The Nation Newspaper

Category: Commentaries

  • Need for timely implementation of policies

    Need for timely implementation of policies

    • By Kenechukwu Aguolu

    Sir: The speech by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the #EndBadGovernance protest has generated a lot of mixed feelings and reactions, as expected. Some people believe that the speech lacked empathy, some feel that it did not address the demands of the protesters, while others are indifferent. The major disappointment for many is that the president did not announce a reduction in the price of Premium Motor Spirit; a return to the era of fuel subsidies.

    The president in his speech acknowledged that Nigerians desired a country where their dreams could be actualized. He also said that he was pained by the loss of life and commiserated with the families of the deceased. More importantly, Mr President called for the suspension of the protests to create room for dialogue. Those who said that the president did not show empathy or recognize the loss of life were not being objective.

    President Bola Tinubu also defended two of his major policies; the removal of fuel subsidies and abolishment of the multiple exchange rate system. He noted that these policies were painful but necessary to reverse the decades of economic mismanagement that didn’t serve the nation well. These policies have resulted in high-level inflation and large foreign exchange losses for multinationals, while banks made foreign exchange gains.

    The speech also outlined various achievements of the current administration. Very remarkable is the reduction in the debt service to revenue ratio from 97% to 68% in the last 13 months. This means that the current administration inherited a situation where the country was using 97% of all its revenue to service debt, which explains the necessity of the shock therapy. Also, the clearance of all foreign exchange obligations has improved investor confidence. The boost in the country’s oil production to 1.61 million barrel per day is also a welcome achievement to mention just a few.

    Read Also: Protest: Keep faith with Tinubu – Mba, Umahi urge southeast

    Some achievements and interventions mentioned by Mr. President might have averted the protest had come earlier. One would have thought that the government would have attended to the issue of a new national minimum wage with more urgency than it did. Now that it has been concluded, the government should ensure its fast implementation. The CNG initiative should have been handled as an emergency considering the impact of the removal of the fuel subsidy on the cost of transportation on goods and services; the hike in transportation cost is one of the major drivers of inflation in Nigeria. The government should have been more proactive in dealing with food inflation by suspending tariffs and other import duties for various food items long ago.

    It is expedient that the administration ensures proper implementation of its policies and initiatives so they don’t end up as just part of the rhetoric. There should be a proper monitoring and evaluation mechanism in place especially for interventions like fertilizer distribution, Digital and Creative Enterprises nano grants, Micro and Small Business single-digit interest loans etc, to ensure resources are not diverted and objectives are achieved. Independent audits should also be carried out from time to time.

    The message President Bola Tinubu should take from the protest is that severe hardship in the land which requires urgent action. Section 14(2)(b) of the Nigerian Constitution of 1999 [as amended] provides that, “the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government.

    While the numerous achievements mentioned in the speech may be remarkable, they mean nothing to the common man if they do not translate to poverty reduction, a drop in unemployment, better access to healthcare, education, etc. Furthermore, the government should fast-track and monitor the implementation of the numerous interventions and programs mentioned to ensure the objective of easing the hardship in the country is achieved. It is a call for more action. Proper and timely implementation of policies is key.

    •Kenechukwu Aguolu,

    Abuja.

  • Lawmakers versus Kyari

    Lawmakers versus Kyari

    Lawmaking must always be about facts and not witch hunt, and when witch hunts make progress, facts retreat. That is one of the trap falls of lawmaking, especially when it is tendentious or when it is perceived to follow preconceived path.

    Suddenly some lawmakers are asking the chief executive of Nigerian National Petroleum Company Ltd (NNPCL) to resign, and they are making a campaign especially after some of them visited the refinery of businessman Aliyu Dangote.

    That seems seamy because they made their decision on the issue of dirty diesel, and they took sides without a scientific turn of mind. So, while they are at it, the news is now countering their conclusions about the quality of diesel in the refinery in Lagos.

    According to a new report, the Sulphur level in the diesel is not what the visit to that refinery portrayed, but confirms the assertion by the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority boss Farouk Ahmed that its Sulphur level is higher than normal.

    This revelation should turn the lawmakers to retrace themselves and interrogate the new revelations that shows that, as arbiters, lawmakers ought to look at both sides of a story before jumping to conclusion. No rebuttal has been made against the new report.

