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  • State creation, power devolution, others on front burner as Reps kick off constitution review

    State creation, power devolution, others on front burner as Reps kick off constitution review

    Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution has long been a subject of intense debate. Enacted and bequeathed by the military, critics argue that it does not fully reflect democratic ideals or the diverse aspirations of Nigerians. The latest attempt at constitutional review, with issues like state creation in the front burner, spearheaded by the 10th House of Representatives Committee, represents another effort to address these long-standing concerns NICHOLAS KALU reports:

    PREAMBLE

    The review process kicked off with a two-day retreat in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State, where lawmakers engaged in intensive brainstorming sessions to set the agenda for constitutional amendments. Over 250 proposals were received for various amendments, covering critical issues such as federalism, local government autonomy, security, electoral reforms, gender and human rights.

    It was organized by the House in collaboration with the Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre and supported by the UK Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).

    The retreat, which one the the 22nd and 23rd of February , 2025, served as a platform for reviewing pending amendment bills and strategizing on the next steps in the constitutional review process.

    One major takeaway from the retreat was the issue of state creation. Of the 31 memoranda submitted for new states, none met the constitutional requirements. Despite this, the issue remains one of the most pressing aspects of the review.

    Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, urged proponents of state creation to refine their proposals to meet the necessary conditions, as the deadline for submitting all memoranda is March 5, 2025.

    Background: Past attempts at Constitutional reform

    Since Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999, successive governments have attempted to amend the constitution, often with mixed results. The 2005 National Political Reform Conference, initiated by President Olusegun Obasanjo, proposed significant constitutional changes, but its recommendations were largely discarded after the controversial third-term agenda surfaced.

    Similarly, the 2014 National Conference convened by President Goodluck Jonathan proposed extensive reforms, including restructuring Nigeria’s federal system. However, political shifts following the 2015 elections led to its abandonment. More recently, the 2020–2021 constitutional review process aimed to address electoral reforms, local government autonomy, and gender inclusivity, but many proposals failed to gain traction at the state level.

    Given this history of stalled reforms, the current review process has renewed hopes and skepticism in equal measure. Will it be different this time?

    The 2025 Constitutional Review: What’s at stake?

    At the heart of the current review process is the need to correct constitutional deficiencies that hinder effective governance. The Committee’s deliberations focused on several critical areas:

    Federal Structure and Power Devolution

    Nigeria operates a federal system of government, but there have been growing calls for greater devolution of powers to states and local governments. Many argue that the current structure concentrates excessive power at the federal level, leaving states and local governments with limited autonomy to address local needs effectively.

    Key issues under consideration include devolution of more powers to states to allow them greater control over critical sectors such as policing, infrastructure development, and resource management; eview of the Exclusive and Concurrent Legislative Lists, ensuring states have greater legislative authority in areas such as education, agriculture, and transportation; and strengthening state governments’ capacity to manage their own economic and social policies without overreliance on the federal government.

    Proponents of restructuring argue that greater devolution will enhance efficiency, reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks, and foster regional economic growth.

    Local Government Autonomy

    The autonomy of local governments in Nigeria has been a contentious issue, as state governments often exercise significant control over their operations, finances, and leadership. Despite being the third tier of government, local governments struggle with financial dependence and political interference from state governments.

    Proposed amendments focus on ensuring direct allocation of funds to local governments from the Federation Account, rather than routing funds through state governments, which often leads to diversion and mismanagement; granting local governments full administrative autonomy, allowing them to independently execute developmental projects without undue state interference; mandating democratically elected local government councils, as opposed to the current practice where some state governors dissolve elected councils and appoint caretaker committees; and enhancing local government autonomy is expected to bring governance closer to the people, improve service delivery, and promote grassroots development.

    Public revenue, fiscal federation, and revenue allocation

    The debate over fiscal federalism in Nigeria revolves around how revenue is collected and distributed among the three tiers of government. Many argue that the current revenue-sharing formula disproportionately favors the federal government, leaving states and local governments financially weak.

    Proposed changes include a review of the revenue-sharing formula, with a push for states to receive a larger percentage of federally collected revenue; increasing states’ control over natural resources, allowing them to generate more revenue from resources found within their territories; enhancing the financial independence of states and local governments, ensuring they have adequate resources to fund development projects without excessive dependence on federal allocations.

    Proponents believe a restructured fiscal system would encourage states to explore internally generated revenue sources and promote economic competitiveness among regions.

    Nigerian police and security architecture

    Nigeria’s security challenges, including terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and communal conflicts, have fueled calls for the restructuring of the country’s security framework. The current centralized police structure is often seen as inadequate for addressing security threats at the local level.

    Proposed reforms include establishing state policing, allowing states to have their own police forces to address security issues within their jurisdictions; decentralizing the Nigerian Police Force, ensuring regional commands have more authority to respond swiftly to security concerns; strengthening community policing initiatives, making law enforcement more responsive to the needs of local communities; and reviewing laws governing security agencies, including intelligence-sharing mechanisms and inter-agency cooperation to enhance national security.

    Proponents believe a decentralized policing is seen as a key step toward improving security, as local authorities would have greater control over law enforcement within their regions.

    Comprehensive judicial reforms

    The Nigerian judiciary has long been plagued by inefficiencies, delays, and allegations of corruption, making justice slow and sometimes inaccessible. Judicial reforms are necessary to ensure that the legal system is transparent, efficient, and capable of upholding the rule of law.

    Key areas under review include reducing the backlog of cases by establishing more courts and appointing additional judges; enhancing financial and administrative independence of the judiciary to prevent interference from the executive and legislative arms; streamlining the process of appointing judges, ensuring merit-based selection rather than political influence; promoting alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, such as arbitration and mediation, to reduce pressure on conventional courts; and strengthening judicial accountability, with clear measures to address corruption within the judiciary.

    Proponents feel a more efficient judicial system will improve access to justice, strengthen democracy, and enhance investor confidence in Nigeria’s legal framework.

    Electoral reforms

    Nigeria’s electoral system has faced repeated challenges, including vote rigging, violence, and legal disputes over election outcomes. Strengthening the electoral process is crucial to ensuring free, fair, and credible elections.

    Proposed reforms include reviewing the appointment process for INEC leadership, ensuring the commission remains truly independent and free from political influence; strengthening the use of technology in elections, including electronic voting and biometric verification, to reduce electoral fraud; enhancing voter registration and access, ensuring all eligible Nigerians can vote without undue restrictions; tougher penalties for electoral offenses, such as vote-buying, intimidation, and ballot box snatching; and nsuring diaspora voting rights, allowing Nigerians living abroad to participate in elections.

    Proponents believe effective electoral reforms will strengthen Nigeria’s democracy, increase voter confidence, and improve the legitimacy of elected officials.

    Gender issues and human rights

    Gender inequality and human rights abuses remain significant concerns in Nigeria’s governance and legal framework. Despite constitutional provisions guaranteeing equal rights, women and marginalized groups continue to face discrimination in political representation, economic participation, and social policies.

