The Nation Newspaper

Category: Letters

May good times roll under President Tinubu
- By Solomon Odemwingie
Sir: It will be unpatriotic for any Nigerian, and even President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s opponents not to wish him well in office now that the Supreme Court has settled for all time the legal dispute over the February 25 poll. If the president fails, the country bears the brunt. All hands must be on deck to help him, as going by his words: “good governance is not a one-man show”.

Nigeria needs urgent attention for rapid development in all facets to enhance the standard of living of the people. Things are not as they used to be when Nigeria had the shock absorber to withstand all sorts of political waywardness and profligacy. We need to bring the government closer to the people and discourage gladiators whose ostentatious lifestyles do not mirror the poverty in the land.

To say that many are poor is an understatement because some economists define poverty line as the minimum acceptable standard of living. In a sense, poverty is not the total absence of food on the table but of choice. What many people go through today is no longer poverty but starvation and squalor. Something urgent has to be done to facilitate a reversal of this intolerable status quo.

As it stands now, we do not need a saint to rule us but one who is not a stranger to the notorious lifestyle of a cabal of political parasites. A leader, who knows our people, especially those that used their privileged positions to inflict heavy injury on the state of the nation.

For the president, the task ahead is to make life better for the people and the coast is now clear for him, following the affirmation of his election by the highest court in the land. Those who had anxiously looked forward to the immediate past president, Muhammadu Buhari, know how much we were taken backwards by a combination of human and natural factors. In his tenure, he was far removed from the people whose welfare he swore to protect.

True, bridges were constructed and launched. The rails welcomed new sophisticated trains just as agricultural cultivation witnessed large scale production of local rice and other produce. While all these happened, the people still do not have food on their tables.

So far, Tinubu has handled things differently as he moves to restore confidence in government. With Tinubu now on the saddle, all eyes are on him to ensure that things work so that Nigeria can regain its seat in the comity of nations.

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The president has started well. His inaugural address at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in Ne

w York last month, served notice that Nigeria is back. Not only back, but also backing other African countries so that the continent can have a firm voice in global affairs.

One great advantage of executive presidency is the easy location of responsibility as the chief executive is directly answerable to the people whose mandate he enjoys. Today, Nigeria is at a crossroads. Everyone claims to be innocent while pointing fingers at others. Who do we now blame?

When Tinubu said that it was his turn to rule, many tongues wagged with all forms of interpretations from the unimaginable to the ridiculous. He now has a date history, with reality dawning on us that Nigeria needs a radical change.

Corruption and deceit are no longer in tune with the reality of the moment. If the president could remove oil subsidy in his first few minutes in office, we believe that he is also ready to take on those who have caused Nigeria a great disservice. In his words, of course, this will be a herculean task because of some fundamental inhibitions and the way we are.

Having removed fuel subsidy, Nigerians are waiting on him for the palliative measures to cushion their pains. In his Independence anniversary speech, he outlined measures to give Nigerians a good time. May the good times roll.

•Solomon Odemwingie,

Benin City
November 3, 2023
Digital inclusion rights and democracy
Sir: Last month, the world celebrated Global Encryption Day to further reaffirm the need to remain safe online and offline while promoting end-to-end encryption as the gold standard of online security across the world. October is considered as the global cybersecurity awareness month. In a world where people seem to spend more time online, it has become pertinent to ensure people can communicate with another person safely without any attempt by a third party to access or temper with their messages or the risk of such messages being used to cause real-life harm.

Beyond safety in the digital space, access and opportunity to harness digital tools in the African climes remains a major concern. Issues around infrastructural and capacity deficit, digital inequality gaps, and sociocultural predisposition continue to widen the gap between the status quo and an ideal digital future in the global south.

The importance of internet penetration goes beyond how easy it makes life for users. Sometimes, quality of life and outright survival can be dependent on access to digital tools. During the pandemic, efforts intensified to improve digital communications across all facets of life. This did not only ensure that digital technologies became pivotal but also made digital literacy integral to adapting and communicating in the society.