    Read Also: Protest: Keep faith with Tinubu – Mba, Umahi urge southeast

    There is suspicion in some quarters that the lawmakers’ call for the man to resign has nothing to do with the fact that Mele Kyari turned the company from loss to profit in the billions of Naira. It has nothing to do with the fact that the production level of the country has doubled from 800,000 barrels per day to 1.6 million barrels per day, a fact that the president, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, echoed in his broadcast in the aftermath of the protests.

    We can suspect that it has nothing in the form of a grouse against the fact that for the first time, the NNPCL runs an audited account, and that is an act of transparency, the sort we want them to demonstrate in their call for Kyari’s resignation. The lawmakers should let us know if it concerns the delivery of the final investment delivery (FID) for the Nigeria LNG project’s Train 7 development after a grueling four-year snafu.

    There is no perfect situation anywhere, and his stewardship must be encouraged and not looked at with the pessimist’s jaundiced eye. The lawmakers should look again at how the workings of the NNPCL can be better, to increase its production levels and serve Nigerians better.

    President Tinubu intervened in the NMDPR-Dangote furore, and as the top man in the country seeks solution, so should the lawmakers.

  • Fuel subsidy: Another viewpoint

    Fuel subsidy: Another viewpoint

    • By Zayyad I. Muhammad

    Sir: There is a massive call for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to bring back the petroleum subsidy. The 10-day “End Bad Governance” protest and the high prices of commodities and services are the products of the removal of fuel subsidies.

    If President Ahmed Bola Tinubu has no plans to restore petroleum subsidies, the government must look for another way to moderate the price of petroleum products, especially premium motor spirit (PMS). The social problems arising from the aftermath of petroleum subsidy removal are purely local issues that require both theoretical and practical solutions.

    Sometimes, the government relies solely on experts who understand the problem from a theoretical perspective, forgetting the real players in the petroleum industry who understand the problem from all its angles: importation, depot loading, haulage, retailing, and manpower management.

    Apart from the subsidy, there are other ways to effectively reduce the price of petrol drastically. Tinubu should critically consider the restoration of the Petroleum Equalisation Fund (PEF). Since it is a contributory fund, the source of the fund is principally the net surplus revenue recovered from oil marketing companies. The bridging claims paid to the petroleum marketers automatically equalise petroleum prices throughout Nigeria while maintaining their affordability. There is an innovative electronic business solution that has completely eliminated any irregularities in the distribution and claims of bridged regulated petroleum products. It is an excellent electronic business solution designed to track the movement of petroleum products throughout Nigeria.

    Read Also: Tinubu: Govt won’t allow those with clear political agenda tear nation apart

    There are countries that painstakingly control the prices of petrol for national security. These countries often have uniform prices for petrol across the entire country. Examples are Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, India, Malaysia, Iran, and Venezuela. In most of these countries, national security overrides other considerations; the government has significant control over fuel pricing and distribution, often through subsidies or state-owned oil companies.

    Take India for instance, India controls petrol prices through a combination of market dynamics and government policies, like daily price adjustments based on the international price of crude oil. This helps in keeping the prices within a certain range and makes them more affordable for the general public. The Indian government achieves this through the national oil companies Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL). Another mechanism used by India in the price control measures to address inflation concerns, freight, and logistics, is that the government can intervene directly by adjusting excise duties or providing relief to the oil marketers.

    The Tinubu government should help bring the 21 NNPC depots to life, restore many jobs lost, and double-check product quality.

    •Zayyad I. Muhammad,

    Abuja.

  • When protests crossed the line

    When protests crossed the line

    • By Abdulhamid Abdullahi Aliyu

    Sir: The recent nationwide protests in Nigeria, sparked by widespread economic hardship have brought to the forefront the complex dynamics between peaceful advocacy and violent outbursts.

    In Kano State, the protests revealed a troubling transition from legitimate grievances to chaos, highlighting the thin line between civic expression and lawlessness. The movement initially rooted in calls for improved governance and economic relief, quickly escalated into violence in several states, including Abuja, Kano, Niger, Borno, Kaduna, and Jigawa.

    Tragically, at least 17 people were reported dead, with security forces clashing with demonstrators. In Kano, one person was killed, marking a tragic turn in what began as a peaceful demonstration. The protest in Kano, like in other parts of the country, began peacefully but soon spiralled out of control.

    Eyewitness accounts describe a scene of escalating tension, where demonstrators initially blocked highways and harassed motorists.  In a particularly disturbing incident, protesters in Kano targeted the newly established Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) office.

