The Nation Newspaper

Category: Opinion

  • Nigeria’s tortuous journey to greatness

    Nigeria’s tortuous journey to greatness

    Chiedu Uche Okoye

     

    SIR: Perhaps, the lumping together of the southern and northern protectorates of Nigeria was one of the causes of our problem of disunity and ethnic hatred. It should be noted that Sudan, which had almost the same colonial experience as Nigeria, had disintegrated with South Sudan emerging from it. This is a grim pointer to the fact that the amalgamation of Nigeria was a fatal error; and that it has contributed in no small way to our problem of ethnicity.

    But Nigeria is a cat with nine lives considering the fact that it emerged from countless sectarian conflicts, political troubles, and gratuitous civil war not dismembered. The Nigeria-Biafra civil war, which raged between 1967 and 1970, the cancelled June 12, 1993 Presidential election problem, the Maitatsine religious uprising, and the hijacking of political power by the cabal during President Alhaji Umaru Musa Yar’adua’s illness failed to upend Nigeria and cause its disintegration.

    So, now, Nigeria has continued to exist as one country against all expectations. And, surprisingly, the American political pundits’ prediction about Nigeria’s imminent doomsday and disintegration failed to materialize. Although Nigeria has not disintegrated, it is still a disunited country. The sad fact is that Nigerians place their selfish and parochial interests and the interests of their ethnic groups above Nigeria’s interests when issues affecting the country crop up. Our problem of disunity becomes obvious and rears up its ugly head when we are to hold general elections to elect the President of Nigeria.

    Now, it is evident to us, and bears restating here, that our recruitment processes and political culture do throw up political leaders, who cannot entrench lasting peace and unity in the country and harness our vast human and material resources to transform Nigeria, positively. So, it is imperative for us to re-think and re-jig our political recruitment processes and mechanisms so as to be able to elect political leaders at different governmental levels, who can better our lots in life, and take Nigeria to greater economic and technological heights. But re-thinking and re-jigging our political recruitment processes and mechanisms presuppose that we change our political culture and orientation by socializing the masses into acceptable democratic norms and political culture, and inculcating ennobling and lofty family values into them.

    Our abiding by the principle of rotational presidency is the antidote to the centrifugal forces pulling Nigeria apart. Each geopolitical zone in Nigeria has politicians, who possess leadership qualities, probity, patriotism, political philosophies, and sense of fairness. Only a politically stable country that is led by a visionary leader can become a developed country.

    Incorporating the principle of rotational presidency into our constitution, and rethinking and re-jigging our political recruitment processes and mechanisms are the potent pills that can cure Nigeria of its debilitating maladies.

    • Chiedu Uche Okoye,

    Uruowulu-Obosi, Anambra State.

  • The looming storm

    The looming storm

    Kayode Idowu

    Unless something gives in the brewing test of will over recent increases in domestic price of petrol and electricity tariff, Nigeria is about hitting a storm of civil unrest that portends fresh dislocations in the national economy.

    The Trade Union Congress (TUC) will this Wednesday, 23rd September, head to the trenches with 79 civil society groups and ally labour unions on ‘an indefinite industrial action and national protest’ over the policies of the Muhammadu Buhari administration that it argued had left Nigerian workers and their families in life threatening penury. The action will kick in upon expiration of a seven-day ultimatum issued by the union in a letter last week to the President.

    Few days further down – that is, Monday, 28th September – the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) will as well pick the gauntlet in what it threatened would be a “total shutdown of the country’s economy,” if issues at stake aren’t addressed by the expiration of a 14-day ultimatum it issued. Congress President Ayuba Wabba said the labour centre would “mobilise its members, civil society allies and other social partners to try to resist the policies (that) had driven many into poverty.”

    The threatened actions are coming after negotiations between government and labour as well as civil society leaders last week were deadlocked. Government insists there is no way out of its policy of deregulation that has seen domestic price of petrol spiral to between N160 and N162 per litre and inexorably potentiated to further rise, while electricity is now being charged by distribution companies (DisCos) on a ‘cost reflective tariff’ that will make some consumers pay up to 100 percent more than previous rates. The two labour centres argue, however, that these policies entail a devastating multiplier effect that has driven many Nigerians into ruinous poverty.

    Government had plied the argument broadly that the downstream petroleum sector had been fully deregulated; that no provision was made for subsidy in the 2010 budget and since petrol for domestic consumption is largely imported, the pump price would unmodulatedly reflect dynamics on the international crude market – invariably also, the foreign exchange market although government did not clearly state so; that subsidies had been a channel of humongous waste over the years that couldn’t be sustained; that government earnings had fallen by about 60 percent, hence there were simply no funds to deploy as subsidies even if it wanted; and that Nigeria yet enjoyed cheaper consumption costs comparable to other countries in the West and Central Africa sub-regions. Similar lines of argument were advanced for the new electricity tariff.

    But TUC has rejoined that its members – indeed, other Nigerians as well – can’t bear the burden any longer, thus it demanded that government reverse the price increases among other things. In its letter to the President, the union said Nigerians faced “gradual and steady annihilation” by government policy designs such as the progressive increase in the price of petrol, which is being imported without concrete efforts made to get local refineries working. In the same way, the hike in electricity tariff was “without proper consultation and consideration of the effect of Covid-19, commensurate electricity supply, non-provision of prepaid meters (to consumers) and other biting economic realities,” among other factors. Responding subsequently to an argument by Labour and Employment Minister Chris Ngige that the union’s ultimatum was misplaced, and by implication void under international labour law because it was addressed to President Buhari rather than to him as the overseer of labour matters in Nigeria, TUC President Quadri Olaleye said: “Let the minister continue to quote the law. At the expiration of the seven days, he would see the action; he can then tell us if it is null and void or not…This one is beyond labour matters.  We are not talking about salary increase here. We are talking of something that affects members of the union and the general populace.”

