The Nation Newspaper

Category: Letters

  • Niger Republic’s reckless allegation

    Niger Republic’s reckless allegation

    • By Ike Willie-Nwobu

    Sir: The illegal military junta in Niger Republic recently came up with outrageous allegation that Nigeria and a handful of other West African countries are marching in lockstep with France to sponsor terrorism in the country to destabilize it.

    In 2023, Niger Republic joined West Africa’s ring of coup republics which already included Mali, Burkina Faso and Guinea. The coup plotters took over the government and imprisoned Mohammed Bazoum, the democratically elected president of the country.

     The coup in Niger which is Nigeria’s closest geographical neighbour was a devastating blow to the incipient presidency of Bola Ahmed Tinubu who had just become Nigeria’s president and chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). A democrat in his heart of hearts, the president was never going to be silent or passive about the illegal change of government.

    Read Also: No disagreement with Govs over local government administration — Tinubu

    This allegation smacks of shameless ingratitude to say the least. It provides more evidence of how reckless military regimes are. It is understandable that Niger Republic resents its former colonial masters for the indescribable depredations that colonialism visited on the country. But why drag Nigeria which has been its greatest benefactor into its historical resentments just because the military wants to clap back at the country for its forceful denunciation of the military coup?

    While Nigeria cannot actually ignore what is happening in Niger Republic as a destabilization of the country would put Nigeria and the entire West African sub-region in a lot of difficulty, it must now reassess its relationship with the landlocked and apparently ungrateful country. It is a matter of national pride for Nigeria to refuse to make sacrifices for the country or any other country that will mock her sensibilities especially through the leprous lever of an illegitimate government.

    In Africa and especially in the West African sub-region, Africa’s most populous democracy and economy has continued to play key roles as a stabilizing force. Were it not for Nigeria’s vital contributions to the economy and security of the sub region, there is no doubt that the sub region would be in far greater peril.

     The outrageous allegations by the military junta in Niger which by all indications has failed, though not unexpectedly, to improve the lives of Nigeriens, again point to the grave folly of military intervention in government.

     Military coups have never saved any country but have often succeeded to water the ground for long-term destabilization.

    More than ever, it has become imperative that democracy be restored in Guinea, Burkina Faso, and especially in Niger Republic.

    •Ike Willie-Nwobu,

    Ikewilly9@gmail.com

  • On the expulsion of French troops in West Africa

    On the expulsion of French troops in West Africa

    • By Folawiyo Kareem Olajoku

    Sir: The recent expulsions of French troops from West African countries of Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, and Ivory Coast, mark a significant shift in the regional dynamics. This development presents an opportunity for West Africa to redefine its relationship with France and other external partners, prioritizing regional security, economic development, and political stability.

    The presence of French troops in West Africa has been a subject of debate for many years. On one hand, French troops have been instrumental in combating terrorist groups like Al-Qaeda, ISIS, and Boko Haram in the Sahel region. Their military expertise and resources have helped to weaken these organizations and prevent the spread of extremism. Additionally, French forces have contributed to maintaining stability in regions plagued by conflict, such as Mali and the Central African Republic. Their presence has helped to prevent the escalation of violence and protect civilian populations.

    Furthermore, French military cooperation with West African countries has enabled the transfer of skills, knowledge, and technology to local security forces. This capacity building has enhanced the ability of West African countries to address their own security challenges. French businesses also have significant economic interests in West Africa, particularly in the energy and natural resources sectors. The presence of French troops helps to secure these interests and protect French investments.

    However, the presence of the troops has also been perceived as a form of neo-colonialism, where France seeks to maintain its influence and control over the region. This perception fuels resentment and mistrust towards French involvement. Many West Africans view the French military presence as an affront to national sovereignty, particularly when French forces operate with relative impunity and without sufficient coordination with local authorities.

    Read Also: I’m focused on building a model nation for future generations — Tinubu

    The reliance on French military assistance has also created a culture of dependence, undermining the ability of the West African countries to develop their own security capabilities and address their unique challenges. Moreover, French military operations in West Africa have been criticized for human rights abuses, including civilian casualties, displacement, and mistreatment of detainees.

