The Nation Newspaper

Category: Niger delta

  • Set up panel to probe outgoing council chairmen, Fubara told

    Set up panel to probe outgoing council chairmen, Fubara told

    Rivers Development Foundation (RiDeF) has called on Rivers Governor Siminalayi Fubara to probe the outgoing Local Government Chairmen..

    The group, in a statement by its President Dr. Rejoice Okoli, pointed out that there were allegations of corruption and gross misconduct against some of the outgoing council bosses.

    RiDeF also highlighted alleged mismanagement of internally generated revenues (IGR) by many of the local government chairmen who “claim to be loyal to powers in Abuja and not the people of Rivers State.”

    The group urged Governor Fubara to promptly establish a panel to probe the outgoing Local Government Chairmen.

    It said: “The Rivers Development Foundation (RiDeF) wishes to call the attention of His Excellency, Governor Siminalayi Fubara to the serious allegations of corruption, misappropriation, and gross misconduct against some of the outgoing Local Government Chairmen in the state,” the statement said.

    “The allegations of abuse of office and embezzlement are indeed weighty and of utmost concern to the people of Rivers. There is credible information that the outgoing LG Chairmen have been looting the treasury and stealing government properties in the last few months. Also, the internally generated revenues (IGR) have also been squandered by many of them who claim to be loyal to powers in Abuja and not the people of Rivers State.

    “These allegations should be looked into, and His Excellency should set up a panel to probe the outgoing council bosses in order to get justice for the people of Rivers.

    “Most of the outgoing Local Government Chairmen haven’t inaugurated a single project since assuming office despite the huge allocations they receive from the state treasury and internally generated revenues. They pocketed the resources meant for the development of their councils and shared the leftovers among their cronies and loyalists of their Abuja godfather.

    “The rate of nepotism, cronyism, and favoritism in the local governments under the outgoing council bosses is also alarming. They skewed all the strategic appointments to favor their cronies and allies of their political godfather in Abuja, disregarding the principles of inclusion, fairness, and justice.

    “There are also allegations of ghost workers, budget-padding, racketeering, and insubordination to the government and people of Rivers State amongst others against the outgoing Local Government Chairmen.

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    “Worse still, some of the outgoing council bosses violated their oath of office and betrayed the trust of the people by engaging in dangerous plots to destabilize the state for their selfish gains. Their actions not only undermined the democratic process but also threatened the safety and security of citizens.

    “Therefore, we urge the Governor to immediately constitute a panel to probe the outgoing Local Government Chairmen. The probe would not only serve as a deterrent to future council bosses but also prove to Rivers people that His Excellency has zero tolerance for corruption and prioritizes their well-being and safety.

    “Finally, we commend Governor Siminalayi Fubara for his prudent management of resources and provision of good governance in the state. His performance so far is beyond expectations and worthy of emulation.”

  • HYPREP addresses Ogoniland socio- ecological challenges

    HYPREP addresses Ogoniland socio- ecological challenges

    The Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) is currently focused on addressing the socio-ecological challenges of hydrocarbon pollution in Ogoniland.

    The project aims to design and implement a program to tackle these issues.

    HYPREP’s project coordinator, Prof. Nenibarini Zabbey, emphasised in a press statement that for a region whose primary livelihood depends on fertile soil and flourishing river systems, it is essential to restore degraded environments to recover and sustain biodiversity.

    This is also crucial for improving agricultural productivity and enhancing communities’ livelihoods. The future of the Ogonis and the wider Niger Delta largely depends on the condition of their land.

    He said HYPREP joins the global community in celebrating its collective efforts towards a greener, healthier planet. This year’s World Environment Day with the theme: “Our land. Our future: land restoration, desertification, and drought resilience’’ Resonates deeply with HYPREP’s mission and ongoing efforts and achievements in Ogoniland and the wider Niger Delta region.

    Read Also: Activists seek implementation of UNEP report on Ogoniland

    According to the coordinator, “The 2024 World Environment Day provides an opportunity to reflect, design, and facilitate approaches to protect our commonwealth – land, restore degraded ones, and discourage human activities that compromise the integrity of the environment and biodiversity.

    “HYPREP is equipped with the necessary resources and strategically positioned to lead this generation to undertake this task decisively. Within the context of Ogoniland and the wider Niger Delta, protecting and restoring the land is multifaceted. We urge stakeholders to take definite stands to

    “Prevent oil pollution occasioned by oil theft, vandalism, and artisanal refining. Prioritize oil infrastructure maintenance and monitoring to protect the environment.”

    He said there is a need to develop citizens’ capacity to pursue alternative and sustainable livelihoods, which will dissuade local communities from engaging in unethical environmental acts. 

    HYPREP reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the remediation and restoration of Ogoniland.

  • Ringing endorsement for the Asue/Ogie ticket

    Ringing endorsement for the Asue/Ogie ticket

    By Michael Ovienmhada

    Once every 70-80 years approximately, the periodic Halley’s Comet blazes a truly spectacular trail across the heavens in a majestic confluence of power and glory that portends uncommon brilliance.

    Just such a confluence can be personified in one person, with duty, on a mission to shape and change things beyond seasons in timeless, fundamental ways.

    Over 70 years ago, we had all these qualities come together in one man, Chief Jeremiah Obafemi Awolowo.

    He was a man on a mission to tell and to show us that possibilities existed which most others could not wrap their heads around. He looked at the Western Region, and he saw the wealth of extensive arable land and flowing waters where others simply saw bush.

