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Category: Saturday

  • Culture, deletions and definitions

    Culture, deletions and definitions

    I look at two issues   on the topic  today  from the perspective that the laws of any nation or  community must  flow from the customs , norms and mores of that society . In  Nigeria today  the Convention of the ruling party  APC  is taking place in Abuja . But     a  guided   legal  missile has been lobbed  into proceedings by a court ruling that asked  the Attorney General  to expunge Section 84 [12 ]from the Electoral Act 2022 . One  does not need to be a  Russian invading Ukraine to know the target of this court  ruling on the eve of the Convention   of the ruling party . More importantly the AGF  has vowed to implement the Court ruling even as he called that process –work  in progress . In  the US  where  a highly  qualified judge   was being screened in the US Senate  for  appointment  as a judge of the US Supreme  Court   -SCOTUS – I was stunned when  the judge told the senator  screening her  that she cannot  define a woman when  both  of them happened to be women . This  may seem  like a  descent from the sublime to the  ridiculous  in terms  of the gravity of the  situation but  the cultural and political  context of both the court ruling on   the deletion of a section of the Nigerian   Electoral Act 2022 as  well  as  the inability of a US   legal luminary  to   define  her sex  , form the kernel of our  discussion today .

    I  wear the hat of a social scientist as I forage into  this topic today . It  is my considered view that THE  presidential  system of government practiced in both Nigeria and the US is based on the principle of separation of powers . This entails that the three arms of power and government , namely the Executive , the Judiciary  and the legislature operate in a system  of checks and balances ,such  that there is no misuse of power or abuse of office . That  means there is no room for a dictatorship  in which  one part dictates to the other and that is the essence of democracy in a presidential  system of government .It  is my contention that there is some absurdity in the two  events I  mentioned  earlier  involving the instruction of the court to the Nigerian AGF  to  expunge a part  of the Electoral Act and the inability of a seasoned  US   judge  and  Supreme Court  candidate   to  say who a woman is ,  when she and the  Senator  questioning  her ,  belong to the  same   female sex  of  humanity . Such   absurdity , which is a conundrum of sorts ,  is what we want to unravel  today .

    In  both the US and Nigeria  the judiciary  interprets  the  law  as it is in the  constitutions . The legislature  makes  laws and sends them to the executive which approves or vetoes the proposed law which the legislature  can override  under  some circumstances  all  within the purview of the constitution . It  is not the duty of the judge or the judiciary to delete any  part of the constitution . That is extra judicial and that  is the conundrum behind  the deleting of section 84 [12]  as well as its timing so close to a ruling party ‘s  all  important convention . According to  reports the party is playing safe and has abided by the ruling for today’s  convention .That  means that the party will not  have  its best hands from this convention but it shows  respect for  the rule of law and that is a great thing for the party . But  the party  should sit  up and be  more vigilant as eternal  vigilance  is the price  of liberty  , as well as the oil  that keeps the engine  of power running in the party and not in the opposition at election times . I expect  an appeal on the judge’s deletion order  although  given the way the AGF has spoken that cannot be done before today’s  convention . Again I affirm  that in a presidential system  of government ,  the judiciary  interprets the law as it is and is not expected to delete any  part of it . That is the responsibility of the legislature and Nigeria cannot  be an exception .

    In  the same vein , a super  judge in the US cannot  refuse to define a woman when  she is one . Replying that a legal issue can arise from the definition  or that  she is not a biologist   is a poor  judicial   answer , if any .  .If  not that she is black  , and would be the first black woman on  the US Supreme Court  ,  I  would have wished she is not confirmed because  she seems more concerned with getting the job than living up  to  her own womanhood . What sort of a  judge is  that ? Yet  the conundrum here is that she is playing up to  the  gay and gender  rights  caucus  and  that is part  of what divides the US mightily and  politically  nowadays . The  Republican Senator/Questioner  also asked the judge about Critical Race Theory being taught in a school where she is a member of the Board of Trustees and she said the school  is a private school . Is  the SCOTUS  job  not  a prestigious public and career  job which   requires both  public and  private  concerns ? The sort of political culture prevailing in the US which  has now thrown up a SCOTUS candidate that  cannot define a woman in public  is the sort  of opprobrium that divides nations like China and Russia on one side and the US and EU nations on the other . European values endorse  the sort of inability to call a woman a woman because  gay couples would  be offended , as the first  black  woman  on the SCOTUS  just exhibited in the US senate  this week. If  you  add  to that the   news  in the US that former men ,  now identified as female  , compete and beat real female athletes in some sports in the US making real girls  unable to win or realize their dreams  of winning medals as real girls ,  then you see that America is really  headed confusedly   in a lost  direction of cultural and mental  decay  .

    Now let  me end  on the   note that a political system deserves  the  results  that it gets because it sets  the rules of the game and must  abide  with them  and   their  consequences , real  and unintended  . The saying is apt that as you make your  bed so you lie   on it  . In  Nigeria the APC  controls both  the Executive  and Legislature  yet  it  has been rubbished by  the   judiciary   with  a court  order  on   deletion    in a law  ,  that on Appeal  ,  should  be dismissed as ultra vires . In  the US , the incumbent  president campaigned and promised   in the 2020    presidential    elections  to appoint a black  woman as judge  on SCOTUS   and did  so  . Only  for  the appointee to get to the senate and refuse to define a woman . I wish   this   first   black , woman appointee of the US president  the best of luck  on the SCOTUS   and  remind  her she  was  appointed in the first instance because she is a full blooded black  woman  . No  legalities  or   cultural   wars   can mask that fact .Period .

     

  • Tinubu: an icon, enigma at 70

    Tinubu: an icon, enigma at 70

    THE seven decades of his life have been remarkable for struggles, battles and exploits in a beleaguered country assailed by low life expectancy.

    The milestone birthday underscores the triumph of a dynamic, courageous, focused and resilient actor who has miraculously traversed the thorny path of life and triumphed to fame and glory.

    For the consummate politician, master strategist and dependable leader, the survival calls for celebration.

    However, the baseline for the 70th birthday is thanksgiving to the Creator, who has made him a special breed and a national asset.

    The celebrator has been a restless and adventurous youth, an academic wizard at school, a workaholic financial surgeon, a boardroom guru with boundless energy and drive, a great manager of men and resources, a new breed politician, a committed pro-democracy activist, an astute administrator, a progressive to the core, loyal party stalwart, a bridge builder, and an apostle of national unity.

    Today, he is a colossus, statesman and citizen of the world.

    Many have described him as the main issue in Nigeria’s current politics. They believe that he is a critical factor in the 2023 permutations. He has unfolded his bid for the highest office with a sense of duty and patriotism. The question is whether you are with him or not.

    Why has Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Jagaban Borgu, Third Republic senator and governor of Lagos State between 1999 and 2007, remained relevant, 15 years after leaving the corridors of power? How has the formidable and time-tested structure he built survived the storm and stress of the nation’s political intrigues?

    His successful career in private and public life is an act of God, the Giver of unique opportunity, honour and grace, who has not allowed his weaknesses as a mere mortal to overshadow his strengths.

    Political scientists and other researchers on leadership should beam the searchlight on this enigma with a huge brain. What have become inspiring about him are his unrelenting spirit, audacity of hope, mobilisation prowess, organisational acumen, boldness and bravery, determination to succeed in accomplishing difficult tasks, discipline of mind, and power of ideas, focus and foresight.

    Yet, his fidelity to cherished values of friendship, capacity for sustaining a broad followership and ability to triumph in adversity remain legendary.

    Even when betrayed by trusted allies, he remains undaunted with the belief that no man is infallible. His forgiving spirit is his armour. Kind-hearted and compassionate, Jagaban Borgu is always eager to care for friends and foes alike.

    Many politicians want to be like the Lion of Bourdillion, who is a meticulous planner, a great risk taker, a principled actor, a thinker, visionary, a democrat, talent hunter, tolerant and accommodating leader, a philanthropist and man of the people. The question is: how many of them can afford to go through the same furnace?

    A highly sagacious and electrifying personality, Tinubu is full of magnetism. A great debater, he has always honed his skills of negotiation, consultation, persuasion, and reconciliation. Although he is willing to bow to superior arguments, he usually surrounds himself with egg heads from diverse fields. The point of departure is that Tinubu will never condone intellectual laziness and a line of action devoid of masterful logic.