Public institutions like the Nigerian Immigration Service, National Identity Management Commission amongst other agencies substantially deployed digital tools to enhance its processes. Public institutions like the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) led the way with online submission of lists of party agents, development of results viewing portal accessible to all everyone. This was followed by the design and implementation of the pre-registration portal for Continuous Voters Registration in 2021 which enabled potential voters to commence registration process online before finalizing biometrics physically. This to a large extent improved the process and decongested registration centers as potential registrants were assigned dates to visit INEC offices in their Local Government Areas to complete their registration. In this vein, just like voting is a right in every democracy, the ability to navigate from registration to voting proper in the midst of technological advancement in the process is as important.

Also, the proliferation of mobile applications for virtually all institutions like banks, insurance agencies, pension administrators, transportation companies amongst others only means digital literacy has gone beyond a luxury knowledge to an essential one.

Read Also: Safeguard our democracy, President Tinubu charges Police

And with this increase in digital footprint should come a corresponding increase in investment into securing the data that is processed. Digital rights, which are basically a fundamental human right, are expected to enable individuals to access, use, create, and publish digital contents using computers, mobile phones, internet and other electronic devices, and telecommunications networks. However, Africa and specifically Nigeria still face challenges in accessing what has become a necessity in order to effectively participate as active citizens.

A young person residing in urban and suburban locations in Nigeria still struggles with the purchasing power required for a sophisticated smartphone and bandwidth to use important applications. This is largely due to the skyrocketing inflation rate which has also affected the cost of internet data and restricts citizen’s access to few selected platforms. In the midst of this, it’s almost impossible to overlook inhabitants of rural areas whose important means of communication is a transistor radio and at best, a simple mobile that barely makes and receives calls.

As digital literacy continues to become a prerequisite for actively participating in democratic system of government, a lot more needs to be done to democratize the digital space, especially around access, knowledge, security and privacy.
- Olasupo Abideen, abideenolasupo@gmail.com
November 2, 2023
NDLEA and the seizure of fake dollars

By Blessing Aliyu

Sir: A few weeks ago, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) announced the arrest of some persons suspected of trafficking in counterfeit currencies from whom fake $4.9 million and CFA57 million were seized.

Incidentally, the operatives of the anti-narcotics agency were conducting a routine search on vehicles on the Abuja-Lokoja Highway when they stumbled on these fake currencies.

For well-meaning citizens, the report of the arrest and seizure was a good development because, had those counterfeits made it into circulation, we could only imagine the number of Nigerians that would lose their hard-earned money. And in this time of serious austerity, that would further compound the woes of the victims. Hence, NDLEA operatives deserve commendations.

Ironically and unfortunately, the reactions of some Nigerians to the news smack of derision and ignorance, hence this intervention to educate them. They, especially young people, were busy on social media, questioning why NDLEA operatives made the seizure since counterfeit money is not, according to them, within the jurisdiction of drug law enforcement. Some even expressed scepticism about the authenticity of the arrest, claiming that it was staged. Such irrational reactions exposed the hidden apathy and hostility harboured by some Nigerians against law enforcement.

I think society needs to school these sceptics that there is nothing wrong with an arm of law enforcement busting crimes that are not directly under its purview.

Of course, NDLEA made it clear the suspects and the exhibits were transferred to the relevant authority, in this case, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

This is not the first time that NDLEA would intercept fake money. This latest, which happened on October 15, is probably the fourth time in 22 months based on information available on the internet.

We can recall that on January 21, NDLEA recovered counterfeit $269,000 from a drug syndicate in Lagos after the arrest of three suspects. Also, on August 20, another 20 million counterfeit dollars were intercepted by NDLEA operatives along the Abaji-Lokoja expressway. Last year, on February 21, operatives of the agency intercepted another fake $4.7 million in cash. In the cases not involving illicit drugs, suspects and exhibits were transferred to the relevant law enforcement agency.

Read Also: Tinubu sets up committee to consider gaps in police legal framework

NDLEA had also in the past intercepted human traffickers with the suspects and their victims handed over to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP). The most recent example of this was in September when NDLEA operatives rescued five pregnant teenage victims of trafficking in Imo State and promptly handed them over to NAPTIP officials who are more equipped to handle such cases.

