The Nation Newspaper

Category: Commentaries

  • IGP and crumbling empire

    IGP and crumbling empire

    Who dunnit?  That’s not exactly clear — with the hee-haw after, the virtual extended clearing of the throat and the fond bid to deflect the message when it was clear total denial was impossible.

    What is clear, however, would appear the conventional wisdom — more of folly, really — within the Nigeria Police: that despite being stretched so thin, almost ragged, Nigeria is still — to echo that glorious cliche — “not ripe” for state police!

    It was the IGP’s glorious declaration at the House of Representatives palaver on state police and how to go about it, as part of the general re-federalization process of the polity. 

    A day or two later — perhaps realizing how obsolete that stand had become in the face of the current security grit, someone crawled out of the woodworks to claim the take was his personal view and not the Police’s. 

    Even then, a “ghost” lurks in, in there — was the disclaimer for the IGP or his envoy at the parley?  Besides, how flat that sounded!  Was the IGP invited over there to just say his personal opinion or reflect the view of the state institution he represents?

    It’s all wash anyway — that stand against state police.  The grounds indeed are laughable.  The IGP’s magic formula: corral the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) — what net difference will that make to boosting police performance, except making the IGP new “emperor” of a flabby — not necessarily more effective — Police “empire”?

    Besides, aren’t the two agencies already active on the federal front?  If the three — Police, NSCDC and FRSC– had been cumulatively effective, though as discrete federal civil security agencies — why the trenchant call for state police?

    Read Also: Investigate Lagos police officer over alleged N5m bribe, group begs IGP

    Then, the appeal to fear, as desperate fear-mongering tactics: Nigeria must recruit X numbers of police personnel a year for more effectiveness, the states are too poor to run police forces, governors would abuse the police, bla, bla, bla!

    Is the Federal Government, flush with resources, doing all the funding in the Police right now?  Was it the one that transformed the Nigeria Police operating in Lagos to a far better force, with telling hardware and communications gadgets?  Didn’t President Olusegun Obasanjo flagrantly abuse the Nigeria Police to deliver his do-or-die election of 2007?  So, where is the IGP’s pseudo-moral platform coming from?

    That the Police need exponential expansion in personnel even makes more logical boosting the number with state police.  It’s a more effective route to that threshold.

    Let the IGP and his (wo)men ponder checks-and-balances; and rigorous regulations guiding Nigeria Police-state police relations.  The empire the IGP ogles has long past collapsed. The result is the dire security situation.

    Let the Rip van Winkles: the arch-centralists in the Nigeria Police snap out of their reverie.  Others have moved on.

  • Dangote refinery and future of private depots

    Dangote refinery and future of private depots

    SIR: The entry of Dangote Refinery into the downstream sector of the oil and gas industry, especially as it pertains to marketing of its Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), does not give the impression that there would be a fair playground for major players like Private Depot Operators (PDO) across the country who serve as intermediaries between refiners or suppliers and retailers. Without prejudice, building a whopping $20billion refinery is no mean feat, the Dangote Group is highly commended for demystifying what hitherto was unimaginable. Even though AGO has been fully deregulated, plus the business must recoup investments as well as make reasonable profits, the Dangote Refinery’s entry into the market seems a temporary solution to a big problem.

    First is commencing local trading with retail direct trucking, though with a minimum purchase quantity of 1million litres denominated in naira, while denominating coastal in USD ($964.59/MT) mode of payment Letter of Credit (LC) over and above $814.75 ICE price dated May 24,2024 considering the bigness and enviable position of the refinery not only in Nigeria and the states of Africa, but also in the world, given the expectation of the refinery as a panacea to Nigeria’s downstream problems as well as forex exposures and pressure insulator. Taking cognizance of the $150,000 freight charges to Apapa Jetty inherent in their PFI plus other external logistics and cost of funds, escalating $1120/Naira. Worst case scenario, this week, I computed landing cost at N1,050 to one of my client’s tank farm at Kirikiri, Lagos, based on Dangote Refinery-issued Coastal PFI, only to hear in the news that the refinery the next day had reviewed its AGO retail trucking price to N1,000/litre. Imagine what would be the fate of my client had it been he landed the product in his tank farm, likewise many Private Depot Operators. Current unfolding developments have made trading AGO a nightmare. Distortion of prices at will by the days and the minutes will not augur well for short and medium term trade planning and execution, especially in a highly volatile market like the AGO which responds in no small measures to forex fluctuations, The good news is that the government of the day recently approved naira for crude transactions for Dangote Refinery and modular refineries in the country.