    He looked at the teeming population as far as his eyes could see. In his boundless imagination, he thought to himself—-“if only I could put these men and women to work, nothing would be beyond our reach as a people.” He did. Western Region was first in everything. As the world went at the time, if the Western Region were a country, it would have been rated a First World nation. Awo’s work was a gift—one that keeps on giving.

    In Edo State today as things stand, a candidate in the image of Awo may be here with us. I had a one-hour meeting with him in December 2023, as a friend of mine for 30 years introduced me to Asue Ighodalo, his friend of 50 years. Our paths had never crossed even though his younger brother, Ituah, had also been my friend for 38 years.

    It was quite easy to immediately recognize that we would be fortunate as a State to have Asue Ighodalo as our horse in the race for Governor. Beyond great upbringing, great education, and great leadership skills, this man brings a certain level of camaraderie to the room, an attribute which is rarely found in people like him whose work has been crowned with outstanding achievements.

    I found myself sitting in a meeting with the Comet Haley of our time as we finished each other’s sentences. There was hardly any daylight in our ideas and concepts and possibilities of what could be done with the vast arable land in Edo State that stands at 19,000 sq km, an expectant population of 5.2 million people, and 3 million thick vibrant youth population who yearn for jobs, and a safe and secure State where they can express themselves and reach for the moon.

    Asue Ighodalo had no doubt in his mind that the best way to grow our IGR from a paltry N48 Billion a year to N1Trillion a year would be in the ability of the State to establish a connection between man, machinery and land.

    When I heard him speak, at one point, I stopped him and I said—“Man, you are almost as smart as I am!” He replied, “That’s arrogant.”

    We had a good laugh as our mutual friend interjected—- “I told you, you would love his brilliance. You both think alike.”

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    I left the meeting saying to myself, “Hey Meekey, you made a promise to ‘Esan Okpa,’ an Esan Cultural Group. You told them that if you found a candidate of superior quality, intelligence and firepower, you would gracefully bow out of the race and work to ensure that the candidate makes it to the finish line.”

    In fulfillment of that promise, I am today making a happy decision to shine a spotlight on a candidate of very high quality, great pedigree, and first class education, in the Edo Gubernatorial race for 2024.

    In assessing the three major candidates in the Edo Governorship race, it is clear beyond a shadow of a doubt that—Heads and Shoulders, he is without peer.

    At a time like this, when we are fortunate to be presented with a candidate of transcendental credentials, what would be ground-breaking is—-great minds coming together to create a grand coalition across parties. It is my proposition that 2024 should be a negotiated compromise. Let all the major parties come together. Let them bring their best men and women for consideration into the different commissionerships and parastatals and let us speak with one voice and shoo in this uncommon aspirant at the top of the ticket.

    Add to that the selection of a gentleman, loyal Party man, a man focused and knowledgeable in administration with an unbroken stint in government since the beginning of the current political dispensation in Osarodion Ogie, and Edo State will undoubtedly emerge as the State with the greatest potential to be an insurmountable number one as history has ever assembled.

    Oshiomhole needs to huddle with Igbinedion, Dan Orbih and Obaseki in a mini conference of Edo elders for the sake of the future of Edo peoples.

    It’s time to make a deal.

    Let’s put our best foot forward. Our State is bigger than any combination of parties, personal grudges or interests.

    Politics aside, grudges aside, Obaseki nailed this.

    Without equivocation therefore, I am today endorsing the candidacy of Asue Ighodalo, (Batman) and Osarodion Ogie, (Robin) to be our Pilots for the next four years.

    From one Edo man to another, my friends, I wish you both God speed. God bless Edo State, and may God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

    Michael Ovienmhada

    Author, Poet, Playwright,

    and Public Affairs Commentator.

    omeekey@hotmail.com is a former governorship aspirant. 

  • NBM of Africa donates palliatives, N2m to Ewu-Okuama IDP camp

    NBM of Africa donates palliatives, N2m to Ewu-Okuama IDP camp

    The Neo Black Movement (NBM) of Africa worldwide has donated food items worth millions as palliative to members of Ewu-Okuama Internally Displaced Persons as a fall-out from Okuama crisis.

    The Pan-African group also donated N2m to Okuama community to assist them start-up rebuilding their community destroyed by the Nigerian Army in retaliation to the killing of 17 soldiers on March 14th, 2024.

    National President of the Movement, Olorogun Ese Kakor, who led the delegation commended the Delta State Government led by Sheriff Oborevwori for the level of infrastructure provided at Ewu-Okuama IDP camp at Ughelli South Local Government Area of the state.

    He also called on well-meaning individuals and organisations to emulate NBM Africa gesture and come to the aid of Okuama displaced people, noting that with what he saw at the Ewu-Okuama IDP Camp, Delta State government alone can’t manage the humanitarian crisis.

    Olorogun Kakor, before presenting the food items and the N2million cheque to the Chairman of Ewu-Okuama IDP Management Committee, Mr Abraham Ogbodo, requested the members of NBM of Africa and official of the camp to sing the new national anthem, “Nigeria we hail thee.”

    The NBM of Africa President said: “We want to appreciate the Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori for setting up this IDP Camp at Ewu-Urhobo to shelter our people from Okuama, the facilities we saw here are commendable for a camp.