There are few instances where the agency caught bandits and gun runners with sophisticated weapons and transferred them, suspects and exhibits, to the Nigerian Army. Similarly, there have been reports of Nigeria Customs Service seizing illicit drugs which were then handed over to NDLEA or NAFDAC.

In September, for instance, Customs handed over cannabis and opioids worth N699.5 million to NDLEA. All of these speak volumes about the existing synergy among law enforcement, security, and regulatory bodies.

It should be noted that the motive of law enforcement is to stop crime first. To those not happy about this synergy: Would they have preferred that NDLEA operatives look the other way and allow those purveyors of fake dollars to go scot-free since they didn’t find any illicit drugs during the check?

We all know the havoc those fake dollars would have caused to our economy. It shouldn’t matter whether it was NDLEA, Customs, or NSCDC that busted the crime; what should matter is the fact that the crime was stopped in its tracks.

We should look past our cynicism and appreciate law enforcement that works. Lest we forget, our collective security lies in law enforcement prevailing over crime and criminals.

•Blessing Aliyu,

Gombi, Adamawa State

November 1, 2023
When leaders act like drunken sailors in sinking ship
- By John Amabolou Elekun
Sir: In the vast sea of Nigeria’s political landscape, citizens find themselves on a sinking ship, grappling with the hardships and hunger that have become an unfortunate norm.

As the nation battles economic challenges and societal woes, the actions of its leaders are under increasing scrutiny. A poignant example of this disconnect is the recent and controversial purchase of SUV vehicles by members of the National Assembly.

In the eyes of many, these leaders are like drunken sailors indulging in luxuries while the ship they steer faces turbulent waters. The metaphor underscores the sense of neglect and irresponsibility that some citizens feel from those entrusted with steering the ship of the nation toward prosperity and stability.

The economic hardships faced by Nigerians have reached alarming levels, with a significant portion of the population contending with hunger and deprivation. In such dire circumstances, the extravagant purchase of SUVs by elected officials raises questions about their commitment to the welfare of the people they represent.

It is crucial to acknowledge that public servants have a responsibility not only to legislate but also to lead by example. The conspicuous consumption of resources, especially during times of national distress, sends a disheartening message to the very people who placed their trust in these leaders.

Read Also: Tinubu sets up committee to consider gaps in police legal framework

Critics argue that such ostentatious spending is not only insensitive but also reflects a lack of understanding of the challenges faced by ordinary citizens. The juxtaposition of luxury purchases against a backdrop of economic struggles paints a stark picture of a leadership that seems disconnected from the reality on the ground.

There is an urgent need for accountability and a re-evaluation of priorities within the political sphere. The ship may be sinking, but it is not too late for leaders to reassess their course and prioritize the needs of the people over personal indulgences.

Most certainly conclusion, this “drunken sailors in a sinking ship” metaphor captures the sentiment of many Nigerians grappling with the harsh realities of their daily lives. The recent purchase of SUVs by House of Representatives members serves as a symbol of a leadership adrift from the concerns of the people.

As the nation faces turbulent waters, the call for accountability and responsible governance becomes more critical than ever.

•John Amabolou Elekun,

Iju-Ajuwon, Lagos
November 1, 2023
Nigeria’s missed gas windfall: Implications and remedies
Sir: The Nigerian economy depends largely on hydrocarbons. Yet, in the wake of the Russian-Ukrainian war and the subsequent energy crisis that gripped European countries due to a reduction in gas supply from Russia, Nigeria found itself ill-prepared to seize the opportunity presented by the surge in demand for natural gas. Despite possessing more than 200 trillion cubic feet of natural gas reserves, Nigeria failed to capitalize on the unprecedented rise in global gas demand. This lack of foresight and inadequate investments has significant implications for the nation’s energy sector and its economic development.

The obvious first point is that inadequate investments in gas infrastructure, exploration, and production left Nigeria unable to meet the increased global demand promptly. The sad truth is that the lack of proper facilities and technologies hindered the country’s capacity to extract and export its abundant gas resources efficiently.

