The Nation Newspaper

Category: Politics

  • Ekiti 2014: The odds against Fayose

    Ekiti 2014: The odds against Fayose

    Unperturbed by the fierce opposition to his victory at the primary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Mr. Ayo Fayose’s confidence that he would pull an upset in the Ekiti State governorship poll come June 21 has not waned. He, however, has a huge hill to climb to make his dream come true, writes Assistant Editor, Remi Adelowo

    Controversial politician, Ayo Fayose, never gets tired of referring to himself as a street-wise, grassroots politician with the magic wand to win elections.

    Responding to a question on his chances against the incumbent governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, in the forthcoming governorship election in the state, Fayose said rather boastfully: “I will defeat Fayemi just like I defeated his godfather, Niyi Adebayo.”

    The Afao Ekiti-born politician, who crept into the political consciousness of the South West state in the early 2000, was apparently referring to his unexpected victory against the then incumbent governor, Otunba Niyi Adebayo, in the 2003 governorship election.

    But can he re-enact his 2003 feat against an incumbent, who has received applause within and outside the state on account of his impressive performance in the last three years? Within Fayose’s camp, confidence has soared that he has all it takes to challenge Fayemi at the polls.

    The Nation gathers that Fayose’s optimism has also been boosted based on the support he is receiving from the presidency and the national leadership of his party, which recently issued him the Certificate of Nomination in spite of objections by other aspirants who contested for the PDP ticket against Fayose.

    Sources disclosed that Fayose’s victory at the primary gladdened the hearts of the powers-that-be, who regard him as a “rugged politician that can deliver when the chips are down.”

    Albeit for a different reason, we learnt that palpable excitement also rent the air in Governor Kayode Fayemi’s campaign organisation as soon as the news of Fayose’s victory at the PDP primary filtered in.

    This is because Fayemi’s supporters and many other stakeholders in the state believe that PDP’s choice of Fayose, in spite of his “political baggage,” could ensure a smooth sail for Fayemi in an election believed to be a three-horse race among three political parties, the All Progressives Congress (APC), the Labour Party (LP) and the PDP.

    A house divided within

    Following the controversial primary that produced Fayose, other aspirants including a former deputy governor of the state, Abiodun Aluko; former Minister of Police Affairs, Caleb Olubolade; Senator Gbenga Aluko; Adeyanju Bodunde; Omoyeni Adebisi, to mention but a few, have repeatedly argued that Fayose will be a hard sell for the party.

    Speaking with reporters in Abuja last week, Aluko reiterated the opposition of the G13 to Fayose, who, he claimed, is facing serious charges in various courts.

    Aluko added, “In most communities in Ekiti, it is shameful to be seen following Fayose. As a matter of fact, the majority of our people are now saying that it is better to stick with Gov. Kayode Fayemi than to follow Fayose.”

    Warning the national leadership of the PDP on the consequences of fielding Fayose, Aluko continued, “Already, our party is facing a serious meltdown in Ekiti. But if the PDP insists on fielding Fayose, a majority of our supporters will leave the party…if they insist on Fayose, we wish them good luck. June 21 is around the corner.”

    Posers over Fayose’s eligibility to contest

    Beyond the opposition within the PDP against Fayose, questions are also being asked as to whether the former governor is eligible to contest the June 21 governorship election having been impeached in 2006 by the state House of Assembly.

    Fayose, according to Aluko, “is not eligible to contest any election until 2016 when his impeachment would have run the mandatory 10-year period of grace.

    The recent ruling by an Ekiti High Court that the PDP candidate has a case to answer in respect of the N1.2billion poultry farm case instituted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is also being cited by many PDP stakeholders as sufficient enough to ‘replace Fayose with a credible candidate.’

    Will traditional rulers support Fayose?

    During his iron-fist rule as governor from 2003 to 2006, the fear of Fayose was the beginning of wisdom for many traditional rulers in the state.

    The running battle the former governor had with the traditional institution while his tenure lasted has once again taken the front burner as campaign for the governorship election gets under way.

    However, his undisguised cold relationship with the Ewi of Ado Ekiti, Oba Rufus Adejugbe, generated the most tension, with Fayose once allegedly threatening to depose the influential monarch.

    There are insinuations in certain quarters that the monarchs, who largely determine the pattern of voting in their respective domain, may work against Fayose at the poll.

    But in a recent interview, Fayose dismissed reports that he is not in the good books of traditional rulers in the state, noting, “I have a cordial relationship with a majority of the traditional rulers in Ekiti. They are solidly behind me. Just wait and see.”

    Between Ekiti elites and Fayose

    As governor, it was an open secret that Ayo Fayose brooked no opposition. His usual refrain was: “you are either for me or against me.”

    For the elites who dared to call his bluff, they have a not-too-palatable story to tell.

    One of such influential indigenes is Chief Afe Babalola, a foremost Senior Advocate of Nigeria, who is revered as one of the founding fathers of Ekiti.

    His disagreement with Fayose was alleged to be one of the reasons the then president, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, who is a close friend of the respected lawyer, moved against the former governor and subsequently imposed a state of emergency in the state.

    Will Babalola, the Founder of Afe Babalola University (ABUAD), whose voice carried tremendous weight in Ekiti, throw his support behind Fayose? That is a puzzle many are eager to unravel.

    Another prominent lawyer, Mr. Femi Falana, who is an indigene of Ilawe Ekiti, is also an unrepentant critic of Fayose.

    On more than one occasion, Falana had been involved in a verbal warfare with the then sitting governor over his alleged autocratic style.

    Igbimo Ekiti yet to take a stand

    The Igbimo Ekiti, the umbrella organisation of all Ekiti indigenes led by former Secretary of Health, Chief Julius Adelusi-Adeluyi, The Nation gathered, will play a major role in determining where the pendulum of victory will swing in the June 21 election.

    While the organisation has not taken a formal position on the candidate to support at the election, it is, however, believed that a majority of its members are positively disposed to Governor Fayemi’s re-election.

    With all these odds against Fayose, it remains to be seen how far he can go in the June 21 poll.

  • Obiano: The first seven days

    Obiano: The first seven days

    If it is true that morning actually shows the day,then, citizens of Anambra State may already be getting value for affirming “continuity” when they voted for Chief Willie Obiano in the last gubernatorial elections thereby assuring a smooth transition from Governor Peter Obi to Governor Willie Obiano. Whereas Obi’s exit strategy was to finish strong hence he was commissioning projects up to his last day in office; the new governor, Obiano, practically hit the ground running with a flurry of activities at Government House, Awka and some parts of the state involving project meetings, consultations and inauguration of committees. In fact, Obiano’s emphatic take-off has left keen observers, and students of government beating their chest that indeed Anambra is on the cusp of great things in the days and months ahead.