    “We also thank the Ewu-Okuama Internally Displaced Persons Management Committee for the great job they are doing and we want to urge them not to relent in the good work, stressing that in no distant time, many Deltans and Nigerians will come to offer their support.

    “As you may know, the primary aim of NBM of Africa is to carry out humanitarian services wherever there is a need, so, we have come today to offer these items and money to alleviate the suffering of our Okuama people.

    “In the 2021 flood that ravaged many states across the country, NBM of Africa donated palliatives to 13 states. This we do any where in the world that you find out members and that is what we have come here to do, to put smile on the faces of our people.

    “From what we saw in the camp today, we have over 200 displaced women and children that urgently need assistance, so, we brought 500 tubers of yam, 400 (5kg) bags of rice, 200 (5kg) bags beans and 3 big bags of onions, I think this will go along way in providing succour the Okuama people.

    “I am also using this opportunity to appeal to governmental and none governmental organizations to also provide palliatives to this IDP Camp at Ewu-Urhobo and to Okuama people to help them rebuild and start live again.

    ‘’We are calling of the United Nation Development Program, UNDP and other international agencies to also focus on Okuama and provide succour, they should not just focus their attention and assistance outside Africa.

    “The Okuama people are primarily subsistence farmers, all their homes and means of livelyhood have been completely destroyed. So, they need assistance to start afresh and go back to their ancestral home.

    Read Also: Dafinone visits Ewu-Okuama IDP camp, assures of continuous support

    “As an organization we are giving Okuama community the sum of N2million as our support to rebuilding of their community, we know this might be small, but we are setting the pace for others to follow.”

    He also promised to keep in constant touch with Ewu-Okuama IDP Management Committee and when there is more fund they will come back.

     Ogbodo thanked the Neo Black Movement of Africa for the gesture, noting that their intervention will go along way in boosting what the Camp is providing.

    He also called on well meaning individuals, international and cooperate organisations to rally round and support the people of Okuama by emulating the good gestures of NBM or Africa.

    He noted that the level of devastations and destruction visited on Okuama is not what the Delta State Government can handle alone but need international help. 

  • Propaganda, lies against Ighodalo won’t work-Edo Majority Leader 

    Propaganda, lies against Ighodalo won’t work-Edo Majority Leader 

    Edo Assembly Majority Leader, Hon Charity Aiguobarueghian, who represents Ovia North East 1, in believes Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate Asue Ighodalo, has all it takes to take Edo to the Promised Land. He speaks with journalists on how the candidate will secure the support of voters among others. Excerpts: 

    Are you worried by the large amount of propaganda and lies against your candidate, Dr Asue Ighodalo, and the PDP by the opposition?

    I am not worried at all. The reason is because Edo people are very smart voters. If you look at our trajectory all the time, Edo voters have always been at the forefront of progressive voting, so they know how to sieve this information and determine the wheat from the chaff. They also know how to decipher the truth from lies. Our people are very academically mobile and socially topnotch. They know how to do the right thing and all these things that people are peddling, which are palpably false, there is no one in Edo, who will vote for their propaganda. I can assure you of that because they know what is true and what is not true. And they are going to pursue that which is right and at the end of the election you will call me back and say Honourable you said so. See, wetin we gain if we vote APC? I am asking, wetin we gain if we vote APC? Nothing but hunger, hardship, insecurity, high inflation, misery. How much is a bag of garri today? What of rice, beans and other food stuff? How much is a litre of petrol? How much is the Naira to a Dollar? How much is minimum wage? So, their lies and propaganda won’t work in Edo State.

    So, let them continue with their propaganda and lies. They can’t market their candidate because he is too dull to govern Edo State. He won the senate seat because of a protest vote by the people to maintain the rotation policy in Esan land. Not that he was the brightest. That was why Oshiomhole supported somebody else initially. They know Monday Okpebholo is not a governor material, they know. They know he has nothing to offer, they know. Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu and the leaders of the party are just puppeteers, and Monday is the puppet. They have nothing to tell Edo people, so they have made propaganda and lying their official campaign policy, they will fail. If you go to the market women, the clergy and the civil servants, they will laugh and tell you that they are not perturbed by those falsehoods because they know them before and that these things are verifiable facts. I was at the NBA Office one day, behind the High Court in Benin and a colleague was shouting at the top of his voice that “tell me one thing that Obaseki has done?” And I just looked at the Secretariat Building that was looking at him directly and which he could also see and I said “Life must be very difficult for the blind” and he took offense that I was insulting him. How could you see such a thing and say tell me one thing? He said one and he was looking at four.  He didn’t say 10. So, the people that were there started laughing at him. He made a fool of himself. People may not be talking but they know what is going on. Is it the civil servants who hear that in Anambra State here, people are protesting the implementation of N30,000 minimum wage, but have just received their own alert of N70,000 minimum wage? Will they forget that?  Or are you saying that they don’t hear when people are saying that the commonwealth of Edo State would be used to care for party leaders? They know. 

    They know that the opposition APC has nothing to offer. Have you heard Monday Okpebholo saying he would do this or that publicly to people?They know that the only way for the opposition to get to Government House is by federal might. And they also know that the Edo in us will come out and say Edo no be Lagos. Edo no be Abuja. Federal might will not work here because our people are among the most enlightened people. Our people are upwardly mobile people. When people were blaming Edo people for going abroad, I said no, it is in our character to seek what is best for us because our people are very enlightened. Nobody will tell an Edo man today that he should leave the comfort that PDP is providing at the sub-national level here and go and embrace the suffering that is at the national level. So, we are poised to win and we are going to win very big. Both in Edo South, Central and the North. We are going to win very big, you will be surprised.