    Read Also: NEITI gives Dangote Refinery guidelines

    Second, the role of Private Depot Operation (PDO) in the scheme of refined petroleum products marketing and distribution across the country cannot be overemphasized, going by their huge investments and re-investment as well as their large number and strategic locations. Even the industry leader and principal, NNPCL, makes judicious use of them for tru-put purposes. Unless Dangote Group, the NDPRA, and NNPCL factor them into the scheme of  things to come, they never stand a chance to compete favorably with the entrepreneurial beast in Dangote’s business exploits. Truth is, there’s no how on earth any or all the PDOs can ever have competitive advantage or even be at par with the Dangote Refinery in both marketing and distribution, whether or not you buy from Dangote, as their entry into the market marks the beginning of the end of importation of refined petroleum products into the country.

    Third, it is pertinent that the Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN) rise to the occasion in order to protect and safeguard their businesses and investments by being a force to be reckoned with, and equally have a seat on the highest table of decision-making pertaining to downstream oil and gas activities in the country – both government and private sectors. It’s on record that most of the members are overwhelmed with forex exposure liabilities to the tune of billions of naira caused by matured obligations of LC transactions that the banks and CBN were unable to circle out over the years even as they have for a very long time – some two to one year – returned naira equivalent upon completion of AGO transactions with even their profits together with their counterpart equity contributions to their respective banks as forwards to CBN, but were caught up with the recent dollar debacle. Lest we forget, even the recent much celebrated $7billion forex backlog settlement by the CBN, much as it is commendable, was done at the prevailing forex market rates as against the $460+ previous rates the various LCs were then established. Hence the magnitude of forex exposures, majority of which directly affected the DAPPMAN members as they are suffering in silence. As the Dangote refinery comes on board, the onus lies with DAPPMAN to thrive or to surrender.

    • Ibrahim Bala Mahmood ibmahmood@yahoo.com
  • Anti-corruption war and society’s failure

    Anti-corruption war and society’s failure

    SIR: Let’s begin with the profound words of Bishop Mathew Kukah, Convener of the National Peace Committee. Kukah expressed his disappointment with the performance of former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello, stating that the ex-governor has been a “poor advertisement” for what young people can achieve. He posited: “I feel very sad because Kogi has been on the front burner and Yahaya Bello, the governor, prided himself on being the youngest governor and being a representation of what the youths of this country can do if they are given the opportunity.”

    The big question is, have we failed as a society? Are the same youths’ examples of Betta Edu-gate and alleged criminalities of the likes of Yahaya Bello a good omen?

    Yahaya Adoza Bello, born 18 June 1975, was a politician who served as the governor of Kogi State from 2016 to 2024. Bello was the youngest governor in Nigeria throughout his term in office. His political career began with a loss to Abubakar Audu in the All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial primary in 2015. Audu won the election, but died on election day; Bello was selected to replace him as party nominee and was sworn in the following year.

    The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) recently dragged the former Kogi governor before Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Maitama, Abuja for alleged N84billion money laundering offenses, alongside his nephew Ali Bello, Dauda Sulaiman and Abdulsalam Hudu. The EFCC had previously seized $760,910.84 that Bello allegedly paid to American International School, Abuja, as fees for four children until graduation, over money laundering.

    It is difficult to definitively say what the biggest failure in modern society is, as different people perceive it differently. When you consider what society has experienced in recent years, particularly in our beloved country Nigeria, it can feel like we are spinning in circles – exhausting ourselves on a hamster wheel continuing to desperately do what we’ve always done and believe what we’ve always believed.

    Some of our greatest challenges are those we are capable of overcoming, yet within our current structures and systems, we find ourselves falling short. For example, in a system that allows Diezani Alison-Madueke to plunder and get away with billions of dollars, former Accountant-General of the Federal Idris Ahmed stole over N100 billion public fund; why would the younger elements be different?

    In this vein, there is a sense of empirically nauseating feeling of general public profligacy and corruption of etiquette – given the pitiable situations and as Nigeria languishes in debt laced with unending economic crisis, it would have been expected that state governors would cut their coat according to the cloth. But the reverse has been the case as some of the state chief executives have been leading a profligate lifestyle.

    This is a clear indication of profligacy, recklessness and corrupt tendencies of Yahaya Bello who prided himself as the youngest governor. It is appalling to say the least. As it stands today, Bello is a fugitive of the law.

    Read Also: NDIC deepens transparency with anti-corruption unit inauguration

    This is the time to demand for accountability from public office holders. It is not enough to work only on setting up democratic institutions and processes. These institutions and processes must be put to work, creating opportunities for citizens to lead healthy and productive lives. Ensuring that government actually works for the public good requires informed, organized, active and peaceful citizen participation. Citizens must, therefore, understand ideas about citizenship, politics and government.

    It is, a thing of joy that the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, has called on ex-Governor Bello to follow the path of decency and submit himself for probe. Fagbemi posited: “I state unequivocally that I stand for the rule of law and will promptly call EFCC and indeed any other agency to order when there is indication of any transgression of the fundamental rights of any Nigerian by any of the agencies. But I also tenaciously hold the view that institutions of state should be allowed to function effectively and efficiently. Nigeria has a vibrant judicial system that is capable of protecting everyone who follows the rule of law in seeking protection.” The likes of Yahaya Bello, Betta Edu and many others should be an example of zero tolerance for corruption of President Bola Tinubu’s era.