    The expulsion of French troops from Ivory Coast, in particular, highlights the growing desire for regional sovereignty. In their statement, the Ivorian government cited the need to “reorganize” its defence and security architecture, emphasizing the importance of national sovereignty and independence. This move is seen as a significant blow to France’s influence in the region, as Ivory Coast has historically been one of France’s closest allies in West Africa.

    As France re-evaluates its military presence in West Africa, it is essential to acknowledge the complexities of this relationship. While French troops have contributed to regional stability, their presence has also been perceived as undermining West African sovereignty and creating dependence on foreign military aid.

    Ultimately, a new era of regional sovereignty in West Africa must be built on mutual respect, trust, and a commitment to African-led solutions. France must adapt to the changing landscape of West African politics and security, prioritizing cooperation, capacity building, and the empowerment of regional security forces. By doing so, France can help foster a more stable, prosperous, and sovereign West Africa, one that is capable of addressing its own challenges and realizing its full potential.

    •Folawiyo Kareem Olajoku, PhD

    Abuja.

  • Cost of funerals and obnoxious mourning traditions

    Cost of funerals and obnoxious mourning traditions

    • By Leo Igwe

    Sir: A recent Facebook post by a Danish woman, Anja Ringgren Loven, was a brutal reminder of the debauched mourning traditions in some parts of Nigeria. In the post, Anja noted how she and her team saw a “lot of children living alone in a house with the corpse of their mother”. According to her, it is common for many families in Akwa Ibom to keep the corpses of their relatives in a room because “they don´t have money to pay for a funeral”. This is deeply embarrassing.

    She further pointed out the troubling trend of abandonment of loved ones whose bodies remain in morgues, “driven by rising costs and societal expectations surrounding extravagant funerals”. Yes, extravagant funerals. I mean, why should funerals be wasteful? Why should bereaved families go through or be made to suffer this additional pain and loss?

    Anja’s observation is apt and applies not only to communities in Akwa Ibom but also to other places in South-south and South-eastern Nigeria. When someone dies, people are twice as bereaved. They grieve not only because of the person who passed but also because of the cost of the funeral. This is shameful and needs to be addressed.

    I am from Imo state and moved to the Southwest in 1994. For over two decades, I had limited contact with relatives and seldom participated in their traditional rites and ceremonies. I heard people complain about the costs of funerals but I thought it was all self-inflicted and something that one could easily avoid or do away with. But it was in 2021 when my father passed away that I realized how profligate these funeral traditions are and could be. I came face to face with the lunacy and viciousness of self-styled custodians of ‘traditions’. It has been difficult to get over the pain and disappointment over the decadent funeral culture in my community.

    Soon after the death was announced, relatives from different sides of the family started sending me lists of things to do and buy including goats, chicken, cartons of beer, tubers of yam, coolers of rice, fufu, and assorted soup, etc. I noticed that funeral traditions were only devices to extort money from the bereaved. Funeral traditions were not really about mourning and grieving. The funeral was about eating, drinking, and merry-making at the expense of people who are grieving. I found this way of ‘mourning the dead’ disgusting and outrageous.

    Read Also: No disagreement with Govs over local government administration — Tinubu

    Fast forward to the funeral day, my father’s maternal relatives arrived and demanded a cow because they saw some cows in the compound. There was no cow in the list that they gave us. I told them that a cow would not be given to them because there was no cow on the list that they gave and they angrily left. Two days after the funeral, they messaged that my family should go ahead and fulfil the tradition as contained in the original list. And we reluctantly did.

    Indeed social expectation and pressure drive mourners into debt and bankruptcy. Many people borrow money or sell family property such as land to bury a family member. There have been instances where people in the community lend money or buy some property of bereaved families at giveaway prices. Now the bereaved families spend the money fulfilling funeral traditions in the same community. I mean, people are so callous and insensitive.

    We need to change this wretched funeral culture and tradition. It is disgraceful and destructive. This funeral orientation hurts and harms people. We need to end a practice that continues to impoverish those who mourn. Funerals should be conducted in ways that allow people to grieve and come to terms with the loss of their loved ones. They should not be opportunities to rub shoulders, oppress, extort or exploit others. Funerals should not be avenue to display wealth and affluence. Funerals should be what funerals supposed to be: ceremonies to honour and bury the dead. So a funeral should be a private affair and should take place at little or no cost to the relatives of the dead. There should be no need for families to sleep with corpses of relatives at home or abandon them in morgues for weeks, months, and years due to the costs of funerals and social expectations.

