The Nation Newspaper

Category: Commentaries

  • Idiocy at 10, Downing Street

    Idiocy at 10, Downing Street

    The last time Yoruba Nation agitations boiled over — April 13 — it was sheer idiocy at Ibadan. Some deluded zealots tried to seize the Oyo State Secretariat and precincts, to plant their flag — Democratic Republic of Yoruba (DRY)!

    That idiocy was so manifest every name attached to the movement fled so fast their heels virtually hit the back of their heads, as they bolted clear of that comical rabble!

    Eminent historian, Prof. Banji  Akintoye, philosopher-in-chief on the Yoruba Nation project, scrambled to disown the Ibadan gambit, putting the blame on a radical “woman”, who later was identified as Dupe Onitiri. 

    Sunday Igboho, hitherto the Yoruba Nation battling ram, fresh but much subdued from a stint in Benin Republic jail houses, screamed to the roof top he knew nothing about it.  So did Gani Adams, the “Are Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland”.  He too swore he had nothing to do with the rabble’s comic treason.

    Those 18 suspects are facing charges now, trying to prove their innocence.  So, one would have thought that was one idiocy too many for a year.  Not so!

    Sunday Igboho, always assailed by his Fulani ghosts, just lived the latest DRY idiocy by going international.  He went to 10, Downing Street, London, official residence of the British Prime Minister, to present a petition for the British to sanction the carving of DRY from Nigeria!  What a dry joke!

    Wasn’t that sweet, though!  So, Britain, a former colonial master, is Igboho and co’s neo-Oduduwa, to sire a neo-Yoruba nation!  What thunderous contradiction!  Britain, whose colonization destroyed the Yoruba — and other cultures pre-Nigeria — for own greedy and cynical causes, is Igboho’s new messiah!

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    Nothing portrays the Igboho starkness in all of these more than a group picture in front of 10, Downing Street. Even if the puppet is incapable of understanding the full ramifications of his actions, what of the puppeteers juggling him?

    For the umpteenth time, Igboho dropped Prof. Akintoye’s name for his London escapade.  But the good professor is yet to comment on it all.  Well, it’s early days yet.

    But just as well, the British government had played down the comic drama.  The British High Commissioner in Nigeria suggested his country was at best a humouring the petitioners.  “The UK government,” he was reported to have declared, “does not concern itself with petitions concerning the sovereign affairs of another country.” 

    But doesn’t that go without saying? Pray, what might Britain’s business be with Nigeria, a sovereign state and its internal affairs?

    That aside: under what Yoruba mandate do these folks go to these annoying extents?  So okay, their lobby want a “Yoruba Nation” — dreams are free.  Others don’t want any of that — no crime. 

    But at what formal Yoruba assembly were these blokes mandated to go on these campaigns?  That’s the deepest idiocy of it all.

  • Now that NNPCL is out of the radar

    Now that NNPCL is out of the radar

    By James Odemu Brigidi

    The growing concerns surrounding fuel supply and prices in Nigeria have ignited a fierce conversation about accountability in the oil and gas sector. For many Nigerians, it seems like the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has become a convenient scapegoat for various economic challenges, particularly the recent bout of scarcity and resultant spike in fuel prices.

     However, this narrative overlooks critical factors influencing fuel availability and pricing, particularly the failure of private players like Dangote Refinery to meet operational promises.

    It has to be established from the get go, that NNPCL has now divested itself of the role of being the sole off taker of petroleum products, especially Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) more popularly known as petrol from Dangote Refinery.  With the recent approval by the government for all private marketers to buy directly from Dangote Refinery, we can correctly now say NNPCL is out of the radar as a sole supplier. It is in this regard that the conversation must shift from the previous focus to reflect the current situation of things.

    Firstly, it’s essential to understand the dynamics of fuel pricing in Nigeria, which is intricately woven into the nation’s economic fabric. The recent price hike has left many citizens outraged, prompting questions about who is truly responsible. For years, NNPC was often wrongly criticized for its seemingly ‘inefficiencies and lack of transparency’, leading many to mistakenly believe that the national oil company is solely accountable for fuel shortages and price fluctuations. However, the landscape has changed.

    We now have one new major player in the oil supply chain in Nigeria — the Dangote Refinery, a prominent private sector entity expected to significantly contribute to the nation’s fuel supply. With ambitious plans to refine crude oil and bolster local production, Dangote’s entry into the market was greeted with enthusiasm. Expectations were set high, with the refinery projected to handle about 650,000 barrels per day, amongst which a substantial quantity was anticipated to be made available to Nigerian consumers at a reduced cost. However, reality has shown a different picture.

