Tiv riots, operation wettie, we had a joining the military, being involved in the Nigerian pened and then you had to intervene at some level; in 1976 you foiled lot of stability operations in the country that culminated into the civil civil war, being involved at every level of governance the coup against the late Murtala Muhammed and all those iconic war. So, it didn’t come to us as a surprise. in Nigeria in the last 50years or more, what are the things that stand periods, tell us that fight you had to fight to keep Nigeria one and Fout for you looking back? the fact that today, Nigeria is still struggling with the issue of unity? Let’s talk about your role in the military and the role of the military in Now I think one thing, if I look back, I keep on saying I wished my parents Well, I think that at that time, the first problem started in 1966, Nigeria governance over the years until 1999. A lot of people argue that the were alive to see certain level of my development. I lost them when I was six years old as an independent country. We were just struggling; incursion of the military into governance set Nigeria back decades if was in my formative years. By the time I was 14, I lost both parents and we were trying to be a nation. We haven’t fully become a nation, just a not centuries, what’s your thought on that, do you think the military everyday it comes to me that I wished one of them or both of them were group of people in a geographical environment called Nigeria; I didn’t coming in to power was a setback to Nigeria? alive when I became a military officer. believe we built a nation and that is the major problem. Well, I saw the military’s intervention as part of developing process in a That was why there was instability within the country; this culminated developing country like Nigeria. I can take you back to the whole continent Did losing them at 14 affect you in anyway? into a civil war and all developing countries had to go through that process. of Africa, sometime in 1952 military started intervening in governance I used to hear them talking , they were always wishing me well; they I was quite aware of this and convinced that this is only developing country in Africa. 1952 was Egypt and then from Egypt it started going through THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER AUGUST 7, 2021 19 INTERVIEW The Leaders Should Understand Nigeria and Nigerians to other countries and it was a vogue then to stage a coup in a lot of these countries and we couldn’t be an exception, we had officers who were trained, highly educated and following the events that were happening in other countries; so it is not unusual to develop these people that had this type of mentality. I think we came in at a time these things were happening throughout the world and they were acceptable. Fundamentally, Nigeria is still struggling to be a nation, what do you think is wrong at the base that the Fulani man doesn’t seem to have a sense of belonging, the Igbo man doesn’t, the Yoruba man doesn’t, everybody is thinking about their own part of the country, what do you think is responsible for that? On the contrary I think again if you look back, if you take a place like Bagga up in the north east, the Igbo man, the Yoruba man travels up to Bagga for trading, he lived very comfortable, he lived very well with the people around there, they do their normal trading and so on. Even politically, in Enugu, in the 50s you had an Hausa man who was a mayor. If you go to Lagos the same thing, you have Yorubas, Igbos who are holding political appointments at local levels and live very well with the people. I think we the elites we did not succeed in imbibing that culture for the country so we rather lived with the culture that Europeans handed over to us, distinct Northern Nigeria, Eastern Nigeria, Western Nigeria until the first time when we had Midwestern but we did not mould ourselves as a nation; so I feel very strongly that was what happened, the political elites then that were being developed they ran back Babangida to their cocoons and accept o yes, I have to be an Igbo man to be this or that and till today unfortunately, the political class are not going into this very seriously and was on that basis they voted for you so why not give say how do we build a nation. What should we be talking about? him his money and hold him responsible, you promised What are the indices that make you think they We should be talking about how to encourage, how them ABCD what have you achieved? Because you are doing or should be done to actually move the So how do we build a nation? to strengthen what we have agreed; if we agree we are on top and they are your people; you should be economy forward? We have to rewrite the narrative are going to be united Nigeria since 51 years ago, we their governor notwithstanding you have different I think it is to mobilise the people towards achieving should now be talking on how to strengthen that unity. political belief. He looked at me and said I should be this common objective. You should prove to them they How? If we are going to have a federating unit, we are going a politician I said no I rather be a Reverend but this is can do it, the resources are there and you are there to Okay, You are now arguing among yourselves on to be talking about how we want to see our federation; the argument I argue with a lot of my friends. I believe provide the leadership and to support them. how to build political parties; we knew it was doable if we want to talk about the local governments on for example in resource control but mention it to a lot because we did it, we had political parties that were how they should have free fund , whether they should of people somebody will cut your head. Are you concerned that the Naira side by side the being led by people from other parts of the country govern themselves, we should be talking about how dollar is about 550 presently, what do you have and they blended very well, they talked to people, they that should be achieved. Why won’t they have resource control, what is to say to that? had the same common vision about this country, what responsible for that? It says a lot but I think we can address it… production. they want the country to be and I give you an example, So what is the way out? This belief that this is our own God-given thing in Once people can produce a lot of things they can easily I believe in free market economy so anybody who will The way out, when I told you leadership, the leaders our own environment; I want my people to benefit sell either export or within the country I think it will come to talk and not talk about free market economy should understand Nigeria and Nigerians so anybody from it, this is our own area, this possession thing. stabilise. I wouldn’t talk with him because we don’t have core who wants a position of leadership, you must be a values in this country, these are core values beyond person who will be able to use your intellect to benefit Let me explore the issue of local government you just How can that production come about and you have which no one is going to allow you to do anything and Nigerians. There are things you believe whether in talked about, the current President Muhammadu unemployment at about 33 per cent, you have a the politicians, the elites all, I think we have to blend Niger or wherever and I want to lead a state, fine, Buhari signed Executive Order 10, the governors huge youth population, almost 70 per cent of the in this country. this is an agrarian state, my thought will be how to frowned at it. I remember during your time you population are youths and yet Nigeria Is the poverty take advantage of that God-given situation to better increased allocation from 10 to 20 per cent what capital of the world? Would you say then that the tyranny of the elites the wellbeing of the people. are your thoughts on that, don’t you think the There is too much control in the way the economy is what has contributed to the security situation governors should take a lot of responsibilit from is being run, we should open it further, if we do that for example that Nigeria finds itself now; banditry, Do you think it is just the lack of understanding of the way local government situation is now? and tap into the God-given talent that we have I think kidnapping in north east, north west and secessionist Nigerians that is missing or just outright lack of This is where your restructuring comes in. At we will go far. sentiments in the South East and even South West, love and care in Nigeria, what is actually missing? the state level I want to see a situation where the banditry, kidnapping all across the country, what From my experience, Nigerians are very resilient governor is there, the constitution describes his area of Let’s go back to insecurity, what would be your do you think is the fundamental problem and what people, very fertile minded people so if you want to lead responsibility, it defines his powers; anything that has recommendation in terms of the need to train the is the way out of the vicious cycle of insecurity? them you have to take a lot of things into consideration. to do with administration at the local government level military, is the military overwhelmed and some I think the problem is leadership. There is disconnect They are very good, very resilient, very industrious the state governor does not have to but if it comes people will argue (cuts in) between the leadership and the followership. If there so how do I put all these together to get a common to something bigger like during some disasters the Not overwhelmed but maybe overstretched. The is no disconnect, when people connect with each objective? state can come in to help the local government that’s military I believe has the wherewithal to fight this banditry other at the various leadership levels and talk about what I am saying. The laws are there. I saw somebody and bring the system back but I think the problem is the community, state and federation then we will not So is that where restructuring for example comes talking about the concurrent and exclusive lists that is that they are doing too much, they are overstretched have problems whatsoever but we don’t have core in? Some people have blamed you as part of the something along that line I am not a lawyer, I have no and subsequently because of the space they have to values in the country that everybody depends and problem in terms of the structure of the country idea but I think it should give people more within their occupy they have fairly obsolete equipment but one defends all the time. You defend that core value and presently; you created 11 states during your time as capability, give them more control over their affairs of the most important thing which they don’t have to this is what you believe in, anything short of that are military president which some say further alienated over their resources. lose sight of the military must believe in what they are not going to be acceptable. I give you an example, when the leadership from the people and you are quoted fighting for, they must be provided with the wherewithal we were in the military we talked about settled issues as saying that the time to restructure Nigeria is Would you connect the structure of the polity to the to meet up with that objective of the country and then about Nigeria. The unity of Nigeria as far as we were now, if we say restructuring is the way to go what dismal state the Nigerian economy actually finds it must be well trained and well led. concerned was a settled issue, presidentialism was manner of restructuring are we talking about, is itself? Under you, you introduced SAP which objec- a settled issue, free market economy was a settled it regionalism or what? tive was diversification of the economy away from Do you think leadership is what is missing at that issue, not socialism, the federation was a settled issue, No. It is amazingly interesting if you check from dependency on oil to bring about inclusiveness, bring level? nobody will come and say that Nigeria is no longer a my findings, restructuring means different things to in more people and libralise the economy, Nigeria I think they should do more from my experience, federation. different people in this country. We don’t have a common is still grappling with the economy, struggling to they should do more interpretation, that’s a basic common problem that we keep the dollar stable which was one of the things When you say settled issue are you saying in another are going to have. What does it mean? We have not you wanted to do with SAP, stabilise forex, we are I’m not too sure much has been said in the role you way that it is not negotiable because seem to be defined it. The way I see it is what we started. Give the still where we were during your government, What played in midwifing the fourth republic. I recall in the refrain? people from the lowest to the highest level opportunity do you think is responsible for that and how can 1999 before democracy you were in the forefront Yea to determine how they are governed or in governance. Nigeria fix the economy beyond what some will of getting President Olusegun Obasanjo to take I will tell you a story, we had Reverend Adasu, may he describe as panic mode? over the helm of affairs, why was that necessary But some argue that it should be negotiable. That rest in Peace, I had an argument with him, he was a That’s the right word, I think panic mode. I think at the time and would you say you are impressed we should sit down at a table to decide whether we governor in Benue, one of the local governments was it is the consistency in the policy and say yes this is with the democratic trajectory that Nigeria has want to be one and if we want to go our separate NRC and he was SDP and he decided he was going to cut the right thing to do and keep it going and not to be found itself? ways, why not? his funding for the local government. The information swayed by other people’s opinion. If you believe in the If there is one Nigerian who passionately believes No. We decided to be one how many years ago, about got to me and I called him, he is a very good friend right thing, pursue it but keep on explaining it to the in Nigeria it is Olusegun Obasanjo, I give that to him. 50, 51 years ago and we have been in that position for of mine and I said Reverend come let’s talk. We sat people also, we insist in this because of this, maybe He believes very strongly in this country so it is easy the last 51 years, why should we keep on repeating down and I said why did you cut funding to the local one day they will get fed up and say go ahead and do for us to conclude that the person who takes over let’s sit down. You can have not less than five or 100 government? He said no because he was not in the it or become even more informed. must have the core belief, belief in the oneness and conferences in this country that Nigerians themselves same party. I said look, this man went round the local stability for the future development of the country sat down and talked about how to remain one , how government he campaigned and told people vote for What do you make of this administration’s handling so that is one reason we sold him to Nigerians. Then to work with the federating units in this country, how me I will provide for you. People accepted and based of the economy so far? he has the experience, he has seen it all, took part in to operate locally and so on. I think there are issues on that, it was on that basis they voted for him even if For the fact that it hasn’t collapsed, so I think they the war of keeping the country one, led the country we should not be talking about now. he is responsible, you promised them A, B, C D and it are trying to keep it moving? in political engineering and development 20 THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER AUGUST 7, 2021 INTERVIEW

My Relationship with Buhari is very Good

family was with me so when I asked there was no opposition whatsoever. Few months later we got married.

When you were President she came up with Better Life for Rural Women and that seem to have marked some kind of entry-point in women involvement in governance, tell us more about that? I think what went for her was that she worked with some of the best brains, women in this country and they were really committed to uplifting the status of women in the country some of them in the university, some in public service, they were always working, what do we do, how do we do it and that was the secret behind the success

Unfortunately you lost her in 2009, not just you but Nigeria a regal woman. How has it been since them, you didn’t even remarry why? The women don’t like my face ..laughs. Meanwhile I think it is not easy, that is the way I am

And you have four children together? Yea, very nice kids

A lot of people have described you as a great builder of men and women what exactly is the motive, was it to earn their loyalty because the Hiltop is some Mecca of sorts. Anybody who wants to become President sees it as a duty to visit you or consult you, whatever they want to be they think they need to consult you, what exactly is it about you Babangida that attracts people from everywhere? I feel comfortable wherever I am, whether in Minna or in Lagos and I quickly make friend and I But some will say that it is an attempt to assuage yes I heard that name before, why not. I have started That is where politics comes. Somebody will come don’t disown people, even those I don’t know very certain sections of the country because of the visualising a good Nigerian leader now and say APC made promises on three planks, well, I don’t disown them, I stick with them, I think events of the immediate past and the way of class Nigerians voted on three planks, economy, corruption that is the main reason. of 63 to which you belong to continue to have a Who is that? and security so it is for Nigerians to decide how these hold or grip on Nigeria? A person who travels in this country and had a friend have been met. How do you like to be remembered, what do you No. I think what was happening is that we always virtually everywhere he travels and he knows at least think is your legacy and before we round off, do believed that the person who must run the country must one person he can communicate with, a person who As a Nigerian what would you say? you have any regrets whether the role you played have the following antecedents; if he doesn’t believe is very vast in economy because of the development I would rather wait and see what the other party when you were President; have you had closure on in Nigeria, we wouldn’t look for him at all because we and then a good politician who should be able to talk how they react, if they convince me that they didn’t some of the things that seem to be a dark shadow wanted a Nigerian and this is what we continue saying, to Nigerians and so on. I have seen one or two or three succeed in this and they show me proofs, I will go over some great achievements that you scored even if we have a democratically elected Nigerian or already in their 60s for them , what are those? the militarily imposed, he must have that core belief, Regrets? belief in the country and experiences over the years You think that person should emerge in 2023? What is your relationship like with President in leadership, public service and the rest of them. I believe so if we could get him Muhamadu Buhari considering the fact that you Yes, what are those? were involved a coup that ousted him from power? Now having left office for the last 28 years I don’t Are you impressed with our democracy so far, is it So what do you think about these irredentist Our relationship is still very good and I am happy think that come to think of it I think we were right delivering and I also want to know the role you are sentiments coming not only from the South we relate good but the seeming bad relationship was here. A lot of things are happening and those things playing in the PDP. The PDP held on to power for 16 East but also from the South West? The general the creation of your people the media convince me that after all we didn’t do badly maybe years and you are one of the founding fathers and situation with Nnamdi Kanu and Sunday those things we were not understood, for example many are saying with this administration Nigeria who have been championing the course of their Let’s talk about the media during your time there you mentioned SAP, I told Nigerians in 1986 when seem to be moving towards one-party state people, what’s your thought s about that? was this seeming no love lost relationship between we were introducing SAP that people who take I know that Nigerians will not allow that to happen, Well my thoughts are it is always good to agitate the media and your administration and we seem to advantage of what we were trying to do will succeed they will make so much noise that whoever attempts but because there is this belief that this country should find ourselves in the same situation. You abrogated in life but those who can’t will go under. I said that to do that will not do it, this is the good thing about be one, when they make the noise they will find out Decree 2 and Decree 4 fair enough but today the in 1986 and today I was proved right; people took this country, they will talk they will demonstrate they that it won’t get support because Nigerians don’t media is contending with another decree 2 and advantage of what we did and today they are the will engage you in all sorts of things so as not to do generally believe on anything that will disturb their 4 in another guise, the Press Council bill that has powers of industry, economic gurus and they were the wrong thing. peace of mind just been thrown out but there is an attempt to provided an environment to say what you want, when stifle the media in the eye of the media. What is you want and how you want it and you don’t get shot Are you still in partisan politics, are you still involved The DSS has been in the eye of the storm and you it that makes government fear the media? or locked up in prison so I think I made a contribution in PDP as an opposition party? created so many institutions, DSS, NDE and so I didn’t fear the media, I libralised you, don’t forget. in society in order to make the society better No many and the Intelligence agencies like the NIA, Today you have private televisions, private newspapers DSS of course were supposed to help address the and so on so I have no fear with the media I believe June 12 has been declared a Public Holiday in honour Why sir? problems of insecurity and all that. The DSS has they are an essential part of the society and they of MKO Abiola but it hasn’t been given closure I am an elder statesman now evolved from that and seem to have a mind of its should play the role for the society so I have no fear so Nigerians still want to know what happened, own not to obey court orders , what do you make of the media whatsoever they talk about a cabal that figuratively had a Let’s talk about 2023, so much has been said of today security service? gun to your head to annul June 12, that you also about giving a sense of belonging to every part Well I think they are fairly well trained and as far as What do you make of the seeming attempt to were a victim of June 12? of the country including the South East. Many are flouting court orders are concerned, I don’t think it is clamp down on the media by this administration? You want me to be honest with you? If it mate- saying come 2023 because of the perception that the right thing for them to do. They should obey court The media and the public will not allow that to rialised there would have been a coup detat which the South East has not had a fair share of being orders, that’s why we ought to have strong institutions happen and it is even silly to start trying clipping would have been violent, that’s all I can confirm. at the helm of affairs, what are your thoughts on but institutions that obey the due process, I don’t them. I said Nigerians are very wonderful people , It didn’t happen thanks to the engineering. The power shifting to the South East or the need for share their flouting of court orders at all you cannot intimidate them Maradonic way we handled you guys in the society it to shift to the South East? but that could have given room for more instability Well, we have to make a choice either we have to Speaking of strong institutions the EFCC is one of Let’s talk about you; you turned 80. You got married in the country. practice democracy the way it has to be practiced or the strong institutions that was set up to tackle in 1969 and barely five months you went back to the Was the tension within the military or outside the way it is being practiced or we define democracy corruption and they are having question marks on war front, what made you do that and why Mariam because… with our own whims and caprices. If we are going to the issue of fighting corruption to standstill, how Babangida then Mariam Okogwu was your choice? Both. The military they can do it because they do it the way it is done all over the world you allow the do you feel when you hear from certain quarter Okay. The story was this , in 1969 I was wounded in have the weapons to do it but the other society process to continue because it is through the process that under your administration corruption actually Uzuakoli, in Abia so I was lucky I was flown to Lagos members will agitate that you will be able to come out with a candidate thrived; is that a fair assessment? same day which was unusual but God is kind and General that will lead the country, his qualifications, beliefs Well you can’t compare it with the fact on the ground Gowon got married around that period, April-May Are you still the evil genius, did you call yourself should be known to Nigerians before somebody ever now. From what I read, from analysis, I think we are and here was my Commander in Chief and I was very that? throws his hat into the ring regardless of where he saints when compared to what is happening under impressed the way the marriage was going. The first No I never did , the media did comes from. a democratic dispensation. I sacked a governor for thing that struck me was when I was on hospital bed, I misappropriating less than N313,000, today billions said why the hell, I could have been dead so I wouldn’t People call you Maradona, what’s that all about? Are you saying that Nigeria now should jettison are there in the streets, those who have stolen billion be a married man just like my commander so I made That’s a very good thing about Nigerians media the idea of zoning or power shift? and are in courts and are now parading themselves up my mind I will get married immediately I get out and people. You have to anticipate them and if you Whether we do it now or we will have to do it. Time in the streets so who is better in fighting corruption? of this hospital bed and God was kind I got well so anticipate them you live very well with them. I marvel will come when someone will emerge in this country getting married became my first priority, that’s it at that contradiction, you can’t be evil and a genius whether he is from Okpella or from Minna the thing What is your assessment of this administration’s so you have to make up what you think is evil genius. is he is known, everybody knows him and everybody war on corruption because one of the three major And you met her? Maradona I got it again from the definition of the thinks we should accept what his beliefs are and then planks upon which it came to power was anticor- I knew her before I got wounded. I was very frequent media, they said deft political moves, that’s what the if he throws his hat into the ring and people will say ruption? to their house and her brothers, cousins and whole media described it. THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER AUGUST 7, 2021 21 IMAGES Faces at a recent reception hosted in Lagos by Ansar-Ud-Deen High School, Surulere, Lagos Old Students’ Association (AHOSA) for their ex-classmate Mr. Segun Balogun to mark his 60th birthday and retirement.

