The Nation Newspaper

Category: ARINZE IGBOELI

  • Lessons from the UK elections

    Lessons from the UK elections

    The UK elections of 2024 when viewed in the future will be termed as  historic in many ways, with significant implications not only for the country’s political landscape and future direction but also for the globe, especially the Commonwealth.

    As the dust settles on the results, with Labour’s landslide victory, there are several key takeaways  one might take from.the polls, the state of British politics and what lies ahead for the UK.

    The first major takeaway from the 2024 elections is the resurgence of the Labour Party. After years of internal division and uncertainty, coupled with a series of weak leadership that allowed the Conservatives  to emerge victorious, despite their own divisions and failures in a number of areas, the Labour Party this time around did give the Conservatives a shellacking to secure a strong majority in Parliament. While this result might largely be seen as a vindication of the party’s leadership under Keith Starmer, I will disagree with such a notion and rather blame the Conservatives for their own  defeat owing to a number of slips and controversies that dogged the Tories and eventually made way for Keith Starmer who wasn’t spectacular on the hustings.  Surprisingly a Rishi Sunak who had a clearer message and sounded more coherent and consistent with his policies and agenda had to pay for such missteps  made by his predecessors.

    Labour’s success in the 2024 elections cannot be said to reflect their ability to appeal to a broad cross-section of voters but stemmed from Britain’s wariness of Conservative Party’s indecisiveness on a number of issues such as high cost-of-living crisis, a growing immigration problem,  poor infrastructure and a tattered healthcare system among other challenges, whilst Sunak looked ready to lead the United Kingdom back to promising times, the average Briton had taken enough.

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    Another key takeaway from the 2024 elections was the impact of smaller parties on the political landscape. Parties such as the  Liberal Democrats, Reform UK and the Green Party made a few gains, whereas a party like the Scottish National Party (SNP) floundered in their traditional stronghold areas. Again, Nigel Farage’s significant gains in the election, withered or took votes that naturally ought to.have gone to the Conservatives.  Reform’s campaign rhetoric which allied with a number of British voters  was enough to blow up Sunak’s chances of remaining prime minister this time around.

    Liberal Democrats picking up seats in traditional Conservative and Labour strongholds and the SNP losing most of its stronghold to Labour dents whatever  appeals the SNP may make for Scottish independence just ten years after it lost the 2014 referendum.  The success of the Liberal Democrats alongside the losses of the  SNP also highlights the importance of regional and local issues in shaping voter preferences and the need for parties to address these concerns in order to remain competitive.

    The 2024 elections also underscored the importance of social and economic issues in shaping voter behavior. The issues which I had raised earlier were major concerns for voters in the election, however how a Labour Party which had a Keith Starmer  who wasn’t coherent on a number of issues and parties emerge winner as against Sunak who  addressed  these issues and offered more concrete solutions is a testament to the uncertainties  of politics, some have cited Sunak’s ancestry as a factor but this is the same Britain that saw Sunak, a third generation British Indian getting elected thrice and eventually becoming Prime Minister.

    I wish to also point out that the elections went on without what we here in Nigeria readily experience? There were no reports of ballot box snatching or  inducements of any kind to voters neither were there outlandish claims of victories by those who lost elections and knew they lost. Following the UK elections, I have come to the conclusion that Nigeria still has a long way to go !  The keen focus on issues and the appeal to facts by the parties should naturally make an ordinary Nigerian envious of the Brits.

    Overall, the 2024 UK elections will surely serve as a watershed moment in British politics, with far-reaching implications for the country’s future direction. The resurgence of the Labour  Party, the challenges facing the Labour Party, the success of smaller parties, and the importance of key issues all point to a shifting political landscape in the UK. As the new government takes office and begins to address the pressing issues facing the country, it will be critical for parties to listen to and engage with voters in order to build a more inclusive and effective political system. Ultimately, the 2024 elections serve as a reminder of the power of the electorate and the need for parties to earn the trust and support of the British people in order to govern effectively.

  • Resolving herdsmen issue in Nigeria (2)

    Resolving herdsmen issue in Nigeria (2)

    These eminent Nigerians sadly  have contrary views  to popular and what I will term as the factual opinion about ranching and resolving the nation’s perennial problem of the Fulani herdsmen. Goaded with cynical logic, they have danced around such less fanciful opinions to the chargrin of other Nigerians who cannot understand such opinions as it goes a gainst reason and common sense.

    They seem not to be alarmed about the numerous atrocities committed by these herdsmen; the killings, maimings  and other crimes committed by them, they are rather inspired by ethnicism to rise to the defence of their kith and kin even if such a stance would one day consume this nation infernally, such abnormal logic naturally takes leave of common sense but what do these Fulani chauvinists  care?

    Thus it is hollow beating for a sitting Senator like Senator Adamu Aliero to argue that cows are bonafide citizens  of Nigeria and thus the prohibition of  open grazing If passed into law would be an affront to the rights “moo-nigerians”! Ridiculous isn’t it, but this was in response to the bill, sponsored by Senator Titus Zam, representing Benue North West,seeking to  prohibit, nationwide open grazing.

    Readers may recall that a number of states had earlier through their state houses of assembly passed the anti open  grazing laws, states such as Benue, Imo, Cross River, Ebonyi, Rivers, Oyo and Anambra. However these laws seem not to be effective with reported cases of infractions by these Herdsmen. It is this to such that policy makers believe that  national legislation  would give more teeth to such laws  resolving longstanding conflicts between herders and farmers.

