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  • Lagos council tackles traffic congestion, rehabilitates feeder roads

    Lagos council tackles traffic congestion, rehabilitates feeder roads

    To reduce the incessant traffic congestion on the Abule Egba axis of the Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway, the Agbado/Oke-Odo Local Council Development Area of Lagos State has embarked on the rehabilitation of some feeder roads in the council area.

    The initiative, according to the Council Manager of Agbado/Oke-Odo LCDA, Mrs Mayowa Ikuforiji, became imperative following the hassles which traffic gridlock on the Lagos-Abeokuta expressway had caused in recent time.

    “As a responsible council development area, we have decided to alleviate the plight of motorists and commuters who have been subjected to long hours of delay in traffic on the ever busy Abule Egba axis of the Lagos-Abeokuta Highway, hence, we are rehabilitating feeder roads in the council area.

    “After the rehabilitation of Samuel Ajakaiye road, we shall move to other feeder roads, including Idowu Adeniji road, in order to reduce traffic gridlock to its barest minimum. We will ensure that we deploy part of our limited resources toward actualising this initiative which will no doubt go a long way to alleviate the suffering encountered daily on the highway.”

    A cross section of residents, who spoke with our correspondent, hailed the step taken by the council manager and her team for giving road rehabilitation premium attention since she took charge of the council administration.

  • Disquiet in Lagos community over gas pipeline project

    Disquiet in Lagos community over gas pipeline project

    The Escravos-Lagos gas pipeline expansion project is under threat as Igbooye community in Epe, a Lagos suburb, insists it be paid compensation, even as it demands that Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) be carried out. ADEBISI ONANUGA reports. 

    The Igbooye community in Epe, a Lagos suburb, is known for its peace and tranquillity which the residents relish. This state of affairs has been ageless as their forebears loathed strife. That was in the yesteryear.

    The peace and calmness that had been the features of the community got shattered few weeks back as the people of the ancient town took to the streets to protest against the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and Zakhem Construction Company Limited over their refusal to pay compensation for their lands which the two organisations encroached into in the second phase of Escravos-Lagos gas pipeline project.

    Residents of the community were also demanding that Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) be conducted on their land encroached upon by the gas pipeline as required by law for the safety of the environment.

    The people, who are majorly farmers, claimed to have lost about 10 kilometre stretch of their farmlands to the project, including other environmental consequences they may have to contend with as a direct consequence of the project.

    The protest was spearheaded by the community’s heads of the various ruling houses and families, including Alhaji Mikhail Kadiri, Otunba Abdulwasiu Musa-Adebamowo, Alhaji Waidi Lasisi from Erelu Ruling House, Alhaji Safiriyu Bakare from Osikadewa Ruling House and Apostle Matthew Odunlami from Shamba Ruling House, among others.

    On November 12, this year, the people made good their threat as they marched to the construction sites, forcing the workers to move their caterpillars, giant generators and welding machines out of Igbooye land to the neighbouring Ibonwon town.

    They defied the directive of the monarch of the town, the Orijeru of Igbooye land, Oba Michael Gbadebo Onakoya, who was alleged to have emboldened the NNPC and staff of the construction firm, Zakhem to carry on with their job.

    Alhaji Kadiri, who was at the head of the protest, told the construction workers that they would not be allowed to work until the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) meets the community’s demands.

    Kadiri alleged that the NNPC and the construction company reneged on payment of compensation to the community and the families whose lands were encroached into as a result of the gas pipeline project.

    He said the elders of the community had exchanged correspondence with the DPR, under whose supervision the NNPC operates as a subsidiary, on the issues but that the corporation has been economical with the truth.

    About five months ago, the Head of the Ewade Ruling House, Otunba Abdulwasiu Musa-Adebamowo had written the Director, DPR, Kofo Abayomi Street, Victoria Island to remind the department of an earlier letter dated March 3, this year, complaining over the refusal of the construction company, Zakhem Constructions, to pay compensation to the community.

    “It is therefore pertinent that this issue is attended to, particularly now that the laying of the gas pipeline is approaching our community which may be resisted,” he warned.

    In his earlier letter to the DPR, Otunba Musa-Adebamowo had complained that since after the September, 2012 meeting between the representatives of the NNPC led by its Community Relations/Liaison Officer on the project and elders of the community, nothing has been heard from the officer.

    “Although without the knowledge and consent of the elders and chiefs of the community, the EIA report on the project was disputed maliciously by the deposed Oba of Igbooye, M. G. Onakoya whose chieftaincy case is currently on appeal.

    “We therefore pray for your intervention as we are law-abiding citizens. The community may resist the laying of the gas pipeline if the necessary compensations are not paid appropriately,” he said.

    The letters were copied to Assistant Director, Gas, S.A. Babalola and Deputy Director, Gas Division.