In addition, the country failed to anticipate the potential increase in global gas demand due to geopolitical events like the Russian-Ukraine conflict. As a result, it missed out on the windfall that could have bolstered its economy and energy sector, particularly in these dire times.

Furthermore, while focusing on export potential, Nigeria neglected its domestic gas market. The nation could have benefited from a more extensive network of gas distribution for local consumption, which would have boosted its industries and power generation capacity.

Excuses and reasons for missing out are irrelevant at this stage. There are implications, real life and far-reaching economic implications for missing out.

Number one, the failure to capitalize on the high gas demand windfall has resulted in a significant economic loss for Nigeria. The nation could have earned substantial revenues from gas exports, which would have bolstered its struggling economy in this critical time.

Also, Nigeria’s inability to meet its domestic gas demand contributes to energy insecurity within the country. Inadequate infrastructure, pipeline vandalism, and unfair regulatory practices have hindered the supply of gas for power generation and industrial use.

Moreover, over-reliance on oil revenues has long been a concern for Nigeria. The missed opportunity to harness its gas reserves diversifies its income sources and reduces dependence on oil means the concerns persist.

Read Also: Drug war: NDLEA ‘ll deploy personnel in 774 LGAs in 2024 – Marwa

If this episode teaches any lesson at all, it must be this: promoting domestic use of gas is crucial for national growth and economic development. Promoting the domestic use of gas is a multi-faceted strategy that benefits a country’s energy security, economic growth, environmental sustainability, and the well-being of its citizens. It offers a cleaner, more affordable, and versatile energy source that can contribute to a more sustainable and prosperous future.

Now, to effectively address the implications of missing out on the high gas demand windfall, Nigeria must take decisive actions.

Firstly, it must become intentional in investing in gas infrastructure. All hands should be on deck here. The Nigerian government and private sector players should invest significantly in gas infrastructure, including pipelines, processing plants, and export facilities. These investments will improve the nation’s capacity to extract and export gas efficiently.

Secondly, there has to be a conscious effort to promote the domestic use of gas. Yes, a laser-like focus on boosting the domestic gas market is crucial. This includes investing in infrastructure to deliver gas for power generation, industries, and households. Regulatory reforms and anti-sabotage measures are essential here to ensure a steady domestic supply.

Then, Nigeria must diversify the energy sector. It is time to say, enough of lip service. Nigeria should diversify its energy sector by giving equal importance to gas alongside oil. This diversification can provide a more stable income source and energy security.

And most importantly, we require enhanced foresight. The Nigerian policymakers must enhance their foresight and geopolitical awareness to seize opportunities when they arise. The ability to adapt to global energy trends is critical for economic growth. Understanding the interconnectedness of the global economy is crucial to thriving today and the future.

This is the conclusion of the matter: Nigeria’s failure to leverage its vast gas reserves during the peak of global demand due to the Russian-Ukraine conflict carries significant implications for the nation’s economy and energy sector. By implementing the recommended remedies and learning from past oversights, Nigeria can position itself to take full advantage of future opportunities in the global energy market. The key lies in proactive investments, regulatory improvements, and a strategic focus on both domestic and international gas markets.

We can and should do better.
- Elvis Eromosele, elviseroms@gmail.com
October 31, 2023
Nigeria’s parliament of greed
Sir: The controversial decision by the lower house to gift its members exotic cars running into millions of Naira, and which have no bearing on their legislative duties, point to an institution convulsed by greed. Worse still, it paints the grotesque spectre of institutional greed in Nigeria.

In a country of staggering oil riches, vast, arable lands and immense human and material resources, N57.6 billion is chicken feed. However, when it is to be spent on 360 sports utility vehicles for 360 legislators, the implications become clear and dire in a country where about a hundred million people scrape below the poverty line daily.

Each vehicle is projected to cost over N150 million and, according to the leadership of the house, is to enable the legislators carry out their constitutional duties.

For years, Nigeria’s National Assembly which consists of the Senate and the House of Representatives has weathered accusations of extravagance. Branded as overpaid and underworked by many Nigerians, the legislators have always had to defend themselves from accusations that they allocate too much money to themselves.