Celebrant, Mr. Balogun and wife, Olufunmilayo surrounded by Senior Members of AHOSA at the reception

L-R: Mrs. Lateef-Yusuf Mary and Mr. Olorunoje Taslim L-R: Ms. Temilade Olakuleyin and Alhaji Sulaiman Agbomeji R-L: Mr. Ojo Oluwafemi and Alhaja Abisoye Idiat Fagbayi Oladipo

L-R: Mr. Anwoju Olumuyiwa and Mrs. Olufunmilayo Oduwale R–L: Alhaja Jayeola Fujah-Ogunwolu and Mr. Benjamin Sunday

L-:R Hamzat Anwoju and Mrs. Funke Owoyemi (LASACO Assistant Director, National Insurance Commission, Mr. L-R: Mr. Tony Aletor and Mr. Tope Smart Assurance Plc) Gbenga Jayesinmi

Mr. Akinwale Sofile and wife, Bosede L-R: Mr. Razaq Abiodun and wife, Mrs. Taiwo Abiodun L-R: Mrs. Bola Fahm and Mrs. Yomi Salami 22 THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER AUGUST 7, 2021 THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER AUGUST 7, 2021 23 24 THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER AUGUST 7, 2021 SUPER SATURDAY Ernest Obi I Used to Be Very Temperamental, Emotional Before I Met My Wife Veteran in every sense of the word aptly fits Ernest Obi as an actor, director and producer in the world of film and theatre. For over 30 years, Ernest has been doing what he knows how to do best on stage and screen, and it is no surprise that he has outlived his craft in that he cuts across both the ‘old’ and the ‘new’ Nollywood. Growing up Ernest was addicted to film and television so much that he was intrigued by the art itself. Little wonder he describes his entire life as film. He shares more in this conversation with Ferdinand Ekechukwu, talking about his craft, family, and career as he sets out on a location

hat set are you currently on? It’s a Rok movie, produced by one of their top produc- ers. The location is in Enugu, it’s a family story; a very emotional family story.W It’s about strife and pain, and as usual the resolution at the end of the day, good. Our people don’t like tragedy, so you must resolve it well. Africans are not very good in handling tragedy, that’s starts from the beginning and end. Enugu, Asaba appear quite a veritable space for you to operate from; you don’t quite seem to consider much of Lagos anymore? The thing about it is that you work where you can express yourself better. Lagos has now become the home for many and most of the movies shot in Lagos are basically maybe conventional stories of love and all that, which we also Àlm in the east. So, it’s not just Asaba, Enugu, Owerri, and that axis. So if I want to do like a real village story, or an epic story, I can’t do that in Lagos because there’s no space for that in Lagos. I like to tell a lot of traditional stories, not necessarily epic but I do a lot of traditional stories, family stories that have a background of the local community. So I think that’s why the east is viable. The last movie I shot anyway was in Ibadan. That’s Yemoja, I shot Yemoja in Ibadan. So it’s not just about the east. I can Àlm anywhere. But the work space has to match the story I have. Looking at your works; they are not often seen on the big screen. And to some people who only follow Nollywood via the cinemas, your name rarely pops-up and it now appear as if you have been R;WKHVFUHHQIRUDZKLOH" Let me put it this way; I have been doing this since about 30 years plus. And the very dedicated Àlmmakers or Àlm watch- ers or viewers know what I do. And in comparison, the percentage of people who do cinema and the percentage of people who watch the original home video is like 70-80% compared to cinema. If you ask yourself where’s the bulk of the cinema? It’s in Lagos, maybe one or two in . Enugu is not really a very key place to do cinema. And some other places, maybe Abuja. So, but Lagos, concentration is on Lagos. Maybe if you say they don’t know, I don’t know if I will agree with that (laughs). But I don’t do cinema if it’s not necessary. And again story matters for me. I like to do or shoot movies that will challenge me. I don’t want to Àlm for Àlm sake. I have gotten one or two scripts and I wasn’t too comfortable with the stories. They were slap. And I told them, I said ‘I can’t go to the cinema with something like this just because I want to add my name in the cinema. So, maybe when the time comes. But I have done or two that were Ernest Obi THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER AUGUST 7, 2021 25 SUPER SATURDAY My Life is Film; My Entire Life is Film

aired in cinemas in the UK… That was a come into it because you heard that you year ago or so. can make money, they have Àne girls or I like this actor so I want to be working with Let’s talk about your career trajectory. him. That’s for the wrong reasons; let me You set out studying Dramatic Arts? put it that way. You would have issues. Yes I did. So it’s not about that. I have met people when I was really doing stage then there’s And by that at that point you already this great director, Bayo Oduneye. And GHÀQHGDFDUHHUSDWKIRU\RXUVHOI:DV Uncle B brought a young man who came WKHUHDQ\VHFRQGWKRXJKWDORQJWKHOLQHRI for his audition he had his Post Graduate \RXUFDUHHUPD\EHIURP\RXUSDUHQWVWKDW in Theatre Arts… a PhD and he could not you ought to have been doing something act to save his own life. He could not act HOVHLQVWHDGRIDFWLQJ" but he was so educated but he could not Not just my parents, my entire family Àt in. And Uncle B then said ‘I will use (laughing). My entire family! Everybody you as a masquerade’ because that’s the felt I should be doing something else. They only thing he can because his face will be thought I should be doing something else covered and he will stand in one spot and be and not Àlm. Growing up I was addicted ‘crooning’. So it’s not about how educated to Àlm, I was addicted to the television. as you are in drama or Àlm school or what I was intrigued by the art itself. And your degrees are. It’s applicable in every my family knew that. And so when the Àeld if you are not passionate. transition into acting came, they were not shocked. But it wasn’t something

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CHARITY A WEEKLY PULL-OUT 07. 08.2021 PAGE. 29 TOKYO 2020 OLYMPICS

Blessing Oborududu A Golden Silver 28 THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER AUGUST 7, 2021 GLOBAL SOCCER

Blessing Oborududu A Golden Silver

Blessing Ogborodudu sizes up her opponent Before the start of Tokyo Olympics if there was one sport that Nigerians were hoping for a gold medal it’s in wrestling which had eluded the country since Atlanta ’96. But while all eyes are in the direction of African number one wrestling sensation Odunayo Adekuoroye for the expected gold, it was 32-year-old Blessing Obordudu that climbed the podium with a ‘golden silver’ on her neck “Nigerian wrestling is special because lessing Oborududu won continental event for London 2012, the 10-12 years.” we always want to win, we want to be Olympic Games’ silver first of her three Olympic appearances. At the 2018 Commonwealth Games, number one in the world, number two medal in the women’s After Commonwealth gold and 10 the 34-year-old finally won the gold at worst. And our president Igali, is freestyle 68kg, the first African titles, the 30-year-old wants that had eluded her in two previous an Olympic champion. And when he by a Nigerian wrestler to leave a mark at Tokyo 2020. attempts. told us about himself and how he won in history. As Oborududu made great strides Oborududu held on for a slim 4-3 it, that is what every wrestler wishes BThe 32-year-old won the Tokyo 2020 in her career she met some opposition victory over her Canadian opponent for, be in the Olympics and to win,” silver medal on Tuesday in her third at home, while some people around Danielle Lappage. she said. appearance at the Olympics since 2012 her doubted her potential. She strode around the mat in a de- “Sometimes when we watch the in London. Her parents were against their lirium of joy, rolling down, kissing the Olympic video of our president Daniel Oborududu announced herself to the daughter practicing the combat sport, mat, and praying. Igali, how he received his medal, how wrestling world in 2007 when she was regardless of Nigeria’s rich tradition She then ran off to one of her coaches he was crying. You know everything invited to join Nigeria’s team for the of wrestling. who carried her around the mat as they that happened at the Olympics, that African Games. She was unrivalled in “When I was growing, my parents celebrated her biggest career win then. is our desire, we want to be like him. secondary school, where she started used to tell me wrestling is for boys That celebration went viral. Everybody in the team wants to be wrestling, and quickly caught the at- and not for girls,” she recalled in an “I didn’t plan it. The moment I knew Olympic champion.” tention of the Bayelsa government, a interview with Olympic Channel. I won gold, the joy. The joy of winning The final against Tamyra Mensah- Southern state in Nigeria, that invited “But when I saw female wrestlers a gold medal… I didn’t know how to Stock could be the last time we will her for the prestigious National Sports shining in the sport and traveling express myself. That is why I rolled on see Blessing Oborududu grappling Festival. outside the country, I said I want to the ground and I said, ‘God I give you on the mat. Two years later, she cemented her be traveling like them, I want to do the glory for making this possible for “I think this Olympics will be my last position in the National Wrestling team this thing [wrestling].” me.’ That was special. I never imagined Olympics,” she said upon qualification and has maintained the spot, being a Even as she became a household that moment,” she said. for Tokyo 2020. regular in continental tournaments. name in Nigerian wrestling, it took Officially, Oborududu is the first After three Olympics, her first being “My first medal was a bronze in some convincing to show her potential. Nigerian to win an Olympic medal in the London 2012 Games, she had set 2009,” she told Olympic Channel while “A lot of people would see me and wrestling. But another Nigerian had herself a target of clinching a medal at competing at the 2019 African Games tell [me], ‘you are not a wrestler; you in fact won gold at the Olympics, 21 the World championships or Olympics. in Rabat. don’t look like one.’” years ago. With that done, the Business Admin- “And then 2010, I started winning, But her coaches encouraged her, and Daniel Igali, who also hails from istration graduate now plans to retire then every other African championship she also believed in her ability. , won 69kg freestyle gold after her long career, but she might stay I win gold, gold, gold…All African “I kept doing it for me and my at Sydney 2000. heavily involved in Nigerian wrestling. Games gold, gold, gold…” coaches. They believed. Whenever I He won in it for Canada. Igali She remains a role model for many She dominated 59kg, was unrivalled went to the Worlds, Olympics they switched nationality in 1998, and is the Nigerian girls looking to take up in the 63kg, before stepping up to her always encouraged me that, ‘Blessing current president of Nigerian Wrestling wrestling.” current 68kg, winning a record 10 Af- the best is yet to come. You just need Federation and is Oborududu’s idol. However, after winning the medal, rican titles across the weights. to focus, because you are strong, you In fact, Igali’s Olympic moment has she appears to be making a U-turn. Oborududu has won all African titles are young, you can make it’. This is been a huge source of inspiration for According to her, it might not be the apart from 2012 when she skipped the what has kept me going for the past the former world number two. end just yet. THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER AUGUST 7, 2021 29 GLOBAL SOCCER Rodgers, Guardiola Begin Season’s Rivalry as Leicester, City Battle for Community Shield Leicester City and Manchester City will today at Wembley Stadium clash in the 2021/22 season curtain-raiser as they compete for the Community Shield, courtesy of Brendan Rodgers Foxes FA Cup victory and Pep Guardiola’s Citizens Premier League title glory last season. Those triumphs earn both managers another crack at silverware today. While the Shield may have little bearing on the upcoming season overall, it never hurts to get off to a winning start to build momentum

ment that means you are going to be competitive,” Rodgers said of Man City’s spending. “We know the level in the Premier League but it doesn’t stop us compet- ing,” added the Northern Irishman. City has won the shield six times previously, from 12 appearances, and most recently in 2019. Leicester’s 1-0 FA Cup win was the club’s first in their history but today will be a third appearance in the curtain-raiser. Both sides will be keen to start the campaign with some silverware, even if the match will be lacking some of the big guns yet to return after a busy summer of international football. “It’s a fantastic game for us. It means we won the FA Cup,” said Rodgers, who lost French defender Wesley Fofana to injury on Wednesday. “It’s a wonderful occasion and there’s something there at the end of it.” Only 20,000 spectators were allowed into Wembley for the FA Cup final but today offers the chance for many more fans to enjoy a day out at the stadium, with a capacity crowd and Leicester allocated 26,639 tickets, of which City has been allocated 26,602. Kane remains a leading target for the Citizens, and it will be fascinating to see whether the Manchester giants manage to sign both players before the end of the window. Leicester will be missing Timothy Castagne, James Justin and Jonny Evans this weekend through injury, while Wesley Fofana suffered a fractured fibula during the pre-season clash with Villarreal on Wednesday, meaning that the centre-back’s 2021-22 campaign is now in doubt. Leicester City stricker, Kelechi Ihenacho watched by Manchester City’s duo of Phil Foden and Aymeric Laporte There is a chance that Wilfred Ndidi could be pressed into action alongside Soyuncu at the back, with Ricardo Pereira and Bertrand lining up in the FA Cup winners Leicester City and their first two to Burton Albion and air. Premier League champions Manchester Wycombe Wanderers on July 24 and full-back positions. Pep Guardiola’s side, who closed in Kelechi Iheanacho could be given City will lock horns in the Community July 28 respectively before ending last on a £100m deal for Jack Grealish, have Shield at Wembley this evening. month with a 3-3 draw against Queens the nod alongside Jamie Vardy as part only been involved in three pre-season of a front two, with Daka starting on Leicester secured their first ever FA Park Rangers. matches this summer, opening their Cup trophy last season courtesy of a 1-0 The Foxes finished their preparations the bench, while Barnes and Youri preparations on July 27 with a 2-0 Tielemans are also in line to feature for victory over Chelsea in the final on May for the new campaign with a 3-2 victory victory over Preston North End before 15, while Manchester City ultimately over Villarreal on Wednesday, though, the Foxes. putting four unanswered goals past Man City, meanwhile, had Ferran finished 12 points clear of second-place with Caglar Soyuncu, Harvey Barnes Barnsley last weekend. Manchester United at the top of the and Ayoze Perez on the scoresheet. Torres back in pre-season training on Man City then recorded a 4-1 win Wednesday following his involvement 2020-21 Premier League table to reclaim Rodgers’s side have managed to over Blackpool on Tuesday evening and the title from Liverpool. bring in Patson Daka, Boubakary in Euro 2020, while fellow Spain inter- will view today’s contest as a valuable national Rodri was also present during The 2020-21 campaign will forever be Soumare and Ryan Bertrand this exercise with the new Premier League remembered in the history of Leicester, summer, and more new additions the same session. season just around the corner. The Citizens will still be missing a as the Foxes won the FA Cup for the are expected before the transfer Leicester City could be facing the first time, but the season ended in window closes. number of key players, though, with the Premier League’s first 100 million likes of Ederson, John Stones, Kevin De disappointment in terms of the Premier Man City, meanwhile, are bidding pound player which could just be League, with a 4-2 loss to Tottenham to win the Community Shield for Bruyne, Raheem Sterling and Gabriel added motivation for Rodgers. Jesus all unavailable for selection. Hotspur on the final day seeing them the seventh time, having previously Media reports have suggested Guar- drop out of the top four. lifted this particular trophy in 1937, Zack Steffen s set to start between the diola could give the England playmaker sticks, while there are likely to be spots Brendan Rodgers’ side ultimately fin- 1968, 1972, 2012, 2018 and 2019. a first outing in the curtain-raiser to the ished fifth last term, meaning that they The Citizens proved to be too in the first XI for Cole Palmer and Sam season. Edozie, who have impressed for the will play in the Europa League again strong for the rest of the competition The Foxes upset Chelsea 1-0 at the this season, rather than the Champions in last season’s Premier League and English champions during pre-season. stadium in May to win the FA Cup for Bernardo Silva continues to be linked League, which looked to be a strong will be looking to make the perfect the first time and has shown money is possibility for long spells. start to the new campaign when they with a move away from the Etihad not everything. Stadium, but the Portugal international Leicester have now reset for the new travel to Tottenham Hotspur in their “You can look at it two ways and season, and they have been involved opener on August 15, with Harry could feature in the final third of the think you can never compete or you try field alongside Riyad Mahrez. in four friendlies this summer, losing Kane’s future still very much up in the and create a culture and an environ- 30 THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER AUGUST 7, 2021 GLOBAL SOCCER