    The background to his welfarist ideas is the philosophy of service premised on the evergreen Awoist theme of “Freedom for All, Life More Abundant”. This is a solid commitment to the masses. But, the heterogeneous society should also be organised to appreciate its plurality and drive for unity in diversity. The assumption is that the multiple crises of nation-building, conflicts of political participation, and politics of distribution can be genuinely moderated in an atmosphere of equity, justice and fairness.

    A great attribute of this colourful politician is his ability to discover and mobilise talents for development. Those he has groomed for leadership roles have become vice president, governors, ministers, legislators and heads of lofty places. He has also successfully raised a crop of disciples and competent successors -Babatunde Fashola, Akinwunmi Ambode and Babajide Sanwo-Olu – who have built on the unprecedented, steady and consistent progress in the Centre of Excellence.

    But, his finest moment was 2015. He mobilised the Southwest to participate in mainstream politics, leading to a strategic partnership that produced Gen. Muhammadu Buhari as President.

    Not only did his efforts, along with his compatriots across the six zones, herald the miracle of political change in that year, they also laid the template for continuity and consolidation in 2019.

    Tinubu earned the appellation of a kingmaker, owing to his massive exploits in state, regional and federal politics.

    He was not born with a silver spoon in his mouth. The lesson is that anybody can rise from grass to grace, if he embraces hard work and converts the vicissitudes of life into challenges and opportunities for growth. In any field of endeavour, determination is key. Candidates for success should not be threatened by the fear of failure.

    The same lesson may be applicable in politics. Tinubu understands, not only the language or grammar of politics, which is a great deal of struggle, competition and antagonism, but also the logic of power, which in his consistent view, is not served a la carte.

    His incisive wit and strategic thinking have always paid off in moments of grave difficulties. The difference between him and many others is that this political leader always anticipates challenges. Although the Federal Government waged war against him when he was governor, he survived the hurdles. He rallied his people behind him and displayed the acumen of an effective captain. When conflict arose, he ran to the temple of justice for arbitration. The instructive lesson here is that society must uphold an independent judiciary. This is critical to its survival.

    Tinubu has always guarded and guided his political territory jealously. He worked for the welfare of Lagos and Lagosians appreciated his input and leadership. Thus, while the political earthquake swept across the Southwest in 2003, drawing the curtains on the tenure of his five Action for Democracy (AD) colleagues, he became the lone survivor, the last man standing.

    Since early nineties when he entered politics, Tinubu has been a consistent democrat and progressive who never jumped ship.

    In the Third Republic, he took the politics of Lagos West District by storm. He became a man to watch when he won the highest votes as a senator in 1991 on the platform of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), defeating Mrs. Kemi Nelson of defunct National Republican Convention (NRC), who is now his close associate. The bulk of the votes came from the Alimoso sub-zone, which has since been referred to as the ‘Tinubu country’.

    Never a bench warmer, Tinubu shone like a galaxy in the Upper Chamber. In fact, he stepped down for Dr. Iyorcha Ayu to become Senate President. Then, military President Ibrahim Babangida was experimenting with the destiny of the country.

    The transition programme midwifed by the Evil Genius crumbled like cookies. Tinubu’s career as a federal legislator was aborted by the Sani Abacha regime, which sacked the elected leadership.

    He returned to the drawing board to strategise for the future. Tinubu joined the pro-democracy movement, the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), to fight for democracy. By the time civil rule was restored, the symbol of the struggle, Chief Moshood Abiola, had died mysteriously in detention.

    However, Tinubu bounced back in 1999. As Lagos governor, he presided over an administration that was a model between 1999 and 2007. The Tinubu years in the Centre of Excellence were remarkable for progress. He had a 24-year development plan for the transformation of the state of aquatic splendour.

    As governor, he jacked up the internally generated revenue (IGR) from N600,000 monthly to billions. Today, Lagos can boast over N33 billion monthly IGR. The corollary of this is that the state can survive without federal allocation.

    Also, Tinubu fought the infrastructural battle in the city-state. He constructed roads, built hospitals and schools, created opportunities for employment and re-energised the transport sector. He initiated the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project. The Judiciary reform he introduced was second to none. Tinubu pioneered the payment of NECO and WAEC fees for students.

    The former governor created additional 37 local council development areas (LCDAs), based on popular demand. When the allocations to the councils were seized by the Federal Government, his team of experts embarked a creative financial engineering that made the councils to survive the federal onslaught.

    In 2007, he had wanted to return to the Senate, but the coast was not clear. Olusegun Obasanjo was still the President.

    He began his journey to mainstream politics after liberating the Southwest from the conservative jaw. Year 2015 was the turning point. Tinubu’s gospel of strength in unity was the magic. A merger, he said, was the solution.

    The team spirit in him manifested and it worked wonders. It aborted the dream of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to rule the country for another 60 years.

    Tinubu, the acknowledged party financier, provided selfless leadership and the quantum of resources for the novel project.

    In politics and private life, Tinubu is reputed for philanthropy. His abode is a Makkah of sorts. He is a cheerful giver, benefactor, godfather and defender of the oppressed.

    Many believe there are many other aspects of this great political icon’s life that may not be known until he opens in his autobiography. When the self-authored book is presented, it will surely inspire future generations.

    The consensus is that this great man still has a lot to contribute to national greatness. The eyes are on him as Nigerians gaze at 2023.

  • Politics, parties and development

    Politics, parties and development

    FRESH from his recent ultimately successful sojourn through the valley of the shadow of political survival, albeit through the skin of his teeth, the Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Caretaker/Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee and Yobe State governor, Mallam Mai Mala Buni, has wisely chosen the path of reconciliation, compromise and peace in his battle of wits with his fiercely determined adversaries within the party. Hence his announcement on arrival from consultations with President Muhammadu Buhari in London that despite the Head of State sanctioning his continuation in office and maintenance of the status quo within the party pending its national convention slated for 26 March, all decisions taken by the Acting National Chairman and Governor of Nigeria State, Alhaji Abubakar Bello, in his absence, remain binding.

    While the contending parties will sit down to review and harmonize the membership list of convention planning subcommittees, Buni stated, other actions taken by Bello including the swearing in of State party chairmen are sacrosanct. Another meeting point of the feuding groups is the agreement on the insistence of President Buhari that the National Convention must hold as scheduled after two initial postponements.

    When he appeared on Channels Television to pronounce magisterially on the fate of Buni when the latter was on his medical trip abroad, governor Nasir el’Rufai of Kaduna State, made very scathing and damaging allegations against Buni that necessitated the now abortive removal from office of the CECPC Chairman. Buni’s opponents were of the view that under the Yobe State governor’s leadership, the CECPC was unwilling to organize a National Convention allegedly for reasons of personal ambition and opaque agendas. This is why, they argued, that the committee’s initial six month tenure was running into two years with no Prospect of any convention in sight and with time no longer on the side of the APC given the schedule of activities towards the 2023 general elections as announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

    Perhaps convinced about the veracity of the allegations against Buni, President Buhari,el’Rufai intimated his Channels television audience, gave the nod for the former’s removal as CECPC Chairman with the Niger State governor taking charge. In apparently changing his mind and ordering the retention of the status quo within the party, the President was probably not unmindful of the possible legal implications of removing Buni or any other member of the CECPC without following due process. This was particularly after INEC had turned down a request to attend a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the APC summoned for March 17 by the then Acting Chairman and six other members of the CECPC. The electoral umpire further noted that not only did Buni and the CECPC secretary, Senator Akpan Udoedehe, not sign the invitation for the NEC meeting as required by the party constitution, the commission would require 21 days notice before such a meeting could hold to approve the date for the convention.

    It is ironical that the same people responsible for the intra-party coup that led to the sack of the Comrade Adams Oshiomhole-led NEC of the APC and the ushering in of the Buni-led interim leadership that was now assuming a seemingly permanent status are the same ones now baying for the Yobe governor’s blood even if not for unjustifiable reasons. Many people had questioned the legality of the irregular removal of the Oshiomhole National Working Committee (NWC) and warned that the party was making itself vulnerable to self-destructive legal suits by aggrieved litigious elements. It is thus no surprise that there are reportedly over 200 cases in courts against the APC across the country some questioning the legitimacy of the CECPC. What goes around comes around. Once the NWC had been removed before through means not in conformity with the party’s regulative rules, the APC had entered treacherous waters of illegality capable of jeopardizing its very existence.

    Could Buni be accused of anything that others including his accusers are not guilty of? Probably not. A seeming iron law of Nigerian politics, a tendency reinforced in this dispensation since 1999, is for political actors to struggle to win state power and occupy public office by all means and at all costs. Thus, not just in the APC but in the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and even other smaller parties, we witness struggles unto the death by contending factions, groups and tendencies to seize control of party structures even in utter violation of stipulated rules and regulations to facilitate easy access to positions of state Power. Not even the supposedly new breed presidential aspirants who teamed together to form the Presidential Aspirants Coming Together (PACT) in the 2015 general elections could put up a United front. They broke up in factional squabbles after failing to agree on a common candidate.