    But they have big names in all these places you mentioned. That must be of concern to you.

    I tell you this very responsibly, they are sharing Edo State to warlords, is it not one man, one vote? No matter who is anywhere, you have just one vote. The last general election told us that the Edo person does not look at any person. In local parlance, they say “we no dey look Uche face.” We don’t look at anybody before we vote. We vote according to our conscience and according to our conviction.  The last time, Obi was not here and he was not an Edo man; but our people were convinced that he was the better candidate out of the top three that contested for the Presidency. And he won overwhelmingly. He won so much so that the people who rode on his tide are senators and House of Reps members today. Some of them were not even known by the voters. So, that is how the Edo man behaves. If he believes in one thing, he takes it up from there and takes it higher. They didn’t just vote for the Labour Party, they followed it up and ensured that those votes counted. This time, the same fervour, strength and conviction that drove the Obi participation in the presidency is what is driving Dr Asue Ighodalo. Look at the caps that are being distributed by persons who are not even politicians; our people are bringing out their hard earned money in this hard economy to print caps and distribute to others as a totem of support for Asue Ighodalo. Could Ighodalo have been able to do half of the caps that are in circulation? Somebody who used his money to do caps, will he not vote on the day of election? Or somebody who accepted a cap from you and put on his own head, you know what that means? He has become a mobile advert. He is now advertising the product on his own head. I don’t know if you understand the connotation of putting something on the head and he is carrying it everywhere, letting people know that this is where I am. And by doing so he is also preaching the gospel. The mistake politicians make is that they think they are the controllers of what the outcome of voting would be. And there is nothing farther from the truth.

    The defections must be worrisome to you. Aren’t they?

    The defections are both ways. It is not as if PDP is the only party hit by defection. The other parties are equally losing members to the PDP massively.  Yes, we need everyone.  We  don’t want anyone to leave. But this is a matter of choice and personal decisions by adults. However, I want you to know that the bulk of the majority of our voters are non-partisan. They don’t care about political parties, they care about the personality and the individual involved. And today, what is going for the PDP is that Asue Ighodalo’s governorship project is an Edo Project. And what is going for us is the excellence of the candidature of the PDP. We have the best candidate. From the primary to the moment. We had the best and most transparent primary election ever conducted in party politics. Some days before the primary, the venue was made known. I challenge the APC to tell us the venue of their primary. The delegates’ names were published in national newspapers ward by ward.  So, on the day of election the delegates were gathered in a very conducive place, the Ogbe Hard Court under the full glare of national media houses to ensure that what was going on in Edo was not hidden to anybody.  Everything was done in the open. Both voting, counting and announcement of results were all in broad daylight. It wasn’t anything like let’s wait for night when anything could have happened. The winner won, and losers lost. It was that energy of rightness and legitimacy that has been driving Dr Asue Ighodalo’s campaign and his followership has been massive.

  • Dafinone visits Ewu-Okuama IDP camp, assures of continuous support

    Dafinone visits Ewu-Okuama IDP camp, assures of continuous support

    Senator Ede Dafinone (Delta Central) at the weekend visited the Ewu-Okuama Internal Displaced Persons, IDP camp, in Ewu Ughelli North local government area of Delta State. 

    Dafinone, who arrived at the camp accompanied by the monarch of the Ewu-Urhobo Kingdom, His Royal Majesty,  Clement Ikolo Oghenerukvwe, assured the people of Okuama of his continuous support in ensuring that they are fully settled in their ancestral land.

    The Delta Central lawmaker, who was on a working visit to ascertain the level of assistance at the Ewu Okuama IDP Camp, was received by Mr Abraham Ogbodo, Former Editor of Guardian Newspaper and Chairman of Ewu-Okuama IDP Management Committee and his team.

    Ogbodo took the Senator and King around the camp, explaining the struggles the displaced people face daily. 

    “Though we are grateful for the response from the State Government and individuals, what we are getting is over 500 internally Displaced persons, while the camp can only accommodate 300.

     “As of today we have 422 Okuama IDPs in the camp, the facilities are stretched, and the people need more support from the governments at all levels and good-spirited donors,” Ogbodo said.  

    Dafinone while addressing newsmen after a tour of the camp, acknowledged the challenges faced by the Camp managers. 

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    He praised the team for the work being done. “I must commend the camp management, they have excellent plans in place to help the people,” the Senator said.

    The Senator discussed the specific issues raised during his visit. “We looked at medical care, camp capacity, food supplies and accommodations. Plans are being made to improve on all of these areas,” he noted. 

    Dafinone also brought up discussions around economic rehabilitation and skill-building programs at the camp. “Helping the people become self-sufficient again is very important for the future,” the Senator stated.

    When asked about any noticeable shortcomings in the running of the Camp, the Senator had only praise. “I did not see any issues that were not already being addressed. The camp team has everything under control,” he responded.

    The Delta Central Senator promised to take the feedback and concerns from the IDP camp back to relevant government agencies and groups with the aim of securing more support and relief for the displaced people of the Okuama community.

    Some women at the camp lauded the Senator for all his efforts since the crisis arose, according to them; “We are grateful for his concern since our crisis began,” said Mariam Akpodonor, 38. “But we need more aid, especially for our children’s education,” she added.