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     Many Nigerians think that the Dangote Refinery is the messiah or saviour, no please. He is first and foremost a business man who will not give us PMS for free.

    We read about an agreement between NNPCL and Dangote Refinery to the effect that NNPCL will be the off taker for Dangote’s product to the tune of 25 million litres a day, and that was to start from September 15. However, information available shows that till date, the NNPCL has not been able to get anything more than 7 million litres a day, leaving a whooping shortfall of 17 million litres daily. Without being told, that’s a recipe for crisis. Marketers that were supposed to link up with NNPCL to receive whatever they had deposited for, could not get the product with the huge shortfall. And so, an artificial scarcity surfaced immediately.

    When the pump price jumped in about three  occasions from N468 to N898, people thought NNPCL was responsible as the sole off taker. Today, without NNPCL in the radar, Dangote is rolling out at N977 per liter. So, will a marketer go to Dangote Refinery and buy for N977 and sell the same for N700? Who does that?  Therefore, what is happening has nothing to do with the NNPCL.

    We must, therefore, come to terms with the fact that since commencing operations, Dangote Refinery has struggled to meet its supply agreements. The inability to deliver the promised volume of 25 million liters of fuel a day to the NNPCL as contained in the agreement earlier referenced had critical ramifications for the market, as a reliable supply is fundamental for stabilizing prices and ensuring adequate fuel availability. A reduction in supply directly contributes to higher prices, as demand remains consistent despite the lag in delivery.

    Many intelligent stakeholders in the sector have pointed to Dangote’s inability to fulfill the supply contracts as a key factor behind the recent price hikes. The anticipation surrounding the refinery and its promise to improve fuel distribution has, unfortunately, led to disappointment. When a significant supplier fails to meet its quota, market prices rise, and consumers are left grappling with the consequences. It is increasingly clear that the responsibility for the current spike in fuel prices and the scarcity being experienced must extend beyond the NNPCL and include scrutiny of Dangote’s operational capabilities.

    Moreover, it is crucial to address the underlying costs associated with fuel production. The conversation about fuel pricing in Nigeria must be transparent regarding the actual cost of refining, transportation, and distribution. For Dangote and other suppliers, the decision to raise prices is often driven by production costs, local and international market fluctuations, and their margin expectations. Businessmen, even those in positions of influence like Aliko Dangote, who runs one of Africa’s largest conglomerates, must navigate the tricky balance between ensuring profitability and serving the local market’s needs. This reality often leads to difficult decisions that may not be favourable for consumers.

    It is also worth mentioning that, as a businessman, Dangote cannot be expected to behave like a benevolent figure funding the nation’s fuel needs. He operates within the parameters of profitability, competition, and corporate responsibility. His obligation is to ensure that his refinery runs efficiently and serves its stakeholders, which in theory includes Nigerian consumers. However, it is unrealistic to expect any private entity to operate solely as a charitable organization.

    Acknowledgment of this fact is critical to understanding the broader dynamics at play in the Nigerian fuel market.

    In light of these realities, it becomes essential to challenge the prevailing narrative that conveniently places blame on the NNPCL for rising fuel prices. Instead, a more nuanced analysis is warranted — one that examines the roles and responsibilities of private players like Dangote Refinery and acknowledges the complexity of the market’s economic conditions.

    Furthermore, there is an urgent need for the government demand from private players like Dangote Refinery to establish a framework that promotes transparency within the industry. This entails not only determining the cost of producing fuel but also ensuring accountability in operational deliveries. This approach would empower consumers with the information necessary to hold stakeholders accountable for their actions, thus fostering a healthier market environment.

    As a nation, Nigeria can significantly benefit from a reevaluation of its oil supply chain dynamics. With private players like Dangote Refinery struggling to meet expectations, it is crucial to assess the conditions that inhibit their operational efficacy. To alleviate the burden of fuel price hikes, the government must engage in meaningful dialogue with these businesses and ensure that they are positioned to succeed.

    In conclusion, while NNPCL has historically faced its share of criticism, blaming it solely for the current fuel price increases in Nigeria oversimplifies a complex issue. The failure of the Dangote Refinery to meet its commitments — alongside the realities of operational costs and market demands — reveal that the answers are more multifaceted than the prevailing narrative may suggest. Moving forward, it is the responsibility of both state-owned and private entities to strengthen collaboration and transparency that benefits all stakeholders in the fuel supply chain. Only then can Nigerians hope to see a more stable fuel economy that reflects both market realities and their expectations for fair pricing.

    •Brigidi, an Energy and Security Expert, writes from Abuja.