    Key areas of reform include ensuring greater political representation for women, possibly through gender quotas in elective and appointive positions; strengthening laws against gender-based violence, ensuring stricter penalties for offenders; enhancing economic rights for women, including equal access to land ownership, financial credit, and employment opportunities; and protecting the rights of minority groups, including persons with disabilities, to ensure inclusivity in governance; reforming discriminatory laws, particularly those affecting women’s rights in inheritance, marriage, and property ownership.

    Proponents feel addressing gender and human rights issues will promote social justice, inclusivity, and national development.

    State creation: A contentious yet critical issue

    Despite the 31 memoranda submitted for state creation failing to meet constitutional requirements, the demand for new states remains one of the most significant aspects of the review process.

    Kalu, who is the Deputy Speaker, emphasized that state creation proposals must be well-structured and meet legal and procedural requirements before they can be considered. He encouraged proponents to refine their submissions before the March 5, 2025 deadline.

    The push for new states is driven by demands for better representation, equitable resource distribution, and administrative efficiency. However, opponents argue that creating new states could strain national resources and deepen ethnic divisions.

    Acknowledging the importance of state creation in Nigeria’s governance discourse, Kalu noted that while the demands reflected the aspirations of various communities, they fell short of the legal criteria necessary for consideration.

    He said in response, the committee extended the deadline for submissions to March 5, 2025, to allow for further input and possible revisions.

    He said the House Committee is currently reviewing 151 constitutional amendment bills, reflecting lawmakers’ collective effort to refine governance in Nigeria.

    While some bills have progressed to the second reading, others remain at the first stage, he said.

    “Although we have received 31 requests for state creation, none of these requests met the constitutional requirements for amendment.

    “Therefore, we have since extended the submission date to 5th of March, 2025. But this retreat could in our resolution extend it further if we find out that there are still challenges that the people we represent in their efforts to make their voices heard.

    “So at the end of this retreat, it will be one of the things we will look into, whether or not we will extend the time. But let it be a notice that none of the applications followed the conditions laid out by Section 8 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” Kalu had said.

    Recognizing the intersection between constitutional amendments and electoral laws, he said the committee invited the leadership of both the House and Senate Committees on Electoral Matters to the retreat.

    Kalu emphasized that any proposed changes to the Electoral Act requiring constitutional alterations must pass through the Committee.

    “A proactive, cooperative approach will ensure seamless legislative processes and comprehensive legal reforms,” he said.

    As part of the next phase of the constitutional review, he said the committee has scheduled Zonal and National Public Hearings across the six geopolitical zones.

    These hearings, be said, will provide an avenue for Nigerians to contribute to the amendment process.

    The hearings are set to take place in the North Central (Nasarawa and Niger States), North East (Borno and Gombe States), North West (Kaduna and Sokoto States), South East (Enugu and Imo States), South South (Bayelsa and Cross River States), and the South West (Lagos and Ondo States).

    Kalu urged lawmakers to engage with these bills diligently and objectively to ensure that the final amendments reflect the will of the Nigerian people.

    “As legislators, we must ensure the voices of Nigerians are reflected in our constitutional reforms,” he said.

    Kalu promised a renewed commitment to a transparent and inclusive constitutional review process.

    He expressed confidence that the committee’s deliberations would strengthen Nigeria’s democracy and governance structure.

    Executive Director of PLAC, Mr Clement Nwankwo, said they have been very delighted to work with and support the Committee.

    “We are quite confident that this committee intends to deliver on the mandate that it has set for itself and for us it will be a key and great win to see the amendments to the constitution delivered within the timeframe that this committee has set.

    “We’re looking forward to great deliberations. My colleagues who are co-consultants with me on this project have been meeting over several the last couple of months to deliberate and come up with suggestions for this committee to look at,” he said.

    Kalu highlighted a major challenge in the review process which is duplication. He said some bills addressed similar issues under different sponsors, while others overlapped in subject matter. To streamline efforts and eliminate redundancy, he said the committee categorized the bills into the thematic areas. The categorization of the thematic areas, according to Kalu, would help lawmakers prioritize amendments based on national interest and legislative relevance.

    Next Steps: Public Engagement and Harmonization

    The amendment is expected to be in two tranches with the first on electoral matters expected to be done by the end of this year. This one would focus on electoral issues so they can be assessed and some with long before the next general elections.

    Following the retreat in Ikot Ekpene, the Committee will conduct Zonal Public Hearings across the six geopolitical zones to gather input from citizens, civil society organizations, and experts. These hearings will take place in:

    North Central: Nasarawa and Niger States

    North East: Borno and Gombe States

    North West: Kaduna and Sokoto States

    South East: Enugu and Imo States

    South South: Bayelsa and Cross River States

    South West: Lagos and Ondo States

    After the public hearings, a Joint/Harmonization Meeting with the Senate will be held to consolidate the proposed amendments before they are sent to the National Assembly for voting.

    Challenges and Skepticism: Can This Review Succeed?

    Despite the enthusiasm surrounding the constitutional review, several obstacles could hinder its success, stakeholders believe.Issues that may affect it include political resistance as some politicians may oppose reforms that reduce their influence, such as local government autonomy and state policing. Also ethnic and regional tensions could be a challenge as achieving consensus on sensitive issues like revenue sharing and state creation remains difficult. Also, there are implementation hurdles to be surmounted as even if amendments pass, enforcement mechanisms must be in place to ensure compliance.

    Committee members expectations

    Benjamin Kalu: We assure of a people oriented constitution

    Kalu, the Deputy Speaker, who is the member representing Bende Federal Constituency of Abia State, promised a people-oriented constitution at the end of the exercise.

    He expressed gratitude to the members of the Committee for their commitment towards a successful exercise and urge them to remain committed.

    He said, “We are so proud of you. On behalf of the speaker, on behalf of the representative, the leadership of the National Assembly, we found you worthy to make you members of this committee and you have not failed us.

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    “From the time you took on this role, we knew it was a tough task. We know as well that time is of the essence in view the fact that we want to achieve the first tranche of our job before the period of election.

    “But with the kind of team spirit that we have exhibited, the kind of dedication we have exhibited, it appears to us that the destination towards realizing this is in view. This is only because we held each other’s hand, only because we believed that Nigeria could be better than we met it. Only because we heard the cries of the people that we represent and we want their voices to be heard.

    “So that truly the constitution that we want to be a people oriented constitution, as stated in the preamble of the constitution that we, the people of Nigeria, will indeed be a constitution that has the characterization of the people’s desire captured in it.

    “You are the architect of the greater future of Nigeria. You are the cooks in the kitchen baking the best Nigeria that will be better than the one we have ever seen. Don’t give up. If you don’t get weary in this work, in no distant sign that Nigerians will reap from this.

    “There may be challenges along the path of achieving this, but your dedication and determination and diligence has oiled the way towards the greater heights that’s in view.

    “Please let this bonding among us continue. Let us not stop at this retreat. Let us be partners in progress towards making this dream realizable. Thank you for being my partners. The Speaker and I are proud of you.”

    Akin Rotimi Jnr: We promise an inclusive and transparent process

    Rotimi, the Chairman, House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, representing Ekiti North 1 (Ikole/Oye) Federal Constituency of Ekiti State, said the House is fully committed to ensuring that the process is inclusive, transparent, and reflective of the aspirations of all Nigerians.