    Earlier in the day, the Senator was at Senior Pastor Johnmark Ighosotu’s Church, God’s Delight Gospel Assembly, (Aka Free Indeed) to congratulate and celebrate with him on his 10th anniversary in ministry. 

    He also paid condolences visit to the families of the late Kenneth Gbagi, Social Democratic Party, SDP, Governorship candidate in the last election and a former member of the Delta House of Assembly and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Olorogun Engr. Eme Mukoro.

    The Senator’s last stop was the Federal University of Petroleum Resources Efurun, where a 50-bed hostel is under construction. Dafinone who facilitated funding for the project went to inspect the construction progress.

    After assessing the level and quality of work done by the contractor, the Senator said he was pleased with the work so far. “Quality infrastructure is important for our youth. I will continue supporting educational development in our senatorial district to ensure that our people are globally competitive,” Dafinone stated.

  • NNPC E&P Ltd, NOSL celebrate annual spud baby ceremony

    NNPC E&P Ltd, NOSL celebrate annual spud baby ceremony

    Just as the birth of a child symbolises the beginning of a new chapter for a family, the spudding of a well represents the start of a transformative journey for an oil exploration drilling project.

    The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Exploration and Production Ltd (NNPC E&P Ltd.) and Natural Oilfield Services Ltd. (NOSL) organised the third annual Spud Baby event at the Royalty Hotels in Eket, Akwa Ibom State.

    The occasion serves to honour the babies born when the company started spudding oil.

    The Spud Baby initiative celebrates these children, born during periods of significant operational milestones, as symbols of new beginnings and prosperity for both their families and the company. This year, 65 children from Mkpat Enin LGA, Eastern Obolo LGA, and Onna LGA, Akwa Ibom State, were honoured for their special connection to the company’s achievements.

    The event welcomed proud parents, company officials, and esteemed guests, including HRH Ubom Elder Harry John Etetor, the Paramount Ruler of Eastern Obolo LGA; HRH Etebom Etebom Itiat Udo Hundang, Clan Head of Asuna Nung Oku; HRH Moses Udosen Ukpong, Clan Head of Ikpa Ibom in Mkpat Enin LGA; Chief Joshua M. Ayaguong, Village Head of Emeroke II, Eastern Obolo LGA; Mr. Levi Levi, Executive of Eastern Obolo LGA; Mrs. Atim A. Ulo, Director of Primary Health Care in Mkpat Enin LGA, and Mrs. Magaret A. Effiong, Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Uyo.

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    HRH Ubom Elder Harry John Etetor, the Paramount Ruler of Eastern Obolo LGA, expressed gratitude for the initiative on behalf of the beneficiaries, acknowledging its positive impact on the community.

    Recognising that children represent the promise of tomorrow, Mrs. Margaret A. Effiong from the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare said, “Let us, as women, embrace our roles as caretakers of these children and utilise the support provided.”

    In reaffirming their commitment to recognising and supporting the newest generation born during these significant moments, NNPC E&P Ltd. and NOSL continue to foster a legacy of growth, innovation, and positive change.

  • Ighodalo more than ready to lead Edo – Majority Leader

    Ighodalo more than ready to lead Edo – Majority Leader

    Majority Leader of Edo Assembly Hon Charity Aiguobarueghian, a lawyer of over two decades, represents Ovia North East 1. In this interview with a select group of journalists, the lawmaker from Ekiadolor bares his mind on the forthcoming gubernatorial election in the State, asserting that Dr Asue Ighodalo, the candidate of the party will win the election as he is a “fine pikin wey everybody wan carry” by virtue of his vision, competence, capacity, character and compassion. Excerpts:

    How would you describe the ongoing campaign by your party and the candidate, Dr Asue Ighodalo?

    The campaign as instituted by the Asue Ighodalo Campaign Organisation is on course and it has been issue-based through and through. This for me, is a very refreshing development because it is the first time we are seeing it in the political firmament as far as Edo State is concerned. We as a party members, I mean loyalists of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have a lot to say positively and so have downplayed completely any negative campaign. All our efforts towards convincing our people about the candidacy of Dr Asue Ighodalo and the Deputy Governorship candidate, Barr Osarodion Ogie, have all been hinged on positivity and the knowledge of the problems our state is facing and how to have them fixed. The theme of all the messages is that ‘We can do it and we are ready to do it’. In local parlance we say ‘E go do am’. And surely, we can because we in the PDP have the resources and the competence.

    The opposition say your candidate is not a ‘home boy’. Would you say your candidate enjoys wide acceptability to be able to win the election?

    Absolutely! He enjoys wide acceptability and we in the PDP are not surprised. We have a saying in this part of the world that “Pikin wey fine, na everybody wan carry am.”

    Asue Ighodalo na fine pikin and Edo State people are now carrying him. You can see the conviviality, the warmth, happiness and reception everywhere he goes to. This is a man they said is not a ‘Home Boy’; he doesn’t stay in Benin, he doesn’t know buka and all the lies and propaganda. Today it is not only him knowing the bukas oo. I tell you, all the bukas now know him. Everywhere you go it is Asue Ighodalo, Asue Ighodalo, Asue Ighodalo. His popularity is topnotch. And his acceptability is something else. If you go out there now, all the Keke Napep the other time were carrying LP logo, but now all of them are carrying PDP and Ighodalo’s logo. That’s how we measure it here, unlike other places. If we are not going to win, you will know. Like the other time, I knew we were not going to win. You go out nobody is talking about your party and you give people caps, they will tactically refuse it, in your face oooo. This time they are the ones asking you, “Oga una no do cap?” That is to tell you they are buying into it.