    For its part, NLC said the price increases had severely whittled the purchasing power of Nigerians and fuelled high costs of goods and services, thereby completely eroding the gains of the N30,000 minimum wage. Wabba argued: “Many people are at pains now. The impact of the electricity tariff is the fact that those in category ‘A,’ which they have increased their tariffs, are manufacturers who will transfer the cost to their goods and services. That is why the cost of goods and services are also going up. Those issues that constitute the price is part of the inefficiency in the system, which government hitherto has been paying for and christened subsidy. Government cannot transfer its inefficiency to the people.” He revealed the bargaining line labour adopted with government, saying: “At this point, what do you have on the table to cushion the effects on workers, their families, because they have been pushed to the wall and already at the edge? Do you have anything for us? So that we can now say that despite these challenges, this is what I have for Nigerian workers that they can be able to have something that can cushion this effect for them.”

    Life on ‘Main Street’ where you would find the majority of Nigerians totally bears out the issues labour has highlighted, and shows government as cocooned on ‘Privy Street’ from the realities. Not that too many object to deregulation as a general principle of economic management; the argument, rather, is: without first putting in place an ancillary framework for locally modulating the effects of international market forces, government would be tacitly abdicating by handing Nigerians over to free-wheeling deregulation. Economic headwinds before now had seen inflation rate at 13.2 percent in August; this can only get worse with the double whammy of price hike effected at the beginning of September. When the Presidency was recently reported saying food prices were crashing, it was betrayed as speaking from an insulated prism, because a widely applicable though symbolic counter-indication is the price of bread that bakers announced was being jerked up inevitably by 50 percent.

    The issue that arises is how citizens are being buffered. Government presently isn’t even faintly contemplating salary adjustments, and far less so private sector employers. A suitable policy in the circumstance would be one that comprehensively modulates the local economy against price spikes instigated by wild forces of the free market. Tokenistic policies like handouts to the ‘more vulnerable’ and distribution of buses to co-operatives with the hope of succoring commuters against high fares would not cut it because palliatives never get to those who genuinely need them. In any event, how do you succor the poor against pervasive knock-on effect on sundry consumer goods and services. True, government promised autogas as a cheaper alternative to petrol; but it is yet to lay out the template on how the product would be made commonly available and how every vehicle currently using petrol, including urban commuter buses, would access services to convert to autogas usage. Deregulating fuel price before implanting such template is jumping the gun; and amidst the resulting hardships, Nigerians simply aren’t enamored by mere promises.

    These are some factors at play as labour hits the trenches. If experience offers a guide, the threatened mass actions would not only involve workers, including those in sensitive sectors downing tools, there will also be street protests by huge crowds. Security agents will be on razor edge to contain angry crowds without levying crude force that could result in injuries or worse, fatalities; it will be a defining test for Nigerian security rules of engagement before the eyes the global community that will be trained on this country.

    But it is as well important labour stays mindful that citizens could suffer from the action, especially if too long drawn. For instance, livelihoods could get endangered by a protracted strike so close on the heels of the Covid-19 lockdown that had forced many businesses on a tailspin. Moreover, there is already a ‘win’ against government, which designed deregulation as an open sesame of price increases trailing upswings in the international market. Take my word: with the present intensity of opposition to price increases, government will hesitate to jerk up again in November – meaning the policy is ‘DoA’ (dead on arrival).

    • Please join me on kayodeidowu.blogspot.befor conversation.
  • Selfish leadership and disunity in Nigeria’s diversity

    Selfish leadership and disunity in Nigeria’s diversity

    Jimoh Olorede

    SIR: Leadership in any polity is the machinery that drives the vision, mission and ideology of a nation. Leadership has to do with the power or ability to lead other people. The principal problem of Nigeria is leadership; other problems are its vices, derivatives or offshoots.

    Instead of focusing on unity of our colonialism-designed diversity, Nigerian leaders always indulge in altercations with vituperative criticisms. Their selfishness blindfolds them to the extent that they can’t resist washing their dirty linen in public, especially in the media. Last Thursday, the narrative of former President Obasanjo’s vituperative comments and malicious verbal attacks against President Buhari led government was everywhere.

    Obasanjo was delivering a paper titled; “Moving Nigeria Away from Tipping Over” at an allegedly secluded consultative dialogue in Abuja when he threw his verbal pebbles at the president, saying Nigeria is a failed state under Muhammadu Buhari, and expressing fears of possible disintegration. These, among other destructive, unprintable comments, are weighty opinionated statements that lack constructiveness.

    A former president turned social critic should calm down. Asking Obasanjo to calm down is not in any way in support of Buhari, who might be ‘guilty’ as accused. He (Obasanjo) had ruled this country for not less than 10 years during which he should have fixed all the problems he’s now identifying. So, on accusation of guilt of maladministration, Obasanjo is as guilty as Buhari, if he claimed Buhari is guilty.

    Similarly, the presidency has also replied Obasanjo, addressing him as “yesterday’s man”. Other leaders and stakeholders, both for and against, have also joined in the altercations, vituperations and ignoble campaigns of calumny, which tend to divide us more than unite us. Nigeria’s leadership problem is like the proverbial lame person who replies public complaints over his awkward position asking them to look down at his legs and not up at his head. Amalgamation of northern and southern protectorate of Nigeria in 1914 was the bane of our diversity problem in today’s Nigeria.

    And since we were given independence in 1960, our leadership has been more of a bane than a boon for our national existence. The fact that Obasanjo was addressing “a meeting of ethnic and regional leaders with a well-known antagonistic disposition towards Buhari and his government”, as reported, shows he’s rehashing the disintegration which he has envisaged.