    It was gathered that trouble in the community started in March 2012 when some elders of the community held meeting with representatives of the NNPC and the construction company to discuss the issue of compensation on the areas of land affected by the gas pipeline project before work would commence in the area.

    The community was alleged to have been represented at that meeting by the monarch and heads of ruling houses and at which promises of compensation were made. Aside from the name of the monarch and the Odofin, Anthony Oguntimehin, other names listed and alleged to have attended the March 2012 consultation meeting included those of Chief F.O. Adebambo; Chief F.A. Bakare; Bishop P. Odunlami; Chief Nurudeen Tomola; Hon. Afisu Amisu; Mr. Quadri Shuaib and Mr. Lekan Ajayi.

    However, more than a year after the meeting, the community was still waiting for the compensation which the company promised them.

    The monarch has, however, denied being part of the meeting, alleging forgery of his name and signature alongside others listed in the attendance sheet.

    It was gathered that when compensation was no longer forthcoming, some members of the community decided to visit the NNPC to find out the true position of things. There it was revealed to them that “compensation” had been paid to some people alleged to have claimed to be from the community. But neither does anybody knew how much was paid nor who collected the money.

    However, a chain of events, it was revealed, has led to the tensed situation and suspicions in the town.

    The Federal Ministry of Environment, acting on the strength of the compensation supposedly paid to the community, had written the chairman of Epe Local Government Area requesting for a 21-day “public display exercise on the EIA of the proposed construction of Escravos-Lagos pipeline Phase II” by the NNPC from January 14 to February 21, last year.

    The letter, dated January 7, 2013 and signed by Abbas O. Suleiman on behalf of the minister, requested the Chairman of the Epe Local Government Area to publicly display the EIA report in an easily accessible location between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily for stakeholders/public comments and to forward all reactions to the Permanent Secretary of the ministry on or before February 18, 2013.

    But at the close of the exercise, nobody showed up, neither did anybody pass any comment from the community on the EIA since they were not part of it.

    It was gathered that the Igbooye community denied the EIA document at a meeting held at the instance of the Chairman of Epe Local Government Area, Otunba Agbaje at the Oba Onakoya’s palace on March 11, last year as none of its members was aware of the purported exercise.

    The view that the purported EIA may be a ruse was further reinforced by a letter dispatched by the council chairman, Otunba Agbaje dated March 11, last year, to the Commissioner, Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, of its receipt of the purported EIA report.

    The letter, however, clarified the fact that “no team on EIA from Abuja ever visited the Oba of Igbooye land nor had any meeting with residents or representatives of the community at any point in time.”

    A similar letter dated same day and signed by the Higher Environment Health Officer of the Epe Local Government Area, Osunsanya, Adesola M., was also sent to the Federal Ministry of Environment in Abuja.

    The letter, which contained a six-point situation report on the disputed EIA stated, among others, that the Orijeru of Igbooye land, Oba Onakoya claimed he was at no time invited to any meeting, nor did he send any representative to the consultative forum on or after March 18, 2012 and that his name and signature were forged.

    It stated that “every other names/persons on the EIA report were faceless, unknown and fictitious as they are not residents or representatives of the community.

    It further stated that no member of the EIA team visited the monarch in respect of the project.

    It suggested that a fresh exercise of the EIA be conducted as it affects Igbooye community and that the authentic community members should be consulted appropriately to be in attendance.

    On April 25, last year, the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs forwarded the letter from the Chairman of Epe Local Government Area to the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Cabinet Office Alausa Secretariat.

    The letter, signed by the Permanent Secretary, L.A.D. Dabiri highlighted “certain anomalies bordering on communication gap between the Federal Ministry of Environment and the people of Epe as well as the displeasure of Oba Onakoya”.

    The letter urged the SSG “to play the complementary role of using her good offices to bring the development to the attention of the Federal Ministry of Environment, Abuja and having the EIA re-conducted in the concerned community as requested by the people of Igbooye land in Epe, Lagos State as well as report the case of forgery of signatures to the Minister for Environment.”

    About a month later, the SSG forwarded the letter, signed on his behalf by P.A. Dosunmu and attached documents from the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs to the Commissioner, Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources and requested him to “please look into the issue and thereafter brief his Excellency, the Governor, Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola accordingly”.

    But events in the town, took a new turn when the elders of the town allegedly approached the monarch and asked to know if indeed compensation had been paid as demanded. It was alleged that the monarch rather urged the elders to desist from doing anything that will stop the project.

    The monarch also denied a meeting supposedly held with the representatives of Federal Ministry of Environment led by Prof. Stephen Omoregbe.

    The monarch, in a petition to the Minister of Environment dated March 3, 2013, complained that those who purportedly represented the community “were not members of Igbooye community.

    “On close examination of the minutes of the meeting of the consultative forum dated March 18, 2012, and the names and signatories on the attendance list attached, it was glaring that all signatories on the attendance list were not members of Igbooye community. Also, the Kabiyesi’s name on the list was wrong and the signature forged.”

