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Tag: Ambode

  • Ambode: I’ll respect lawmakers

    Ambode: I’ll respect lawmakers

    An All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship aspirant in Lagos State, Akinwumi Ambode, has promised to respect the legislature, if he is elected.

    He spoke at a private dinner with members of the House of Assembly as part of his mobilisation drive to emerge the candidate.

    His campaign got a boost with the attendance of 36 of the 40 members. The lawmakers gave him a standing ovation.

    Ambode told them he would not only respect the legislature if elected, but he would also submit himself to the party’s authority.

    The aspirant promised to build on the achievements of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu and Governor Babatunde Fashola.

    He also highlighted his core programmes under the acronym: LAGOS – Leadership, Accountability, Good Governance, Opportunities and Service and promised not to let the state down.

    Ambode, who declared to run at the Onikan Stadium last month, will begin a tour of the local governments today, according to a statement by his campaign organisation.

  • Ambode lifts alma mater

    Ambode lifts alma mater

    St Jude Anglican Primary  School, Ebute Metta is wearing a new look, thanks to Lagos State governorship aspirant, Akinwunmi Ambode.

    Ambode, a former pupil of the school, reached out to his alma mater through the La Roche Leadership Foundation, which he started in 2011 to address education and leadership issues among the youth.

    The 140-year old school was refurbished, painted, electrically-wired, and fitted with some classroom furniture.  The foundation also rehabilitated toilets and purchased toys for the learning delight of young children.

    The handing over ceremony was graced by parents, pupils, and members of the community, and supporters of the governorship hopeful.

    While handing over the school on Tuesday, Administrator of the foundation, Mrs Marina Osoba, said that the charity focuses on education because of its importance to development.

    “What is important in life is good education.  It is something no one can take from you.  And if you have good education you can go anywhere,” she said.

    APC Chieftain, Otunba Tayo Oyemade who chaired the occasion, thanked the foundation for remembering the school that has produced many influential people in the society.  He also praised Ambode from remembering his roots and assured the community that he would do even more as governor of the state.

    “Beautiful people have come out of this school.  The APC chairman for Lagos State, Henry Ajomale, graduated from this school.  Just like these children are seated here, that was how Ambode too was when he started from this school.  These children will become big like them someday.  We have just started.  I am happy that after thinking about what to do Ambode decided to start from the school where he was trained,” he said.

    The school’s Head Teacher, Augustina Nwaezapu said the intervention started like a joke.  She said before the rehabilitation, the school was in a very bad shape given its age.  However, with the refurbishment, teachers and parents are happy about the learning environment.

    “Before now, some of the buildings were going bad.  Such renovation makes people to be attracted to the school.  It started like play.  Two people came here and said Ambode sent them.  Then, I did not know him.  But I was happy.  If we have people like this that remember that St Jude made them, it will be good.  I told them to tell him that the board that he used and the chairs he used were still there.  After two weeks they came to ask what we actually needed and I told them they could do anything.  Today, they have removed all the blackboards and provided us with 10 white boards, created a playroom with toys, provided teachers’ furniture and promised more, and wired the whole building,” she said.

    Going forward, Mrs Osoba said the foundation plans to stock the school library with books and keep in touch with the pupils through regular counseling programme.

     

  • Ambode and continuity of excellence in Lagos

    As Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola approaches the exit after two four-year terms, the question of his successor is on the front burner.  Who will succeed Fashola and raise the bar in terms of people-oriented and people-applauded governance in the state? The playing field is filled with aspirants of different complexions from the major political parties. However, it is interesting to note that one particular would-be governor stands out.

    When Akinwunmi Ambode, a governorship aspirant in the All Progressives Congress (APC), retired voluntarily after a 27-year career in the Lagos State Civil Service, including stints as the Accountant-General from 2006 to 2012, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance, and Auditor-General for Local Government, to pursue other dreams, it may not have been clear that he would later emerge as perhaps the most credible governorship aspirant ahead of the 2015 election. But today, he is possibly the most experienced individual in terms of familiarity with the state civil service structure to seek the position of governor since Lagos State was created in 1967.

    It is a testimony to Ambode’s observed and undeniable quality that Fashola reportedly wrote, in a glowing letter of commendation: “I write on behalf of the people of Lagos to commend your high sense of dedication, selflessness and integrity which you brought to bear on the civil service. I wish to specifically remark that working closely with you has been of tremendous mutual benefit, particularly in the present administration.” He continued: “You have displayed high sense of professionalism and have been a good team player, guided by the philosophy of a true public officer, who must place himself last while rendering service to the public. We are convinced that your brilliance and zeal will make you excel in your future endeavours.”