    Obasanjo was a former president of this country. If he has any genuine idea that can help us as a nation, he should honourably contact President Buhari instead of airing their dirty laundry in public. The problem with our leaders is that they do things with selfish motives and not in national interest.

     

    • Jimoh Olorede, oloredejimoh@gmail.com,
  • The Anambra spirit

    The Anambra spirit

    Ejike Anyaduba

    SIR: Anambra is perhaps one of the few states in Nigeria that have chalked up some good mention. Her respect comes not from her size, but her worth. She has limited land space – the next smallest state after Lagos and currently battles soil erosion in over a thousand sites that further shrinks her size. The worth of Anambra in the words of the British philosopher, John Stuart Mill, “is the worth of the individuals composing it”. Anambra stakes good claim to producing people of high intellect, uncommon industry and brilliant accomplishments.

    She may not always get her acts right and can trip up on issues that require little understanding to resolve. The failed abduction of her governor sometimes in 2003 was one such issue that required less of the approach she employed in dealing with the problem. However, with sufficient dose of the Anambra spirit, she easily springs back from every crisis to stay the pace.

    Anambra is blessed with quality human capital and a succession of good leaders. What she loses, running intense and money-guzzling political campaigns, she duly compensates with her capacity to keep aglow the light that illuminates the path that other states follow.

    In the last couple of years, the state has made some giant leap in governance that puts her ahead of others better positioned to lead the charge. She has been mentioned as one of the few states in Nigeria that live above the margins of poverty. The National Bureau of Statistics in its 2019 official report named Anambra, Lagos, Delta, Ogun, and a few other states as having the least percentage of poverty head count in Nigeria.

    It took the achievement on security to unlock the potentials hitherto latent in the state. Every sector of the state economy has leapt to sudden height to the extent that Anambra can now boast of a product brand or two – like the Anambra rice. People, particularly investors, who until now, had scoffed at the idea of bringing their investments home either out of fear of abductors, armed robbers or other wastes of space, have in one burst of energy changed the investment profile of the state. Some of these industries like Coscharis Farm, Awka Millennium City, JOSAN Rice mill, Lynden Integrated Farms, Ekcel Farm, Stine Rice, Chelsea Farm etc though in existence, were unproductive for the reasons above. There is also appreciable rise in micro, small and medium businesses in the state with the establishment of the Anambra State Small Business Agency (ASBA) in 2014 by the Obiano administration to facilitate access to resources required by investors in that cadre of enterprise to achieve sustainable development in Anambra state.

    The effort of the administration in strengthening some institutions of government like the tax system and health insurance scheme has led to some changes that are impacting positively on the state. From netting N8billion in tax returns in 2013, the state has notched up to N26 billion in 2019. The Anambra State Internal Revenue Service, using improved data collection has been able to nip off leakages and established, through collaboration with National Bureau of Statistics, that about 1.2 million people are doing business in the state. It is not any different in what the state does with her introduction of the Anambra State Health Insurance Agency (ASHIA). Well over 90,000 persons are on the scheme, twice the number of enrollees on a standard health insurance scheme. It is well to remember that certain ailments not easily on health insurance scheme like tuberculosis is on ASHIA scheme. With a monthly fee of N1, 000 and N12, 000 per year a resident becomes an enrollee on the scheme.  No doubt, Anambra’s development curve is on the rise and does not betray any sign of downward slant. It is expected to be furthered in the months ahead.

    • Ejike Anyaduba, Abatete, Anambra State.
  • Enter Wike – Obaseki’s new godfather

    Enter Wike – Obaseki’s new godfather

    Fredrick Nwabufo

     

    SIR: Power is a principal thing but the path on which we tread to its courts matters. I think it is hypocritical fighting a system but at the same time enjoying the dysfunctionality of that system.

    The Edo governorship election has taken its place in the past of gritty and rousing contests. But the lessons from the election will remain fecund in our political discourse. One thing stands out. Nigerians detest the ‘’contrivances of godfatherism’’. The election is inherently an action against godfatherism and all its appliances.

    The first rule of godfatherism is ‘’do not act like a godfather’’. Adams Oshiomhole, former national chairman of the APC, broke this canon by stepping beyond the remit of his mortal powers and attempting to wrestle with the celestials. His ego got the better of him. He wanted to whip an ‘’erring’’ godson to shape but lost himself in the process. He cut off his nose to spite his face.

    But what is next for Obaseki? Will he rebel against his new ‘’godfather(s)’’ in the PDP who gave him the platform to fulfil his ambition? And is his re-election the end of godfatherism in Edo as he postures? I think not. National interest succumbs to group and individual interest in our brand of politics. It does not reward rebels or people of independent disposition. To chance on political office, you must contort your principles and personal integrity to fit into the agenda of the keepers of the political platforms, notoriously regarded as the ‘godfathers’. The godfathers control these political platforms. They hold the reins of political progression. So, as long as the present political ecosystem subsists, godfatherism will remain in Nigeria.’’

    Really, I see Obaseki fleeing from one godfather drama to another. The governor will realise soon enough that his new political benefactor, Nyesom Wike is an absolutist; a one of kind godfather. Wike combines brute with arrogance. He does not fancy otherness or contraries. It is his way always.

    The governor of Rivers State runs the PDP – by virtue of the resources at his disposal. The party conforms to his whim and caprices. It is said in PDP circles, you cannot get anything done in the party without Wike’s blessings. In September 2018, he threatened that there would be consequences if the PDP moved the party’s national convention away from Port Harcourt. The leadership of the party quickly fell in line.