    “The constitutional review process is a complex and delicate undertaking that demands expertise, wisdom, and careful engagement with diverse stakeholders across ethnic, religious, and political lines.

    “Guided by our legislative agenda, we remain steadfast in delivering meaningful reforms under the capable leadership of Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, the Deputy Speaker and Chairman of the House Committee on Constitution Review who is a lawyer.

    “Nigerians can expect a thorough, well-considered, and impactful exercise that strengthens our democracy and fosters national development,” the House Spokesman said.

    Ahmadu Usman Jaha: The Constitution will be delivered on time

    Jaha represents Damboa/Gwoza/Chibok Federal constituency of Borno State including the 82 not yet recovered Chibok girls.

    On his expectations, he said, “My expectation is for all members of the Committee to be on the same page so that at the end of the day, we can have a harmonized position and give the Nigerian people the constitution they deserve.

    “To be fair to them (Nigerians), they must have one or two reservations with regards to the integrity of the process, particularly in the past. But this time around, in the 10th Assembly, we have a square peg in a square hole by having the Rt Hon Benjamin Kalu as the Chairman of the Constitution Review Committee from the House of Representatives. He is qualified to hold his position and I know at the end of the period the needful will be done accordingly.”

    On getting Nigerians involved in the process, he said, “There is a procedure. We are planning to have a retreat in the six geopolitical zones of this country and in each zone we will have two different states where we can do the public hearing. And each public hearing is going to take like a day or two where people will be allowed to come and ventilate their opinion so that all their opinions will be recorded and be considered when and wherever the committee is writing a report for consideration before the floor of the House.

    “Secondly, immediately after we pass this bill into law, a bill is going to be transmitted to the various state houses of assembly across the country for them to deliberate on the matter and vote on each and every clause of that particular amendment before getting it back to the National Assembly, where six clean copies will be transmitted to the president for executive assent. So there are stages that Nigerians should have to believe with us.”

    On his confidence that the process will be concluded within the life of this Assembly, he said, “In fact, we are even planning to do it in two batches. In the first batch, we are planning to conclude it before this year runs out and towards the end of this year, we’ll begin or start the second batch of the constitutional amendment. Factors or issues we are considering now are issues that have to do with the election so that we can do them far away from the election period in order to avoid some litigation.”

  • After Babangida’s book, what next?

    After Babangida’s book, what next?

    By Ikedi Ohakim

    It is not surprising that the revelations and admissions by former military president, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB)., in his recently released autobiography, A Journey In Service, has elicited a lot of reactions from virtually every section of Nigeria and her citizenry. The thrust of most of the reactions is that he made his revelations very belatedly, after the nation had gone, full cycle, through the agony of some of his actions while in office, key of which is the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election. In my opinion, however, it is wrong to accuse IBB of coming with his revelations belatedly simply because of June 12. IBB in his book raised other critical issues that transcend June 12.  As far as I am concerned, he came up with them at the most appropriate time since it gives us a larger ambience to interrogate other acts of perfidy that were committed against Nigerians and their country before and after June 12.

    Minus the fact that many Nigerians miss the amiable and very large-hearted Moshood Abiola – who perhaps would have still been alive today but for that annulment   – I believe that the nation has since put June 12 behind it; especially after the regime of President Muhammadu Buhari wisely decided to recognize him as a former president. We should count ourselves lucky that God kept General Babangida alive up till now. IBB would have had nothing to lose if he had preferred to keep mute till the Almighty Allah takes him away. In other words, Nigeria as a country is the beneficiary since, as I have already pointed out, the book has armed us with materials for a more transcendental interrogation of our collective existence.

    So, much as the reawakening of the emotions over June 12 by IBB’s book is quite understandable, I think that what matters now is to immediately follow up with the revelations of the retired General. We have to immediately embark on a journey towards a true and final reconciliation; to which we have paid lip service  over the years. There was an attempt at that through the Oputa Panel but the opportunity was bungled. In the light of what we now know, thanks to Babangida’s book, we should avail ourselves another opportunity and with all alacrity this time around.

    In making this submission, I am encouraged by the fact that the fellow currently at the helm of affairs, President Bola Tinubu, has demonstrated a tremendous flair for getting at the root of issues. Therefore, apart from the imperatives of his bold and courageous economic reforms, I think that providence is also saddling him with the responsibility of building a new nation.

    Let’s take the civil war, especially the circumstances that led to it. Take specifically the January 15, 1966 military coup and the counter coup of July 29, 1966. Even though a lot has been written before now about the two military coup de’tats that led to the war, I am of the opinion that IBB’s narration is the one we have been waiting for. Take the matter of whether or not the January 15, 1966 coup was an “Igbo coup”. I am of the strong belief that as far as majority of Nigerians are concerned, Babangida’s book has finally laid it to rest. Contrary to what have been bandied for nearly the past six decades, Babangida’s book has shown that it was not an “Igbo coup”, pure and simple.

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    This was how IBB put it: “… as a young officer who saw all this from a distance, probably, ethnic sentiments did not drive the original objective of the coup plotters. For instance, the head of the plotters, Major Kaduna Nzeogwu, was only ‘Igbo’ in name. Born and raised in Kaduna, his immigrant parents were from Okpanam in today’s Delta state, which in 1966, was in the mid-west. Nzeogwu spoke fluent Hausa and was as ‘Hausa’ as any! He and his original team probably thought, even if naive, that they could turn things around for the better in the country … It should, however be borne in mind that some senior officers of Igbo extraction were also victims of the January coup. For instance, my erstwhile commander at the Reconnaissance Squadron in Kaduna, Lt-Col. Arthur Chinyelu Unegbe, was brutally gunned down by his own ‘brother’, Major Chris Anuforo in the presence of his pregnant wife … it should also be remembered that some non-Igbo officers like Major Adewale Ademoyega, Captain Ganiyu Adeleke, Lts Fola Oyewole and Olafimihan, took part in the failed coup. Another officer of Igbo extraction, Major John Obienu, crushed the coup”.

    Babangida further pointed out that “those who argue that the original intention of the coup plotters was anything but ethnic refer to the fact that the initial purpose of the plotters was to release Chief Obafemi Awolowo from prison immediately after the coup and make him the executive provisional president of Nigeria. The fact that these ‘Igbo’ officers would do this to a man not known to be a great ‘lover’ of the Igbos may have given the coup a different ethnic coloration…”

    I am relieved by Babangida’s disclosures. They have removed a load on my head with the realization that we can now bring a closure to one particular issue that has militated against our efforts at building a united nation since after the civil war.  Let’s not make any further mistake about it, the wrongful dubbing of the January 15, 1966 coup as an “Igbo coup” is at the very heart of our problem as a nation. That falsehood was what led to the second coup of July 29, 1966 and the subsequent pogrom which Babangida in his book described thus: “…the most horrific killing of the Igbos occurred in different parts of northern Nigeria on September 29, 1966… the killings were frightening” (page 63). If northern elements – both civilian and military – took a revenge on Igbo civilians, whose brothers in the army allegedly staged a coup that led to the death of several of their political and military leaders, the anger was total among the Igbo back home.