    But these political miss roads took a chance with showboating and decided to oppose the bill . Now, even if these senators sought to make a case for their people, one would have expected seasoned or expected seasoned leaders to have done such with panache and good logic such as ensuring the provision of adequate facilities within these ranches so that our brother nomads may benefit from getting an education, healthcare  and proper veterinary services which they seemingly lack due to their endless roaming. Perhaps these legislators ought to have argued that the ban shouldn’t take immediate effect which will give these herdsmen some time to adapt to the change , no the likes of Aliero had to shamelessly stand logic on its head and posit that such a law if passed would contravene the fundamental rights of the citizens of the country by banning the free movement of herders and their cattle..

    One may partly agree with Aliero on the freedom of right to movement but should such a right defy common sense?  Are these grazing routes which were permissible in the early 30’s and 40’s still feasible given the increase in population and climatic conditions?

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    Senator Aliero further argued that cattle ranching is majorly done in the North, this is an erroneous statement as most southern states have also witnessed an influx of such herders, recall the standoff between the late Rotimi Akeredolu and his counterpart in Bauchi State,  over the former’s directive to herdsmen to leave the forests in Ondo State.

    If cattle rearing wasn’t prominent in the South as Aliero falsely claims , Akeredolu  and Mohammed wouldn’t have had that standoff, furthermore the killings in Nimbo, Enugu states and other parts of Southern  Nigeria which have witnessed other gory atrocities supply contrary answers to Aliero’ erroneous claims

    Aliero was to further make himself look less of a statesman, when he in an interview with a major broadcasting station attempted to.compare the issues about herdsmen with the issue of spare parts dealing.

    How on earth, a former customs officer, Governor and serving senator could conflate the issues of herding cattle with spare parts sales is an irrefragable attestment to the fact that a country deserves the kind of leaders they get!

    In civilized climes the likes of Aliero would have been recalled for such drivel but this is Nigeria.

    Sparepart dealers are localized in shops and offices,.I have never seen or heard of a herd of spare parts dealers moving their spare parts from Upper Iweka to Zungeru, Gusau, Damaturu, Potiskum  and back. These sparepart dealers do not rape women, kill mothers and babies and burn homes. They do not attack farmers and graze upon farm produce nor do they violate ancestral places sacred to areas where they graze upon!

  • Resolving the herdsmen issue in Nigeria

    Resolving the herdsmen issue in Nigeria

    The issue of Fulani herdsmen grazing has been a long-standing and contentious one in many parts of Africa, especially in countries like Nigeria, Ghana, and Kenya. Fulani herdsmen, also known as Fulbe or Peul, are a pastoralist ethnic group who rely on cattle rearing for their livelihood. They have a long history of migrating across the Sahel region in search of grazing for their cattle.

    However, several new factors such as  severe changes in our climate, particularly due to the effects of global warming, the increasing population and urbanization in Africa, the availability of land for grazing has become limited the Fulani herdsmen have decided to migrate further, south of the Sahel and this has led to frequent clashes between them and farmers, resulting in bloodletting, sorrow and tears.

    Droughts, desertification, and erratic weather patterns have made it difficult for them to find suitable grazing areas for their cattle. This has forced many Fulani to migrate longer distances in search of pasture, increasing the risk of conflict with settled communities along the way.

    These  conflicts between Fulani herdsmen and farmers have intensified. This has resulted in clashes over land, water, and resources, leading to violence and displacement of communities. The end results are indeed gory that in 2016, the Global Terrorism Index  named the Fulani herdsmen as the fourth most deadliest terrorist group in the world, asides Boko Haram and the recent emergence of banditry, the Fulani herdsmen menace remains the nation’s biggest security issue.

    Of a truth, asides the issues of climate, urbanization and population growth, the Fulani herdsmen also face the challenge of cattle rustling and have been victims of such crimes, the issue of insecurity is a significant challenge and has  created a volatile and dangerous environment for pastoralists, these factors

    coupled with the failure of the security agencies to deal decisively with the issue, the herdsmen have traditionally resorted to self help and have commenced to carry out reprisal attacks against communities, killing, raping and maiming all in  their way. Such attacks have largely incensed Nigerians but till date the perpetrators of both ills, that is the rustling and the reprisal attacks have on most occasions never been apprehended to face the full wrath of the law, the cycle is thus allowed to continue and has bred terror gangs who have not only resorted to reprisal killings but also armed robbery and kidnapping of innocent victims who they ransom for millions of Naira.

    The complex subject of land tenure as well as the ownership of forests and lands hasn’t helped matters, these disputes over access to such lands has  also led to these conflicts.

    Thus, it is safe to say that the Nigerian Nation has a Fulani herdsmen problem and for years many have debated the solutions to ameliorate it’s challenges, reaching a frigthening crescendo during the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari. Many then believed that because the Daura born former military general was of Fulani stock, there was a ploy to gift Nigeria to the Fulani who a sitting governor had declared to be a global citizen and thus could choose to migrate from Futa Jallon to Nigeria and back without any inhibitions placed on his movement. Truth is that while the Fulani problem had always been with us since say the 80’s and 90’s,  it gained national attention because of the dastardly nature of the Fulani herdsmen reprisals and the allegation that several security and government agencies were in collusion with these herdsmen to carry out such attacks.

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    Several solutions have been broached, solutions such as RUGA, ranching, and the restoration of old grazing routes have been mooted to bring a lasting solution to the problem. There was even the hilarious idea of importing grass from other nations to meet up the demand for cattle feed. These solutions stemmed from the lack of government readiness to wholesomely address the issues facing the nation as a result of the  Fulani herdsmen menace. The failure by successive Nigerian governments to develop and enforce comprehensive strategies to address this issue is the reason why Nigeria still suffers from such conflicts when we could have managed such effectively.