  • Ogun dry port: Yet another game changer in Nigeria’s industrial capital

    Ogun dry port: Yet another game changer in Nigeria’s industrial capital

    By Kayode Akinmade

    The Ogun State governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, is apparently one politician unmoved by the antics of mischief makers. While getting panned by hack and hired writers for “building no roads”, he built over 600km of roads in just four years. The critics travelled on the Sagamu-Abeokuta road and the Mojoda-Epe-Ijebu Ode road, among many others, saw the various housing estates he built—Kobape, Sagamu, Abeokuta, etc—and marveled at the Gateway International Airport, Nigeria’s biggest cargo airport, yet they hid under the Federal Government’s (FG) decades-long neglect of its roads in the Gateway State to disparage the governor’s good works. But when the people’s governor reinvented diplomacy and got Abuja to hand over the most strategic federal roads to his government, bringing succour to a longsuffering populace, they became shell-shocked. Among others, the Sagamu-Ore Benin expressway and the Abeokuta-Ifo-Ota-Lagos expressway are witnessing massive attention, as is the federal road leading to the FG’s Laderin Train Station in Abeokuta. On October 11, Governor Abiodun performed the ground-breaking ceremony for the development of an inland dry port at Papalanto/ Itori In Ewekoro. From roads to airports, and from dry ports to free trade zones, the Ogun State helmsman is turning the Gateway State into a massive construction site.

    Normally, a port is by the sea. But it can be congested, making cargo clearance quite inefficient. That is why dry ports or inland container depots are set up. The dry port is a transportation hub that enables the efficient movement of cargo by rail, road, or sea. It is an alternative route for cargo movement which facilitates trade and promotes economic development in inland regions. Dry ports function like normal seaports, with cargo handling and storage facilities, warehousing and logistics services and customs clearance and inspection services at the heart of their operations. Indeed, cargo tend to be cleared faster at dry ports. In Nigeria, you find dry ports in big cities such as Abuja, Port Harcourt, Kano, Jos, Maiduguri and Ibadan. But the best is about to be sited in Papalanto/Itori.

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    Already, the first African Quality Assurance Centre has been cited in Ogun State.  Given Governor Abiodun’s economic and industrial growth agenda, an agenda that takes due cognizance of the roles shipping services play in global trade and commerce, it is no wonder that the building of the Gateway Inland Dry Port (GIDP) has been flagged off to complement the strategic transport infrastructure across the state. As the GIDP or ‘Dry Port City’ (DPC), modeled after the extremely vast airport city that places the Gateway International Airport amid a city with emerging industrial dynamics, comes on stream, it will be accompanied by residences, logistics infrastructure, complimentary commercial and industrial developments and new multi-modal transportation infrastructure. The GIDP and DPC will have a railway siding area, container freight station and container depot area, warehouses and bonded warehouses, mineral yard, truck parking, specialized industrial zone, supporting facilities and utilities, internal road network and green areas. The objective it to sustain Ogun State’s rapid industrial growth, addressing increased urbanization as well as supporting national efforts to ease the congestion at Apapa/Tin Can ports, alleviating traffic bottle necks and reducing the waiting time for cargo handling and storage experienced by industry.

    Speaking at the ground-breaking ceremony for the development of the inland dry port, Governor Abiodun noted Ogun State’s status as Nigeria’s Industrial Capital with over 6,000 industries. As he noted, having nurtured the goal of providing focused and qualitative governance, providing the required infrastructure and an enabling environment for public private sector partnership that is fundamental to economic growth and individual prosperity of Ogun people, he established the Ministry of Transportation and rolled out a State Transport Masterplan to define priorities. The Masterplan, he said, identified the need to build a seaport and a dry port, together with investment in rail transport, among others. And so the dry port sitting on 600 hectares (Phase 1) came on stream.

    He said: “Today history is being made by this ground breaking of the Gateway Dry Port/ inland container Terminal. This facility is a key enabler of industrial activity and manufacturing in Ogun state .It will on completion will increase the ranking of our state on the ease of doing business inde.  Because of the rail line right here, containers destined for Ogun can be destined CIF Kajola and on arrival loaded on the train, and transported to Shederu Kajola. Our manufacturers will be able to bring in their raw materials without having to go through the hassle of going to Lagos Tin can or Apapa Ports to clear and transport whilst dealing with the attendant demurrage cost that add to their overall cost for production. Ditto for their exports as well. Finished goods can be stuffed into containers and exported from here. This initiative will definitely not just reduce the congestion at both Lagos Tin Can and Apapa ports but will make both ports more efficient . Furthermore this will reduce the vehicular trailer traffic on our roads thus reducing the wear and tear and early maintenance on roads leading in and out of Lagos. With the Gateway Inland Dry Port, we are solidifying our position as the foremost logistics and industrial hub in the country, bringing unparalleled advantages to businesses  operating here.”