    This cultural show of shame must stop. Let us end this costly and extravagant funeral tradition now!

    •Leo Igwe,

    Ibadan.

  • Baying at the mighty

    Baying at the mighty

    Nigerians must be worried at the disturbing trend of partisanship and mob justice that have crept into our discourse on issues. Nigerians are quick to take sides, often based on sentiment rather than substance, particularly when the mighty and powerful are involved.

    Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala in her book, “Fighting Corruption Is Dangerous” at Page 69-70 recounted thus: “By January 2016, the allegations of (her) involvement had been picked up by a politically connected lawyer, Mr Femi Falana, who without any facts, included my name in a list of names of “indicted” people he sent to the International Criminal Court in the Hague demanding their prosecution for crime against humanity “.

    Summary: the learned senior advocate came to a conclusion that injured the reputation of Ngozi Iweala but which many Nigerians had applauded in the typical tradition of vilifying the mighty.

    Recently, the table would turn against the learned senior advocate: Martins Ortse (popularly known as VDM) alleged that Femi Falana took money from Bobrisky to help him get a presidential pardon. Without a fair assessment of his human rights and public records, some Nigerians actually took him to the cleaners, chanting VDM as their new found hero.

    I watched with dismay how some Nigerians on social media judged the situation and made very unfair comments aimed at tarnishing the image and the person of Falana who to my knowledge has contributed so much to the protection of the welfare of Nigerians through his legal practice.

    For this category of Nigerians, it is always a case of championing the cause of the perceived underdog while vilifying the mighty.

    Read Also: New Year: Keep faith with your country, NOA boss advises Nigerians

    Today, the social media is abuzz with the name of Chief Afe Babalola, accompanied by a chorus of scorn and bitter condemnation. It’s alarming to see how hastily Nigerians have passed judgment on this esteemed elder-statesman without the benefit of hearing from him.

    In our haste to condemn, we often overlook the importance of due process and the presumption of innocence until proven guilty.  How many Nigerians have cared to read the facts of the case and the circumstances in which those allegations were made? Does it mean that whoever has the guts to defame the mighty and lower his esteem is a fearless speaker of truth?

    It seems that in our eagerness to applaud those who dare to speak truth to power, we often forget to scrutinize the veracity of their claims. Not everyone who defames the mighty is a fearless truth sayer. Some may be driven by malice, personal agendas, or a desire for attention.

    •David Bassey Antia,Topfaith University, Mkpatak,Akwa Ibom State.

  • Toyin Falola at 72: Scholar without limits

    Toyin Falola at 72: Scholar without limits

    Sir: As Toyin Falola turns 72 today, January 1, we celebrate this towering figure and prolific academic in African scholarship. It is not merely his academic contributions that define him; it is his boundless energy and selfless support of others that set him apart. He has transcended individuality to become an institution. It is not enough to study his works and thoughts on various subjects he has written on. It is important to also study his lifestyle. How does he manage to be so productive?

    How does he manage to defy the constraints of time, producing an astonishing volume of work while maintaining an active presence on the global lecture circuit? What secrets lie behind his incredible productivity, as he responds to every email and engages with various requests from numerous people?

    In 2019, Lead City University, Ibadan, hosted a public conference where scholars engaged in a thought-provoking discussion about Toyin Falola’s latest publication, “In Praise of Greatness: The Poetics of African Adulation.” During the event, a professor posed a poignant question: Should the title of “professor” be reserved exclusively for individuals of Toyin Falola’s calibre, or can it be shared with others who bear the same academic distinction? With Toyin Falola’s productivity, the professor wondered if the title should still be used for all.

    If you ask me, there exists a threshold of greatness beyond which titles become superfluous. I have heard so very many people mention the name Toyin Falola without accompanying the honorific of a “professor.” To me, he has outgrown the need for titular validation. The title of professor, once a badge of distinction, now seems insufficient to capture the full magnitude of his stature, influence, and achievements, which all speak louder than the title.

    During my latest check, in 2024, Toyin Falola produced works including Understanding Colonial Nigeria: British Rule and Its Impact, Transformations in History: African Societies and Economies in the Works of Paul Lovejoy, Decolonising African History, Writing the History of the African Diaspora, Global Yorùbá: Regional and Diasporic Networks, Daily Life in Colonial Africa, Milestones in African Literature, and Chinua Achebe: Narrating Africa in Fictions and History. This impressive list is definitely not exhaustive.