    Stories of the pogrom were quite disheartening. I have a personal one. A man, who was popularly known as Bekee in my home town, Okohia, had his pregnant wife killed in his presence; her stomach ripped open and the unborn baby brought out from the womb and smashed. Although Bekee managed to escape and return home, he could not survive the trauma of that experience. The story angered the youths in my area as a result of which several of them – including my very self –  rushed to get enlisted into what was then known as the Boys Company, a branch of the Biafran army. Over 70 per cent got perished in the war.

    Since after the war, caused basically by the falsity of an ‘Igbo coup”, the Igbo have been at the receiving end; and which is why there is a subsisting agitation for a separate country. What Babangida has done is calling on the leadership of the country for a final closure to what seems to be an animosity in perpetuity. If we must mobilize the entire citizenry for nation building, there must be reconciliation. So, rather than doubt his sincerity, Nigerians should see in what IBB has done through his book as a grand opportunity to pursue a new dawn. But for that to happen, some of the major dramatis personnea in that saga should take a cue from there and similarly tell the nation all that they know about that dark era of our history. Take General Yakubu Gowon, for example, who, more than any other living Nigerian, was most central in the events that ensued after the ‘Igbo Coup’.

    Essentially, I would like that General Gowon address Nigerians on the Aburi Accord; why it failed and which some narrators, including Babangida, cite as the final straw that broke the Carmel’s back; that is, the thing that finally led to the thirty-months long civil war. A well-known angle to the story has it that Lt-Col Yakubu Gowon – as he was then known – as head of state of Nigeria reneged on the agreements in the Aburi Accord upon the advice of Northern political leaders who told him that the Accord – which was that Nigeria should go for a structure of a loose federation – was not in the interest of the North.  Let’s take a look at the insights provided   by Babangida in his book:

    “The emergence of Lt-Col Gowon as the new Commander-in-Chief of the Nigeria Armed Forces marked the beginning of the tension between Gowon and Lt-Col Emeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu. … Ojukwu rejected Gowon’s emergence as Head of State, insisting that in the absence of Aguiyi-Ironsi, the most senior Nigerian Army officer in the person of Brigadier Babafemi Ogundipe, should be Head of State and Commander-in-Chief”.  But that was not to be; and tension rose. According to IBB, it was under these circumstances that Lt-General Joseph Arthur Ankrah, then Ghana’s head of state, “stepped in by suggesting a neutral and safe venue for an actual Reconciliation conference between Ojukwu and the federal government”. Babangida further wrote that that intervention by General Ankrah led to the famous Peace Conference in …Aburi between January 4 and 5 1967 and which resulted in the “famous Aburi Accord”. But that was where the story ended.

    Hear IBB: “in the absence of fully published records from the federal government regarding what transpired at the Aburi meetings, the details of what happened HAVE (emphasis mine) remained speculative. While the published accounts of the eastern Nigeria delegation insisted that an agreement for a loose Nigerian federation was agreed to, the federal government claimed that the agreement reached was understood and seen within the framework of a united Nigerian state… These differences in interpretations were the final trigger for the outbreak of the Nigerian Civil war”.

    Since Ojukwu is no more, it is to Gowon, who was present at the public presentation of Babangida’s book – and even made a speech – that Nigerians should now turn to with the question: “What happened?” Why was the Aburi Accord not implemented; or why did the federal government which he led choose to wallow in ambiguity over the contents of the Accord as clearly stated by IBB? Why was Brigadier Ogundipe, who was the most senior army officer then, not allowed to take over as head of state and commander-in-chief? Fast forward to 1976, after the assassination of the then head of state, General Murtala Mohammed and how almost effortlessly the military hierarchy settled for the then Lt. Gen. Olusegun Obasanjo, who was Mohammed’s second-in-command, to take over as head of state and commander-in-chief.

    Babangida recalls: “We knew it would be either General Obasanjo or General Danjuma since as Lt. Generals, they were the most senior… the pendulum swung in favour of General Danjuma at the start of the deliberations. Everyone present, including Obasanjo, thought Danjuma should take over. But somehow, Danjuma cast his lot for Obasanjo, insisting that as Mohammed’s deputy and a ‘senior’ Lieutenant-General, Obasanjo should succeed Murtala Mohammed. Obasanjo refused and offered… to retire from the army to enable Danjuma to emerge as head of state. There appeared to be a momentary stalemate. But that soon faded away. Faced with the insistence of Danjuma, everyone caved in and Obasanjo accepted the challenge to succeed Murtala”.  Going by the above, was Ojukwu, not vindicated on his stance on Ogundipe in 1966?

    The next among the resource fellows in our proposed final reconciliation conference would be former civilian president, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan. I believe that many Nigerians are aware that in a book released earlier, BOLD LEAP, an autobiography of Senator Chris Anyanwu, she made a revelation which has remained a subject of discussion throughout the country in the past two months or so. Senator Anyanwu had in her book claimed that she got approval from President Jonathan to call in the military to intervene in the 2011 governorship election in Imo state.

    On page 470 of her book, Anyanwu narrated how, at a meeting with Dr. Jonathan in his house in his home town, Otueke, in Bayelsa state, the then president, said “Ok” to her proposal to mobilize the military to Imo state in order to stop me from rigging the governorship election. And as is well known, the military invaded the state in a Gestapo style and unleashed terror on the electorate. The question Nigerians have been asking since after that revelation is, assuming that it was true that I wanted to rig the election, was drafting the military into an electoral process the best way to stop me? Up till this moment, Dr. Jonathan and his handlers are yet to respond to that claim by Senator Anyanwu, a claim that clearly defamed him and poured red ink on his democratic credentials. Like Gowon, Jonathan was present at the launching of IBB’s book. So, to him (Jonathan) also should be directed the question: “What happened”?

    However, he, Jonathan, does not have the liberty of waiting, like IBB, for thirty two years; for the simple reason that Nigerians are eager to come to a closure to the practices and individual idiosyncrasies that constitute stumbling blocks in our match to an enduring democracy. Even so, Babangida’s ‘crime’ is perhaps more pardonable since it was committed in the context of a military regime with June 12 epitomizing the determination of Nigerians to end it once and for all. On the other hand, the perfidy that occurred in Imo in 2011 came eighteen good years after Nigerians had decisively won the battle to install an enduring democracy.

    Overall, Babangida’s book may have evoked angry sentiments of an era that Nigerians would have wished never had been their lot but we now have an opportunity to go the whole log. As suggested by President Olusegun Obasanjo in his speech at the book launch, IBB should not be deterred by the knocks he is receiving for making this patriotic move in the twilight of his life. My friend and brother, Femi Fani-Kayode, who was barely six years old in 1966, could not possibly fault Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, who was twenty four years old and already a commissioned officer in the Nigerian army by the time of the incidents under review. What FFK read as history, IBB witnessed as an event. So, Femi, my brother from another mother, don’t go there.