    • Richard Odusanya odusanyagold@gmail.com
  • Tales from Osun

    Tales from Osun

    There was public confusion over which of the two wives of Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke would host Nigeria’s First Lady, Remi Tinubu, who was scheduled to visit the state for an official event on April 23.  Each of the wives had claimed to be the state’s First Lady in conflicting posters regarding the visit.

    The governor’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, was forced to issue a statement, “for clarification,” saying “Chief (Mrs) Titilola Adeleke, the First Lady of Osun State, is officially hosting” Mrs Tinubu.  He added: “The flier circulating purportedly from the Office of Erelu Ngozi Adeleke, the wife of the State Governor, is fake news and the person behind it was nabbed and questioned.”  According to him, the said flier was “never authorized by Erelu Ngozi Adeleke,” but was “manufactured and shared by elements who wanted to sow discord and create an atmosphere of confusion.”

    Who was “nabbed and questioned”? Who “manufactured and shared” the flier? In order to be believable, the state government must go beyond presenting vague information. 

    When Governor Adeleke welcomed Mrs Tinubu, who was in Osogbo for the sod-turning ceremony to launch the Alternative High School for Girls, he told a story about their time in the Senate. 

    He said: “I remember that she was my senior colleague at the 8th assembly; there was a time the media caught me sleeping in the Senate, so they wanted to blackmail me. I told them how tedious our job is in making bills and having several sleepless nights over Nigeria.

    Read Also: BREAKING: First Lady arrives Osun for turning of sod of alternative school for girls

    “We don’t sleep till 4am most times. They (the media) were not listening to me; I almost fell for their blackmail. So, I ran to Mama (First Lady) when she was going to Lagos; I told her that I wanted to ask her something. I said I was sleeping and the media came to me that they saw me sleeping and it seemed they wanted to collect something from me.

    “She told me ‘Ma da won lohun’ (Don’t answer them), let them go and write whatever thing they want to write, tell them that you are a human being, because they have done that to her before. I made use of what she told me. That helped me out from paying a lot of money.”

    His uncomplimentary generalisation was unfair to the media.  If certain media practitioners had tried to blackmail him, such alleged blackmailers did not represent the whole of the media. He ought to know the difference between a part and the whole.

  • Bolstering security in Ogun

    Bolstering security in Ogun

    • By Lekan Adeniran

    In the realm of security and economic development, Ogun State shines as a beacon of progress. Since the coming of Prince Dapo Abiodun, the Gateway State has witnessed uninterrupted peace and massive economic development.

      It stands as one of the most peaceful and fastest-growing states in Nigeria, a testament to its importance. The responsibility to safeguard this crucial massive business hub with over 6,000 industries, fell upon the government to bolster security measures, as the state’s progress and its nearness to Lagos, the nation’s commercial capital had caught the eye of other parts of the country, drawing people in daily.

    The Abiodun-led administration has committed huge resources to equip the many security outfits in the state, including the Nigeria Police, the Southwest security outfit, Amotekun, So Safe Corps, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), to ensure that the many business concerns, industries and the citizens of the state enjoy high level of security.

    The three-day official visit by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, to the Gateway State last week was an icing on the cake in the attempt by Governor Abiodun to further secure the state. It turned out to be a harvest of a sort for the state. At the Governor’s Office last Thursday, it was Egbetokun who first announced the goodies when he told the governor of his plans to establish more police stations, Area Commands and Mobile Police Squadron in the state to commensurate with its rapid industrialisation.

    The IGP, who also appreciated the massive infrastructural development going on in the state, told the governor: “I can see that our state has been turned around. In the last three days that I have been around, I hovered over the major towns in the state, and I could see massive developments going on. I want to thank you for the infrastructural developments that are going on across the state. The development is even; I can see that government projects are evenly distributed.

    “And the least we can do as the police is to support you. We also have to pay attention to even provision of security to Ogun State because the infrastructural development going on here is going to massively attract people from other states to Ogun. I can see the migration of people into Ogun State increasing every day because of the development in the state and again because of the peace of the state. Ogun State is one of the most peaceful states in Nigeria. And of course, the fasted growing state in Nigeria.

    “All these developments coming to Ogun State that his Excellency is undertaking have a burden on security. We recognise that, and the police leadership has decided to pay the necessary attention to the state. We are going to create more police stations to match the development that is going on in the state. We will establish more area commands. We are going to bring additional Mobile Police Squadron into Ogun State.  

    “We must do everything to secure this state because Ogun State is very important to Nigeria. It, no doubt, is the industrial capital of this country, and we can’t do less than paying the necessary attention to the state. So, in terms of security, we are going to do the best that is needed for the state.”