    However of all the solutions proffered, that of ranching seems to be the best option for the herdsmen and the nation as a whole. A practice as old as civilisation, this requires the herdsmen to remain in a particular environment which is then given the necessary infrastructural facelifts and security, buyers can come to these ranches to purchase their cows, while the herdsmen can benefit from the provision of healthcare services and educational services. These lands which would be licensed by either the state governments or the local governments would not only boost agriculture but reduce the pressure these herdsmen put on our environment , this reducing the propensity for clashes between the herdsmen and farmers or them and their.communities. Sadly, there are distinguished Nigerians who are seriously antagonising such an idea.

  • June 12: 31 years after

    June 12: 31 years after

    It has been 31 years since June 12, 1993, a day, the people of Nigeria will recall as one of its glorious moments as a nation; a day Nigerians went to the polls to elect their president. A day filled with hope and anticipation, as the country was supposed to transform from military rule to a civilian government as the elections were seen as a crucial step towards democracy and a brighter future for.

    However, to the chagrin of millions of Nigerians and the world, General Ibrahim Badamos Babaginda on the 24th of June, following a series of rumors about a possible annulment of what has been ajudged as the freest and fairest election ever held in the annals of the country went ahead to annul the election citing a litany of reasons for the annulment and in turn sparking an outrage across the country and led to a period of political turmoil and instability, as the country grappled with the aftermath of the controversial decision.

    Rather than the stability that Nigerians craved for, the country was thrown into the darkness as first an interim administration headed by Ernest Shonekan came onboard before it was toppled by General Sani Abacha who was originally one of the masterminds of the annulment. Abiola who has returned from a short exile was to naively enter an agreement of sorts with Abacha on the restoration of the mandate, when Abiola realized that Abacha never intended to relinquish power to him, he took the gauntlet and declared himself as President. The rest is history and Abiola began his journey towards paying the supreme price.

    It is a truth that it was the June 12th struggle that forced the military to return to the barracks in 1999. Even after the emergence of civilian rule and the attempts by Abiola’s kinsman in Olusegun Obasanjo to downplay the roles Abiola and a number of other Nigerians played in the struggle to entrench democracy, June 12 continued to be a symbol of the struggle for democracy and political reform in Nigeria, thankfully, though surprising, it took a Muhammadu Buhari to acknowledge the wrongs meted out to Abiola and do some restitution by according June 12 as the nation’s day of democracy. The Buhari administration also posthumously recognized the winner of the annulled election, Chief Moshood Abiola, with the highest national honor, the Grand Commander of the Federal Republic (GCFR).

    Despite, its recognition, the scars of June 12 will remain with us, and the unresolved issues surrounding the annulled election continue to haunt the nation.

    Over the past 31 years, Nigeria has made significant progress in various aspects of its development. The country has witnessed economic growth and infrastructural development even though it has done such in a slow pace. Despite these achievements, however, Nigeria continues to face numerous challenges, including political corruption, ethnic and religious tensions, and insecurity.

    The legacy of June 12 still looms large over Nigeria, serving as a reminder of the importance of democracy, rule of law, and respect for human rights. The events of that day have left an indelible mark on the country’s history, shaping its political landscape and its people’s collective memory

    Despite these symbolic gestures, the legacy of June 12 continues to divide the nation as well as unite it. There are still calls for justice and accountability for the events of that day, as many believe that the full truth behind the annulled election has yet to be revealed.Babaginda, the architect of the June 12 imbroglio has gleefully accepted responsibility for the actions, he is sadly yet to tell Nigerians the complete story of the annulment; who did what, what roles were played by who and what factors forced his hand as a soldier to do the damage he did?

    The events of June 12 have also had a lasting impact on the Nigerian political landscape. The struggle for democracy and good governance in Nigeria has been shaped by the events of that day, with many civil society organizations and movements emerging in response to the annulment of the election. The fight for democracy in Nigeria continues to be a central issue in the country’s political discourse, with many Nigerians demanding greater transparency, accountability, and respect for human rights from their government.

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    As Nigeria marks 31 years since June 12, it is important to reflect on the lessons learned from that day and to consider the challenges that still lie ahead. The events of June 12 serve as a reminder of the importance of democracy, the need for transparency and accountability in governance, and the enduring struggle for justice and human rights in Nigeria.

    Despite the progress that has been made in the past 31 years, Nigeria still faces numerous challenges on its path towards democracy and development. The legacy of June 12 continues to shape the country’s political landscape, serving as a reminder of the importance of upholding democratic values and respecting the will of the people.

    As Nigeria looks towards the future, it is crucial that the lessons of June 12 are not forgotten. The events of that day and the aftermath should still serve as a warning to us against the inherent dangers lurking around our democracy

  • Restructuring Nigeria: Is regionalism the way?

    Restructuring Nigeria: Is regionalism the way?

    Recently, the nation’s media sphere, particularly the social media aspect has been awash with news of a plan to return Nigeria to the regional system of government which had been in operation from 1946 until the 5th of May 1967, when General  Gowon, seeking to break Ojukwu’s hold on the Eastern Region as the latter was preparing to pull it out of the Federation following Gowon’s apparent reneging on the agreements reached at Aburi Ghana. Gowon took Nigeria from a nation constituted by four regions and divvied it up into twelve states, for Nigeria, regionalism was a point of no return and successive military administrations, namely the Murtala, Babaginda and Abacha regimes further created 7, 2, 9 and 6 states respectively. While the creation of states was intended to attend to certain clamours by sub ethnic groups for their rights to statehood, the complex nature of the nation’s pseudo federal structure which placed more powers in the centre while the sub nationals were sub nationals in nomenclature alone, did not emplace the powers these regions had in these successive states, which naturally should have been the norm.