    While it may be very early in the day to draw conclusions on the factors that would define Obiano’s tenure as governor of Anambra State, skeptics of his abilities in government had reasoned that the first week activities are not enough yardstick to determine his grasp of the flow and ebb of bureaucracy. On the other hand, there is course for optimism amongst those who knew and believe in Akpokuodike’s abilities at surmounting the odds. Some political pundits have surmised that the carnival-like inauguration of Obiano and the seamless pace of activities in Awka Government House since then are signs of good things to come.

    Obiano’s first week in office started on a high note after the Monday 17th March 2014 colourful inauguration and handover ceremony at Alex Ekwueme Square, Awka. Next day, the new governor appeared at his desk in Government House and commenced work in earnest. His first major assignment was the first Executive Council meeting, and thereafter, he appointed three principal officers and observed their swearing-in. The officers include; Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Oseloka Obaze;  Chief of Staff, Professor Joseph Asike and the Principal Secretary, Mr. Willie Nwokoye. While the SSG was retained at his post from the previous administration, the two others came armed with experience from the ivory tower and the private sector respectively.

    Unfortunately, as often seen in these climes allusions are already being made in some quarters to the fact that the Governor, Secretary to the State Government and the Speaker are all from Anambra North Senatorial District. But then it is a fact that the exigencies of delivering good governance outweigh parochial considerations in situations that were not necessarily created by the new governor. Whereas the SSG was retained at his post; the Speaker has been functioning as elected in that capacity. As would be expected of a focused technocrat, Obiano marched-on unperturbed to the next assignment.

    Next stop was a meeting with members of the Anambra State House of Assembly where he set the tone for a mutually respectful partnership that will bring great benefits to Anambra State. Addressing the lawmakers, Obiano said “Long before I began to take political leadership seriously, I had always known that any democracy without a strong parliament is a farce! I have known that the legislature is the true backbone of democracy and the single most important repository of the sovereign will of the people.”

    Obiano told the lawmakers, “I have no doubt that if Anambra State is to make the long anticipated transition from merely aspiring to greatness to attaining actual greatness, my administration must close ranks with you. We must work together to unlock the potentials of our people and launch Anambra into a new phase of development.”

    Preaching the same message of respect for separation of powers and checks and balances, the Governor observed at a meeting with Judges on Wednesday 19th march, 2014 that since our country’s recent return to democracy, nowhere has the Judiciary played its role as the last hope of the common man as it has done in Anambra State. As Obiano put it: “Anambra’s great history with the courts does not only underscore the importance of your role in our developing society; it also shows that Ndi Anambra are increasingly becoming aware that their grievances can always be fully addressed in a court of law. This is a sign of growth. We have turned 360 degrees from where we once were to where we must be.”

    The Chief Judge of Anambra State, Justice Peter Umeadi, later took the governor round the Judiciary and High Court complex to take stock of structures and facilities that needs rehabilitation and replacement with a view to assisting in quick dispensation of Justice.

    Same day Obiano inaugurated the agricultural committee and charged them to create agricultural revolution in Anambra State.  He told the committee, headed by Professor Emeka Omaliko, “You were selected for your expertise and we want you to make specific and actionable recommendations that would enable us achieve set targets.”

    To underscore the importance of peace and security in the 189 communities in Anambra State, Obiano fast-tracked consultation meetings with the royal fathers and the Anambra Council of Elders. He told the traditional rulers and elders council, that “as custodians of our culture and tradition; leaders of thought and elders in communities, you have a big role to play in setting the ethical and moral tone for Ndi Anambra and Ndigbo in general.”

    In the same vein, the governor charged the leadership of the Association of Anambra State Town Unions (ASATU), made up of the Presidents Generals of the 189 communities in Anambra State; “My administration is sparing no effort in the fight against the criminal elements that have changed the reputation of our cities. It is high time we gave red card to criminals in Anambra State and that is where you come-in. As leaders of our town unions, you must always stand up for what is right in our society, you must device a mechanism for identifying the bad eggs living among you, while we are creating better jobs for those willing to work.” Obiano warned the ASATU to avoid the niggling friction between them and the traditional rulers, and assured that his administration will work hard to eliminate the friction and build understanding that will preserve the peace in Anambra State.

    He also threatened to penalize contractors and consultants handling government projects some of whom were suspected to be doing shoddy jobs.  Addressing a large group of local and foreign contractors and consultants at the Conference Hall of Government House, Awka, Obiano threatened to terminate the job of any contractor found to be performing below expectation.

    He declared that his relationship with consultants would be based strictly on performance. “We will be checking the quality of your work and so long as you are doing your job as agreed, you won’t have problems with us.  For people doing designs for us, we want the best quality in terms of designs.”

    In the midst of the tight schedule, Obiano showed his humane disposition when he ran to the rescue of some students involved in an accident admitted at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Teaching Hospital, Nnewi. The Governor did not only pick the health bill and assisted the hospital’s power supply, he also touched on his health policy for Anambra State.

    Obviously Governor Obiano’s accomplishments during the first week didn’t escape the attention of ndi Anambra. Already, people are taking stock of his steps in leadership, and not a few were willing to proffer opinions. Mrs. Oby Ude, a civil servant, could not hide her feelings: “The man has come with a lot of enthusiasm. You can see he knows what he wants done. I must say there is business-like approach in how he goes about governance and getting everyone around him to do things.” On his part, Jerry, a Contractor had this impression about Obiano, “this man is a non-nonsense man. I pity those who will think he is not ready to bite. They may not know it yet but this is good.”

    Perhaps the most telling of the observations, comes from Tessy Okonkwo, a broadcast Journalist, “I have observed and heard Governor Obiano since the Inauguration. I have seen him speak and read his lips while speaking. The man is believable and you can almost feel it, there is a new hope for a better Anambra. My prayer is that he sustains the pace that I have seen.”

    The signs are there, and no one is left in doubt that Obiano has started creating his Governorship footprints.