    What is common to both the APC and PDP today is the specter of governors virtually seizing control of the parties mainly because they are the near sole funders of the parties. In the APC, a united front of governors that brought in Buni after Oshiomhole’s ouster is imploding as the intrigues intensify for the control of party structures at the National Convention. While the PDP enjoys better calm and cohesion right now having successfully held its National Convention last year, it appears to be the serenity before the storm as the party may likely witness a mother of all battles over the zoning of elective positions particularly the presidency at its presidential primaries scheduled tentatively for May. Here again the governors are at the forefront of the bid to hijack control of the party.

    Unless the political parties especially the major ones are able to break free of factional control and enthrone internal party democracy that empowers rank and file party members, democracy in Nigeria will be enfeebled and endangered. Although they tend to be largely run as informal political structures, parties are central to the political process. They provide recruiting grounds for membership of the legislature and executive and thus have a key role to play in the harmonious functioning of the principal arms of government. Again, the policy performance of elected governments will mostly be a function of the seriousness and quality of party organization and leadership. It is not by chance most certainly that unquestionably the most impactful and productive governments in Post-independence Nigeria have been those formed by highly organized parties such as the Action Group (AG) in the Western Region in the first Republic or the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN) and People’s Redemption Party (PRP) in the Second Republic.

    To some extent, the worsening crises of underdevelopment in contemporary Nigeria manifesting partly in incessantly worsening energy costs, fuel price and electricity tariff hikes and the attendant deepening poverty, escalating unemployment and pervasive hunger can be attributed to the existence of parties that are unorganized, lacking in Purposeful policy focus and unable to hold governments elected on their platforms to account. Let us take the APC as an example. When sitting governors are distracted with the task of running the affairs of their parties, how will they perform maximally as regards the more fundamental challenge of providing development-oriented governance to their citizenry? When he appeared on his last Channels television interview, el’Rufai stated that APC governors would remain in Abuja until the party’s convention is held. That is certainly a luxury that a country with Nigeria’s onerous challenges today can ill afford. For nearly two years now, governor Buni has maintained a presence more in Abuja than in Damaturu where he holds an electoral mandate to preside over the Affairs of Yobe State. That is wasteful and counterproductive.

    The tenor and quality of a country’s political life is a critical factor in the pace and momentum of her development. Similarly, the character of her politics is also largely a function of the efficiency and efficacy of her party system. It is unlikely from all indications that new parties with the spread and organizational solidity of either the APC or PDP will emerge in the near future. The futility of efforts to forge what has been described as a third force to challenge these behemoths is an indication to this effect. The attainment of sustainable democracy that can promote meaningful development in Nigeria may most likely depend on the emergence of genuine reformists in both parties to champion the cause of internal democracy, steer them away from the hegemony of special interests and transform them into structures with clear and strong policy focus predicated on coherent philosophical and ideological orientation.

    If the sharp division within the ranks particularly of governors and other stakeholders in the APC forces the party to organize a free, fair and generally acceptable National Convention, that leaves it in a more cohesive state, as it appears to be the emergent scenario, the rancor would have been a blessing in disguise.

  • Dimming the Black Stars

    Dimming the Black Stars

    WEEKENDS are interesting times for this writer devoid of the challenges of sourcing for stories, second-guessing what the competitions would produce the next day, no worries about headlines, not forgetting the burden of spotting errors in the newspaper. The issue of errors of any kind humbles any editor when shown to him or her. They spoil your day no matter how many big stories you have on that day. For columnists such as this writer, it is the most difficult thing to sit down to do a critique of the week’s reports or do interesting prose of trends in the industry. There are a few times when you have a brain block – not having anything worth the while to tell your readers for the week.

    It has become a ritual for this writer to sit alone either at home or in any of the viewing centres to watch matches of the week with all my phones switched off to avoid the taunting calls from rivals when things go awry for my favourite club. I enjoy watching games in viewing centres because it gives me the best opportunity to gauge how the readers patronise Sportinglife daily. I also listen and take down notes on what they would want to add to the newspaper. I sneak into these centres thinking I  wouldn’t be recognised. Foul – in minutes one reader would walk towards my seat to share the place. In no time the question – are you…? Let me use this medium to thank everyone for choosing Sportinglife. We promise to make every edition the reader’s choice. I digress!

    I was taken aback watching the games’ build-up to the first Premier League clash last Saturday only to see Chris Houghton doing a punditry job on DSTV.  Houghton is eminently qualified to do the job of a pundit. But curiosity arose from the fact that Houghton had boasted that he would guide the Ghanaians to clinch the Qatar 2022 World Cup ticket from Nigeria in a two-logged contest beginning with the first tie on March 25 and then the away tie inside the MKO Abiola Stadium Abuja. I had my doubts if it was Houghton but got convinced which his chest caption on television confirmed – Chris Houghton. I reckoned that perhaps, Houghton had walked out of the Black Stars’ job. Otherwise, what was he doing in the studio in London when he has two crucial matches against Ghana’s soccer rivals?

    Would Houghton sit on the bench on March 25? If yes, how many of the Super Eagles players does he know beyond those who ply their trade in England? Instead of preparing their team for the game against Nigeria at the Baba Yara Stadium, the talk is about the deft moves made by Nigeria to appreciate what they would be faced with in the few days leading to the matchday on March 25. The reports revealed that the Nigerian inspection team members are at a plush hotel in East Legon, stressing that: “They will later move to Cape Coast to scout for a good hotel for the team and the travelling supporters. For Nigeria, experience is the best teacher. The Nigerians don’t want to approach the March 25 tie blindfolded, which is the key needed to unlock the Ghanaians. Potential landmines, literally speaking would be addressed.

    It is exactly six days to the all system go game between Ghana’s Black Stars and Nigeria’s Super Eagles for the qualification ticket to the Qatar 2022 World Cup holding in any of the Ghanaian cities. As of Monday, stories flooded the media about the likely change of venues for the game with some reports suggesting that it would hold in Morocco. Did you say farfetched? It is possible if FIFA inspectors are convinced that the Cape Coast Stadium isn’t befitting to host such a high-profile game. FIFA has standards that shouldn’t be compromised on the altar of having the game played in Ghana. NO.

    Another report in the media insinuated that the game would be played in the Republic of Benin raising the question of the deadline within which any host country can inform her visitors of the venue and date of the game to enable them to prepare for their visit. On Wednesday CAF changed the venue to Kumasi but with a provision that certain things must be done.

    – Installation of new international standard, modern and comfortable officials’ benches at pitch level.

    – Adjustment of the floodlight intensity. A minimum of 1200 Lux should be provided all over the pitch, covering uniformly every area of the playing field.

    – Increase seating and lockers in the teams’ dressing rooms to reach (25) persons.

    – Installation of completely new modern equipment and materials in the referees dressing rooms and ensure that is equipped with all the necessary materials and CAF requirements.

    – Set up the water system to provide both cold and hot water in the teams and officials’ dressing room.

    – General refurbishment of the CAF office, installation of modern desks and seats, including the necessary electronic and working equipment.

    – VOC must be available and equipped with all the necessary equipment and requirements.

    – Complete refurbishment of the media tribune, press conference room and media centre, installing new and modern equipment.

    CAF also stated there will be onsite stadium inspections by the continental body until the day of the match and in the event that the above-mentioned conditions are not met before the match the financial sanctions will be imposed on Ghana.

    Evidently, the Black Stars have no home. They would be playing under the same conditions as the Eagles, with Nigerians numbering over 6,000 storming the stadium to cheer the boys to victory. The odds are stacked against Black Stars. One only hopes that the Eagles capitalise on these flaws nail the Ghanaians with goals, making the return game on March 29 – a formality.

    The secrecy surrounding the players invited to prosecute the two-legged ties for the Black Stars is laughable considering the fact that most of them played for the team in their shambolic AFCON outing in Cameroon. The invited players know themselves except the public, although the reason for the delay is part of the strategies being adopted by the Ghanaians ahead of the game against their West African rivals. Indeed.