    The building, symbolizing a step towards greater digital connectivity and innovation, was looted and set ablaze. Everything, from office furniture to technological equipment, was taken or destroyed. This act of vandalism not only disrupted a crucial public service but also symbolized a broader collapse of order and respect for public property.

    During the protests, a poignant moment occurred when a female protester, carrying her baby, confronted police officers. Her husband had been killed by bandits in Katsina, and she came to the protest to voice her frustration with the government’s failure to address widespread insecurity and economic hardship.

    “Do they also want to kill my baby?” she asked, highlighting the desperation felt by many Nigerians. Similarly, the presence of pro-government demonstrators added another layer of complexity.

    The government’s response has been a mix of force and appeals for dialogue. Security forces, using teargas and pepper spray, tried to disperse the crowds, while helicopters overhead released additional teargas to control the situation. The use of such measures, however, did little to quell the unrest and instead fuelled public anger and defiance.

    Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike called for dialogue, emphasizing the government’s willingness to engage with the protesters. However, the continued violence and heavy-handed tactics used by the security forces suggest a deeper disconnect between the authorities and the populace.

    Read Also: Protests: Police blast Amnesty over inaccurate casualty figures

    The chaos in Kano and other states serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for economic and social reforms in Nigeria. While the protests highlight legitimate concerns over governance, security, and economic management, the turn to violence undermines these issues’ seriousness. 

    The destruction of public property, looting, and loss of lives cannot be condoned, as they detract from the core message of the protests and harm innocent citizens. Moving forward, it is crucial for both the government and protest leaders to find common ground. The government must not only listen to the demands of the people but also provide tangible solutions to the problems of unemployment, inflation, and insecurity.

    On the other hand, protest organizers must emphasize peaceful demonstration and discourage violence. The recent events in Kano and across Nigeria reflect a broader crisis of governance and trust. It is a wake-up call for all stakeholders to address the root causes of the discontent and work towards a more equitable and just society.

    Only through constructive engagement and mutual respect can Nigeria hope to navigate these turbulent times and build a future that meets the aspirations of all its citizens.

    •Abdulhamid Abdullahi Aliyu,

    abdulhamidabdullahiali@ gmail.com

  • Now that the President has spoken

    Now that the President has spoken

    • By Bukola Ajisola

    Sir: There was nothing President Bola Tinubu could have said that will not be politicized by the gladiators waiting in the wings to subject his speech to forensic algorithms.

    If the president had been less dramatic on his day of inauguration and quietly allowed subsidies on petrol to disappear as was intended in the zero budgetary allocation by his predecessor, perhaps the dynamics of the unfortunate protests would have taken a different shape.

    The president is being put on the spot to give another speech to reinstate the egregious subsidy regimes that would offer a temporary relief which I love to call the Venezuelan option.

    The option makes available cheap fossil fuels procured with huge debt financing that is certain to gulp more than a hundred percent of the nation’s treasury including all projected revenues.

    Be that as it may, the silence of the state governors who have received the windfall of their lives owing to the subsidy removal should be of more concern to Nigerians. Lagosians for instance should be more interested in what Lagos governor says about land reforms, lack of which is rendering millions of professionals in the built industry prostrate.

    Lack of potable water in most part of Lagos has made the city a staccato of tunnelling boreholes in the 21St century.

    In the same vein, it may not be out of place to ask what Lagos State has done with one of the largest rice mills in Africa capable of employing almost all the hungry protesters who have taken to the streets.

    A state in the South/South region just spent N850bn on luxury cars not minding the ravaging hunger putting the populace at their wits end.

    Tinubu’s gift of elocution or stage comportment is of lesser consequence to discerning Nigerians who in their millions are caught between the raging mob of rioters, activists ventilating for populism and peaceful protesters who do not understand the dynamics of what has befalling the nation.

    President Tinubu has done his best within his first year in office; there are some of his decisions that could be better enunciated going forward but that is left for future interrogation.

    Read Also: Tinubu: Govt won’t allow those with clear political agenda tear nation apart

    I would rather that the Local Government chairmen and their councillors put Nigerians to speed on their fidelity to budgetary deliverables while putting their efforts to improving social services in the public domain.

    Organizers of the hunger protest as well as well-meaning community leaders should form pressure groups in every local government to compel local authorities to engage Nigerians on regular basis.