    The letter, signed by the monarch and Odofin/Community Secretary, A.A. Oguntimehin stated further “…no meeting of such was held at all with our Kabiyesi and any of the high chiefs of the community. We would therefore suggest that a real meeting be arranged so that our community would be assured that the Federal Government meant well for our community,” it stated.

    Attempts to speak with the monarch on the issue failed as he was said to have travelled out of town when reporters visited his palace at Igbooye. His wife, Olori Adenike said only the monarch could speak on the issue.

    However, the Project Manager of the NNPC on the gas pipeline expansion project, Mr. Bello reportedly met with elders and people of the town at the community town hall few days after the protest.

    Sources said Mr. Bello assured the community that they would be compensated appropriately.

    Otunba Musa-Adebamowo, who confirmed the town hall meeting, said the community was requested to forward a fresh letter detailing their demands to the DPR.

    The community was also requested to undertake a measurement of the distance covered by the gas pipeline project within the town and forward same to the DPR while steps would be taken to conduct a fresh Environmental Impact Assessment of the affected land.

    In addition, it was agreed that the companies involved in the project would initiate empowerment programmes for youths of the town, among others.

    But, Alhaji Kadiri vowed that the community would return to trenches if the corporation and the construction company failed to fulfil their promises on payment of compensation.

  • No corrupt judge in Lagos, says Fashola

    No corrupt judge in Lagos, says Fashola

    The number of judges in Lagos State has risen to 54 with the swearing-in of four new ones.Though the state parades the highest number of judges in the country, Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola is unhappy that only four out of seven scaled the hurdles of the National Judicial Council (NJC), reports ADEBISI ONANUGA.

    When Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Raji Fashola swore-in four new judges, he could not hide his anger that the National Judicial Commission (NJC) chose four of the seven recommended for the job.

    Their appointment has brought to 54 the number of High Court judges in the state – 39 women and 15 men.

    Governor Fashola wondered why the NJC did not approve the seven names submitted to it for consideration as judges.

    “We submitted seven names for consideration as judges and out of which only four were approved,” he said.

    He said states and not the Federal Government should determine the number of judges needed in their states, as the responsibility of providing the facilities needed by the judges lies with the state.

    The inauguration held at the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium, Alausa Secretariat, Ikeja.

    The new judges include Justice Olamide Akinkugbe, who, until her appointment, was the Chief Registrar of the High Court. Others are Justice Serifat Sonaike, Justice Abisoye  Bashua and  Justice Abdulfattah Lawal.

    Fashola expressed conviction that there is no corrupt judge in the state judiciary. He added that in the last 16 years, ‘’issues of corruption in the Lagos judiciary are no longer there’’.

    The governor challenged the new judges to take the lead in promoting law and order to build a better judiciary not just in the state, but in the country. ”You have chosen a very sensitive role to perform and hence the responsibility of performing this role without been biased lies on you,” he said.

    He admonished the judges to be incorruptible and courageous, urging them not to be biased and to, at all times, ensure that they balance their social and personal lives  with their official duties.

    ”We expect superhuman conduct from you judges. You must be above suspicion and should not be biased. Judges should be incorruptible and courageous,” he said, adding: “You need to be knowledgeable and be familiar with business development all over the world in order to ensure justice.”

    He said the state has provided enabling environment and infrastructure for judges to perform and that this, according to him, include regular power supply to all the courts; a combined High and Magistrate Courts at Ikorodu; the new courts at Epe and  Badagry and a new Magistrate Court at Ikeja, among others.

    The state Chief Judge, Justice Oluwafunmilayo Atilade, said the ceremony was the climax of an appointment process which, according to her, the judges were found to be qualified.

    She emphasised that their appointments were on merit, urging them to be disciplined, focused, incorruptible, diligent and committed to their duties.

    She urged them to live up to their callings by being faithful and truthful to inspire hope and confidence in the judiciary.

    Earlier, the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Ade Ipaye, described the judiciary as an indispensable arm of the government without which the society becomes ungovernable.

    He said the vacancies in the state judiciary had necessitated the search and intensive screening of  qualified candidates to fill the positions, adding that it culminated into the recommendation of the best to the NJC which screened and recommended four of them to the governor for appointment.

    The Commissioner noted that such appointments were awaited with eager expectation by both the legal professionals and the  public because of the title and distinction attached to the office, and more importantly, the role judges play in the society.

    “In accordance with powers conferred by the Constitution, a Judge of the High Court of Lagos State shall have in court the unlimited jurisdiction prescribed in Section 272 of the Constitution to hear and determine both civil proceedings and any matter of liability in respect of an offence committed by a person,” Ipaye said.