    It is not surprising that Ambode, 51, Chief Executive Officer of Brandsmiths Consulting, made a passing reference to the characterisation at his May 15 book launch at the Civic Centre, Lagos.  The presentation of two books, Public Sector Accounting by Ambode, and his biography, The Art of Selfless Service by Marina Osoba, provided a fitting forum for him to bask in the glory of his recognition.   “The letter of commendation by Fashola is my gold medal for public service,” Ambode said at the event.

    Certainly, Fashola knew what he was talking about, and his striking song of praise for Ambode was firmly rooted in reality.  Ambode is credited with designing a system that increased the state’s revenue generation from N600 million to N10 billion. A related excerpt from his biography illustrates his expertise: “In a popular business newspaper, Business Day, of Tuesday 2nd July 2013, it was reported that Fiscal Management in Lagos State had surpassed that of the Federal Government and internally generated revenue from taxes has touched the 75% mark in stark contrast to the Federal Government’s 20%. Also, the paper further stated that Lagos State makes up to 20% of total Nigerian GDP and 40% of non-oil GDP.”

    The narrative continued: “All these gains from the smallest state geographically (that is in terms of  size) showing that Lagos State which is without any of the rich mineral resources that other states have in abundance can think outside the box and create wealth using what little it has and building on its commercial base.  These great strides are particularly noted to have happened in the last six years (2006-2012) during which Akin headed the State Treasury Office (STO).”

    ”If we take the concept of resource generation, allocation and distribution into cognisance and apply the principles of good governance, we will achieve economic growth and development,” Ambode said, while presenting a paper  titled “Public Finance: Probity and Accountability”  at a workshop organised in August by the Lagos State Government and the Lagos Business School at the Pan-African University, Lagos.

    Also important in considering his suitability for the office of governor is his work experience at the local government level, given that the so-called third tier is regarded as the closest to the people. Ambode himself observed: “If you work successfully at local government level and you are able to make a difference, there is nowhere else you cannot work successfully.”

    It is logical to expect that successful governance after Fashola’s era would not only require building on his administration’s achievements, which Ambode has signified that he would do by speaking of “continuity of excellence”. It would also demand a re-imagined governmental approach to cope with the increasing challenges of a megacity with at least a population of 17 million, which may soon become a metacity or hypercity with at least a population of 20 million. This is why an individual with Ambode’s broad perspective, reinforced by post-retirement training in top international business and leadership institutions, would be in a better position to manage the diversity of the populace for the social good.

    What Lagos deserves at this juncture is a political helmsman who brings to politics a useful knowledge-driven vision as well as experience of the workings of the administrative system, which Ambode represents. This is not the time, or more precisely, the time is past when governorship aspirants, especially in Lagos, with all its urban sophistication, would expect that all it takes is mouthing populist slogans without manifest competence in what may be considered essential to modern governance, namely, a solid developmental visualisation informed by a practical blueprint.

    It is remarkable that, beyond his respected financial wizardry and managerial mastery, Ambode’s claim to selfless service, which is also recognised, is another plus. This aspect is important because a leader without a correct sense of service is ultimately negative.  Service to the people, in the purest sense of the concept, is apparently not alien to Ambode.  It is instructive to note Ambode’s idea of leadership. According to him, “A true leader sees his work as selfless service towards a higher purpose. A true leader should be judged by what he has not – ego, arrogance and self interest.”

    Against the backdrop of this philosophy, Ambode promises an inspirational departure from egocentrism, which is the bane of many political leaders. In this respect, he would appear to be not only a well-rounded personality, but also an appealing mind.

    Ambode’s description of Fashola’s letter of commendation as a “gold medal” deserves further reflection. Only individuals of his type who are regarded as gold medal material, rather than those who may be labelled as silver or bronze medalists, should qualify for consideration in the governorship race, and Ambode seems to be in a class of his own in this respect.

    Demonstrable commitment to good governance and ability to deliver what the people yearn for should rank among the uppermost qualifications for the type of progressive leadership that would benefit the state at this point in time. As Fashola prepares to leave the stage, the state deserves an exemplary successor who will be focused on excellence in office informed by a mastery of wealth creation and a humanitarian orientation.

    The question of who should rule needs a convincing answer as the state searches for a leader who has not only the capacity to make a difference but also the enthusiasm to do so. Ambode will not be a square peg in a round hole, considering his profile and the unassailable evidence of its genuineness. The All Progressives Congress (APC) must get it right; and the electorate too.