    The hardship corollaries are domiciled in the local governments and are exacerbated by the governors’ wasteful spending with their opaque and lack of transparent accounting practices.

    Hopefully the recent Supreme Court’s ruling on local government autonomy would put paid to the unabated recklessness.

    A presidential broadcast to regurgitate the obvious facts of why subsidies cannot be reversed is of no probationary value to the polity at a time the security agents are having difficult time quelling the raging protests.

    However, the president can initiate four urgent interventions which could turn around the economy going forward.

    One is ascertaining that all the comatose refineries are working latest by the end of 2024, secondly more scrutiny of the fiscal responsibility at the subnational level by EFCC and ICPC would be of tremendous importance, implementing a revised Oronsaye Report and lastly ramping up production by recalibrating our steel industry.

    A stitch in time can save nine billion and the next protest could be the last straw.

    •Bukola Ajisola,

    bukymany@yahoo.com

  • Haba Abba!

    Haba Abba!

    For the third time in just more than a year, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State, just made another wrong call. 

    What was he thinking — playing to the gallery on protests, while most other governors were telling their people to stay off the streets and opt for something less perilous?

    Well, beware of what you crave, goes that popular English quip.  It may well come back to plague you! 

    Abba’s beloved protesters soon stormed the Kano State House — with their “letters” of petrol bombs, cudgels, broken bottles and stones: for onward delivery to Abuja, as the governor had rhapsodized! 

    En route, they torched a few cars while looting a court complex — with Milord’s pricey wig sitting pretty on the empty skull of a looney protester! — aside a few eateries that fell to frenzied looters, sorry protesters!  Abba just got his dream protest!

    There must be something and bad calls with Governor Yusuf.  First, he went on a demolition spree, just to sate political vengeance.  That has cost the Kano purse dearly, in hefty court fines.

    Then, “yanga sleep trouble go wake am”-wise, he blundered into an Emirship crisis, which has resulted in the de-facto cohabitation of two Kano emirs in the same Kano city! 

    Okay, de jure, the governor kids himself he had dethroned one of the two.  But that is the subject of a raging legal suit, the outcome of which no one can predict.

    Again, you can guess the motive: vengeance against an old order, instead of squarely facing his not-so-new one, to make Kano better.

    Read Also: Tinubu: Govt won’t allow those with clear political agenda tear nation apart

    And now, this: protests which have taken their toll on Kano’s commerce and economy, with mostly child-hoodlums looting with manic zest.  Does that even say anything for the Yusuf government’s child development policies?

    Were Kano some PLC with shareholders tracking their investments, the investors would have called out Yusuf and his government, for the way Kano has bled this last one year!

    But even with that, Abba’s acts would shape Abba’s legacy, compared with his precursors.

    Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, Abba’s political godfather, defined own two non-consecutive tenures with solid infrastructures, social and physical, including setting up Kano’s Northwest University (NWU: now Yusuf Maitama Sule University).

    Even immediate predecessor and arch-foe, Abdullahi Ganduje, added own infrastructure stock, in audacious flyovers to further open up Kano for commerce, aside providing a large expanse of land ready for ranching, when many of his peers were playing lusty politics with herder-farmer crises.

    Pray, what will be Abba’s own report card, now that a year is already gone?  Mangled public monuments to teach Kano’s history?  Sterile emirate battles?  Call to protest that turned awry?

    Well, votes have consequences!

  • Imperative of state and community policing

    Imperative of state and community policing

    • By Chris Biose

    One of the major challenges in contemporary Nigeria is heightening insecurity which has overwhelmed federal security agencies. Many innocent citizens are killed every day by unknown persons. Every responsible government is duty-bound to protect the lives and property of its citizens as utmost priority. Therefore, each level of government must be constitutionally empowered to maintain peace in its area of jurisdiction through a decentralized policing system.

    In a speech at the Resumed Constitutional Conference on Nigeria held at Lancaster House, London, in September 1958, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, who was then leader of the Action Group and Premier of Western Region, outlined the position of his delegation on several constitutional issues, including regionalisation of the Nigeria Police. He presented several logical and factual grounds for the establishment of Regional police, but for reasons of space, I will cite only three in this discourse:

    First, said Chief Awolowo, it is “wrong in principle to vest a government with responsibility for the maintenance of law and order and, at the same time, refuse to provide that government with the necessary executive instruments for discharging its responsibility.”