    Irritated with such a situation, many Nigerians have continuously called for a return of the country to the pathways of true federalism, the late Alex Ekwueme, Vice President in the Shehu Shagari administration proposed a return to regionalism in one of his brilliant submissions on the nation’s future constitutional development, others like Professor Wole Soyinka,the late Wizard of Constitutional drafting, Professor Ben Nwabueze and household names like Ayo Adebanjo, Bisi Akande, Femi Falana SAN and even the nation’s helmsman Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu have all made strong cases for the return to true federalism, now while there has been an increased form of consciousness there has sadly been little or no progress commensurate to the repeated agitations for the return to true federalism.

    Thus, the emergence and trending of a draft ‘bill’ titled, “A Bill for an Act to substitute the annexure to Decree 24 of 1999 with new governance model for the Federal Republic of Nigeria’, the draft seeks among others, new extant laws to be cited as “The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria New Governance Model for Nigeria Act 2024.” has somewhat excited Nigerians and led to debates on what prospects such a bill portends for the nation.

    Now, despite the denial by the spokesperson of the House of Representatives on the authenticity of the bill or its existence with the Committees on Rules and Business and Constitution Review, this bill which has sparked so much interest, represents the desire of Nigerians to enjoy again the existence of true federalism in an unaltered fashion.

    However, I am not optimistic about a purported return to regionalism despite its appeal to the average Nigerian, I much believe that the nation can still achieve true federalism without resorting to regional governments as was the case before 1967.

    My argument stems from the fact that a return to regionalism would not only play up the inter regional rivalry between regions as witnessed in the 1st Republic but also create an avenue for intra- regional squabbles between the ethnic groups within the regions. The question of what powers such regions would hold over the states or provinces could also lead to such squabbles.

    Returning to regionalism may see a particular ethnic group dominating the others as what was witnessed in the 1st Republic and even in the aftermath. For example in the First Republic, the Muslim Hausa Fulani apparently dominated the region that ethnic groups such as the Kanuri and the Tiv openly clamored for their own region. The creation of the MidWest in 1963 and the agitations for the Calabar Ogoja Rivers State or Region to be carved out of the Eastern Region are events that remind us of the challenges of such a system. Again, there is the propensity that regionalism may promote ethnic loyalties over that of the nation and how are we sure that the threats of secession may not arise or receive more oomph with a return to regionalism.

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    Those reportedly clamoring for regionalism may yet accuse me of being pessimistic and not looking on the bright side but they have failed to ask what would happen if we rather strengthened the states and the Local Government System in Nigeria.

    In the awareness that the multiethnic nature of the Nigerian state did make the clamour for state creation a never ending story would regionalism now do away with the fears of the man in Ebonyi in the SouthEastern Region or would Ijaw interests be protected in the SouthWest region, that is assuming they go by such nomenclatures? However, strengthening the states and the local government system would not only reduce the ethnic tensions but also promote a healthy form of  competition and in turn strengthen true federalism.

    Devolving some of the powers concentrated at the centre to the states and in turn the LGA’s would reduce the scramble for the centre and turn the 36 or more states into hubs of competition.

    With the Local Governments becoming autonomous and controlling 40 percent of its resources and the creation of LG’s a state affair, we would see these LG’s spurring into action in terms of development and not what we have today where LG’s are non functional due to the lopsidedness of the present structure. Likewise allowing these states to take ownership of 30 percent of resources and leaving the rest to the government at the centre would also create an economical viable and functional nation which will witness even  development and end the cries of economic inequality and political lopsidedness.

    Nigeria can indeed achieve true federalism and restructuring without the return to regionalism, all that is needed are strong states and an enhanced LG system.

  • The echoes of Biafra

    The echoes of Biafra

    Two scores and seventeen years ago, faced with the choice of freedom , survival and security on one hand and extinction and perhaps servitude on the other; together with the refusal of General Yakubu Gowon to implement the agreements reached at Aburi which was perhaps the last ditch attempt to give the then young nation of Nigeria some wriggle room and save it from collapse or further bloodshed, a young Colonel, by name Emeka Odumegwu Ojukwu declared what was then the Eastern Region together with its continental shelf and territorial waters as “The Republic of Biafra”.

    What followed was a war that lasted for three years and its lessons thereof, the Federal Government which claimed that it had a mandate to keep Nigeria one quickly invaded Biafra attaining relative success despite the support it received from a number of global powers, who propped up Gowon while war ravaged the Biafra. These powers turned a blind eye to the numerous atrocities committed by Federal troops, exhibiting the hypocrisy that has become the trademark of the West on matters affecting the Third World. Save for France, where the French leader Charles De Gaule and his Adviser on African Affairs, Jacques Foccart readily sympathized with Biafra, matter of fact Biafra’s collapse came as a shock to Foccart who was allegedly preparing some military aid package to the defunct nation.

    The war resulted in the death of hundreds of thousands of people and bore with it certain scars which are still with us today. These scars have reluctantly refused to heal and though the victorious Nigerian side declared that there was “No Victor, Nor Vanquished” the relics of the war and its effects on Nigeria remain a traumatic aspect of our national life that years on, even with the demise and aging of a number of players and participants in that struggle, Biafra as a thematic event, as a legacy, as a historical threshold and a warning that unless Nigeria as a nation avoids the pitfalls that led to the war, the ties binding this nation of nations and of hundreds of languages will untether.