    • Ayoola writes from Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos
  • My agenda for Lagos, by Ambode

    My agenda for Lagos, by Ambode

    Lagos State All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship aspirant, Mr. Akinwumi Ambode, yesterday unfolded his agenda, saying that he would build on the foundation laid by Governor Babatunde Fashola, SAN, and his predecessor, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu.

    He promised to preside over a government of continuity, which will promote accountability, quality leadership, good governance and equal opportunities for all Nigerians, if elected as the next governor.

    Ambode said: “Lagos is my state and you are my people. I shall work to serve you. I shall never do less. Here and now, I dedicate myself to this task. I shall not flinch nor lose focus.”

    The former Accountant-General and Permanent Secretary Ministry of Finance declared his intention to run for the number one seat at a carnival-like rally at the Onikan Stadium, Onikan, Lagos.

    “It was witnessed by notable traditional rulers from the five divisions of Lagos State, Muslim and Christian clerics, friends and associates, and party supporters from 20 local governments and 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs).

    At the rally were party chieftains, including Pa Abiodun Sunmola; Pa Alabi Macfoy;  the Chairman of ‘Conference 57, Hon. Akeem Sulaimon Pris; House of Representatives members-Alhaji Yakubu Balogun, Dr. Sanuel Adejare, Hon. Toyin Suarau, Hon. Morouf Akinderu-Fatai, and Hon. James Faleke; former Agriculture Commissioner Asipa Kaoli Olusanya; Hon. Paul Kalejaye; former members of House of Assembly Hon. Obafemi Durosimi and Babatunde Ogala; Hon. Bolaji Ariyoh; Chief adeola Oyedele; Primate Dare Akindele and Mr. Rotimi Martins.

    Others include Mrs. Teju Phillips; Hon. Segun Adetola; Dr. Fola Fosudo, and a retired Permanent Secretary, Dr. Femi Onanuga.

    The representatives of the Muslim Community was led by Imam Olubodun Gbajabiamila, who stood for the Chief Imam of Lagos, Imam Garuba Akinola. Other dignitaries include the three wives the Eleko of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu-Olori Fadeke, Olori Titilola and Olori Olanike.

    Wide endorsement

    Gbajabiamila, who rendered the opening prayer, reflected on the challenges of governance, saying that Ambode is competent to succeed Fashola. He said: “Ambode has been assessed by the Oba of Lagos, Oba Akiolu; the Chief Imam of Lagos, Alhaji Akinola Garuba and the political leader, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu. We pray that he will excel in the office.”

    No fewer than 60 traditional rulers and chiefs were at the venue. They included Oba Babatunde Ogunlaja of Noforija Epe; the Alagege of Orile-Agege, Oba Ambaliu Agbedeyi; the Onitire of Itire, Oba Lateef Dauda; the Onitedo of Itedo, Oba tajudeen Elemoro;  the Olu of Ojokoro, Oba Oluwalambe Taiwo; Oba Ayinde Balogun of Isheri;  the Onibeju of Ibeju, Oba Rafiu Saliu; the Olorogun Ado of Lagos, Chief Waheed Yesufu; Chief Lateef Ajose; Chief Muideen Shobalu; Chief Tunde Temionu, and former Chairman of Kosofe Council, Hon. Tunde Braimoh, who was the master of ceremonies.

    From sunrise, the stadium was aglow with festivities, with ace musicians, Wasiu Pasuma and Olamide, and popular comedians, Mr. Babatunde Omidina (Baba Suwe), Mr. Lamidi Opebe and Mr. Ojo Arowosafe (Fadeyi Oloro), thrilling the crowd.

    “Banners of different shapes welcomed the party faithful to the venue. Itinerant drummers ushered in party leaders and other eminent persons to the high table.  The event, which lasted for five hours, was peaceful.

    Enter the host

    Around 10.40 am, the aspirant stormed the stadium with a large crowd that followed him from his residence. Decked in a white agbada with a blue cap to match, he waved the broom to the jubilating crowd, dancing and singing.

    He was led to the podium by Pa Summola and presented to the people by Hon. Oris, who reiterated the support of the 57 council chairmen for his ambition.

    Oris said: “Tinubu started the journey to modernity in Lagos. He was succeeded by Fashola, the actualiser. Today, we present Akinwumi Ambode. Lagos requires a financial wizard to continue from where Fashola will stop next year. He will do better.”

    Excited at the huge crowd of supporters, Ambode exuded confidence, saying that it attested to his popularity and acceptance by Lagosians, following his state-wide consultations.