    Also speaking on the occasion, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, declared that the Gateway Inland Dry Port will be a model for existing and prospective inland dry ports in Nigeria. As Oyetola noted, the government’s intention is to de-congest the premier seaport in Apapa, boost the economy with seamless movement of goods, and generate both direct and indirect employment opportunities for Nigerians through cargo warehousing and logistics. His words: “Today, as we launch this initiative, we acknowledge the vast economic potential of this Inland Dry Port. This project is not merely about building infrastructure but about laying the foundation for a key logistics hub that will facilitate the movement of goods across Nigeria, creating over 5,000 direct jobs, 15,000 indirect jobs and stimulating local businesses.”

    Significantly, the GIDP and DPC are strategically positioned at the intersection of the Lagos to Ibadan Standard Gauge Railway and the proposed East-West Railway Corridor connecting Lagos to the east via Kajola. The site is also connected to the national highway network being accessible via the Lagos – Abeokuta Highway and the Sagamu to Benin and Sagamu to Lagos highways via the Papalanto to Sagamu Interchange road.

    With the agro cargo airport,  aggressive road construction and dry port, Ogun is bound to reap great multiplier effects as a nerve center of the Nigerian economy. Great times are here in Dapo Abiodun’s Ogun State.

    •Akinmade is Special Adviser on Media and Strategy to Governor Dapo Abiodun.

  • Tunji-Ojo, Correctional Service and global standard

    Tunji-Ojo, Correctional Service and global standard

    By Femi Salako

    Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo,Minister for Interior has strongly refuted claims of complacency and highlighted significant strides made under his leadership to reform and modernize the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS). Since assuming office in 2023, the Minister has demonstrated a clear commitment to transforming the system in line with global best practices, ensuring improved conditions for both inmates and correctional personnel.

    One of the Minister’s first actions was the release of 4,086 inmates, a move aimed at decongesting the overburdened correctional centres. This initiative was made possible through a fund of N585 million raised via corporate social responsibility efforts, providing options of fines and compensations for minor offenders. This pragmatic step not only reduced the inmate population but also eased the strain on resources, contributing to more humane conditions for those remaining in custody.

    Recognizing the need for better living standards within correctional centres, the government has increased the daily feeding allowance for inmates to N1,125, ensuring that their nutritional needs are adequately met. In addition to this, there has been a widespread renovation and modernization of correctional facilities, with the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Kuje, FCT, standing as a prime example. Renovated cells now feature improved conveniences, beds, and access to clean water, in accordance with the United Nations’ Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Offenders (also known as the Mandela Rules).

    These upgrades are part of a broader effort to create a more humane environment that supports the reformation and rehabilitation of inmates, aligning Nigeria’s correctional system with international standards.

    A major highlight of the Minister’s tenure has been the introduction of an automated correctional system aimed at enhancing security and streamlining inmate management. The implementation of the Correctional Information Management System (CIMS) has transformed the documentation process, ensuring that every inmate is properly tracked and that no one can be detained without a valid warrant from a competent court. This system, integrated with dynamic security measures, has boosted surveillance and offender identification, creating a more secure environment within the custodial centres.

    The Honourable Minister has also championed initiatives that give inmates the opportunity to better themselves during their time in custody. Through a collaboration with the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), inmates can now pursue formal education, with some even studying at the doctoral level. Additionally, inmates are encouraged to acquire vocational skills, improving their chances of successful reintegration into society upon release.

    Medical services within the correctional centres have also been upgraded, with centres now able to offer basic healthcare services. For more complex medical cases, inmates are referred to government hospitals, ensuring their health needs are adequately addressed.

    In parallel with improvements for inmates, the welfare of correctional personnel has received substantial attention. The Minister has worked to ensure that their salaries reflect current economic realities, and that promotions occur promptly. Furthermore, correctional officers have benefited from regular training and retraining programs, equipping them with the skills to perform their duties in line with global standards. Personnel have been given opportunities to attend courses, seminars, and conferences both locally and internationally, fostering a more professional workforce.

    The Honourable Minister’s dedication to creating a functional, efficient, and humane correctional service has not gone unnoticed. In recognition of his efforts, he was named Public Service Person of the Year 2023 by Leadership Newspaper and has received numerous other awards from national tabloids. His reforms, aimed at aligning Nigeria’s correctional system with international norms, have earned him widespread praise.

    The Ministry of Interior remains committed to ensuring that Nigeria’s correctional services continue to improve, providing humane conditions for inmates while fostering rehabilitation and reintegration. The public is urged to disregard any reports of complacency, as the ongoing reforms speak for themselves. Under the Honourable Minister’s leadership, Nigeria is on the path to having a correctional service that can be a model for the rest of Africa and the world. The Minister’s actions are fully in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, reflecting a government dedicated to transparency, reform, and improved governance.