    The IGP, who said he gets reports from the state Commissioner of Police daily, noted that the vision of the police leadership under his watch has materialised with pursuit of professionalism, compliance with the rule of law, and a people-friendly approach to policing. His ultimate aim, he further noted, is to have a force well-equipped to face the evolving nature of crime. Such a transformation required the  support of state governments and Nigerians. Thus, the IGP did not seek just support but pleaded for it.

    “Your Excellency, I want to share the policing vision of the police leadership with you. I came into the office of the IGP with a vision to emplace a professionally competent police force. We intend to change the policing narrative of this country for the better. We need the police force that is service driven, that is the rule of law compliant, and that is people friendly. We need a police force that would be so well-positioned to respond appropriately and adequately to the dynamics of crimes in our society. We can not achieve this without the support of state governments. We can not achieve this without the support of the people of Nigeria. So, I’m here not to ask for your support because you have been giving that support but to plead that you don’t get tired of supporting the police,” Egbetokun said.

    Welcoming the IGP, Abiodun expressed deep appreciation for the visit, recognising the privilege of having a son of Ogun State leading the Nigeria Police Force for the first time. He said his administration took pride in the IGP’s exceptional leadership, reflecting intelligence, capacity, and a profound sense of duty. The governor commended the strategic redesigning of operational strategies and administrative policies, driven by purposeful leadership and capacity enhancement. He also noted the IGP’s commitment to positive police-citizen relations, which has elevated trust and redefined the police force.

    Abiodun said: “I feel very privileged that it is under my watch as governor that we have an Ogun State son as the IGP. On behalf of the entire government and the people of this great state, I extend my heartfelt pride as you continue to excel in steering the Nigeria Police Force with commendable efficiency over the past 10 months.

    Read Also: Ogun judiciary staff suspends strike

    “Your public demeanour, profound insight, and strategic orientation in policing vividly reflect the intellect and capacity of a top tier, well-educated officer, and a gentleman, marked by an admirable sense of duty and patriotism. You have been very deliberate and intentional in the systematic redesigning of the operational strategies administrative policies of the Nigeria Police Force driven by purposeful leadership and capacity enhancement. The impactful motivation you consistently instil in your personnel through timely promotions and incentives has undeniable enhanced their performance and dedication. As an expert in peace and public studies, you have exemplified the essence of positive police/civil relations, elevating the trust of Nigerians in the police force by addressing misconduct by decisive actions.”

    Abiodun announced the donation of 25 new patrol vehicles to the police, alongside a state-of-the-art surveillance drone. He recalled that in the last one and half years, over 100 vehicles, 100 motor bikes and more than 300 units of walkie talkies had been donated to security agencies along with many other initiatives by his government. These initiatives have ensured that Ogun remains one of the most peaceful states in the country.

    “I am pleased to report that Ogun State remains steadfast in fulfilling its constitutional mandate to prioritise the security and welfare of the citizens. We’ve done this with the active effort underway to meet our thought on state police discourse as agreed at the National Economic Council of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Ogun State stands among the forerunners in fostering exceptional inter-agency cooperation. This has contributed significantly to our robust security landscape. This concerted effort is integral to our mission of establishing Ogun State as a beacon of economic growth and ensuring the well-being of every inhabitant.

    “This is because ensuring security and safety for people and businesses is very crucial to attracting investment and promoting economic growth. This is even more critical as we work towards achieving our mission of promoting and sustaining Ogun State as the fasted growing economy in Nigeria and maximising the potential of every citizens and residents of the state in everywhere they want to. Consequently, the issue of security is one that we take extremely seriously as a sub-national.

    “Towards ensuring peace in the state, we continue to strengthen our support through our already established trust fund by continuous procurement of relevant gadgets, including drones. We will continue to augment the allowances and living conditions of our security personnel to motivate them and enhance security and peace in the state. The state will continue to fund and engage our various security outfits, including our own Amotekun with community leaders and residents, to implement effective strategies that have resulted significantly in the reduction of crimes across the state.

    “Our administration is committed to ensuring that every resident can live in a secure and peaceful environment. These efforts have made Ogun State an investor destination of choice and contributed to job creation,” he said.

    Amid this landscape of security reinforcement, an autonomous drone was launched by the IGP. Equipped with night vision and infrared capabilities, the new drone marks a significant upgrade for Ogun. Abiodun explained that the drone is aimed at safeguarding the lives of residents and travellers, particularly along the vulnerable Lagos-Ibadan Expressway. He acknowledged collaborative efforts among the police commands of Lagos, Ogun, and Oyo states, which he noted, had already reduced crime levels, but the deployment of surveillance technology would ensure an even quicker response time and deterrence.

    The drone would be continuously monitored by a central station staffed by trained personnel, allowing for immediate identification and apprehension of miscreants.This initiative was just another example of the state’s support for the police force.