    Read Also: Nigeria respects Niger’s sovereignty, territorial integrity – Tuggar

    He is never tired as he travels all over the world—today in Lagos, tomorrow in Accra, and then you hear from him in Greece. Toyin Falola is a transformative presence, much like a catalyst that sparks profound change. Whether you encounter him through a chance meeting or a deliberate pursuit, his impact is undeniable. He leaves an indelible mark on those he meets, inspiring growth, challenging perspectives, and igniting new passions. Whether he meets you or you meet him, you cannot remain the same again. Like a stone that creates ripples in a pond, Toyin Falola’s influence radiates outward.

    He has impacted the lives and professional paths of countless individuals throughout Africa. His selfless support has transformed the lives of many across Africa and inspired thousands more. He is a voice to be reckoned with in humanities and social sciences with hundreds of books to his credit. In an era where age-related divisions seem insurmountable, Toyin Falola bridges the gap with ease. At 72, he defies generational boundaries to connect his own era with that of the vibrant world of Gen Z. Baba’s connection with the younger generation is nothing short of remarkable. His ability to transcend age-related differences reflects his genuine interest in the lives and perspectives of those born decades after him.

    This is to wish Baba a happy birthday. We are grateful for your contributions to Africa and the world at large. Happy birthday to the Number One Humanities scholar in Africa, an eminent professor of history, a distinguished university teaching professor, and the Jacob and Sanger Mossiker Chair in the Humanities at the University of Texas at Austin.

    •Matthew Alugbin, PhD,Ibadan, Oyo State.

  • Kwara: Out of the shadows of stagnation

    Kwara: Out of the shadows of stagnation

    Sir: For decades, Kwara State was synonymous with the Saraki political dynasty—a hegemonic force that shaped the state’s political and economic landscape through a system often referred to as Ile-loke politics. This term, rooted in the political structures of Kwara’s past, reflects the centralization of decision-making and resources within a privileged elite, to the detriment of grassroots development.

    While the Saraki era remains a significant chapter in the state’s history, it also left a legacy of stagnation, stifling progress and innovation.

    At its core, Ile-loke politics perpetuated a patronage system that prioritized loyalty to the dynasty over merit and competence.

    During this era, Kwara became synonymous with politics over progress. For instance, critical sectors like education, healthcare, and infrastructure suffered neglect. Schools remained dilapidated, hospitals were underfunded, and basic infrastructure failed to meet the needs of a growing population.  The consequences of this political arrangement were stark. Kwara lagged behind other states in the North-Central region in terms of industrialization and human capital development.

    Neighbouring states such as Niger and Kogi began to outpace Kwara in attracting investments and fostering inclusive growth.

    Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s emergence in 2019 marked a decisive break from the Saraki-dominated past. His administration has symbolized a shift from Ile-loke politics to a governance model centred on transparency, accountability, and grassroots engagement. By prioritizing the needs of the people over political patronage, the AbdulRazaq-led government has embarked on transformative projects that are directly impacting lives.

    The ongoing urban renewal in Ilorin, the rehabilitation of over 600 schools, and investments in rural road construction are emblematic of this new direction. Moreover, the governor’s administration has dismantled structures that enabled the concentration of power in the hands of a few.

    By decentralizing governance and actively engaging with communities across the state, the government is fostering a sense of ownership and participation among ordinary Kwarans. This approach is in sharp contrast to the Ile-Loke era, where decisions were made in the interest of a select elite.

    Read Also: Ahead of midterm, emerging signs favourable for the Tinubu administration

    The strides made over the past years underscore the importance of entrusting Kwara’s future to leaders who prioritize progress, transparency, and the welfare of the people. One of the most visible aspects of Governor AbdulRazaq’s leadership is his commitment to urban renewal and infrastructure development.  In Ilorin, the state capital, his administration has embarked on ambitious urban renewal projects that have modernized the metropolis, improving its aesthetics and functionality.

    While some have raised concerns about the displacement of small businesses in the process, the overall reception has been positive, with residents lauding the enhanced infrastructure and strategic urban planning. Education, a sector that had been neglected for years, has also undergone a remarkable transformation. The renovation of over 600 schools stands as a testament to the administration’s focus on human capital development.