    He said: “In recognition of this support, I, Akinwumi Ambode, in your presence and in the presence of God, formally put myself forward to run for the position of the governor of Lagos State.  I make this declaration with the highest sense of responsibility. I am putting nyself forward because I belive I have the qualities required to continue the giant strides which our great party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), has achieved in Lagos in recent years.

     In his speech titled Continuing the Progress, Securing the Future, the Epe born politician said having witnessed 15 years of growth and development under Asiwaju Tinubu and Fashola, Lagos State deserved a governor that would build on their achievements.

    He said: “I stand before you today in the spirit of the continuity of excellence that Lagos is known for. My vision and mission is to create a clean, secure and prosperous Lagos State driven by a vibrant economy and supported by quality service, equity and justice.

    “I am resolved to offer you genuine leadership that will be accountable with all the principles of good governance, a government of inclusion that will not leave any race or gender behind. No matter your age, sex, tribe of any other status, as long as you reside in Lagos, we will make Lagos liveable for you.”

    Ambode promised to implement the APC blueprint on wealth and job creation, in consonance with its agenda for change and prosperity for Nigerians.  He said stakeholders, including the aged, widows, artisans, students, children, the physically challenged and professionals, will be carried along by his administration.

    He added: “For corporate Lagos, Lagos is open for business, even for greater business. We have the political will to move Lagos to the next level. We are going to face our challenges by ourselves. Nobody is going to do that for us. With our collective will, we will overcome them.”

    Gazing at the party primaries and general elections, he said: “I call on Muslims, Christians and people of other religious persuasions to come out en mass and ensure we vote in a candidate that has the interest of Lagos and Lagosians at heart. A candidate that is passionate about Lagos. A candidate that truly understands the needs of the ordinary people. I am the candidate.”

    Ambode also said that his administration will not discriminate against any tribe or ethnic group.

    He said: “Lagos is the most cosmopolitan state in Nigeria and there is no room for discrimination. Whether you are Igbo, Efik, Ijaw, Hausa, Fulani, a foreigner, whoever you are, so far you live and work in Lagos, our government will work for you and you will be adequately represented.”

    Urging Nigerians to also support the push for power shift at the centre, the politician advised Lagosians to mobilise their families and relations in and outside the state to vote the APC in next year’s election.

    Firing salvos at the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), he added: “We are tired of transformation without motion. In their kind of transformation, the more they brag about, the less we see things transformed. And God will help us.”

    Ambode paid tribute to patriots who have served Lagos meritoriously. He said Lagosians will not forget the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Gen. Mobolaji Johnson, Alhaji Lateef Jakande, Asiwaju Tinubu and Fashola. He urged them to also vote for a new governor who will lead the state to greater prosperity in next year’s election.

    Ambode added: “I stand before you today as the bridge between the elderly and the youth. I hold before you a beacon that summons us all to building together a more prosperous Lagos. I have the competence, experience and determination to lead Lagos State to greater economic heights and prosperity. I ask for your support and your votes that will send me to Alausa to continue my tradition of selfless service to this great state.”

    Testimonials

    Ogala, Olusanya and Temionu, who spoke, shortly before the declaration, attested to Ambode’s competence, urging delegates to vote for him at the primaries.

    Ogala said: “I was privileged to work with him as a legislator when I was a member of the House Committee on Finance. I found him to be very committed. A perfect gentleman. He has a good pedigree. He is educated. He went into the civil servie and became a permanent secretary.

    “In tose days, when the local governments were starved of funds by the Federal Government, the councils survived the onslaught because of the financial wizardry of Ambode under the leadership of our able leader, Tinubu. For Lagos to continue to grow, we need Ambode.”

    Olusanya said Ambode will get the highest number of votes at the primaries and the general election from the six local governments in Ikorodu Division. He described him as a “techno-politician”, who has garnered experience in grassroots politics as a civil servant in the local government and civil service.

    The former commissioner added: “Ambode kicked off his career in Lagos as a waste disposal agent. He moved to the local government as a treasurer. He moved to the civil service and through creative financial engineering, the state survived when the Federal Government moved against the local governments.

    “ On behalf of the six Ikorodu local governments, I tell you that Ambode will have the votes of delegates. He will get 85 per cent of the votes from Ikorodu.”

  • Ambode gets more support

    Ambode gets more support

    The Lagos Coalition of Northern Indigenes (LCNI) and the Niger Delta United Front (NDUF) endorsed yesterday former Lagos State Accountant-General, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode.

    Ambode will declare his governorship intention today at the Onikan Stadium, Lagos, today.