Nigeria’s 4*400m quartet of Clement Chukwu, Jude Monye, Sunday Bada and Enefiok Odo-Obong Messi 21 Years after Sydney Olympics Nigeria’s 4x400m What Next for Messi ? “Messi shall not be staying”. Relay Team Wants a Gold Medal Ceremony The statement, released by Barcelona just before 8pm Spanish time on Thursday, was unequivocal and shocked the world of football. Former Nigeria sprinter Nigeria’s 4x400m men’s relay himself in check, admitting that The 34-year-old Argentine, a free agent since 1 July, had been set to sign a new Enefiok Udo-Obong said the team won silver on the night the USA could have brought deal to extend his 21-year stay at the Nou Camp. 4x400m relay team that won in Sydney in 2000, and were any of their talents and won Barca said the contract was due to be signed on Thursday, but the Spanish silver in Sydney 21 years ago, delighted at the time, coming the races fair and square. league’s “financial and structural obstacles” scuppered that. which has since been upgraded second as they did to the great He said: “When we started So what now for the six-time Ballon d’Or winner? Is this really the end of Messi to gold, had their moment of Michael Johnson. John Giles hearing news about how there at Barca, or is there set to be one final twist? glory ‘stolen’ by the USA. - PA Images/PA Images via was discrepancies in testing of Earlier this month, Spanish football writer Guillem Balague revealed Messi The American team, led by Getty Images some of the American runners, had agreed a deal until 2026 that included reducing his wages to half of his Michael Johnson, won gold on Looking back, Udo-Obong I started to think, ‘Oh, what if?’ previous salary. the day but doping violations concedes that Johnson’s team “But I had to keep myself But Barca needed to sell players to fund the deal - reducing their wage bill by revealed in subsequent years was superior on the night, and in check because I don’t like to about 200m euros (£172m) to meet La Liga’s Financial Fair Play (FFP) require- saw the gold change hands to as their wild celebrations im- deceive myself. The Americans ments - and are yet to achieve this. Antoine Griezmann, Ousmane Dembele and Nigeria. Although the African mediately after the race showed, could have brought any of their Philippe Coutinho - among others - remain on their books. Speaking on BBC team have since received their the Nigerians were ecstatic with top 16 athletes and probably Radio 5 Live’s Football Daily, Balague said: “Barca had to find a creative way medals, albeit 14 years later, they the silver medal they had won. would have won the gold. to pay Messi’s wages, bonuses and signing on fee and every time I asked them want to stand in front of the Johnson, who picked up “That’s how talented their pool ‘how are you going to do that when you can’t register new players you signed world and hear their anthem the baton in the final leg of of quarter milers are from the on a free?’ the answer was ‘just trust us’. “The message from Messi’s side was played. the race, opened up such a college level to the international ‘hang on, just wait’. Laporta [Barca president] was optimistic, Messi’s side less Enefiok Udo-Obong, who wide gap it was impossible level. They were actually the king optimistic. But not one single time was it said to be impossible. ran a blistering final leg in the to do anything but fight for of the sprints. So, we didn’t feel “Now it has been confirmed that there is no possible economical way for this final for Nigeria in Australia, second. Udo-Obong stretched hard done by even when the to happen. But I don’t think it is the end of the story.” told ESPN: “It’s a feeling that his every last sinew to close a stories were coming out.” The club’s financial situation is “exceptionally critical”, says Radio Catalunya’s was stolen from us. 10m gap and sneak home for Antonio Pettigrew, Alvin and Ernest Macia. “We raised that issue when a silver medal, ahead of two Calvin Harrison, and Michael He told BBC World Service: “Many people are still trying to imagine how life we had the Athletes Forum in Caribbean nations. Johnson won gold in Sydney. will be after Messi because nobody had imagined this three days ago. Switzerland, with the IOC, and “Winning the silver was an Of the four, only Johnson has “In fact, we heard some voices in the club, even president Joan Laporta, saying it is one of the things that we extraordinary thing,” Udo- never been implicated in dop- that Messi would stay. There was already a contract there to be signed, a contract feel should be given back to the Obong said. “It was a feat we ing violations. Mike Powell / was already written. athletes because that moment of were so proud of and I would Allsport “In their statement it seems that Barcelona and Messi agree - they are on the pride cannot really be replaced. have happily lived with that. The Nigerian was right to same side. Instead it seems the financial situation of the club, regulations of La “Standing in front of the “It was a rare feat, something be cautious. USATF appealed Liga... and the bottom line was not meeting the FFP regulations.” world with a billion viewers we had worked hard for. It’s the decision and a year later, Stop writing the obituaries, shelve those plans for a grand farewell... as dramatic watching you... That was one something that we felt, ‘Okay, the Court of Arbitration for as it seems, Barca’s announcement does not definitely mean Messi is leaving. of the things I wanted to enjoy fine. We’re second best in the Sport ruled in their favour, Not yet, anyway. and I didn’t enjoy that. world at that point in time.’ upholding their argument In fact, rather than being a final and definitive statement it is actually a very “That’s the kind of feeling I It was bold enough for us.” that the Young did not run risky tactical move in the club’s powerplay with La Liga, whose salary cap would have used to influence But then, in 2004, the IAAF in the finals and so the team regulations are preventing Messi and Barca from signing the new contract the other younger ones, especially ruled that Jerome Young, a should not be disqualified club claim they have both agreed. in my continent and in my member of the USA team in on the basis of his drug use. The backdrop is Barca’s crippling financial situation and their connected ongoing country. I didn’t have that the semifinals, was ineligible And then three years later desire to form a European Super League, which club president Joan Laporta has experience, or I didn’t have to run due to doping offenses in 2008, Antonio Pettigrew continued to pursue along with his Real Madrid counterpart Florentino Perez. that opportunity to do so. and stripped the USA of their [who did run in that final and Crucially, La Liga has just announced a major new deal with investment fund “We are hoping that doping medal, moving everyone else died in 2010], admitted that he CVC, which would immediately hand Barca about £200m - enough to re-sign Messi. will stop but even when it up one place. had taken performance enhanc- To receive that, however, the club would have to sign a long-term commitment to doesn’t, people who are clean It was almost too good to ing drugs under the direction La Liga, renouncing the idea of a Super League. And minutes after Barca’s state- must have a way to regain that be true, and Udo-Obong did of now-banned Track and Field ment, Real Madrid released their own, saying the CVC deal was done “without honour which they lost.” everything he could to keep coach Trevor Graham. the involvement or knowledge” of the club and saying they cannot support the venture. Laporta is saying to La Liga president Javier Tebas: ‘Well, let’s see what your new investment fund partner makes of a league without Messi. Your move.’ What that move will be... who knows? But this multi-billion-dollar game of chess is not over. Laporta has called ‘check’. But it’s not necessarily ‘checkmate’. UEFA Super Cup Final Live on DStv, GOtv It was just a year ago that Messi said he wanted to exercise a clause in his contract The 46th edition of the UEFA Chelsea, meanwhile, will great final performances to help to leave on a free transfer, but Barca said a 700m euros (£624m) fee had to be paid. Super Cup will see UEFA want to keep up the momentum Chelsea defeat Manchester City Now there are no such restrictions. Champions League winners they built under coach Thomas in the UEFA Champions League He has long been linked with a reunion with former Barca boss Pep Guardiola Chelsea take on UEFA Europa Tuchel. Winning the UEFA back in May. While Nigerian at Manchester City. But with City having signed Jack Grealish for a British record League winners Villarreal at Champions League seemed winger, Samuel Chukwueze £100m, and being linked with a big-money move for Tottenham striker Harry Windsor Park in Belfast on an unlikely outcome when is Villarreal’s most creative Kane, Balague does not think the Premier League champions “have the financial Wednesday, 11 August 2021 the German manager joined and effective attacking player, viability to get Messi”. at 8pm on SuperSport Premier them midway through last using his pace and trickery to Man City sign £100m Grealish from Villa League (DStv channel 203) and season, but the challenge devastating effect down either England midfielder Jack Grealish joins Manchester City from Aston Villa for a SuperSport Football (DStv chan- now is to keep up their flank. British record transfer fee of £100m. He told BBC Radio 5 Live: “It’s not like getting nel 205 and GOtv channel 31). level of performance across It’s also expected to be a someone who will earn, say, 50m euros. Whatever it is, you have to double it. Villarreal were surprise win- all competitions for a whole classic midfield battle between But you also have to pay a signing-on fee, that could be 50-60-70m. It’s a signing ners of the UEFA Europa League campaign. Etienne Capoue and Villarreal’s from another club almost. last term, but the Spanish side is This is going to be a match Jorginho with the former hoping “So from that point of view I don’t think City have got the finances now, and looking to build on their success to look forward to as this will to give Villarreal a foothold in we all suspect it has to be Paris St-Germain next.” French football expert Julien and will use this clash against be the first meeting between the middle of the park, while Laurens added: “I still think Barca are bluffing. From a PSG point of view and continental champions Chelsea Chelsea and Villarreal. Both Jorginho will be focused on what they have said over the last year is that if Messi becomes available, and as a yard-stick to measure their teams have got interesting keeping Chelsea ticking over is interested, then they believe they have got enough in bank and resources to progress ahead of competing in players starting with Chelsea’s with his efficient passing. Vil- make that deal happen. “The outcome may be he still stays, but they will repeat to Messi family that they hope for something if he wanted to join PSG.” the UEFA Champions League N’Golo Kante. The French mid- larreal’s new Senegalese signing this term. fielder put in one of the all-time Boulaye Dia. THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER AUGUST 7, 2021 31 GLOBAL SOCCER

in these negotiations is Champions League football. The 25-year-old goal poacher revealed his intention of featuring for the Super Eagles at senior level and has turned his back on England to play international football for Nigeria. Born and raised in the European country, Akpom has represented England at every youth level be- tween U-16 and U-21, featuring 41 times and scoring 18 goals. However, Akpom disclosed he was swapping allegiances permanently, after giving the issue a great deal of thought. “I’ve only just recently switched my allegiance, so I’ve signed the documents and hopefully in the next few weeks it will be approved to enable me to play for Nigeria,” he told BBC Sport. “I’ve been wanting to do that for many years now but not many people know this. It’s just been a matter of sorting it out, which is now in a process. I’m looking forward to it. It was a personal decision. I’m Nigerian and my whole family feels very Nigerian and it will be nice to represent Nigeria.” Akpom had trained with Gernot Rohr’s men at Barnet in March 2017, and he is excited with the prospect of linking up his childhood friend, Alex Iwobi. “It will also be nice to link up with Alex Iwobi again and play for the national team. We started playing when we were younger together and to make that step to play for the national team together will be amaz- ing,” he continued. “I wasn’t surprised because at the time he wasn’t playing for England, he came out of nowhere and he started playing for Arsenal and from there he just progressed, so I wasn’t surprised when he picked to play for Nigeria. “It was the better decision to make, now he’s played in the World Cup and the Africa Cup of Nations. I’ve always said that I’d like to play with him again for Nigeria, we’ve always spoke about that. “We’ve played together since we Chuba Akpom were five and six years old, we grew up together. It took me a while to settle down and to get used to the environ- ment in Greece. Going to play abroad and in another league has helped me, but I hope to take my career to the next level with Nigeria.” Can Boro Ward off Before joining the Greek Super League outfit, the 25-year-old was sent on loan at Brentford, Coventry City, Nottingham Forrest, Hull City, Brighton & Hove Albion, and Sint- Truiden following his inability to get regular action at his boyhood club, Besiktas’ Interest? Arsenal. mid speculation linking Turkish Super Lig club Besiktas, will champions Besiktas have submitted Chuba Akpom with have to meet their asking price for an offer to English Championship a possible move to the 25-year-old. club for Akpom. GLOBAL SOCCER Besiktas in the sum- In quotes relayed by Teesside He was also linked to Besiktas last ASSISTANT EDITOR mer transfer window, Live, Warnock said when quizzed season and according to Fotomac, KUNLE ADEWALE Middlesbrough boss on Akpom’s future: “At the mo- they have now made a first formal Neil Warnock has provided an update ment we’ve only got him and bid for the striker, who returned THISDAY ON SATURDAY A EDITOR on the future of Super Eagles hopeful. Uche. to England last summer from Warnock has yet to give the green “I think everybody knows if PAOK of Greece. YEMI ADEBOWALE DEPUTY EDITOR light to Akpom leaving the club the right offer comes in we’d He cost Middlesbrough three AHAMIFULA OGBU because he feels that he does not consider that but at the same million Euros. have enough experienced strikers time we are still looking at other Last season, Akpom scored THISDAY NEWSPAPERS on his roster ahead of the new forwards. five goals and made four as- Championship season. “I know Crooksy can go up sists in 42 appearances for EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN Should the former Arsenal star there but we need another cou- ‘Boro. NDUKA OBAIGBENA

move on to new pastures without ple of strikers there. If Duncan Besiktas want the striker on a MANAGING DIRECTOR Boro signing a replacement, War- gets injured, we’re short.” season-long loan during which they ENIOLA BELLO nock would be left with only Uche Akpom scored five goals and hope to showcase him on the UEFA Ikpeazu as the senior striker in the assisted two others in 39 outings Champions League shop window DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR squad. for Middlesbrough over the so as to shore up his transfer market ISRAEL IWEGBU Warnock has indicated that who- course of the 2020-2021 campaign. valuation. ever wants to sign Akpom, including Media reports in Turkey said The report said Besiktas trump card 32 THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER AUGUST 7, 2021 POLITY Igbonine Debuts for Advancement of Ndigbo