    The sage also said that the centralisation of Police “has no parallel or precedent in any part of the British Commonwealth with a Federal Constitution, save Malaya, where a perpetual state of emergency has necessitated an extraordinary policy in police matters.”

    On the claim by colonial administrators, which continues to be parroted by some Nigerian politicians that state police would be politically biased, the late sage averred, “I consider it a gratuitous insult to Nigerian leaders for high-ranking British officials in Nigeria and British spokesmen in Britain to suggest that, if the Police are regionalised, they would be used as instruments of oppression against political opponents. It seems to me grossly illogical and untenable to maintain, as British protagonists of centralisation of Police have done, that while political leaders in the Regions are incapable of making responsible use of the Police Force, these same leaders, if they happen to be in the Central Government, would automatically undergo some inexplicable metamorphosis, which would transform them into new beings sufficiently responsible to administer the very subject which has been denied them in the Regions.”

    Nigeria is a vast country covering diverse geographical zones and cultural groups and it is absolutely impossible for the Federal Police in Abuja to ensure security in all nooks and crannies in all parts of the country. No amount of vain and hypocritical exhortations by politically biased IGPs will bring about the much-desired peace and security in Nigeria. By its consistent refusal to facilitate the establishment of regional, state and community policing, the Federal Government constitutes itself as the chief promoter of insecurity in Nigeria.

    Moreover, it is futile to invite police officers to fight crime one thousand kilometres away in a country that lacks efficient communication and transport systems. It is dysfunctional to post officers from other cultural groups to perform policing functions in states where cultural gaps create difficulties in understanding local issues by those acculturated outside those areas.

    Read Also: Normalcy returns to Abuja after protesters’ clash with security operatives

    Decentralisation of policing as practised in other countries with a federal system of government is the panacea to encroaching insecurity. No amount of deployment of soldiers to perform policing duties will promote security in the country.

    Drastic reduction in the crime rate in the country will only be achieved when those closest to the scene of crime are allowed to fight it. With state and local policing in place, it would have been very difficult for the Boko Haram terrorist sect to incubate and build up its forces in Sambisa Forest over a period of several years without being detected by the security apparatus in Borno State. Their organisational apparatus would have been nipped in the bud.

    Borno State spans an area of 70,898 km2 and more than double the land area of five South-East states put together. Even though most of the land is unoccupied, it is unrealistic to expect the ill-staffed, ill-equipped and ill motivated Federal Police at Abuja or the state command of the Federal Police at Maiduguri, to effectively monitor the vast area.

    With state policing, the constant massacre of peaceful villagers in Benue, Taraba and some other states by Fulani herdsmen militia would not be possible.

    With state police, failure of security would no longer be blamed on the Federal Government. It would no longer be tenable to accuse Nigerian soldiers and Police of colluding with Fulani militia to kill people in various parts of the country.

    Attention would shift to how well state governors provide security for their states.

    Under that condition, no one would reasonably blame a President for failing to provide security in states. The Nigerian Armed Forces would concentrate on its constitutional duty of defence of the country rather than be deployed to intimidate road users at roadblocks, on election duties and as security guards for politicians and rich people.

    Based on the above premises, I submit that the first step to bringing about a reasonable level of security in the country is the establishment of regional, state and community policing. This will place the enforcement of laws in the hands of states and officers who know the terrain and who are closer to the people.

    •Biose is a sociologist, human rights activist and author, from Asaba, Delta State.

  • Navigating Nigeria’s future: call for dialogue and collaboration

    Navigating Nigeria’s future: call for dialogue and collaboration

    The current situation in Nigeria, marked by protests, unrest, and economic challenges, underscores the urgent need for dialogue, reconciliation, and concerted action to address pressing issues and pave the way for progress and development. As Senator Orji Uzor Kalu rightly points out, the ongoing protests have deviated from the principles of peaceful assembly and are causing harm to the economy and society at large. In this context, it is imperative to suspend the protests indefinitely, engage in meaningful dialogue, and chart a collaborative path forward for the benefit of the country and its citizens.

    The current protest in Nigeria has failed to meet every parameter that defines a protest. Indeed, half education is a dangerous tool; as the saying goes, “Half education is worse than ignorance.” In this case, the protester’s lack of proper education led to the downfall, akin to falling on their own sword. The consequences of being misinformed or partially educated can be potent and destructive, highlighting the importance of seeking and acquiring a comprehensive education to navigate life’s challenges with wisdom and discernment. This lack of education and turbulent approach undermines the legitimacy and impact of the protest, emphasizing the significance of knowledge and strategy in effective advocacy.