    The legacy of Biafra is still a contentious issue in Nigeria today and it is what keeps fueling its echoes, the fact that there appears to be allegations of marginalization of NdIIgbo cannot be wished away, even by those hardened by belief in a free and fair Nigeria as myself but then there are allegations of marginalization of the Yoruba people, of the Niger Delta people, of the Kanuri people, of the Northern Christians and Middle Belters, even the Fulani who have held sway over the leadership of this country too have also cried marginalization in one way or the other, while these calls may baffle a number of onlookers, such Babel like allegations serve as a clear case for the need to restructure Nigeria!

    Asides having broader implications for the African continent as a whole. It exposed the fault lines of colonial boundaries and ethnic diversity in post-colonial states, raising questions about the concept of national unity and identity.

    There is no need to even serve as a sentinel here, as we are living witnesses to the resurfaced calls for a repeat secession and the restoration of Biafra as an independent state. Today the SouthEast is like a war torn zone with a number of groups claiming to be Biafran separatist groups emerging to demand its independence, clashes have occurred between the Nigerian security agencies and these groups resulting in the unnecessary deaths of civilians and security personnel. Thus while the memory of Biafra is kept alive and the nostalgia of what could have been had Biafra survived the Nigerian onslaught burns through, there is the need to heal the wounds and the scars of yesterday, the need to prevent another war and the need for Nigerians to discuss how we intend to live with each other, until we seriously address the latter, the nation will continuously be dogged by cries for its dismemberment:some germane , the others for pecuniary gains!

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    There also appears to be a renewed interest in the history of Biafra, with scholars, activists, and artists exploring its significance in contemporary Nigeria. Books, documentaries, and art exhibitions have brought the stories of the war to a new generation, sparking conversations about reconciliation, justice, and memory. There is nothing wrong with this after all till this very day, those states which were Confederates in the civil war of the United States still hoist confederate flags and engage in memorials which for many unborn Americans much enables them to connect with their past and its implications for their own identity and future. Same goes for the United Kingdom which has had to contend with Scottish, Irish and Welsh rebellions over the years, but these memories yet serve as a cultural renaissance and an avenue for learning.

    Biafra represents a complex and painful chapter in Nigerian history, but it also serves as a reminder of the resilience and strength of the Igbo people. Like I said, the struggle for self-determination and justice continues to resonate with many Nigerians who feel marginalized and oppressed by the current system, we thus must not fail to hear and hear clearly its echoes– emphasizing the importance of dialogue, inclusion, and the need to return to true federalism or restructuring!

    As Nigeria continues to navigate amidst its complex history and diverse society, the memory of Biafra remains a powerful force for change and reflection. It challenges us to confront the injustices of the past, to acknowledge the pain and suffering of those who were affected by the war, and to work towards a more inclusive and peaceful future for all Nigerians. Biafra is not just a historical event; it is an idea forever etched in our minds that even in the face of tyranny and oppression, mankind will always prefer the allure of freedom even when such appears to be costly eventually.

  • The Banex affair

    The Banex affair

    In a democracy like ours, one which has suffered from being an avid militarized society and much possessing the relics of 29 years of military rule in the minds of a majority of Nigerians repeatedly highlights or seeks questions about the complex relationship between the military and civil liberties in Nigeria. 

    The recent event at Banex Shopping Mall where two soldiers were reportedly harassed and beaten by persons who were infuriated by actions of the soldiers over the issue of a phone and the eventual shutdown of the shopping mall by the army is one too many a clash between the members of the military and their civilian counterparts, which shouldn’t be in a country where the armed forces has repeatedly held its own and should rather be  a source of pride and identity for its citizens.

    I like many of us grew up with the military in power, we were used to glorification and deification of the khaki boys, at a point I even applied as a seventeen  year old boy to join the army, I remember my journey to Jos and my exam day in Rukuba Barracks, the military simply awed and terrified us at the same time and many like us believed that the fastest way to salvaging the Nigerian nation was to join the military.

    Now, how the military which has performed a number of heroics for this nation, including its performance in a number of peacekeeping missions, earning the nation a number of embellishments is at same time earning the wrath and condemnation of the civilian populace is indeed puzzling.

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    Yes, the nation has never liked soldiers, particularly  those who served in Lugard’s Army, the West African Frontier Force, WAFF, in the Eastern Region then, the saying “Onye nwere onye agha  ka nwata enweghi nwa” which when readily translated means “ That one who has a soldier as a child does not have a child” . They were seen as the brutes of the colonialists and many well to do families did not wish to see their own join its ranks, a clear example was the efforts put by Sir Louis Odumegwu Ojukwu to stop his son, Emeka Ojukwu , including disowning the latter day helmsman of the defunct state of Biafra from joining the army!

    One obviously wouldn’t blame these “bloody civilians” for such a stance after all the atrocities of the army are forever entrenched within the psyche or the soul of our nation. The bloodletting of the coups of January and July 1966, the civil war and the atrocities committed by both sides, the numerous human rights abuses, the killing of university students, the detentions, state sponsored murders , free and advanced looting and in summation the ‘dog eat dog’ revelations that revealed how despicable a number of those who had donned the uniforms actually were! Then there is the annulment of June 12, where one general gave in to fear and threats and preferred to plunge the nation into chaos and long suffering.

    But this is the same military where a serving officer refused to leave the side of his commander in chief and guest, even when that commander in Chief was of a different ethnic group and that officer could have gone on to live his life to the fullest. This is the same army which introduced a number of impressive policies, projects and infrastructure which we still enjoy today. This is the same army which is still giving its very best in keeping the nation safe battling insurgents, bandits and even criminals, haven replaced the Nigerian police in a heavy number of internal security operations, one analyst once praised the same Nigerian Military as the cement holding our splintered nation together, so how is it that an army which has given so much to the country is detested?