Sam Ekpe

t is appropriate that this year, which marks the 40th anniversary of the establishment of Ohaneze Ndigbo, we should take stock of the achievements of the socio cultural organization and its many ‘children’ which are contributing their various endeavours to enhance the progress and development of one of the most enterprising races in the world. As the late Ikemba Emeka Ojukwu, Ezeigbo gburugbum Iwould say, “because I am involved”, I tell the Ohaneze founda- tion story since my humble self was the courier of correspon- dences among the founding fathers of the organization at incep- tion. I recall with nostalgia the early days of the organization, the mission and vision of its founding fathers, its role over the years and the birth of its latest child, Igbonine on 21st June 2021. Ohaneze Ndigbo was established in 1981, as a regular meeting point for political, traditional, religious and business leaders of Ndigbo, in order to forge unity of purpose and sense of direction for the present South East political zone in the affairs of Nigeria. The initiator was the Rt. Hon. Dr. Kingsley Ozuomba Mbadiwe, Agadagbachiriuzo, the then Special Adviser to President Shehu Shagari in the Second Republic, (1979 – 1983). I had the honour and priviledge to serve as his Public Relations Officer during the period. L-R: The President General, Igbonine, High Chief Emeka Okonkwo; Senator Abaribe; and Prof. Kingsley Muoghalu at the inauguration Eight prominent Igbo personalities were the foundation of Igbonine members of the new association. They were Dr. K.O. Mbadiwe himself, Dr. , Dr. M. I Okpara, Chief Dennis ters at No. 25 Vosan Street Independence Layout, Enugu and a tagged terrorists, hounded and killed. Osadebay, Chief M.N Ugochukwu, Justice H.U. Kaine, Dr. regional office in Owerri. He further observed that Ndigbo had been pushed to the , who hosted the inaugural meeting at his Unwana Its goals include to foster unity of Ndigbo at home and in fringes of the Nigeria Society and that denying them the Afikpo residence and Chief Jerome Udoji who served as the first the diaspora, build prosperity through creative innovation Presidency of the country in 2023 will be very unfair and Secretary General. Dr. Azikiwe could not attend the meeting and excellence, promote Igbo language and culture, promote unjust, He recommended restructuring as the only solution personally but wished it well as he was said to be convalescing security and safety and work in synergy with Ohaneze Ndigbo, to the country’s political, social and economic problems. in his Opanda Resort near his Nsukka residence. the apex Igbo umbrella and other Igbo organizations and also The guest speaker, Prof. Kingsley Moghalu, a former Deputy Chief Dennis Osadebay could also not attend as he was con- collaborate with other ethnic groups in Nigeria, promote credible Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, speaking on the topic fined to his Asaba residence following a car accident. That was public leadership and good governance and also promote the ‘Igbos, what do we want’ regretted that the Igbos are disputably the first time I heard of the name, Opanda. Dr. Mbadiwe himself formation and implementation of effective public policies. the largest ethnic group in Nigeria but are now called minority. gave the name Ohaneze to the new association. The correspon- The organization is non-partisan and has no affiliation to any He observed that the Old Eastern Region was the fastest growing dences on this vital issue are available for easy verification. political party in Nigeria or elsewhere. Igbonine is a product of the economy in the world in 1966 but regretted that the Civil war Subsequent meetings were held at the Afugiri Umuahia quest for global Igbo Unity Action, and Prosperity. It was further has reduced same economy to very low levels. He was however residence of Dr. M.I Okpara, Umunze residence of Chief M.N borne out of the need to institutionalize a new regime of consulta- hopeful that with the energetic industrious and enterprising spirit Ugochukwu, Ozubulu residence of Chief Jerome Udoji and tion and enabling relationships between Igbos and other ethnic of Ndigbo, their bones shall rise again. He then recommended the Palace of the People Arondizuogu residence of Dr. K. O. groups in Nigeria and the entire humanity. that the future of Ndigbo lies in their reorganizing themselves and Mbadiwe. After these inaugural meetings, other traditional Moved by these aspirations, leading Igbo think-tanks from the taking partisan politics more seriously, instead of relying only on rulers, politicians and business men were invited to the enlarged various works of life and across the Nigeria States and the diaspora trading. He advised that Ndigbo must opt out of righteous anger group which held meetings at the Imede Lodge of Dr. Akanu formerly declared Igbonine into existence in 2020. The organiza- over their Civil war experience and face a restructured Nigeria for Ibiam near Government House Enugu. Chief Udoji was later tion’s membership is open to all Igbos in Nigeria and the diaspora. their wellbeing and businesses. succeeded as Secretary General by Prof. Ben Nwabueze. Its formal inauguration in Enugu on 21st June 2021 was attended He advised that war views should be resisted but persuasion The main political action of the group was the mobilization by many prominent personalities while some who could not attend and negotiation with others should be the new weapons. Elected of material and financial resources, combining with “Federal sent goodwill messages. representatives must overcome psychological defeat, negative Might” to ensure the defeat of Chief Jim Nwobodo, the Nigerian The Chairman of the occasion, distinguished Senator Enyin- values and culture must be jettisoned and that Ndigbo must insist Peoples Party (NPP) Governor of Anambra State by Chief C.C naya Abaribe, who is the Senate Minority Leader, congratulated on power rotation to South East in 2023. He further advised that Onoh of National Party of Nigeria (NPN) in 1983. It was argued the organization for appearing at this period in Nigeria political Ndigbo should look beyond APC and PDP as vehicles for achiev- then that Ndigbo should align with the Center, most signifi- history, to assist in bringing problems of Ndigbo to world atten- ing Igbo Presidency in 2023 and that they must think differently cantly, as the number two citizen of the country, Vice President tion. He observed that the Nigerian Union is stifling the Igbos and be very strategic in their politics. Alex Ekwueme was an Igbo man. On the 31st Dec. of 1983 the and that Igbos are “making a lot of noise to loosen themselves”. military struck and terminated the Second Republic. The rest as He noted that the present Government of Nigeria manifests t4BN&LQFJTB.FEJBBOE13DPOTVMUBOUBOEDPN- they say is history. sectional preferences as Boko Haram has devastated the entire NFOUBUPSPO1VCMJDBGGBJST Ohaneze Ndigbo has since undergone much structural North East of Nigeria but are not branded terrorists while young transformation establishing branches in all nooks and corners people carrying placards against sectionalism and injustice are 3FBEGVMMBSUJDMFPOMJOFXXXUIJTEBZMJWFDPN of Nigeria where Ndigbo reside. Still existing as a socio cultural organization of Ndigbo, it is the apex organization of Ndigbo all over the world. Many organizations have been coming up, all under the umbrella of Ohaneze, each aimed at protecting and projecting the interest of the Igbos everywhere in Nigeria. The organization has tried with some measure of success to disen- Evercare Sets Standard with tangle itself from partisan politics but only concern itself with the interest and welfare of Igbos. However man is a political animal and the organization finds itself unable to completely detach itself from the politics of Nigeria, hence its intervention at some Molecular Imaging System critical periods in national politics in the interest of Ndigbo. The present travails of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the IPOB leader in which it has sent an observer team to the court trial of Kanu is a case in Olaoluwakitan Babatunde Officer of Evercare. point. Eyong Ebai, GE Healthcare’s General Manager for Sub- As stated earlier, many groups and associations have been vercare Hospital, Lekki, a state-of-the-art medical Saharan Africa said: “It is this ability to make visible what established to assist Ohaneze pursue and realize its aims and ob- facility located in Lagos, has raised the bar in could normally be invisible that enables true discovery in jectives. They include, but not limited to Alaigbo Development clinical excellence and diagnostic versatility nuclear medicine. Leading clinical discovery is about improv- Foundation; Aka-Ikenga, Concerned South East/South-South with the procurement and installation of the ing care for as many patients as possible. Everything we do professionals, Mgborogwu Igbo and many offers. GE SPECT-CT 870 DR, a premium hybrid is with the purpose of providing top private facilities like The latest of the organizations Igbonine, was launched in molecular imaging system developed by GE Evercare, as well as public hospitals, with the tools they need Enugu, June 21 2021 at a very elaborate ceremony which had the Healthcare. to go in search of true discovery. The GE SPECT-CT 870 DR attendance of many Igbo personalities led by High Chief Emeka One of five nuclear medicine systems in reflects our continued commitment to helping improve Okonkwo its President General. It has a Board of Trustees the 800 series, the GE SPECT-CT 870 DR machine puts quality, access and affordability of SPECT/CT, so comprising six successful businessmen and professionals Einto practice everything that the global medical technol- they can continue in their work to change lives for the including Emeka Okonkwo himself, Dr Augustine Metu, Dr ogy and digital solutions innovator has learned over the better. Dennis Ude Ekumankama, Engr. Mark Uchendu, Chief Capt. course of 20 years by bringing the latest in SPECT/CT “All our 800 Series SPECT-CT systems build on the (Rtd.) Frank Ntima, and Chief Eze Ezeilo. The new organization advancements to a wider range of clinical environments. success of the 600 Series with a collection of SPECT has been duly registered at the Corporate Affairs Commission “At Evercare Hospital, quality patient care is our goal. technology enhancements that add to the value of and has a central Executive Committee comprising the President And it starts with making an accurate diagnosis. That nuclear medicine. The GE SPECT-CT 870 DR is Digital General, Dr. L.D Agbasi, Prof. Steve Nwokocha, Chief Emeka is why we are constantly investing in technologies and Ready. The system’s modular design enables an in-field Eriobuna, Dr. Marcel Ezenwoye, High Chief Benito Mac Ozigbo, solutions—like the GE SPECT-CT 870 DR—that increase upgrade to a CZT-based technology from the current NaI/PMT Dr. Charles Oluwuwa, Ozomkpu Eddy Nwokoye, Arch. Stan our diagnostic capabilities and lead to better patient detector design. Such investment protection allows hospitals Nwanna, Barr. Smart Iheazor and Engr. Frank Aghabalu. outcomes. This machine provides shorter, more tolerable that acquire the equipment future access to the latest digital It also has a State and Diaspora Committee and a Standing exams for greater patient comfort. Also, it is able to detect technology to expand Nuclear Medicine applications and and Adhoc Committees. Igbonine has its Corporate Headquar- small lesions, allowing us to diagnose diseases faster and research opportunities, without a need to fully replace the provide better care,” said Rajeev Bhandari, Chief Executive hybrid system and also to facilitate capital planning.” THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER AUGUST 7, 2021 33 POLITY Amplifying Youths Development in Katsina Francis Sardauna writes that the inauguration of Aminu Bello Masari Youth Foundation will help in integrating the youths into the economic diversification policy of the Katsina State Government

s the race for the 2023 presidential election Accordingly, he is putting machinery in motion to run continues to gain momentum, Governor the foundation without government direct involvement Aminu Bello Masari of Katsina State is not as “not a single kobo belonging to the government” thinking about vying for any political or would be used to finance the foundation’s activities. party office, rather, he is adopting revolving With zero tolerance to money sharing, the foundation is strategies and sustainable policies that will using the existing entrepreneurs to train the new ones curb the rate of poverty among the teeming as apprentices and assist those with small businesses to unemployed youths within and outside develop into a “much bigger business” so that they can Katsina State through entrepreneurial skills and mentor- have more hands to work with and enhance productivity. Aship development. During an interactive session with journalists on The governor believes that when youths are well- the activities of the foundation, Masari, said: “It is a equipped with essential skills, they can utilize the non-partisan foundation and whatever we do won’t be acquired skills to fend for themselves and others by either partisan because it is personal. When l finally leave office, being gainfully employed or engaging in entrepreneur- I will put arrangement in place that the foundation will ship, which results in living a life of dignity, and provides be sustainable even after my life. for futuristic investments, thereby aiding the nation to “Our intention is not to give money to people. No, it’s thrive economically. to train them and put them to work. With the level of the Masari, who has always been at the forefront in empow- Head office of the Aminu Masari Youth Empowerment skill, we are planning to give to any person...once you ering and canvassing supports for youths across Nigeria, Foundation in Katsina give him that skill, he will use the skill to earn a living. is of the view that the fate and future of the youths in the It is high time to start forcing our youths to be more country are tied to the realities of the nation’s political most of the youths would be empowered with relevant productive and depend on themselves, not depending economy and the kind of youths groomed in any society, entrepreneurship skills to avert overdependence on on government’s patronage or employment. has a direct link with the opportunities provided to them government for jobs.” “As a governor, we have tried empowerment to by the society. With empowerment as the epicenter of the founda- several strata of youths in this state and we have seen Therefore, “An economically empowered youth is more tion’s programmes, the Aminu Bello Masari Foundation very few of them that put efforts in the businesses they likely to be patriotic, hard-working and realiable in the will also create a vast job market, as it provides an avenue were trained for. Our approach now is using the existing drive to achieve sustained development”, and all must for refinement of potentials within the youths in the entrepreneurs to train the new ones as apprentices and put in place revolving strategies or programmes to tackle thematic areas of education, youth empowerment, medi- see how we can help those with small businesses to the spirit of frustration and crime in youths by providing cal outreach and positive mentorship opportunities. develop into a much bigger business so that they can them with sustainable ventures and ideologies that will The foundation, which has it headquarters in Katsina, have more hands to work with”. better their lives.” according to economic coaches, has the capacity to According Masari, the foundation was established One of such revolving strategies adopted by the contribute significantly to promoting the role of youths in when he was the Speaker of the House of Representa- governor to sustain his empowerment drive and other shaping the future of Nigeria, particularly at this critical tives and he tried to distant the foundation from his youth-oriented programmes, especially the physically moment that the nation is bleeding as a result of nefari- political activities. He explained that the foundation had challenged in the state even when he leave office as the ous activities orchestrated by bandits, kidnappers and rendered numerous humanitarian services to citizens of Governor of Katsina State, is the recent inauguration of insurgents. the state, particularly in the area of scholarship to indi- his personal foundation christened, “Aminu Bello Masari Masari’s intention is to intervene directly in the lives of gene students, stressing: “We have gone as far as Bauchi, Youth Empowerment Foundation.” the people, not only of Katsina State, without prejudice Borno and many other northern and southern states The foundation was inaugurated to ensure that youths to any partisan belonging, especially in the scheme of where Katsina state students were. And we have lots of acquire new skills and develop already existing skills to affairs that affects youths development. This perhaps, medical outreach, especially around Malumfashi area.” sustain a decent means of livelihood, thus, shielding them informed his decision to energize the foundation now from the influence of negative vices due to idleness or as he commenced his journey of leaving public office by inability to secure a stable source of livelihood. This is also 2023. Rarely, this will be an ample opportunity for him to Read full article online - www.thisdaylive.com expected to curb the rate of crime in the state “because give the foundation more time and the desired attention. Abiodun, Come to ‘Macedonia’ and Help Us Femi Ogbonnikan they aptly lent credence to fulfilling the electoral promises of that shares a common border with Kanga, a neighbouring t a stage, when the hopes of the people being ensuring an even, fair, just and equitable development of all parts community in the Republic of Benin. governed are dashed and also, their spirit of the state; that no section would be developed at the expense of Worthy of note, the 2003 extension route, linking Ilara dampened, resulting from several years of neglect others. In clear terms, it is the gospel of an inclusive government, (Nigeria) to Ketu (Republic of Benin) and hence Southward and marginalisation, it takes the courage, which always involves the people in the decision-making pro- through to Port Novo and Cotonou via Pobe and Westward magnanimity and candour of a God-sent man to cess on the issues that affect them and by extension, a transparent to the Republic of Benin-Togo border via Gbohicon, all in the come to the rescue and restore the lost confidence and accountable administration which always ensure strategic Republic of Benin, has significantly impacted positively and in the citizenry. allocation of resources in order to derive optimal benefits from all also increased trade and commercial activities in the wider The recent local government campaign train of the Ogun the spending. member countries of the Economic Community of West AState Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, to Imeko-Afon Imeko, the administrative headquarters of Imeko-Afon Local African States (ECOWAS). Council Area, on Monday, July 12, 2021, was literarily a Government Area, is an ancient town that shares common Looking inward, also worrisome is the 16-kilometre deplor- blessing in disguise to its inhabitants and an eye opener to the borders with neighbouring communities and villages in the able road condition linking the people of Okeagbede-Moriwi, states helmsman. The event amply afforded the Governor an Republic of Benin. Local dialect (Yoruba-Ketu), culture and tradi- Okuta-Wasimi and Iwoye-Ketu/Jabata from Imeko. From opportunity to feel the pangs and pains motorists and other tion, except currencies and official language barriers distinguish time immemorial, and as early as human existence, the road road users plying the only age-long-single-entry-and-exit the locales of the neighbouring communities and villages has never been asphalted, but it has always been at the mercy route that traverse three local governments (Abeokuta North, between the two West African countries. of communal efforts. Whenever it is wet season, the residents Yewa North and Imeko-Afon), go through on a daily basis. Abeokuta, Ogun State capital, is 68-kilometres to Imeko. With of these affected communities often come together and Honestly, the governor, in his humane stance, begged the its historical development, the rich and vast arable land of the engage in the road maintenance-with the cutting of logs to fill people of the area on behalf of the state government, stating area is second to none, thus, making it a food basket of the state. wide-gap and sand-filling eroded portions-to facilitate the that he never knew that the road was as terrible as that. Predominantly, the inhabitants are both commercial and peasant movement of their farm produce from one location to another. “This government belongs to you; continue to support us farmers. Notwithstanding, apart from the locally reared cattle in Of paramount importance, Imeko, being the International in prayers. On my way from Abeokuta, enroute Lafenwa to the area, on a daily basis, there is an influx of herds of cattle from headquarters of the Celestial Church of Christ (CCC), attract- Rounder and through Olorunda, until I got here, I saw how both Republic of Benin and Togo via Save (Republic of Benin) for ing pilgrims from all walks of life, annually and especially deplorable the road is. I feel your pains. I want to promise you the supply of very big markets in and around Abeokuta, Ogun during its bi-annual events (Easter and Christmas festivities), today that, before I come here next time, this would almost have State capital. often occasioned with heavy traffic jam (both human and been completed”, he averred. Meanwhile, the realisation of the enormous and potential vehicular), lends credence to the importance the road deserves It was a clear demonstration of empathy by the governor who socio-economic significance of this Federal road (initially for its urgent rehabilitation. The road, owing to total neglect beat the youths to it, with their torrents of demand. All was a constructed by the defunct Western Administration of Chief from previous administration, has degenerated into death chorus for the rehabilitation of the Abeokuta-Olorunda-Imeko Obafemi Awolowo in the early 60s) to the state, and the nation, traps for motorists and also bait for kidnappers and armed road, with various placards, beckoning on the governor to come at large, prompted the facilitation of the Petroleum Trust Fund bandits who often cash in on several potholes along the to the rescue of the people of the area. But a placard carrying the (PTF), under the then, Chairmanship of Gen. Muhammadu route to make brisk business of collecting ransoms from their inscription of, “Come Over to Macedonia (Imeko) And Help Buhari, now President, in financing the resurfacing of the victims in exchange for their release from captivity. Us,” caught the attention of Mr. Governor. It was reminiscence of Abeokuta/Imeko Federal Route 102 in 1996. It could be Still fresh in memory, the armed robbery attack on a bullion a Holy Scripture injunction in ‘Acts 16:9’ where a man of Macedo- recalled that a passionate appeal letter the duo of Professors van conveying cash from Imeko branch of Zenith Bank to nia sought the intervention of Apostle Paul to come to their aid, Anthony Asiwaju and Segun Adesina to the then, Minister Abeokuta, at a location within Olorunda axis, along the while in dire need. for Works, Gen. Abdulkarim Adisa, facilitated the quick and Abeokuta-Imeko road, sometime in August 2011, was a sad Given the promise by Mr. Governor to reconstruct the road, in speedy adoption of the Abeokuta-Olorunda-Imeko road reminder of the deplorable road condition. due course, it is expected that the rehabilitation would, to a large project for reconstruction, amongst others in the state, in 1996. extent, ease the hardship travelers of the route often encounter. Resulting from the proximity of Imeko (Nigeria) to Ketu Ogbonnikan wrote from Imeko, Ogun State It is seldom of a man, especially a Nigerian politician, to live (Republic of Benin), the administration of Otunba Gbenga up to his billing within a space of two years in office to execute 52 Daniel, in 2003, took it upon itself and facilitated the extension Read full article online - www.thisdaylive.com projects across different parts of the council. With these projects, of the road to link Ilara, another commercial nerve centre 34 THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER AUGUST 7, 2021 POLITY Umeoji, Soludo and the Verdict of Equity in APGA Sunny Igboanugo his gifted sassy wits, concerning the political macabre Instead, the former Governor of the Central Bank of dance that is going on in Anambra State where I come Nigeria (CBN), regaled his audience about how Anambra here was this drunken lawyer that I met from, particularly in the All Progressives Grand Alliance people were begging him to become governor. He back then in Asaba, . It was (APGA), as it relates to the adherence of this time-tested conveniently failed to stress how the disqualification of during the tribunal case involving then principle or lack of it. Chukwuma Umeoji, his major opponent for the APGA Governor, the late Olorogun Felix Ibru and Could anybody in good conscience discountenance the ticket in the November 6 governorship election in the state Eric Opia. Ibru became governor on the back issue of equity in the entire APGA saga or play down the birthed the crisis. As usual, he also blame outside forces. of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), as import and consequences of not approaching it with clean Umeoji had posed the greatest threat to the Professor against Opia’s National Republican Congress hands? That is the question anyone getting involved either of Economics, whether real or imagined in the run to the (NRC), the two political parties that former as an active participant or an observer, must attempt to party’s primaries. Unlike Soludo, who has never held any Military President, the gap-toothed Nigerian political answer. political office in the state or even in Nigeria, either elective Maradona,T Ibrahim Babangida gifted the country during Is it not evident that like in other Nigerian political par- or appointive, apart from his CBN job, Umeoji, was not his ill-fated transition programme, about 30 years ago. ties, APGA habours its own fair share of injustice against only a local government chairman through elections, but a Such a man that loved his bottles, this lawyer was! its members, particularly aspirants? Would it even be two-time member of the House of Representatives, relying Like every drunk, his shrivelled, shrunken stature, glazy farfetched to infer that the party has even elevated crooked on the votes of the people – the same people that would eyes, alcohol-laden smelly mouth and all that went with selection of candidates for its elections as a way of life? likely have voted at the primaries. constant matrimony with the bottles would always hit Isn’t this what is playing out in the current saga? Obviously, he was only too happy that this obstacle you. “APGA is a fraud. It is more than a ponzi scheme and a was removed for him by the APGA hierarchy and that a Yet, he was actually in the legal team of the Ibrus! I can’t continuous criminal enterprise. It is an Anambra business make-shift arrangement was made to select him as the really recall the circumstances, because I know it was the to defraud and make money using aspirants every four candidate of the party by his camp by putting him up late Kehinde Sofola that eventually won the case for Ibru years. It’s a scam. Every four years, people are defrauded. against some agreeable, but paper-weight candidates, to over the late Rotimi Williams, who represented Opia. It’s no longer nkea bu nke anyi to nkea bu nke ndi ori (It is give the process a veneer of credibility. However, my man actually came from the state ministry no longer this is our own, it now means this for thieves). Now, should a character like Soludo have accepted of justice in the state. He was always passing notes to one Some people lost millions and millions to the cartel, some that the process be skewed in his favour in any political of the female lawyers, who was leading the team. That people were given certificates of returns four times.” contest? Should desperation for power, no matter how lawyer is now at the Supreme Court as one of the justices. That was one Tony Gray Okpe, an aspirant for the genuine his intentions drive him to the dark part of history Even with my little experience as a rookie, few months senatorial elections in about three years ago, at as a beneficiary of a rigged process? Having done so, hasn’t into journalism, and being in a courtroom for the first time the approach of the 2019 elections. Of course, you needed he lost the ground to wax moral and submit himself to the of my life, I had wondered then, how such a person of to hear the version of other candidates including Bianca, jankara politics that is now playing out as the outcome? These failing character, could be entrusted with such a responsi- wife of the late Ikemba Nnewi, Chief Emeka Odumegwu are the questions begging for answers – the crux of the matter. bility. But I was to learn later that he was a brilliant lawyer Ojukwu, on whose back the party rode to power in It is unfortunate that the same Soludo was once a victim of apart from being a senior officer in the ministry. Anambra State to underscore that Okpe’s vituperation, ut- the APGA poisoned chalice, having been similarly disquali- It was while reviewing the case during one of the inter- ter disappointment and anger and the likes of Sam Amadi, fied in 2009 a few days to clinching the ticket for that year’s mittent breaks that I heard for the first time the expression former Chairman of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory election, using the same inexplicable hammer of electoral – he who goes to equity, must go with clean hands. As he Commission (NERC), whose fingers were burnt trying to roguery. It is more saddening that the same man, who did not lectured me further about the implications of the argu- contest elections under APGA. accept the situation then and ran to the Peoples Democratic ment of the team, he added – when equity is equal, the law Incidentally, many analysts simply paper over this Party (PDP), where he contested and lost, would now be prevails. What is the law in this case? The votes! I didn’t central issue. Even Chukwuma Charles Soludo, while on singing praises of what he condemned only a few years quite understand the second leg of this lecture, talking Channels Television a fortnight ago failed to focus on this ago. about equity being equal and the votes. But the first part unfortunate aspect in his analysis of the current crisis in held a kind of fascination to me that for a long time after, I APGA in Anambra State. That he did so, speaks a lot to the Sunny Igboanugo, a journalist and public found a way of infusing it into my lexicon, oral or written. odious nature of Nigerian politics and its propensity to analyst wrote from Lagos. I couldn’t help recalling my encounter with this lawyer taint, if not consume those who venture into it, no matter with whom I became very attached mainly because of their pedigrees, hitherto. Read full article online - www.thisdaylive.com PHOTO NEWS