Successive sessions of the National Assembly have been accused of being appendages to the executive in a clear conspiracy to milk Nigerians dry.

This accusation often repeated to a sickening degree largely focuses on what the legislators earn versus what they lend their legislation to. Some Nigerians have cynically commented that all the lawmakers ever use their considerable legislative powers to do is legislate obscene salaries for themselves.

But what is at stake? Who are the legislators really serving?

The legislators themselves have typically argued that all they get as perks from their high offices are necessary to maintain the dignity of their office.

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For example, in response to the brouhaha raised over the outrageously expensive vehicles, they have justified the same saying they need them to ply bad Nigerian roads.

What makes that claim utterly ridiculous and even laughable is the fact that Nigerian roads are so bad because the legislators have failed to do their bit to arrest the dilapidation of Nigerian roads.

In a country where millions of children are out of school, and millions of people live on less than a dollar a day, to spend so much on cars and even more on other perks for do-nothing legislators is beyond shocking; it is scandalous.

The National Assembly in Nigeria has had some luminous moments in the past, none more so than when the ill-advised and odious third term bid by former President Olusegun Obasanjo breathed its last in the hands of the legislators. But those moments have been few and far between.

There have been fisticuffs, sell-outs, shocking statements and a lot to leave Nigerians with the unmistakable feeling that they always manage to elect the self-serving as their legislators. Or do they?

It has become something of a scandal that Nigerian legislators have become synonymous with ostentation and misrepresentation.

Many of them cannot even account for the millions they receive every year in funds for constituency projects.

It is then little wonder that democracy has struggled badly in the country.

With misfiring legislators who put their purses and paunches before their primary constituents and constituencies, democracy will continue to search in vain for true heroes.
- Ike Willie-Nwobu, Ikewilly9@gmail.com
October 31, 2023
Navigating the vacuum of leadership
Sir: Nigeria, a nation rich in diversity and potential, appears to be at a critical juncture because of a pervasive lack of effective leadership across various spheres. From political corridors to religious and spiritual realms, the vacuum of leadership has left the nation grappling with multifaceted challenges.

In the political landscape, Nigeria has faced a recurring crisis of leadership marked by corruption, instability, and a lack of visionary governance.

The failures to address systemic issues, rampant corruption, and an inability to chart a unified course have hindered the nation’s progress. Forging ahead demands a commitment to transparency, accountability, and an inclusive approach that considers the needs of all citizens.

The influence of religious and spiritual leaders is significant. Yet, there are concerns about the direction and impact of this leadership. The lack of a unified moral compass has led to divisions rather than fostering unity.

A recalibration of spiritual leadership towards values of tolerance, empathy, and a genuine commitment to societal well-being is imperative.

Economic challenges persist, exacerbated by a lack of effective economic leadership. Issues such as unemployment, inflation, and a widening wealth gap demand a strategic and comprehensive approach.

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The way forward involves embracing economic policies that prioritize job creation, equitable distribution of resources, and sustainable development.

Beyond politics and economics, Nigeria faces social challenges stemming from inadequate social leadership. Issues such as education, healthcare, and social inequality persist. The nation must prioritize investments in education, healthcare infrastructure, and social welfare programs to uplift the masses and create a more just society.

To navigate these challenges, Nigeria must prioritize the development of a new breed of leaders. This entails investing in leadership education, promoting meritocracy, and fostering a culture of accountability. Leaders must be selected based on competence, integrity, and a commitment to serving the people.

Moreover, there is a need for a collective effort to bridge ethnic, religious, and regional divides. National unity and cohesion are essential for progress. Engaging in open dialogues, fostering inclusivity, and celebrating diversity can contribute to the creation of a more harmonious and resilient Nigeria.

The country stands at a pivotal moment where the deficiencies in leadership must be acknowledged and rectified. The nation has the potential for greatness, but unlocking this potential requires a concerted effort to instil effective leadership in all spheres. By embracing good governance, transparency, and a commitment to the well-being of its citizens, Nigeria can forge ahead towards a future of prosperity and unity.
- John Amabolou Elekun, Iju-Ajuwon, Lagos
October 31, 2023
Taking the drug war to the grassroots
- By Adekunbi Lawal
Sir: A few weeks ago, when it was in the news that the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) graduated a new set of narcotics agents from training and another 2500 cadets due to pass out in a month’s time, the significance of that development was not immediately clear to Nigerians.