    When Wike sneezes, the PDP catches cold. Clearly, Obaseki understood this as he hurriedly paid obeisance to Wike soon after he defected to the PDP – when the APC rejected him. In the build-up to the Edo election in June, Wike threatened to withdraw support for Obaseki over a publication alleging he was in cahoots with some persons to stop the Edo governor from participating in the party’s primary election – and as it is customary there was grovelling and back-bending to the godfather and ‘’national governor of the PDP’’ .

    Wike was named PDP Edo campaign DG principally as a recognition of his pre-eminence in the affairs of the party. He is the PDP. He holds the reins of political progression in the party. He calls the shots. He is the godfather. But how well can Obaseki navigate through the relationship maze with Wike who is erratic, impulsive, short-tempered and domineering?

    Well, I foresee that there be will spheres of conflict between Obaseki and Wike; not necessarily as regards areas of administration in Edo, but on differences in political interest and pursuits.

    Obaseki must beware of the new godfather and the godfathers in the PDP. Wike fights dirty.

     

    • Fredrick Nwabufo, fredricknwabufo@yahoo.com
  • Understanding Tupocracy: The political theory propounded in Nigeria to the world

    Understanding Tupocracy: The political theory propounded in Nigeria to the world

    Nigeria is one of the countries with the highest number of graduates with doctoral degrees. As a country, our intellectual dexterity is top notch as we have played major roles to expand the scope of Education in the world.

    We have had powerful intellectuals who reached global prominence by their extensive contribution to educational development in all the educational sectors.

    Names like Professor Wole Soyinka, Chinua Achebe, JP Clark, Professor Adenike Grange; the first ever Nigerian Female Minister of Health and many other names have been recognized for their massive contributions to the development of their academic fields which falls within the confines of education.

    Nigeria is about to make another strong impact on the global stage with the discovery of a new political theory which may become a major political theory that will be adopted by countries.

    In 2006, a major breakthrough was achieved in the social science world when a PhD Dissertation titled ‘An understanding of Tupos in Pauline Letters on the Pastoral Ministry of the Church and its implication for Contemporary society’ got a distinction from the Board of Examiners of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. Dr. Godwin Akpan Amaowoh who is the brain behind the new theory has since published the book after extensive research work.

    A closer look into the details of what Tupocracy is will convince one of the need for Tupocracy to be adopted as a system of government. Tupocracy, also known as leadership by example, refers to a style of governance or leadership characterized by the leader’s demonstration of exemplary behavior, values, and principles. This concept is often associated with the former President of Uruguay, José Mujica, who embodied the principles of simplicity, humility, and integrity during his time in office.

    Leadership by example is a powerful approach that emphasizes the leader’s actions rather than mere words. It involves leading through personal conduct and setting a positive example for others to follow. Instead of relying solely on authority or position, leaders who practice Tupocracy understand the importance of moral influence and the impact their behavior has on their followers. 

    Professor of Law at the Faculty of Law, University of Uyo, Nigeria and also the President of the Legal Research Gender Rights and Leadership Initiative (LEGENDLI) once wrote the following in a paper presentation about Tupocracy: “Dr. Amaowoh has introduced a new terminology in governance to the world and our dictionary. If theocracy is a government in which God is recognized as the Supreme civil rule, directly or through a priestly order, and democracy is a government elected by the people and for the people, TUPOCRACY is rightly coined to mean a government in which the leaders lead by positive example.”

    One of the key aspects of Tupocracy is the alignment between the leader’s words, beliefs, and actions. Leaders who practice this approach understand that their actions speak louder than their words. They are consistent in their behaviour and make a conscious effort to model the values and principles they expect others to uphold. This consistency builds trust, credibility, and respect among their followers. Moreover, leaders who practice Tupocracy are willing to make personal sacrifices for the greater good. They prioritize the needs of their constituents and demonstrate a selfless approach to leadership.

    By embodying the values they promote, they inspire others to work towards a common goal and motivate them to follow their lead. Tupocracy also emphasizes the importance of transparency and accountability. Leaders who practice this approach are open and honest in their communication, sharing information with their followers and taking responsibility for their actions. They encourage a culture of integrity and ethical behavior within their organizations or communities.

    Furthermore, leaders who practice Tupocracy foster a culture of empathy and compassion. They actively listen to the concerns and needs of their constituents, demonstrating a genuine understanding and care for their well-being. By showing empathy, leaders can connect with their followers on a deeper level, which enhances trust and promotes unity.

    The impact of leadership by example extends beyond the immediate followers. It sets a standard for behavior and values that can permeate the society as a whole. When leaders exemplify honesty, integrity, and selflessness, they inspire others to adopt similar attitudes and behaviors. This can lead to positive social change and the development of a more responsible and ethical society.

    Tupocracy which is leadership by example, is a powerful approach that emphasizes the importance of a leader’s actions and behaviors. By embodying the values and principles they promote, leaders who practice Tupocracy inspire others to follow their lead and create a positive and ethical environment. 

    This style of leadership has the potential to shape societies and foster a culture of integrity, accountability, and compassion.

    Leaders who practice Tupocracy understand that their behavior is being closely observed by those they lead. They recognize that their actions have a profound impact on the attitudes, morale, and motivation of their followers. Therefore, they strive to be role models and exemplify the qualities they wish to see in others.

    One of the key benefits of Tupocracy is its ability to create a sense of unity and shared purpose. When leaders lead by example, they create a common set of values and behaviors that everyone can rally around. This shared sense of purpose fosters collaboration, cooperation, and a stronger sense of community development.

    Moreover, leadership by example can be particularly effective in times of crisis or adversity. During such challenging periods, people look to their leaders for guidance and reassurance. Leaders who exemplify resilience, courage, and determination inspire their followers to persevere and overcome obstacles. By staying true to their values and displaying unwavering commitment, they instill confidence and motivate others to keep moving forward.