L-R: Lagos State Commissioner for Agriculture, Ms. Abisola Olusanya and President, Veterinary L –R: Chairman , Abuja District of Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), Mrs. Clara Council of Nigeria, Dr. Aisha Abubakar during her visit to launch agriculture road map & red meat Nnachi; the Accountant General of thee Federation , Ahmed Idris and the President of the Insti- value chain partnership plan with the Lagos state government to curb the spread of antimicrobial tute, Mr. Adesina Adedayo during the courtesy visit of the institute to the Accountant General resistance in food animals in Lagos...recently office in Abuja ….yesterday. GODWIN OMOIGUI

L-R: Director, Lagos State Library Board, Mr. Amao Oyadipe;Representative of the Executive Sec- retary , Lagos State Scholarship Board, Mrs. Tinuola Idowu; Special Adviser L-R: State Director, Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), Mrs. Bolanle Emmanuel; Head of the on Education, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education , Mr. Adeniram Atisbo LG, representing the LG Chairman, Mr. Samson Ilori; Executive Director, Initiative for Gender Kasali; Senior Special Assistant on Tertiary Institutions and Students relations, Mr. Sanya Olu Empowerment and Creativity (IGEC), Mrs. Olasumbo Adeleke, Director, Public Affairs, Communi- Omotayo; and Director, Agency for Mass Education, Mrs. Oluwakemi Kalesanwo, at the 3-day Ca- cations and Sustainability, Coca-Cola Nigeria, Nwamaka Onyemelukwe; and Secretary, Oyo State pacity Building Retreat organised by the office of the Special Adviser on Education in Epe, Lagos Agribusiness Development Agency, Mrs. Fadekemi Akande at the launch of the Climate Smart Shea recently ETOP UKUTT Processing Facility project, sponsored by The Coca-Cola Foundation, recently. THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER AUGUST 7, 2021 35 POLITY APC Ward Congresses in Kwara, a Leading Model Hammed Shittu in Ilorin Bai Buni of being the brain behind the crisis in the state. After should come together to deliver what we promised the people of ast week, the Kwara State chapter of the ruling All this outing, a stakeholders’ meeting was held at Banquet Hall of Kwara State. Progressives Congress (APC) conducted its ward Government House, Ilorin with the governor, Alhaji AbdulRah- “I want to assure the chairman (congress committee) that we are congresses in all the 193 wards, alongside other states man AbdulRazaq, his deputy, Mr..Kayode Alabi and other top known for peace because Kwara is not known for thuggery. The to ensure the day-to- day running of the party’s APC leaders in the state jointly agreed to use consensus model to congress will go peacefully tomorrow. It is through dialogue and affairs at that level. The party had been enmeshed in produce ward executives in the 193 wards, but two of the wards consensus that we will arrive at conclusion.” crisis for over two years now without any amicable insisted on elections, which also went peacefully. Chairman APC caretaker committee in the state Abdullahi resolution in sight, and this has split the members At the end of the stakeholders’ meeting called by the APC Samari said: “The purpose of this meeting is to take briefings on into two groups. Despite this development, the party National Headquarters’ Congress Planning Committee in the ward congresses that will take place in the state. The national recorded sound and hitch-free ward congresses. Ilorin, members of the party unanimously settled for consensus secretariat of our great party has sent a team to conduct the ward LOne group is led by Information Minister, Alhaji Lai Moham- candidates across the 193 wards. congresses and that team is led by Prof Jonathan Ayuba. I want med and has its state secretariat at Flower Garden Area, GRA, The pre-congress stakeholders’ meeting was attended by top all members here (as representatives of various communities) to Ilorin, while the other group’s state secretariat, supported by the party chieftains from the state, including Governor AbdulRah- take back the correct position of how the exercise is going to be governor, Alhaji AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has its own state man AbdulRazaq; Speaker of the House of Assembly Yakubu conducted. With the collation of ideas we have this evening it is secretariat at Commissioner’s Lodge, Area, Ilorin. Danladi Salihu; Senators Yahya Oloriegbe (Central); Lola agreed that we are going home for consensus candidates.” During the congresses, party members from the 193 wards Ashiru (South); House of Representatives members; House of The Speaker, who was represented by the Deputy Speaker trouped out in large numbers to be part of the exercise, while the vari- Assembly members; Kwara APC Caretaker committee chairman Raphael Adetiba, said members of the House have agreed to ous security officers were strategically positioned across the wards Abdullahi Samari; and many others. Governor AbdulRazaq said consensus arrangement. to avoid possible breakdown of law and order. Also, representatives the party congress is a democratic process designed to ensure “What we are saying is that we have only one leader per term. of the national caretaker committee of APC witnessed the exercise smooth running of the party and reiterated the commitment of God has given us Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq at this in different centres in line with the law, just as party loyalists, INEC the APC administration to serve the masses: “We are here only time and if anybody has a dissenting voice, maybe he is not a officials, among others. for Kwarans. They voted for us and we must continue to think citizen of this state. As far as we all know from the leadership of Prior to the conduct of the congress, the three-member committee about our people. We must not disappoint our people. We know the party in the state, we are prepared for discussion and dialogue. from APC secretariat in Abuja briefed journalists in Ilorin on the what we are doing tomorrow. Speakers have spoken and I wish That is consensus. Our assurance to the national headquarters of guidelines for the exercise. The chairman of the committee, Alhaji everyone safe journey to our respective places. May we have a APC is that it is consensus for Kwara,” he added. Yusuf Umar said, “We are for all in the party and all members of the successful outing tomorrow,” according to the Governor, who However, on the day of the congresses, for instance, election was party are free to come and obtain nomination forms so as to partake in was represented by Deputy Governor Kayode Alabi. adopted at Baboko ward in Local Government Area, the exercise. Any interested member of the party willing to vie for the Senator Oloriegbe said: “We are a united family as a party in while similar process was used to elect Alhaji Ibrahim Abdullahi executive positions in the wards would pay a certain sum of money Kwara. APC in Kwara is the party in government and no king will who emerged as the chairman in Badari ward of Ilorin West Local in the bank and bring his or her bank teller to the committee before constitute an enemy against himself. What brought (to the people Council Area. Attempts by APC coordinator, Tunde Aluko, at the he/she can get the nomination forms for the exercise.” of) Kwara is ‘Otoge’ and change that we promised our people. venue of the congress, to convince the people to adopt consensus Umar, who assured members of equity and justice in the as- And what we said Otoge for is bad governance. We promised arrangement met brick wall. signment given to them from Abuja, said “We are from the same good governance and that is what the governor and all of us The Independent National Electoral Commission’s Electoral family and the members of the party should endeavour to work elected under the party have been delivering. Officer, Mr Danlami Zakari, also hailed the peaceful and seamless as one united entity so as to move the party forward in the state.” “There is no household or community without a leader and conduct of the ward Congress in Gwanara ward of Local The group loyal to the information minister, Alhaji Mohammed only God appoints leaders. Anybody God has appointed, we Government. had, few days to the ward congresses, also obtained nomination should all cooperate with him. That is the person’s time. We forms to vie for various elective posts. They even accused the should all cooperate as one family. What we want and what we Read full article online - www.thisdaylive.com national chairman caretaker committee of the party, Mallam need is unity of purpose. We shouldn’t be fighting ourselves. We

Michael Williams I’m Driven by Passion to Create, Innovate Michael Igagha Williams is a graduate of Marketing Communications from Ashworth College, Atlanta GA, United States. He also studied Graphic Design at the University of the Arts, London, United Kingdom. Igagha is a consummate marketing communications expert with almost two decades’ experience in the advertising field. He launched GOGAGA IDEAS in 2018. We caught up with him on his entrepreneurial journey so far

What is GOGAGA IDEAS all about? while. This is just our third year in business and today, we may not yet be considered a major player in our industry, but interestingly, Our company is GOGAGA IDEAS, an we did not even set out to be a big agency in the first place, we set effective design, digital and marketing out to be the most effective agency for our partners. As long as we communications firm for the digital era. I are effective at delivering unique solutions and winning ideas, we started out in the marketing communica- will do just fine! The reason we do business with the likes of Guin- tions “space” when I joined Commstrat ness, Diageo, Betking, Grand Cereals Limited, Orisun Gallery Associates Limited in 2003 as a Graphic amongst many others today is a testament to how effective we are Artist. Commstrat was promoted by my in delivering solutions that work. late boss, Hakeem Adenekan, who was popularly known by his sobriquet “Krimo”. The rest, as What programme is your company presently theyO say, is history. involved in? We have got a host of initiatives in the pipeline that our confi- What influenced your choice of profession? dentiality agreements will not allow us disclose at this time, but It is almost a clichéd, as it may sound. My choice of profession one project we are very excited about currently is our digital TV was always going to be driven by the passion to create, the channel GogagaTV® officially launching worldwide later this drive to innovate and the fulfilment that comes with nurturing year. Building a robust media platform is the future and we are brands. Back in the day, I always marvelled at how agencies taking the lead with GogagaTV; a unique digital TV channel that create the winning idea. Agencies like Insight Communications, will deliver unique and paid content in Movies, Music & Comedy Lintas, Centerspread FCB, SO&U and Prima Garnet at the time like never seen before in Africa. were masters of the game and I was always fascinated even as I believed that was the sphere I belonged to. What is your company’s competitive ad- vantage? How did you start the journey of becoming Igagha We go for ideas that work, no stories. We bring ideas that the CEO? deliver effective value to our partners, not ideas that we It was just natural that I was going to lead a creative agency. What were the challenges you had initially think will make us money. Over the years in this industry, I At Commstrat Advertising, I started out as what was then called and how were you able to surmount them? have seen companies literarily waste money on campaigns Graphic Artist, to Senior Art Director within three years. Then The major challenge for me personally was how I was going to they do not need to waste money on. I was a part of that era I was promoted from Senior Art Director to Group Head and get clients. Even in my capacity as COO, I focused more on getting too. I believe that era is long gone now, because, today there ultimately became Creative Director all within five years. The the job done and growing the agency that I did not really pay at- are awesome innovative tools at our disposal that never position of Creative Director in my specialisation is naturally the tention to how to bring in clients. But then again, I always believe existed even 10 years ago that we maximise for optimum peak, but then I believe my leadership abilities found me out, in the power of collaborations and co-creation and that is the results for our partners. So, If we demand change today it within another three years having led the agency in my capacity magic for us at GOGAGA. We have fostered amazing partnership is because we know that things must be better. Not every as Creative Director, I was made the Chief Operating Officer with like-minds and I honestly believe that is how to do busi- campaign must go on TV or radio or even the print without (COO) of the Agency. As COO, I was already managing and nesses will be conducted, going into the future. Agencies that were assurance of value. At GOGAGA, when we spend your money, running end-to-end activities of the agency, from leading the ordinarily considered competitors became co-collaborators. We we account for the value it delivers. That’s our cutting edge. The Creative team, Client Servicing to job delivery. So, after serving in found key strength areas to add value to each other and became media landscape is changing fast, so it’s obvious, agencies must that role of COO for another five productive years, the only way stronger together than alone. innovate or become extinct! A new future beckons and we are well to go was up, so it became natural that I was going to take the bold positioned in shaping it. step of managing an agency and that gave birth to GOGAGA How has the company fared in meeting its set IDEAS today. But then at GOGAGA we just wanted to do things out objectives? Read full article online - www.thisdaylive.com differently, so we’re not your conventional ad agency. I believe we have done very well for ourselves in a very short 36 THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER AUGUST 7, 2021