Not until last week, when the chairman and chief executive officer of the agency, Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd), unveiled the plan to deploy anti-narcotic agents to the 774 local government areas of the country.

This is good news for the citizens of this country. We all can attest to the extraordinary performance of the agency in the past 33 months as it worked to curb the menace of illicit drug use and trafficking in our society.

The performance of NDLEA since Marwa took over its helm has been superlative, a fact no right-minded citizen would oppose.

The number of arrests made weekly and the quantity of seizures recorded so far, not to mention the number of convictions in court, has shown Nigerians the severity of the illicit drug problem in the country.

By the same token, the NDLEA performance has restored the confidence of Nigerians in its capability to rid our country of this menace.

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While we can say with all sense of modesty that the country is in safe hands with Marwa and his NDLEA operatives, we shouldn’t overlook that some conditions must be met if the agency were to achieve its long-term objectives of making our society safe.

For instance, until October 17, the NDLEA workforce was about 9400, whereas the country’s population was over 200 million. We don’t have to stretch our imaginations to know that although the agency is working very hard, it lacks the numerical strength for effective policing against illicit drug trafficking.

That is why its latest recruitment of 5000 officers is a positive development. One can safely assume that the efficiency of NDLEA will increase once its workforce is beefed up with these new personnel.

Hearing Marwa confirm that NDLEA will post anti-narcotic agents in the 774 local government areas in 2024 is heart-warming. For Nigerians who are happy at the resurgence of the agency, this latest confirmation from Marwa reinforces the belief that the agency’s present rich vein of form is not a flash in the pan but a carefully planned reform that is sustainable well into the future and to the benefit of Nigerians.

•Adekunbi Lawal,

Jabi, Abuja
October 30, 2023
Reviving the nation’s ailing economy
- By Oladele Oladipupo
Sir: Our nation is currently grappling with a high cost of living, double-digit inflation, removal of fuel subsidy, and the devaluation of our currency, all of which have had a negative impact on every sector of the economy.

A few weeks ago, I asked myself a crucial question: Why are we in this precarious situation? To be candid, both our leaders and the citizens are to blame for this mess. Many of us do not take government policies seriously, especially those concerning the economy. Until we see Nigeria’s economy as our own, nothing will work.

Recently, it was reported in one of the national dailies that some security officials assigned to guard our pipelines were the same ones who colluded with hoodlums to steal our crude oil. What a pity? This shows that some of us lack patriotism, commitment, honesty, and dedication. One thing we must realize is that if we are serious about reviving our economy, then every one of us must be ready to make sacrifices.

Why is our economy in a comatose state? To answer this question, let’s take a trip down memory lane. Between 1950 and 1963, the country was divided into four regions: the Western Region, the Mid-Western Region (carved out from the old Western Region), the Eastern Region, and the Northern Region. Each region was governed by a premier elected by the electorate. All regions developed at their own pace, fostering healthy competition. During that period, agriculture was the backbone of our economy. There were groundnut pyramids in the Northern Region and mountains of cocoa beans in the Southwest Region waiting to be exported to Europe. However, in 1958, crude oil was discovered at Oloibiri in Bayelsa State. The federal government’s attention shifted from agriculture to crude oil. As a result, agriculture was relegated to the background, marking the beginning of our crisis. This shift led to the importation of foodstuffs and other essentials, which subsequently depleted our foreign reserves.

Another significant challenge is the government’s failure to diversify the economy. For over five decades, the country operated as a mono-economy, neglecting the economic potential in agriculture, mining, and tourism.

Another major factor impeding our economic growth is the issue of erratic power supply. Over the years, we have been grappling with electricity problems, with no solution in sight. In South Africa, for instance, the country generates 60,000 megawatts of electricity, while Nigeria is still struggling to produce 5,000 megawatts. The federal government should declare a state of emergency in the energy sector. Lastly, insecurity is another challenge. In places where there is no security, businesses cannot thrive. Most investors are reluctant to put their resources or invest in an environment that is not conducive for business. The three tiers of government are doing their best, and we need to cooperate with them.