    Tupocracy also helps to promote a culture of personal growth and development. When leaders consistently demonstrate a commitment to self-improvement and continuous learning, they encourage their followers to do the same. By setting an example of lifelong learning and embracing growth opportunities, leaders inspire their teams to strive for excellence and reach their full potential.

    Additionally, leadership by example contributes to the building of trust and loyalty. When leaders consistently act in line with their stated values and principles, they establish a reputation for integrity and authenticity. This fosters trust among their followers, as they can rely on their leader to act in a consistent and ethical manner. As trust grows, so does loyalty, and followers become more willing to go above and beyond for their leader and the shared goals they believe in.

    However, it is important to note that Tupocracy is not without its challenges. Leaders who choose to lead by example must be mindful of the immense responsibility they carry. They must be aware of the impact of their actions and decisions on others. It requires a high level of self-awareness, self-discipline, and a willingness to be held accountable for their behavior.

    In conclusion, Tupocracy, which is leadership by example, is a powerful and influential approach to leadership. By embodying the values, behaviors, and principles they wish to instill in others, leaders who practice Tupocracy inspire and motivate their followers. They foster unity, trust, and personal growth, and contribute to the overall development of ethical and responsible societies.

  • Are male politicians dinosaaurs?

    Are male politicians dinosaaurs?

    Nnedinso Ogaziechi

    If we are to go by the story of the creation, God created man and seeing that he needed help, made the woman. It is therefore funny that the same man that the creator found a helpmate for often try to relegate the woman to the background and ultimately gets overwhelmed by duties that ought to be shared by the two genders.

    Ironically, the same creative process runs through the multiplication of humans through procreation. Neither of the genders can bring about the birth of a regular human without the other. Technology and science can only go as far as we have seen. For now, a sperm and an egg are still needed for a fertilization to take place.

    It is therefore a descent to the abnormal that in modern leadership tussle around the world, some ill-informed men still assume a sense of entitlement and try everything to exclude women. However, ironically, in countries that have adopted democracy, more women vote at elections and the same men with a flawed sense of entitlement still seek the votes of women to win at the polls. Women are the most consistent, active and loyal voting bloc in the world.

    However, the idea of relegating women to the background in leadership is neither socially nor economically profitable for any nation. African women especially had always provided leadership in pristine times before the colonial masters came with the idea of ‘housewives’ because their wives where pretty much idle at home.

    The legendary amazons of Dahomey and the various legendary queens in Africa all provided political and economic leadership to complement the men too. There were complimentary leadership styles for both genders and trouble started when the men decided to appropriate the political and economic spaces and to deal women some tokenism.

    This trend is an obvious ill-wind that blows no one any good as the economies of the crassly patriarchal societies tend to show, more poverty and social ills hold down the economies of such nations and Nigeria is a good example.

    The Roundtable Conversation had the Honorable Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation in Lagos state, Cecelia Bolaji Dada, an astute administrator/politician. She was in the Lagos State Sports Commission and later became an executive secretary before being elected as the Vice Chairman for Apapa Local Government for two terms.  As an award-winning Vice Chairman of a local government, she believes that women have nothing to fear when they are competent and ready to work to develop their communities and nation.

    To Bolaji, competence has no gender and the readiness to serve is personal to everyone. She believes that very often, some women show defeatist attitude when it comes to political participation but she believes that mentorship by the few women who are already in politics must be taken more seriously. In her days as Vice Chairman of Apapa Local government, mentoring younger women was a passion for her and the dividends have been huge. It is important for women to first have confidence in themselves, be disciplined enough to earn respect of everyone and be ready to show the full female capacity in multi-tasking. Neither your work nor the home must be shortchanged if you are a focused human being.

    Planning must be key for women not just in politics but in all spheres of life that they find themselves. Be able to speak up, be able to stand against the men. The fact of life is that most  insecure men are intimidated by brilliant and confident women so they try to frustrate the women so that they will give up because the dictum that what a man can do a woman can do better is not a ruse. Women must be ready to show competence at all levels. There is no position that a determined woman cannot creditably handle.

    The mentorship of young women must be a priority for all women and even men because a well-educated and empowered woman can move mountains. Politics is for everyone and it is ironic that while men lay claim to leadership, women are the real voters and if they are discerning enough to vote, they must be capable of leading too. Political positions should not be an exclusive of men and that is where kudos must go to the past and present governors of Lagos state she says.

    Lagos state is very much ahead of other states when it comes to women inclusion in both elective and appointive positions in the state. The governor, Babajide, Sanwo-Olu recently won the ‘HE for SHE’ Ambassador Award  from an NGO for making his government very inclusive as quite a number of women are in his cabinet and those in the civil service including the judiciary that deserve to be promoted to Permanent Secretaries or appointed as judges equally get their promotions unlike what happens in most other states that the governors tend to play to the gallery whipping up either religious of cultural sentiments that exclude women and deny them what is due them.

    To the Commissioner, the number of women in elective and appointive positions in Lagos state even though there is still room for improvement stands as a morale booster for women to seize the moment and realize that they must step up and participate and not wait to be handed power just because they are women. The political terrain requires a great sense of duty and discipline. Women must stand up to the men with their dignity intact and not be intimidated by name-calling and all those mischievous tags some men use to intimidate women out of politics.

    Leadership is about integrity and any man or woman that shows integrity would always have a seat at the table. Bolaji insist that women must desist from the pull-her-down syndrome that empower men. The idea of seeing women in politics as women of easy virtue empowers the men. In most cases, men are empowered to call female politicians names because most often the women who are not in politics yield to the male blackmail of women. When looked at critically, if a woman is accused of being of easy virtue just because she insists on meeting men at the barricades and defying their mischievous nocturnal meetings by attending same, who are her partners if not the same men?

