The Nation Newspaper

Category: Saturday Magazine

  • The 2024 outlook

    The 2024 outlook

    • Navigating Nigeria’s complex challenges

    It takes no extraordinary augury to discern that the road ahead for Nigeria in 2024 is bound to be rough but then, in the life of a nation or individuals, old sins and past years of wrongful living do not foreclose the possibilities of redemption. Across the country today, with countless groups and individuals wearing apathy, skepticism, distrust of leadership and indifference to government policies like a misperceived badge of honour, there is a really a herculean task ahead towards mass mobilisation for effecting positive change along various dimensions.

    As Nigeria embarks on the journey of 2024, the nation faces a multitude of entrenched issues posing significant hurdles to progress, stability, and socio-economic development. These challenges span political, economic, security, and social dimensions, demanding urgent attention and strategic solutions from policymakers, leaders, and stakeholders.

    The lingering issue of insecurity; terrorism which has been a real problem since 2009, along with banditry have grown into cross-border threats fostered by illegal mining, expanded flow of illicit arms, incessant highway abductions, and other factors.

    Insurgency by groups like Boko Haram, ethnic clashes and kidnapping continue to threaten peace and stability while effectively hindering development.

    Gory incidents like the well-coordinated invasion of about 20 communities in Plateau State over a period of two days without being thwarted by the security agencies must definitely not re-occur in 2024.

    The Tinubu administration is allocating more budgetary resources to these but the implementation of a comprehensive security strategy combining military efforts with community engagement and socio-economic development is necessary to address underlying grievances and root causes of conflicts.

    More effective policing and military operations underpinned by good intelligence-gathering along with relevant technology for surveillance will count a lot, especially as many continue to wonder why current loads of biometric data appear incapable of leading to more arrests of criminals or the prompt discovery of looted government funds.

    Secondly, Nigeria’s political challenges are exacerbated by an elite class that sees the desperate pursuit of politics and high office as an express route towards wealth accumulation but the country can address this with improved concerns for electoral integrity in 2024.

    As far as millions of Nigerians are concerned, governance inefficiencies, corruption, and ineffective leadership structures hinder progress; strengthening institutions, promoting good governance, and holding leaders accountable are imperative for effective public service delivery and fostering citizens’ confidence in the government.

    Nigeria’s electoral processes often face allegations of irregularities, manipulation, and inadequate transparency. In the elections of 2024, enhancing the integrity of elections is crucial for ensuring a fair democratic process and maintaining public trust in the government.

    Much is expected of government, the umpire and all stakeholders as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) begins with the conduct of rerun elections in 34 federal and state constituencies, made up of one in the Senate, 11 federal constituencies, and 22 state constituencies. Thereafter, the focus will be on two gubernatorial contests that are anticipated to draw the nation’s interest; the forthcoming Edo and Ondo governorship elections, scheduled for September 21st and November 16th respectively, are expected to be intense.

    One thing expected to dominate discussion this year is Nigeria’s economic struggles as government and citizens contend with challenges implanted through past years of mismanagement. For instance, the economy heavily relies on oil revenues, exposing it to the volatility of global prices; thus, diversifying the economy by investing in non-oil sectors is critical to reduce dependency and ensure sustainable growth. Current figures from the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) reflect a positive trend that requires being sustained.

    More than before, addressing fiscal deficits, stimulating job creation, and implementing inclusive economic policies are paramount in 2024; the high unemployment rate, particularly among youth, demands urgent interventions through skill development programs and investment in sectors that create jobs.

    Read Also: Re: Towards utmost freedom and less of sloganeering on Nigeria’s foreign policy in 2024

    In 2024, there’s concern regarding an imminent hike in petrol prices as this may significantly impact transportation and various businesses. Since the removal of subsidies by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in May 2023, fuel prices have surged, leading to a worsening cost-of-living crisis nationwide.

    Despite denials by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) of an impending price increase, reports indicate prices as high as N700/litre in some regions, prompting fears and an abrupt halt in fuel imports by independent marketers due to unprofitability. Conflicting statements from IPMAN and NNPCL regarding subsidies further exacerbate uncertainties around petrol but much hope is being spurred about the refinery in Port Harcourt as well as the Dangote refinery that are calibrating to effectively commence operations this year. Apart from these, the Nigeria Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) recently disclosed that while one modular refinery started production of over 170 million litres or about 3,000 trucks of petroleum products last year, three other modular facilities are nearing completion. These are Azikel Refinery with support from AFREXIM bank, Dupont Refinery in Edo State and the jetty and FAT for the Inside Battery Limit (ISBL) of the Atlantic Refinery modular refinery.

    For 2024, perpetual vehement critics see no hope in the Federal Government’s N28.77 trillion ($34 billion) budget, but the more knowledgeable leadership of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) asserts that there is good basis for optimism about President Tinubu’s aspirations for the manufacturing sector and the actualization of a $1 trillion economy.

    In MAN’s recommendations to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), it urges intensified collaboration with fiscal authorities, forex access for vital industrial inputs not locally available, and the provision of long-term, single-digit interest loans to fast-track economic growth. It expects tough challenges during the early parts of 2024 but forecasts a potential recovery in the latter part of the year, contingent on policy stimulus and proactive measures to boost domestic growth and exports.

    This year, the pursuit of developmental imperatives, even beyond the ambit of the year’s N28.7 trillion budget becomes more compelling. Nigeria grapples with inadequate infrastructure, limited access to quality healthcare, education, and basic amenities but bridging these infrastructure and basic services gaps require substantial investments in infrastructure development, healthcare, education, and rural development initiatives. Furthermore, long-existing disparities between rural and urban areas exacerbate socio-economic inequalities; these necessitate increased consciousness and efforts towards ensuring equitable development and improving living standards in rural communities in the interest of overall national development and social cohesion.

    In his New Year Address on January 1, 2024, Tinubu said: “The task of building a better nation and making sure we have a Nigeria society that cares for all her citizens is the reason I ran to become your President. It was the core of my Renewed Hope campaign message on the basis of which you voted me as President.”

    This year, citizens look forward to seeing this pragmatically reflected in ongoing governance reforms and accountability. Corruption remains a significant impediment to progress; strengthening anti-corruption institutions, enforcing accountability mechanisms, and promoting transparency in governance are essential for curbing corruption and fostering public trust in government institutions.

    In 2024, addressing these challenges requires concerted efforts from policymakers, leaders, and citizens alike. Strategic interventions in electoral reforms, economic diversification, comprehensive security strategies, inclusive development initiatives, and governance reforms are imperative.

    Collaboration among government entities, civil society organizations, the private sector, and international partners is essential for implementing effective policies and initiatives. Ensuring political will, commitment to reforms, and inclusive decision-making processes are crucial elements in overcoming these challenges and steering Nigeria towards stability, progress, and sustainable development.

    “May your road be rough” is the title of an essay written by late Tai Solarin, an educationist, social critic, and visionary reformer; the phrase is metaphorical and suggests that a rough road is an onerous means of achieving arduous set goals – it is not a curse, but a wish for a challenging year ahead.

    For gold to be gold, it must have passed through the furnace; there is still basis for the optimism of late American editor, publisher and businessman that ‘We may pass through the fiery furnace, we may pass through deep waters, but we shall not be consumed nor overwhelmed; we shall emerge from these trials and difficulties better and purer.”

    As Nigeria grapples with these complex challenges in 2024, proactive leadership, coupled with sound policies and strategic planning, will be instrumental in driving transformative change and paving the way for a more prosperous and inclusive future for the nation.

  • Women to watch in 2024

    Women to watch in 2024

    Welcome to 2024. Despite the myriad challenges in the economic and political space, many are indeed hopeful and they are determined to make a mark in their chosen fields.
    The women are ready to be game changers, exploring the gains from the previous year and ready to set the pace for others to follow. YETUNDE OLADEINDE takes a look at the different sectors unveiling women to watch, amazons set to make giant strides this year.

    BANKING

    Women manage three of the top 10 banks in Nigeria today. Judging by the financial year ended 2023, the banks including GTB, Fidelity Bank, and FCMB, are being managed by these women namely: Miriam Olusanya, MD/CEO of GTB, Yemisi Edun, MD/CEO, FCMB, Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, MD/CEO, Fidelity Bank Plc, are doing well and ranked amongst the top tier banks.

    Specifically, GTB assets are valued at $14.401m, while Fidelity Bank is $8.911m and FCMB at $6.664m respectively

    GOVERNMENT

    Nigeria’s First Lady, Mrs Oluremi Tinubu 

    Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu is committed to empowering women, youths, and the elderly. Apart from empowerment, she has also shown interest in the Nation’s Health delivery process. During the outgoing week, she admonished well-meaning Nigerians to join forces with the government and adopt hospitals and wards to improve the sector. Her foundation, Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) is working in collaboration with UNICEF to ensure that all births in Nigeria are registered.

    MINISTER OF ARTS 

    Hannatu Musa Musawa, Minister of Art, Culture and Creative Economy

    The Minister is geared towards building another national theatre in Abuja. Following the 1988 national cultural policy, she also wants to replicate this in the 6 geopolitical zones of Nigeria. That was why the budget was increased from  1.9 billion to 9.1 billion by the national assembly when she defended her budget.

    POLITICS

    On the political scene, one woman to look out for is Loretta Ogboro Okoro, a female aspirant who has declared her intention to contest in the 2024 Edo Governorship race.

    ARTS/ LITERATURE

    Chimamanda  Ngozi Adichie

    The world is waiting to hear her garner more literary awards

     At this relatively young she has been able to capture attention to herself. More references are being made to her creative acumen and some literary pundits have stated that she will make the least for the Nobel or other awards like Booker and others. Her attention these days focuses more on feminine writings as she straightens the argument for women to stand together in agitating for their rights…more literature on women is expected therefore to emanate from her in 2024.

    FASHION AND TEXTILE

    Lanre Da Silva Ajayi (LDA)

    Lanre Da Silva Ajayi a Nigerian fashion designer based in Lagos is a designer to watch. She made the green classy gown worn by Tiwa Savage at the Coronation of King Charles In the UK last year. Launched in 2005, her eponymous label includes couture, ready-to-wear, jewelry, and hairpieces. Da Silva’s collections often incorporate metallic fabrics, lace, and African patterns, while referencing the 1940s or 1800s.