  • Why Fayemi deserves second term

    Why Fayemi deserves second term

    One of the commonly heard refrains in Ekiti State, especially the capital, Ado-Ekiti, now that the gubernatorial race is hard by, is: “Fayemi will coast home – like the famous sprinter, Jamaica-born Usain Bolt – to bag yet another gold medal, in recognition of his brilliant performance in the administration of the state.” At Adekunle Fajuyi Square, in Ado- Ekiti, not so long ago, a group of professionals, university teachers, employers of labour, students, skippers of non-governmental organisatons, pensioners, representatives of road transport workers union, amongst others, said over a period of four days, that Fayemi was the one everyone in the gubernatorial race would have to beat. Said a second-year university student, Yemisi Oladoyin-Olajide: “Fayemi looks certain to trounce every one of his challengers in the governorship race. He deserves my vote.”

    Indeed, as most of the interview subjects said, Fayemi’s name is literally written in almost all the towns and villages of Ekiti State, which is, interestingly, one of the most homogeneous states in the Nigerian federation. “Fayemi”, said a lecturer at the Department of Political Science, University of Ado-Ekiti, who craved anonymity “is synonymous with the development and attendant transformation of Ekiti State: Fayemi means good roads; Fayemi is another name for peace, security and orderliness; by Fayemi, most of the people of Ekiti State will tell you, reference is made to rural development, which comes with the empowerment of farmers, swift response to the needs of the thousands of pensioners in the state; the name Fayemi reminds me and a majority of the people of Ekiti State of food security, a promising improvement in electricity supply, prompt payment of workers’ salary, within the limits of available resources in the state government’s till; Fayemi, put tersely, symbolises transparency, good governance, aggressive, but constructive, drive  for internally-generated revenue, aimed at fattening the revenue base of the state.”  The lecturer from Oye community,  who said he had a picture of Fayemi proudly nailed at a visible point in his office, added that “far from being patronising, Fayemi has, so far, placed Ekiti State on a very high pedestal. His record of people-oriented development and urban renewal, such that poverty is fast receding from the affairs of the state; tax-payers are happy with him; so are pensioners (my aged dad one); add school children and women, who are pleased that Ekiti State, under the Fayemi administration, is a region of peace; a veritable tourists’ mecca, as a result.”

    A warrior – because he’s well conversant with the laws and principles of conflict; an unblinking apostle of Awoism – because he has followed the late sage’s political examples and applied his style of leadership to his administration in Ekiti State; and as one of the numerous activists who fought – at great risks – for an end to stratocracy, in the interest of democracy, Fayemi has, thus, made it almost a fait accompli that he is well-deserving  of a second term in office, since  he sits high in all the people’s hearts – especially tax-payers and voters.

    Not surprising though, as one psephologist  and Programme Director at Centre for Good Governance and Poverty Alleviation, Ado-Ekiti, Mr. Adekunle Ade-Marthenes, 54, said, “the fact that Fayemi is synonymous with administrative brilliance, which makes him the best governor, in nearly two decades’ history of the state, makes one think that he actually did his homework, thoroughly, before offering to serve. One suspects that Fayemi knew well that public administration needs the guts of a warrior, especially in a state like Ekiti, which was why, as someone who has studied conflicts at top educational level, he felt competent to govern the state. Besides, it takes the war strategy of a Fayemi, who had to fight back, in the face of hairless injustice after the 2007 elections, to launch a debilitating, massive counter-attack –  with a touch of Ekiti parapo – against his enemy to claim victory at the law court.

    Ade-Marthenes, who wears a shiny, black toothbrush moustache,  argues that in that historical victory, Fayemi – and impliedly the APC – passes well for a rejection of electoral fraud. He argues, further, that because of the Fayemi administration’s serpentine list of people-oriented feats, it would be an interesting academic exercise to probe into why all the governors of Ekiti state, save only Fayemi, were pretty far from being responsive to the aspirations and needs of the people of the state. Said Ade-Martenes: “All past governors ought to be compelled to give an account of their stewardship.” Well . . .

    But what is paramount to all stakeholders in Ekiti politics, for now, is the 2014 gubernatorial race. And if a majority of them  agree that , indeed, there’s little vacancy at the State House, in  Ado-Ekiti, it may well be because Fayemi, the incumbent, has, in keeping with Abraham Lincoln’s “with malice to none, but charity to all”,  inadvertently, rented every available space with people-oriented projects – in justification of the tax-payers’ money. Such projects could be found in areas where the leaders are vociferously censorious of the APC. Currently, there is a spirit of latter-day Ekiti parapo, as drums are being beaten, enthusiastically, is support of Fayemi’s campaign for a second-term in office.

    •Uzuakpundu is a Lagos-based journalist.

  • ‘PDP, LP can’t dislodge APC’

    ‘PDP, LP can’t dislodge APC’

    The Director General, Kayode Fayemi Campaign Organisation, Hon. Bimbo Daramola, is a member of the House of Representatives from the Ekiti North Constituency 1. He spoke with Sulaiman Salawudeen the proposed election and other issues.

    How far with the campaigns?

    The Dr. John Kayode Fayemi Campaign Organisation has not started any form of campaigns. We are waiting until INEC blows the whistle. If you see posters out there, billboards on Facebook, they are from people who are eager to translate or to give expression to their beliefs and convictions that we collectively nurture. They have chosen to do that via all kinds of mediums; some have used posters, others billboards, and so on. But let it be known that the Kayode Fayemi Campaign Organisation has not officially flagged off campaigns.

    What is the much-talked about Fayemi phenomenon really all about?

    I would give you a picture of the man Fayemi. One, I have the privilege of going to the same secondary school with him; he was three years my senior in Christ School, Ado-Ekiti way back to 1978. I was in class one when he was in class three. From there, we got to know ourselves and later more intimately as ex-students of Christ’s School, Ado-Ekiti. Two, I have also come to respect the man, the personae of the man called Kayode Fayemi on the basis of what he has also done outside of government and I lay claims to the fact that as an intellectual, he has proved himself where it mattered and matters. Don’t forget, by digression, this is one Governor that the world also celebrates. If he is a man who does not have content, nobody would invite him to come and present speeches at those fora abroad. Even though some people in opposition have said he (Fayemi) is always traveling, they have also forgotten that those things have a way of attracting values. When people know that this man who has just presented a speech that is bordering on development and his government has been giving expression to that. Are you now surprised that UNDP and other international donor agencies have returned to Ekiti. It is on the basis of the reputation that he has built over the years. Again, note that if he is an empty barrel, nobody would invite him to come and present speeches to knowledgable people out there; sharing platforms with the likes of Bill Clinton. So, it is also a pride to us that our governor is not a governor who the world is afraid of associating with and embracing.