    Abiodun said: “The drone is one of the initiative of the Ogun State government to continue to ensure that we protect the lives of those who are living in the state or those who are passing through it. One of the reasons we took the decision to acquire this drone was because of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, which remains one of our most vulnerable points for those that are travelling through Ogun State, being the gateway to the rest of the country and the West African sub-region. The collaborative efforts of the Lagos State Police Command, Ogun State Police Command, and the Oyo State Police Command have significantly reduced the level of crime and criminal activities on that road alongside other law enforcement agencies. But we believe that with the deployment of this kind of technology, it will allow for shorter response time when there is an incident like we experienced in the past when miscreants kidnapped innocent victims on that road and run into nearby bushes.

    “We believe that with this kind of surveillance equipment, which is continuously being monitored from a central monitoring station by personnel of police, DSS, civil defence, who have been trained for weeks, who are constantly monitoring these activities, it will make for rapid response time in ensuring that either this is discouraged or after it happens, the miscreants can be immediately identified and brought to book. Initiative to support the police.”

    Egbetokun said the surveillance drone provide invaluable support in various operational aspects by granting the police a tactical advantage and enabling swift responses to criminal activities. He expressed the hope that other governors would follow suit, emulating the Ogun example.

    There is no doubt that Abiodun always strives to create a safe and secure haven, leading to increased investments and job creation opportunities in the Gateway State, a source said.

    • Adeniran is Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to Ogun State Governor,  Prince Dapo Abiodun.
  • Quirks, knots of estate planning in blended families

    Quirks, knots of estate planning in blended families

    By Bukola Seun-Oloruntuga

    Estate planning for blended families presents a unique set of challenges, often requiring careful consideration and tailored solutions to address the complexities that arise from the intersection of various family dynamics.

    Let me illustrate these challenges and their solutions with a hypothetical story.

    As the family came together through the union of Amaka and Kunle, both bringing children from previous marriages, the complexities of their unique family structure became apparent during the estate planning process.

    Kunle, having significant pre-existing assets, and Amaka, with her estate, encountered the challenge of determining how to distribute their wealth among their children.

    This challenge highlighted the need for transparent communication and bespoke planning to address the financial well-being of their new family.

    Expectations from each set of children added another layer of complexity.

    Kunle’s children expected they would inherit his wealth, while Amaka’s children hoped to secure their mother’s assets.

    The potential for resentment and conflict among the siblings underscored the importance of clear communication and transparent planning.

    Striking a balance between the financial needs of the surviving spouse and the desire to leave a legacy for all children presented yet another dilemma.

    Read Also: Tinubu approves routing of 20% palliatives through religious, traditional leaders

    The Smiths also grappled with providing for the surviving spouse and ensuring their estate plan included all their children.

    Additionally, the legal rights of stepchildren, who might not have automatic inheritance rights without a legally binding estate plan, raised concerns.

    To address these challenges, the Smiths sought professional help to develop a comprehensive plan.

    This plan included a well-structured will and trust that clearly outlined the distribution of their assets, open and honest communication with all family members to manage expectations, provisions for the surviving spouse while safeguarding the inheritances of each set of children, and legal mechanisms to ensure stepchildren had defined rights to inherit.

    Indeed, managing fair distribution among beneficiaries in a blended family requires a nuanced approach, and trusts and other estate planning mechanisms can play a crucial role in achieving this balance.

    Let’s explore some of the ways to use these tools.

    In a blended family, trust can help to specify asset distribution among surviving spouses and children from different marriages.

    For instance, a parent may create an irrevocable trust designating assets for the benefit of their biological children, safeguarding these assets from the claims of the surviving spouse’s beneficiaries.

    Another mechanism is the limited liability company.

    LLCs can hold and manage some assets, providing a mechanism for shared control and decision-making among family members.

    This structure will allow for the integration of assets from different sides of the family while offering a platform for open communication.

    The Smiths can also consider specific bequests to ensure that certain sentimental or valuable items go to their intended beneficiaries.

    This is particularly important in blended families, where there might be items of significance to different family members.

    Lastly, we have life insurance policies.

    With a life insurance policy, either spouse can provide financial support for the surviving spouse and children.

    Spouses in a blended family can ensure that the proceeds from their life insurance policies are distributed according to their wishes by thoughtfully designating beneficiaries.

    In conclusion, blended families can create comprehensive estate plans by combining tailored mechanisms that ensure fair distribution and promote family harmony and understanding.

    It is crucial to work with a professional to navigate the complexities and legal intricacies involved in achieving these objectives.

    ● Seun-Oloruntuga, a lawyer who specialises in estate planning, is also a career and executive coach. She can be reached at bso@morecraftlaw.com

  • On menace of thuggery in Bauchi metropolis

    On menace of thuggery in Bauchi metropolis

    By Ahmad Babangida Baba

    SIR: In Bauchi metropolis, the presence of thugs has become an alarming and pervasive issue that threatens the safety, security, and well-being of residents. From intimidating behaviors to acts of violence, the menace of thuggery has instilled fear and unrest in our neighborhoods, undermining the social fabric and impeding progress.