    Then our people in the diaspora are for him. If you want to know who will win it is the people in the Diaspora, they are the ones that will drive it first. And look at what is happening in the Diaspora, all the different groups, it is Asue Ighodalo everywhere because he is the only one that has shown competence, capacity and preparedness for the job. They don’t want people who will go and “keep animals in museums”. They don’t want people that are “creating boreholes”. They want the person who understands today’s socio-economic reality and who has a roadmap towards getting it done. The person who can prioritize infrastructure; that has capacity to push development and the person who can appreciate the agrarian advantage we have in Edo to drive industrialization. These things are possible and are on the table already, because Governor Obaseki has laid the foundation. Take a look at the oil palm production which has now made Edo State the number one palm district in Nigeria. So, we are not talking about people whose only mantra is how they will make the leaders in their party happy. We are enlightened people who know what  is right from what is wrong. And for this election, the right  person is Dr Asue Ighodalo.

    So, what would you say set Ighodalo apart from the rest candidates?

    A lot, my brother, a lot indeed.  First, Asue Ighodalo has voluntarily submitted to the Edo people and Nigerians generally, for thorough scrutiny, his birth, including his family, growth, work experience to where he is today. First, let’s talk about his pedigree. His father, Jeremiah Ighodalo, was a trail blazer. In his time, education was not something people know so much about. But he dared it. At a time when people don’t care about education. All you do is grow up in the village, farm and marry, but he left his comfort zone in Ewhohimi just like Asue Ighodalo is leaving his comfort zone in Lagos today because of his compassion for his people. Pa Jeremiah left Ewhohimi and came to Benin and started as a clerk and followed that line to become one of the best in his career to the extent he had to go to England to study for the purpose of specialisation, he did in accounting as at that time. And for you to know the passion, the vision and the royalty that drives him, the man did not entertain any fear in his heart in approaching a Princess of the Ife extraction in the UK. He boldly approached a student leader in the UK and one of the most outspoken female voices you hear about in the Nigerian community as at that time, who then fell in love with a Prince from Ewhohimi and they got married and the product of that union is our amiable Dr Asue Ighodalo. In that regard, you must appreciate the combination of the quality of royal blood combining in one man. So, when you talk about the excellence of the quality you find in Asue Ighodalo, would it have been less? He had some of the best education. 

    He went to the best primary school, he went to King’s College when the place was really King’s College, though it is still King’s College and he made Upper Class. From there to the University of Ibadan where he read Economics. He then proceeded to the London School of Economics to do Law. Thereafter he went to the Nigerian Law School. Can you see the growth of this man? Then he started off in practice, combining Law and Economics, which is Corporate and Commercial Law.  He was actually one of the pioneers in that field just like his father was one of the pioneer chartered accountants. You see this first, first thing has actually been in the family. The mother was the first female Permanent Secretary in Nigeria. The child of the elephant is never weak. Only the best is good enough for the offspring of the Lion.

    Read Also: Edo: Shuaibu loses bid to void Ighodalo’s candidacy

    Just a minute, please, Ighodalo doesn’t suffer from inferiority complex, so he doesn’t attack people. You see  others anytime you give them the microphone the first thing they talk about is Asue. It is a complex problem. I sympathise with them because it is it not an easy task facing a man like Asue, who bestrides the narrow world like a Colossus. They are contesting against an intellectual giant, a social gatherer, a legal juggernaut, a man who in a short space of time has become the political rally point. A man with huge social and emotional capital, who is attached to you not minding your class or background. He is a unifier of sorts. So, the issue as we are pursuing it is about a man whose time has come. Everything about his growth prepared him for today. He values integrity and that is what has given him the opportunity to head and lead so many blue chip organisations. His words are his bounds and he has never been associated with any scandal.

    The Opposition says he is not a politician. Can you vouch that he is prepared for the job?

    Ighodalo has shown by the conduct of his campaign that he is prepared for this job. He is a workaholic, a man that inconveniences himself for the general good.   And he has been doing that with grace. You will never see Dr Asue Ighodalo snap. He will always take everything in his stride, happy with himself, happy with the fact that he has attained that status called the Philosopher King. A man who has learning, compassion and the proper disposition. To crown it all, as the people of ancient city state of Sparta would say, he is also “athletic”. He takes time to take care of his body. That goes to show that he is a man who is deliberate about his life. Nothing happens to him by accident. Everything is meticulously planned, step by step. So, that is the type of character we need as a governor to build a super structure on top of the very solid foundation that our amiable Governor, Godwin Obaseki, has done in Edo State.

  • Civil society groups laud Fubara’s policies

    Civil society groups laud Fubara’s policies

    The Civil Society Situation Room on Matters of Governance in Nigeria has commended Rivers Governor Governor Siminalayi Fubara for what it described as its outstanding commitment to people-oriented reforms, policies and programmes.

    In its one-year assessment report, the group praised Governor Fubara for his dedication to improving Rivers residents, citing numerous achievements in critical areas such as infrastructure development, healthcare, education, and economic empowerment.