    • Salako is media consultant

  • Bauchi’s neglect of education and health

    Bauchi’s neglect of education and health

    Sir: Bauchi State is facing a serious decline in both the education and health sectors. Having experienced three different administrations, it is clear that the current government is not prioritizing these essential areas for development.

    Under Malam Isa Yuguda’s leadership, the state made significant strides in healthcare by sponsoring 40 students to study medicine abroad, with the expectation that they would return to serve the state. One of the beneficiaries, Dr. Usman Musa Sulaiman, now works at Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Teaching Hospital. However, the current administration has failed to sponsor even a single student to study medicine, whether abroad or within Nigeria.

    Similarly, Barrister M.A. Abubakar’s administration also contributed to health education by sponsoring Bauchi indigenes to study at institutions such as Garu Institute College of Medical Technology, Malikiya College of Medical Technology, and College of Health Technology in Ningi. Yet again, the current administration has not provided such opportunities.

    Reports show that Bauchi State has fewer than 20 medical doctors, and no steps have been taken by the government to resolve this critical shortage. This is a major issue that requires immediate attention.

    The education sector has also been neglected. Before this administration came on board, Bauchi’s educational system was rated high, but that has now dropped. Schools across the state lack proper infrastructure, with many classrooms in poor condition, lacking benches; in all, the overall learning environment is unconducive. Previous governments supplied exercise books to school children in both primary and secondary schools, but this administration has not continued this practice.

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    Bauchi State has the highest number of out-of-school children in northern Nigeria, yet the government has done little to address this crisis. Instead, it has focused on projects like building flyovers, which many see as unnecessary.

    While infrastructure development is important, the priority should be on roads that are truly needed such as those in rural areas like Lush and surrounding villages.

    The current administration’s failure to address the pressing issues in the health and education sectors is a missed opportunity. These are the foundations of a prosperous future, and without serious intervention, Bauchi State’s development will remain stagnant.

    •Yasir Shehu Adam (Danliman),Bauchi.

  • Peter Fregene: How not to treat a hero

    Peter Fregene: How not to treat a hero

    Sir: Being patriotic or loyal to Nigeria is a commitment all unwavering and obedient Nigerians must abide by. Promoting and defending Nigeria’s name/integrity in whatever capacity – politics, education, sports, entertainment or any profession – is a task that must be done by all Nigerians.

    Prior to this present age, Nigerians complied with the rules and regulations scrupulously and thoroughly until now when today’s generation, widely known as Gen Z, care less about Nigeria or whatever associates with the country.

    In times past, patriotic Nigerians knew, without being told or commanded, that it was their obligation to stand at attention – irrespective of where they found themselves – whenever the national anthem was being sung. Public property and national monuments were guarded and protected by Nigerians against vandalism. War against indiscipline was jointly fought by almost all Nigerians years back. Majority of Nigerians, apart from the few, were sincere in paying taxes for the development of the country was their concern. But it’s unfortunate that the faithfulness to Nigeria is hardly found among the youths In this day and age.

    Why do this day’s youths think it unnecessary to put their lives on the line to defend their county unlike those in the past who did not only defend the country, but also stuck their neck out to lay their lives for Nigeria? The reason is not far-fetched. The inhuman treatments most of those who, in bygone days, had served Nigeria diligently get at their old age, during the time that their energies have already been exhausted, may be one of the reasons today’s youths place their personal interests above country’s agenda.

    In fairness to many Nigerians who have lost interest in upholding Nigeria’s honour and glory, it’s unlikely to have dedicated nationals in a society where merit is scarcely rewarded. It’s few and far between to have devoted countrymen in a society where reality show on television – the show scholars tag as a ‘display of immortality’ – is more rewarding than defending Nigeria’s unity. How do we expect to have dedicated Nigerians in a country where the winners – most of who could barely recite national anthem – of reality show were the ones rewarded with millions of naira and brand new SUV cars while those who had served the country with their sweat and blood were abandoned and live in abject poverty, most especially in their old age?

    The case of Peter Fregene, a former Green Eagles goalkeeper, who passed away few days ago, is a perfect example of the unkind and inhuman treatments some dedicated Nigerians get from the country of their birth after long years of service to the same country. Undoubtedly, nobody expected a man of Fregene’s calibre to be in the unfavourable condition the ex-Green Eagles star found himself at the last stage of his life but unluckily, this is what many experience almost every day.