    These efforts have not only provided conducive learning environments but have also restored hope among students and educators alike. This investment in education is setting the foundation for a more informed and skilled generation that will drive the state’s future prosperity.

    In agriculture, the administration’s 10-year Agriculture Transformation Plan has provided a lifeline for farmers and agrarian communities.

    This initiative aims to promote food security and resolve long-standing conflicts between farmers and herders, ensuring sustainable development in rural areas. Additionally, the government’s decision to flag off the construction of 209.77km of rural roads is a strategic move to improve connectivity and stimulate economic activity across the state.

    Yet, the journey from stagnation to progress is far from over. To secure a brighter future for Kwara, its people must rally behind leaders who have proven their capacity to deliver results. Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has shown what is possible when leadership is driven by vision and a genuine commitment to the people. The stakes are high, and the choice is clear: the future of Kwara must remain in capable hands to sustain the gains of today and unlock the potential of tomorrow.

    •Babajide Fadoju,Ilorin, Kwara State.

  • A hive of insecurity in Anambra State

    A hive of insecurity in Anambra State

    • By Kene Obiezu

    Sir: The light is dimming and dimming fast in Nigeria’s ‘Light of the Nation’ state as one security breach after the other has left residents fearing for their lives, and visitors keeping off the state as much as they can.

    A couple of days ago, Tobias Okonkwo, a Catholic Priest of the Catholic Diocese of Nnewi and manager of the respective Schools of Nursing, Midwifery, and Medical Laboratory at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Ihiala, was shot dead at the Onitsha-Owerri Expressway in the state.

    A few days before, a legislator in the state, Justice Azuka who represents Onitsha North Constituency in the State House of Assembly was abducted while visiting Onitsha.

    Some weeks ago, Osita Chinedu, a lecturer with the Nnamdi Azikiwe University was shot dead right in the heart of Awka, the state capital, in an apparent car-snatching operation.

    Read Also: Governor Ododo presents N3 billion to 80 communities in Kogi

    This year alone, lawyers, businessmen, medical doctors and others have been abducted in the state. The killings did not start today, far from it. But in recent times, and especially as the 2025 governorship election in the state ticks fatefully close, insecurity appears to have acquired a new, devastating edge in a state whose people have fought heroically to acquire a measure of stability over the years.

    The question that must be asked at this point is:

    What is the government doing as people it is sworn to protect have been turned into prey for vicious criminals? Sadly, the answer appears to be nothing, and it is immeasurably disappointing that things have turned out this way.

    Insecurity is the clearest indicator that a government has failed. It is what is finally exposing the bare behind of the current Anambra State government.

    When people can no longer sleep with their two eyes closed because criminals are breathing down their neck despite the conspicuous presence of constituted authorities, then something is clearly wrong.  It is for the state government to design ways to keep its territory safe while putting to flight all agents of destabilization and destruction.

    The clock is furiously ticking until the light finally dies off in Nigeria’s ‘Light of the nation’ state.

    • Kene Obiezu,

    keneobiezu@gmail.com

  • The right to development and governance

    The right to development and governance

    • By Ekpa Stanley Ekpa

    Sir: The right to development is fundamental to building an inclusive and prosperous society. It ensures that every individual and community have access to the resources and opportunities needed to live a life of dignity. In Nigeria, like most other developing countries around the world, the divide between urban and rural areas continues to undermine this right. While urban cities like Lagos, Abuja, Port-Harcourt and other capital cities benefit from relatively advanced infrastructure, economic opportunities, and services, rural areas, with nearly half of Nigeria’s population, struggle with inadequate access to basic amenities such as clean water, electricity, healthcare, and education.

    For instance, according to Nigeria’s National Bureau of Statistics, 61% of rural Nigerians live in poverty, compared to 42% in urban areas. Similarly, while urban areas enjoy an electrification rate of about 85%, only 41% of rural communities have access to electricity. These disparities illustrate the urgent need to prioritize the right to development and extend governance to every inch of Nigeria.