    He added that judges’ judicial powers are very wide and they extend to all matters between persons, or between governments or between the authority and any person in Nigeria, and to all actions and proceedings relating thereto.

    “Judicial powers also reach further to criminal jurisdiction and the imposition of appropriate penalties, extending notwithstanding anything to the contrary in the Constitution, to all inherent powers and sanctions of a court of Law,” Ipaye said.

    The Attorney-General while presenting the new judges to the governor confirmed that conditions precedent to the ceremony were fulfilled.

    Responding on behalf of his colleagues, Justice  Akinkugbe said they accepted the appointment with the full realisation of the responsibility imposed on them. She assured that they would not fail in their duties to the state and the judiciary.

    While thanking Governor Fashola, the Chief Judge and the judiciary for having faith and confidence in them, she promised that they would all serve with dignity.

    Justice Akinkugbe, 52, is a 1983 History graduate of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) and the University of Warwick, Coventry, England, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Law in 1986.

    She was in private practice between 1988 and 1993 before joining Olumide Sofowora’s Chambers and worked with the law firm till 1995. In same year, she joined the Lagos State Judiciary as Magistrate Grade 2 and later rose through the ranks before her appointment as the Chief Registrar last year. She was Chief Magistrate in-charge of administration in Yaba, Ikorodu and Igbosere Magisterial Districts and Coroner for the Lagos Island Coronial District. She is an Associate Member of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, United Kingdom (UK).

    Justice Sonaike is a 1992 LL.B.  graduate of Ogun State University (now Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Ago-Iwoye and a 2006 Masters in Law holder of the Lagos State University (LASU).

    She started her legal practice as a Youth Corps member with the Borno State Ministry of Justice, Maiduguri, before her redeployment to Oyo State Ministry of Justice, Ibadan as a Pupil State Counsel.

    On completion of her Youth Service, she joined Olakunle Morohundiya Chambers and Chief Kunle Oyewo before moving to the magistracy in 1999.

    Justice Sonaike rose through the ranks to become Chief Magistrate, a position she held until her appointment as a judge.

    She was the Coroner Magistrate for Epe Magisterial District, member, Certified Institute of Shipping and the Commonwealth Magistrates and Judges Association.

    Justice Bashua, son of Alhaji Mikhail Bashua (SAN), obtained an LL.B. from the Lagos State University (LASU) in 1998. He had earlier obtained a Bachelor of Arts in History from same university in 1985. He was called to bar in 2000 and started his legal career the same year. He was in his father’s Chambers until his new appointment.

    Justice Lawal graduated, topping his class as the “Best Student” of the Faculty of Law, in 1995 from the University of Maiduguri.

    He had his Youth Service at the Nigerian Law Publications Ltd, the law reports company of the late Chief Gani Fawehinmi (SAN). He was later moved to the Chambers.

    Justice Lawal worked with the firm of Dr. G. Elias (SAN) between 2001 and 2003 when he joined the law firm of Aare Afe Babalola in 2006. He later became a partner and the Deputy Head of the Lagos Office of the Chamber in 2009.

    Justice Lawal was the Secretary, Professional Ethics and Disciplinary Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Ikeja Branch, from 2010 to date, member, Professional Ethics Committee of the International Bar Association (IBA) as well as Ethics Committee of the San Fernando Valley Bar of the State of Carlifornia, United States (US).

     

     

  • Experts assess Lagos Private and Property law

    Private and Property Law experts have converged on Lagos to deliberate on the Mortgage and Property Law of Lagos State 2010 to improve government policies on housing for the citizens.

    They  include creditors, investors, estate developers, mortgage institutions and captains of industries, bankers, intellectuals, the public.

    At a two-day workshop organised by Department of Private and Property Law, Faculty of Law, University of Lagos (UNILAG), the stakeholders also analysed the Lagos Conveyance Law of 1881 to determine whether issues of “unquestionable bargains” were  addressed by the Mortgage and Property Law of Lagos State 2010.

    A former Dean, Faculty of Law UNILAG, Prof Oluwole Smith (SAN), said while the Mortgage and Property Law 2010 had made it easier for a mortgagor to transact business without paying heavy charges, the Conveyance Law of 1881, on the other hand,  allows properties and mortgage agreement to be done in the ways the parties deemed fit.

    He said what obtained before now was that bankers and mortgage institutions had a standard form contract agreements which   mortgagors were expected to sign.

    Smith said  mortgage institutions can no longer  treat mortgagors with levity, because of the establishment of  mortgage board which now regulates the affairs of the parties adding, “ there is a mortgage board which will formulate and implement policies on behalf of government. The  mortgage board would also guide government on the implementation of relevant mortgage laws.’’’

    Prior to the enactment of the law, the don pointed out that there have been  cases of imbalance in the contextual relations of the parties in mortgaging activities to the extent that the circumstances of weaker parties, illiterates and unwary are not taking care of saying that they had “situations of unquestionable bargains in mortgage transactions” so much so that at the end of the day, it became imperative for legislature to intervene.