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    Death is, of course, inevitable and it visits anyone anytime irrespective of one’s age. But one thing no one prays to happen to him is to go through pain before death knocks on the door. It’s disheartening to witness the way the ex-goalkeeper, Fregene, underwent agony while he was confined to bed before he gave up the ghost. Though help eventually came after many supplications, it was too late to rescue him. Had there been quick intervention, perhaps Fregene would have lived.

    Peter Fregene is gone and there is nothing anyone can do to bring him back to life. But I believe there are lots the government can do to guard against similar occurrences in the future if the country still expects patriotism and loyalty from Nigerians.

    Instead of waiting to seek financial assistance for our athletes, educationists, artistes and others, the government can set up a simple welfare scheme for active and retired shining examples to take good care of them during the time that they need the country most. With that, today’s youths will be encouraged to use their talents for the upliftment of Nigeria when they’re sure the country will not abandon them in their time of need.

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

  • Rivers: Who is afraid of the judicial commission?

    Rivers: Who is afraid of the judicial commission?

    Sir: “I have told our lawyers to set aside those rubbish, that is rubbish, complete rubbish, who takes that … enquiry what … it is a waste of resources”. That was Barrister Nyesom Wike, reacting on national television, to the setting up of a Judicial Commission of Inquiry by Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State.

    Nyesom Wike, a former governor of Rivers State, is current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory in President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

    Governor Fubara had inaugurated a Judicial Commission of Inquiry to investigate the arson, killings and destruction of property following the conduct of the last local government council elections in the state.

    The reason Nyesom Wike gave for publicly describing the Judicial Commission as “complete rubbish” was that Governor Fubara had publicly accused his (Fubara’s) political opponents of the shooting, killings and burning of the council offices.

    Nyesom Wike said “Having known them (the perpetrators), what are you setting up a panel of inquiry … all you need to tell police, arrest them, charge them for arson… what is the basis of Judicial Panel of Inquiry … it is a waste of resources”.

    It is on record that Nyesom Wike as governor of Rivers State (2015-2023) set up at least four judicial commissions:

    1. Panel of Inquiry to investigate alleged N36 billion spent by the Rotimi Amaechi’s administration on the manufacturing of auto-destruct syringes. (November 2018).

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    2. Judicial Commission of Inquiry to investigate the circumstances that led to the collapse of a seven-storey building at Woji Road in New GRA, Port Harcourt. (December 2018).

    3. Judicial Commission of Inquiry to investigate the brutality and human rights abuses perpetrated by the disbanded Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) in Rivers. (October 2020).

    4. Judicial Commission of Inquiry to probe the financial dealings of the immediate past administration of Governor Rotimi Amaechi. (October 2015).

    In all these cases, Nyesom Wike knew the alleged culprits, yet he did not ask the police to arrest them, he set up judicial commissions to investigate them.

    It was not until June 2022 that Governor Wike attempted to arrest Rotimi Amaechi and Co. That was after the Commission of Inquiry had submitted its report and after Amaechi had failed at the Supreme Court to stop the panel from investigating him.

     As a lawyer and life bencher, Nyesom Wike needs no schooling on the difference between a court of law and a judicial commission.  The Supreme Court held in Rotimi Amaechi’s Appeal that: “A Commission of Inquiry under the Commission of Inquiry Law is a fact-finding body set up by the executive arm of government, to investigate the state of affairs in the state generally or in particular areas … issue of urgent public importance for the public welfare, peace and security.

    “The purpose of the investigation is to find out the facts or gather facts on the subject matter of inquiry. In so doing, it is not trying any person for the commission of any misconduct or crime”.

    Governor Fubara’s interest, therefore, goes beyond the arrest and trial of the perpetrators in a trial court. He wants the Judicial Panel to determine the underlying causes of the violence; evaluate the extent of damage to property, human lives and financial losses; examine the motive; assess the effectiveness of security agencies; investigate the roles of individuals and groups; advise on adequate compensation for victims and measures to prevent future occurrences.

    This is beyond the scope of a trial court.

    Why has it become for Wike a “complete rubbish” and “a waste of resources”?

    Why does Wike want the perpetrators to be arrested and taken to court directly?

    Wike is known to have instituted more Judicial panels than any of his predecessors. The threat to ask his lawyers to ‘set aside’ Governor Fubara’s judiciary panel is yet another of his classic displays of contradictions, deceits and paradoxes.

    Nyesom Wike’s notoriety for self-contradictions and capitulation has made him into a national caricature and the butt of the jokes in many online comical skits. His unashamed somersaults are unprecedented.

    The Judicial Commission of Inquiry set up by Governor Siminalayi Fubara must go on. It must get to the root causes of the violence that attended the last local government council elections.