    Speaking at a briefing on Tuesday, Hon. Igwe Ude-Umanta said despite inheriting a plethora of challenges, the Governor has displayed visionary leadership, innovative thinking, and a resolute determination to transform the state into a hub of economic growth, social progress, and political stability.

    The group highlighted several initiatives, including the establishment of a participatory budgeting process, support for small-scale entrepreneurs, and investments in sustainable development projects, as examples of Governor Fubara’s people-oriented reforms.

    “In stark contrast to the deleterious impact of previous administrations in Rivers State, the administration of Governor Similaya Fubara has ushered in a new era of hope and renewal, Ushering in a transformative paradigm shift in the state’s governance landscape,” Ude-Umanta said. 

    “Within a remarkably brief span of just one year, Governor Fubara has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the principles of good governance, transparency, and accountability, thereby setting a new standard for administrative excellence.

    “His administration has prioritized a multifaceted agenda, tackling critical sectors such as security, education, healthcare, infrastructure development, and youth empowerment, thereby addressing the long-standing needs and aspirations of the citizenry. 

    “Furthermore, the state’s revenue generation and utilization have been rendered transparent, ensuring accountability and judicious management of public resources. Additionally, local government autonomy has been restored, empowering local authorities to address the specific needs and concerns of their respective communities, thereby fostering grassroots development and inclusivity.

    Read Also: Fubara’s wife seeks crackdown on child labour, trafficking

    “Our comprehensive evaluation of Governor Fubara’s performance reveals that he is steadfastly on course, having made remarkable strides in tackling the complex governance challenges that have long beset Rivers State. It is abundantly clear that Governor Similaya Fubara is not only on track but also excelling in the face of formidable obstacles, and as such, the Civil Society Situation Room on Matters of Governance in Nigeria acknowledges and applauds the profoundly positive impact of his visionary leadership. 

    “We eagerly anticipate continued progress and development under his administration, as his dedication to excellence and good governance continues to inspire hope and transformation in Rivers State. Governor Fubara’s achievements in his first year are a testament to his visionary leadership and commitment to the people of Rivers State. 

    “We, the Civil Society Situation Room on Matters of Governance in Nigeria, commend him for his exceptional performance and encourage him to continue on this trajectory of excellence. The Fubara era is indeed a new dawn for Rivers State, and we are confident that the future holds even greater promise.

    “Notwithstanding that, he inherited a state beset by myriad challenges and in utter disarray, Governor Fubara has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the principles of good governance, transparency, and accountability, thereby setting a new standard for administrative excellence. His impressive achievements in various critical sectors, including security, education, agriculture, youth empowerment, infrastructure development, and healthcare, serve as a resounding testament to his visionary leadership and unwavering dedication to the betterment of Rivers State.

    “The remarkable success achieved in service and project delivery within his first year in office is a stark contrast to the lacklustre performance of some previous administrations, which failed to make a meaningful impact despite having eight years to do so. We, the Civil Society Situation Room on Matters of Governance in Nigeria, hereby commend Governor Fubara for his exceptional performance and encourage him to persist in his pursuit of excellence, as his efforts have ushered in a new era of hope and renewal for Rivers State. The Fubara era indeed marks a new dawn for the state, and we are confident that the future holds even greater promise, as his administration continues to work tirelessly towards a brighter future for all citizens.”

  • Nigeria’s Democracy at 25: The Search for Govt System that Works

    Nigeria’s Democracy at 25: The Search for Govt System that Works

    By Abdussamad Dasuki

    Nigeria will record a milestone in its democratic journey on May 29, as it marks 25 years of uninterrupted democracy – the longest since independence in 1960. While the First Republic lasted for six years, and the Second Republic for four years, the Third Republic was aborted as the Presidential election was annulled.

    As expected, to mark the occasion, drums would be rolled out and dividends of democracy would be reeled out by governments at all levels.

    But beyond this are salient questions: Is Nigeria working? If not, what system of government will make Nigeria work?

    On the first question, many would agree that Nigeria is far from where it ought to be in terms of growth and development despite its enormous potentials. At independence, Nigeria, a country blessed with huge human and natural resources, showed promise of a great nation. Apart from solid, liquid, gaseous minerals buried in the ground, the palm oil, rubber, cocoa,  timber and the groundnut pyramids, all pointed to the fact that the prospects were great. 64 years after, these great expectations are yet to be met as Nigeria is still battling to resolve some of its teething problems.

    On the salient question on whether the presidential system of government is working for Nigeria, there is a unanimity of opinion that the system is not working and its imperfections have slowed the pace of Nigeria’s development strides.  From the huge cost of governance associated with the presidential system, its slow decision making and implementation pace, and the tendency for the emergence of an all-powerful leader who is neither accountable to the people nor their representatives in the legislature, to the inability to change a bad leader until the next election cycle or through a rigorous removal process, the inherent defects of the presidential system are obvious. 

    Taking cognizance of Nigeria’s chequered history of governance, 60 members of the House of Representatives (well over 60 now) introduced three bills mid-February seeking the alteration of the Constitution for a transition to Parliamentary System.

    It’s a great privilege for me to be among the sponsors of the bills, comprising lawmakers across party lines and geopolitical zones. We are motivated by our patriotic desires to make Nigeria work for its people and reclaim its glorious destiny as the Giant of Africa and the pride of the black race.

    We are of the strong view that the best time to hold a national conversation on the system of government that works for Nigeria is now. Gladly, the national conversation has been ignited.