  • Tackling insecurity in Anambra through inclusive policing, robust strategies

    Tackling insecurity in Anambra through inclusive policing, robust strategies

    When CP Ikioye Orutugu assumed office as the 35th Commissioner of Police, Anambra State, on February 10, 2025, he made a firm commitment to reclaim public spaces, curb violent crimes, and restore security across the state. In his maiden press briefing, he articulated a vision of proactive policing, community engagement, and a relentless pursuit of justice. Barely weeks into his tenure, Assistant News Editor PRECIOUS IGBONWELUNDU reports that his multi-pronged strategies have begun yielding positive results in the state hitherto marred by terrorism, violent extremism and carnage.

    Reclaiming Anambra’s Public Spaces

    Upon assuming office, CP Ikioye Orutugu made it clear that his administration would not tolerate any form of criminality. “I intend to address the ideology-based crimes such as attacks on unsuspecting members of the public, security personnel, abduction of persons, and destruction of government infrastructures,” he declared.

    His tenure began amid concerns over insecurity, including the gruesome murder of three siblings in Nnewi and the wanton killings of innocents in communities in Ihiala local government area, an operation base for unknown gunmen and outlawed IPOB/ESN deviants.

    During a visit to the Nnewi crime scene, he reassured the public of his commitment to unraveling the circumstances surrounding the crime and ensuring that justice prevailed. Unlike previous incidents of kidnappings and unexplained disappearances, he vowed that such cases would not be swept under the carpet.

    True to his word, CP Orutugu swiftly reorganized the command’s crime-fighting strategies, deploying intelligence assets, strengthening partnerships with security agencies, and leveraging community-based policing to enhance security in the state.

    One of CP Orutugu’s first moves was fostering strategic alliances with key stakeholders including political leaders, youth associations, community leaders and relevant ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) in the state with a focus on addressing security concerns.

    One of such meetings was the one he had with the Speaker, Anambra State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze which centered on the re-arrest of the two fleeing suspects in the murder of lawmaker, Justice Azuka- a member representing Onitsha 1 constituency who was kidnapped, murdered by his abductors after collecting ransom and his body dumped on the Second Niger Bridge.

    Similarly, the Commissioner hosted the state’s Attorney General, Prof. (Mrs.) Sylvia Chika Ifemeje, to strengthen collaboration between the police and the judiciary. This partnership aimed to ensure swift prosecution of criminals and improved evidence gathering to secure convictions.

    In a bid to address youth-related crimes, CP Orutugu partnered the state’s Ministry of Women Affairs to launch initiatives that would discourage criminal tendencies among young people. During a meeting with Commissioner Ify Obinabo, he emphasized the critical role of women in shaping societal values, advocating for their active participation in crime prevention and control efforts.

    The collaboration aims to empower women with resources to educate and discipline children effectively;

    encourage community-based initiatives for social cohesion, as well as work with women-led organisations to develop crime prevention strategies, thus tackling the root causes of ideology based crimes and criminality in the state.

    Reactivating Manhunt for Fleeing Suspects

    Although the kidnap and murder of Azuka, and the escape from lawful custody of two of the suspects happened before Orutugu resumed duty as the Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, he wasted no time in taking decisive action.

    Recognizing the gravity of the case, he ordered a meticulous investigation, leading to the arrest of several suspects, including drivers who assisted the criminal gang. However, two principal suspects- Ikemefuna Ossai and Chinedu Okoli-escaped during an operation.

    Determined to prevent similar security lapses, CP Orutugu took measures including the activation of operational strategies to track and apprehend the suspects, as well as the implementation of disciplinary actions against officers whose lapses led to the escape.

    This resolute approach has reassured the people of Anambra that no criminal will be above the law.

    Enhancing Public Safety and Interagency Collaboration

    A key aspect of CP Orutugu’s strategy is the reinforcement of public safety measures. He has engaged officers in charge of surveillance, patrol, and guard units, urging them to uphold professionalism and vigilance. In addition, newly passed-out recruits were deployed across various police divisions, strengthening the command’s capacity to respond swiftly to security incidents.

    Recognizing that security is a collective effort, CP Orutugu has prioritized interagency collaboration. He visited key security agencies, including:

    The 302 Artillery Regiment (General Support), Onitsha;

    the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).

    These visits underscored the need for intelligence sharing and seamless coordination to tackle security challenges effectively.

    Cracking Down on Cultism and Other Vices

    Understanding the impact of cultism on public safety, CP Orutugu has intensified efforts to curb the menace. On February 13, he received the leadership of the Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices (POCACOV). He charged them with sustaining advocacy efforts to dissuade young people from engaging in cult-related activities.

    POCACOV’s approach includes

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    school and community outreach programmes, and partnerships with youth organizations.

    To further combat organized crime, the Commissioner has also reorganized the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) in Awkuzu, ensuring that its operations are more transparent and effective.

    Tackling IPOB-ESN Threats and Illegal Sit-at-Home Orders

    Another significant challenge has been the enforcement of illegal sit-at-home orders by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).

    In response, the police command has

    increased patrols and surveillance in volatile areas; strengthened intelligence gathering, and ensured strategic deployment of personnel and resources.

    Through these efforts, normalcy is gradually returning to parts of the state previously affected by IPOB’s activities.

    Proactive Steps to End Farmer-Herder Clashes

    To address longstanding conflicts between herders and local farmers, CP Orutugu has revived the Cattle Menace Committee. This initiative aims to mitigate disputes, prevent destruction of farmlands, and foster peaceful coexistence.

    The Commissioner’s engagement with the Hausa-Fulani community has been instrumental in finding lasting solutions to these issues.

    Breakthroughs in Anti-Trafficking Operations

    One of the most remarkable achievements under CP Orutugu’s leadership has been the recent crackdown on human trafficking. On February 15, police operatives in Onitsha arrested a syndicate involved in child trafficking and rescued 10 malnourished children.

    Key suspects, including a fake doctor, were apprehended, and investigations revealed that a five-year-old girl had been sold for ₦1 million. The command is working with the Ministry of Women Affairs to rehabilitate the rescued children and reunite them with their families.

    A Safer Anambra: The Road Ahead

    CP Orutugu’s first few weeks in office have set a promising precedent. His commitment to inclusive policing, proactive crime prevention, and strategic partnerships has instilled a renewed sense of security in Anambra State.

    “For those who have been misled into crime, retrace your steps now. The command is poised to deal squarely with all acts of criminality, regardless of status. A stitch in time saves nine,” Orutugu warned.

  • Anambra 2025: Obiora Okonkwo dazzles at APC headquarters

    Anambra 2025: Obiora Okonkwo dazzles at APC headquarters

    By Arinze Igboeli

    WHAT was meant to be a routine submission of nomination and expression of interest forms transformed into an unprecedented carnival of political goodwill as Professor Obiora Okonkwo, Dikeora, stormed the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Secretariat in Abuja in line with the process of submitting his expression of interest and nomination forms pursuant to the deadline date of February 26, 2025 as specified by the National Working Committee,  NWC of the APC.

    The event, which could easily have been mistaken for a mini-rally, saw hundreds of supporters from Anambra State and the diaspora converge in a spectacular display of solidarity that not only created some sort of traffic snag along the  riads leading to Blantyre street where the National Secretariat of the APC is located but also left onlookers in awe.