    She believes women must come together and support the women who are providing leadership either as elected or appointed public servants.  To her, planning for women must be key. Neither the home nor the work should be neglected because women are nurturers. Politics should not affect the home or parenting skills because nature has endowed women with the capacity to multi-task brilliantly.

    She believes that support from discerning men who know the capacity of their partners also helps and that is why she believes that women must marry or be in a relationship with men who would always support their interests progressively no matter the field. She observes that in her case for instance, it was even her husband that motivated her to be an active politician and that support has made all the difference in her administrative and political journey. In mentoring younger ladies, she points out that each woman must be in a relationship with a partner they can communicate effectively with because that is the foundation for trust and counts for a seamless relationship in future.

    It takes a very confident man to allow his wife or partner to attend the ‘intentional’ nocturnal meetings without feeling insecure. It all boils down to a mutual sense of trust and loyalty for partners to trust each other. To her, the main issue to her is, the idea of blackmailing female politicians by the society is a cultural tool of oppression. She believes that no profession corrupts anyone. People decide their moral compass irrespective of their profession or political activities. People still accuse doctors, nurses, actors, bankers, traders, even full time housewives whose husbands are insecure would still complain.

    Having been in government since the year 2000, she knows and has observed enough to realize that women are the ones holding themselves back. Being the only woman on the board of the Lagos State Sports Council, then Secretary to Apapa local government then to the vice Chairmanship position for two terms and other political experiences along up till now as a Commissioner in Lagos along other very strong and active women makes her conclude that if only women can dream it, they can achieve it because women are pillars for nation building.

    Appointive posts do not make you a politician, starting from your communities and wards should be the initial steps to build your political growth on. Politics must be taken from the bottom up not the other way round. Most times some women assume they can just jump out and become a governor or president, no, the men will always beat you to it because they often are the ones going from their wards to the pinnacle which is the Presidency. Women must realize that participatory democracy is about numbers and not a sentimental gender issue.

    The take away from this conversation is that men are not the political dinosaurs that most women often assume. The decision to be politically involved should be made for development by women who do not have to wait to be handed power on a platter. Mentorship is key for women.  Most men in or out of politics would support any serious minded woman able and ready to serve. A partner’s support for a woman is an addition and that should often inform choices of a partner. Lagos state leads in women inclusiveness in governance.

    What are other states up to? The dialogue continues…

  • Again, Obasanjo’s sermon on Nigeria

    Again, Obasanjo’s sermon on Nigeria

    Abiodun Komolafe

    Nigeria’s former president, Olusegun Obasanjo, will not stop amazing Nigerians! In yet another in the series of what could be described as ‘speaking truth to power’, Obasanjo recently berated the Muhammadu Buhari-led administration for mismanaging the country’s diversity. According to him, “old fault lines that were disappearing have opened up in greater fissures and with drums of hatred, disintegration and separation and accompanying choruses being heard loud and clear almost everywhere.”

    Well, Obasanjo may, perhaps, have made more than enough enemies – in and outside this country – for himself, it will be unwise to ignore the ‘weighty message’ bothering on nation building and survival, which he has brought up at this critical time of our national existence. To begin with, we can’t deny the fact that Nigeria, as we speak, is bleeding, and in need of urgent and all-encompassing attention! As a matter of fact, the whole country would have been adjudged dim-witted if wise counsels like the one in discourse are discarded simply because the bearer of the counsel is a certified rogue.

    Looking at the merits of his arguments, have Obasanjo’s accusers realized that those issues he raised can be supported by true empirical facts, which have nothing to do with sentiments? For example, if the former president said that Nigeria “is fast drifting to a failed state”, is she not, already? If she is not at the moment, is she not speedily on her way towards becoming a pariah state? If he said that the country’s political actors have raped democracy, has it not been raped? If OBJ, as he is fondly called, described dear country as “becoming a basket case and poverty capital of the world”, for God’s sake, isn’t the picture on ground looking even gloomier? Is Nigeria not currently seated, comfortably, as the 6th miserable, and the 3rd poorest nation on earth? Is she not in bottom 10 in child flourishing, of course, below Afghanistan, Sierra Leone and South Sudan? On the Global Corruption Index, is she not 146th?

    In a country that is deeply buried under the rubbles of COVID-19, and inflation rate is currently at 13.22%, the highest jump since October 2016; where bread can no longer be regarded as the staple food of the common man; and, where fuel price and electricity tariff have moved from where they were to where they ought not to have been; ditto for Value Added Tax (VAT), the odds are starkly against the government. For a government that is said to have lost 65% of its national revenue, these are the issues to think about, neither claptraps about the messenger, nor motion-without-movement, medicine-after-death, dead-on-arrival assurances that can’t assuage the anger and frustrations of the people.

    Matter-of-factly speaking, it is not enough to identify problems or look at the solution from a grandiose, political end. Hence, the philosophy of what works! Yes, what Nigeria needs at a time like this are concerted efforts that can blur political, selfish interests, and subsume everything under national interest! It is only then that Nigeria can survive. Whether we like it or not, Obasanjo has opened the Pandora box. Let those who have ears hear and meditate on what ‘Balogun Owu’ has said to the nation! That he has even “opened his big mouth” again is not the issue here. Whether or not he was once found wanting as a former president may neither be too relevant nor have significant bearing on what’s on ground. His mouth may even be too small but, should the man collapse and die today, history will vindicate him for sounding the right alarm, forewarning Nigerians of imminent danger.