    The truth is that the military particularly members of the Nigerian Army are still hung on the days when they governed Nigeria and cared little for the rights of their civilian counterparts, maybe its in their training or maybe the fact that the Nigerian society is still heavily militarized, the fact that the military still believe that they can effect arrests, discipline their civilian counterparts and defy all forms of civilian authority even in a democracy where the inverse should naturally be the case is quite worrisome. Let me state that the beating of soldiers or their killing in Okuama and all other events where the men and women of the armed forces have been murdered stands condemned, but the armed forces itself must understand that this is a democracy and the military rather than becoming a tool of authoritarianism or a threat to civil liberties can help safeguard and give expression to such liberties.

    No matter how angry the military may have been at such an affront in Banex, shutting down the business complex was a wrong move from its playbook, rather than curry sympathy from such the military will only receive boos from such a show of strength which is only suggesting that they are a law to themselves.

    One will readily recall the recent invasion of a police station where a soldier was reportedly detained which led to the killing of an inspector, or the effrontery displayed by a soldier who threatened the Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu for leading the arrest of an army officer who was violating the traffic laws of the state. Truth remains that while the army isn’t the only culprit as other agencies such as the Nigerian Police, Department of State Services, DSS and even those with “Ogas at the top” the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC are also guilty of such, the army takes the chunk of such a narrative.

    In the wake of the shutdown of Banex Plaza, calls  have been made by stakeholders for the Army to reopen the plaza, for clearer guidelines on the circumstances under which the Army can intervene in civilian affairs.

    Likewise, this incident much underscored the need for improved coordination between security agencies and civilian authorities to address how they deal with their civilian counterparts while upholding the fundamental rights of citizens.

    The shutdown of Banex by the Nigerian Army remains a contentious issue that continues to spark debate and controversy. It serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between security and civil liberties in a democratic society and the importance of ensuring that officers and men continue to respect the rule of law and the rights of all citizens.

  • Tackling Nigeria’s inflation woes

    Tackling Nigeria’s inflation woes

    Nigeria, like many other countries around the world has repeatedly grappled  with the knotty economic malaise of inflation for many years. Inflation, which Milton Friedman described as  “taxation without any form of legislation”and which Vladimir Lenin once prescribed as the perfect antidote to squeeze the bourgeois, much refers to the general increase in prices for goods and services, and has on many occasions had an impact on the economy and the lives of ordinary citizens, (Lenin got it wrong here)

    In recent years, Nigeria has experienced high levels of inflation, with prices of essential goods and services rising rapidly, putting a strain on the purchasing power of people and affecting their standard of living. The inflation rate today stands at a gloomy figure of 34.9 against the 21 4 target given by the CBN as at early January and there seems to be no signs that it would abate any time soon.

    One of the major factors contributing to inflation in Nigeria is the high level of government spending. The Nigerian government

    since time immemorial has been running high budget deficits for many years, leading to an increase in the money supply and putting pressure on prices. Despite prescriptions by a number of economists, including professionals from the Bretton Woods, successive Nigerian governments have like sick but heady patients refused to take such prescriptions, particularly on reckless spending, the inverse required to tackle inflation headlong. It is even worse when it comes to light that such deficit spending is sourced from borrowing and mostly utilized for White Elephant projects or is pilfered into private pockets and stashed in some Swiss bank accounts. This then puts unnecessary pressure when the time to repay draws nigh and results in further inflation. Governments both at Federal and State levels can work towards reducing their budget deficits, if not eliminating it totally by cutting unnecessary spending, improving revenue collection, and implementing fiscal discipline. By reducing the deficit, the government can reduce the pressure on prices and help to stabilize the economy.

    Another factor contributing to inflation in Nigeria is the country’s  heavy over-reliance on oil revenues. Nigeria is heavily dependent on oil exports for its revenue, and fluctuations in oil prices can have a significant impact on the economy. We cannot obviously continue the n such manner and while the Buhari administration did do its bit to ameliorate such a situation, this present administration must continue from where the last administration stopped. Sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and services can help us diversify the economy, increase our sources of revenue and reduce the impact of fluctuations in oil prices on Nigerians.

    In addition to addressing the factors contributing to inflation, the Nigerian government can also implement monetary policies to control inflation. One of the key tools that the government can use to control inflation is the central bank’s monetary policy. Utilizing such a tool, the Central Bank under Yemi Cardoso has outlined the policy direction of the Bank for 2024, with a pledge to prioritise price and exchange rate stability to promote sustainable economic growth, safeguarding the livelihoods of Nigerians. How he intends to achieve this will continuously excite a plethora of mixed reactions as many have accused the CBN of pursuing policies that are aggressive to households, SMEs and corporations, drenching their real disposable incomes, as well as resulting to job losses while revenues for businesses will likely flatten! 

    The decision to increase borrowing costs is also likely to distort the demand for labour and freeze  wage rates, leading to rising  unemployment and a sharp drop in purchasing power.

    In addition to raising interest rates, the central bank can also use other monetary policy tools such as open market operations and reserve requirements to control inflation. Open market operations involve buying and selling government securities to control the money supply, while reserve requirements refer to the amount of cash that banks are required to hold as reserves. By using these tools effectively, the central bank can help to stabilize the economy and control inflation.

    Another important step that the Nigerian government can take to tackle inflation is to address supply-side constraints. Inflation in Nigeria is often driven by supply-side factors such as poor infrastructure, supply chain disruptions, and high production costs. To tackle inflation, the government can invest in infrastructure development, improve the business environment, and enhance productivity in key sectors of the economy. By addressing supply-side constraints, the government can help to increase the supply of goods and services, reduce production costs, and mitigate inflationary pressures.