    A Sea of Support

    The atmosphere at the APC headquarters was electric as early as 11 am when the first buses began arriving with supporters adorned in customized attire bearing Okonkwo’s image. What began as a trickle turned inti a torrentious  flood of people as more supporters arrived from various local government areas of Anambra State, creating a kaleidoscope of colors and sounds that transformed the usually formal environment of the party secretariat.

    “We’ve seen form submissions before, but nothing like this,” remarked a security personnel at the gate, visibly overwhelmed by the sheer number of enthusiastic supporters who had traveled from far and wide to witness what they described as a “turning point” for Anambra State.

    The crowd, comprising women, youth groups, professional associations, and diaspora organizations, moved in coordinated formations, singing solidarity songs in Igbo and English. Traditional dance troupes added cultural depth to the occasion, their rhythmic movements synchronized with talking drums and ogene music that echoed through the premises.

    “Dikeora bu nke anyi! Dikeora for Governor!” the crowd chanted repeatedly, creating a festival-like ambiance that attracted the attention of passersby and staff of neighboring buildings who stepped out to witness the spectacle.

    A Moment of Camaraderie

    The highlight of the event came when Professor Okonkwo, dressed in an resplendent red traditional attire with a red cap and red shoes to match, made his way through the crowd toward the party secretariat, on sighting him a thunderous applause rent the air speaking volumes about his popularity with his own people.

    Inside the secretariat, the submission ceremony took on an air of historic significance as Okonkwo presented his completed forms to the APC National Organizing Secretary, Sulaiman Argungu, and the Deputy National Organizing Secretary, Nze Chidi Duru. What would typically have been a brief, formal exchange became a moment of camaraderie and shared vision.

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    “Today marks the beginning of Anambra’s renaissance,” Argungu remarked as he received the forms, his statement triggering another round of applause from party officials present.

    The warmth of the exchange between Okonkwo and the party officials didn’t go unnoticed, with Nze Chidi Duru embracing the aspirant in what observers described as a gesture that transcended mere political formality.

    “The energy in that room was palpable,” noted a party official who witnessed the submission. “It felt like we were not just receiving forms but welcoming a transformative force into our political fold.”

    Intellectual Prowess on Display

    Perhaps the most captivating segment of the day’s events came when Professor Okonkwo addressed the APC press corps in an impromptu media parley that showcased his intellectual depth and political sagacity.

    Speaking with remarkable eloquence that held journalists spellbound, Okonkwo articulated his vision for Anambra with a clarity that distinguished him from the typical political rhetoric. His command of economic principles, governance strategies, and development paradigms left many in the audience nodding in appreciation of his depth.

    When confronted with the contentious issue of zoning that has dominated Anambra’s political discourse, Okonkwo’s response was both measured and masterful. With the precision of an academic and the wisdom of a statesman, he dismantled the arguments for restrictive zoning policies.

    “Competence must never be sacrificed on the altar of political convenience,” he asserted, earning murmurs of approval from the journalists. “Anambra deserves the best hands at this critical juncture, regardless of which senatorial zone they come from. My track record speaks for itself, and I invite scrutiny of my capabilities rather than fixation on my geographical origins.”

    Going further he elaborated on how each zone had via taken eight years each and that if zoning was sacrosanct then it was the turn of Anambra Central which was his zone .

  • Council election: APC more focus to win entire FCT – Minister

    Council election: APC more focus to win entire FCT – Minister

    The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister of State, Mariya Mahmoud, has declared that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the nation’s capital is more focused and determined to win the six area councils in the forthcoming area council elections and the general elections.

    Mahmoud, who spoke on Thursday at a crucial stakeholder meeting of the APC in FCT, also stressed that members have identified the problems of the party and are ready to confront the challenges head-on.

    She reiterated that the selfish interest of some identified individuals should not override the collective interest of the party.

    According to her: “I can see that APC in FCT is taking shape and becoming more focused on the way forward. 

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    “We have identified where our problems lie, and we are more united to overcome them. The result of our unity will manifest more in the area council elections and the general election come 2027”. 

    The minister affirmed that the creation of Youth and Women Secretariat by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was a deliberate and strategic attempt to carry the youth and women along in the FCT.

    She emphasised that the large crowd of party faithful was a testament to the unwavering commitment to the growth, unity, and success of APC and the progress of FCT and the nation.

    Also, speaking at the stakeholders meeting, FCT Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Hon. Abdulmalik Usman commended stakeholders for their tireless efforts in ensuring that the party remained united.

    He said: “I have said it before that the dedication of all members has continued to solidify APC’s position as the ruling party and the preferred choice of the people.

    “Today, our collective resolve is key to sustaining the dominance of APC as the ruling party. We will continue to deliver dividends of democracy to our people and build a stronger, more prosperous nation.”

  • Omo-Agege earned leadership of Delta APC, deserves support – Emiko

    Omo-Agege earned leadership of Delta APC, deserves support – Emiko

    A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State and a prominent prince of Warri Kingdom, Prince Yemi Emiko, has declared that Senator Ovie Omo-Agege has rightfully earned the leadership of the APC in Delta State.

    Speaking at an interactive meeting with leaders and stakeholders hosted by Warri South LGA, Emiko criticised those attempting to claim party leadership without tangible contributions to the party’s success.

    He said that leadership is earned, not enforced or acquired, and expressed dismay that individuals who contributed little to APC’s historic victories in Delta were positioning themselves as leaders through media appearances.

    Emiko, who was the APC Delta South senatorial candidate in the 2015 elections, stressed that political leadership must be built from the grassroots.

    He urged those aspiring for leadership to return to their units and wards, mobilise support and show results.

    “All politics is local. If you want to lead, you must deliver your ward and local government. Omo-Agege has earned the leadership of Delta APC through hard work and grassroots mobilisation—not by making empty claims on social media,” he stated.

    He called on APC leaders and members to unite behind Omo-Agege, stating that if the party remains solidly behind him, it will sweep PDP out of Delta in 2027.

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    According to him: “Omo-Agege, you have earned the leadership of Delta APC. Those jumping around in Abuja have no local base. Elections are not won on social media but through grassroots mobilisation.

    “Leadership is about results, and with APC winning two out of three senatorial seats for the first time in Delta’s history, there is no doubt that Omo-Agege is our leader.”

    Omo-Agege expressed gratitude to APC leaders and members for their sacrifice and unwavering support.

    He acknowledged that while APC secured significant victories in the Senate and House of Assembly elections, it fell short of clinching the governorship. However, he remained optimistic about the party’s future.

    On internal party disputes, Omo-Agege said that while reconciliation is important, it must be genuine and not just political rhetoric.

    “I don’t know any politician who doesn’t want reconciliation. Everyone talks about it because, as they say, talk is cheap. But let’s be honest—talking is easy; real reconciliation requires action. We have done everything possible, and we are still ready to do more, but only if it is genuine and based on a shared determination to win.”