    Toyin Ajoke Muyinat Lawani-Adebayo, popularly known as Toyin Lawani, is a Nigerian celebrity, fashion designer, author, philanthropist, and serial entrepreneur. She is the CEO of Tiannahs Place Empire, a group compromising 33 businesses.

    Nike Okundaye

    Nike Okundaye will continue to expand the frontiers of the visual and creative industry. She keeps building private art galleries with additional ones in Abuja and environs

     She has promised to build more as time goes on. At the last count, she has ten such galleries in different parts of Nigeria, including Ogidi her village in Kogi state.

    Read Also: Plateau killings: Protesting women burn down traditional ruler’s house

    Queen Ronke Ademiluyi- Ogunwusi

    Ronke  Ademiluyi Ogunwusi is a fashion entrepreneur and wife of the Ooni of Ife, Enitan Ogunwusi. She is a lawyer and the Founder of Africa Fashion Week London and Africa Fashion Week Nigeria. Her passion for the adire fabric, projecting upcoming designers has made her events grow to become one of the largest and most prestigious fashion weeks. In the past 12 years, she has hosted 8 catwalk events and contributed expertise to at least 10 more events produced by third parties such as the Mayor of London’s Black History Month Celebrations. She also showcased over 800 emerging designers and exhibitors from Africa, Europe, and America.

    BUSINESS

    Mrs Folorunsho Alakija

    Nigerian businesswoman, philanthropist, and founder of Flourish Africa, Mrs. Folorunso Alakija is a woman to watch in the business sector.

    To support female entrepreneurs in Africa she launched a N1 billion fund

    Flourish Africa is a female empowerment platform designed to help women achieve their full potential. It is a place for both female millennials and adults to access information and the right networks that will enable them to grow in their chosen careers and businesses while prioritizing health and wellness. The initiative focuses on supporting the entrepreneurial activities of at least 2500 female-owned businesses through funding and structured training over 5 years.

     Mo. Abudu 

    M. O. Abudu. She keeps producing some of the most amazing films Nigerians and the world have ever seen. She takes Nigerian stories to the best and most valued cinemas all over the world. Every story that matters gives more impetus to gather the best hands as actors and actresses. Now with her international appointment, it is clear she is made to go places. Indeed 2024 is her year as she is ready to add more glamour to the business of filmmaking and translating some vital books into production. She is outstanding in the world of art. Check her out in 2024

    SPORTS

    Asisat Oshoala

     Asisat Oshoala who was recognised as Women’s African Player of the Year for 2023 by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) at a gala in Marrakech, Morocco has great potential this year.

    Tobi Amusan

    Oluwatobiloba Ayomide “Tobi” Amusan

     A Nigerian track and field athlete who specialises in the100 meters hurdles and also competes as a sprinter is a woman to watch in 2024. Amusan is the current world record holder in the 100 meters hurdles with a time of 12.12 seconds which she set at the 2022 women’s 100-meter hurdles semi-final in Eugene Oregon.

     She is the current Commonwealth and African champion in the 100 m hurdles, as well as the meet record holder in those two competitions.

    Rasheedat Ajibade

    Rasheedat Busayo Ajibade is a Nigerian professional footballer who plays as a forward for Spanish Liga F club Atlético Madrid and the Nigeria women’s national team.

    AGRICULTURE

    Yemisi Iranloye

    Yemisi Iranloye established Psaltry International Limited in the rural area of Ado-Awaye, Oyo state, Nigeria, to promote the cultivation of cassava for industrial purposes. The company produces food-grade starch and high-quality cassava flour, purchased from local smallholder farmers. Yemisi’s company prioritizes delivering high-quality products, and attracting customers like Nestle, Unilever, and Nigerian Breweries among others. Despite challenges like lack of electricity and water scarcity, Psaltry International Limited has achieved an annual income of $12 million and works with over 5,000 farmers. They specialize in cassava production and processing, producing over 10,000 tonnes of starches annually.

  • Celebrities to watch out

    Celebrities to watch out

    The Nigerian music industry, in 2023, witnessed a remarkable year and many creatives count their blessings. From music to movies, comedy and reality shows, it was a bumper year. 2024 is here and feelers hints that some celebrities are already pulling strings for what would be a great year for them. The NATION’s ADENIYI ADEWOYIN and ASSISTANT ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR GBENGA BADA look into artists, actors and reality shows that are expected to make news and keep the show on in 2024.

    Wizkid

    Ayodeji Balogun aka Wizkid had a good run in 2023 and the 33-year-old singer started 2024 on a high note even before the end of 2023. In December 2023, barely 10 days to a New Year, Wizkid released a fresh EP entitled, ‘Soundman 2 (S2).’ Since the release, the Elongated Play has been setting records, hence, hinting on many more records to break in 2024. The EP set a record for the highest first day streams on the Spotify daily chart for Nigeria. ‘IDK’, the fourth song off the EP, on which he featured Zlatan, also held the record for the highest first full day filtered streams on the Spotify Daily Chart for Nigeria, with over 600,000 streams.

    Davido

    Just like Wizkid, David Adeleke aka Davido will make so much buzz in 2024 considering all he has in plan with his team. Following his three nominations in three different categories of the 2024 Grammys, it is without doubt that Davido is making a buzz in the year. While fervently praying for a win or more at the Grammys scheduled for February 2024, Davido is currently working on a new project. Sources close to Davido also disclosed that he has promised to give more time to his wife and mother of twins, Chioma.

    CJ Fiery Obasi

    For 2024, Nigerian filmmaker CJ ‘Fiery’ Obasi will make so much buzz on the global film space. In 2023, his film, ‘Mami Water’ got several nominations and got quite a number of awards but failed to make the final OSCARS nomination despite being Nigeria’s representative. Rather than being deterred, Obasi has begun activities for 2024. Already, the filmmaker has been selected to join notable world opinion and industry leaders for the Rockafella Foundation residency. He will be joining several industry leaders  as a resident for the 2024 Bellagio Center Residency Program by the prestigious Rockefeller Foundation. This move will not only catapult Obasi’s visionary acumen but also underscores his commitment to advancing innovative projects that contribute to positive societal impact.

    Burna Boy

    While Burna Boy has been on a winning streak since 2019, it is without doubt that he will again make a buzz in 2024. With his new album, Burna Boy would be embarking on tours that might see him repeating old feats or making new feats. He might also be releasing a body of work before the end of t 2024, a source hinted.

    Rema

    2024 will determine if Rema will take his ‘situationship’ with Selena Gomez to a whole new height or would just ride on their friendship to see what the future further holds. However, it is instructive to note that Rema’s streaming numbers will continue to rise and his strategic performances to gain more fans across the world will continue. Rema might also be releasing another album in 2024.

    Tiwa Savage

    Tiwa Savage will try to make a big comeback in 2024 after ending 2023 on a not so good term following the announcement of issues with her vocal cords. It is projected that the singer will be returning to prove her worth as the African Bad gyal.

    Mo Abudu

    Mo Abudu is definitely going to consolidate on all her efforts of yesteryears and most recently 2023 to make serious buzz on the global film industry in 2024. After being named top international woman executive by The Hollywood Reporter in 2023, joining the jurors of Emmy Awards and sealing her influence as a powerful media guru in Nigeria, Mo Abudu will be the toast of the world in 2024. Aside from several project titles under her watch, she will be taking up more directorial roles in short and full feature films.

    Funke Akindele

    With a seeming knack for closing the Nollywood year in December with big titles that end up emerging biggest films in cinemas, Funke Akindele has become a constant feature in the piece.

    Those close to Funke will readily attest to her preparation for a new project she and her team have already embarked on. Taking over from AY Makun, Akindele now seems to have perfected the act of smiling to the bank at the end of the year after working on many projects through the year.

    Abiodun Jimoh

    Award-winning filmmaker Abiodun Jimoh will also be making a buzz on the film scene with his highly anticipated film, ‘Luwo Gbagida.’ Jimoh is telling the story of the only female Ooni of Ife that ever existed in the new project. Sources maintained that Jimoh is working on the final stages of the film and is scheduled for a 2024 release in the cinema.

    Rain Pryor, Bola Attah

    The relationship between American filmmaker and actress Rain Pryor and REDTV boss, Bola Attah is set to take the Nigerian film industry to a whole new height. The two are working on a new film that will see popular Nigerian acts like Odunlade Adekola being on the same set with established Hollywood actors and actresses. The project which kicked off with the preliminaries in 2023 will be in full swing in 2024.

    Read Also: Celebrities, VIPs who died in 2023

    BBNaija

    Nigeria’s most popular and biggest reality TV show, BBNaija will return for another season. While there are no information from the organisers of the show, sources revealed that the show is planned to return for another season in 2024. The show’s last edition wowed fans when it had ex-housemates returning to the house. The 2024 edition is expected to thrill fans of the show while South Africans can’t wait for a collaborative effort on BBTitans again.

    Nigerian Idol

    The annual music reality TV show, Nigerian Idol, will be in its ninth season in 2024. And already, organisers have hinted that the show which has produced eight different winners is billed to return for the ninth season. Fans and budding singers hoping to get a chance at fame, fortune and stardom can also prepare ahead of auditions.

    Kizz Daniel

    Kizz Daniel is known to have continued to dominate the industry with hit songs year after year. He is famed for not recording bad songs since he made it to fame. It is believed that he will repeat his winning streak or break his own record with the release of more hit songs in 2024.

    Femi Adebayo

    Femi Adebayo has emerged one of the acclaimed filmmakers since his success with two features that caused major stirs on two different streaming platforms in two years consecutively. Already, fans are yearning for a sequel to his epic monster ‘Jagun Jagun’, on Netflix and fans can’t wait for what Adebayo comes out with in 2024.

    Tobi Bakre

    Tobi Bakre is one actor that many did not see coming. The former Big Brother Naija housemate showcased his versatility in movie roles so much that he has made a name for himself as a particular self-made Nigerian hero character. From playing the character of ‘Obalola’ in Jade Osiberu’s ‘Gangs of Lagos’ to ‘Brotherhood,’ and recently ‘Edafe Majemijesu Umukoro’ in ‘Slum King,’ Bakre is no doubt going to make a buzz in 2024. His hard work was rewarded with an award at the 2023 AMAAs and he doesn’t seem like slowing down in 2024.