    Furthermore, the Nigerian government can also implement policies to curb speculative activities that contribute to inflation. Truth remains that there is a huge range of speculation in the foreign exchange market and this has repeatedly put immense pressure on the exchange rate and led to higher prices for imported goods. While the Tinubu administration has made efforts in stabilizing the exchange rate, it still has a lot to do in curbing speculative activities, and promoting transparency in the foreign exchange market. This way the government can help to stabilize prices and reduce inflationary pressures.

    In addition to these measures, the Nigerian government can also work towards improving the efficiency and effectiveness of its institutions and policies. Corruption, inefficiency, and weak governance can exacerbate inflation and hinder economic progress. To tackle inflation, the government can strengthen institutions, improve transparency and accountability, and enhance the effectiveness of its policies. By addressing governance challenges, the government can create a conducive environment for sustainable economic growth and stability.

    Furthermore, the Nigerian government can also work towards enhancing social protection measures to mitigate the impact of inflation on vulnerable groups. Inflation can disproportionately affect low-income households, exacerbating poverty and inequality. To tackle inflation, the government can implement social protection programs such as cash transfers, food assistance, and job creation initiatives to support vulnerable groups and cushion the impact of inflation on their livelihoods. By providing social protection measures, the government can help to ensure that the most vulnerable members of society are not left behind in the face of inflation.

    In conclusion, inflation is a complex economic challenge that requires a comprehensive and coordinated response from the Nigerian government. By addressing the factors contributing to inflation, implementing effective monetary policies, addressing supply-side constraints, curbing speculative activities, improving governance, and enhancing social protection measures, the Nigerian government can work towards stabilizing the economy, controlling inflation, and promoting sustainable economic growth. Tackling inflation requires a multi-faceted approach that takes into account the diverse factors influencing prices and the economy. With strong leadership, effective policies, and stakeholder engagement, the Nigerian government can succeed in tackling inflation and achieving economic stability for the benefit of all citizens.

  • Birthday tribute to Hon. Benjamin Kalu

    Birthday tribute to Hon. Benjamin Kalu

    As the nation’s deputy speaker marks his 53rd birthday it will not sit well with a number of persons like me should my pen not stir itself and dance unto words and treatises in celebrating such an enigma.

    I should have penned this belated piece last week but readers would remember that I had pushed forward the conclusion of my series “Musings On These Men of God” in honour of my late uncle, Professor Gauis Igboeli, who was committed to earth on the 1st of May, 2024. I could not again push back the series as a lot of readers had commented on the first piece and were salivating for the conclusion which I penned last weekend.

    Within the rivers of  Nigerian history, the likes of Kalu have wafted through the numerous currents which has seen him move upwards and higher as an answer to the quest for germane Igbo  and Nigerian Leadership. Kalu’s rise and stewardship seems to have jolted the Nigerian public causing him to become one of the major forces of the Tenth National Assembly. While many Deputy Speakers in the past may have been content with just the appellation and maybe the perks that come with such a position, Kalu has rather bestrode the Green Chambers like a behemoth, impacting the House with his charisma and intellect while working effectively and loyally with the leadership and his colleagues.

    Kalu has been in the eyes of the public since he emerged as spokesperson for the House in the 9th Assembly, he has emerged as a fine politico who is destined for greater things in service to the Nigerian nation. 

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    So at 53 what makes the Prince of Abia thick? As he marks this significant milestone in his life, it is indeed much fitting to reflect on the distinguished member of the House of Representatives representing the Bende Federal Constituency in Abia State, alongside his journey, accomplishments, and contributions to the political landscape. Born on the 5th of May, 1971,  Kalu who hails  from a humble background had his primary and secondary education in Bende, then under the East Central State and then under old Imo State.

    Kalu naturally excelled academically and had began demonstrating a keen leadership potential from a young age. He went on to pursue higher education by earning his first degree, an LLB in Law from the University of Calabar.

    His academic background and participation  in student unionism much equipped him with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complex world of politics and governance. Kalu’s interest in public service led him to join the political arena, where he quickly gained popularity by becoming the 1st President of the People’s Democratic Party in the Diaspora where he ably demonstrated his knack for effective mobilization and caught the eye of the then Governor of Abia State, Orji Uzor Kalu .  Three stints as the youngest local government helmsman in Bende LGA, SSA on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs  and  then as SSA on Millennium Development Goals  saw Kalu cut his teeth in the politics of Abia State. It was at this point that Kalu honed his leadership skills obviously in preparation for many more opportunities to serve his people.

    Kalu was also to engage in  several other  academic pursuits,  bagging an MBA from Oxford Brookes and a number of professional certificates from prestigious academic institutions all over the world.

    In 2019, Benjamin Kalu contested and won the seat in the House of Representatives, representing the Bende Federal Constituency. Such victory which naturally was an upset remains a testament to his widespread support among the people, who picked a rep member from a then vilified All Progressives Congress as against the candidate of the  darling People’s Democratic Party. On assuming his seat , Kalu was to demonstrate his leadership prowess by representing the House as its spokesperson. It is said that Kalu’s stint as spokesperson remains one of the finest since the inception of such a position with Kalu engaging each and every of the House’s publics with a high level of distinctiveness, let me also state that it was at such a point that I met him and was impressed with his humility.

    As a legislator during  his first stint, Benjamin Kalu was actively involved in the legislative process, sponsoring bills and motions that addressed critical issues such as infrastructure development, youth empowerment, and good governance,  a vocal advocate for transparency, accountability, and effective leadership in government. Kalu stood out amongst his peers as a people’s representative, this naturally earned him a second term.