    The groups, in a statement by their spokesmen, Abubakar Mohammed (LCNI) and John Odili (NDUF), said Ambode’s leadership qualities and his rich resume were the reasons for their support.

    Mohammed said: “He is a man with a broad national outlook which gives him ample advantage over others.

    “He is at home with indigenes who hail from other geo-political zones.

    “The All Progressives Congress (APC) has in Ambode an invaluable asset that is acceptable to people of diverse cultures living in the state and who will vote for him when he emerges his party’s candidate.

    “His laudable antecedents place him above others.

    Odili said: “It is a fact that Ambode is a detribalised Nigerian who will give indigenes of the various tribes residing here their dues in Lagos. We have met with him and he has assured us.”

  • Ambode in the public arcade

    It was an informal conference of sorts at the Seminar Café, the refreshment rendezvous inside the sprawling premises of the Lagos Television (LTV8), Agidingbi, Ikeja, four weeks ago.

    Resplendent in uniform aso ebi and numbering about 10, including three women, the “discussants” were guests of a couple that had come to walk down the aisle at the popular Blue Roof events centre – within the same premises.

    As assorted liquor washed sumptuous meals down their throats, one of them – an elderly man whose name was simply disclosed as Andrew – drew a deep pregnant sigh. Within seconds, he changed the kernel of their light discourse when one of them demanded to know why the sudden change in Andrew’s mood.

    “It is true that we are having a swell moment here, but I must confess that my mind is filled with thoughts about the future of this my cherished state. How I wish God answers my fervent prayer as the next governorship election draws near!” He gave a hint about the “storm” in his mind.

    “Ha … ha …? Are you contesting for governorship? Tell us now so that we know how to work for you,” one of them, a woman, cut in jocularly. A bout of laughter followed.

    Suddenly, Andrew wore a serious mien. “What I have in mind is not a matter to laugh about. For three days recently, I prayed and fasted over the chance of the man who, to me, has all it takes to sustain the tradition of excellent administration, which has remained unbroken since when Tinubu (ex-Governor Bola Tinubu) was in the saddle in this state,” rising on his feet, he replied.

    This poser naturally followed: “Who then is in your mind?” His reply was emphatic: “Akin Ambode! He is the exceptional technocrat who is now being voluntarily supported by genuine lovers of a new Lagos across the state.”

    For a while, the 2015 governorship ambition of Akinwunmi Ambode, a shrewd accountant, who doubles as the immediate past accountant-general of the state and a leading contender on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) became the kernel of their discourse.

    The contribution of one of them, Sola Adetayo, was a clear pointer to the indubitable fact that whatever one does at one point in time in a leadership position will sooner or later become a reference point.

    His co-discussants hanged on his lips when he took them down memory lane. “I was well aware that the man (Ambode) was the one who, as the prime custodian of the state’s treasury under ex-Governor Bola Tinubu. We all remember the political war that happened between Tinubu and the then President Olusegun Obasanjo when the latter seized the funds due to local government councils in the state following the controversy over the creation of additional local councils in the state.

    “It is to the eternal credit of Ambode that he, through a rare ingenuity, evolved the financial infrastructure that helped the state survive those trying times. It therefore goes without saying that such a talent is needed to steer the ship of a state as complex as Lagos”, Adetayo said amid affirmatory nods by his hearers.

    Disclosing that he was a retired civil servant in the state, he spoke about his experience when he retired from the Ministry of Finance under Ambode: “When I retired in February 2006, I never in my wildest imagination thought I would not take years to get my entitlement. I got the most pleasant shock of my life when a few weeks after, I was paid my entitlements. When I made enquiries about how it happened, my colleagues told me that it was Ambode that insisted that our entitlement must not be delayed because having worked diligently for the state in our service years, we did not deserve to be paid back with hunger and deprivations in retirement”.

    “I was happy. I later dawned on me that it was the same Ambode who would always ensure that our salary was promptly paid when we were in service. He would always say that a well-motivated worker whose salary was not delayed would serve diligently and honestly to move the state to greater heights. He was passionately in love with the state and it showed in his utterances and actions all through. Since then, each time I remember him, my mind always prays for him. I never knew I would have this opportunity to pay him back. In fact, I can’t wait to have him lead the state after the coming election.”

    Virtually everyone contributed one good thing or the other that had reportedly been said about the accountant. A Surulere-based woman, who gave her name as Alhaja Funmilola Alabi, said: “I have never met him (Ambode), but I remember that a friend of mine once ran to him when her son gained admission into the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN). My friend, a widow was hard up for money and he was desperate to secure education for her only boy. Somebody told him to go to Ambode, assuring that he would help him whether or not he knows her”.