Bennett Oghifo AUTO WORLD 07052343083 Email:[email protected] TIPS OF THE WEEK Tips on How to Maintain Your New Car Simple tasks that can make your car last longer One of the reassuring qualities of contemporary cars is that they need much less-frequent service to keep them running well. Changing the spark plugs, breaker points, and condenser used to be a seasonal exercise, and body rust was accepted as a normal if unfortunate hazard of aging. Now many spark plugs can go 100,000 miles between changes. Electronic ignition has done away with the points and condenser. Chassis, suspensions, and even some transmissions are lubed for life. And factory rust-through warranties typically run six years or longer. What’s more, reliability has improved significantly. The result is that most late-model cars and trucks should be able to go 200,000 miles with regular upkeep.

Here are a few simple, periodic checks and procedures you can do that will help you get there. Check the Engine Oil L-R :Aftersales Manager, Jaguar Land Rover, Coscharis Motors, Mobolaji Afuape; General Manager, Marketing and Corporate Communications, Cos- Do it regularly—monthly for a vehicle in good condition; charis Group, Abiona Babarinde; General Manager, Sales, Jaguar Land Rover - Coscharis Motors, Ufuoma Umukoro at the official reveal of the All New more often if you notice an oil leak or find you need to add oil routinely. The car should be parked on level ground so Jaguar F - Pace into the Nigeria market held at the Lagos showroom of Coscharis Motors in Awoyaya… recently you can get an accurate dipstick reading. Don’t overfill. And if you do have a leak, find and fix it soon.

Check Tire Air Pressure Once a month and before any extended road trips, Coscharis Motors Unveils All use an accurate tire-pressure gauge to check the inflation pressure in each tire, including the spare. Do this when the tires are cold (before the vehicle has been driven or after no more than a couple of miles of driving). Use the inflation New Jaguar F Pace to Media pressure recommended by the vehicle’s manufacturer, not the maximum pressure embossed on the tire’s sidewall. t was one of the highlights of the fair been one of the most sorted after through the headlamps, Hill Start Assist, Apple CarPlayTM/ The recommended pressure is usually found on a placard when the leading auto dealership duration of the fair and beyond.” Android Auto/AppLink 3.0, Reverse sensing on a front doorjamb, in the glove compartment, or in the in Nigeria, Coscharis Motors Plc “The platform equally was a perfect place system, Lane-keeping System, Auto high-beam owner’s manual. Also be sure to inspect tires for abnormal recently introduced the all new Ford where we showcased the Ford Escape that is headlamps, Auto hold, Pedestrian detection, or uneven wear, cuts, and any sidewall bulges you can see. Explorer at the recently held 2021 currently on a special promotional discount Forward collision warning, Dynamic brake CR advises that digital tire-pressure gauges (which cost Lagos Motor Fair, which took place - nearly up to two million naira for every support, Post-collision braking, EcoCoach and about $15 to $25) are probably the best bet overall because at the Federal Palace Hotel, Lagos. purchase, amongst other packages. Intelligent Oil-Life Monitor. they will give an accurate reading or none at all. Many Coscharis’s participation at this edition of the “To complete the total package we oͿered pencil-type gauges (typically $10 to $15) are good as well. MotorI Fair was in a bid to ensure customers at the fair was to give Ànance scheme support Go further Note that to check the pressure in a temporary spare tire, get the opportunity to experience the new Ford to discerning prospects as a way to ease You can go further with the Ford Protect which which is often 60 psi, you will need a gauge that goes Explorer among other Ford variants on display. oͿers a holistic suite of service, maintenance, higher than that—say from 0 up to 90 pounds. Speaking at the fair ground, Abiona Babarinde, STAY CHARGED warranty and roadside-assistance products General Manager, Marketing & Corporate Up to 9 available power points, including aimed at keeping the vehicle in perfect working Wash the Car Communications, Coscharis Group expressed 2 new USB-C outlets, are located throughout condition in addition to a 3-yr/100 000km Try to wash the car every week, if you can. Wash the excitement at the company’s participation in the the All-New EXPLORER interior to help keep Comprehensive Warranty. body and, if necessary, hose out the fender wells and fair. In his words, “we are excited to showcase everyone’s devices charged and ready to go. Coscharis Motors Plc has the exclusive undercarriage to remove dirt and road salt. It’s time to wax all the variants of our Ford brand at this fair franchise for Ford brands in Nigeria with the finish when water beads become larger than a quarter. to the delight of everyone that visited our Driver-Assist Technology Ford dedicated sales showrooms, parts and (Source: Consumer Reports) stand; most especially the new Ford Explorer The Explorer features as standard a series of Aftersales workshops in all the six geopolitical on display with all its unique features that has driver-assist technology including: Auto-on/oͿ zones. Lafarge Driving Institute Biden Aims for 50% Electric Vehicles by 2030 with Industry Support Produces First Certified

.S. President Joe Biden signed Female Truck Drivers an executive order this week Lafarge Africa Plc., a leading Sub-Saharan Africa build- aimed at making half of all ing solutions company and member of Holcim, a global new vehicles sold in 2030 leader in innovative and sustainable building solutions, has zero-emissions and proposed new vehicle-emission rules to announced the graduation of its first set of female drivers cut pollution through 2026, from the Lafarge Driving Institute (LDI) in , Cross the White House said. River state. This reiterates the company’s commitment to UReuters reports that Biden’s goal, which is not inclusive workplaces for women, a deliberate pledge to Gender legally binding, won the support of major U.S. and Diversity, all round safety on Nigerian roads through the foreign automakers that warned it would require availability of qualified drivers within its operations, and billions of dollars in government funding. creation of jobs around its host communities. After he signed the order, he walked away and While speaking during the graduation ceremony, the jumped into an EV Jeep, which he proceeded to County Chief Executive Officer of Lafarge Africa Plc, Mr. drive rapidly around the White House grounds, Khaled El Dokani, stated that the graduation of the first set of even honking at one point to let people know he female drivers from the Lafarge Driving Institute aligns with was coming. the company’s deliberate policy on gender diversity which “To unlock the full potential, we have to keep underscores its overall commitment to sustainability and investing in our workers and our manufacturers,” promotion of a healthy, safe and inclusive work environment. Biden said. “The Lafarge Driving Institute was set up to ensure General Motors Co (GM.N), Ford Motor Co (F.N) safety on our roads as enrollees are taken through months and Chrysler-parent Stellantis NV (STLA.MI) said of rigorous training and practical sessions on the road as well in a joint statement they aspired “to achieve sales of as simulator exercises that expose them to defensive driving 40-50% of annual U.S. volumes of electric vehicles... techniques. Upon their graduation, they are absorbed as a key by 2030.” Reuters reported the planned automaker Hyundai Kona electric car assembled in Nigeria announcement on Tuesday. part of the logistics value chain to ensure the adequate and Biden’s 50% goal and the automakers’ 40-50% timely delivery of products to customers in a safe, efficient aspiration includes battery electric, fuel cell and plug-in preserving the wages and benefits that have been binding contract.” and timely manner”. hybrid vehicles that also have a gasoline-engine. the heart and soul of the American middle class.” General Motors Chief Executive Mary Barra The Chief Financial Officer Mr. Lolu Alade-Akinyemi Biden has repeatedly resisted calls from many Biden’s new executive order sets a new schedule and Ford CEO Jim Farley were among those in said that Lafarge Africa is constantly investing in critical Democrats to set a binding requirement for EV for developing new emissions standards through attendance. areas of the business to guarantee safety of all stakeholders adoption or to follow California and some countries at least 2030 for light duty vehicles and as early as Tesla Inc (TSLA.O) CEO Elon Musk, whose at all times. He noted that Lafarge Africa is committed to in setting 2035 as a date to phase out the sale of 2027 for larger vehicles. company makes EVs, tweeted early on Thursday: sustainability and innovation as the vision is to be the global new gasoline-powered light duty vehicles in the Dan Becker, director of the Safe Climate Transport “Seems odd that Tesla wasn’t invited.” leader in innovative and sustainable building solutions. He face of opposition by the United Auto Workers Campaign, said the plan “relies on unenforceable Asked if White House was not inviting Musk, remarked: ‘On the 24th of March 2021, the Lafarge Drivers’ (UAW) union. voluntary commitments from unreliable car mak- because from Thursday’s event, because it is not a Institute (LDI) in partnership with Automated Integrated UAW President Ray Curry, who attended the ers... Voluntary pledges by auto companies make a union shop, White House press secretary, Jen Psaki Services Limited admitted 53 female trainees to embark . event, noted the EV goal but said it was focused “on New Year’s weight-loss resolution look like a legally said “I’ll let you draw your own conclusion.” THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER AUGUST 7, 2021 37 AUTO WORLD Mercedes-Benz Produces new S 680 GUARD 4MATIC Protection Machine ercedes-Benz has introduced That is because this special protection model focuses the new S 680 GUARD on people and their safety,” says Dirk Fetzer, Head 4MATIC that meets the of Product Management S-Class. highest ballistic test level “No other series-produced saloon fulfils the for civilian vehicles and highest protection class for civilian vehicles quite as is particularly resistant to comprehensively. And at the same time quality and explosive charges. durability are at series standard, thanks to extensive According to the automaker, “For what really development and testing activities. The new special counts”:M heads of state and business leaders can protection version ‘protects what matters’.” take this S-Class slogan literally when they entrust Mercedes-Benz has been building special protec- their lives to the new special protection version of tion vehicles since 1928 and thus for over 90 years. the luxury model. For, with protection class VPAM Customers of the new S 680 GUARD 4MATIC benefit VR10, the new S 680 GUARD 4MATIC (combined from these many years of experience. The integrated fuel consumption (WLTP): 19.5 l/100 km; combined protection system (iSS) reaches a new level: whereas CO2 emissions (WLTP): 442 g/km) meets the highest the necessary protective materials were previously ballistic test level for civilian vehicles and, moreover, integrated into the standard bodyshell structure for is particularly resistant to explosive charges. The the GUARD saloons, a GUARD-specific bodyshell certification by Beschussamt Ulm (ballistic testing of protective elements has now been developed. authority) was carried out for the first time using This self-supporting protective cell represents the so-called biofidelic dummies. With bone and soft core of the iSS. tissue-like constructions, these test dummies imitate the Ultimately, the (aluminium) outer skin serves as a human body particularly realistically. The S 680 Guard design shell and ensures an inconspicuous appearance. 4matic is the first Guard saloon from Mercedes-Benz In addition to the armouring, the iSS includes the with all-wheel drive and is powered by the familiar adaptation of the suspension, engine and transmission The new Mercedes-Benz S 680 GUARD 4MATIC luxury armoured car V12 (M279) with 450 kW/612 hp. The basic price is to ensure handling that is virtually on a par with that € 457,100[2] plus value added tax. The S 680 Guard of the series vehicle. Due to a parallel development transparent area of the windows is an integral and for splinter protection. Despite their comprehensive 4matic will celebrate its world premiere at the IAA process alongside the large-scale production models, essential part of the protection concept. The material and protective effect, they offer excellent visibility. And in Munich. the longevity of the GUARD vehicles also reaches thickness of the multi-layer glass ‘sandwich’ meet the they have been integrated in such a way that they “The S 680 Guard 4matic is one of the most series production level. high requirements of the VR10 safety classification. The are not noticeable at first glance - another significant customer-oriented products from Mercedes-Benz. In addition to the unseen armouring elements, the inner surfaces of the glass are coated with polycarbonate advantage of the integrated protection system. Invest in Natural Gas Vehicles now, OMAA CEO tell Nigerians he chief executive o΀cer of world, which is expected to form 26% of the energy OMAA, Chinedu Oguegbu has mix by 2040, cannot be under-estimated. urged Nigerians to use natural According to him, “Government policies and gas-powered vehicles, to key into technological advancements have led to focus on the federal government’s transition increasing the output of electric vehicles (EVs) and to the use of cleaner energy, which natural gas vehicles (NGVs). Transportation currently is abundant in the country. accounts for 15% of Carbon Emissions and vehicles Oguegbu stated this during his technical presentation represent a major part of this Àgure”. of Tthe beneÀts of using natural gas vehicles, at the He added “With Nigeria committing to the Paris Nigeria Auto Journalists Association’s (NAJA) annual Agreement to reduce the rate of climate change globally, training and capacity building workshop, held in there is an increased push by the government to Lagos recently. The theme of this year’s event was promote more environmentally friendly vehicles: “Migration to Electric Vehicles and Gas-powered EVs, NGVs and Hydrogen. Vehicles; Opportunities and Challenges for Nigeria.” The advantages of using natural gas include up The lead sponsor of the event was the National Au- to 60 per cent savings in the cost of fuel relative to tomotive Design and Development Council (NADDC). other options like diesel and petrol, and up to 90 Other sponsors of this year’s training workshop are percent reduction in knocks and carbon emission Toyota Nigeria Limited, Weststar Associates Limited, for a healthier, cleaner and more environmentally franchisees of the Mercedes brand, Jet Systems friendly fuel alternative. Limited; assemblers of Jet brands of electric vehicles Another opportunity lies in the development of for passenger and commercial uses and Autochek export businesses with other African markets, thanks Africa, provider of online automotive marketing and to the implementation of AfCTA. Ànancing option. According to Oguegbu, mass education of the OMAA gas-powered bus Other sponsors include Stallion Motors CFAO public as well as consistent government policy is also Motors, Coscharis Motors, OMAA, Kojo Motors, required in order to promote investments in natural franchise owners of Yutong electric buses and the gas vehicle assembly and production in Nigeria. From its facility in Igbo Ukwu, Anambra State, that are relevant to their local economy. Federal Roads Safety Commission, (FRSC). Chinedu Oguegbu said during the technical OMAA provides sustainable energy and mobility The company launched the Àrst local assembled, As one of the training facilitators, Oguegbu said presentation that OMAA is one of the pioneers in solutions to address today’s environmental challenges, dual-fuel, natural gas-powered commercial buses in that the increasing importance of natural gas in the this Àeld of local assembly of gas-powered vehicles. while empowering people to create rugged solutions Nigeria earlier this year.