    On the basis of all these, he has earned my respect.

    How did Fayemi arrive on the political scene in Ekiti?

    The story would be told one day that it was indeed Otunba Niyi Adebayo who actually headhunted Governor Kayode Fayemi not any other person. When I leave government, this is the kind of a person I want to succeed me, Adebayo was credited to have said. So, the credit that KayodenFayemi has today could also be attributed to Otunba Niyi Adebayo.

    Coming back to the preparations towards the election, what is your assessment of INEC’s registration?

    To speak about the registration at this point in time, I placed an advert on radio recently because I kept on getting feedbacks that ‘Oh, in some wards they got 291 cards, and this and that. I attended the INEC engagement session presided over be Prof Attahiru Jega, and one of the things that he said, or alluded to, did actually come in to play. For example, the impression I came off from that meeting was that the number of cards that would be available would also be number of those whose names would be in the register and whose pictures would be pasted for all to see. But, it turned out that the number of cards that came unto the filed did not match the number on the voters’ register.

    Does this not raise fears, as we have witnessed in previous elections, that INEC may not match words with action once again?

    I am not too sure that there is an applause for INEC at this point in time.

    Are we saying we already have grounds to fear that things may go wrong with the Ekiti election?

    No. I don’t want a situation where people would say, oh yes it’s an APC thing, to cry the wolf when there was no wolf in sight. Let me safely say that there is still room to correct existing lapses. But, the point is this: Jega, before he announced the date, is he not aware of the fact that there are steps to be taken? If you want pounded yam, you know it won’t just land in front of you to be eaten. You will have to go to the farm or the market and get the yam, peel it, boil it, pound it and then serve. You went ahead, naming the child still at conception. So, what I am saying is that in as much as Prof. Jega gave us a date for the exercise that is going on, he should have the presence of mind to ensure that every intention of the commission does not cast aspersions on the process. Our greatest fear in this election is not with the people. By the grace of God, John Kayode Fayemi and Ekiti people are on the same page of the same book, vis-a-vis where they want to go, how they want to see themselves in another four years. That is not in contention. We have crossed that border. Even the guys who have not made up their minds are already getting to know that we are not just looking for second term as a fashion or as a fad. But we are obligated to to let the people of Ekiti know that the only threat or one of the threats that may compromise the process would be the institution that has relevance regarding this election, including INEC and the police.

    Is there anyway in which Nigerians can bring INEC under some form of control, so that it won’t be a situation where INEC would be at liberty to do it the way it likes?

    Let me say something to you. We would respect institutions as a party. We would respect institutions as Ekiti people. We would respect institutions as a campaign organisation. But the institution must earn the respect. You cannot expect me to respect a policeman who is drunk.

    In a way you are saying INEC has already started getting things wrong?

    It appears as if INEC would not want to learn from its past. Anambra does not do Prof. Jega any good. Delta election is a minus for him. But there is always a day of recompense. I went to New York in September last year for United Nations General Assembly (UNGAS). I stayed at Hilton Metropol. Guess who I met at the reception, waiting to get into the room, Prof. Maurice Iwu. He was all by himself alone and his God and the work of his hands. The ideal thing was to go and hug him and say this is a man who has entered into hall of fame by what he has done, just like the professor who conducted the June 12, 1993 election,aqnd who insisted that Abiola must be declared winner..

    Nwosu?

    Prof. Humphrey Nwosu. But Iwu lost the moment and I am saying this as Bimbo Daramola and as the Director General of Governor Fayemi Campaign Organisation, that Prof. Jega must quickly, in quick turn around time, he must change and make things work the way of sanity, order, fairness and progress. Ekiti election is the election of the people.

    But there are beliefs that Jega himself does not really have a final say.

    “Bi’aba fi eniyan je oye awodi, o ye k’ole’gbadie” (meaning if someone has been decked in the honour of an eagle, such must be able to dive to steal chickens). If it is not possible for him to change and make things work, he can resign.

  • Ebonyi 2015: Elechi and politics of zoning

    Ebonyi 2015: Elechi and politics of zoning

    Social critic Emmanuel Ubani, contends that, since the rotational principle has never shaped the governorship election in Ebonyi State, proponents of zoning may not succeed in their bid for power shift in 2015.

    Succession politics is on the front burner in Ebonyi State. In the last few weeks, stakeholders have been canvassing for power shift to Ebonyi South. While one school of thought based its argument on flimsy and non-existent power rotation arrangement, another school holds the view that, based on morality, justice and fairness, the slot should automatically go to the South. Although it can be argued that people have their inalienable right to freedom of expression, such political tokenism is not the solution to the political and economic development challenges confronting the state. Those Ebonyians who are resident in the state will readily perceive such warped political analysis as the handiwork of some few disgruntled politicians living outside the state who feel they cannot make it to the highest position in the state without hiding under the banner of primordial sentiments.

    Since the advent of democratic governance in 1999, the emergence of any governor in Ebonyi State has always been rancour-free, regardless of the bloc or senatorial zone the candidate comes from. Ebonyians are highly perceptive and rational people, who always rally behind the best candidate instead of resorting to primordial sentiments.

    Any discerning person who is conversant with the politics of the state would not subscribe to the above thesis or postulations because such permutations have no place in the politics. The terms and expressions such as zoning, power rotation or “it is now our turn” are yet to find accommodation in the state’s political lexicon. Therefore, it should be seen by all and sundry as an aberration and an ill-wind that blows nobody any good and should be discarded forthwith.

    Going down memory lane, one also recalls that, way back in 1999, Dr. Sam Egwu from Ebonyi North contested alongside other candidates like Dr. Emmanuel Isu (South), Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu (South) and Hon. Nwagu Onele (Central). In the same vein, in 2011, the same scenario was re-enacted when Chief Martin Elechi from Ebonyi Central contested against Sen. Julius Ogbuenu (Central), Sen. Agboti (South) and Polycarp Nwite (North). This has been the trend in past elections.

    It is therefore, instructive that, from 1999 to 2011, there was no consensus candidate, rotation principle or zoning. All candidates, regardless of their zones and political persuasions, went through the electoral process. They participated at the primaries in their respective parties and general elections where voters voted their candidates freely without any imposition or prodding from any quarters.

    Political gladiators in our beloved state should move away from divisive politics by insisting on the best candidate who in their estimation will provide the needed leadership to move the state forward, instead of looking at candidates from the mosaic of where they come from. The name of our dear leader, Governor Martins Elechi, should not be dragged in to the mud by power mongers, who are bent on promoting anarchy and bringing backwardness to the state thus rubbishing the lofty ideals built by the founding fathers.