    He said the  features of the state’s mortgage law have been fine tuned to meet the demands of  modern time adding that one of the them has to do “with the ability of the mortgagor to be able to finance mortgage agreement”.                                                                                                                                      He said the law also empowered the mortgage board  to negotiate the cost of mortgages and obtain rebate  for those who cannot afford to pay the actual mortgage rate.

    Smith said the department, known for taking the lead  in the assessment and  analysis of laws relating to private and property law in the country, had organised  various workshops on the Land Use Act.

    “So, we take it upon ourselves as a department, that this obligation to examine property law legislation, give it interpretation, and enlighten stake holders about its provisions as well as the state ofits implementation.

    So that has always been the objective and it is the same objective that prompted this workshop,” he said.

    Head of department, Dr Babtunde Oni, said aside  teaching property laws, the department was concerned about issues emanating from property and mortgage issues .

    “Aside  from teaching as a department, we look at those laws to determine  what are the challenges and benefit we derive from that a particular law and proffer solutions as applicable,” he said.

  • Photo: Firemen putting off fire in Lagos

    Photo: Firemen putting off fire in Lagos

    Men of Lagos state fire service putting the buring truck at Ikeja along Agege motor road, Lagos on Sunday
    Men of Lagos state fire service putting the burning truck at Ikeja along Agege motor road, Lagos on Sunday
  • Lagos out as Milo Basketball Championship reaches semifinal

    Lagos out as Milo Basketball Championship reaches semifinal

    The host – Lagos State has been booted out of the ongoing 17th Milo Secondary School Basketball Championship after the team failed to win any match with the stage set for the semi-final matches of the boys’ event.

    Despite the huge support the Lagos team got from the fans at the Indoor Hall of the National Stadium, the team drawn in group A alongside Ebonyi and Adamawa fell to the visitors in the games.

    In the first group clash against Ebonyi, the Lagos side failed to capitalise on home advantage as they succumbed to the visitor in the extra time to concede the defeat to Ebonyi at 38-40.

    Despite the narrow loss to Ebonyi, many have thought the team would bounce back against Adamawa, but they were shadow of themselves as they were thrashed 25-33 by the Northern team.

    Already sure of playing in the semi-final round, Adamawa’s captain, Dickson Ndata said he looks forward to guiding the team to victory against Ebonyi State in order to emerge as top team in Group A.

    “Winning this match is crucial because it decides whether or not we get to the semifinals. Ebonyi players are good too but I believe with team work, we can win the game. Also, I can say that from the attitude of my teammates, they are set to win so that we don’t end up like our female team,” Ndata said.

    A disappointed Patience Payesa of Adamawa female team described their loss to Ondo as very unfortunate after they were beaten 15-37 by the Sunshine girls.

    An optimist Payesa is not ready to give up as she believes they can still finish among the top teams of the competition.

    Meanwhile, Okhidemeh Leonard the captain of the ill-fated Edo side who lost in their first match said their match is a must win in order to get a chance to have a tie with other teams in the group and proceed to the semifinals.

    “Since we lost our first match, we need a win in our match against Team Delta today so that we can get a tie with other teams in our group. When that happens, points will be used to decide the winners and qualifiers for the semifinals,” Okhidemeh said.

  • Lagos APC guber primaries commence

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) primaries to elect the Lagos State governorship candidate for the 2015 election  has commenced at the Onikan Stadium.

    As early as 9am delegates and other officials  started arriving the venue and were screened by security agents.

    Delegates sat in their various local government areas allocated seats. Outside the stadium, banners of some of the aspirants are strategically placed.
    The delegates will be accredited based on 20 local governments.
    Intermittently, the shouts of APC blares from the microphone.
    The aspirants started arriving the venue by 12noon.
    Accreditation will commence soon.
  • Who emerges as Lagos APC governorship candidate?

    Who emerges as Lagos APC governorship candidate?

    Delegates will elect the Lagos State All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate today at the primaries. Eleven aspirants are in the race. Who wins the ticket? Group Political Editor EMMANUEL OLADESU examines the epic succession battle.

    Today is a special day in the life of the Lagos State All Progressives Congress (APC). Over 6,000 delegates from 20 local governments and 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) will elect its governorship candidate at the primaries. They comprise over 4,000 elected delegates and 2,000 statutory delegates, including ward, local government and state officers of the party, and appointees.The flag bearer will face the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in next year’s elections. The winner will succeed Governor Babatunde Fashola, who will bow out from office after completing his two terms of eight years.

    The succession battle is gaining momentum in the economic hub and commercial capital of Nigeria. It has provoked interest beyond the political parties. Even, other states are monitoring unfolding events. APC governorship aspirants are intensifying their consultations and mobilisation. The outcome of the House of Assembly primaries held on Tuesday may predict the result of the primaries.