    But the pertinent question for the March 25 game rests with which stadium in Ghana would host it following doubt about the Cape Coast Stadium? Will Ghana’s FA bigwigs play the politics of getting FIFA to accept what they have and then do the few cosmetic works to be done in areas where posers have been raised by the owners of the beautiful game in Zurich? The Ghanaians would assemble in camp on March 21 for the game on March 25. Coach Addo would be relying on those who were in Cameroon for the 2021 AFCON with a few additional players who would plug the holes noticed in the Black Stars squad during the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations.

    For the Eagles, they must strive to beat Black Stars at home for Nigerians to have the courage to storm the MKO Abiola Stadium on March 29 for the final lap of victory ceremonies. The news from the European competitions is devastating with Wilfred Ndidi doubtful for the two matches if X-tray results show that his knee injury is serious. Tentatively, Coach Eguavoen would need to rearrange his midfield to cover up the void Ndidi’s absence would bring on the team.

    It is easy for optimists to dismiss by the wave of the hand Ndidi’s impact on the Eagles’ game. Ndidi brings width and depth in the midfield when the chips are down. Ndidi was injured on Thursday night in one of the Europa League ties. With six days to the first game, it would be wise that Eagles coaches rearrange the midfield. Kenneth Omerou is out injured, although the team has many options in the central defence position with the return of Leon Balogun.

    The obvious question would be if Nigeria can replace these two players? It is not going to happen. The coaches would pick from those registered as standby. That is if such replacements are on the standby list. Balogun, Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi are all playing regularly too. But Coach Eguavoen’s job has been cut out for him to prove his mettle.

  • Obiano’s botched exit plan

    Obiano’s botched exit plan

    IT is no longer news that barely hours of handing over the reins of government to Prof. Charles Soludo, former governor of Anambra State, Chief Willie Obiano, was arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos.

    Obiano, who was reportedly arrested around 8.30pm on Thursday, has been moved to Abuja by the anti-corruption agency.

    Following his apprehension while reportedly on his way to Houston, Texas in the United States, some nosy birds close to the former governor’s political camp have been going around saying he had a premonition of his arrest and had actually planned to sneak out of the country immediately after leaving office to forestall being nabbed by the EFCC.

    Sentry even heard from the grapevine that Obiano had considered not waiting till the handing over ceremony before leaving the country, but shelved that idea after some considerations. However, he was said to have made arrangement to leave the country immediately after handing over to Soludo on Thursday.

    “Obiano knew he was being trailed by the EFCC and the possibility of his being picked up was high. He made plans to leave the country once he handed over. That was why he was at the airport in Lagos few hours after he left office as governor. He was meant to be safely outside the country by the next morning. But the plan failed and he is now being interrogated as he feared,” a former commissioner in the state told Sentry.

     

    APC: Buni, Bello synergy to the rescue

     

    THERE’S no more war in the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The Caretaker and Extra-ordinary Convention Planning Committee (CECPC) is at peace and all those hoping to see its members engage in a free-for-all fight ahead of the party’s convention later this month may be disappointed.

    Instead of a fight, the two leading figures in the expected face-off are now collaborating towards ensuring the convention holds as planned. For the record, Governor Mai Buni of Yobe and Chairman, APC’s CECPC is back from his medical vacation and has assumed office unchallenged.

    Governor Abubakar Bello of Niger State, the man many expected to challenge him, has said he acted for Buni while the former was away and has no reason to upstage him.

    Buni has even praised Bello for effectively managing the party’s affairs in his absence. The Yobe governor endorsed his Niger counterpart’s actions when he said activities at the party’s national secretariat did not stop in his absence because Bello was fully in charge.  “Therefore, all actions and measures taken by the committee under his leadership as Acting Chairman remain effective,” he had said, just as Bello promised to work closely with Buni until the convention is successfully held.

    As it is, the Buni/Bello synergy has saved the day for the ruling party and shattered the expectations of all who had written premature obituaries.

  • PDP, Atiku and zoning dilemma

    PDP, Atiku and zoning dilemma

    ATIKU Abubakar, Waziri Adamawa and former Vice President, seems to be waging a curious war against zoning. This has been the cardinal principle and pillar of his current party, the Peoples Democratic Party(PDP), a platform he has served, loved, benefited from, bruised, hated, repudiated and fallen back upon, as dictated by circumstances.

    He has an ultimate ambition, a life-long aspiration too, to rule Nigeria. It is his fundamental right. He is also qualified for the job.

    The 37-member Committee on Zoning by PDP’s National Executive Committee (NEC) has not taken off when Atiku’s supporters presented the nomination form to him in Abuja on Thursday. The form cost N40 million, non-refundable.

    Also, Sokoto State Governor Aminu Tambuwal unfolded his plan to run for President before the party’s state chairmen at a meeting in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). He could not wait for the recommendation of the zoning panel to be submitted.

    For almost 30 years, Atiku has continually gazed at Aso Villa, assured by spiritual consultants or marabouts, as revealed by Nasir El-Rufai, that he will one day become the Commander-in-Chief of the most populous black nation on earth.

    Many believe the eminent politician has paid his dues. As one of the founding fathers of the main opposition party, he cannot be ignored, although as a serial defector, his exit from the fold twice also impacted negatively on the platform, particularly in 2014.

    Nobody is pursuing the Adamawa-born gladiator; he is he one pursuing power, which has so far eluded him. But as a courageous fighter, he is not eager to leave the firing line.

    Atiku has applied for the Number One job a record six times: in 1993, under the Social Democratic Party (SDP); in 2003, under the PDP; in 2007, under the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN); in 2011, again under the PDP; in 2015, under the All Progressives Congress (APC) and in 2019, under the PDP.

    In 1999, he did not raise any eyebrow at zoning. The then Adamawa State governor-elect had paired with former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who was a beneficiary of power rotation. But as an impatient deputy, he attempted to wrest the ticket from his boss who wanted a second term, until the General, decked in a voluminous agbada, was said to have prostrated for him. That deft move, which dazed Obasanjo, who later accused him of disloyalty, marked the beginning of Atiku’s resistance to zoning, if it would not be to his advantage.

    In 2007, when PDP and ACN upheld zoning, Atiku contested. But, the PDP candidate, the late Umaru Yar’Adua, was too formidable because of the weight of the ruling party.

    The death of Yar’Adua led to an attempt to truncate zoning, following the inauguration of Dr. Goodluck Jonathan as President. In 2011, it became a weak factor. Nevertheless, Atiku still threw his hat in the ring, but without success.

    Jonathan, wielding a power of incumbency, decided to run, instead of upholding zoning. He leaned on the 1999 Constitution, saying he was exercising his right to aspire.

    However, he was booted out in 2015 because Nigeria favoured zoning of the PDP and APC presidential tickets to the North. Although Atiku tried his luck at the APC primary, it was evident that majority preferred Muhammadu Buhari as candidate.

    In 2019, APC zoned the ticket to the North again. Also, the PDP had an opportunity to zone its ticket to the same bloc regions, having resuscitated zoning in post-Jonathan era. Buhari and Atiku, who had retraced his steps to the PDP, clashed at the poll. Although the battle shifted from the ballot box to the court, Atiku still failed to realise his dream.

    Two factors now tend to make his chances slimmer. First, the Southern Caucus of the main opposition party seems to be united in their demand for power shift, saying a Northerner, either on the platform of the APC or PDP, should not succeed Buhari, a Northerner. It will mean that the Presidency will be in the North for 16 years.

    The struggle for rotation is popular because Southern APC and Southern PDP are on the same page over zoning.

    To the Southern Caucus, the argument that the last PDP president came from the South is not convincing. Neither can the South be persuaded by the admonition by another Northerner aspirant, former Senate President Bukola Saraki, that PDP should elevate merit and competence over zoning.

    Second, the younger elements who hold the levers of party power and influence in the opposition party are not looking in the direction of the former Vice President. Atiku is competent; he has resources and experience. But the class of old brigade and founding fathers is fading in PDP. There is an inexplicable gap between the old and the young. Atiku needs skills to re-engage the disunited PDP governors, who also find it difficult to reach amity.

    However, these factors, notwithstanding, other aspirants can only underrate the consummate politician to their peril.

    By 2023, PDP would have been out of power for eight years. In its bid to bounce back, the party may have to confront another reality. There is the pervasive feeling that potential PDP presidential aspirants from the South may not pose a serious threat to the APC, which, having zoned its presidential ticket to the South, may likely micro-zone to the Southwest.

    Elder statesman Atiku evoked sympathy during the week as he complained that 2023 is the last chance for the party’s elders to aspire to the highest office. God has been kind to the 76-year-old former Customs officer who learnt politics at the feet of the political warhorse, the late Major-General Shehu Yar’Adua. Nothing is more important to him in life again than Aso Villa. Its attainment is perceived as a source of self-actualisation.