    So, it’s time even the “garrulous and coarsened functionaries and sectarian opportunists” dropped their political toga and worked in the national interest. But if we think the way out lies in myopic, sectional paths, then, Nigerians had better go their separate ways effortlessly (if that’s possible). The other alternative that is already looking very feasible is catastrophe! One can only pray it would not get to that!

     

    My heartfelt gratitude

     

    Again, losing a father and confidant can be emotionally traumatizing. That I am, therefore, heartbroken as a result of the passage of my father, Pa Sunday Alaba Komolafe, is to say the least.

    To this end, let me seize this opportunity to express sincere gratitude to those, who, through their personal calls and condolence messages, showed me solidarity and empathized with me during the trying period. In this list include: Governor Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti State, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, former Governor of Osun State, and Professor Adebayo Williams. Also among them are ‘Wole Olanipekun, SAN; Tola Adeniyi; Babafemi Ojudu; and Victor Ifijeh, Managing Director, Vintage Press Limited.

    However, the most pleasant gesture came from my state governor, Mr. Gboyega Oyetola, who was physically present, more or less, by representation, using Charles ‘Diji Akinola, his quick-witted Chief of Staff. The governor, who majority of the good people of Osun believe is on the right path in governance, even with less or low noise, yet outstanding achievements, found time to send comforts to my family. Mr. Governor, I’m grateful sir. With your current silent revolution of repositioning the state, Nigerians are quite optimistic that, by the end of your first four-year, and second tenure, Osun would have soared beyond the Next Level, looking forward to our El Dorado!

    Rt. Hon. Timothy Owoeye, Speaker, Osun State House of Assembly, who is also from my base, also supported me. Bunmi Obeisun, Chairman, Oriade Local Government, Ijebu-Jesa, was physically present to make sure that the burial passage was a success story.

    My thanks also go to His Royal Majesty, Oba Moses Agunsoye, the Elegboro of Ijebu-Jesa and the paramount ruler of Egboroland. The foremost traditional ruler led some other traditional rulers to the occasion. Kabiyesi, k’ade pe lori! Ki bata pe lese! Igba odun, odun kan!

    The Rt. Reverend Isaac Oluyamo (Bishop, Ijesa North Anglican Diocese); the clergy and the laity of Ijesa North and Osun Anglican Dioceses; and, of course, Olukayode Akinyemi, the retired Archbishop of Kwara Anglican Archdiocese), you have my deepest thanks.

    Gboyega Famodun, Osun APC Chairman; Ajibola Famurewa, Executive Chairman, Osun SUBEB; Remi Omowaye, Commissioner for Works, Osun State; Jamiu Olawumi, Special Adviser to the Governor on Education; Olawale Oshun, Oluwatomilayo Aloba, IJGS (’85 Set); and others too numerous to mention, you all made my day.

    May the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world, repose the soul of my departed father!

     

  • Conducting election under charged atmosphere

    Conducting election under charged atmosphere

    BY EMMANUEL OLADESU

     

     

    The governorship election holding today in Edo State should ordinarily be a festival of choice in an atmosphere of democratic freedom. .

    The choice can be in two dimensions. It could either be affirmation, or the rejection of the current leadership, which translates into the liquidation of the power of incumbency.

    The fear today in Edo does not revolve around the spread of Covid-19 pandemic. The protocol was violated during the campaigns. What is more frightening in the state is prospects of violent eruptions in potential flashpoints. It is because, as warned by credible observers, strongmen; thugs, touts, gangsters and cultists are on the prowl.

    When miscreants spoil for bloodletting on account of elections, it means that Nigeria’s civil rule is still on trial; democracy is still a tall order.

    The puzzle is: will these hooligans dare the 31,000 policemen drafted to the Southsouth state by Police Inspector General Mohammed Adamu?

    The periodic exercise of franchise, which either leads to continuity or change of government, underscores the beauty of democracy. It is an inalienable right, based on citizenship and the constitution.

    The goal of the democratic contest is to demonstrate the numerical superiority of supporters through votes, so that majority can carry the day and the loser, who loses honourably, accepts defeat gallantly, and without a perceived bruise to ego and bravado.

    Unfortunately, popular rule has often suffered, owing to the bastardisation of elections. The democratic maturity appears to be lacking across the federation to the extent that the polity is enveloped in anxiety or apprehension whenever an election is imminent.

    Not only is Nigeria assailed by its weak political culture, its weak institutions are also its albatross.

    The watchword across board seems to be electoral terrorism; a colossal assault on the sanctity of the ballot box and the inadvertent declaration of loser at winner, particularly from 2003. It also logically follows that political leaders are confronted by collective amnesia, because faulty elections were among the factors that drew the curtains on the first and second republics.

    Also, a major source of worry, concern and confusion is the gradual acceptance of systematic rigging through the strategy of vote buying, making power to land on the palm of the highest bidder. This makes voting a cosmetic exercise.

    A rigged election deprives the beneficiary government of legitimacy, an important quality that should not be compromised in any proper democratic setting. It also amounts to vanity of voting and a great disservice to the cause of political decency.

    When will Nigeria get it right? When will votes actually count? Is there hope that electoral battles will not always shift from the ballot box to the court, with the temple of justice always having the last say or giving the final verdict, and with parties in dispute bearing enormous cost of justice and litigation stress?

    Last week, Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Chairman Prof. Mahmud Yakubu raised the alarm that the agency will be conducting the Edo election under a charged atmosphere.

    It is an understatement. Ahead of today’s poll, Edo has been in the news for a wrong reason. Intra-party tension has heightened. Party meetings and rallies had been disrupted. Vandalism and destruction of property associated with rivals, stock pilling of small arms and light weapons and recruitment of militia groups had been reported.