    In Bauchi metropolis, thuggery has far-reaching consequences. Residents live in constant fear of harassment, extortion, and physical harm, leading to a pervasive sense of insecurity and vulnerability. Businesses struggle to operate in an environment plagued by intimidation and coercion, stifling economic growth and investment. Moreover, the presence of thugs erodes trust in local authorities and undermines faith in the rule of law, further exacerbating social tensions and eroding community cohesion.

    It is imperative that urgent action be taken to address the scourge of thuggery in Bauchi metropolis. I call upon the government to prioritize this issue and implement comprehensive strategies to combat thuggery effectively. Government agencies must bolster law enforcement efforts to identify, apprehend and prosecute individuals involved in thuggery. This includes deploying more police officers to patrol high-risk areas, creating a community police, conducting targeted operations to dismantle criminal networks, and implementing intelligence-led strategies to disrupt criminal activities.

    Community engagement and education: Bauchi State government authorities should engage with community leaders, residents and civil society organizations to raise awareness about the negative impacts of thuggery and promote community-based solutions. Education and outreach programs can empower residents to report criminal activities, access support services and work together to create safer neighborhoods.

    Read Also: Tinubu approves routing of 20% palliatives through religious, traditional leaders

    Social intervention programs: Bauchi State government should invest in social intervention programs aimed at addressing the root causes of thuggery, such as poverty, unemployment, and lack of access to education and opportunities. These programs may include job training initiatives, youth empowerment programs, and mental health support services to provide viable alternatives to a life of crime.

    Collaboration with stakeholders: Collaboration between government agencies, law enforcement authorities, community organizations, and civil society is essential to effectively tackle thuggery. By working together in a coordinated manner, stakeholders can pool resources, share information and implement holistic approaches that address the multifaceted nature of the problem.

    In conclusion, the presence of thugs in Bauchi metropolis is a pressing issue that demands immediate attention and decisive action from government authorities. By prioritizing law enforcement, community engagement, social intervention, and collaboration, we can work together to reclaim our neighborhoods from the grip of thuggery and build safer, more resilient communities for all residents. It is time the government heeded the call and take meaningful steps to address this urgent challenge.

    • Ahmad Babangida Baba – Atapoly, Bauchi.

  • Not so, Mr. President, Nigeria must first love her citizens

    Not so, Mr. President, Nigeria must first love her citizens

    By Banji Ojewale

    The security and welfare of the people (of Nigeria) shall be the primary purpose of government— The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria

    In 1976, the military regime of Olusegun Obasanjo sought to stir the patriotic instincts of our young citizens by decreeing the National Pledge into our lives. It must be recited in all Nigerian schools, the junta said. The general’s martial mind given to governing by fiat and force led him through only one route to patriotism: a mental enslavement of the boys and girls through feeding on the pledge would lead, willy-nilly, to their loyalty to the state and its agents and agencies. If they voiced it out many times over the years, their impressionable minds would give way to deeds of loyalty and love for the land, even if they were under an oppressive, objectionable and off-putting government.

    I challenged that position in an article I published in the Daily Times of October 1, 1976. My argument was that the government wasn’t entitled to demand honour from a citizen it didn’t honour. In a society of representative order, a contract was at work whose intrinsic iron-cast rules must be obeyed by both parties, I said. I took a great deal of my submissions from the classical works of Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, three faces of petty-bourgeois philosophy and Karl Marx and Friedrich Engel, the duo who finally deepened the essence of statehood and society as a treaty in which rulers exist at the pleasure of the ruled and not the other way. The state derives its authority and legitimacy from fulfilling an inviolable ‘oath’: to seek, above all other pursuits, the ‘’security and welfare’’ of its citizens. The state doesn’t first ask the people to be loyal to it. The country, through its loving, caring and welfarist drive, would set the pace; then would follow, automatically, a citizenry ready, not only to abide by the good laws of the land, but also to be prepared to lay down their lives in defence of their leaders and the country. Leaders and agents of government, selfless ones, must first love the people, for the latter to desire to appreciatively love the former. It’s very much like the Scriptural insight: “We love him (God), because he first loved us.’’ It’s a binding deal between two consenting associates. Each coadjutor must throw something into the relationship. The state must not be a preying, praetorian parasite; none of the parties must be a spectator and lord of the manor either.

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    But in the Nigerian union, we’ve had a false, flawed and frosted pledge since 1976: I pledge to Nigeria my country. To be faithful, loyal and honest. To serve Nigeria with all my strength. To defend her unity, and uphold her honour and glory. So help me, God.  What’s the pledge asking the country to do here? Where is the place of the state in this pledge? What’s its input? What’s the state offering to deserve these sacrifices from the people? It’s not giving free education and free health to all at all levels. There’s no employment for most of our people. Nor is the state giving the citizens such other basic needs as all-round security, protection for the vulnerable and guarantees to allay our anxieties about the future, immediate or long-term.