    Another of Kalu’s notable achievements in office is his role in facilitating the construction of vital infrastructure projects in his constituency, including roads, schools, and healthcare facilities. Through his advocacy and lobbying efforts, he has secured funding for these projects, which have had a significant impact on the lives of the people in Bende.

    Beyond his legislative duties, Benjamin Kalu is deeply committed to community service and philanthropy. I must not fail to mention his interventions in ensuring that the SouthEast Region is saved from the resultant horrors of the violence that seeks to threaten or overwhelm the region through his Peace in the SouthEast Project (PISE-P) in which He has actively engaged with stakeholders and local organizations and to support initiatives that will promote peace in this part of Nigeria. While it is to early to determine its impact, one must not fail to  commend Kalu for such an idea!

    As Benjamin Kalu celebrates his 53rd birthday, it is impressive that he remains focused on his mission to serve the Nigerian Nation and leave a lasting legacy of progress and development. His dedication to public service, integrity, and progressive  leadership  continue to inspire others millions of Nigerians all over the country

    In conclusion, Benjamin Kalu’s journey from a humble beginning to a distinguished lawmaker is a testament to his resilience, dedication, and commitment to serving others. As he marks his 53rd birthday, he stands as a shining example of what can be achieved through hard work, passion, and a genuine desire to make a difference in the world. Here’s to many more years of success, growth, and impactful leadership for Benjamin Kalu.

  • Musings on these Men of God (2)

    Musings on these Men of God (2)

    Jousting against the malaria vaccine, Oyakhilome has not only incited another  circle of conspiracy theories, he has once again pitted the Christian community against the achievements of science, this is likely to create what is known in health parlance as vaccine hesitancy, discouraging  millions from taking the vaccine and could result in slowing down the pushback  against malaria and other diseases that require such vaccines. Yes , Nigeria is still prone to what scholars largely term  as the absolute dependency on religion and for as large a percentage as 70 percent of Nigerians are absolutely dependent on their religions for thinking and living. That is why in Nigeria, a university will take a whole day in organizing prayer sessions while a visit to most government establishments will witness morning prayer meetings during the time scheduled for work. Such prayer meetings are bound to last depending on the overzealousness of the makeshift church members, sadly such spirituality has failed to transform the country and I recall a Canadian Preacher describing spirituality in Nigeria “as wide  as a river bed but only an inch deep!”

    Oyakhilome much to my chagrin insists that those pushing the malaria vaccine have another agenda and that vaccines have never worked! Wow! Just Wow!!

    He goes on to challenge the figures and declared without scientific fact nor rigor that malaria had never been the continent’s biggest health challenge, the same continent where 95 percent of malaria deaths all over the world occurs in and children under the age of 5 account account for 80 percent of such deaths!

    Malaria is a devastating disease that has plagued humanity for centuries, causing untold suffering and death in many parts of the world. It is caused by parasites of the Plasmodium falciparum , which are transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes. Despite significant progress in combating malaria over the years, it remains a major public health challenge, particularly in developing countries where access to healthcare and resources are limited.

    To Oyakhilome, vaccines are a way of depopulating the world and so I wonder why the numerous vaccines in existence hasn’t slowed down the world’s population? If anything seems to be slowing such, it should be attributed to factors like urbanization, knowledge and worsening economic conditions which have forced families to reduce the number of children and not vaccines!

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    For the malaria vaccine, Oyakhilome has repeatedly hounded Bill Gates , founder of Microsoft and one of the world’s biggest names in fighting diseases in the third world. From wrongly quoting Gates on his comments about improving healthcare services and its effect on parents and an informed choice about reproduction to accusing Gates of owning the World Mosquito Program facility in Colombia where he alleged was producing genetically modified mosquitoes to carry out the task of depopulation! Both allegations were both wrong!

    In this controversy, it is commonsensical to give Mr. Gates more credibility and expertise on the topic of malaria, as he has been heavily involved in funding research and programs to combat the disease through the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Where lies the basis for Oyakhilome’s assertions? At what point can we justify such grim allegations since his expertise may not be as extensive as someone like Bill Gates who has dedicated significant resources to finding solutions for a number of tropical diseases which include malaria.

    Again, Bill Gates is a tech entrepreneur turned philanthropist who has dedicated significant resources to combatting diseases such as malaria through the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Gates believes in the power of science, innovation, and evidence-based interventions to address public health challenges. He has invested heavily in research, development, and implementation of tools and technologies to prevent and treat malaria, such as insecticide-treated bed nets, antimalarial drugs, and vaccines.

    Bill Gates takes a different approach, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based interventions and public health strategies in tackling malaria. He argues that while faith and spirituality can provide comfort and psychological well-being, they should not be relied upon as the sole means of disease prevention and treatment. Gates believes that scientific research, data analysis, and innovation are essential tools in the fight against malaria, and that investments in research and development can lead to significant progress in reducing the burden of the disease.

    Now even if Oyakhilome has issues with the vaccine why not use a number of faith based medical institutions to assert such claims rather than making a mockery of the pulpit and the Church at large?

    This debate between Oyakhilome and  Gates on the issue of malaria reflects a broader conflict between faith-based and evidence-based approaches to health and development in developing nations.

    It’s not just malaria, I mentioned COVID and his false assertion that it was due to the introduction of 5G technology, then there is the talk against the vaccine for Human Papilloma Virus, HPV which has experienced tremendous success rates.

    However, can we imagine the cost, in terms of lives of millions of Nigerians and other nationalities who not only because of poverty and the obvious level of decrepit health infrastructure fall prey to such teachings and deny themselves access to such vaccines?