    There are several reasons why the current protests in Nigeria may fail to meet the criteria to be referred to as a protest.

    Firstly, the protests may lack a clear and unified message or demands. Without specific goals or demands, it can be difficult for the protests to gain traction and effect change.

    Additionally, the protests may lack organization and leadership. Without clear leadership and organization, it can be challenging to sustain momentum and coordinate effective actions.

    Furthermore, the protests may lack widespread participation and support from the general public. For protests to be successful, they often require broad-based support and participation from a diverse range of people.

    Overall, the current protests in Nigeria may fail to meet the criteria to be referred to as a protest due to a lack of clear goals, organization, leadership, and widespread public support.

    On day one of the protests, disturbing reports emerged of violence and evidence of politicians financing demonstrations against the government. This insidious manipulation of public dissent for political gain further undermines the legitimacy and integrity of the protest movement. Such actions not only detract from the noble intentions of those genuinely seeking positive change but also perpetuate a cycle of unrest and division within society. It is crucial to scrutinize and condemn these nefarious tactics to uphold the true essence of peaceful protest and democratic discourse.

    The presence of violence and the involvement of politicians in sponsoring protests can detract from the legitimacy and effectiveness of a protest. Violence can undermine the message and goals of the protest, causing harm to individuals and property, and potentially alienating potential supporters.

    Additionally, when politicians are involved in sponsoring protests, it raises questions about the authenticity and motives behind the demonstrations. Politicians may have their own agenda or interests in supporting protests, which can take away from the grassroots nature of a protest and undermine its credibility.

    For a protest to be effective and have a positive impact, it needs to be peaceful, well-organized, and driven by genuine grassroots movements with clear and unified demands. The presence of violence and political interference can hinder the success of protests and make it difficult to achieve meaningful change.

    In addressing the current turmoil in the country, the government must consider a range of strategic interventions. First and foremost, fostering open dialogue and engagement with all stakeholders, including protest leaders and community representatives, is essential to understanding the underlying grievances and finding common ground for resolution. Additionally, implementing transparent and accountable governance practices, such as enacting meaningful reforms and combating corruption, can help rebuild trust and restore confidence in the government’s ability to address the people’s concerns. Furthermore, investing in social programs and infrastructure development to improve the quality of life for citizens can help alleviate some of the systemic issues fueling the unrest. Ultimately, a combination of proactive communication, effective governance, and holistic development initiatives is crucial for the government to navigate the complexities of the current situation and promote lasting peace and stability in the country.

    Read Also: Violent protest: Military on standby to restore law, order, says CDS

    Essentially, the government should intervene as a matter of utmost urgency in the current protest situation in Nigeria in several ways, including:

    1. Dialogue and negotiation: The government can engage in dialogue with protest organizers to address their grievances and find peaceful solutions to the issues at hand. This can help de-escalate tensions and build trust between the government and protesters.

    2. Law enforcement: The government can deploy law enforcement officers to maintain public order and ensure the safety of all citizens. Law enforcement should act in a professional and non-violent manner to prevent further escalation of violence.

    3. Political reforms: The government can address the grievances of protesters by implementing political reforms that address issues such as corruption, inequality, and lack of accountability. By taking concrete steps to address these issues, the government can demonstrate its commitment to addressing the concerns of the protesters.

    4. Economic reforms: The government can implement economic reforms to address issues such as unemployment, high cost of living, and lack of economic opportunities. By improving the economic situation of the country, the government can address some of the underlying issues that are fueling the protests.

    5. Reconciliation and healing: The government can work towards reconciliation and healing by acknowledging past wrongs, promoting unity and understanding among different groups, and fostering a culture of inclusivity and tolerance.

    Overall, the government should prioritize peaceful and inclusive approaches to addressing the current protest situation in Nigeria, while also taking concrete steps to address the underlying issues that are driving the protests. By engaging in meaningful dialogue, implementing reforms, and promoting reconciliation, the government can work towards resolving the current crisis and building a more stable and prosperous future for all Nigerians.

    Intriguingly, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu’s viewpoint is one perspective core to the ongoing situation in Nigeria. In his statement, he emphasizes the need for peaceful dialogue and adherence to international laws regarding protests. He suggests that the current protest’s actions are not in line with the principles of peaceful assembly and may lead to further chaos and economic harm.