    Layi Wasabi

    The lanky funny man is one of the most promising talents in the skit making industry having proven himself even with less collaborations with his peers. Layi has been able to build a fanbase in a short period of time with different skit series like Mood, University Skits, GNCC and The Law. All aforementioned episodes are built on different characters that are very relatable to his audience.

    Wonder D Talk

    Mostly seen in Sabinus’ skits, Nduka or Wonder D Talk is one of popular skit maker Sabinus protégés who has also carved a nitch for himself in the skit industry. The Port Harcourt based comedian has since started his skit series where he adopts the lifestyle of a street scammer who takes no chances in scamming locals even with zero knowledge of the business. Wonder D Talk has broken even from just being behind Sabinu but also creating a new character of his own building a fanbase with over 216,000 followers on TikTok alone.

    His slang, “I’m the don of a praying mother” is fast gaining popularity among young people.

    Mr Lyf

    Another breakout star from the Sabinus crew, he plays different characters in skits and has also decided to create a path for himself while adopting a blue shirt and red tie. Going by Mr Lyf’s skits, he tends to have a promising career in 2024.

    Pastor Kasala

    Often dressed in white garment robe and broken eye glasses, Pastor Kasala is another skit maker to watch out for in 2024. With his use of Yoruba Ondo dialect, Kasala is fast gaining popularity among TikTok users and skit lovers. Going by his skits, Kasala has worked with the likes of Mr Macaroni, Mummy Wa, Nollywood actors, Kemity and Apa. Her has over two hundred thousand likes on TikTok alone.

  • Hope rising for commanding heights of economy

    Hope rising for commanding heights of economy

    A cross-section of experts in diverse areas of expertise have expressed optimism on the positive economic outlook in the incoming year, reports IBRAHIM APEKHADE YUSUF.
    For many Nigerians, 2023, had a measure of the sweet and sour, the good, the bad and the ugly as most people suffered from serious economic crunch, especially with the removal of petroleum subsidy, naira redesign and refloating, inflation, amongst other unpalatable choices they are not willing to admit at all. But 2024 promises to be a lot better if key economic indicators are anything to go by, according to financial and economic experts.

    How bank will drive growth in 2024

    One sector that holds a lot of promises in the new year is the banking subsector. In the view of Olumide Sole, a Sub-Saharan Banking Research Analyst at Vetiva Capital Management, core banking will drive growth next year.

    Speaking in a monitored television magazine programme on Arise TV, recently, he observed that the majority of coverage banks such as Zenith, GTCO, and UBA recorded a massive jump in their ends majorly driven by Forex evaluation gains in 2023.

    Speaking on the cost of funds, Sole stated that as interest rate rises, the cost of funds also rises. He said, “As interest rates rise, banks also have to pay more interest rates for their customers’ deposits.”

    He also added that the Standing Deposit Facility which the Central Bank of Nigeria removed the two billion limit which banks can deposit daily.

    He said this now gives banks ample opportunity for more earning potential for their revenue or core banking income to grow better. “Banks can now earn more as they can deposit all excess liquidity via the window.”

    Speaking on stocks, Sole added that Access is now the largest bank as per asset size and it is expected to keep growing. Concerning First Bank of Nigeria, he claimed that the recent creation of more shares will help in the bank’s expansion.

    He spoke on other banks like the FCMB Group which just completed its additional tier one capital issuance which is expected to position the bank to give out more loans and expand the banking operations in general.

    “Fidelity Bank recorded the largest expansion net in the first margin. Fidelity Bank’s acquisition of Union Bank UK will also improve the earnings of the bank while GTCO has one of the highest payout ratios and this is expected to play out even until next year.

    He however stated that the dividend payout for Stanbic was N1.5, the same as last year and this might not be in line with the expectations of the investors. He added that Stanbic Bank launched a fintech subsidiary recently.

    “UBA recorded impressive performance this year, with one of the largest recorded non-interest margins, we expect this to support the banks’ performance into 2024.

    “Zenith Bank has about 40% dividend payout on average, a very impressive one for investors, so expect this to continue to support the banks’ performance in the stock market even to 2024,” he said.

    Inflation to drop, naira to appreciate in 2024

    In what may be a sigh of relief, Bismarck Rewane, chief executive officer (CEO) of Financial Derivatives, has assured that the country’s exchange rate is expected to appreciate as inflation drops in 2024.

    Speaking at the recently held Parthian Partners 2024 economic outlook session in Lagos, Rewane said inflation is likely to “drop in 2024 and could go as low as 17 percent in 2025.”

    The economist’s views on inflation and the trading performance of the naira — Nigeria’s local currency — comes after Olayemi Cardoso, the nation’s central bank governor, took a similar position recently.

    According to Rewane, “Once inflation begins to decline, the exchange rate naturally appreciates because the exchange rate pass-through starts slowing down.”

    The economist, however, said inflation would climb further in early 2024 as a result of market changes and ongoing currency volatility on the black market.

    “Base effects are expected to kick in by mid-year, with inflation moderating to an average of 23.6 percent in 2024 from an average of 24.4 percent in 2023. The decline in inflation will naturally lead to exchange rate appreciation,” he said.

    Speaking on economic trends in 2023, Rewane said the naira fell by 26 percent to N1,050/$ in 2023.

    “There were higher energy prices with diesel price up by 34.01 percent to N1,050 per liter (year-on-year), fuel price up by 233 percent to N630 per liter (year-on-year), while money supply growth went up 36 percent (year-on-year) to N67.18trn in September,” he said.

    Meanwhile, Rewane stressed that investment in Nigeria is a substantial contributor to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP).

    Speaking on the interrelated structure of the global economy, the CEO said Nigeria has a number of international issues that could influence the trajectory of the economy in 2024.

    This, he said, encompasses geopolitical events, trade dynamics, rising market trends, and artificial intelligence.

    Nigeria to face higher debt burden in 2024, says IMF

    According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Nigeria will face a higher percentage of debt to gross domestic product (GDP) burden in the coming year.

    IMF gave the projection in its October 2023 report on ‘Africa: Special Issue: In Pursuit of Stronger Growth and Resilience.’

    It indicated that Nigeria’s government debt would rise by 4.3 per cent of its GDP in 2024 from 38.8 per cent in 2023.

    The IMF report also projected that Nigeria’s real GDP would slightly grow from 2.9 per cent this year to 3.1 per cent in 2024.

    Nigeria’s real GDP, an inflation-adjusted measure that reflects the value of all goods and services produced by an economy in a given year, is expected to reach $489.80 billion by the end of 2023 and to peak around $504.99 billion in 2024.

    Arising from the debt burden Nigeria and other low-income countries are carrying, the G-24, a group made up of 38 members plus China, had said not only were there high and increasing public debt levels with many developing countries but also that the countries carried unsustainable debt burdens.

    There is hope the economy will rebound despite the growing debt and inflationary spike, according to the IMF.

    The institution had projected growth in Nigeria’s real GDP to 3.1 per cent in 2024 and four per cent in sub-Saharan Africa; however, urging the region to take some precautionary measures.

    “To ensure that the coming rebound is more than just a transitory glimpse of sunshine, it is important for authorities to guard against a premature relaxation of stabilisation policies while also focusing on reforms to both claw back lost ground from the four-year crisis and also to create new space to address the region’s pressing development needs,” IMF said.

    Read Also: Security crises: Targeted $1tr economy in danger, says Tinubu

    Economy set for modest improvement in 2024

    According to the forecast by BMI, a Fitch Solutions company, Nigeria’s real GDP growth will increase modestly to 2.9% in 2024, up from 2.4% in 2023.

    “We forecast that Nigeria’s real GDP growth will increase modestly to 2.9% in 2024, up from 2.4% in 2023. The most recent data released by Nigeria’s National Bureau of Statistics shows that the economy expanded by a modest 2.5% y-o-y in Q323, unchanged from Q223.”

    Expatiating, BMI further noted that Nigeria’s revenue-to-GDP will remain one of the lowest globally at 4.5% in 2024. “We anticipate that roughly 60% of the government’s federally retained revenue will be absorbed by debt servicing. Meanwhile, given that inflation will remain elevated through 2024, the government will be under pressure to increase the already-bloated public wage bill, exerting a further strain on the country’s budget position. As a result, the government’s fiscal space to ramp up productive spending – including investing in infrastructure projects – will continue to be severely restricted through 2024.”

    Interestingly, the Fitch subsidiary anticipates that the Central Bank of Nigeria will maintain a relatively high benchmark interest rate, which it expects to end 2024 at 17.75%, thus keeping borrowing costs elevated.

    “Given macroeconomic headwinds, low confidence and tight credit conditions, businesses are unlikely to commit to expansion plans over the coming months.”

    The BMI is particularly upbeat about the possibility of the country making a lot of gains from the production at Dangote Refinery.

    “Given that Nigeria will produce 1.62mn b/d of crude in 2024, there will still be a significant surplus available for export. Furthermore, long-standing contracts with international buyers and the need to maintain relationships with key trading partners – including the US, EU, and India – will mean that large volumes of crude will continue to be sold on the international market, preventing a downturn in overall exports. All told, we forecast that growth in exports of goods and services will soften from 19.3% in 2023 to 6.7% in 2024.

    “Real GDP, % chg 2.4 2.9 Economic growth in Nigeria will improve modestly in 2024, primarily due to the operational start of the Dangote refinery. That said, Nigeria will continue to   underperform by both Sub-Saharan Africa and emerging market standards as a result of high inflation, tight financial conditions, and fiscal constraints.”

    Echoing similar sentiments, Enebi Opaoluwa, Senior Research and Policy Analyst at Budgit, while expressing optimism over the projections by the Minister of Finance Wale Edun on the positive outcomes of some of the government policies in the coming days, said that a lot would give.

    Opaoluwa who was a guest at a public forum in Lagos, said the government from all indications has shown that it can be taken very seriously, and as such needs to maintain the tempo of activities that should translate to the much anticipated gains it wants to see in the major commanding heights of the economy.