    These were concerns that crossed my mind following President Bola Tinubu’s charge to Nigerians as they marked the close of 2024 Ramadan. He pleaded with his compatriots to show more love to their country than they do to others. Tinubu was reported to have “emphasised the need for Nigerians to prioritize the exhibition of love for their country.” The president said: “The resilience and sacrifice that we have shown during these months should be preserved. Be a kind and cheerful giver. We must love our country more than any other country, because that is the only one we have. We must continue to protect the integrity of our government and leadership.”

    Our president didn’t fail in the task of exploiting the occasion to call us to loyalty and nationalism. All those in political authority do so. They seek the abiding partnership and cooperation of the people, both those who voted for them or against them. Once in power after the ballot, the government, whether a coalition or a winner-takes-all one, becomes the father-figure of all. Partisan specks and identities recede and give way for utilitarianism to take charge. They don’t go the path of Muhammadu Buhari, Tinubu’s predecessor, who raised parochialism to scary levels with a strange sharing formula of the ‘spoils of office’. 97% would go to those who electorally swept him into power, with 5% left for those who didn’t.

    But while our leaders can’t be questioned for urging the people to love the fatherland, we’re also legitimately compelled to draw their attention to what comes first in the inexorable dynamics of statehood. We must remind them that they and the people are bonded to a contract undergirded by the Constitution they swore to honour. The document telegraphically states what must be prioritized: the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government.

    We overthrow the Constitution when we ask a people denied their constitutionally guaranteed rights to release their love and loyalty to the state. We can see the result of these deprivations everywhere. Millions of Nigeria’s school-age children are roaming the streets, raising shadow families and feeding the palates of crime godfathers. We have tens of millions of our citizens sliding into extreme poverty, a point where presidential homilies and clerical sermons would amount to gibberish. The atmosphere is further fouled and charged with tension when those calling for patriotism and sacrifice are not promoting ascetic lifestyles required of true leadership. Nigerians don’t see servant-leaders. They see government and its principals and their cronies getting richer than the people they are expected to serve selflessly. They hear of removal of fuel subsidy and the promise of gargantuan savings dropping into government coffers meant to lead to the upgrade of the living standards of the citizens. Instead, there’s more hardship, worsened by a regime of death-carrying palliatives.

    This isn’t ideal government and governance because as John Ruskin, English art critic and writer of the 19th Century said, “The first duty of government is to see that people have food, fuel and clothes. The second, that they have means of moral and intellectual education.”

    These are the needs to be provided Nigerians ahead of asking us to give our love and loyalty. To be sure, love isn’t unconditional in relationships. When the governed are cherished by their governor, leaders wouldn’t labour over long speeches and motivational talk and radio-TV jingles to persuade us to sacrifice for the land in moments of national crisis.

    • Ojewale is a writer and journalist in Ota, Ogun State, Nigeria.

  • That unfortunate invasion of Agodi secretariat

    That unfortunate invasion of Agodi secretariat

    By Adewuyi Adegbite

    The invasion of the Oyo State Government Secretariat, Agodi, by some hooded disgruntled elements under the aegis of one of the Yoruba liberation movements on Saturday, April 13th,  is condemnable and unfortunate. The armed hoodlums invaded the secretariat, overpowered the security men attached to the place and lowered the flag of the Federal Republic of Nigeria at the state House of Assembly complex and replaced it with their own Yoruba Democratic Republic flag.

    When one considers the effrontery of these misguided elements, one would see them as confused people, because what they did was a treasonable. The possibility that they didn’t know the implications is a conjecture. It is a fact that those who did this before have never been successful, hence the likelihood that they lacked a sense of history is another thing; or they just wanted to call attention to themselves – attention that will lead them to perdition.

    The question is how could a set of rag tag fighters with a few guns, cutlasses and charms  take over the government in Ibadan and believed they had declared secession from Nigeria? These people have to be pitied by all right thinking persons.  One of the reasons for the birth of Yoruba separatist movement is the domination of the nation by a section of the country. Today, power has shifted to Yoruba land and as a result, the agitation has reduced to bare minimum. The leaders of Yoruba separatist movements like Professor Banji Akintoye and Chief Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Igboho, who were exiled have returned home and working towards how the present Federal Government would assuage the feelings of the separatist movements in all corners of the nation through inclusive governance. It is  disgusting that this happened when a Yoruba man is the president of the Federal Republic. If these people were thinking right, they should have employed peaceful means to present their grievances to the government instead of resorting to armed insurrection. Yoruba leaders including traditional rulers, separatist movements leaders and majority of Yoruba people have  condemned the action of the miscreants and shown they are on their own.

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    Until few years ago, when anti-social elements like herdsmen, kidnappers and bandits invaded Yoruba land and drew the hands of the clock of peace of the region back, the region was the most peaceful and thriving. Shall we say these few miscreants want to throw the region into turmoil? It is heartwarming that the insurrection has been defeated and the miscreants are cooling their heads in detention waiting for trial , the outcome of which would serve as deterrent to others in their shoes.