    In a voice laced with emotion, the Waziri Adamawa tried to persuade PDP’s Board of Trustees (BoT) to jettison zoning for the platform to survive. But, those fighting for zoning are also hinging the survival of the party on zoning. The goals of the two divides do not align.

    Atiku argued that 14 of PDP’s 16 years in power were led by Southern Presidents Obasanjo and Jonathan. While conveying the impression that only him could lead the party to victory, he expressed worry about its future. He feared the party would remain in opposition for another eight years.

    Urging party elders to adopt his view, Atiku said: “By the next eight years, I don’t know how many of us will be left in politics, and it may even ultimately lead to the death of the party because people gravitate, particularly in developing countries, towards governments. So, this is a very crucial and historical moment in history for our survival.

    “We invented and formulated this zoning policy simply because we wanted every part of this country to have a sense of belonging and I personally have paid my dues on the issue of zoning.

    “Therefore, you cannot come and try to imply that the PDP has not been following the zoning policy. The many years of PDP government – eight years and six years – all of them were from the South. So, we should not be stampeded by the opposition party. They have a moral obligation.”

    Atiku and Tambuwal have reportedly made up their minds on the presidential forms. A group of supporters has reportedly purchased the N40 million form for Atiku. Probably, other supporters could have done the same for him even at a higher cost.

    Adoption or non-adoption of zoning in PDP has implications. Either of the approaches could be negotiated so that any position taken by the party could become a product of agreement.

    If there is no mutual agreement between the North and South, the PDP faces a perilous future. Without the South, the North cannot solely or exclusively install a PDP president. Dialogue becomes essential here.

    Also, the Southern PDP cannot make one of its own the President without the support of the Northern Caucus. The mishandling of the contentious issue is risky. PDP may not smell power for a long time to come, unless it puts its house in order, jettison ego and foster cohesion. A costly mistake on the part of PDP will be to the advantage of the ruling party.

    The founding fathers of PDP laid the foundation for presidential zoning. Being a national party, they loathed the skewed or lopsided distribution of power. The President of Nigeria is more powerful than all the 36 governors and 774 council chairmen. He is the sole distributor of power and huge resources. Therefore, it was felt that the continued hold on power by a particular zone, based on its relative numerical strength, could result into a feel of marginalisation and fear of domination.

    The architects of zoning also knew that Nigeria was not one. National unity has always remained a tall order. Unity in diversity is still an illusion. In particular, it was felt that owing to ethno-religious politics, the President may not have a national outlook, if he is tossed around by centrifugal forces. The approach of ‘turn by turn’ was projected to give the two bloc zones – North and South – a sense of belonging in an atmosphere of equity, justice and fair play.

    But, while the Atiku camp may be right in its push for zoning to the North because the last PDP president came from the South, Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike and other agitators for power shift are also right in their observation and fear that if a northern PDP president is elected as a successor to President Buhari next year, then, the South may be left in the cold for 16 years.

    A 37-member zoning committee has been set up by the PDP to make recommendations. The outcome is predictable. The majority of committee members is from the North.

    Atiku is fighting for himself, although he has cleverly made his personal battle a regional agitation. Also, Wike and his Southern co-travellers are leaning on regional sentiments as they intensify agitation for zoning and power shift.

    How would the main opposition resolve the protracted conflict?

  • Leaders, intelligence and mettle

    Leaders, intelligence and mettle

    I draw  inspiration from the dramatic arts today to put across my point of view on the topic of   the day . Undoubtedly,   two   world  leaders dominate  the world  news  today , with one as victim and   the other as villain or aggressor  and that  is with regard to the  unexpected invasion  of Ukraine by Russia  on February  24  2022 . .Ukraine is led by an actor  Zelensky  and   Russia  by a former  spy  ,   Putin , and the die is cast with  the sympathy of the civilized world with Ukraine . These then are  the initial dramatis personae  I want to feature to illustrate the virtues of leadership that  I want to dilate on today .  I  now go back to Shakespeare and quote  from one of  his plays which  has  a long  introductory  verse that says ‘ All  the world is a stage and one man in   his time plays  many parts  ‘ . The quote then went on to highlight many parts in a man’s growth in life till  the end ,   But  it is that introductory  part that catches my attention today  with   regard     to  the role of the Ukrainean    president Zelensky  in rallying support for his beleaguered   nation made prostrate by  the invasion  of  Russia .

    It   is my contention that many leaders of NATO  and  EU and  also  the US   would  love to be in the shoes of the Ukranean leader ,  not in terms of the tragedy of the Russian invasion   but  in terms of the courage , bravery and mettle which the former actor who played  before ,   the  role of president of a fictional  nation is now doing  so gracefully and elegantly ,  to get  the sympathy of the world for  his invaded nation .  I know  UK PM Boris Johnson would love that as well as former British PM Tony  Blair.  This   is  because these two envied  Winston Churchill, Britain’s very  successful  WW2 war  leader whose historical  role Ukraine’s president is playing so reminiscently  as if reading from a drama script when  in reality  no one expected this war like this . But     the  comparison is apt   and   amazing  and  is a huge commendation  and    recognition   of   the  high    leadership   value  that the world is giving the Ukrainean leader .  Even as he pleads for the US , EU and NATO  to allow a No Fly  zone over his nation so that Putin  will  not kill  his nation from the skies as it  considers the membership application of Ukraine to join EU and NATO  .

    If  you  look back at recent wars in our  time ,  like the first and second Gulf Wars, the Iraqi  War , and the invasion of Crimea  leading   to this 2022 Russian invasion ,   and the leaders involved  ,  you will see that this 45 year  old Ukrainean pleading for  the saving of the life of his nation from bloody Russian strangulation ,  is truly  a leader in a million . US  President George Bush Snr formed the coalition of nations that stopped the invasion of Kuwait by Saddam Hussein but  his greatest achievement  was in  presiding over the unification of Germany in 1989 and the collapse of the USSR in1991 which Putin is trying to reverse  with this invasion of Ukraine  by Russia nowadays . But  George Bush Snr  was a taciturn man who never glorified his unique achievements  in his one term of office . His  son  President George Bush Jnr  was a good war leader and avenged American humiliation over 9/11   but  he too was not eloquent and got his fingers burnt with his partner , UK Tony Blair , for starting the Iraqi  war against  Saddam on the false premise that  the Iraqi leader had  weapons of mass destruction .

    Let  us now look at  the excuse for not allowing the No Fly  zone over Ukraine by the US and NATO – which  is escalation of the crisis in that it will mean both US and NATO  would  cross  swords  with Russia in the skies and that  would not be palatable to the west . But  then this is cowardice by both the US and NATO as  the sanctions  are  taken as escalation already by Russia . In addition the absent  minded  US president   Joe Biden   has already mistakenly  called Putin a ‘ war criminal’  making further  dialogue  or diplomacy impossible on the Russian  Invasion  and I think  that is a worse situation than creating the No Fly  zone and engaging  the Russians in the skies which is inevitable . This   is  because Putin has blackmailed the US and NATO on this invasion successfully  and they  have succumbed and blackmailers  never relent  once they  have their way with their victims .

    Now  let us look at the mentality and intelligence of the Russian leader Vladmir Putin who launched  the invasion of Ukraine . It  is necessary  to separate his intelligence as a leader from the intelligence on his opponents and the nations he considers as enemies of Russia . Looking backwards  with  his major adversary , the US ,   he has been chummy with Republican US presidents like George Bush Jnr and  Donald Trump . He  never liked  Democrat  Obama and invaded  Crimea during Obama’s tenure in 2014 . He  foraged into Syria and the Middle East  during Obama’s watch as president . He  has invaded Ukraine because he sees the Biden Administration as an  extension of the  Obama one with  no stomach  for a fight except on Climate Change and  gay  rights and gender  equality  which the Russian leader and his people hold in contempt  . Obviously  he is an intelligent leader and a competent one but he has been let  down  by the quality of  intelligence he was given that Ukraine  would be a walk over and that their president was just a clown .  Now   Ukraine’s resistance and the mettle of its president  has shown him that his intelligence officers should have known better . It  is a great pity  that the west  underrated  Putin and his resolve  to punish  the US  for  the role the Obama Administration played  in funding protests I Russia when Putin  wanted to return as president a second time when Hillary Clinton was US Secretary of State . Putin  has scores  to settle with US as  a nation and its  cultural  values on sex which  the EU  has adopted as European  values that disrespect family  values and extol  human rights and gay values . To   Putin , like Hitler  before him  gays are like Jews to be sent to death but  a civilized world would  or should not fold its hands and allow him . Which  is all what the Ukrainean president has been saying  in recent days to the deaf ears of US , EU and NATO .