How To Prevent A Tyre Blowout (1) knows, but may it never be you. When was the last time you ran a check on your SAFE tyre wear. In correct tyre pressure is an invi ta tion Types of in cor rect tyre in fla tion tyre pressures? Was the check done with a quality to disas ter even if the tyres are brand new! It is a There are two types of incor rect tyre pressure. tyre pres sure gauge (not the abused/ overused road DRIVING time bomb waiting for the right time to ex plode. Th ese are over infla tion and under in fla tion. Lets side vulcan iz ers gauge) It is only when you run with The im pli ca tion is that each time such a ve hi cle is take a look at how they can af fect your tyres and driv ing; the oc cu pants are fac ing grave dan ger with out cause disas ter and what could be done to main tain such checks that you will appre ci ate why the above Jonas Agwu alarm is sounded. Such a check may re veal that at being aware of it. Flip through any of our daily a proper pres sure for your tyres and so pre vent or least one of your tyres is in cor rectly in flated. Very amnipr, mcipr,mprsa,arpa newspa pers and you will be shocked with news of dras ti cally min i mize blowout and other forms of Assistant Corps Marshal few ve hi cles, if any, will pass this test. In cor rect tyre Zonal Commanding Officer ghastly motor ac cidents as a result of tyre blowouts. tyre fail ures. pres sure is the number one cause of tyre blow-outs, Federal Road Safety Corps. Top mil i tary of fi cers, top govern ment func tionar ies, There are two types of incor rect tyre pressure. sud den tyre failures and prema ture tyre wear. Incor rect top busi ness ex ec u tives as well as or di nary peo ple Th ese are over infla tion and under in fla tion. Lets tyre pressure is an invi ta tion to disas ter even if the have lost their lives. Who would be next? No one take a look at how they can af fect your tyres and tyres are brand new! It is a time bomb wait ing for knows, but may it never be you. cause disas ter and what could be done to main tain the right time to explode. The impli ca tion is that invi ta tion to disaster even if the tyres are brand If you run a check on you tyre pres sures now a proper pres sure for your tyres and so pre vent or each time such a ve hi cle is driv ing; the oc cu pants new! It is a time bomb wait ing for the right time with a quality tyre pres sure gauge (not the abused/ dras ti cally min i mize blowout and other forms of are facing grave dan ger with out be ing aware of to ex plode. The im pli ca tion is that each time such overused road side vulcan iz ers gauge), you will tyre fail ures. it. Flip through any of our daily news pa pers and a vehi cle is driving; the occu pants are facing grave ap pre ci ate why the above alarm is sounded. Such you will be shocked with news of fatal road traffic dan ger with out be ing aware of it. Flip through any a check may re veal that at least one of your tyres is Blowouts; un der-infla tion is the cause crashes as a re sult of tyre blowouts. These crashes of our daily newspa pers and you will be shocked in cor rectly in flated. Very few ve hi cles, if any, will pass Un der-in fla tion is the ma jor cause of tyre blowouts. is irrespective of your gender,societal status,vehicle with news of ghastly mo tor ac ci dents as a result of this test. In cor rect tyre pres sure is the No. 1 cause of When a tyre is under in flated, it in creases what is type,driving experience,political leaning or even tyre blowouts. Top mili tary offi cers, top government tyre blow-outs, sud den tyre fail ures and pre ma ture known as the ROLLING RE SIS TANCE (RR) as the time of travel. Who would be next? No one knows, func tionar ies, top busi ness ex ec u tives as well as tyre wear. In correct tyre pressure is an invi ta tion vehi cles move. RR gener ates a tremendous amount but may it never be you. or di nary peo ple have lost their lives. Who would to disas ter even if the tyres are brand new! It is a of heat that could make your tyre explode like a If you run a check on you tyre pressures now be next? No one knows, but may it never be you. time bomb waiting for the right time to ex plode. bomb. Such an ex plo sion (blowout) will desta bilise with a qual ity tyre pres sure gauge (not the abused/ If you run a check on you tyre pres sures now The im pli ca tion is that each time such a ve hi cle is the bal ance lead ing to a crash and disaster. overused road side vulcan iz ers gauge), you will with a qual ity tyre pres sure gauge (not the abused/ driv ing; the oc cu pants are fac ing grave dan ger with out Un der-in fla tion is the ma jor cause of tyre blowouts. ap pre ci ate why the above alarm is sounded. Such overused road side vulcan iz ers gauge), you will be ing aware of it. Flip through any of our daily When a tyre is under in flated, it in creases what is a check may re veal that at least one of your tyres ap pre ci ate why the above alarm is sounded. Such newspa pers and you will be shocked with news of known as the ROLLING RE SIS TANCE (RR) as the is in cor rectly in flated. Very few ve hi cles, if any, will a check may reveal that at least one of your tyres is ghastly motor ac cidents as a result of tyre blowouts. vehi cles move. RR gener ates a tremendous amount pass this test. In cor rect tyre pres sure is the No. 1 incor rectly in flated. Very few ve hi cles, if any, will pass Top mil i tary of fi cers, top govern ment func tionar ies, of heat that could make your tyre explode like a cause of tyre blow-outs, sudden tyre fail ures and this test. In cor rect tyre pres sure is the No. 1 cause of top busi ness ex ec u tives as well as or di nary peo ple bomb. Such an ex plo sion (blowout) will desta bilise pre ma ture tyre wear. Incor rect tyre pressure is an tyre blow-outs, sudden tyre failures and prema ture have lost their lives. Who would be next? No one the bal ance lead ing to a crash and possible disas ter. THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER AUGUST 7, 2021 38 MARKET PLACE with Omolabake Fasogbon... 08155131874

L-R: Rotarian Wuyiwa Akintunde; Rotarian Olayinka Ogunsan; Rotarian John Odiboh; Rotarian Modupe Sewoniku; President, Rotarian Victor Amarae- gbu; Rotarian Olamide Abegunde; Rotarian Deji Shonuga; and Rotarian Adebukunola Soile-Balogun at the presidential handover and awards night of Rotary Club of Akowonjo, Lagos… recently Mr-Mohammed Shuaibu representing CAKASA CEO-making a speech Lush Hair Academy Produces Cakasa Delivers Sanitary Care First Set of Graduates Indigenous hair extension brand, have chosen a path in hairstyling. Lush Hair has produced the first set Loads of entries were received and Packs to Female Students of graduates from its academy as part 15 students followed through, this of its empowerment programmes. clearly shows dedication and hard The menstrual health and and children. girls and does indeed reduce the empowering the girl child starts The new graduates, numbering work on their past, so we celebrate hygiene needs of adolescent girls Represented by General Man- risk of school dropout.” from the home because the family 15 were certified professional bridal every one of them. We are most were placed on the front burner ager, Financial Services, Cakasa He admonished the girls to is the first change instrument stylist having completed an initial confident that they will excel out when 1,500 female adolescent Nigeria Limited, Mr. Mohammed live a purpose-driven life. which a girl encounters.” 7-week course in bridal styling and there as they have learnt from the students in Agege, on Tuesday, Shuaibu, the NGO’s Chairman “Please note that having a good She stated that a girl must be fulfilled the requirements to major best hands in the industry.” July 27, received free personal said, “We are ardent on empower- life, which includes education, ac- treated specially as training a girl in the field. Also speaking, CEO of Tobbies hygiene kits. ing the adolescent girl because cess to good health services, and meant training a nation. The graduation ceremony held Touch, Tobiloba Ogunbiyi -the The packs which were handed adolescence is a critical period in participation in the community, Mrs Solarin then admonished at the academy in Surulere and celebrity hairstylist who coached the over to them at the Annual the transition from childhood to is your right. It is not an option. young girls to be focused as the well attended by stylists, Lush hair graduands from the basics through Free Summer Empowerment adulthood.” An empowered girl child means future belonged to them. staff and one of Lush hair Brand to completion said, “congratulations Day – Care Pack Initiative being Engr. Yaro revealed that from you would have healthier families Speaking with journalists on Ambassadors, Denrele Edun. to all our students who benefited driven by Ornaments of Grace the CEF partnership with OGAV, in the future. It also means that the occasion, the President and Speaking at the ceremony,Brand from first ever Lush Hair Academic and Virtue (OGAV) and Cakasa 10 girls were already enjoying you will not be poor. Education Founder, OGAV, Mrs Busola Manager of Lush Hair, Ritambhara scholarship. You should feel very Ebenezer Foundation (CEF) held scholarships up to tertiary level. will bring you a steady income. Kolade said, “The main objective Kakkar extolled the graduands, add- proud finding yourselves at the start- at Government Senior College, According to him, “All over the Beyond all these, it means Nigeria for the day is to support the girl ing that they have demonstrated ing point of this glorious adventure Agege, contained reusable sanitary world, girls face unique challenges would have a better economy child as times as these are very passion and commitment to the and we have no doubt that you will towels and underwear, toiletries, during adolescence, with the because not only men would unprecedented times which expose training. excel beyond expectations.” face masks, hand sanitisers and ominous prospect of increased be driving big companies, but the girl child to many hazards.” “Today, we joyfully celebrate with One of the graduands who also writing materials. school dropout, child marriage and you will also. And more than “In supporting the girls, a our very first set of graduates who won the award of the best student In his speech on the occasion, pregnancy, sexually transmitted anything, it is always the right hand of fellowship extends to the have shown dedication and passion 2021, Ogunseye Temitope thanked the Chairman, Cakasa Ebenezer disease, and HIV infection, and, thing to do – that everyone must parents because we are giving the right from the commencement of the the company for the privilege and Foundation and Managing Direc- even more sadly, the experience be empowered to do great things.” girls, not only personal hygiene programme, now they have become promised to make a good use of tor, Cakasa Nigeria Limited, Engr. of violence.” He concluded. items but school materials and professional bridal stylists and we the knowledge acquired. Philip Balami Yaro said that the Engr. Yaro continued, “Re- In her remarks at the event, food items as well. The girl child can’t be prouder. It would be recalled that Lush Hair NGO was proud to be identi- searchers have noted that better the Lagos State Tutor General is not in isolation and so we are “We cannot contain our pride as had earlier in the year unveiled its fied with the initiative because sanitary care and reproductive and Permanent Secretary in the looking out for her in totality. As what started off like an ordinary hairstyling Academy to train both empowering young girls was health education for indigent Ministry of Education, Mrs we look out for the girl child, we piece of idea has steadily meta- existing stylists and aspiring Nigerian fundamental to their objective of schoolgirls does indeed improve Titilayo Margaret Solarin, said are looking out for their parents morphosed into a life changing youth who have expressed interest in enhancing the lives of women school attendance by adolescent that “changing the narrative of as well. project for Nigerian youths who professional hair making and styling. SON Deploys Standards to FG, CSR-in-Action Unveil Sustainability Sustain Growth, Development Report on Nigerian Businesses The Standards Organization of responsibility of taking a critical look at all levels to get greater buy-in The federal government has un- The report is endorsed by the good reference point for investors, Nigeria, SON, efforts to live up to its at the structure, processes, practices into it’s programs and activities that veiled the 2020 Corporate Sustainable Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade most especially now that Nigerian mandate of protecting Nigeria and and service offerings as well as public are targeted at customer satisfaction, Investor Report (CSIR): Nigeria, to & Investment, and supported by government seeks to ramp up inflow Nigerians from the adverse effect of perception of the organization was set consumer protection and welfare guide investors on opportunities in Global Rights and the Open Society of Foreign Direct Investments (FDI) fake and substandard products was up in order to assist in developing a as well as the positive growth of the the country. Foundation. into the country. further given a boost last Tuesday at a template to address operational service nation’s economy. Developed by Africa’s foremost The CSIR is modelled after He added that Nigeria generated one day capacity building workshop delivery and staff welfare challenges to He said “without doubt these Sustainability Consulting and international reports on sustainable $2.6 billion in FDI last year. for Journalists in Lagos. entrench equity and fairness in service efforts have begun yielding fruits as Advocacy outfit, CSR-in-Action, investment and certified a valuable “I am optimistic that this report will Declaring the workshop open, delivery as well as staff welfare and the organization is working with the the landmark research document source of information for anybody be beneficial in providing key investors Director General of the Standards provide greater opportunities for staff National Assembly to strenghten its analyses the sustainability progress seeking to do business in the West with additional information to make Organization of Nigeria, SON, Mal- to better contribute to the attainment quality infrastructure such as equip- of companies operating in Nigeria African region, especially Nigeria. informed decisions on investment lam Farouk Salim set the tone for the of organisational goals. ping regional laboratories to bring our and provides critical insights into the While unveiling the document in opportunities in the country. day’s discuss when he assured of his Salim said his organisation is services nearer to the stakeholders and sustainability approach of Nigerian Abuja, Minister for Industry, Trade & “The report has been developed in readiness and that of the Executive committed to improving on its make greater contributions to the companies in line with Environmental, Investment, Otunba Adeniyi Adebayo, line with leading practices, effectively Management team to make SON better communication with stakeholders diversification of the nation’s economy.” Social and Governance (ESG) factors. affirmed that the document is a documenting corporate strategies being by building on existing structures and executed by local companies in their past achievements, thereby improv- quest for sustainability.” ing on its service delivery as well Now in its 4th edition, the 2020 as relationships with stake holders Microsoft 4Afrika, IFC Partner for Africa’s Agri-food CSIR features and rates 210 organ- including the media. To support digital transformation in platforms and IFC’s Agribusiness The first pilots aim to support 50,000 and regulatory issues. Agribusiness isations across seven sectors of the Since his assumption of office as the Africa’s agribusiness sector, modernise Leadership Program to help small- farmers and at least 50 cooperatives. contributes about 25 percent of Africa’s Nigerian economy. Director General of SON 10 months supply chains and boost farmers’ scale farmers, their cooperatives, and Digital technology can improve GDP and 70 percent of its employment. Contributors to the report included: ago, Mallam Salim has interacted productivity and incomes, Microsoft, “last mile retailers” access information the operation of key supply chains “Now more than ever, we need to Executive Director, Nigerian Human extensively with different categories through its 4Afrika initiative, and IFC and digital tools to strengthen farming in the food system through greater pay close attention to how agri-tech Rights Commission (NHRC),Tony of stakeholders on how to collectively recently partnered to make digital practices, build business professionalism agricultural efficiencies, improved busi- organisations transform digitally, what Ojukwu Esq; Founder/CEO, take SON to greater heights in the tools and training resources more and improve food security and trace- ness practices, traceability, food safety challenges they face acquiring new Emerging Africa Capital Group, overall good of the Economy the people. accessible to small-scale farmers, and ability throughout the supply chain. and, access to finance. However, the technologies, and the daily challenges Toyin Sanni; Chair, Mobile Software In this regard he revealed that an agriculture-linked small businesses. A mobile platform will be piloted use of digital tools in Africa’s agriculture they may be facing in the area of digital Solutions Limited, Chris Uwaje, and independent committee of distin- The partnership will leverage among farmers including in Kenya, sector remains limited, often because of skills development. Microsoft 4Afrika’s Group CEO, Access Bank Plc, Dr. guished Nigerians charged with the Microsoft 4Afrika’s unique digital Nigeria, Cote d’Ivoire, and Uganda. infrastructure, affordability, awareness, strategy is to invest in agri-tech. Herbert Wigwe. THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER AUGUST 7, 2021 39 SPORTS XTRA Iheanacho Primed to Halt Old Club, Man City in Community Shield Leicester City striker Kelechi is indeed looking forward to He said, “it’s been going quite “The fans always make an gers, the U17 World Cup winner named alongside the likes Iheanacho was in prolific form a chance to begin the season well, we’ve been working really impact. Playing without sup- said: They’re quite similar in of Yakubu Aiyegbeni and last season as the Foxes won the with a piece of silverware. hard, running, so I think we are porters is something we don’t some ways, and different as Nwankwo Kanu, he related Emirates FA Cup and enjoyed “Yes, it’s very important. It’s ready.” want but it was something we well. The two managers are thus: “I didn’t even know an impressive campaign in the a trophy that we want to win, The FA Cup victory against have to deal with. We are happy great managers, they have that! Haha. I didn’t even Premier League. so we need to really come out Chelsea means a lot to Iheana- to have them back. They really their different tactics. I’ve had know that but yeah hopefully And now, back at Wembley strong and work hard, defen- cho. “It means a lot. It was a made a great impact in the FA the opportunity to play for them I will get the goals and join today for the FA Community sively and offensively. We know dream for everyone. For me, for Cup final and hopefully they both. They are both wonderful that. Of course, we need to Shield against his former club that they’re a good side, so we my family, for Leicester City, for will make a good impact in the managers. Hopefully our tactics concentrate on the games and Manchester City, he hopes he need to work really hard to get the fans. For everyone, it was Community Shield as well, and will work on the day, though, take it one game at a time, and can hit the ground running for the win,” Iheanacho said. a dream. It’s been a long time into the new season.” and we will get the win. hopefully I will get It. Of course, 2021-22. On how he has been prepar- coming. Everyone is happy and Comparing his old manager, Asked how he feels to be I will do more.” The Super Eagles striker ing ahead of the match. we are still living the dream. Pep Guardiola, to Brendan Rod- Dalung Blasts Sports Minister, Says He’s Incompetent