    “My friend did not believe it. She just summoned the courage one day. Following some enquiries about his residence, my friend visited thrice before she could meet him at home. My friend said she was about weeping when she was narrating her ordeal to Ambode who, according to her, asked her not to cry. To cut the story short, the man volunteered to sponsor my friend’s son through school. He is in his final year now.

    This writer was in a commercial but heading for Ojota from Lagos Island last week. The main issue being discussed was the forthcoming governorship election in the state. The concern of everyone is the ultimate emergence of the ideal man who has all it takes to ensure that the current train of development in the state is not drawn back to the “service lane.”

    After a concoction of arguments, an Igbo man, Cletus Nwachukwu, who claimed to be a trader at the popular Tejuosho market submitted: “I am not from this state, but I appreciate what Tinubu and Fashola have contributed to governance in the state. I have seen the posters of all manners of aspirant gunning for governorship and I have heard a lot about them. However, from my findings, one person stands out; he is the man called Akin Ambode”.

    “I have never met him (Ambode), but I have heard a lot of things about his virtues as a leader and manager of resources. Many have referred to him as an astute manager, an uncompromising disciplinarian, a humanist of no mean order and a progressive-minded technocrat. I am convinced that he will do the job by seeing the state move on steadily on the highway of all-round development.”

    Just yesterday, the same issue kept lips busy at a taxi park right at Ladipo Junction in Mushin. An Osun State-born commercial cab driver, Alhaji Rafiu Oladele, said although he is a member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), he would vote for Ambode should he emerge as APC’s candidate because his assessment of the man had convinced him.

    “I am a devout Muslim who believes in truth. Yes, I belong to PDP as a party, but my concern is the progress of where I earn my livelihood. I have been lucky to move with a few people who have gained one thing or the other from the connection with Ambode and I am impressed. I have been made to believe that we will have a duteous and God-fearing governor in him. So, I will do my best possible to work for his success at the polls if he emerges as APC’s candidate. He will be a good choice as the one whose head the cap fits”, Oladele said.

    Besides his exemplary leadership acumen and public-spirited temperament, many at various for a today are always quick to allude to Ambode’s stint at the corridor of power in the state as an exclusive political advantage that will likely earn him victory at the polls over any other contender.

    Will the state retain the luck to have the right man to steer its ship? The moment of decision is almost here!

     

    • Akinlabi is a Lagos-based political analyst

  • Ambode to announce plan tomorrow

    A former Accountant General of Lagos State, Mr. Akinwumi Ambode, will tomorrow  declare his intention to run for governor on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    Ambode was the first to pick an expression of interest nomination form for the November 15 primaries.

    A statement by his campaign group said the declaration would take place at the Onikan Stadium, at 10am.

    The declaration followed the endorsement he got from Islamic clerics on Tuesday at the Blue Roof, Lagos State Television complex, Agidingbi, Ikeja.

    The approval to use the stadium was granted by Governor Babatunde Fashola, who praised Ambode’s civil service career.

    The statement said: “Tomorrow’s declaration, which is expected to be a carnival-like endorsement by stakeholders from the 57 councils in Lagos State, is an opportunity for the aspirant to thank party stalwarts and to sell his five-point agenda of continuity and consolidation.”

  • Governor praises Ambode

    Governor praises Ambode

    The governorship bid of an All Progressives Congress (APC) aspirant, Akinwunmi Ambode, received a boost at the weekend as letter of commendation written to him by Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola became public.

    Ambode, who retired as the state’s Accountant-General after 27 years, was described by the governor as a dedicated and selfless man.

    A group, Lagos Deserves More Forum, also said at the weekend it had been working with different groups across the state to broaden Ambode’s political support base.

    The group said it had been waiting for Ambode to collect the APC forms.

    In the letter of commendation dated December 2, 2012, Fashola wrote:  “I write on behalf of the government and people of Lagos State to specially praise you for the high sense of dedication, selflessness, loyalty and integrity, which you have brought to bear during you public service career.

    “You have always been guided by the philosophy of a true public officer, who must place himself last while rendering service to the public. While convinced that your brilliance and zeal would make you excel in your future endeavours, please be assured of the support of the state government as might be required.”