Read Also: Fed Govt set to convert over one million vehicles to CNG by 2027

To revive our ailing economy, here are my recommendations for the federal government:

The government should establish a committee of economic experts (a think-tank) to develop a robust economic blueprint for the nation, ensure that all our refineries are made to function properly, initiate policies that will encourage local production of goods and services and strengthen the anti-graft agencies to enable them to discharge their duties effectively.

It should also provide regular power supply. It is advisable to explore alternative sources of energy such as solar, geothermal, and wind.

The security agencies need to be strengthened to enable them to perform their functions effectively.

It should develop and implement policies that will promote Nigeria’s non-oil exports, create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive, thus diversifying the economy by exploring economic potential in the agriculture, mining, and tourism sectors.

State governments should be encouraged to embrace mechanized farming.

We must all work together to ensure our economy bounces back. Each of us has a role to play in this regard by contributing through regular payment of taxes and levies.

•Oladele Oladipupo

oladeleoladipupo@gmail.com
October 30, 2023
Succour at last for Ogun’s flood-ravaged Isheri community?
- By Elijah Udofia
Sir: These are certainly not the best of times for residents of Isheri and its environs in Ifo Local Government Area of Ogun State – no thanks to the perennial flooding they usually experience during rainy seasons.

Just like the previous years, the unwanted visitor came calling again this year bringing along with it what the Afro Beat legend, Fela Anikulapo Kuti, called “sorrow, tears and blood”.

A drive on the long bridge of Lagos-Ibadan Expressway in the Isheri axis of Ogun State, one could see the once beautiful landscape turned into river of waters and the destruction that accompanied it. The flood not only submerged shops, residential building, but also industrial buildings.

To the residents of the community, who are said to be of middle and high income earners, this year’s flooding is the worst as it destroyed properties worth millions of naira and painfully too, led to lose of precious life.

They lamented that the recent release of water from the Oyan Dam is the main cause of the flooding and this has done unimaginable havoc not only to their properties, but their livelihoods.

The implication is that the residents of the areas have fled their homes while business, schools and religious centres have all shut down in the affected communities.

As things are now, there is an urgent humanitarian crisis occasioned by the flood as those sacked by the flood are hanging around with family members and friends, while those who have no place to go are accommodated by religious bodies in their various camps.

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It is on record and as supported by the residents, that government officials, both from the state and national levels in the past, hardly visited the area whenever flood occurred and when they do, only give the victims promises which are never fulfilled.

However, this year’s seems to be different. It is heart-warming to see that shortly after the flood disaster and the threatening humanitarian crisis, the governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, the Ministers of State for the Environment, Isiaq Salako and his Water Resources and Sanitation counterpart, Prof. Joseph Tsev, visited the affected areas and agreed that something urgent needed to be done.

While Salako stressed the need for a comprehensive study of the area to find a lasting solution, he also believed that by expanding the drainages and lifting the roads, it would help in tackling the problem. Prof Utsev on his part, want residents of Isheri and other flood prone areas in the country to know that the federal government is not unmindful of their plight as it has set up a committee that is working extensively on flood challenges across the country.

For Governor Abiodun whose portion of territory continue to experience flooding year in year out, the presence of the federal government through the two ministers, was an indication that solution has finally come to Isheri community. He was however quick to warn that drastic action has to be taken to confront the challenge of flooding in the area once and for all.

Taking a cursory look at the area, no one will be left in doubt that haphazard erection of structures even on water plain contributed to the disaster that has become a yearly occurrence in the community. One is happy that the governor was emphatic when he put the residents on notice that some or all of those structures obstructing free flow of water have to give way if they want permanent solution to the perennial flooding.

From the discussions Governor Abiodun had with the residents and community leaders coupled with the fact that the federal government, this time around, has shown greater interest in seeing to the end of the menace, one can say with certainty that succour has finally come to Isheri and its environs.

•Elijah Udofia,

Laderin, Abeokuta, Ogun State
October 30, 2023