    Regardless of what is done, Opaoluwa would rather the government ensures that it reins in the monster of the rising exchange rate. The exchange rate is a very crucial factor and one of the key parameters in assessing the health of any economy, he stressed.

    Hope rising for economy

    While commenting on the state of the economy in the last few months, Peter Sunday Adebola, Managing Director, Edgefield Capital Management Limited, an investment-driven firm, said the government is tackling the problem besetting the country headlong despite the challenges it is confronting.

    According to him, the current economic managers have shown the propensity to turn things around in the system judging by the raft of policy pronouncements they have made in recent times.

    Citing the revamped Port Harcourt Refinery, he said, “If Port Harcourt Refinery I and II is working, then that means we would import less fuel and if we do that it is going to enhance our foreign exchange earnings capacity. Then again, another thing is the Dangote Refinery has also come on stream too. It has received some crude oil for prospecting.”

    Refining capacity, he reiterated, “Will increase the pressure on our reserves and increase in food production if people can go back to their farms. Then we are going to see the kind of hope that this administration is promising us.”

    Adebola, who lamented the absence of the middle class in the country as a result of the growing economic crunch, said, “It’s either you’re poor or you’re rich.”

    With the right policy mix, he is optimistic that things would turn around for good. “We will see the appearance of the middle class and that is good for us as a country. If you look at our market capitalisation, it is now N40trillion. If you divide that by the exchange rate now, it means we are still hovering around $40b as we speak, which is small. So, we need an expanded market. If the environment is conducive enough we don’t need to be going on a roadshow overseas for foreign direct investment. No.

    “A country of over 200million people doesn’t have any business being poor. That is why you see all these Indians trooping here while our folks are ‘japing’ in. We have got raw materials which can be used to transform the nation in all sectors. FDI will come naturally if there is adequate infrastructure.

    “With a vibrant capital market, it would afford companies the opportunity to raise funds. Right now, the market is vibrant and we expect that by next year, it will be vibrant as well. There are lots of activities both in the primary and secondary markets. Likewise, if this happens, prosperity is going to come into the economy.”

    He would also want the government to replicate what it is doing in other sectors in the food sector by tackling insecurity headlong.

    Jamiu Mohammed Equity Trader at Apt Securities & Trust Limited is also on the same page with Adebola.

    “We believe the market should continue to be in the green. We always advise our investors to look at the sound fundamentals of the companies they want to invest in to avoid any untoward outcomes because what pushed our market to this level is the fundamentality of the market.”

  • Year of greater expectations

    Year of greater expectations

    Like 2023, this year will be full of activities at the national and sub-regional levels. Deputy Editor EMMANUEL OLADESU examines the events of 2024 that are likely to make it a historic year.

    Last year was full of suprises, uncertainties, conflicts and renewed hope for a brighter future. Certain national expectations were met, particularly the orderly transfer of power across the two tiers. There is political stability, and democratic consolidation. But, the people thirst for a relief from the harsh economic situation. The national lean period has been elogated. Poverty is growing in leaps and bounds. Many citizens, particularly professionals, are migrating abroad in search of real or imagined greener pastures.

    Insecurity is still raging, despite the concerted efforts at nipping it in the bud by determined and gallant security agents. From the eve of Christmas to the new year, Plateau has been one environment of daily anguish and sorrow. The old, young and kids are murdered without restraint. Security agencies have not been able to unravel the circumstances.

    Political conflicts in many states convey an atmosphere of uproar in the polity. Even, intra-party implosion in both ruling and opposition parties stare people in the face in some states.

    Nigerians witnessed a historic presidential poll and change of government. There were thousands of litigations arising from the bitterly contested presidential, governorship and legislative polls, which almost drew the nation on edge.

    Some of the outstanding court cases have been carried over to 2024.

    Six months after, elected functionaries are adjusting to the huge challenges of governance. No giant stride yet at the national and state levels, although there are indications that Nigerians will savour a new lease of life this year. President Bola Tinubu and governors are assuring Nigerians that things will be better.

    The economy is still in shambles. Fuel subsidy was gone, but the cummulative impact on the people is still unbearable. Foreign debt is soaring. While the President’s genuine investment drive has potentials of achieving targeted positive results, some known and time-tested investors are leaving the country. The cost of production is burdensome. Companies are folding up, thereby making unemployment to soar in geometric proportions.

    Two key areas are germane to a productive economy and diversification. First, although power is becoming relatively stable, much more is still needed to be done in the important sector. Two, if the refineries begin to work, even at a low capacity this year, hope will be better rekindled.

    Bello out, Ododo in:

    On January 27, Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello will bow out in a blaze of glory after completing his two terms of eight years. At a ceremony in Lokoja, the state capital, he will hand over to his anointed candidate, Usman Ododo. Bello has already tendered his stewardship. Ododo, former Accountant-General and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance, will lay out his comprehensive plan for the state during the inauguration.

    Then, a successor/predecessor relationship will begin in which stakeholders do no expect crisis of whatever kind.

    Outstanding litigations:

    The political events of 2023 will definitely be influential on the events of 2024. Two important governorship cases will be decided by the Supreme Court. There are anxieties in Plateau and Kano states where the disputes over last governorship polls between the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) had shifted to the Supreme Court. NNPP Governor Abba Yusuf is being challenged by Nasisu Gawunna of APC. The wider interpretation is that the struggle is between APC National Chairman Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje and Kano NNPP Leader Senator Rabiu Kwakwanso. Both of them previously belonged to one political family in the PDP and later, APC.

    In Plateau, Governor Caleb Mutfwang is awaiting the Supreme Court judgement in the case brought by the APC candidate, Nentawe Goshwe.

    These litigations have drawn home the import of unfinished electoral reforms, particularly the need to re-adjust the calendar for elections by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). These questions subsist: should presidents and governors be sworn in before the conclusion of litigation? If a governor is sacked by the apex court seven months after the poll, and the legitimate winner is sworn in, can the lost time be recovered or accounted for?

    By-elections:

    Next month, residual elections will take place in some districts and constituencies. The positions became vacant, following the appointment of the federal legislators into the Federal Executive Council (FEC) by the president.

    By-elections will be conducted to fill the vacant  positions vacated by Senator Dave Umahi, Minister of Works (Ebonyi South), Femi Gbajabiamila, Presidential Chief of Staff (Surulere), Tunji Ojo, Minister of Interior (Akoko) and Senator Gaidem, Minister of Police Affairs (Yobe East).

    A statement by INEC National Commissioner and Chairman,  Information and Voter Education Committee,  Sam Olumekun, said re-run and by-elections will take place simultaneously in nine states on Saturday, February 3.

    For the state constituencies, INEC is expected to conduct elections in Chibok State Constituency, Borno State, Chikun State Constituency, Kaduna State, and Guma State Constituency, Benue State.

    In federal constituencies, the elections will be held in Akoko North East/Akoko North West Federal Constituency, Ondo State, Jalingo/Yorro/Zing Federal Constituency, Taraba State, Surulere 1 Federal Constituency, Lagos State, and Yauri/Shanga/Ngaski Federal Constituency, Kebbi State.

    Olumekun recalled that the vacancies were declared by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, and Speakers of Houses of Assembly.

    Indeed, 35 constituencies were affected by these court-ordered elections; while three cover entire constituencies, others involve only a few polling units.

    Olumekun said: “The Commission has approved the timetable and schedule of activities for conducting by-elections resulting from the resignation or demise of members of the National and State Houses of Assembly.

    “These vacancies were declared by the Presiding Officers, i.e., the Senate President, Speaker of the House of Representatives, and Speakers of State Houses of Assembly.

    “The vacancies occurred across two senatorial districts, four federal constituencies, and three state constituencies, spanning nine states of the federation.

    “Furthermore, the Commission is conducting re-run  stemming from the 2023 general election, as directed by various Election Petition Appeal Tribunals. Currently, 35 constituencies are affected by these court-ordered elections. While three cover entire constituencies, others involve only a few polling units.

    “Both categories of elections are scheduled to take place simultaneously in all affected constituencies on Saturday, February 3, 2024.”

    Olumekun said the timetable for the elections, along with detailed delimitation data, has been uploaded to the INEC website and social media platforms as a guide for political parties and candidates and public information.

    He urged parties and candidates to strictly adhere to the specified timelines for the seamless conduct of these elections.

    Gladiators are warming up for these by-elections. Those who vacated the positions are also not indifferent to the personalities of those itching to succeed them. In Surulere Constituency, Gbajabiamila is rooting for Fuad Laguda, an APC aspirant. His challenger is Abdulraheem Owokoniran, a lawyer. The PDP aspirant is Bolaji Jeje, a long standing chieftain.

    In Ebonyi South, an aspirant, Austin Umahi, younger brother of the minister, has quit the race. The slot was zoned to Onicha Council by the State Working Committee of the APC. A notable PDP aspirant is Silas Onu, who has set up a campaign organisation.

    In Akoko Constituency, Ondo PDP has endorsed Olalekan Bada, former chairman of Akoko Northeast Council, as consensus candidate.

    Read Also: New Year, greater expectations

    Edo, Ondo governorship polls:

    A major popularity test is imminent again. In Ondo State, the two parties -APC and PDP-will clash during the off-season governorship election.

    In Edo, three parties-APC, PDP and Labour Party (LP)- will compete for the Osadebey House.

    In the two states, the aspirants are warming up for primaries.

    Ondo is a state to watch. Recently, a new governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, succeeded his deceased predecessor, Rotimi Akeredolu. His demise has changed the political calculus.

    Aiyedatiwa is expected to name his deputy soonest. He is from Ondo South, which is expected to be the beneficiary of zoning as proposed by Akeredolu. It therefore, implies that zoning will also shape the selection of the deputy governor, who may be picked from Ondo North(Owo/Akoko) or Ondo Central (Akure/Ondo/Idanre).

    Before Akeredolu’s demise, no fewer than 10 APC aspirants, including Aiyedatiwa, were warming up for the shadow poll. Other contenders are Wale Akinterinwa, an experience accountant, technocrat, former Senior Special Assistant (Housing) in Lagos State and longest service Finace Commissioner in Ondo State; Princess. Oladunni Odu, prominent women leader, former commissioner and now Secretary to Government, Dr. Ife Oyedele, accomplished engineer and chairman of a federal parastatal in Abuja, Chief Olusola Oke (SAN), former House of Representatives member, Senator Jimoh Ibrahim (Ondo Central), Dr. Soji Ehinlanwo, former Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) member Sola Edema, Ambassador Sola Iji, Jimi Odimayo, APC National Vice Chairman (West) Isaacs Kekemeke,and Mathew Oyerinmade.