Former Minister of Sports, “When I was the minister, Solomon Dalung, has blamed I continued from where my Sunday Dare led Ministry of predecessor ended. When we Youth and Sports Develop- get to the field, we built on ment for what he described previous successes and Nigeria as “show of shame” meted on did very well. Team Nigeria at the ongoing “Dissolving federations Tokyo 2020 Olympics. three months to Olympics is Speaking on Arise TV an indication that we are not yesterday, Dalung accused prepared for Olympics. No the sports minister of failing general dissolves his troops on to provide leadership that could the eve of an attack and expect protect the image of country. to win a war. The dissolved The sports minister Dare had boards have trained and catered in April dissolved the boards for the he athletes for more than of 31 National Sports Federa- two years. Crises are part of tions and constituted three-man human existence, the manage- Caretaker Committees to take ment is what determines the charge of the federations. quality of leadership. I inherited He said that even when many crises, but I resolved them. he was in charge of sports “Leadership is about taking in the country the federations responsibilities. When things were never crises free, but he go wrong, somebody has to ensured that athletes and other be responsible. The entire drama sportsmen and women were of shame is avoidable. This is not affected. a shame that the country has Asked on what was found itself.” responsible for Team Nigeria’s Team Nigeria suffered jersey woes at the ongoing Olympics, shortage, athletes disqualification Dalung said, “I think the that resulted in protest, public Kelechi Iheanacho in action dissolution of boards. It is a outcries by members of the lack of patriotic political will team; and conflict among to consolidate on the gains on officials and athletes over UEFA Sacks Data Staff Following Police Raid on Headquarters the ground. Samsung 5G phones. The Union of European Foot- PA news agency, UEFA said it not concern the sales of rights or tion. ball Associations (UEFA) has had terminated contracts of the any commercial arrangements “As an injured party, UEFA sacked staff in its information members of staff with immedi- with official partners. has constituted itself as a private Moses Simon Helps Nantes Draw and communication technology ate effect. “UEFA terminated the claimant in the preliminary (ICT) department after a police “We can confirm that the pub- employment contracts with proceedings. against Monaco in Ligue 1 Opener raid on its Swiss headquarters. lic prosecutor of the canton of the staff concerned with im- “We are very satisfied with The public prosecutor in the Vaud initiated an investigation mediate effect. the way the investigation Super Eagles forward Moses assist to Jean-Charles Castelletto’s UEFA office in Nyon initiated against certain activities con- “Our organisation co- is conducted by the pros- Simon delivered a satisfactory equaliser for the Yellow Canaries an investigation into members ducted by former staff members operated immediately and ecutor of the canton of performance to help Nantes yesterday night. of staff at European football’s of the UEFA ICT department. fully with the Swiss authorities Vaud. begin their 2021/22 Ligue 1 The Nigerian international governing body, which led po- “The investigation is in re- when contacted on the matter “Since the proceedings campaign positively with a swung in an inch-perfect lice officers to visit the premises lation to arrangements with and will continue to provide are still ongoing, we are 1-1 draw against Monaco at corner kick which Camer- in April. external ICT service providers to every possible assistance to the not able to provide further In a statement released to the the detriment of UEFA, and does authorities with their investiga- information for the time being.” the Stade Louis II. oonian centre-back Castelletto Nantes escaped relegation guided into the back of the by the whiskers last season but net three minutes before the will be happy with a point in interval to drag Nantes back Los Angeles FC Sign Ibeagha from New York City FC the opening match of the new on levelled terms. Major League Soccer club Ibeagha is credited with 64 was AC Horsens in Denmark said. campaign against a side that Monaco enjoyed more than Los Angeles FC have an- appearances in the American and had loan spells with FC “With his experience, we finished third in Ligue 1. two-thirds of the ball pos- nounced the acquisition of top-flight, all of them in the co- Fredericia and Fram Reyk- believe he will be a great fit Monaco had the best home session and were constantly Warri-born defender Sebastien lours of New York City, where javík before returning to and is an important addition record in the French top-flight on the front foot but found Ibeagha from New York City he spent three years. America to sign for Hous- to our Club.” last term with 41 points from a determined Nantes side FC in exchange for $150,000 The 29-year-old began his ton Dynamo in 2016. Ibeagha, a former United 19 games and Niko Kovac’s difficult to break down. in General Allocation Money career at the Houston Dynamo “Sebastien is a key States U20 international, was men appeared to have picked None of the two teams (GAM). Academy before enjoying acquisition for us at this named the 2017 USL Defender off from where they left off with could outwit the other after LAFC will receive an addi- a collegiate career at Duke stage of the season,” LAFC of the Year and was also named the break as Nantes secured tional $50,000 in GAM if certain University from 2010-2013. Co-President & General to the 2017 USL All-League First an early goal. incentives are met. His first professional club Manager John Thorrington Team. Brazilian full-back Ciao their first point against Henrique put in a great cross Monaco in seven meetings. to which Cape Verde Islands Before kick-off, Monaco had forward Gelson Martins won their last six face-offs supplied a fine right-foot with Nantes, handing them Aluko Close to Ipswich Move finish to hand the home side two 2-1 defeats in Ligue 1 Forgotten Nigerian forward Derby County side. a transfer embargo for their play as a striker, supporting a 14th-minute lead. last term. Omatsone Aluko is closing It however did not turn out inability to land their man. striker, or on the right-wing. Last season, Simon waited Seven minutes from time, in on a move to League One well for Aluko as the Derby However, it doesn’t look all After representing England until his side’s matchday four Simon made way for Quentin side Ipswich Town. The for- County hierarchy are not bleak for the Hull City man as in the age-grade competi- clash with Saint Etienne Merlin as Nantes manager mer Reading striker, whose interested in signing him. Ipswich Town fan site TWTD tions, Aluko switched alle- before directly contributing Antoine Kombouare’s tactical contract expired at the end According to Getreading, now reports that Ipswich giances to Nigeria in 2008. to a goal. But he wasted no nous dumped Niko Kovac’s of last season, has spent the Derby boss Wayne Rooney Town have their sights set The 5’8 forward has two goals time in getting off the mark strategy into the dust bin in entire pre-season training stated his interest in the Nige- on signing the 32-year-old. in seven caps for the Super this term, after claiming the the season opener. at Wayne Rooney’s tutored ria international but blamed The versatile forward can Eagles.

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Jega on APC and PDP

COVID-19 Tests & Vaccinations “Both the APC and the PDP have ruled the country, but from all we TEXT‘COVID’ TO58123 have seen, they do not mean reform. If you look at the fi ght against 26 corruption, all the people who are said to be thieves and will be years punished because they stole under PDP, they have now defected to the APC, and nothing happened to them” – Former chairman of INEC,

This service is provided in association with accredited service providers Professor Att ahiru Muhammad, chastising the APC and the PDP. PENDULUM DELE MOMODU [email protected] Has APC Bewitched PDP or What? ellow Nigerians, it is diffi cult for any keen Igboho Adeyemo is not too different. Politics is a game of money and PDP controls observer of Nigerian politics not to reach In my view, PDP has bungled many chances some of the richest and most viable states in Nigeria. the same conclusion with me, that the because of its docile nature and tepid leadership. They are Akwa Ibom, Rivers, Delta, Bayelsa and main opposition party, PDP, has been Everything is wrong with the country and yet a few others. But for Rivers and Lagos in 2015, in a somnambulist state in the last six we do not see any bright spark from the PDP. it would have been most diffi cult for Buhari to Fyears. It has blatantly refused to take advantage It is so painful. win on his fourth attempt. PDP still possesses of the failed Buhari Presidency and offer itself Our economy is in tatters. The Naira has gone the magic wand to produce the next President, if as a vibrant alternative and viable opposition totally South. The President’s apparition of a country Nigeria remains intact by then, and the hawks of to what has been a turgid even torrid and toxic with its currency at almost parity with the US power do not succeed with their selfi sh rascality government for Nigerians to deal with. I will Dollar has been revealed as being exactly that, and dangerous plans. explain comprehensively in this epistle why I an apparition for the President, and a continuing In order to regain power from an obviously have come to that logical conclusion. nightmare for the citizenry forced to endure rates desperate APC that is hell bent on retaining power, As far back as 2018, I had reasonably concluded never before experienced for any sustained period. PDP must rebrand urgently, change its name, attract that APC was far worse, in government, than And we are told, by those who should know, younger folks and all those already disenfranchised, the PDP administration that it had cleverly and that this is just the beginning. solidify its base in the South East, South South adroitly sacked from power by beguiling and The country is constantly plunged into darkness. and grab a substantial chunk of South West. It mesmerising Nigerians with sweet words that The promises by our Ministers in charge of Power, already has some serious footholds in the North had by 2018 led to little or no action. PDP had that this would be a thing of the past within a Central as well as North West and North East. suffered almost irredeemably from the blistering short period of the assumption into offi ce by the If the next election holds, it is unlikely that APC propaganda attacks against its apparatchiks and government in each of its two terms, has proven would be able to replicate a Buhari phenomenon certain colourful and powerful personages, in to be a mirage. There is no solution in sight. On again. PDP should jazz up its game by changing particular. Two things stood out in those poisonous the contrary the country seems to adopt half-baked its tactics and becoming more serious. At the campaigns of calumny mounted against the PDP policies which are badly implemented to solve moment it does not appear that the Party or its by some of the best in the business; one, that PDP Uche Secondus, PDP National Chairman what others have found to be a basic problem that members have faith in themselves. They appear was the most corrupt political party in Africa and visited the former Vice President Atiku Abubakar does not need rocket science solutions. We must to be stumbling along and are happy to accept that some of its Ministers vamoosed with looted in Abuja and asked him a pertinent question? simply brace up for greater darkness. It is probably whatever PDP dictates to them. ImI’m yet to see cash running into billions of dollars; two, that “Sir, don’t you think PDP has become a damaged a fi tting epithet to this Government, which prided any evidence of panic and needful reactions as PDP lacked the capacity to tackle the abysmal brand and it may need urgent rebranding before itself as the Party of light, that gloom, darkness APC countinues the onslaught of poaching more security failure in the country and that only one the next election? No matter what you say, that and doom abounds and follows it around. and more of PDP members. Messiah, Major General Muhammadu Buhari, was name PDP would always evoke negative emotions Corruption has gripped the nation by the jugular. Part of the necessary rebranding would be for the only saint left on earth to tackle both major in Nigerians, even if we now know that APC is The very fabric of government and its appurtenances PDP to begin to showcase the amazing performances weaknesses of the then PDP government. There much worse!” His response: “Dele, you’re very is woven up in a web of deceit, lack of integrity of its Governors. Most people agree today that was no doubt that most Nigerians bought into right, we need to rebrand PDP but there are serious and astonishing and amazing corrupt practices the PDP states are performing far better than the that superlative narrative as they trooped out en challenges, more so, time is not on our side. A lot that make the antics of previous governments Federal Government and its allied states. States masse and expectantly to vote for the gentle and of resources have gone into producing souvenirs pilloried and crucifi ed for their corruption as such as Rivers, Akwa Ibom, Oyo have become taciturn General. and such items…” That sounded reasonable but mere child’s play. We have simply never had poster boards for the party. If PDP decides to However, as you know, if lies run upfront for of course, I was not totally convinced. It was at it so bad. It is unbelievable and mind boggling. stick to its old ways and refuses to be more 20 years, truth would catch up with it in just one that point that it physically dawned on me that Insecurity has become a cancer eating voraciously audaciously creative, they should forget coming day. APC had built a castle of spittle that was ever we were living in a failed State and that we are all and rapidly at the very heart and soul of the nation. back to power soon. so brittle and only a mere dew would collapse doomed. There was clearly no opposition worth It is not just tolerated by the government; it is being I will urge those who do not like PDP to also try it in no time. Many discerning Nigerians were mentioning in existence. It was indeed a great joke, festered and fostered by it. Bandits, hoodlums and and proliferate APC. We should stop dissipating quick to realize that they have been fooled by but we still had to support the candidate thrown terrorists hold sway all over the land. They control our energies and resources on new political parties. the new, but really only rebranded Party called up by the PDP because the choice of the Party in and command signifi cant territories, particularly It is obvious that Nigeria is not ready for more the APC, .and taken on a fl ight of fancy. They power seemed anathema to us. Giving the huge in Northern Nigeria. People are afraid of their than two major parties at the moment. were not different from the inconsolable preys failings we had seen by then and our prognosis well-being. There is not much they can do, except As for APC, all is not lost. It can still drag of 419, victims of an abracadabra that makes it of what the future entailed, it was clear that an hope and pray. Recourse to prayer is becoming itself away from the precipice of defeat, It needs possible for someone to obtain huge sums from unfocussed PDP was still better than a tried and unfashionable because the problems seem to be to consolidate on the strong talents and brains you, instalmentally and exponentially, by false tested APC Government that had shown itself as growing in leaps and bounds rather than them it has in the current government, starting from pretence! an expert in maladministration, graft, insecurity, abating. Our Pastors, Imams, Alfas and Marabouts the Vice-President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo. The What you would have expected a serious nepotism, bigotry and anarchy. Notwithstanding are defi nitely getting it violently wrong, or we Party must retrace its steps and abandon the political party to do upon losing the elections in our stance as the Fourth Estate of the Realm, the are fast becoming an accursed nation with the path to destruction and oblivion on which it has the manner that they did was to quickly embark APC crushed the PDP in obviously manipulated very worst devils springing from the pits of hell currently fi rmly placed itself and the country. It on a meticulous re-appraisal and reorganize its elections. This was made possible because the PDP to come and torment, torture and traumatise us. must eschew sectionalism, ethnicity and tribalism. home in preparation for the next election. Instead, had simply gone AWOL (absent without Leave)... Nepotism, parochialism, bigotry and ethnicity It must act equitably, fairly and judiciously in the the Party seemed to have gone into total disarray. But what happened after the 2019 elections when have become the order of the day. The President spread of appointments. It must be seen not to Its frontline men were suddenly abandoning a a failed political party still won the elections? It seems to favour one part of the country at the deploy favouritism and bias as its hallmark and ship that was not really sinking but was only was more of the same. PDP has simply not gotten expense of all the other parts. They are so far in handiwork. By doing that, it would also engage fl ailing in a turbulent sea. Unfortunately, that’s the its act together. Instead, the petty squabbles have the ascendancy and believe in their invincibility the cankerworm of insecurity and begin to win nature of Nigeria’s politicians. The belief is that increased and there is no clear leadership path because they have their patron in power. the war against bandits, terrorists and insurrection. once you join the APC, the vaunted protector of in the Party Secretariat. I wonder! Should it not To top it all, it is a fact that if you remove For me, it is not about which Party eventually anti-corruption, you would be safe notwithstanding have occurred to PDP that it needed to undertake Buhari from APC, the Party will fall yakata and wins the coveted prize. No, it must always be the public stance. The aphorism is “sinners join major surgical procedures in order to stay alive. smash into smithereens. And inexorably, the time about which Party is best for our country at any the APC and have your sins wiped away and sin Rather, the Party simply went into deeper slumber, constitutionally appointed to vote the new President particular time. Which party offers the array of no more” even if seen to still be doing so. I am sleeping and snoring. draws nearer and nearer. One would have thought talent that can take us from the age of backwardness even of the opinion that if the ousted President The PDP even failed to correct some of the that an effi cient opposition Party would realise this to the technological age of hope and prosperity. Jonathan had had the guts to take on President exaggerated and preposterous allegations and fact, and coupled with the gargantuan challenges Nigeria is too blessed to be controlled endlessly by Muhammadu Buhari in the same manner his good indictments against its prominent members currently facing the country, they would seize the its dregs. For too long now, we have been largely friend, former President John Dramani Mahama, and offi cials. How come APC has not found it moment, seize the initiative and drive the APC ruled by mediocres. Both PDP and APC have a did in Ghana, Nigeria would not have been thrown necessary to prosecute any alleged major culprit out of power. What do I see instead, indolence chance to stop the rot and fi eld the best. From into what now seems to be a one-party state, today. of the previous government? If APC knew those and inaction? This grieves my spirit because it this, only the nation and our dear pulverised and He should have immediately become the leader who stole billions of dollars, how come it has not means there’s virtually no hope for the country, if pummelled citizens can be the benefi ciaries. I align of opposition who would rally his footsoldiers attempted to abduct and crate them (a la Umaru we allow a one party State to ultimately emerge! with the recent thoughts and postulations of former nationwide. This apparent lacuna in a strong and Dikko) back to Nigeria to face justice instead of No other opposition party currently has the President Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida on this versatile leadership of the PDP inadvertently gave borrowing recklessly from the Chinese banks structure, experience and exposure to take on sentiment. We all must learn useful lessons from Buhari the power of life and death over us all. to plug the gaping fi nancial hole that the APC the APC behemoth apart from the PDP. I have the past and make necessary changes urgently. Despite this obvious fact, the PDP could still not government has sunk us into? At least we now told many of my friends who are still nursing If the PDP assumes its proper role and status, paper over its divisions and close its ranks. Rather know that this level of perfi dy and crudeness is Presidential ambition that they should all gather in as the conscience and critic of the ruling Party, it continued to fi ght a war of attrition amongst not beyond this government in the light of the the two mainstream Parties or perish the thought we will see tremendous improvement in both its senior members. The air was stale and heavy Nnamdi Kanu debacle and the detention of the completely. PDP remains formidable and potent if Parties and in the governance of our great country. with the bile of envy, jealousy and meanness. Igbo freedom fi ghter. The story of Chief Sunday it allows itself to be well organised and well drilled. Let’s hope, it is not all a mirage... In 2018, after I had fi nally given up on Buhari, I Printed and Published in Lagos by THISDAY Newspapers Limited. Lagos: 35 Creek Road, Apapa, Lagos. Abuja: Plot 1, Sector Centre B, Jabi Business District, Solomon Lar Way, Jabi North East, Abuja . 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