    Globally, the right to development has been enshrined in the constitutions of several countries, where it is recognized as enforceable in court. South Africa stands out as a model, with its constitution guaranteeing socio-economic rights, including access to housing, healthcare, education, and social security. Citizens can demand these rights through litigation, as seen in cases like Government of the Republic of South Africa vs. Grootboom, where the Constitutional Court ruled that the government must take reasonable measures to provide adequate housing. India has also broadened the interpretation of its constitution’s right to life to include the right to live with dignity, incorporating development-related rights such as education, healthcare, and a clean environment.

    In contrast, Chapter Two of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), while emphasizing socio-economic rights in its directive principles of state policy, falls short of making these rights justiciable, limiting the ability of citizens to hold the government accountable for inability to provide the constitutionally envisaged development for Nigeria and Nigerians.

    Since development is deeply intertwined with fundamental human rights, the right to education, health, and shelter, which are integral to human dignity, cannot be achieved without deliberate and inclusive governance that prioritizes equitable development. In our rural areas, where schools are often understaffed and healthcare facilities under-equipped, these rights remain elusive.

    As reported by UNICEF, rural primary school attendance is just 60%, compared to 80% in urban areas, while maternal mortality rates in rural regions are more than double those in cities, reflecting the lack of adequate healthcare services. These disparities are a stark reminder that the right to development is essential for fulfilling the broader spectrum of human rights enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution.

    Read Also: Presidency blasts Bauchi governor over remarks on Tinubu

    Effective governance and efficiency in public service delivery across the 774 local government areas, and all entities and systems of governance in Nigeria is critical to achieving the right to development. This requires targeted investments to address disparities and ensure that rural areas are not left behind. Policies must prioritize sectors that directly impact human development particularly at the subnational and local government level, such as agriculture, education, healthcare, and infrastructure.

    Given that improving rural roads and transport networks would enhance access to markets, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth, governments at the local level must prioritize and ensure quality in expanding and opening communities for productivity and prosperity. Similarly, expanding rural electrification would unlock opportunities for small businesses, improve living standards, and foster economic inclusivity. Additionally, equitable allocation of resources is essential to ensure that all regions benefit from national development plans.

    Governing every inch of Nigeria requires leveraging technology to bridge the urban-rural divide. Digital tools can enhance the efficiency and accessibility of development initiatives, from deploying e-governance platforms to streamline service delivery to using data analytics for better resource allocation. In remote areas, mobile technology can expand access to education and healthcare, while geographic information systems (GIS) can help identify underserved regions and prioritize infrastructure projects.

    But our leaders must never allow tech and digital engagements to replace their human and physical interaction with constituents. Governing every inch of Nigeria with fairness and accountability ensures that no community is left behind and that the benefits of development are shared equitably. If we make the right to development justiciable, investing in rural transformation, and embrace inclusive governance, Nigeria can bridge the gap between urban and rural areas and fulfil the promise of a society where every citizen has an equal opportunity to thrive. Only through such deliberate efforts can our country achieve shared prosperity and strengthen our foundation for sustainable development.

    • Ekpa Stanley Ekpa,

     ekpastanleyekpa@gmail.com

  • Dakuku: The art of redefining intellectual politics

    Dakuku: The art of redefining intellectual politics

    • By Olugbenga Oke

    Sir: Intellectuals play a crucial role in shaping societies’ trajectory, particularly through their engagement in political discourse. Their ability to influence policy, drive societal change, and inspire public engagement stems from a deep reservoir of knowledge and critical thinking.

    In governance, intellectuals act as guiding forces, offering insights that shape political development. By analysing issues, proposing solutions, and encouraging civic participation, they foster transparency and accountability, essential ingredients for a thriving democracy.

    Dakuku Peterside is a prominent intellectual whose contributions to political discourse have had a defining influence. He consistently addresses the pressing challenges facing the nation through his weekly commentaries, providing a platform for public engagement and political reflection. His voice echoes across political spaces, clarifying governance issues and national development. Peterside’s engagement exemplifies the power of intellectuals to serve as intermediaries between the government and the populace, translating complex issues into digestible narratives that resonate with the public.

    One of his primary focuses is the importance of active public participation in governance. He emphasizes that political systems thrive when citizens are involved in the democratic process, reinforcing that governance is not the sole responsibility of political leaders but a collective effort that requires societal involvement. His commentaries often stress that public engagement is not just essential, but empowering, as it is the key to holding leaders accountable and fostering an environment of transparency.