    There is political desperation across board. Those who were compatriots yesterday have become sworn enemies. Both the ruling and opposition parties have threatened fire and brimstone. Edo, it appeared, was spoiling for war; a sort of mutual assured destruction.

    The arrowheads of the major two parties are combative. It evokes the do-or-die slogan and style of a former Nigerian leader in a bid to sustain his party in power by all means and at all costs

    Irked by the turn of events, Oba Ewuare 11 of Benin urged the gladiators to sheath their swords and call their troublesome supporters to order.

    The contest for the Government House became stiff because of the split in the political family that led to the parting of ways. It is expected that the peace accord signed by the leaders and candidates will calm nerves and restore a conducive electoral atmosphere.

    However, the peace accord can only be effective when the factors and conditions that guarantee free and fair elections, which the accord stands for, are satisfied.

    Election is a collective duty involving all and sundry in Edo. The onus is on the stakeholders-flagbearers, party leaders, supporters, security agents, media, monitors and observers, and the umpire to play their roles in accordance with the electoral law and the constitution.

    In the absence of electoral offences tribunal and lack of stiff penalty for monumental electoral fraud, the exercise may continually be at the mercy of political barons who fund thuggery and violence.

    It cannot be ascertained whether the United States’ proposed Visa ban on those unpatriotic Nigerians who usually undermine or subvert the democratic process will halt the trend of political brigandage.

    Candidates and party leaders should not take delight in an Edo State that is on fire. They should appeal to their followers to shun impunity; ballot snatching, vote buying, hijack of sensitive materials, intimidation and violence.

    Those who perpetuate electoral mayhem are not children and relations of candidates and big party men. They are ordinary folks who are financially induced to create obstacles to credible polls, based on the assurance of more crumbs after the completion of their disastrous political project. Their involvement may have been fueled by soaring unemployment, the greatest challenge that government has woefully failed to resolve

    Security agencies, in the process of providing security for the process and participants, should maintain neutrality. They should refrain from the peculiar tendency to become willing tools in the hands of the money bags in politics bubbling with vested interests.

    It is the patriotic duty of security agents to police the votes, without let and hindrance. Police who aid and abet should not be spared from prosecution. When security agents are neutral, the message will be internalised by political actors that certain acts of sabotage are outdated.

    Eyes are on the umpire, which is expected to live to expectation. Having claimed to have prepared well for the exercise, faulty implementation of the electoral procedure should be avoided.

    Polling officers should not report late for electoral duty. When polling materials do not arrive on time, when card readers are consistently down, when materials meant for a different unit are mistakenly taken to another unit, whenever any aspect of the process is compromised, the electorate will develop negative thoughts. Therefore, INEC should get its logistics right. The electoral law should not be set aside at any stage of the process.

    In Edo, elections in riverine areas are often problematic. In 2012, the challenge stared the electoral agency in the face. A boat was hired to convey sensitive materials. The helmsman was drunk. It was akin to hiring a dumb and deaf to drive a car. The consequence was fatal. The mistake should not be repeated.

    The image of Nigeria has been dented by poorly conducted polls, although the country favours a semblance of political stability. The danger is that in some states, districts, constituencies and local governments, attainment of political power is not premised on people’s choice.

    There is also an allegation that political parties have infiltrated the ranks of observers and monitors, with partisan members of the civil society groups turning in subjective reports on elections.

    Trust is damaged. The umpire does not trust that candidates and political leaders will obey rules and regulations. The political class does not believe that the commission will be neutral all the times and as it should be. Politicians see politics, not as a vocation, but an occupation of high economic value. To them, there must be enormous returns on investment. Winning by all means and at all costs is the baseline.

    INEC officers and ad hoc staff should resist political influence that may tempt them to indulge in collaborative malpractices.  Rigging is very difficult. It can only be accomplished through a curious team work, and motivated by bribe.

    Tales of inconclusive elections are boring. It is an agonising experience as the electoral timeframe is reviewed and extended.

    Also, when an election is at half, it extends the period of panic and bitterness. It may underscores incompetence on the part of handlers. It may also mean that there is an impediment to successful outcome. It increases the electoral expenditure on the part of INEC. It elongates the suspicion, nightmare and palpable anxiety. It does not show that previous lessons were learnt.

    But, these can only be averted when all participants play by the rules and leave no stone unturned, even under the charge atmosphere.

     

     

  • Odo-oba-Ogbomoso needs General Hospital

    Odo-oba-Ogbomoso needs General Hospital

    Adelani Olawuyi

     

    SIR: In 1980, the government of the late Cicero, Uncle Bola Ige started the construction of a General Hospital in Odo-oba, Ogo-Oluwa Local Government Area of Oyo State. It didn’t go beyond foundation till 2010 when the government of Otunba Adebayo Alao -Akala converted it to a Primary Health Centre (PHC).

    Forty years after its foundation was laid, the proposed hospital still remains a Primary Health Centre. It is bad!

    Odooba community population is surging by day. It is the most densely populated in Ogo-Oluwa LGA. It is the seat of Ogo-Oluwa West Local Council Development Area. Its market is about the largest farm produce market in Nigeria. The market is patronized on daily basis by people from all the states in the federation including Federal Capital Territory, Abuja and the neighboring countries of Togo, Benin, Cameroon, Niger, and Chad etc.

    Unarguably it is the rendezvous for people from Oriire, Ogbomoso South/North and Atiba Local Government Areas. By World Health organization’s (WHO) standards, we believe that the town is qualified for a General Hospital with resident doctors and other medical staff.

    Therefore, we implore the dynamic administration of Engineer Oluseyi Abiodun Makinde to construct and equip a general hospital for us as part of our own dividends of democracy.

    • Adelani Olawuyi,

     Odooba – Ogbomoso, Oyo State.