    No doubt,  contenders are locked in a fierce battle. There are allegations of gang-ups by some aspirants against a particular aspirant.  Strategic defections by impatient politicians seeking the golden fleece outside their political family are being contemplated. Reality has dawn on some paper-weight aspirants that they cannot go far.  Yesterday, some of them canvassed the review of procedures for the primaries. They said that direct primaries are better than indirect primaries.

    Lagos APC aspirants parade intimidating credentials. But, not all of them are blessed with solid structures. No fewer than 11 chieftains are vying for the governorship. The aspirants  include Senator Ganiyu Solomon, House of Assembly Speaker Hon. Yemi Ikuforiji, Mrs. Tokunbo Agbesanwa, the only woman in the race, former Health Commissioner Dr. Tola kasali, and former Accountant-General and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance, Mr. Akinwumi Ambode.

    Others are Commissioner for Works Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, former Health Commissioner Dr. Leke Pitan, former Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice Supo Shasore (SAN), Tokunbo Wahab, and Mr. Tayo Ayinde. Many of them are disciples and beneficiaries of Tinubu’s political philanthropy.

     

    Division in governor camp

    Many issues will shape the shadow poll. The first is the incumbency factor. In 2007, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, the former governor, was in charge. Today, Fashola is the governor, but he is not in control of the political machinery. Sources said that Fashola is rooting for Shasore, his friend and learned colleague. But, it is an uphill task. For seven and half years, the governor has not acquired political skills like his predecessor, although he is the controller of financial resources. Since the shadow poll is the internal affair of the ruling party, it may be difficult for the governor to achieve a breakthrough in his agenda to install a successor. Despite being in the saddle for two terms, he is not perceived as the party leader by the majority of party members. Thus, the power of incumbency may crumble at the primaries.

    A source said that the governor’s camp is thinking beyond the primaries. Reminiscent of the 2011 episode, the relics of the Labour Party (LP) are being exhumed. “If Shasore fails to get the APC ticket, the governor will fight. The ‘Plan B’, as it is being called, is to arrange for him to contest on the platform of the Labour Party (LP).” added the source.

    The governor’s camp is also divided, ahead of the primaries. Few months ago, the camp was rooting for Hamzat, a star commissioner and member of the kitchen cabinet. The projection of Shasore by the camp has led to a division, with ardent supporters of Hamzat protesting that he has been dumped by the chief executive.

     

    LCDA argument

    Two days ago, eight out of 11 aspirants protested against the procedure for the primaries. In their view, delegates to the primaries cannot be based on the 57 councils, 37 of which have not been listed in the constitution, because the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), a federal body that does not recognise the 37 LCDAs, will conduct the governorship polls. The additional councils are being sacrificed on the altar of the bitter struggle for power.

    Lagosians were taken aback when aspirants who were at the forefront of the creation of the additional 37 councils inadvertently  re-echoed the Federal Government’s sentiment that they have not been listed in the constitution. The additional councils are legal entities validly created by the House of Assembly. The aspirants have in the past defended the creation of the additional councils, based on the legitimate aspiration of Lagosians for deeper grassroots governance and development. According to observers, the aspirants have forgotten that the governor has funded the councils for seven and half years through the State/Local Government Joint Accounts Committee. Their chairmen were inaugurated by the governor.

    Reflecting on the rejection of the 57 council structure, a party elder said: “Politics is funny. These people (aspirants) have fought for the creation of the councils. They have also defended their creation when the Federal Government decided not to recognise them. But, they are now saying that delegates cannot come from the councils. It is strange.”

    Party insiders disclosed that plans are underway to discredit today’s primaries, if the party leadership insists on the distribution of delegates across 57 councils. A source said that the protest against the procedure for the shadow poll is the prelude to a showdown.

    To an extent, indigeneship may be a factor in the contest. When the Olowo-Eko of Lagos said that “we will not allow the son of the Ewekoro monarch to rule us in Lagos,” the message was internalised by party chieftains and prospective delegates. However, the party has not disqualified any aspirant, based on this factor. The Publicity Secretary, Joe Igbokwe, said that the APC will abide by the 1999 Constitutions, which guarantees a level-playing field for contestants.

     

    Zoning

    According to the APC leadership, zoning is a factor. In fact, the party has earlier announced that it has zoned the slot to Lagos East Senatorial District. However, politics are smart. Indeed, aspirants not initially favoured by the zoning have traced their ancestral roots to the district. For example, Solomon has claimed that his illustrious father and strongman of Mushin, Lagos West politics, the late Chief Rafiu Solomon, left Ipakodo, Ikorodu Division, for Mushin in 1949. Also, Hamzat has claimed that he is a descendant ofthe  Ajiborisa family of Epe. Last week, Shasore also said that he has deep seated historical links with the East District. Therefore, zoning is a weak factor.