    Ebonyians have never toyed with the idea of rotation. Is it now after the state has become a model of democracy and good governance under the able and dynamic leadership of Martin Elechi that they will begin to drag the state backward by saying “it is now our turn”. No, Ebonyians are so enlightened and politically sophisticated to be dragged into primordial and prebendal politics. At this juncture of our democratic journey, it will be fruitless to drag the governor of the state into the cesspit of divisive politics. We should remember that, had our founding fathers allowed divisive tendencies in their ranks, the name Ebonyi State wouldn’t have seen the light to the day, as acrimony amongst the political class would have denied us the state.

    Dragging the name of Governor Elechi, a man whom everybody agree is above board, given his pedigree and antecedents, is maladroit as the Akporunkashi will never succumb to such cheap blackmail being orchestrated by paper tigers who believe that, without rotation, they do not stand a chance of winning elections. Chief Elechi is known for his democratic credentials and political astuteness and he cannot fall prey to such shenanigans.

    Instead of rotating mediocrity, corrupt and undemocratic tendencies, let’s rotate and replicate good and visionary leadership that will ensure the consolidation of good governance and democracy dividends recorded by past and present administrations.

    Even, if some individuals want to embrace the principle of power rotation at a time when the state has made giant strides in democratic governance, there should be consensus building where all the political elites from all zones come together to agree on what line of action to follow.

    As a democrat, Governor Elechi should not lend his weight behind any tendency that portend danger for the state but will always prefer to identify with the wishes and aspirations of voters who ultimately decide at the polls who becomes what.

    Any attempt by the PDP not to respect internal democracy is a recipe for anarchy and a bait for the opposition to take over power on a platter of gold.

  • Tambuwal’s 2015 calculations

    Tambuwal’s 2015 calculations

    Speaker of the House of Representatives Alhaji Aminu Tambuwal has become a beautiful bride to both the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC), even as pressure mounts on him to make a statement on his future ambition, writes Assistant Editor LEKE SALAUDEEN.

    If politics is about exploring all possibilities and seizing opportunities to achieve one’s political goal, then the Speaker, House of Representatives, Alhaji Aminu Waziri Tambuwal is, indeed, a politician. This is because he has utilised everything at his disposal to achieve his political goals.

    Tambuwal has turned a beautiful bride to both the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Party (APC). He exploits the affection both parties have for him by attending meetings and functions organised by both of them. He is often criticised by fellow PDP members for attending political events organised by the opposition. The Sokoto-born politician has always defended his action by saying that he is the Speaker of the House of Representatives and not Speaker of one particular political party.

    Following this development, Tambuwal was widely expected to formalise his move to the APC early this year by defecting to the opposition party from the PDP. But, he did not. Since then, the lawyer-turned politician has kept everyone guessing. This may however, be temporary as some insist that the Speaker’s days in the PDP are numbered. It was learnt that he had a last-minute change of mind, following a Federal High Court’s order restraining any change in the House leadership. In his ruling on the matter brought by the PDP against the House of Representatives and some of its principal officers, Justice Adeniyi Ademola ordered parties in the suit to maintain the status quo, pending the determination of the suit.

    The ruling, no doubt, is a temporary setback for Tambuwal and his colleagues in the House, who are determined to further their political ambition under the platform of the opposition.

    The Speaker has been linked with the presidential ticket of the APC for a very long time. He has neither confirmed nor refuted the claim. Others insist that he has been offered the Sokoto governorship ticket for 2015, for his loyalty to the party, even when it had little propects of playing a bigger role at the centre. Whatever the situation may be, Tambuwal’s body language suggests that he must have entered into some sort of secret pact with the opposition.

    Nevertheless, the PDP has not relented. It has mounted pressure on the Speaker in recent times to rethink his decision to dump the party, which has already lost 37 members of the House to the APC. Indeed, the opposition party was poised at a time to take over the control of the House on the grounds that it has a simple majority in the House.

    Against this background, the PDP has been making frantic efforts to keep the Speaker within the fold. The leadership of the party had in the past few months renewed its efforts to convince Tambuwal not to defect. For instance, Akwa Ibom Governor Godswill Akpabio, who enjoys a chummy relationship with the President, pleaded with him to remain in the party when he paid the governor a visit. Sources disclosed that Tambuwal’s visit followed a meeting the former Chairman of the PDP, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, had with President Jonathan where it was reportedly agreed that the Speaker could be offered Sokoto governorship ticket, if he is interested.

    Apart from asking Tabuwal to remain in the PDP, Akpabio also appealed to him to use his office to stop the defection to the APC. According to a reliable source privy to some of the closed door meetings the Speaker had with the top echelon of the PDP, the party presented the Speaker with some offers, including the retention of speakership and Sokoto State governorship ticket for the 2015 election.

    According to sources, he is weighing these options to know where he would finally pitch his tent. Although he is considering the PDP option, observers insist that the Speaker is also unaware of the dangers posed by the APC if remains with the PDP. Analysts believe that accepting the PDP offer would automatically set him against Governor Aliyu Wamakko, who is among the five former PDP governors who defected to the APC last December, following protracted crises in the party. Close associates of the Speaker disclosed that he has an unwritten agreement with Wamakko that he would defect to the APC at the right time.

    A senior aide to Wamakko recalled that all members of the House of Assembly have joined the APC. All members of the House of Representatives from Sokoto State have also defected, except the Speaker, Therefore, indications are that Tambuwal would follow his colleagues to the APC. He added that nearly all top political office holders in Sokoto State, including executive council members, local government chairmen and councillors have followed the governor to APC.

    Many have suggested that the Speaker’s may have, by his actions, suggested to the leadership of the PDP that he is Speaker of the House, not of the party. For instance, when the party leaders from the Northwest visited President Goodluck Jonathan at the Presidential Villa in January, Tambuwal and Wamakko shunned the meeting. The party leaders from the zone were in Aso Villa subsequently to assure the President of their support for his 2015 Presidential ambition. Tambuwal was not there.

    Tambuwal has also turned down his party’s directive to stop further defection in the House. He foreclosed the possibility of declaring the seats of defecting lawmakers vacant. The Speaker, at a function in Abuja, had in a veil manner conferred status on the decision on any lawmaker to defect. He contended that any attempt to stop defections was an encouragement of impunity, adding that, as the custodian of the House, he cannot promote illegality.