  • Ambode and the politics of BRF’s successor

    The release of the time-table for party primaries by the All Progressives Congress (APC) has increased the tempo of political activities in most of the states. Returning lawmakers, particularly those who never frequented their constituencies while in Abuja, were shocked at the number of people already jostling and lobbying for their positions. These days, you see some of these Abuja returnees being nice guys, giving out money and buying Keke Marwa, grinding machines, sewing machines, transformers for the constituencies that they abandoned while in Abuja. The flowing robes and sprawling gowns, the trademark of Abuja opulence and flamboyance, can no longer cover their ineffectiveness, failings and frailties. Now, it is pay-back time. The billboards, the posters, the stickers, the banners, the flyers which are the media of reaching out to the people, are back again.

    But beyond the glitz and glamour of the campaign are intrigues and the artifice of the game. Of particular interest to this writer, is what is going on in Lagos State where the most visible governorship aspirant, Akinwunmi Ambode competes with other aspirants on his trail. Ambode, a complete gentleman of consummate humility and a meticulous technocrat, was the Accountant-General of Lagos State before he resigned in 2012, and before his foray into politics. While he was in the service, he worked with Bola Tinubu in different capacities but all within the Ministry of Finance. It was in the course of these interactions that Tinubu, himself an accountant, got to know him as a very transparent, disciplined, hardworking and pertinacious professional. Ambode’s expertise in financial engineering and economic management endeared him to Tinubu who never hesitated to advise him to join politics immediately he resigned as the state Accountant-General under Fashola’s administration. Ambode’s closeness to Tinubu paid off when it was time to begin the search for BRF’s successor. It was not an easy selection. Ambode’s eventual choice was, however, made easy when it was agreed at a caucus meeting that the financial situation of Lagos State demanded for a forthright and perspicacious professional who can manage the debt profile of the state in a way that will justify the reasons for obtaining the loans.

    According to the Debt Management Office (DMO), Lagos State owes 33.8% of the country’s total sub-national external debts. The state reportedly owes $1.01 billion of the total states’ external debt of $3.01 billion. Components of this debt include $837.91 million from multilateral bodies and $82.5 million from bilateral sources. Displaying his understanding of the debt issue, Ambode at a political forum defended the state by enlightening the people that debt should not be analysed in isolation but considered in relation to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). He added that most of Lagos debt went into financing projects to increase its revenue-generating capability and ensure it remains credit worthy. His position was reinforced and supported by the DMO which stated that the debt was sustainable and within healthy limits within the context of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

    But if Ambode thought that his robust analysis of the state’s debt scenario would impress them at Alausa in a way that would make BRF to support his aspiration, he was wrong. BRF, the incumbent, has obviously committed himself to some other aspirant and it is evident from his body language that he is not ready to retreat.

    With this declarative stance, BRF seems to have drawn the battle line. Speculation in political circles is that his preferred candidate for the governor’s seat is Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, (KOH) the son of Olu of Afowowa Sogaade in Ewekoro Local Governement, Ogun State. Though Hamzat’s scribbling supporters have laboured strenuously to exploit the fluidity and fragility of the Yoruba settlements to justify their principal’s genealogical claim to Lagos, what they fail to understand is that despite the migratory nature of Yoruba settlers, every Yoruba family can still trace their genealogy to a particular Yoruba town or village. If Hamzat’s father therefore was able to trace his roots to Ewekoro and consequently became the Oba of Afowowa, it simply illustrates the fact that the genealogy of the family is rooted in Ewekoro, not Lagos. The dynamics of Yoruba migratory settlements is not a historical justification for automatic conferment of indigeneship status. Instead, it only attests to the concept of Omoluabi which makes the Yoruba to see themselves as one. It is, therefore, unfair that the accomodationist spirit of the Lagos people is now being used to deprive them of a strategic position that is rightfully theirs going by historical antecedents.

    Besides, for Hamzat’s father to be crowned an Oba in a village in Ogun State and the son to become governor of Lagos State is nothing but an act of ingratitude to those who provided shelter for the family in the course of their migration to Lagos. The fluidity of the Yoruba settlements should not be an avenue for political opportunism but rather, it should be seen as a symbol of cultural accommodation. This is just a relevant digression.

    The common excuse from the opposition is that Ambode was a bad choice, but the same Tinubu said to be sympathetic towards his bid also made the BRF choice and put his political credibility and integrity on the line by sticking to that choice in the heat of stiff opposition from aggrieved aspirants back then.

    Has BRF not proven to be a very good choice? In a very rare sequence of succession arrangement, the exit of Tinubu heralded the exposure of BRF. Today, BRF’s legacy located in massive construction of new roads, light rail, expansion and rehabilitation of existing ones, extensive landscaping and environmental beautification, agricultural and industrial revolution, radical health services, provision of security, expansive infrastructure development and aggressive service delivery have endeared him to both civil society groups and the political class.