    Let  us end up with leadership issues  in Nigeria where the  campaigns for  the 2023presidential  elections are gathering steam . One  thing  is clear there is a leading candidate   ,  the  Jagaban and the difference is clear . Yet  it seems that some people think that this leading candidate does not  have the   mettle  or  guts to make the distance . I  think  that  is a mistake   and I will  give an analogy  show how   I feel . Prior  to the pandemic we had  sick  president who  survived the pandemic and is on the home stretch   to hand  over . That  is the Grace  of God  .  This   leading candidate is,  in my view  ,  his potential  successor in this political terrain and the reason is not far fetched . There is a lot of political  mess to be cleared up  in terms  of insecurity , corruption and Fulani herdsmen and kidnapping . Only  an insider   who   has  proven  cross  country   ties,  intelligence , connections   and   alliances  , especially  one who stepped aside  before , can clear the Augean stable   of our polity in2023 . And  that is the  Jagaban  who  has  paid his dues and has waited on the sidelines  for too long  .   There  is  a Nigerian  proverb   that says –  ‘ the     stealth     of the tiger  should   not be mistaken  for  cowardice’  .  He  has my respects and goodwill . Let  the Games begin .

     

  • Soludo: A speech and the chaos from two women

    Soludo: A speech and the chaos from two women

    The inauguration of Governor Charles Soludo of Anambra state has finally come and gone but with it a lot of stories and analysis. Expectedly, the inauguration was different since the return of democracy in 1999. It was devoid of the overt extravagance and vacuous ostentatious spending.

    Given his pedigree, the governor comes with a lot of experience. The expectations are not any less from the people of Anambra who equally elected him to stir the ship of the state believing that he is the most qualified candidate.

    Fortunately, he started his speech by acknowledging the fact that the Anambra people chose him to serve them and he is ready to serve with their support and cooperation.  The idea of making the  inauguration a purely official event is a novel idea. The event was at the government house Awka as against the former practices of holding such events in stadia or some other big event centers. With the venues came the razzmatazz, the displays of opulence, the dances and pseudo-talk shows, the high level consumption and waste  of food and assorted drinks most of which are often  imported with foreign currencies .

    He has shown that he is ready to invest in local  economies  of not just Anambra, the South East  but  Nigeria and Africa in that order as he pointed out from his Igbo hand woven akwete dress from Aba women to his shoes from Ogbunike shoe makers to his Innoson car to the local delicacies and even local palm wine for the low cost refreshments. This is what individuals with global political and economic orientation advocate – inward integration and investment in local economy in ways to encourage production, entrepreneurships and job creation.

    His speech was very far-reaching and tried to address all the concerns on the minds of most people.  His speech came off as one who understands the issues and who is ready to go the road less travelled.  He understands that we can’t continue to do things the same way and expect a different result. He understands too that most of his policies and decisions would meet resistance but he seems ready to take the hard decisions with his eyes on the changes he expects.

    The Roundtable Conversation sees his call out of the seemingly docile elite as one of the most profound aspect of his speech. The timid silence of the elite has done a lot of damage to the Nigerian leadership evolution processes.  His even venturing into the murky political waters on its own is a veritable example of his determination to contribute to the political economy of his state. With his global records, it would have been easy for him to sit out and play only at the global level. He knows that East or West, there is no place like home.

    We salute his courage but hope that he would be able to consult widely for a more robust team work. Theories and practice especially in the political field could be like day and night. Governance and leadership demand  team work that succeed with a lot of humility and collaborations. His can-do spirit is admirable but the world awaits his actions that would obviously speak louder than  the speech delivered.

    The Roundtable Conversation expects an inclusive government that would reflect the content of the speech. A government that would be for the overall welfare of every Anambrarian and Nigeria in general seeing that the global economy is now like a chain that ought not suffer any breakages. We want the likes of the Ebenebe woman who reportedly rejected a sum of money to vote another candidate during the election to get what they deserve. She might not be very literate and might not be amongst the class of people to be in the cabinet but her faith in the new governor must not be ignored. The youth and persons living with disabilities must not be left behind. Inclusivity fosters justice, peace and progress.

    The Roundtable Conversation equally noted the disruptively undignified behavior of the wife of ex-governor Willy Obiano, Ebelechukwu Obiano and Bianca Odumegwu Ojukwu the former Nigerian Ambassador to Spain and widow of the Ikemba Nnewi, late Emeka Odumegwu Ojukwu whose actions at the inauguration has been trending on the global social media.

    We condemn the actions of both women and regret that the two women did not behave like those whose social status has elevated in the public consciousness. The ex-first lady sparked off a row when even after arriving late for an even she was supposed to be a major participant walked from her seat to that of Bianca to assault her. Her behavior at the event was very reprehensible and unfortunate.

    Her attitude showed a premeditated intent to display a high level of insensitivity in an event that had the governor and other dignitaries in attendance. Her unprovoked action almost succeeded in eclipsing what would have been a day of reflection, welcomes and goodbyes. The ex-first lady totally desecrated her office whether official or not. Her action on the last day of her first ladyship in Anambra shows that she never appreciated what it means to be in the eye of the storm given her status.

    However, while we keep wondering why she did what she did, her behavior again points to a system that is somewhat dysfunctional. Nigeria is one place with a high degree of abuse of power because most influential people are never held accountable for irresponsible behavior. Her actions yesterday would have prompted her leaving the event in handcuffs but rather we saw some people seemingly pacifying her and retouching her wig.

    Her attitude further brings to the fore the abuse of power and influence by some family members of leaders in the country and the fact that they almost always get away with blue murder. Make no mistake about it, they often take cues from their spouses in office who often seem to be untouchables and are never held to account. We have seen some presidents, governors, legislators and other political office holders abuse power repeatedly with no judicial consequences. We have seen some government officials’ convoy kill other road users with no consequences. Almost on a daily basis we experience the crass abuse of power by even ward officials with no consequences. There must be a functional system of reward and punishment.

    So an Ebelechukwu Obiano knew that she will always walk away with a pat on the wrist and continue her life. Reports even have it that she is allegedly notorious for such public assaults both physically and verbally. It is no surprise therefore that having gotten away with such attitudes for eight long years, she can easily sign off with such display of arrogant truancy. It is very regrettable that leadership in Nigeria does not often come with a commensurate sense of responsibility and accountability.

    On the part of Bianca Ojukwu, while we appreciate the assault and how provocative that must have been, the Roundtable Conversation believes she ought to have exercised  restraint and not make a bad case worse with her reaction. Her retaliation with a physical contact does not get her any medals. Two wrongs do not make a right. Sometimes, the control of emotion except on a life-threatening case can make all the difference. As could be seen on the viral video, there was no life threatening action from the Obiano lady.

    Because of the influence of a Bianca who is a daughter to a former governor of Enugu state, C.C. Onoh, a lawyer, a former Ambassador to Spain and beauty queen,  a former presidential adviser, the widow of the spiritual leader of All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and late Ikemba Nnewi, Emeka Odumegwu Ojukwu wields, we expected a lot of restraint from her. The saying, ‘to whom much is given, much is required’ ought to have restrained her reaction to the provocation from Ebelechukwu Obiano.

    The two women succeeded in taking the shine off what ought to have been a joyous event in the lives of the Anambra people. It is quite ironic that the sad incident was happening just days after the world celebrated the International Women’s Day (IWD) with #breakthebias theme. The month of March is generally marked as women’s month with global celebrations of achievements by women and advocacies for gender equity and justice. It is a month that attention is drawn to the cultural, economic, religious and political injustices against women including gender-based violence especially from men.

    It was very distasteful seeing the two women physically assault each other in what is obviously a gender on gender violence. Had a man been involved, the uproar would have lasted a long time. But here are two women, mothers and influential women disgracing all they stand for. The 17th of March would go down in history as one of the worst days in the lives of the people of Anambra state especially women. However, their action has been generally condemned as despicable and does not define womanhood.

    The Roundtable believes that leadership in any society is not only about those holding power. There are other nuances of influence that must be deployed with the highest forms of respect and dignity. Uneasy lies the head that wears the crown is as true as the emergence of leaderships in all sectors.