     

    Religion

    In Lagos, there is the clamour by Christians for a “Christian governor.” But, religion is a weak factor. There are Christians and Muslims in the race. The Christians are Ambode, Shasore, and Pitan. The Muslims are Ikuforiji, Hamzat, Kasali, and Wahab. In fact, many have described religion as a non-issue in Lagos politics. An aspirant, Shasore said stakeholders should avoid the danger of erecting religious platforms for politicking in a polity still battling with the ethnic divide. Another chieftain, Hon. Lateef Raji, a House of Representatives aspirant in Osodi/Isolo Constituency, said Lagos cannot afford religious tension. He stressed: “ Christians and Muslims in Lagos State have co-existed harmoniously without friction. We have had more Muslims governors than Christian governors, but it is mere coincidence. In the Southwest, religion has never shaped our politics. Another chieftain, Alhaji Kola Oseni, warned against setting a dangerous precedence. “Merit should be the watchword, not religion,” he said.

     

    Mystery of Lagos politics

    The lessons of Lagos politics are also  instructive. But, aspirants often refuse to learn from history. The political field is slippery. Historically, aspirants who were not in the reckoning have always become the candidates. Eyes were not on Tinubu in 1998/99 and Fashola in 2007. But, they were thrown up by some circumstances and they won the governorship polls. In 1999, Tinubu was warming up for the Senate, until the Afenifere leaders of Ijebu origin advised him to signify interest in the governorship. The only dissenting voice was Dawodu, who, had favoured Funso Williams for the seat.

    In 2007, the defunct Action Congress (AC) had 14 aspirants. They included Jimi Agbaje, Abiodun Ogunleye, Solomon, Oyinlomo Danmole, Tola Kasali, Tokunbo Afikuyomi, and Femi Pedro. Others are Tunde Fanimokun, Bayo Ajisebutu, Kaoli Olusanya, Omotilewa Aro-Lambo, Remi Adikwu-Bakare, and Fashola, the dark horse.  At the primaries, Fashola, the former Chief of Staff secured the ticket.

     

    Consensus and primaries

    Times are changing. Miffed by the culture of imposition, some forces have pressed vigorously for internal democracy. Ironically, the beneficiaries of imposition have turned around to discredit the process that threw them up as party candidates, elected representatives and political appointees.

    The APC is set for primaries today. But, some aspirants are still kicking against its elements. The party settled for primaries, following the stiff opposition to consensus. Two weeks ago, the aspirants attended a crucial meeting in Ikeja to brainstorm on consensus candidacy. A source said that it was deadlock.

    How to conduct a successful primaries is the challenge. Igbokwe said it is possible, recalling that the House of Assembly primaries were largely successful across the constituencies.

     

    Aspirants

    Solomon

    The politician from Mushin will test his popularity today. His campaign structure, ‘Ideal Club’, is not relenting. From 1998 to date, Solomon has been relevant. He has served as the Chairman of Mushin Local Government Area and a member of the House of Representatives. In 2007, he became a senator. He was re-elected in 2011.  Solomon is the first aspirant to declare his ambition. Solomon is also the first contender to set up his campaign office at Ikeja. The event was witnessed by his supporters. He has been canvassing for democratic primaries. Among the party leaders backing him is Alhaji Kola Oseni.

     

    Pitan

    The successful medical doctor from Agbowa, Epe Division, is perceived as the candidate of the Mandate Group. A prominent member of this group is the former Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Muiz Banire, a beneficiary of imposition-turned anti-imposition crusader. In post-Fashola era, the group wants to bounce back as an influential power bloc in the Centre of Excellence. Pitan served as Commissioner for Health and Education for eight years in Tinubu Administration. In recent times, he has set up a medical mission. Any where he goes, he is accompanied by health workers who screen people for ailments. Many believe that he is fit to rule the state. Few weeks ago, his supporters started the agitation for primaries. He is intelligent and hardworking. Last week, his campaign office said that he has been endorsed by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN). The body has dismissed the media report as a tissue of lies.

     

    Ikuforiji

    Ikuforiji is from Epe. He is a loyal politician. He became a member of the House of Assembly in 2003. He was re-elected in 2007 and 2011. He is the longest serving Speaker of the House. The Speaker enjoys the support of legislators as the head of the legislative arm. Under his leadership, the House has been stable. Ikuforiji has expanded the House of Assembly complex. He has had the privilege of representing two constituencies-Epe and Ikeja, which are in two separate senatorial districts in the House of Assembly.