    In appreciation of this revolutionary impact, the society had unconsciously formulated a new socio-political construct to acknowledge the BRF ideology as an ideal conceptual national platform for good governance. In a piece I did on BRF sometime, I wrote inter alia: “…. It is nonplus that a very apolitical BRF is now being celebrated as one of the governors whose performance has attracted both local and international plaudit. The standard he has set in governance despite operating at the state level, is as salient as what some country leaders would hawk as epoch-making accomplishments”

    So, what could have gone wrong that BRF, a product of Tinubu’s discovery, would not back the supposed choice of his mentor? Agreed that both of them (BRF and Hamzat) are free to exercise their right to democratic participation in order to realize their political aspiration, I am only concerned about the fact that collision between “father” and “son” could have been avoided.

    In trying to repudiate a statement credited to him in his interview with a national newspaper, Hamzat wrote: “I, Dr Kadri Obafemi Hamzat owe Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a lot of gratitude because GOD has been using him for me….. specifically, apart from GOD Almighty, Asiwaju has been contributing to my successes in government and outside. He was the one that brought me back into Nigeria from USA and all that I have achieved politically must be attributed to his support.”

    For a man who claimed that Tinubu did all that for him, would it not have been more dignifying, decorous, courteous and gratifying to respect and support Ambode, who’s said to be Tinubu’s candidate, rather than confronting his choice? By implication, Hamzat is not competing with Ambode but Tinubu. Assuming, but not conceding, that Tinubu’s candidate loses to Hamzat, will Hamzat and his sponsor take delight in celebrating their victory and leaving Tinubu to mourn his defeat? They cannot deny that they will not celebrate if they win because there is no sobriety in victory. But what will be the gain if the man who brought them to fame ends his political career in shame? A case of one biting the fingers that fed him!

    The story of Gbenga Ashafa will help in elucidating this point. Senator Gbenga Ashafa was employed into the Lagos State Civil Service as a director by Tinubu in 1999. From his position as a director in the Governor’s office, Tinubu moved Ashafa to the Ministry of Lands as the Executive Secretary and later he was made the Permanent Secretary of the same ministry. It was from there he forayed into politics and through Tinubu’s intervention became a senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

    Like Hamzat, Ashafa was also interested in the governorship. He consulted Tinubu on his ambition and the latter told him to keep working until the caucus decides who to adopt out of an army of aspirants that were lobbying him. Ashafa promised to collapse his group and support whoever was eventually favoured. As soon as signals pointed to Ambode, in deference to Tinubu, Ashafa collapsed his group and started working on his re-election as a senator representing Lagos East. Though some mischievous elements placed Ashafa’s billboards at strategic points in the state, those who are close to him knew it was all politics.

    Kowtowing and showing reverence to one’s benefactor is not stupidity but a sign of strong moral character and maturity. Why must a man be desperate to fulfill his ambition by betraying the one that gave him the inspiration for the ambition? Whatever resources and network those in power have today were made possible by the fact that Tinubu brought them into his administration without them being able to boast of any political structure. The world is full of people with ambitions and if we are all desperate to achieve our ambitions by throwing loyalty to the winds, the ethereal space will become a narrow-gate chaos. Over to you, pool scribblers!

  • Ambode ‘s foundation honours 11 young achievers in Lagos

    Ambode ‘s foundation honours 11 young achievers in Lagos

    An All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship aspirant in Lagos State, Akinwunmi Ambode, at the weekend, joined the La Roche Leadership Foundation to recognise and celebrate some exceptional youths in Lagos.

    The event, “The Chosen Youth”, held at the Astroturf 2000 in Ikoyi, recognised the efforts of 11 youths who have contributed to the development of their communities in the areas of youth & sports, tourism, social media, entertainment and fashion.

    In a statement, the aspirant said the selected young people had shown leadership qualities and innovation in their endeavours.

    He added that their innovations are the product of vibrant young minds who challenge the status quo and chart a course for themselves.

    Speaking at the event, Ambode, the founder of La Roche, said: “Today we recognise young people who have challenged the status quo and charted a course for themselves.

    “Today, we appreciate young men and women who have not let the circumstances in the country put them down but rather used it to motivate themselves.

    “La Roche salutes your courage. La Roche salutes your passion. La Roche salutes your success. La Roche extends a hand of partnership to you and together we can inspire others to leadership and innovation and improve lives in Nigeria.”

    Most of the chosen youths are social entrepreneurs, who are pursuing innovative solutions to social problems and making tremendous contributions to their communities.

    The selected youths were presented with plaques by La Roche foundation in recognition of their exceptional work.