    He criticised past “purported attempts” at reconciliation, stating that no real efforts had been made to bring opposing party leaders together for meaningful discussions since the 2023 elections. Instead, false narratives were pushed, claiming that certain person and his team rejected reconciliation.

    “The last thing we heard was, ‘They don’t want reconciliation.’ That was the story. But was there ever a real attempt to reconcile? No. It was all talk, and talk alone doesn’t build unity. In politics, no one can win an election alone—it takes a collective effort.”

    Reflecting on the 2023 elections in Warri South LGA, Omo-Agege said after reviewing the results, he believed APC had actually won, despite alterations. “Even with the changes made to the results, the margin was very small. We know we won in this local government. But moving forward, we must be more vigilant and strategic to prevent any manipulation.”

    Looking ahead to 2027, Omo-Agege urged his supporters to remain focused, work harder, and strengthen the party’s grassroots presence. He acknowledged the sabotage that occurred during the last election, noting that the APC will be better prepared next time to forestall internal sabotage. Additionally, he said the party will take steps to prevent the falsification of election results.

    Omo-Agege urged APC members to stay united and committed to the party’s success, stressing that Delta’s future depends on collective effort and holding leaders accountable. “We must work together. The task ahead is not just about politics—it is about securing the future of Delta State. With unity, strategy, and determination, we will take APC to victory in 2027,” he said.

  • Group hails Tanko Yakasai’s appointment as Tinubu’s support group DG

    Group hails Tanko Yakasai’s appointment as Tinubu’s support group DG

    A group, Friends of Seyi Tinubu (FOST), has commended appointment of Dr. Umar Tanko Yakasai as the Director General of Tinubu Support Group (TSG).

    FOST said Yakasai’s appointment was a recognition of his exceptional leadership, unwavering dedication and tireless commitment to the advancement of progressive governance in Nigeria. 

    A statement by President of the group, Com. Adejorin Tai Manuel noted that Yakasai over the years has demonstrated strong passion for national development, political engagement, and grassroots mobilization qualities that make him well-suited for this critical position.

    The statement reads: “As an influential figure within the political landscape, Dr. Yakasai’s leadership will undoubtedly strengthen the mission and vision of the Tinubu Support Group in promoting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. 

    “His experience, strategic mindset, and deep understanding of governance will be instrumental in fostering unity, driving policy advocacy, and ensuring the continued success of the group in its objectives.

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    “We believe that under his guidance, the Tinubu Support Group will play a pivotal role in mobilizing support, enhancing political awareness, and contributing to the broader goal of sustainable national development. 

    “His tenure as Director General will mark a new chapter of innovation, collaboration, and impactful initiatives that will further solidify the legacy of good governance and progressive leadership in Nigeria.

    “As he embarks on this new responsibility, we at FOST pledge our unwavering support and confidence in his ability to deliver on the expectations of this role. We encourage all stakeholders and well-meaning Nigerians to work together in ensuring that the ideals of progressive governance are upheld for the betterment of our nation.

    “Once again, we congratulate Dr. Umar Tanko Yakasai and wish him a successful tenure filled with remarkable achievements.

  • How Oborevwori executes project without borrowing, curbs financial waste

    How Oborevwori executes project without borrowing, curbs financial waste

    With Delta state accelerating its pace of infrastructure development, OKUNGBOWA AIWERIE, highlights Governor Sheriff Oborevwori prudent financial management strategy in a bid for value for money and drive the local economy.

    Delta Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has continued to bask in the warm afterglow of national media spotlight on the back of a string of accolades from diverse groups, recognising his strides in infrastructure development, bestowed on him “Governor of the 2024 Award”.

    The dust, on the prestigious THISDAY/Arise Media Group for fiscal discipline and infrastructural development of the state held last year in Lagos, had hardly died down, when, yet another news outfit, New Telegraph, honoured him for his  commitment to the development of the state’s infrastructure.

    Two other groups, National Association of Delta State Students in conjunction with the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) followed in their footsteps, by presenting him with a Merit Award in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the educational sector.

    NADESSTU President, Monday Wiska, said the award celebrates Governor Oborevwori’s achievements, including approval for year 2023 and 2024 bursary payment to 30,116 and 32,028 students respectively.

    Wiska also listed enhanced access to quality education, improved infrastructure in schools, and promotion of educational reforms that support student’s development as other reasons for the award.

    Despite delivering so much at frightening pace, Oborevwori has promised to do even “more”, in clear alignment with the overarching mission of his M.O.R.E agenda, a social contract he entered into with Deltans upon assumption of office in 2023.

    The State Commissioner for Works( Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu Mr Aniagwu said the state government had not borrowed a dime and had paid loans obtained by previous administrations to the tune of N240billion.

    He said, “First of all not only that Delta is not borrowing under the Oborevwori administration, he has paid over N240 billion in the last 20 months to service or defray existing contractual obligations as well as some other funds that came in form of loan in the past.

    “So for you to know that he is not only just funding infrastructure today I’m not too sure you have heard of anybody going to the streets to protest that they have not been paid pension.

    “Oborevwori’s prudence is such that he works hard to properly preserve government funds for the good people of the state, by cutting off a whole lot of things that could have led to wastages.

    “For instance there was another novel approach he brought to prudence and financial management where he proposed a reduction in the profit margin for some contracts upon 40 percent mobilisation.

    “He argued that since the state usually provide contractors 40% mobilization, we are first of all saving them the agony of raising cost of funds should they have proceeded to go to any financial institution to ask for such funds.

    “When we looked at these parameters from just about five different memos, we were able to save N4.5 billion, yet the contractors were still very much interested in carrying out such projects.”

    He attributed the state’s solvency to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s financial management abilities which he said is “anchored on fiscal discipline, prudence and accountability”.

    Mr. Charles Aniagwu who spoke in an interview on a live television programme monitored in Asaba, said Governor Oborevwori’s greatest asset was being underrated, adding that by his governance philosophy, the Governor had continued to confound his critics with tangible proofs and accolades across the state and country.

    According to him, Governor Oborevwori is likened to that book that almost everybody judged by its cover and by the time they attempted to open the book they discovered that it’s not written in French language but in pure English.

    “All the facts that you need to know about certain things that you thought are not possibly available in that book are all put together in that book.

    “One of Oborevwori’s greatest assets is the fact that he is underrated, his financial management abilities is almost second to none.

    “Let me inform you that even as the Speaker of the State House of Assembly for six years at the end of his tenure he returned N500 million unspent funds to the state coffers so when you look at the story of people who are usually there as politicians in different levels you will understand what that means.

    “When we thought that was a flash in the pan that maybe it was just one of those things but we didn’t know that that is his pure characteristics and leadership style.

    “When we say that Delta today is solvent we are not solvent because we contracted a native doctor to help us preserve our funds.

    “We are solvent because Oborevwori is demonstrating a whole lot of accountability and prudence in the management of our resources.

    “Two weeks ago when we had our first EXCO meeting for the year 2025 we approved projects worth over N275 billion naira. Not only that we approved those projects, the governor was also magnanimous for us to proceed to mobilize each of the contractors wit 40 percent of the contract sum.

    “We have been doing that since he came in and that is why you can see that a number of these projects are moving with speed.