    He said: “All of us know that no fewer than four governors have defected from their political constituencies and issues were not made out of it. If some members representing different federal constituencies decide to defect, I don’t think it is right for anybody to expect Mr Speaker not to read any correspondence that comes to his table”.

    Analysts contend that Tambuwal would soon take a position on his neutrality. He must have to decide where his loyalty lies. He can no longer sit on the fence now that his friend and associate Wamakko has asked the Speaker to formally declare his stand. The Sokoto chapter of the APC has mandated its Tambuwal Local Government chapter to present a membership card to the Speaker.

    If Tambwal defects to the APC, as he is rumoured to be planning to do any moment from now, he would cause a major upset in the leadership structure of the House of Representatives. His defection would be the last nail on the coffin of the PDP leadership of the House. Speculations are rife that some other members of the House are also planning to defect to the APC along with the Speaker when he finally makes the move. Political observers insist that the Speaker would defect, even as they affirm that he is going to retain his seat as the Speaker.

    Public Affairs analyst Bernard Briggs is of the opinion that Tambuwal has no choice, but to move in the direction of his political associate, Wamakko. He said all the political structures in Sokoto State had been taken over by the APC. “Tambuwal is bidding for time. PDP is not a party for a progressive mind like Tambuwal,” he said.

    Briggs added: “In the case of Tambuwal, what he sees lifted before him is the lamp of his political future and not the lamp of love. He must, therefore, choose wisely because his next move could determine his political future.”

    The social critic noted that what worked in Tambuwal’s favour was his ability to carry every member of the House along in piloting the affairs of the Green Chamber. His charisma and popularity made his impeachment instigated by external forces impossible, he added.

    Tambuwal’s romance with the opposition predates his assumption of office as the Speaker. Against the zoning arrangement of the PDP, which had reserved the slot for party members from the Southwest, Tambuwal emerged as the Speaker with the support of the opposition. He reached out to the opposition leaders, who rallied support for him and eventually defeated his opponent, who was backed by the Presidency and the ruling party.

    Tambuwal started learning the legislative ropes at the inception of the Fourth Republic in 1999 while working as a Personal Assistant on Legislative Affairs to Senator Abdullahi Wali, the former Senate Leader. He acquired the experience that would see him through in his political endeavour under Senator Wali. In 2003, he dumped the PDP, the party of his principal, to run for a legislative seat as a representative of the Kebbi/Tambuwal Federal Constituency on the platform of the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) and won.

    Few months to the 2007 general elections, he defected to the Democratic Peoples’ Party (DPP), alongside the former governor of Sokoto State, Attahiru Bafarawa. But, when the DPP denied to former ANPP legislators, return tickets, he went back to the ANPP, where he eventually succeeded in picking the ticket for the election. In 2007, when the ANPP governorship candidate for Sokoto State in the 2007 election, Alhaji Aliyu Wamakko, dumped the party for the PDP, Tambuwal also went to the PDP.

  • Group seeks empowerment of youths, women

    A group in the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State has called for the repositioning of party politics, to give vulnerable groups, including youths and women more opportunities to participate in the political process. Speaking at a media briefing in Ikeja, recently, coordinators of the New Justice Forum (NJF), Olatunji Folami and Taiwo Ayedun, said it is sad that there is no succession plan in the South-west, because political leaders in the region have failed to groom future successors.

    Folami, who read from a prepared text, said the group is determined to bring back robust competition and fair play, level playing field and justice, adding “political movements should not be built around individuals, but around organisational structures.” He said the late Nelson Mandela was one of those who started a movement in South Africa. “Today, he is no more, but the movement continues,” he added.

    Folami said although members of the New Justice Forum have respect for the old Justice Forum led by the renowned grassroot mobiliser and colossus in Lagos politics, Alhaji Olatunji Hamzat, the old order has not built organisational structures that would promote competition and groom future leaders that would step into the shoes of credible leaders Asiwaju Bola Tinubu and a host of others, who have demonstrated political vision and shown commitment to good governance.

    His words: “The philosophy underpinning the coming into being of the New Justice Forum (NJF) therefore, is the determination to bring back robust competition and fair play, level playing field and justice and reposition it on the path of equity and justice for all members. This would be attained through the harnessing of the abundant energies of all members, particularly youths and women who are most vulnerable.

    “Our agenda is to identify persons with progressive orientation and great potentials who are ready to serve and lead democratically. They must be from our generation and we will work to put them forward for positions. Enough of old hands and old ideas. We want new blood, new ideas and new ways of doing things.”

  • ‘Youths are marginalised by the old politicians’

    ‘Youths are marginalised by the old politicians’

    Social crusade and youth development expert Samuel J. Samuel, spoke with MUSA ODOSHIMOKHE on the danger of marginalising the youths in politics and how older politicians can mentor the younger generation in the march of development.

    HOW can the youths contribute meaningfully to nation-building and development?

    I used to see Nigeria as a place where we would have development than it is now. As it were, some of us were passionate about change and took part in mobilising all the resources to making this country great. We want to see how we could make use of the resources at our disposal, to develop areas where many would think it is impossible to thread. For instance, I chose to go into agriculture, industry and become non- partisan in politics for obvious reasons. We want a situation where there is equity, progress and justice. Our fear now is that, with what is going on, something needs to be done to salvage the country. We need to talk more and, if you take a look at our past and compare it to the present, those ruling this country when I was in my 10s, 20s are still the same people ruling us at present. The people who were ministers, presidents and governors are still the same people who want to come back to power. Then I ask myself, is there anything that I had done wrong or have not done enough to deserve the position these same people are contesting for, having been there many years back?

    You think the older politicians should take the blame?

    Today, the question that is in the heart of every youth of Nigeria is that what if every old man in his 60s, 70s and above fall sick or incapacitated today? Are they saying that among the youths we cannot find leaders? If you look at Nigeria, most of those who are clamouring to come back are the same old brigade. People like General Yakubu Gowon rtd, General Mohammadu Buhari (rtd), even Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, keep featuring. I want to say that, among these people, it is only General Ibrahim Babangida that was in his 40s when he ruled the country. Our ministers, governors, commissioners were in their 20s and 30s. But, if you take a critical look, most of those who were governors, ministers and those who want to be president are the same people who have been there yesterday in similar capacity. It is time for Nigerian youths to be more involved and I think one of the key challenges of the Nigerian youths is that it appears that we have given up. If you look back to 20 years ago, Nigerian youths were very vocal. They were very strong and very active in social justice. Where are we today? We now have poverty everywhere, poverty of ideology and poverty of the mind. And when you talk of corruption, people think that it is for people who only steal money. Now, how do we ensure a country with lots of opportunity to bounce back? We have rich farmlands, resources to match the industry, but there are no jobs. Today, if you place an advertisement for one vacant position, a minimum 50,000 applicants would apply.