    Nearly all the aspirants are from the South Senatorial District.

    In Ondo PDP, there is intense clamour for zoning to Ondo South. However, there is no consensus on the agitation.

    PDP governorship aspirants include Eyitayo Jegede (SAN), former Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, a two-time governorship candidate who hails from Akure; Adeolu Akinwumi and Elder Bosun Arebuwa.

    There is more anxiety in Edo over the primaries. The three parties-APC, PDP and LP-are not at peace due to internal bickering.

    Edo is a battle ground. APC is working hard to bounce back. PDP is not sleeping on guard. LP leaders, who are motivated by its in-road into the state in last year’s elections, are full of bravado.

    Governor Godwin Obaseki should be envious of his Kogi counterpart, Yahaya Bello, who despite all odds, succeeded in installing a successor, Ododo, who hails from the same local government with him.

    However, there is a split in Edo PDP. Actually, there are four camps in the troubled chapter. Two of the camps are led by Obaseki and Dan Orbih, who is a loyalist of Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike.

    Zoning is an issue in Edo. So far, none of the parties has made a categorical statement, although Obaseki appears to be indisposed to a successor from his native senatorial district and from Edo North, the birthplace of his predecessor, Senator Adam Oshiomhole.

    Edo PDP aspirants include Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu, who has failed to secured the endorsement of his boss; Anslem Ojezua, a lawyer, Gideon Ikhine and Asue Ighodalo, successful banker, lawyer and businessman.

    LP aspirants are Dorry Okojie, Mathew Urhoghide, Kenneth Imasuagbon and Akpata, former President of Nigeria Bar Association (NBA).

    Those struggling for the ticket in the APC are Joseph Ikpea, Gideon Obhakhan, Col. David Imuse, Monday Okpebholo, Prof. Osariemhenn Osunbor, and former Minister of State for Budget, Clem Agba.

    These off-season elections will be confucted based on the Electoral Act and the constitution. But, political parties and candidates should also take cognisance of the lucid judgments of the presidential tribunal and the Supreme Court to moderate their behaviours before, during and after the polls.

    Rivers, Fubara, Wike:

    The Rivers political crisis may not be carried over to the new year, if the peace deal brokered by President Bola Tinubu between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Wike are strictly implemented.

    The crisis led to the demolition of the House of Assembly by the state government and resignation of some commissioners.

    According to the resolutions, Governor Fubara is to withdraw all matters he has before the courts, just as it directed the State House of Assembly to drop all impeachment processes it initiated against the governor.

    It also directed that Amaewhule’s leadership of the House of Assembly be recognised, just as it directed Fubara to re-present the state’s 2024 Budget to the Amaewhule-led Assembly.

    “All matters instituted in the courts by the governor of the state, Fubara, and his team, in respect of the political crisis in Rivers state, shall be withdrawn immediately.

    “All impeachment proceedings initiated against the governor of Rivers state by the Rivers State House of Assembly should be dropped immediately

    “The leadership of the Rivers State House of Assembly as led by the Rt. Hon. Martin Amaewhule shall be recognized alongside the 27 members who resigned from the PDP

    “The remunerations and benefits of all members of the State House of Assembly and their staff must be reinstated immediately and the governor of Rivers State shall henceforth not interfere with the full funding of the State House of Assembly

    “The State House of Assembly shall choose where they want to sit and conduct their legislative business without interference and/or hindrance from the Executive arm of government

    “The Governor of Rivers State, Sir Fubara, shall re-present the state budget to a properly constituted Rivers State House of Assembly.

    “The names of all commissioners in the Rivers State Executive Council who resigned their appointments because of the political crisis in the state should be resubmitted to the House of Assembly for approval

    “There should NOT be a caretaker committee for the local governments in Rivers State. The dissolution of the Local Government administration is null and void and shall not be recognized.”

    Eyes are on Fubara and the Martins Amaewhule-led House of Assembly to fully implement the eight items contained in the resolutions.

    Out of the eight-point resolution, only two had been fully implemented; one by Fubara and one by the House of Assembly.

    While the Amaewhule-led House, a day after the meeting, implemented resolution two by withdrawing an impeachment notice, Fubara confirmed that he had enforced item four by paying the withheld entitlements of the lawmakers.

    There is another hurdle to cross. This is the glaring reality of a PDP governor now working in critical partnership with the APC Speaker of an APC-dominated House of Assembly. Will the 27 lawmakers return to the PDP, or will the governor join them in APC?

    Mid-term party conventions:

    The three main parties have their peculiar challenges which will continue to manifest.

    APC, the party in power, has to justify the confidence reposed in it through the performance of the Tinubu administration it has midwifed.

    There are murmurings and grumblings in the ruling party over the distribution of appointments and largesee at the federal level by some active chieftains who naturally expect reward for political labour, particularly during the last electioneering.

    Also, some state chapters are crisis-ridden. There is need for effective crisis resolution mechanism.

    PDP, the main opposition party, has to resolve its leadership crisis by selecting a new chairman, based on zoning.

    Also, PDP has an unfinished challenge of reconciliation to contend with. The party is divided, with some of its leaders hobnobbing with the APC-led administration.  There is crack between the National Working Committee (NWC) and the PDP Governors’ Forum, which should be mended. The party needs a strong leadership that should command the loyalty and respect of the vast majority of members. Can the defeated presidential candidate, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, offer the required leadership at this time?

    During the week, Atiku’s associate, Daniel Bwala, a lawyer, hinted that the old warhorse will contest in 2027. That means he has a lot of work to do to get the ticket, which will definitely be competed for by other chieftains.

    Like PDP, LP is also beset with leadership crisis as manifested by the consistent tussle between the two camps, led by Julius Abure, a lawyer, and Lamidi Apapa. LP is not a big party, if the Obedients, fanatically followers of its failed presidential candidate, Peter Obi, are isolated. Its structure is still suspect. It lacks taproots in the nooks and crannies of the country. Mere identification with Obi, former governor of Anambra State, by the scattered and uncoordinated noise-making fans does not amount to party membership.

    During the week, Obi disclosed that the party will embrace reality and adjust to the role of an opposition party.

    For the three parties, there is an obvious gap in role fulfilment. Political parties should constantly educate the people about national political developments. They are not doing enough in terms of mandatory political education, sensitisation and enlightenment.

    Also, the parties are moving away from the culture of mid-term convention, which would have afforded them the unique opportunity for critical self-assessment, review and projections into the future.

    Swearing in of Supreme Court justices:

    No fewer than 11 Justices of the Supreme Court are expected to be sworn in soon by the Chief Justice of the Federation, Kayode Ariwoola. They will fill the vacancies created by statutory retirement and demise of the apex jurists.

  • Row over auctioned stolen SUV bought by retired AIG

    Row over auctioned stolen SUV bought by retired AIG

    • Ex-police chief: How I bought N3m car for N250,000

    A stolen Toyota Sport Utility Vehicle found in the possession of a retired Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) who claimed he purchased the vehicle through a public auction has sparked a row.  The car’s original owner faulted the public auction of his vehicle to the ex-police chief, saying the information provided for its auction did not add up, reports KUNLE AKINRINADE.

    It was around midnight a decade ago when some dare-devil robbers broke into the home of Eye Ayo Samuel in Erusu Akoko, Akoko North West Local Government Area of Ondo State. The hoodlums broke into his apartment through the kitchen window and shattered his sleep.

    “The incident  occurred on January 24, 2014. I was sleeping in my house when the two armed men broke into my home through the window of the kitchen and threatened to shoot me and my family.

    “The intruders made away with five phones including Tecno, Samsung, Blackberry and Nokia brands. 

    “Not satisfied with their loot, they also took away my N3 million white 2006 model Toyota Highlander Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) marked EKY 850 AJ with chassis number:  JTE DW 21A060004010,” he said.

    Samuel,  who runs a printing firm, said in the morning of January 25, he rushed to the nearby police division at Ikare Akoko to report the matter while he also contacted the office of the Federal Road Safety Corps to flag the stolen car.

    As it has turned out, the car has now a subject of controversy between Samuel and one retired Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Olatunji Akingbola.

    Samuel recalled: “In the morning of January 25, 2014, I went straight to the Ikare Police Station and reported the incident. But nothing came out of it until recently when I discovered that the car was bought by one Olatunji Akingbola, a retired Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG).

    “If you look at the auction paper, you will see that there was no registered vehicle number or number plate and no car chassis number displayed or written on the Toyota Highlander auctioned to him.

    “On the contrary, my car was a hybrid Toyota Highlander and it has a registered number and number plate as well as a chassis number.”

    Samuel said last year, he was alerted by the FRSC office in Lagos that the vehicle was brought in for registration.

    He said: “I was shocked when FRSC called me on my mobile phone repeatedly that my car was discovered among the vehicles whose documents were submitted for number plates, and I was furious.

    Vehicle’s registration number missing from auction notice

    The approval for the public auction of the vehicle was issued on August 25, 2015, by the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Boniface Onyeabo, in a memo to the Assistant Director of Police Pay Office, Obalende Lagos. The correspondence mentioned one Godwin Okafor as the registered police auctioneer approved to handle the public sale of the vehicles including the Toyota Highlander SUV.

    Subsequently, in the exhibit vehicles due for public auction released by the police, 17 vehicles, including a Toyota Highlander Sport Utility Vehicle, were listed as approved for auction. However, the controversial car was listed as number 6 without any registration number.

    The Sun newspaper of Tuesday, July 21, 2015 had noted that no fewer than 19 vehicles were recovered by the defunct Federal Special Anti-Robbery Squad (FEDSARS) Adeniji Adele, Lagos.

    Eventually, the car, which Samuel claimed was worth more than N3 million at the time it was snatched at gunpoint, was sold for a paltry N20,000 to one Wosola Akinkuowo at the public auction held on September 7, 2015, according to the receipt issued in respect of the transaction sighted by our reporter.