    •Sotonye Ijuye-Dagogo,Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

  • Banditry and name-calling

    Banditry and name-calling

    Residents of the North are having a huge challenge dealing with banditry that has hobbled  that region of this country for more than a decade. But leaders of the region are not making tackling the challenge any easier with their seeming penchant for finger-pointing and mutual accusations of links with bandits. It is high time government at the centre thoroughly looked into these accusations and ascertain if there is any validity to them; and if there isn’t, call out phony accusers.

    A group, last week, plied a defence of Senator Shehu Buba against allegations of sponsoring banditry and kidnappings in Bauchi State. The Bauchi government had recently accused Buba of abetting banditry activities in the state and petitioned the Presidency about his alleged involvement in the menace. But the group named Coalition of Civil Societies Networks (CCSN) described allegations against the lawmaker, who represents Bauchi South in the red chamber and chairs the Senate Committee on Security and Intelligence, as baseless. At a press briefing in Abuja, CCSN spokesman Jabir Aminu said the allegations were not only false but calculated to detract from the political capital that Buba had acquired among Bauchi people. He alleged that enemies of the All Progressives Congress (APC) lawmaker were jittery of his growing popularity ahead of the 2027 governorship elections in the state and were making efforts to undermine him.

    What you see in Bauchi is nothing compared with Zamfara State where Governor Dauda Lawal and his predecessor, now Defence Minister of State Bello Matawalle, have been trading accusations of complicity in banditry activities bedevilling the state. Lawal has repeatedly alleged that Matawalle had links with bandits with whom he negotiated when he was governor, and that he facilitated their criminal exploits. In a recent television interview, he dared Matawalle to resign his job as minister and face the allegations. He later said through an aide that he had reported the minister to President Bola Tnubu and National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu.

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    But the minister denied the charge and counter-accused Lawal of being the patron saint of bandits posturing as fighting the menace they constitute. Also speaking on national television, he argued that he wasn’t the only governor during his time who negotiated with bandits. “The then governors of Niger and Sokoto States did the same. Why only me (being accused of links with bandits)? Because it is Zamfara,” he said as he challenged the present governor to swear on the Holy Quran as he already had done. “I challenged all the politicians, including General Ali Gusau and Dauda Lawal, to do the same. None of them could take the oath, and if they don’t take the oath, that means they are part of it,”  he added.

    There is need for the Presidency to probe these counter-claims and take follow-up measures as may be necessary.

  • Suicide and pesticide misuse in Nigeria

    Suicide and pesticide misuse in Nigeria

    SIR: Suicide is a highly complex phenomenon with dire consequences for families, communities, and countries. Every year, approximately 726,000 people take their own lives globally, making it one of the leading causes of death, particularly among young people. It is the third leading cause of death among individuals aged 15–29. Disturbingly, around 73% of global suicides occur in low- and middle-income countries, including Nigeria. The reasons for suicide are multifaceted, influenced by social, cultural, biological, psychological, and environmental factors present throughout life.

    Nigeria with a population of over 200 million is one of the epicentres of suicide in the world with a suicide estimate of 17.3 per 100 000, which is higher than the global (10.5 per 100 000) and Africa (12.0 per 100 000) estimates. According to global statistics, since 2012 there has been an increase in suicide in the country. Moreover, Nigeria, currently, has been reporting the highest number of depression cases in Africa, according to WHO.

    The alarming rise in suicide rates in Nigeria has drawn attention to a troubling factor: the easy access to lethal pesticides. As these chemicals are readily available in local markets, their misuse as a means of self-harm has become a public health crisis that demands urgent regulatory intervention. Pesticides are designed to kill pests but pose significant risks to human health. Acute exposure leads to immediate symptoms such as nausea and dizziness and can even result in death. Chronic exposure has been linked to severe health issues, including cancers, reproductive challenges, endocrine disruptions and neurological disorders. Many Nigerians are unwittingly exposing themselves and their families to these dangers through improper use and storage of pesticides.

    The misuse of pesticides has become increasingly common; many individuals facing mental health crises turn to these chemicals as a means of escape, unaware of the irreversible consequences they entail. Moreover, recovery from pesticide poisoning is notoriously difficult. Studies show that individuals who attempt suicide-using pesticides often have lower survival rates compared to those who use less toxic means.

    To effectively tackle the issue of pesticide-related suicides in Nigeria, a multifaceted approach is essential. First, there should be stricter regulation on pesticide sales – as at today, anyone – adult or child, sane or insane, trained or unskilled, as well as friends or foes have access to pesticides. This includes implementing licensing requirements for harmful industrial and farm chemicals and enhancing monitoring and regulation of pesticide sales to prevent misuse.