    If good foundation has not been laid by the elders, how can the youth follow their footstep?

    The foundation of everything is very fundamental to the development of the society. The fact that every Nigerian is born into Nigeria and he or she affirms that this is my country, serves us to an extent. But,I want to say that Nigeria of today was not like that of 70s and 80s when things were a little bit better. That was when the morale of people were stronger, when patriotism was great. But, that has changed the configuration of Nigeria. Today, a lot of people want to leave Nigeria. Those who are not running out of Nigeria cannot even entrust the welfare of Nigerians with the country. I must say something is wrong with the trust level, morale level of Nigerians. And if I may ask, why do everybody wants to be in government in Nigeria? Today, a bank Managing Director or other chief executives want to end up as a governor. People attribute the urge to be in government to the fact that they want to cut their share of the national cake. Some say it is corruption, but it goes beyond that. It goes to the level of the corruption of the mind. We also agree that there is no social justice, but, if you look at some of these things, they are actually created by the people. Social justice, equity is worth for the asking. I work in this environment some 40 years ago. Now, I want to be in government. Is it because I no longer trust myself, the system and I feel that I am the only one who can do it? And, if I don’t know, other person cannot do it? I think that is another manifestation of poverty of the mind. Poverty of the mind is what we need to address. I must say that people are working, not because they want to work. They are working because they want to live. That is why things are so tight and tough. The banking industry today, they have lots of people with target. Today, you have a young banker who tries to meet the target placed at his shoulder.

    At what point did this gap set in between the youth and the older generation?

    This gap came in as a result of military rule. But, I think it is almost a decade and half now since the democratic system came back. We have not seen anything being done to return us back to where we used to be. If you look at it, even in the military days, we still have some active social movements or some active engagements. But, after that period, what has happened? We have democracy in Nigeria now and, if am correct, it is going to 15 years. Are we saying 15 years is not enough for us to get things back? Basically, that is the reason and we need to go back to where we should be.

    How will the country get out of this mirage?

    I think what we need to do is that we need to engage more in developmental argument. You need to have different level of social group. We have the elite, the middle class and, of course, the poor or lower class. I have seen Nigeria create more billionaires. There is a need for us to create a forum that will ensure that there is a balance. But, I don’t also think we have a problem with old people ruling the country. but, does that means that the old people cannot encourage the youth? If I was in power some 20 and 40 years ago, I expect my child to assume that same position or the one better than that.

    Older politicians are saying that the youths lack experience…

    I believe that the experience the youths have is a reflection of the one they were given. And that is what the youths sleep and wake up with. The challenge that goes with this type of comments, they have that comment coming regularly. I believe the leaders should challenge the youths. I think the youths are not actually hearing them. I have not actually heard any youth coming up to say oh, I can do it. But, of course, we have youths who came into power and have performed well. We have someone like Governor Babatunde Fashola, Hon. Aminu Tambuwal , Governor Donald Duke and others. They have been very exemplary and dynamic. We cannot say youths have not been forthcoming. the argument for me is a challenge. Again, I also want to disagree because, if we say, we don’t have the experience, they cannot be right. But, whatever experience the youths have is what was given. I believe we have enough of experienced hands. if we don’t give them the chance, we will not even know the stuff we have in them. The youth needs to wake up and begin to ask more questions. We need to wake up be more active in asking questions.

    The youths are indulging in social vices and they may take this to the corridor of power…

    I think Nigeria is a country of over 160 million people. If one or two are bad, do we say we do not have them in Nigeria? I don’t like to concentrate most of the time on the weaknesses of Nigeria and the Nigerian people. I will like to concentrate on the best part of Nigeria and the best of it. Like I said the youth is a product of the elderly, and the youth cannot do worst. Today, the e-governance is in place, what this simply means is that I don’t need to see you before I do my transaction face to face with anybody. Will there be corruption, if you don’t know my face? Who will implement it. The youths, of course. The age we are now, it has got to that level of economic development and it does not cost so much. And I think that is what will bring about the change.

    The youths are recruited as thugs during election. What can be done?

    It is simple and that is the reason why I think some of the youths that are privileged should be more active in carrying this campaign of change to the nooks and crannies of Nigeria. It is impossible for any youth that is actively engaged to be employed as a thug. I want to believe that the youths are allowed to waste. They are called upon whenever odd things are happening. That is why they are creating a society where you have youths that are easily recruited for the odd jobs. So, the youths should start engaging in things that will help the society more. And, if we do that, I believe that we will have the kind of things that will help the society. For example, an idle mind is the devil’s workshop. But, we have to work on that.

    Is there any way the youth can be reorganised to effect political change?

    People talk so much about the change that we have seen in the world recently. And they are wondering whether this could happen in Nigeria or not? This is the reason it happens in countries where it happens. It is because the youths were actually empowered. In Nigeria, can we mobilise? The reason why it is very difficult in Nigeria is because it is expensive. But, I think the Nigerian youths can mobilise and that is why the youths should empower themselves. That is where they need to get it right and the first source of empowerment is education. We have Boko Haram, the Niger Delta crisis with the youths making up the numbers. We have all kinds of things going on Nigeria. This is because the youths have not been properly engaged. All the things you see are all about mobilisation. If people can mobilise the people for this kind of cause, I believe that we can also mobilise for a country that will get the youths to be more engaged in all the kinds of things that they want. The question is, do the people actually know what they want? Are we actually getting it right? If you know that, in your father’s house there are many mansions, then, you will not sleep under the tree. Everybody in Nigeria, whether you like it or not, is a politician. we may not directly be involved in politics or card carrying member of any political party. I think everybody in Nigeria who is of age, should be more engaged in participatory development.

    What is your perception of the on-going national conference?

    If you allow me, I really don’t want to talk about it. I do believe that it is worth it for people to go and sit down to talk. This is not the first time they are talking. They have always been talking and I think there are differences that we do have, which need to be ironed out. But I still believe that there are easier ways, we can achieve some of these things. But, I hope and pray that the national conference will come out with results. I do hope that whatever comes out of the national conference is subjected back the people’s support. And, of course, if we agree on the outcome, let pray it is implemented. I still believe that there are capable people there that have been brought together. I do believe that they will represent Nigeria and I think that this is another opportunity for youths in Nigeria. And by now they should be throwing up questions on the outcome they are looking forward to. And if we get more of that, it will also help this national conference for the future of Nigeria.