    How I got the vehicle – AIG

    When our reporter contacted AIG Akingbola, the retired police chief explained that he had been invited by the Commissioner of Police in Ondo State to clarify his complicity in the controversial vehicle a few months ago.

    He said: “I think the man (Samuel) is just out to destroy himself and not my name.

    “I am a retired Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG).

    “In 2014, I was the Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) in charge of FEDSARS, Abuja. I was incidentally moved to Adeniji Adele annex of FEDSARS for six months during which there was an auction sale of recovered vehicles.

    “I was not there when the vehicle was  auctioned, but the person to whom the vehicle was sold via auction approached me, saying that the car was a hybrid Toyota Highlander and that the battery was expensive. Hence, he said that he was willing to sell it to me.

    “I was not in charge of FEDSARS at Adeniji Adele Annex then. The person in charge of the office was DCP Boniface Onyeabo.

    “So, I bought the car for N250,000 from the person who got it through a police auction, and I found that it cost a whopping $3,000 to get a new battery for a hybrid Toyota car.

    “I was later introduced to a technician who could fix the battery and brakes of the vehicle. I also did a conversion of the vehicle from a hybrid to a normal car.

    “Early this year, I gave it to someone to sell it for me and the person sold it to someone who took it to Abuja.

    “I was later told that the vehicle had an issue when he took it to FRSC and I even gave my number to the new owner to call me at the FRSC office so that I could speak with officials there to resolve the problem.

    “Suddenly, I was called by the Commissioner of Police, stating that there was a petition against me that a stolen vehicle was found in my possession. So, I visited the CP  to explain my side of the story.

    “I know that there are laws governing the sale of vehicles through public auction. I then gave the documents of the auction sale to the Ondo CP, who said that an investigation of the matter would be done.

    Read Also: Target of $1tn economy will be in jeopardy if security crises aren’t halted now – Tinubu

    “Recently, the CP called me to see him, and when I met him, he said the vehicle was auctioned via a public notice in The Sun newspaper where it was written as an unregistered Toyota Highlander.

    “At a stage, the people handling the case asked him to seek clarification from FEDSARS Adeniji Adele annex, Lagos.

    “The CP later asked that I produce the vehicle and bring it to the Ondo State Police Command in Akure.

    “The car had been bought by a man for his wife and I had to refund the money paid by the man and the vehicle was returned to me.

    “So, I promised the CP that I would send the vehicle to him through my driver.

    “I don’t want to believe that he thinks that I was the one who sent robbers to rob him of the vehicle.

    “I spent 35 years in the Police Force and I never received any query throughout my entire career. I have all the papers relating to the auction.

    “The only thing that I changed in the car is the colour (from white to black),

    “The same man (Samuel), perhaps thinking the Ondo CP would compromise again, wrote another petition to the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and I was contacted.

    “I have since explained my side of the story to an aide of IGP overseeing the matter, and I haven’t heard anything about the matter until now.

    “In all, I followed all the necessary procedures in purchasing the car through public auction, and there are documents to validate that, which I provided during my meeting with the Ondo CP.”

    Samuel however insisted that there was a foul play in the manner his stolen car was acquired by the ex-police chief,  saying: “AIG Akingbola went to the FRSC office in Ojodu, Lagos to register the car with a new number, and he submitted the chasis number of my car, which was not displayed at the time it was being auctioned to him.

    “It was the chassis number that the officials of FRSC saw that made them contact me on the phone, because I had requested that the car be flagged as a stolen vehicle immediately after it was snatched from me.

    “If AIG Akingbola gave you the public notice where the vehicles were published for auctioning, it was only my car that was published without its registration number and chassis number.

    “So how come he now went to the FRSC office to register the vehicle with my car’s registered number and chassis number?

    “By the time the vehicle was brought to the state police command as requested by me when I reported to the Police Commissioner, the chassis number written on the windscreen had been erased, but they couldn’t erase the chassis number on the engine.”

  • Nasarawa: From investment hub to terrorists’ stomping ground

    Nasarawa: From investment hub to terrorists’ stomping ground

    Nasarawa State boasts more security formations that most states in the north. But in recent times, the state has recorded more security breaches than many others around it, LINUS OOTA reports.

    Nnasararwa, the new investment hub of northern Nigeria has attracted several investors in recent times courtesy of the efforts of the state governor, Abdullahi Sule. The state holds a unique advantage of hosting many security formations including the police mobile training school in Ende Hills and the 123 Special Forces Battalion of the Nigerian Army in Doma Local Government Area of the state, among others.

    Lately, the Sule administration has attracted the Dangote Sugar Refinery, Olarm Rice Farm and a flour mills and embarked on eight significant business environment reforms which have attracted over $500 million in both domestic and foreign investment into key sectors of the state economy.

    Unfortunately, the state is virtually turning into an epicenter of banditory, kidnapping and terrorist attacks in recent times; a trend which if not properly tackled could scare investors.

    The recent abduction of the executive chairman of Akwanga Local Government Area, Hon Safiyanu Isa Andaha within the local government has left many residents of the state bewildered and left no one in doubt as to the escalating cases of insecurity in the state.

    A day hardly passes without news of one kidnapped person or the other or attempted kidnapping in one part of the state or the other. With the media frequently awash with such stories, the phenomenon has assumed such a frightening dimension that some residents are even contemplating some means of securing themselves independent of the state.

    Between 2022 and 2023, the state’s Commissioner for Information, Culture and Touris, Hon Yakubu Lawal, was kidnapped in his home in Nasarawa Eggon; the Executive Chairman of Keffi Local Government Area, Hon Baba Shehu was also a victim of kidnapping; a permanent secretary in Government House, Mr Jibrin Giza, was kidnapped as well as a member of the National Assembly Service Commission, Muazu Ishaq. Large sums of money were allegedly paid for their release.

    In the new year, the state has been in the news again for the wrong reasons. On new year day, for instance, the Executive Chairman of Akwanga Local Government Area of the state, Hon Safiyanu Isa Andaha, and his political godfather, Alhaji Adamu Umar Custom, were kidnapped around Ningo village in Akwanga. They were released only after they had spent a whole day in the bush with their abductors to whom the sum of N10m was allegedly paid as ramson as against the N50m they initially demanded.

    The victims were freed by their abductors behind an obsolete filling station on Bayan Dutse Road on the outskirts of Andaha town. The chairman allegedly claimed that the kidnappers were “small small Fulani boys” turning them around the bush.

    On Tuesday (January 2), four people were gunned down by armed robbers at a supermarket in a village in Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State; a neighborhood town to Nyanya in Abuja FCT.

    A witness told our correspondent that the attackers were terrorists who did not come to rob the supermarket or hurt its operators but to kill anybody who visited the supermarket at that particular time to buy some items.

    The bloodletting terrorists stormed Wisdom Supermarket, located by the roadside in One Man village by the Abuja-Keffi Expressway, killing four customers. The incident, which occurred between 8:30pm and 9pm, was said to have taken security operators and local security men engaged by the supermarket as well as other neighboring shops unaware.

    Up until the time of filing this report, the atmosphere at the area was tense as a lot of people were leaving in fear while most shops along the area did not open for fear of further attacks.

    A resident within the area, Mr Abubakar Modi, who spoke with our correspondent, said he had just left the supermarket after buying some items and was about to board a keke (commercial tricycle) when he heard gunshots within the supermarket.

    Modi said: “I couldn’t believe what I saw. My heart is still beating till now. The whole thing happened like a dream. They were actually terrorists. They were not coming to rob the supermarket; they were just coming to waste people’s lives.

    “I leave in One Man Village, and in the past one year, we have been experiencing security challenges from one house to another or one shop to another. But this particular attack was one too shocking as nobody expected it.

    “They took everyone by surprise, because it happenned while people were still moving around.”

    Another witness, who identified himself simply as Mr Ibrahim, said he was standing opposite the shops and saw the whole operation. “They came in a vehicle, but they covered their faces heavily.

    “Armed with guns, they walked into the supermarket and asked everybody to lie flat on the floor. They then shot at the four customers in the shop”.

    The Police Public Relations Officer of the state command, DSP Ranham Nansel, who confirmed the incident, said that investigation was ongoing.

    According to him, “on receiving the information, the Commissioner of Police, Umar Nadada, deployed the Divisional Police Officer of the New Karu division, which is close to the scene. Upon arrival, they discovered that four people were shot. They evacuated them to the hospital where the doctor confirmed them dead and they were deposited at the mortuary for autopsy.

    “The Commissioner of Police in turn deployed the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the state criminal investigation department to the scene to carry out a comprehensive investigation.”

    Speaking generally on the fear among the residents of the state, a retired permanent secretary, Amos Abu, said the current security situation in the state will portray the state in bad light.

    “The governor is doing and has done a lot to attract investment to the state, which is his major achievement. But if the state is experiencing bad signals in terms of security, the investors might fold up.

    “If you go to Lafia town now, especially along the polytechnic and Bukan Sidi area, people hardly sleep with their two eyes closed; it is one robbery incident after another. The criminals break into people’s houses to collect their handsets, money and other important belongings. They machete innocent citizens at will without any just reason.

    “The rate of kidnapping in the state now is alarming. If a whole chief security officer of a local government is successfully kidnapped, then nobody is safe. If terrorists can go into a supermarket and kill innocent customers without hindrance and go scot free, them there is a big problem,

    “Our major fear is that the plateau scenario might snowball into Nasarawa. Security of lives and property is no longer guaranteed. Nobody is safe and this development might scare investors from coming into Nasarawa State for development.

    “The Governor has done enough interns of investment and infrastructural development, but once the security of lives and property is not guaranteed, those achievements cannot benefit the masses.” 

    A market women association leader, Mrs Amina Thomas, said “the continuous security breaches signify the failure of governance in all ramifications. Once government fails to protect the lives of its citizens, it means something is wrong.”

    She explained further that Governor Sule has done a lot in terms of security, but the recurrence of these security breaches  clearly show that peace has eluded the state. It is either farmers/herders crisis or kidnapping by bandits and now terrorists killing people at will. The bizzare is going on despite Governor Abdullahi Sule’s efforts.