    While it is important to consider all viewpoints in such complex situations, the effectiveness and legitimacy of protests can vary depending on the context and actions taken by both protesters and authorities. It is ultimately up to the government, civil society, and other stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue, address grievances, and find peaceful solutions to the challenges facing Nigeria.

    It is crucial for all parties involved to prioritize the well-being and safety of the people, protect human rights, and work towards a more inclusive and prosperous future for all Nigerians. By fostering understanding, respect, and cooperation, it is possible to navigate through difficult times and build a more resilient and equitable society.

    Having previously dismissed the notion of protests at this juncture, citing my belief in the diligent efforts of the Tinubu administration to reshape Nigeria’s trajectory towards prosperity, it is imperative to now explore the pathways forward for the nation amidst the current challenges. In light of recent events, it is evident that a proactive and comprehensive strategy is needed to address the various sociopolitical and economic issues facing Nigeria. As such, a holistic approach that encompasses political dialogue, governance reforms, social investments, and infrastructure development is essential for steering the country towards a path of sustainable progress and unity. In charting this course, stakeholders across all sectors must collaborate and prioritize the long-term collective interests of the nation, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility in shaping Nigeria’s future trajectory.

    Of course, moving forward, the way forward for Nigeria at this critical time involves a combination of immediate actions and long-term strategies to address the current challenges and pave the way for sustainable development and progress. Some key steps that could be considered include:

    1. Dialogue and reconciliation: The government, civil society, and protesters should engage in sincere, inclusive, and productive dialogue to address grievances, build trust, and find peaceful and mutually acceptable solutions to the issues at hand. Reconciliation efforts should also be made to heal divisions and promote national unity.

    2. Addressing economic challenges: Nigeria should implement comprehensive economic reforms to stimulate growth, reduce poverty and inequality, create jobs, and improve the standard of living for all citizens. This may involve diversifying the economy, investing in key sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and technology, and promoting entrepreneurship and innovation.

    3. Good governance and accountability: Enhancing transparency, accountability, and good governance are essential to restoring trust in government institutions and promoting public confidence. Efforts should be made to eliminate corruption, improve public service delivery, and ensure that government actions are guided by the principles of fairness, justice, and the rule of law.

    4. Social inclusivity and equity: Addressing social inequalities, discrimination, and marginalization is crucial to building a just and inclusive society where all individuals have equal opportunities and access to essential services. Policies should be designed to promote social cohesion, protect human rights, and empower marginalized communities.

    5. Security and peacebuilding: Strengthening security and promoting peace and stability are vital for creating an enabling environment for socio-economic development. Efforts should be made to address security challenges, combat violence and conflict, and promote dialogue and reconciliation among diverse ethnic, religious, and cultural groups.

    6. International cooperation and partnerships: Nigeria should engage with the international community, regional organizations, and development partners to leverage external support, resources, and expertise for addressing national challenges, promoting sustainable development, and advancing common goals.

    Essentially, by pursuing these and other strategic initiatives, Nigeria can overcome current obstacles, build resilience, and chart a path towards a more prosperous, peaceful, and inclusive future for all its citizens. It will require collective efforts, political will, and sustained commitment from all sectors of society to realize these aspirations and achieve sustainable development and positive change.

    In conclusion, the complex challenges facing Nigeria require a multi-faceted approach that combines dialogue, economic reforms, good governance, social inclusivity, security, and international cooperation. By coming together in a spirit of unity, understanding, and mutual respect, Nigerians can overcome divisions, build a prosperous and peaceful nation, and create a better future for generations to come. It is only through collective action, shared responsibility, and a commitment to positive change that Nigeria can realize its full potential and truly thrive as a vibrant and inclusive society.

    • Ademola, Nigeria’s first professor of Artificial Intelligence, writes from London

  • Protest: Baba Adinni of Lagos calls for calm, dialogue

    Protest: Baba Adinni of Lagos calls for calm, dialogue

    • By Sherifdeen Amusa

    The Baba Adinni of Lagos, Alhaji Sikiru Alabi-Macfoy, has appealed to Nigerians to be patient with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration in the face of economic hardship.

    The Muslim leader called on those agitating for protest to explore dialogue with the government and their representatives at various legislative houses.