    “Beyond the issue of giving out this 40%, there are a number of projects that are on Irrevocable Standing Payment Order (ISPO), where in which case every month, certain amount of funds kicks in.

    “The moment you present your certificate in terms of milestones, the state pays.”

    Aniagwu further said Oborevwori was carrying out the projects across the three senatorial districts without sentiments.

    “There are so many things that he has done in terms of taking on big projects, in terms of carrying the three senatorial districts, irrespective of ethnic differences, along.

    “Of course, Delta is a multi-ethnic state. Irrespective of even political affiliation, he’s carrying everybody along. That is why you see that even when the few pockets of opposition speak to certain issues that are at variance with reality, Oborevwori doesn’t waste time responding to those issues.

    “He only concentrates more on the projects as a means of response to those criticisms and today, all we ask people is, tell us your local government and then we will tell you what Oborevwori is doing there.”

    He said Governor Oborevwori introduced a novel approach to the budget that was equitable, fair and just, adding” the Governor was able to come up with a novel idea in our budgeting approach and good enough, my ministry was saddled with that responsibility of implementing certain funds across the 25 local government areas.

    “In 2024, we provided one billion for roads alone and that is a specific intervention, because that is not the only amount we provided, but for specific intervention so that even if you don’t have a big man or you don’t have anybody speaking for your local government, that fund is there and must be spent in your local government.

    “Having seen the magic in terms of the level of infrastructure we are able to implement using that model, in the 2025 budget, Governor Oborevwori directed that over N2.1 billion should be provided for the purpose of short intervention across the local government areas.

    “It might interest you to note that even the EXCO we had less than two weeks ago, we approved projects across more than 80% of the local governments in Delta, in one EXCO.

    “So anybody who wakes up and says they have no idea of what we are doing, we don’t even need to say what are you talking about.

    “We say please, can you tell us your local government so let us even know whether you are among those who don’t visit home.”

    Despite the flurry of construction activities across the state, Gov Oborevwori has prioritised some legacy projects.

    These include but not limited to the N78 billion contract for the construction of three flyovers, a cloverleaf, pedestrian bridges and ancillary road expansion projects in the oil-rich Effurun and Warri metropolis, completion of Ughelli- Asaba Dualization project, Trans Ode Itsekiri Bridge project, remodeling of the Warri Township stadium and Asaba Waterfront City.

    During an inspection, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, said the project was conceived by the previous administration through a Public Private Partnership (PPP) Model.

    He said the state government’s role was to construct a 6-lane access road to the new city, while the developers were expected to reclaim the land and develop the city.

    He said: “Asaba is becoming very attractive to property developers who are coming from Lagos to Asaba because Asaba today is housing most of those people from the South-East.

    “They are coming here because they find Asaba very comfortable and they know that we are also hospitable.

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    “The Asaba waterfront city project is a Public Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement between the state government and the developers.

    “Our obligation is to reclaim the place to give them an access route, a six-lane access road, to this place. They have done about 20 percent of this job; the challenge they are having is the buildings on the right of way.

    “We have released money for compensation to the property owners and we have also released funds to the contractor for the project.

    “They have assured us they will complete the road project in July; so, I have come here to look at the work that has been done and I am happy that they are on site.

    “If they continue at this speed, I know that before the end of this year, the project will be completed.”

    In a bid to combat poor quality and get value for tax payers money, Gov Oborevwori launched a whistle-blowing policy to enable citizens report poor quality and substandard projects delivery in the state.

    Speaking through an aide, Oborevwori said: “So today we are launching a new partnership, and a partnership that emphasizes that Deltans do have a role in governance under the Oborevwori administration.

    “As part of that demonstration of that invitation to join us in governance and ensure that value for money is given its pride of place in the administration of Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori.

    “We are launching our whistleblower line and that the line, even before we made it public, is already functional.

    “Our whistleblower line is a line that is designed for people to reach out to us. Our people in Delta, we want them to be able to interact with government. If any project in your community is going on and you feel that either the contractor or the supervising ministry is performing below what you see or believe it should be the standard, our whistleblower line is for you to be able to reach out to us.

    “You can send text messages, WhatsApp messages and we also  encourage pictures and videos if possible.

    “We are using it to ensure that our people who are living in their respective communities participate in our governance process so that it is not only the ministry, or the officials of government that will be able to talk to us or talk to the government with respect to projects that are within your community.”

  • Former PDP chairman hails affirmation of Odeifa’s expulsion

    Former PDP chairman hails affirmation of Odeifa’s expulsion

    Former Ebonyi chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and 2024 senatorial candidate, Silas Joseph Onu, has welcomed the expulsion of the party’s National Vice Chairman, South East Zone, Ali Odefa. 

    The Federal High Court sitting in Abakaliki, Tuesday affirmed the expulsion of the embattled Odefa

    The judgment affirmed the decision of his Ward Executive Committee to expel him for anti-party activities after he was earlier suspended. 

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    Onu alleged Odefa is believed working for Oyo Governor Seyi Makinde, covering his interest in the region ahead of his rumoured  2027 presidential bid. 

    Silas Onu, a lawyer said: “His expulsion has been long overdue and having it affirmed today is a great news for the PDP. We await to see how the Oyo Governor will now overrule the Federal High Court decision, seeing that he had encouraged the disobedience of other” judgments in the past.”

  • Hunyinsode rallies support for Setonji David as LAHA speaker

    Hunyinsode rallies support for Setonji David as LAHA speaker

    A chairmanship aspirant for Badagry Local Government Area, Hon. Moses Sogotho Hunyinsode, has urged President Bola Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC) leadership in Lagos State to support Hon. Setonji David for the position of Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly.

    In a statement issued on Tuesday, Hunyinsode emphasised David’s experience and political positioning, arguing that Badagry Division deserves the Speakership following the tenure of former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa from Ikeja Division.

    He argued that since the former Speaker, Obasa, hails from Ikeja Division—both of which fall under Lagos West—it is only fair for Badagry Division to produce the next Speaker.

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    He highlighted David’s credentials, noting that he has been in the Assembly since 2015, representing Badagry Constituency 02, and currently serves as Chief Whip. Previously, he also held the position of Deputy Chief Whip.

    Hunyinsode, who serves as Supervisor for Information in Badagry LGA, described David as a seasoned politician and accomplished engineer. 

    He noted that David, a former Chairman of the Nigerian Institution of Civil Engineers (NICE), Lagos Chapter, played a key role in major Lagos State infrastructure projects during his 25-year service in government.

    “As Resident and Chief Resident Engineer, he supervised multiple road construction projects across the state and his expertise was instrumental in the Restoration and Stabilisation of the Lagos Bar Beach Shoreline Protection Project – a pioneering initiative in Nigeria and the West African subregion. 

    “Additionally, he was the pioneer Project Engineer for the renowned Eko Atlantic City reclamation project, further solidifying his reputation as a forward-thinking engineer committed to sustainable development,” Hon. Hunyinsode stated.

    He emphasised that David’s emergence as Speaker would help to compensate Badagry Division and Badagry federation for its solid performance in the 2023 presidential election that brought President Tinubu into office.