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    “Governor Sule has deployed military, police and other security agencies across the state. He provided them with all the support needed and their presence should ordinarily scare the criminals. But that is not the case.

    “I am shocked that four innocent people can be wiped away in a minute by terrorists. We are all leaving in fear of the unknown,” she said.

    While kidnappings and killings are not peculiar to Nasarawa State, the situation in the state is assuming some form of notoriety with security agencies seemingly helpless.

    It was gathered that Governor Abdullahi Sule has done his best to secure the state against all forms of criminality, and his determination in this direction is not in doubt. The encouragement and support security agencies are getting from the state government have been remarkable, but the level of criminality in the state is increasing rather than decreasing.

    Through the efforts of Governor Sule, Nasarawa State was able to secure high level security formations all aimed at curbing insecurity in the state. Some of the security formations include Mobile Training Barracks at Ende Hill in Nasarawa Eggon, Special Forces Army Barracks at Doma, Airforce Special Wing in Lafia, and new Mobile Police (MOPOL) unit in Agyaragu.

    Others are the military task force unit at Toto, the MOPOL Special unit at Umaisha, the MOPOL unit at Akwanga and the Army base in Keffi.

    But in spite of the presence of these security formations and the support from the state government, there is little to cheer. Admittedly,the  military task force at Toto has recorded some successes in dislodging criminals along that axis. But observers believe that more needs to be done to achieve relative security across the state.

    A security expert, Mr Jerome Adams, said “the searchlight must at this juncture be focused on re-evaluating the operations of these security formations and other security apparatus in the state, else the state will lose the investors currently developing the state courtesy of Governor Sule.

    “It beats my imagination that despite all the governor has done, there are still security breaches in Nasarawa State, culminating in kidnaping for ransom and killing of innocent citizens in a supermarket.

    “Based on what is happening now, I suggest a total review of the security situation in the state. The governor needs to wake up and double his efforts to secure the state and the investment.

    Governor Abdullahi Sule had in early November 2023, during an expanded security meeting over cases of insecurity in the state, revealed that Keffi and Karu local government areas, have continued to experience the influx of strange faces, suspected to be gangs of terrorists.

    The expanded meeting, which was aimed at addressing security concerns, had head of security outfits, traditional rulers, heads of tertiary institutions in the state and chairmen of affected local governments in attendance.

    Aside from fostering collaborative efforts for the safety of lives and property, the meeting shared insights and proposed innovative strategies to combat security challenges in the state.

    Governor Sule said government was going to mobilise resources and to assemble experts as a measure for comprehensive and inclusive approach to tackling security challenges in the state, hence the expanded meeting with key stakeholders.

    The governor said part of the reasons for convening the expanded security meeting was to deliberate on the unfolding regular attacks on farmers by suspected herders, with such attacks recorded in six local government areas, namely Nasarawa, Doma, Akwanga, Keana Obi and Awe.

    He raised the alarm over the influx of strange faces, which is already generating tension particularly around Keffi Local Government Area.

    “There is also, from what we have been able to gather, some level of influx of certain strangers that generate tension, especially around Keffi local government area

    “And we also had the opportunity to discover some criminal hideouts at riverside in Karu local government area. We are also able to have information on the lodging of some suspected drug peddlers in certain hotels, as well as what they call sleeper cell in Nasarawa, Taraba, Kaduna, created by terrorist gangs,” Governor Sule said.

    The governor, however, expressed willingness to fall back on the working relationship with traditional rulers towards ensuring security at the grassroots.

    “Part of the reasons for this meeting is to appeal to traditional rulers to resume the engagement of the local vigilante groups like they did in the past, which has yielded positive results.

    “We have relaxed on that, mostly on the part of government. We are going back to engage all those security groups to work with our people and security operatives,” he said

    He commended security agencies operating in the state for maintaining peace, law and order during this difficult period, and the efforts put in place towards the rescue operations of several kidnapped victims in the state.

  • Tudun Biri residents count blessings weeks after massive loss to error bombs 

    Tudun Biri residents count blessings weeks after massive loss to error bombs 

    • Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, left, Vice President Kashim Shettima, middle, House of Representatives Speaker, Tajudeen Abbas, right, consoling some victims of the bombing in hospital recently.

    Until the Kaduna village was erroneously bombed by a military drone on December 3 last year, Tudun Biri was a largely unknown community. Besides military forces battling to protect important national assets like the Kaduna International Airport, the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) and other institutions in the area against bandits, Tudun Biri was never in the news before the bloody December incident.

    Located in Igabi, one of the four metropolitan local government areas that make up Kaduna city, less that 20 kilometres away from the Kaduna seat of power and about five kilometres from the Kaduna International Airport, its inhabitants know not about electricity, tarred road, school or hospital, even as they drink from unhygienic pond and well water.

    However, after the unfortunate incident that left 85 people dead and dozens others injured, the village came into international limelight and became a Mecca of sort, attracting visitors from international organisations, the federal and state governments as well as notable individuals.

    The military drone had on the ill-fated night dropped its missiles on a large group of Tudun Biri villagers and their visitors who had gathered to mark the annual Maulud Nabbiy celebration. The first bomb, according to the locals, had killed a few people. But as they regrouped to carry the dead bodies and rescue the injured, the second bomb was dropped, killing more people.

    At a security council meeting called on Monday, December 4, the General Officer Commanding 1 Division of the Nigerian Army, Maj-General Valentine Okoro, admitted Nigerian Army’s responsibility for the attack, saying that it was carried out in error. According to a government statement issued at the end of the meeting, the GOC said “the Nigerian Army was on a routine mission against terrorists but inadvertently affected members of the community.”

    Similarly, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-General Taoreed Lagbaja, who was the first national figure to visit the community after the bomb incident, apologised profusely to the Tudun Biri community leaders, saying: “The Nigerian Army Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) on its routine mission observed movement of people suspected to be bandits, and having trailed them for some time, the decision was taken to strike, based on the observation of some tactics usually employed by bandits.

    “Unfortunately, the report we got thereafter revealed that it was innocent civilians in Tudun Biri that the drone carried out the strike on.”

    The Chief of Army Staff, who led some principal staff officers of the Army to the village, thereafter prayed for the repose of the victims’ souls at their mass grave before he proceeded to the hospital where he opened the floor of donations to the injured survivors and the community with N10 million.

    For days after the incident, cash and kind donations flowed in for the community as different blocs of the government trooped to Kaduna to make their commitment to rebuilding Tudun Biri. Aside the Federal Government’s promise to flag-off its Flak Initiative aimed at rebuilding crisis ridden communities in Tudun Biri, donations by Senate, House of Representatives, Northern Governors’ Forum and others amounted to over N700 million.

    The agrarian community was about 200 years ago a settlement of hunters who traversed the area into the Kamuku Forrest in Birnin Gwari Local Government Area in search of animals. But as development improved, the hunters transformed into farmers.

    However, since the emergence of banditry which has displaced many farming communities in the troubled local government areas of Chikun, Igabi, Birnin and Giwa in Kaduna Central zone, the people of Tudun Biri, a relatively small community, had resisted bandits’ several moves to sack the village, apparently due to the hunters’ gene in them.

    A septuagenarian local in Tudun Biri, Ahmed Adau said: “We the people of Tudun Biri are warriors. We are fighters. Our forefathers were hunters. That is why we are the only village that bandits could not displace in this axis.

    “The bandits have tried to displace us, but the more they tried, the more we resisted them.

    “They have sacked several other villages around us but we resisted them. That is why people from other smaller villages sacked by the bandits are taking refuge in our community.”

    Another resident of Tudun Biri, Comfort Yonana, said when the drone attack occurred, she was scared because she thought it was the bandits they had fought for years that had developed a means of attacking them from above.

    Yonana, a grandmother, said: “We have suffered at the hands of the bandits in this village and the bandits too have suffered in our hands. They often come around but our men always repel them. They had suffered casualties here when they attempted to kidnap our kinsmen.

    “So, at first, when the community was hit by the bomb on 3rd December, we thought it was the bandits that had developed another means of attacking us.

    “We were so heartbroken when we discovered that it was the military drone that bombed our community. But we have accepted it as the will of God and we pray that it does not happen again.

    “We have taken the drone attack as the will of God, because since then, a lot of positive things have happened to us. Now the government knows that we exist. Government officials and security men now come to our village every now then. Maybe what happened was designed by God so that our community will become a developed one,” she said.

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    Another resident of the community, Malam Sheriff Bashir, said as a community, the people of Tudun Biri had put the event of December 3, 2023 behind them despite the number of people that died. He however said the only thing the community wants from the government is for it to fulfill the promises it made to them and improve security in the area.

    Bashir said: “As a community, we have resolved to leave this incident behind us. We are believers and we accepted the incident as the will of God, because if it was not meant to happen to us, nobody has the power to bring the calamity upon us.

    “It was God that made it happen and we have accepted it as the will of God. So, we are not accusing anybody and we are not holding anyone responsible. We have the belief that it is still God that can help us to pass through this phase

    “The only thing we are saying is that the government should fulfill the promises it made to us, because we live in a pitiful condition as you can see. We are villagers and poor farmers. We need help.

    “We are also calling on the government to fortify this area and the entire country so that poor people can go about peacefully while seeking their daily bread.”

    Even as they still mourn their lost loved ones and the injured are recuperating, the promises that followed the unfortunate bombing incident have raised the hope of Tudun Biri people for a taste of the dividends of democracy.

    One of the community’s key actors, who is privy to the Kaduna State Government’s efforts towards ensuring the fulfillment of promises made to Tudun Biri, Malam Idris Dahiru, said already, the Kaduna State Government, led by Governor Uba Sani, had started fulfilling some of the promises made to them.

    According to Dahiru, in the last one month, the state government has been responsible for the treatment, feeding and clothing of the injured victims while those already treated and discharged were being accommodated at the Women and Children Shelter where they are provided with psycho-social care.

     “Also, as a demonstration of his commitment to the development of Tudun Biri, Governor Uba Sani has set up a committee chaired by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Hadiza Balarabe.

    “This committee is responsible for the management of the donations so far made for our community and to also monitor the execution of the developmental projects promised Tudun Biri.

     “The Governor and his team members like the Executive Secretary of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Director General Interfaith and others are making frantic efforts to wipe our tears away.