  • Group pledges support for APC, Amosun

    A group, ‘The Ark Group’, has been set up in Ogun State to drum support for the second term ambition of Governor Ibikunle Amosun.

    The group, which consists of professionals from diverse fields, also promised to support the All Progressive Congress (APC) in the 2015 general elections.

    In a statement in Ijebu-Ode, its co-ordinator, Mr. Gbolade Oduwole, promised to mobilise financial support for the party, ahead of the polls. He also said that members of the group will be actively involved in voter’s mobilisation and other sensitisation programmes.

    At its inaugural meeting in Ijebu Ode last week, the group reviewed the activities of the political parties. It expressed satisfaction with the on-going infrastructural renewal programme of the Amosun Administration.

    Oduwole said: “Our view is that our state has never had it so good when compared with the eight years of the PDP-led administration.

    “We seize this opportunity to warn our people not to allow themselves to be fooled by the reactionaries gathering in other parties.

    “The APC has proven that it has what it takes to take our people to a higher level of development that all patriotic citizens envision for our state”.

  • Where is National Conference heading to?

    Where is National Conference heading to?

    The National Conference has been described as a jamboree by many stakeholders. Other critics have also said that it is a mere talk shop. But, President Goodluck Jonathan, who set it up, has insisted that the delegates can chart the way forward for the country. The opposition has objected, saying that the President was trying to shore up his battered image, ahead of the next presidential election. Since the conference started its deliberations, it has faced many challenges. There are mutual distrust and suspicion between delegates from the South and North. The voting pattern has also generated controversy. There are fears that the outcome may not even see the light of the day. Correspondents ONYEDI OJIABOR and DELE ANOFI examines other obstacles against consensus building at the conference.

    When President Goodluck Jonathan set up the National Conference many stakeholders dismissed it as another fruitless search for a new order. A member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Pally Iriase from Edo/Owan East/West Constituency, Edo State, said the conference was diversionary. In his view, the President was trying to divert attention from his inadequacy as a leader. He said nothing would come out of the conference.

    Explaining his objection to the conference, Iriase said: “We are a country ruled by the law and the constitution is clear. Legislative powers reside with the National Assembly. But, there is no legal framework for the conference.”

    Another lawmaker, who spoke on a condition of anonymity, pointed out that the National Assembly has not appropriated any fund for the exercise. He explained that the budget for the conference is hidden under the nebulous Service Wide Vote. “Since there is no legal backing, you cannot draw money for it from the national coffers”, he added.

    Since the deliberation kicked off, delegates have not found any common ground on preliminary issues. It is not certain whether the report of the conference will be subjected to a referendum or to the National Assembly. When some delegates called for a debate on the vexed issue, it polarised the conference.

    Also, mundane issues, including sitting arrangement, have led to disagreement. On Monday, two delegates were fighting over a seat, although the seats are not labeled. Muslim leaders have also protested to the President that Christians are dominating the conference. The controversy, said Iriase, has not been resolved.

    Unlike in the past, when Nigeria savoured temporary peace when a conference was in place, the current exercise has not appealed to the Boko Haram sect. Killings by the dreadful sect has continued unabated in the North. “This means that people are only asking for good governance, instead of playing to the gallery”, added the legislator.

    The Secretary-General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Prof Ishaq Oloyede, who is a delegate, agreed that the conference may pale into a wild goose chase. He said that the handling of proceedings by the conference leadership is worrisome. Oloyede lamented that that some delegates are even demanding extra-ordinary privileges at the conference.

    “I have reservations about issues raised, how they were being raised, how insensitive some of the delegates have become. Nigeria needs more attention than this. I watched the drift of the debate and the resolution and I see how pedestrian most of the issues we are going to tackle would turn out to be,” he said.

    The conference has also been divided by religion. Efforts to provide a place of worship for Muslims sparked off quarrel as Christians, who are observing the lent period, demanded the same from the leadership. It is still an outstanding issue at the conference.

    However, a delegate, Dr. Chukwuemeka Ezeife, former governor of Anambra State. said that what has transpired at the conference was normal in democracy. He said the conference will foster unity and understanding among the ethnic groups.

    Other delegates, including Senator Florence Ita-Giwa, Pastor Tunee Bakare, radical lawyer Femi Falana, and Hassan Riwan, a youth leader from the North, have criticised the procedure adopted for the deliberation by the Chairman, Justice Idris Kutigi (rtd). Senator Ita-Giwa said that the conference did not kick off on a good note.”This confab is as a result of anger. There are people here who may not have the opportunity to this microphone and present their mission statement in the three months we are here. I suggest that two or three minutes should be given to each and every delegate to present his mission statement. Otherwise, you allow delegates to submit written statements”, she said.

    Falana was in the same frame of mind. He said: “There are 492 delegates here, brought here from all walks of life and you must expect all manners of contributions. The only unfortunate thing from the proceeding, so far, is the tendency of the secretariat to recycle those who brought Nigeria to her kneels, considering the composition of the 49- member committee that has just been drawn up.

    “The same people of expired ideas, who have fixations about Nigeria. It’s not about the Nigerian youth or women. In a committee of 492 people, only three women and no youth. Anyway, as they are consulting, we are also consulting.

    “Someone can say his territory extends to Cameroon. This is the time I expect the Chairman to say stop there, this is not the forum for that, but a conference of Nigerian. But, that is why we have not made any appreciable progress”.

    The National Chairman of the Labour Party, Dan Nwanyanwu, said that, if the conference is properly managed, it will achieve success. “We are trying to build consensus, but, it is difficult. We have seen the mutual suspicion and lack of love among the geo-political zones. This suspicion is fueled by the huge number of old people who have been in this business for so many years and are bent on using the same system that has not worked. They want us to continue to use that system that has not made us to develop, but we are saying no”, he added.

    Rilwan, said the conference was designed for the old men. He said the youths are marginalised at the debate. He also said that these elderly Nigerians were heating up the polity. He said the statement by the Lamido of Adamawa, Dr. Muhammadu Mustapha, on secession, was unnecessary. “This conference is something that must be properly worked out. This is a Nigerian project. The South and North have to come together and make sure it works for the future of this country. I want to believe that we won’t get to a situation where anyone or group would want to walk out of the Conference”, he said.