    Meanwhile, it is high time the government of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu rose up to the occasion as one of the  most prepared presidents Nigeria has had by implementing policies that would rekindle the love of the nation in the consciousness of many Nigerians who have lost hope in their fatherland. Aside the seeming domination by a section of the country, which was real during the immediate past administration, lack of opportunities to achieve one’s potentials in Nigeria as experienced by many youths, cluelessness on the part of leaders at all levels to turn things around, insecurity of lives and property, disillusion about what the future holds and many more are at the root of self-determination movements or separatist groups troubling the peace of the nation.

    If the truth is to be told, Nigerians are passing through excruciating agony due to the economic policies of the present government, which in any way is not its making. The past administrations have sent the nation into Siberia economically through all sorts of policy summersaults, including over-borrowing from lender nations and international financial institutions, which has thrown Nigeria into a financial mess.  The effects of the years of economic catastrophe is now rearing their ugly heads when a go-getter assumed the mantle of leadership. There is no doubt that rebranding the economy as Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu is doing would be accompanied by hardship, but the policies in this wise should be with human face, knowing full well that the masses bearing the brunt of years of economic brigandage are not the creators of the mess. 

    For promising youths and few adults seen in the video of the Ibadan invasion, including a lady, to bite the bullet the way they did, knowing full well the implications of their action, show how far a disgruntled people can go. I would advise the government of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu that, despite the fact that the action of these miscreants is a test of statesmanship for him as national leader, he should before starting their trial send them to a psychiatrist home to ascertain their sanity. No sane person should have carried out such action.

    • Adewuyi Adegbite writes from ayekooto05@gmail.com

  • When governors act like messiahs

    When governors act like messiahs

    By Mustapha Baba Azare

    SIR: It is very unfortunate that today, Nigeria’s governors are competing with each other in embellishing their cities with construction of multi-billion naira flyover bridges that are said to be meant to tame the menace of traffic congestions in commercial cities. This apparent infrastructural revolution alienates many of the governors from making right decisions, prioritising greatly desired developmental projects and delivering much-needed dividends of democracy for the masses.

    Banditry, climate crisis and other insecurities have pushed thousands of women into pathetic state of widowhood in the northern part of the country and also hindered most farmers from accessing their farms. Women and girls are estimated as a half of the country’s population;. so, imagine when they are vulnerable, weak and idle due to the loss of their spouses who are responsible for their daily basic needs. Instead of wasting away funds on frivolous projects and policies, it is imperative for governors to ensure better life for these weak and helpless women and make them productive citizens in their communities and into the future.

    To be frank, feminisation of poverty has something to do with gender disparity, discrimination against women in the labor market, economic inequality and political exclusion. Pervasive poverty must be grappled with at the grassroots and state governors have fair share of the responsibility to ameliorate sufferings of citizens and stimulate socio-economic development by empowering women and girls.

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    Governors should remember that there are millions of starving and despairing out-of-school children roaming the streets of the northern region and begging food to survive. Some of them are orphans. I am certain that when these children grow up they will be asking about what today’s leaders did or didn’t do in building their future. In forthcoming years, today’s leaders will either be revered or cursed on account of either indelible achievements or irresponsibility when they will be lying in their graves. Therefore, governors are expected to use their golden opportunity they have to do their part in improving the lives of millions of the country’s out-of-school children in their states, so they will be fondly remembered and prayed for when they’re no more.

    Amidst construction of flyovers bridges, there are millions of retirees and their families facing untold plight as a result of non-payment of their benefits for many months or years. These retired civil servants, who dedicated their lives to serving their states and are mostly bedridden, hinge their lives on the pension. Non-payment of entitlements worsens their health challenges, resulting in the demise of many.

    With afore-mentioned conundrums and cumbersome challenges confronting the masses and vulnerable citizens, governors are expected to shift their attention from competition over construction of unwarranted infrastructure such as flyovers and beautification of cities and focus on human capacity building, improving people’s living standards, quality education, quality healthcare for all, job creation and security.

    To build a brighter future for our younger and unborn generations, governors have key roles to play in achievement of Sustainable Development Goals of the UN, particularly from goal 1 to 8. It is disheartening seeing how state governments are turning away from investing in human capacity building. I remember golden words of former President of Malawi, Mrs. Joyce Banda, who once said: “ The seeds of success in every nation on earth are best planted in women and children.”

    Finally, it is incumbent on governors to pull out all the stops and act like God-sent messiahs capable of salvaging democracy in the country encumbered with growing public disillusionment, pessimism and despondency by addressing widespread poverty, its genesis and all its dimensions. The menaces of poverty, severe hunger as well as youth and women unemployment are now raising the alarm over future security of their states. I remember the philosophical words of the former president of South Africa, Nelson Mandela, who said, “ As long as poverty, injustice and gross inequality persist in our world, none of us can truly rest.”

    • Mustapha Baba Azare, Bauchi State.