    “We know they cannot bring back our loved ones that died, but they have really shown that they are with us. We are grateful for that and we trust that they will fulfill every bit of their promises and help to follow up on the promises made by others,” Dahiru said.

    He however joined his kinsmen in appealing to the government to put in place adequate security in Tudun Biri and environs before the commencement of the major intervention projects, so that, bandits will not disrupt the work in progress.

    Governor Uba Sani while inaugurating the Tudun Biri Project implementation committee last weekend, confirmed the commencement of the intervention programmes in Tudun Biri, saying: “We have commenced the construction of access roads to Tudun Biri and other affected communities in the area.” 

    The governor added: “The Federal Government, National Assembly, Nigeria Governors Forum, corporate organisations and well-meaning Nigerians have made donations and announced intervention programmes aimed at bringing succour to the distressed community, rebuilding the community, and giving the people renewed hope and sense of security.

    “As a responsive, responsible and accountable government, we must take keen interest in how donations and intervention programmes for the Tudun Biri community are disbursed and executed.

    “We want to ensure that the donations go to the actual beneficiaries. We want to monitor the implementation of the projects to ensure their speedy and effective implementation.

    “This Committee has therefore been constituted for the purpose of accountability, inclusivity and transparency.

    “The Committee will serve as the Implementation and Monitoring Mechanism for Tudun Biri Projects and Funds.”

    Membership of the Committee was drawn from representatives of the victims of the incident (next of kins of the departed and injured) as well as community, religious and political leaders from Tudun Biri community and Igabi Local Government Area.

  • I regret marrying four-year-old girl, 58-year-old, ‘groom’ laments

    I regret marrying four-year-old girl, 58-year-old, ‘groom’ laments

    • •Baby bride’s  parents, monarch, others appear before Bayelsa govt

    The parents of the four-year-old girl who got ‘married’ to a 58-year-old man, Elder Akpos, last month, at Akeddei community in Sagbama Local Government Area of Bayelsa State and three others have been handed a temporary reprieve by the state government through the Gender Response Initiative Team (GRIT) over the alleged child marriage.

    The state government team, made up of the Chairman of GRiT, Dr. Dise Ogbise Goddy-Harry, the Bayelsa State Coordinator of the Child Protection Network, Kizito Andah, and the Bayelsa State Chairman of BANGOF, Comrade Taritei Boco, heard the submissions of the father of the minor, Elder Morris Aboma, the alleged husband, Akpos Napoleon and the paramount ruler of the community, King Moneyman Binabo.

    In their separate submissions before the government team, they all insisted that the purported child marriage was a traditional practice termed ‘Koripamo’ performed in order to save little girl’s life.

    They pointed out that it is a cultural practice in Akeddei community, Oyakiri clan in Sagbama LGA whereby if a girl child always falls sick, a man will be required to drop a symbolic amount in  order to save the little girl from dying.

    They noted that what transpired  between the minor and Akpos was not a formal marriage but an Ijaw cultural practice.

    The trio noted that whenever the traditional rite of “Koripamo” is conducted, the man who pays the “token is not required to take her as a wife neither will he  stop her from marrying any man of her choice when she is up to the age of marriage. The practice can be performed on a boy child or girl child.”

    Father of the minor, Aboma, who spoke in his Ijaw language, said her daughter was always sick to the point of death, adding that according to Akeddei tradition, the only way to save her life was for a man to pay a symbolic bride price and save the child’s life and that it has nothing to do with a real marriage.

    On his part, the minor’s purported husband said: “As it is now, I am regretting doing all I did just to save the child’s life as she’s no longer sick again. Such tradition has been going on but it has not been celebrated to the extent of hiring canopy, sound system and cooking of food.

    “But because she said if I didn’t do what she said, she would die, I had to look for money and did it since it involves life. As it is, I am frustrated by this whole issue.”

    The paramount ruler of Akeddei community, HRH Moneyman Binabo, in his submission said he heard of a ‘marriage’ in the community during the Christmas period but did not have full details until the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Sagbama Police Station asked him to produce those that got married in the community.

    Binabo said he had to invite the parents of the little girl to get detailed information on what happened on the 27th of December and the parents told him that the little girl had been sick and that one Akpos Napoleon had to drop a symbolic amount in order to save the life of the little girl.

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    He further said that what happened in Akeddei community was not a formal marriage but a fulfillment of a cultural practice.

    He, however, said that what surprised him was the demand of the little girl that food be cooked, canopy and a sound system be hired to celebrate the marriage.

    The paramount ruler added that the man  who pays the token on the girl is not expected to take her home to live as husband and wife nor stop the girl from marrying any other person of her choice when she is old enough to marry.

    Speaking on the matter, Kizito Andah of  CPN and Taritei Boco of BANGOF said from the submissions of the parents of the little girl, the alleged husband and the paramount ruler of Akeddei community, what happened was not a formal marriage but a cultural practice known as “Koripamo”.

    The duo noted that from the information gathered, the little girl had not been sexually abused as confirmed by Dr James Omietimi at the GRIT office and that the child is living a normal life with no  relationship with the 54-year-old man.

    Also speaking immediately after the meeting, the chairman of GRIT, Dr. Dise Ogbise Goddy-Harry, stated that the  deliberation was frank and fruitful and promised to give further updates whenever a collective decision is taken by the state Ministry of Women Affairs, Children and  Social Development and all stakeholders.

    “As I stated earlier, the Bayelsa State government is child friendly and will do anything to protect all the children of the state from any form of perceived abuse.”

  • ‘How family of seven bodies were pierced by rods in Imo auto crash’

    ‘How family of seven bodies were pierced by rods in Imo auto crash’

    • 13 persons involved, seven died, six injured-FRSC
    • Neighbour recalls last encounter with victims’ mother

    Fresh facts have emerged about the family that died in an auto crash while travelling for Christmas celebration.

    Contrary to reports that eight people died in the incident, The Nation investigation revealed that the causality figure was seven.

    In fact, checks revealed that 13 people were involved in the auto crash. Six people survived the incident.

    Eyewitnesses who spoke with The Nation narrated how they helped to pull out rods which pierced the bodies of the eight family members involved in the auto crash which occurred on December 29, 2023 at the Amanwozuzu junction in Ikeduru Local Government Area of Imo State.

    The family was traveling home with 13 persons for the New Year celebration when their Sienna car Reg no ACH 318 AA ash colour rammed into a stationary truck transporting rods.

    Our findings revealed that the family took off from their residence at Umuerim in Umudibia Autonomous Community, Owerri West LGA and were heading to their hometown at Ehime Mbano when the accident occurred.

    The deceased were all members of a single family, including the father, John Anyanwu, wife, and children.

    A visit to their residence at Umuerim showed quietude as neighbours wore sad looks. 

    Expressing deep grief over the accident,  one of the neighbours,  Ijeoma Opara said she saw the late Mrs. Anyanwu a day before the accident when she came to the Anglican Church inside the Nekede Federal Polytechnic compound where they both worshipped  to carry out church service.

    “When we  finished cleaning the church compound, she asked me if I knew the way  that leads to their residence though the back gate. I didn’t  know we were having the last encounter, ” she said sobbing.

    One of the youth leaders in the area who gave his name simply as Udoaka stated that the rod pierced through the bodies of the victims, and the vehicle had to be broken to bring out the lifeless bodies of the family members.

    “We pulled the lifeless bodies from the rod, it was a gory sight as the human flesh was forcefully pulled out of the rod with blood. My brother I don’t want to recount the experience, I will never wish my enemy such a horrifying experience,” he said sadly.

    Additionally, another eyewitness, Chief Matthias Ngerem said that the stationary truck carrying the rods was blocking the road, emphasizing that the tragedy could have been averted if the truck had not parked on the road.

    But the Federal Road Safety Corps Sector Commander, Evaristus Ebeniro told our correspondent that preliminary investigation revealed  that the stationary truck was off the road when the driver of the sienna car who was on high speed rammed into the truck.

     “Our preliminary investigation which is ongoing shows that the truck driver was adding water into his radiator probably due to the issue of overheating when the man who as eyewitnesses confirmed was on high speed rammed into the truck.

     “He said the Sienna driver who was said to be on a high speed could have been distracted by the children. How can you carry a whole family and you are speeding? It was possible it was too late when he saw the truck.

    “However, we are still investigating the accident under what is called Crash Investigation, a thorough investigation which could be tendered in court.”

    According to him, “the report will soon be ready as it takes one week to conclude the Crash Investigation.”

    He explained that the vehicles had been moved to the police station which was close to the scene of the accident while the investigation continues.

    Contrary to reports that eight persons were killed in the auto crash, he revealed that it was 13 persons that were involved in the accident with seven dead and six injured.

    “13 persons were in the Sienna car, seven died, six were critically injured,

    In all, two adults and 11 children were in the car, ” he stated.

    We are yet to ascertain the identities of the victims involved in the accident, but we are carrying out as I said earlier a thorough crash investigation on the registration of the vehicles on our database.”

    Though the government of Imo State has not announced specific measures to prevent similar accidents, the FRSC Commander said that the government would continue to enlighten the public, particularly road users on the need to avoid over speeding.

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    He said in general, the government typically works with law enforcement agencies and relevant authorities to improve road safety through measures such as enforcing traffic laws, maintaining road infrastructure, and conducting public awareness campaigns.

    However, the state Police Commissioner, CP Aboki Danjuma, who spoke to The Nation through the police spokesman, Henry Okoye, said that the command was investigating the truck driver with a view to arraigning him if found guilty.

    “We are investigating to check if the truck was obstructing traffic and at the end, we are going to arraign the person that caused the accident with appropriate charges.”

    He said, however, that proper parking and adherence to road safety regulations could have potentially averted the tragedy.

    “This highlights the importance of following road safety measures to prevent accidents and ensure the well-being of all road users.”

    He said the lifeless bodies of the corpse have been deposited at the mortuary for preservation while discreet investigation is ongoing to ascertain the remote cause of the accident.

    The Commissioner of Police Imo State Command prayed for the repose of the souls of the victims that lost their lives  in the tragic incident and their family the fortitude to bear the loss.

    He cautioned motorists to obey traffic rules while driving and avoid over speeding which is the major cause of most road accidents.