    Development is often not solely about infrastructure; Nigeria must have an introspection about the conduct and consequences for all citizens with no sacred cows. No country can progress with the kind of abuse of influence and power that is common in Nigeria. Progress comes when law and order applies to all citizens irrespective of status. We expected that both women would have been whisked away at the point they turned themselves into public nuisance. The security agencies at the venue failed in their duties and it is understandable. In Nigeria, there seems to be too many sacred cows depending on the status. Development cannot happen this way. On the part of the two women, they have a duty to apologize to both the governor and the people of Nigeria for their despicable display at that event.

    The dialogue continues…

  • Soyinka’s Chronicles and the epidemic of ritual killings

    Soyinka’s Chronicles and the epidemic of ritual killings

    Fawning, mediocre, comical, utterly unserious, and chronically thieving politicians. Boring, uncreative, cynical bureaucrats and scandalously sycophantic political aides in hypocrisy-draped corridors of power. Unscrupulous, notoriously unethical newspaper publishers and media barons who are also ruthless masters of the art of blackmail. The ubiquitous religious entrepreneurs, fraudulent merchants of miracles, and pretentious, supposedly prescient prophetic futurologists. All of these and more come remarkably alive as Nigeria’s literature Nobelist, Professor Wole Soyinka’s latest novelistic offering casts a mirror on the post-colonial Nigerian state and society of the 21st century. The massive corruption, brazen misrule, moral decay, and the resultant elite opulence existing side by side with mass immiseration, urban decay, and virtual collapse of critical social services are some of the features of the fictive societal stage on which Soyinka’s unforgettable characters in this novel fashion out the variegated dramas of their existence.

    It must have been over three and a half decades ago when I can recall myself struggling as a teenager to comprehend a number of Soyinka’s works. Most remarkably, as a secondary school student in Ilorin, capital of Kwara State, at the time I was able to buy quite a good number of the author’s books such as the novels ‘The Interpreters’ and ‘Season of Anomy’ as well as the collections of Poems such as ‘Idanre’ and ‘A Shuttle in the Crypt’ at the more popular local bookshops in town. Besides, the state library, then located in the Sabo Oke area of Ilorin not far from the Kwara State Secretariat was stocked with virtually every title in the African Writers Series (AWS) and we were able to borrow copies for at least two weeks at a time. That was in the early to mid-seventies. Yes, even then there was still, to a reasonable extent, a country.

    I can remember myself lying on my bed struggling to make sense of ‘The Interpreters’ and not being able to go much beyond the first sentence: “Metal on concrete jars my drink lobes”. Although the novel proved largely impenetrable for me at the time, I found some of Soyinka’s plays like ‘The Lion and the Jewel’, ‘The Trials of Brother Jero’, ‘Jero’s Metamorphosis’ as well as poems like ‘Telephone Conversation’, ‘Night’ and ‘I think it rains’ quite fascinating and enjoyable. Years later, when I was older and mature enough to savor and comprehend some of the Nobelist’s memoirs such as ‘The Man Died’, ‘Ake-Years of Childhood’ or ‘Ibadan: The Penkelemesi Years’, I have eagerly sought in vain to lay my hands on the earlier novels. While his dramas, poetry, essays, and memoirs are readily available in the various bookshops that are my regular haunts, not a trace have I been able to find of ‘Season of Anomy’ or ‘The Interpreters’.

    It was thus with a heightened sense of expectation that I first read in Sam Omatseye’s column sometime in 2019 I think that WS was coming out with a new novel over four decades after his last offering in that genre. The writer had reportedly utilized the period of the forced lockdown as a result of the Coronavirus pandemic to pen a memorable novel that continues to receive rave reviews. Once ‘Chronicles of the Happiest People on Earth’ hit the book stands, therefore, I made it a point of duty to seize the earliest opportunity to grab a copy. Even though the exquisitely designed hard copy I obtained made a heavy dent on my purse, it has been well worth the price! Once I began reading ‘Chronicles’, I could hardly put down the book till the stunning end when the real identity of one of the main characters, Teribogo, is revealed. Of course, there is the elegant, ornate, and extravagantly delightful deployment of language that one can always expect in a Soyinka work. But there is also a thrilling, haunting, detective quality to the storytelling that is endlessly captivating.

    The novel centers around four friends Duyole Pitan Payne, a brilliant and enterprising engineer, Dr. Menka, a medical doctor, and two of their other schoolmates who had dreams of making a success of their professions as well as contributing their quota to the development of their country. Their noble aspirations were however largely aborted partly by the depredations of a dependent, neo-colonial society, partly due to the polity’s delinquent leadership and the resultant crisis of underdevelopment it spawns and partly, at least in two cases, as a result of individual moral and character failings. Interestingly, the earlier novel, ‘The Interpreters’ also revolves around the experiences of five professional, middle-class friends among whom was Sagoe, the engineer, seeking to make meaning of their lives in the years preceding Nigeria’s independence.

    My interest in this piece, however, is Soyinka’s prescience in exploring in exhaustive and revealing detail, the phenomenon of ritual killings presumably for purposes of becoming wealthy, which has become quite an epidemic in our contemporary society. In the novel, some morbid entrepreneurs backed by powerful business and political elements are into the extensive, organized practice of obtaining body parts from hospitals and other sources which are sold to those who utilize them for purposes of rituals. Dr. Menka and his friend, Duyole Pitan-Payne are on the tracks of the masterminds of this business, who had sought to obtain body parts from Menka’s hospital,  but this results in tragic consequences for both friends.

    Apparently piecing together the nearly everyday news reports of gruesome murders and cannibalized bodies in different parts of the country, Soyinka’s dramatic mind reasons that the business of murder, mutilating bodies, and harvesting human parts for ritual purposes may be an extensive and well organized multimillion Naira venture after all.

    From all that is happening all around us on a daily basis, the descent of society to primitive cannibalism with the rape, murder and seemingly insatiable hunger for human parts across the country, Soyinka’s conclusion cannot be dismissed with a wave of the hand. The country is still reeling, for instance, from the horrific killing of the 22- year- old fashion designer, Oluwabamise Ayanwole, on a BRT bus in Lagos two weeks ago. Her badly mutilated body was discovered nearly a week later and, luckily, the absconding driver of the vehicle has been arrested. With an enraged populace insisting on Justice for the slain girl and her family, the Lagos State government and the police as well as judicial authorities have promised that the perpetrators will be apprehended and brought to book.

    For instance, reflecting on this barbaric trade on page 302 of the novel, Soyinka writes, “The infant’s head remained in a special category of its own, worth a thousand mea culpa in its restoration of innocence invoked and conferred through the cycle route of infanticide, the sublime irony that mandates commission as guarantee of immunity. Otherwise – liver, lungs, kidneys, genital, spleen – all vital organs – female breasts, fingers etc etc…nothing is wasted, all come under prescription, but the head now, even a fragment of the skull moved to join the rhinoceros horn as guaranteed enhancer of male libido, and metaphysical control of the rest of humanity, come rain, come sunshine, come reckoning on judgement day…”.

    And even more frighteningly, Soyinka goes on to envisage what more gruesome barbaric possibilities may lie ahead of us when one of his characters ponders, “Unthinkable? Just when was it last deemed unthinkable? When did abnormalities cease to be the norm? Difficult to set a date. Mail order of disposables of morbidity – yes, that much Menka had grimly predicted – orders via Internet – it was bound to be the next stage- I bought it on eBay! Blood and Brain Spatter As Retrieved. Certificate of Authenticity by the XYZ Police Patrol, Attestation by Selfie. Like fast-food takeaway restaurants where you could view a menu complete with itemized descriptions rendered near irresistible by luscious photography.” In this work, fiction is certainly far ahead of reality as regards society’s descent to cannibalism. This book should be compulsory reading for all those involved in investigating and curbing violent crime in contemporary Nigeria.

  • 2023: On the consultation trail with Asiwaju Bola Tinubu

    2023: On the consultation trail with Asiwaju Bola Tinubu

    WHAT a fitting and appropriate way for Asíwájú Bola Ahmed Tinubu to end the South-west leg of his consultations and engagements with traditional rulers and political stakeholders across the country on his 2023 presidential aspiration. After going round the South-west geopolitical zone meeting and interfacing with prominent royal fathers from Ogun State to Oyo, Osun, Ekiti and Ondo State, the All Progressives Congress National Leader ended it all at the residence of the leader of pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, Chief Reuben Fasoranti, in Akure, Ondo State capital, on Friday, March 4, 2022.