    The strict enforcement of NAFDAC’s pesticide regulations is essential. Authorities in governments must ensure that agrochemical dealers and markets comply with listing and permit requirements, and the open sale of dangerous chemicals in markets and communities must be stopped. Promoting safer pest control alternatives such as use of neem leaves, neem oil, diatomaceous earth, chili-pepper barriers and airtight containers, drying of grains and seeds, using hermetic storage can help reduce reliance on toxic pesticides, offering both farmers and households safer ways to manage pests, and storing seeds/grains should be encouraged. Public awareness campaigns are also crucial in educating the population about the risks of pesticide misuse and providing information on available mental health resources. 

    Public awareness campaigns are also crucial. These campaigns should aim to educate communities about mental health issues and provide information on where to seek help. Additionally, raising awareness about the dangers of pesticide misuse and promoting safer alternatives can significantly contribute to prevention efforts.

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    Integrating mental health services into primary healthcare systems is another key recommendation. This integration will ensure easier access to mental health care for those in need. Furthermore, training healthcare workers to recognize warning signs and provide appropriate support is essential for effective intervention.

    Community support programs should be established to foster open discussions about mental health. Creating support networks for individuals facing economic hardships or mental health challenges can provide much-needed assistance and reduce feelings of isolation.

    Improving research and data collection on suicide rates and methods used in Nigeria is critical for developing effective intervention strategies. Conducting studies on the effectiveness of various prevention strategies will help inform future actions and policies.

    Finally, while pesticides may have been considered to play a role in modern large-scale industrial agriculture, a country like Nigeria where over 60% of food produced are done by a large number of small-scale farmers, their reliance on toxic chemicals should be discouraged (as more safer organic preservatives exist.  The open sale of these toxic pesticides must be stopped as they poses significant dangers. By prioritizing regulation and promoting safer alternatives alongside robust mental health strategies, we can protect vulnerable populations from unnecessary harm and address the rising tide of suicide in our communities.

    • Donald Ikenna Ofoegbu, <ikennadonald@gmail.com>
  • PDP’s faltering front

    PDP’s faltering front

    SIR: The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) must be licking its lips at the incipient crisis festering within the opposition People’s Democratic Party(PDP). Since the PDP lost the 2015 general election, the party has generally struggled to contain the roiling discontent within its ranks, with only the greedy self-service of politicians and daydreams of power keeping the party together. But just as a running stomach inevitably sends one to the outhouse, it is only a matter of time before it all comes apart for the self-proclaimed largest party in Africa, one which once held Nigeria to ransom for 16 years, even prophesying a 60-year stay in power.

    Though one can never discount the machinations of the APC, the afflictions of the PDP appear to be home-cooked, baked in the oven that the Wadata Plaza has become since the crown slipped from its head eight years ago, taking with it the soul of the party.

    A few days ago, the party’s National Working Committee suspended its National Chairman, Umar Damagum, and National Secretary, Samuel Anyanwu, from the party for alleged disloyalty to the party. This was shortly after another faction within the party purportedly suspended the National Legal Adviser, Kamaldeen Ajibade, and National Publicity Secretary,Debo Ologunagba.

    While the uninitiated may think 2027 is three years away, those who make their  trade in Nigeria’s political trenches would explain with intense urgency that 2027 is close, and breathing down the necks of political parties in Nigeria, especially the PDP.

    Since it was unceremoniously shunted into the arena of opposition politics, the PDP has struggled badly on all levels. Apart from failing to offer Nigerians serious alternatives since losing power in 2015, the party has been largely incoherent in espousing the ideals of a virile opposition party. This has come as no surprise though because once the unthinkable happened to it in 2015, it was predicted that a party that had so misused and abused power would struggle to know what to do with itself once removed from power.

    The PDP’s disastrous courtship of self-destruction has been hastened by the presence in the party of many political cowbirds who are content to lay their eggs in any available nest, leaving others to feed the dangers they leave behind.

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    The most prominent of these political cowbirds would be Nyesom Wike, former Rivers State governor, and the current minister of the Federal Capital Territory. As the days when he ruled Rivers State with an iron fist hurtled to a close, he openly defied the PDP by working with and supporting President Bola Tinubu as he sought to become Nigeria’s president under the APC.

    His open defiance of the PDP and its failure to discipline him has portrayed the party as weak. In a country where the ruling party always manages to somehow fail, a weak opposition is the last thing Nigerians need.

    Shame should swell the plates of the PDP that is if it has any left in stock at the Wadata Plaza. Its failure to do anything of note for Nigerians was what opened the door to the pack of wolves. It has since managed to fail to test the APC sufficiently as an opposition.

    Nigerians will always remember their betrayers and those who betrayed them to their betrayers.

    • Ike Willie-Nwobu, Ikewilly9@gmail.com