    Conversations are on going on which system works for Nigeria. We have  held consultations with some leaders of thought, former presidents, traditional rulers, and elder statesmen across geopolitical zones. In all the conversations held so far, there is unanimity of opinions that the current system is defective and there is a need to evolve a system that will work for Nigeria. There is also a consensus that such a system must take cognizance of our peculiarity in terms of history, culture and values.

    There are basically three forms of democratic government systems around the world – Presidential, Parliamentary, and the hybrid system, which contains features of both presidential and parliamentary system. Data has however shown that there are more parliamentary forms of government.

    Read Also: Coalition to Nigerians: Expect more dividends of democracy, good governance from Tinubu

    In initiating the bills, we recalled that our founders in their wisdom and in a political atmosphere devoid of compulsion, having considered the interests of their native peoples and their desire to live together in a country where truth and justice reign, where no man is oppressed, and where all citizens live in peace and plenty, adopted the parliamentary System of Government.

    The system lasted till the First Republic was truncated by military coup, following political unrests of the 1960s. The system worked while it lasted, but the six years duration were too short. The collapse of the First Republic led to military rule which lasted for 14 years. The political transition programme of the 1970s midwifed by the military regime introduced the presidential system of government of the American model. The political transition programme culminated in the birth of the Second Republic, which lasted for four years.

    The collapse of the Second Republic began another epoch of military rule which lasted for 15 years, during which a prolonged transition programme within the first 10 years ended in an aborted Third Republic, an interim government of an appointed civilian leader, and another military era that culminated in the birth of the Fourth Republic in 1999.

    25 years of the current democratic dispensation have however shown the shortcomings of the presidential system of government, which include huge cost of governance; excessively powerful presidency wielding fierce influence on the legislature and posing threats to the independence of the judiciary; slow pace of policy formation and implementation; nearly impossible process of removing a bad leader before scheduled elections due to the very rigorous impeachment process; and the fact that cabinet in a presidential system is neither accountable to the people nor to their representatives in parliament, thereby making government less responsive to the resolutions of the legislature and yearnings of the people. 

    Why a home-grown parliamentary system? Firstly, that was the system adopted by our founders, who were consummate nationalists, unhindered in their political thoughts, fearless in the protection of the value system of their various peoples and desirous of building a strong and vibrant nation that meets the aspirations of its citizens. What we are however advocating is a home-grown system that reflects our peculiarities.

    Secondly, parliamentary system is more effective and efficient because it is not inhibited by checks and balances, which sometimes lead to debilitating gridlocks. That was witnessed extensively in the government of President Olusegun Obasanjo when the legislature and the executive were at loggerheads for most part of the administration on policy direction and budgetary approvals. In parliamentary system, because the members of cabinet are chosen from the legislature, there is better coordination between the two arms, therefore making it easier to pass laws and implement them.

    Thirdly, the head of government and the cabinet are responsible and responsive because they are accountable to the parliament comprising the representatives of the people. Example of this accountability to the legislature is the prime minister’s questions in nations practising parliamentary system, during which the prime minister answers questions from members of parliament at a specific day of the week.

    Fourthly, the flexibility associated with the parliamentary system such that the Prime Minister can be removed with a vote of no confidence or a call for early elections, which is more or less a referendum on the government. This helps to guarantee a responsible and responsive government, and prevents the concentration of power in one hand and authoritarianism, unlike the presidential system where such removal can only be through a rigorous impeachment process or in polls held at constitutionally fixed election cycle.

    Another reason for the endorsement of the parliamentary system is the huge costs associated with the presidential system. For example, an enormous sum of over N300 billion was spent by INEC on the 2023 elections, which included Presidential, National Assembly, Governorship and State Assembly elections. The burden of election costs is not limited to government alone. Candidates and political parties also incur enormous electioneering costs because of the series and scope of elections. In a parliamentary system,  nationwide presidential election and state-wide governorship elections are not required because members of parliaments are elected in their various constituencies, and they in turn elect the heads of federal government and the state governments in their respective parliaments, thereby eliminating election costs for that purpose.

    The past 25 years have shown that a major imperfection of the presidential system is the high cost of governance, particularly in the area of personnel costs of political appointees, leaving fewer resources for other critical sectors. Whereas in parliamentary system, the cabinet is picked from the members of the legislature, thereby knocking off additional personnel costs.

    One of our intentions is to provoke a national discourse on the governance system suitable for Nigeria. Apart from the consultations held so far, there are plans to consult CSOs, religious leaders, business community and of course the youths. As part of the effective engagement of the youths, the Parliamentary Systems Support group (PSSG) has kicked off a national essay competition open globally to all Nigerian students at any university to discuss the system of government that works for the country.

    In the present democratic dispensation, two national conferences had been held – One under President Obasanjo government and the other under President Goodluck Jonathan. These conferences confirm that Nigerians believe that the system was not working and there was need to find suitable alternatives. Sadly, the factors that compelled the convocation of the conferences are still on ground.

    As the national conversation continues, it is not unexpected that the outcome may be a hybrid government system that combines the lessons of our history, the beauty of our culture and the sacrosanctity of our values. May this conversation culminate in the adoption a home-grown government system that works for Nigeria.

    *Hon. Abdussamad Dasuki, House of Representatives member representing Kebbe/Tambuwal Federal Constituency of Sokoto State, is the spokesman of the lawmakers calling for return to home-grown parliamentary system.