    Alhaji Alabi-Macfoy stated that dialogue if properly harnessed, would help solve the present socio-economic challenges.

    He cautioned against violence protest that may lead to destruction of public infrastructure.

    “The youths should be patient. Development in any society is gradual and comes with pains at the early stage. Whatever their grievances are, they should say it out, the government will listen and they’ll make sure they work on it,” he said.

    Read Also: Wike: senator behind protests in FCT

    Citing the looting of private firms and destruction of public facilities during the #EndSARS# Protest, the Baba Adinni of Lagos warned that a repeat of such would result in suffering for all.

    “If we spoil everything, we’ll have to start again and everybody will suffer. If you burn buses and loot companies, nobody will be able to go to work; factories will not work, Industries will wind up, and traders who survive on daily trade will be affected as well. We need to put on our thinking cap before carrying out any action,” he said.

    He, however, called on elected officials to go back to their constituencies, listen to their people’s grievances, engage them and come up with realistic solutions.

    Alhaji Alabi-Macfoy appealed to clerics to assuage the populace with their sermons and urged them to continue to pray for the country.

  • NAZAS lifts 60,000 with N700m Zakat proceed

    NAZAS lifts 60,000 with N700m Zakat proceed

    The Interim Chairman of the NASFAT Agency for Zakat and Sadaqah (NAZAS), Alhaji Abdulwahab Abdurrahman, has said that the agency  has so far been mobilised N700m and disbursed since its establishment in 2014.

    Alhaji Abdurrahman said over 60,000 indigents have benefitted including over 3000 direct beneficiaries through regular public disbursement on health and education.

    He spoke on the sidelines of the NAZAS’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) and distribution of Zakat to the less privileged.

    The event featured the ratification of appointment of three Directors made by the Board of Directors between October and December 2023. They are Imam Saheed Adekunle, Alhaja Kuburat Lawal and Prof. Maruf Adelekan. Also, the immediate former chairman, Alhaji Hafiz Bakare, and ex-Directors – Dr. Nosiru Onibon and Alhaja Shareefah Andu, were honoured with awards for their contributions.

    According to Alhaji Abdurrahman, the items distributed would go a long way in ameliorating the suffering of the masses.

    He said: “As an agency we have been able to sustain the consolidation of accounts of zones as they evolve which has basically led to our crossing the N100 million mark in Zakat and Sadaqat collections within a single year achieved in 2021 and has been maintained till date.

    “We have continuously attended to the need of people with urgent health requests as well as provided educational scholarship grants to over 200 students annually while not relenting in organizing Health missions in communities which had benefitted over 3,500 indigents.

    Read Also: Protest: Banks, malls, markets close shop

    “The Train-to-Fund Scheme (TTFS) which is a platform to facilitate a combined offer of training/skills acquisition followed by financial empowerment of selected beneficiaries in different categories has continued to produce more alumni since the inauguration of the pioneer set of beneficiaries…”

    General Manager of NAZAS, Mufutau Adelotan, said applicants went through an interview session where they were grilled to ascertain the genuineness of their claims.

    He said application forms are released every January.

    “This is our tenth year, and we have collected well over N700 million as zakat. To be specific for this year, as at June, we collected about N154 million. Today, across all our zones and headquarters, we are disbursing N130 million to over 300 beneficiaries. From the balance of N20 million, some funds will be disbursed later, and a part will account for the running cost.”

    He complained that the forex exchange made it difficult for many Nigerians to meet up with the Nisab (financial threshold for qualifying to pay zakat).

    Adelotan noted that previous beneficiaries of zakat disbursement are doing well in their endeavours, and have started giving back to the initiative in little ways.

    “By December, we will have Food and Clothing Day, most of our previous beneficiaries support the initiative. Aside that, our beneficiaries have been giving back in other ways. For instance, the plaques we gave to our past directors were made by one of them. He has also been training people on the trade. So, they have been giving back materially too,” he said.

    National Missioner of NASFAT, Sheikh Abdulaziz Onike admonished Muslims that the current economic downturn in the country should not be an excuse for Muslims to stop paying zakat once they can afford it.

    “Allah has never promised us that everything will go on smoothly all the time. It is even now that some people are making money. Everybody is complaining that there is no money, but some people are smiling to the banks. Regardless of the economic situation, the Muslim community should continue to give zakat to the vulnerable. It is a religious duty. There will always be people who can afford to pay zakat, and they must pay it.”