    In addition to advocating for civic participation, Peterside underscores the value of responsible critique. He maintains that intellectuals must approach political analysis with a sense of balance and purpose. While critique is necessary, it should not be destructive but instead offer practical solutions that contribute to the nation’s growth. Peterside’s approach reflects a nuanced understanding of governance, where constructive dialogue leads to progress. His writings reveal an unwavering belief in the power of intellectual discourse to drive reform, positioning critique as a tool for development rather than mere opposition.

    Another recurring theme in Peterside’s work is the interconnectedness between governance and societal involvement. He consistently highlights the idea that political leadership must reflect the will and aspirations of the people. In his view, governance should reflect collective interests achieved through continuous dialogue between leaders and citizens. This belief reinforces that intellectual engagement is vital for bridging the gap between the public and policymakers, ensuring that governance remains inclusive and responsive.

    Read Also: Governor Ododo presents N3 billion to 80 communities in Kogi

    Peterside’s contributions are particularly relevant to addressing Nigeria’s contemporary challenges. His commentaries shed light on corruption, economic instability, and inefficiencies within the public sector. Peterside plays a critical role in fostering national awareness and encouraging reforms by bringing these matters to the forefront. His insights give policymakers a clearer understanding of public sentiment, allowing for more informed decision-making processes.

    As Nigeria grapples with socio-political and economic complexities, the role of intellectuals like Dakuku Peterside becomes even more significant. His voice is a beacon, guiding national discourse and promoting informed debate. Peterside’s writings not only shape policy directions but also inspire civic participation and foster national development. His dedication to political engagement exemplifies the transformative power of intellectuals in addressing the country’s most pressing issues.

    Today, December 31, Peterside’s birthday, we celebrate his remarkable contributions to political discourse and the broader role of intellectuals in shaping Nigeria’s political landscape. This day is not just a recognition of Peterside’s achievements, but an acknowledgement of the vital importance of intellectuals in governance and society. It serves as a reminder of the enduring impact that thought leaders can have in driving societal progress and inspiring the next generation of intellectuals to participate in political conversations actively.

    •Olugbenga Oke,

    Lagos.

  • Between Ibadan stampede and Bodija explosion

    Between Ibadan stampede and Bodija explosion

    Sir: Exactly on January 16, almost a year ago, there was a massive blast at Adeyi Avenue Old Bodija in Ibadan where explosives stored at a private residence detonated and claimed some souls while dozens of other residents of the area were critically injured.

    A day after the calamitous incident occurred, the governor of Oyo State, Engr Seyi Makinde, made a public announcement that the explosion emanated through the storage of some dangerous devices by some illegal miners who resided in the neighbourhood where the gruesome episode erupted.

    Naturally the governor’s announcement came as a shock to many for they wondered how illegal miners could manage to have a hide-out in the vicinity very close to government house/office without the knowledge of the governor or any government agency. Many concluded that if the state government had woken up to its responsibility of protection of lives and property of Oyo State residents, the explosion at Bodija would have been averted.

    As expected, the governor apologized and promised that such incident would never rear its ugly head again as the tragic occurrence had woken the consciousness of his administration. The governor vowed to put in place a measure – close monitoring of the activities of individuals and groups who could pose a danger to the state and the entire residents – that would finally curb such incident in the future.

    Now can we say that the tragic incident at Bodija a year ago did wake up the consciousness of Oyo State government regarding the recent stampede at Islamic High School, Bashorun Ibadan?

    Read Also: Mumuni urges Tinubu to engage UN, AU over state-sponsored terrorism allegation

    Prior to the stampede that led to the loss of 35 lives, several advertisements on the proposed children funfair where freebies were expected to be gifted to about 5,000 children were being aired on the media for days. Why didn’t the appropriate government agency put a stop to such event which was certain to have in attendance more than 10,000 attendees, children, their parents and gate crashers? Which ministry authorized the use of a school premises for such gigantic turnout? After all the school premises where the incident happened is a government-owned school.

    This is another wake-up call on Governor Makinde to, as from this moment, take the security of people seriously for the state cannot afford to continue losing precious souls to this kind of avoidable incident. If any lesson had been learnt from the Bodija blast, I believe the recent stampede at Bashorun wouldn’t have occurred. Has any lesson been learnt from this tragedy?

    •Ademola ‘Babalow’ Babalola, babalolaademola39@gmail.com