    Prominent leaders including former Minister of Finance and presidential candidate of the defunct AD/APP alliance, Chief Olu Falae, Afenifere Secretary-General, Bashorun Seinde Arogbofa, prominent lawyer, Dr. Tunji Abayomi, Senator Dayo Adeyeye and Mr. Kole Olumolu were on hand to receive Asiwaju at Fasoranti’s residence. Speaking on the occasion, Asíwájú Tinubu said the decision to conclude the consultations in Papa’s house was deliberate, explaining that he wanted Baba Fasoranti’s blessing and prayers to cap the all-important tour. “When I started the consultation visits to the South-west, I resolved I must end it here in the residence of our father, Baba Fasoranti, because I know that his prayers and blessing are valuable and will urge me on,” he said.

    The prayers came in torrents. Chief Fasoranti endorsed Asiwaju’s aspiration, while also praying that the political journey would be a successful endeavour. Chief Falae who stated that Asíwájú had paid his dues, demonstrated character and competence and fought along with others for the democracy we now enjoy in the country also endorsed him for the presidency. Those were the kind of words of encouragement and endorsement that had trailed Asiwaju Tinubu’s train as he continued his consultations and engagements with prominent leaders and traditional rulers across the country.

    Before berthing at Pa Fasoranti’s house, Asiwaju had met and dialogued with traditional rulers in Ekiti and Ondo States. Last week Thursday March 3 in Ekiti, he first engaged with over 30 traditional rulers gathered at the Council Chambers led by the Chairman of the state’s Council of Traditional Rulers, the Onisan of Isan-Ekiti, Oba Ayodele Adejuwon. From there he proceeded to the Palace of Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, Oba Rufus Adeyemo Adejugbe, where some first class traditional rulers had already assembled. A different format was adopted the next day for the Ondo State consultations. Asiwaju met the traditional rulers at the headquarters of each of the three senatorial districts in the state as pre-arranged for him by Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu. Those from Ondo South Senatorial District converged on Okitipupa where Oba Fredrick Obateru Akinruntan, the Olugbo of Ugbo Kingdom in Ilaje Local Government Area of the state, was waiting with the numerous royal fathers from the senatorial zone.  The consultation train moved from there to Owo where top traditional rulers from Ondo North Senatorial District gathered at the Palace of Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye. It was later the turn of Ondo Central where royal fathers including the Osemawe of Ondo, Oba Adesimbo Victor Kiladejo, gathered at the Palace of Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi.

    Although they tend to be insulated from partisan politics, traditional rulers enjoy the respect and reverence of their people and wield considerable political influence. Asiwaju took the decision to parley with these royal fathers to underscore two important points. One, to underline the significance of the royal fathers as critical stakeholders in the country’s democratic project and two, to demonstrate the high esteem in which he holds them.

    The APC leader had begun the South-west tour on Saturday February 12 with a visit to traditional rulers in Ogun. It was a hugely successful trip during which he visited the four paramount rulers in the state. There is a need to give a quick overview of where the Asiwaju train touched in the state and the royal fathers he deliberated with. The first port of call was the Palace of Awujale and Paramount ruler of Ijebuland where he met with the legendary Oba (Dr) Sikiru Kayode Adetona. Asiwaju first addressed the mammoth crowd gathered at the palace including some other traditional rulers and chiefs in Ijebuland and some top indigenes of the area before entering into a close-door meeting with the highly-revered monarch, who like the APC leader, had contributed immensely to the struggle for termination of military rule and entrenchment of democracy in Nigeria.

    From there, Asiwaju and his entourage moved to Abeokuta, precisely the Palace of Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, where he first held court with the monarch in his inner chambers, an expansive and well ventilated living room, before both of them retired to the hall downstairs where, unbeknownst to Asiwaju, an enthusiastic multitude of other Obas, chiefs and top Abeokuta indigenes had gathered. Asiwaju spent more time in each of the places he visited than he anticipated. The monarchs and their chiefs were obviously bent on maximizing the opportunity of interacting with the APC leader. For instance, he arrived at Ake’s Palace around 4pm that Saturday and by 6.30pm discussions were still ongoing, after which he later headed for the Palace of Olu of Ilaro and Paramount ruler of Yewaland, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, a distance of over two hours. He spent over three hours in Ilaro, arriving back in Lagos at midnight.The next day, Sunday February 13, was devoted to the Akarigbo and Paramount Ruler of Remoland, Oba Babatunde Ajayi.

    I have taken the time to enumerate Asiwaju’s itinerary and meetings with the traditional rulers he has met thus far in order to highlight how intensive and inclusive the consultations have been. It is also noteworthy that in Oyo and Osun states, Asiwaju had also met with Alaafin of Oyo, Iku Baba Yeye, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi; Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi Ojaja 11; Owa-Obokun of Ijesaland, Oba Adekunle Aromolaran, and Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Olanipekun Oyetunji.

    In these places, Asiwaju’s message to the paramount rulers and their chiefs was succinct: he told them he had come to inform and consult with them on his decision to contest for the presidency and to seek their prayers and blessings, which they generously gave.

    This is how he put the message for instance at the Palace of Akarigbo, who is presently the Chairman, Ogun Council of Obas and Chiefs: “I am here to let you know Kabiyesi that I want to contest to become the president of this country. And equally, to also inform Kabiyesi that I have earlier gone to the Presidential Villa to inform the president, because I know we have a president and there can only be one president at a time who must be accorded his full respect as the President and Commander-in-Chief and the leader of our party. I went to him and informed him that I would like to step into his shoes without stepping on his toes. I did that and he said ‘go ahead, we are in a democracy’”.

    Indeed, after first visiting the Presidential Villa, Abuja to inform President Buhari of his aspiration, Asiwaju had launched into ta series of consultations and meetings on the matter of 2023 presidency. In Abuja, he met with some Northern leaders led by former Liaison Officer to former President Shehu Shagari, Alhaji Tanko Yakassai. Later, he proceeded to Kano and Katsina states where he conferred with Governors Abdullahi Umar Ganduje and Aminu Bello Masari. Among those he also met with were Zamfara State Governor Bello Mutawalle, Niger State Governor Abubakar Sani-Bello and former military president, General Ibrahim Babangida. Asiwaju also met with some stakeholders abroad during his recent trip to the United Kingdom. Among those he engaged with in London are members of the APC UK chapter and Nigerians in the Diaspora.

    There are, however, a few remarkable things about these consultations, particularly the meetings with the traditional rulers. One, I must point out that Asiwaju was not just meeting these illustrious traditional rulers just because he is in the presidential race. He has always maintained a cordial and harmonious relationship with them over the years.

    Such is the nature of his relationship with the monachs that with his visit to the Olu of Ilaro, Oba Olugbenle, for instance, he unwittingly made history. The royal father had disclosed openly to those gathered to receive Asiwaju that the APC leader had written his name in gold, becoming the first presidential aspirant/candidate to have ever visited the people in their ancestral town.

    The consultation visits have been tasking and demanding but obviously fulfilling to both Asiwaju and his hosts. In the course of the tours, Asiwaju travelled extensively by air and road while also addressing his hosts at length in various areas. Everywhere he went, it was evident that Asiwaju was no unknown visitor. Beyond politics, he had established years-long relationships with the royal fathers and communal leaders and this was widely acknowledged. Another common feature of the visits virtually everywhere was that prominent indigenes and ordinary citizens converged on the palaces to welcome and cheery the aspirant demonstrating that they are one with their traditional rulers on the issue. At every point Asiwaju reiterated his physical and mental capacity to rule stressing that an administration he heads will have no excuse for failure. He equally made references to his track record in the private sector as treasurer of Mobil before his venture into politics, his active role in the pro-democracy struggle that ushered this political dispensation, the foundation his administration laid for the fiscal emancipation of Lagos between 1999 and 2007 as well as the ongoing modernization of the state, his contribution to winning back stolen electoral mandates in Edo, Ondo, Ekiti and Osun states after the flawed 2007 elections and his input towards the victory of the APC in the 2015 and 2019 presidential elections.

    Asiwaju made it clear that if all the assault on his person and character is to deter Asiwaju from the race or distract him, they are mistaken. For he has put his leg on the throttle and there is no going back on his 2023 aspiration. Indeed, in response to this mudslinging and attempts to impugn his character, he spoke about the allegory of wrestling with the pig at the residence of the new Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Lekan Balogun, in Ibadan, Oyo State two weeks ago. Paraphrasing a Greek philosopher whose book he read, he said “if you want to wrestle with the pig, you must be ready to roll in the mud and deal with the poo poo,” he stated that he was ready to get dirtied in the process. “All that it requires is that afterwards you wash up and become clean again,” he added.

    • Rahman is Media Aide to Asiwaju Tinubu