     

    Ambode

    Ambode is a technocrat from Epe. Three months ago, he set up his campaign office at Gbagada, Lagos East.  Today may mark the beginning of his journey to the State House. At his prime, he showed the prospect of a promising person. At 21, Ambode obtained a degree in Accounting from the University of Lagos, Akoka. At 24, he earned a Masters Degree and qualified as a chartered accountant. He has worked in many councils as a treasurer before he was transferred to the state civil service. He was the Auditor-General for Local Government. In 2012, the Fullbright scholar retired voluntary as the Accountant-General and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance, at the age of 49 years. He was the first Permanent Secretary to have done so in the history of Lagos Civil Service. When the Federal Government withheld allocations to Lagos councils, he designed the blueprint for the financial survival of the councils. His colleagues in the civil service describe him as a man of character, capability and competence.

    Ambode’s head is full of figures. He is a financial strategist. His partisan moves in recent times suggest that he is learning at the feet of experienced leaders. No fewer than 60 traditional rulers from the five divisions of Epe, Ikorodu, Ikeja, Badagry and Lagos witnessed his declaration ceremony at Onikan Stadium, Onikan. The crowd was huge. brooms filled the air. Also present were Christian and Muslim clerics, wives of the Oba of Lagos, Lagos white cap chiefs, top party leaders, members of the National Assembly, party officers from ward, local government and state levels. At the ceremony, he was endorsed by ‘Conference 57’, which comprise of former local government chairmen. After the declaration, he embarked on the tour of the local governments to market himself to stakeholders. When he visited Lagos East AOC elders at Ibeju-Lekki, the elders were unanimous that he is a bumble and pleasant person bubbling with ideas.

    At Onikan Stadium, where he declared his ambition, he promised to build on the foundation laid by Fashola and 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 representatives of the Muslim Community was led by Imam Olubodun Gbajabiamila, who stood for the Chief Imam of Lagos, Imam Garuba Akinola. 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.”

    The Chairman of the  ‘Conference 57’,Hakeem Oris, who reiterated the support of the 57 council chairmen for his ambition, 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.”

    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 blue print 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 challenges and professionals will be carried along by his administration.

    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 Peopled 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.”

    APC chieftain Asipa Kaoli 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 percent of votes from Ikorodu.”

     

    Hamzat

    The Commissioner for Works is the son of the party leader, Oba Olatunji Hamzat, the Olu of Awofora-Sogaade, Ogun State. His father was a legislator and commissioner in the Second Republic. His mother is from Lagos State. Hamzat holds a doctorate degree in Agricultural Engineering. Between 2005 and 2007, he was the Commissioner for Science and technology.

     

    Kasali

    Kasali is the former Rural Development and Heath commissioner. He was the Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki Council. He was a member of the SDP in the Third Republic. When Sarunmi was about to be disqualified, he asked Kasali to obtain the governorship form. But, he declined, saying that the time was not ripe. In 2007, he vied for the position. But, Fashola emerged as the candidate. He later served as Commissioner for Special Duties. He is not a threat to any aspirant. For him, it is not a do-or-die affair.

     

    Shasore

    Shasore is a legal luminary and a member of the Body of Benchers. He was succeeded as the Justice Commissioner by Ade Ipaye in 2011. Shasore is a close friend of Fashola. He was a delegate to the national Conference. He is an astute administrator. But, he is not perceived as a politician.

     

    Ayinde

    Ayinde was Tinubu’s chief security detail. He is a rich man. But, he joined the race very late.

     

    Agbesanwa

    She is the only woman in the race. Agbesanwa hails from Epe. As a governorship aspirant, she will use her participation in the primaries to bargain for appointments after the elections.

  • ‘Accord Party aims to take over Lagos’

    ‘Accord Party aims to take over Lagos’

    The chairman of the Accord Party in Lagos State, Gbenga Olatunde-Kool,  has lofty dreams about the chances of the party in next year’s general elections. In this interview with deputy Political Editor RAYMOND MORDI, he talks about the party’s strategy to capture the state and the future of small parties in Nigeria.  

    It’s about three months to the general elections and we’ve not heard much from the Accord Party in Lagos. What’s going on?

    Yes, the Accord Party happens to be a grassroots party; we have been working within the grassroots because we believe that the grassroots people are the majority in the political scenario. That’s why the party has taken time to put its structures at that level, like having the chairmen and the excos. We have 57 local councils and LCDAs in Lagos and we have structures in virtually all of them. That’s what we’ve been doing and we are not so loud because money has a part to play in politics. I’m sure with time all the noise you are expecting would come in place before the elections.

    The APC has been tagged as a progressive party, while the PDP is usually identified as a conservative party in the media. Where do we place the Accord Party?

    The Accord Party is the caretaker of the poor masses because we are out to handle the welfare of the masses. It is as if, in governance these days, we only see the elites; the poor masses are not involved. An example, for instance, though the infrastructure in Lagos has not been put in place, the elite are thinking of building an Atlantic City. Go to some local governments, such as Igbogbo/Bayeku Local Government in Ikorodu, for instance, you will discover that the roads there are terrible. It’s as if we don’t have a government in place; and ironically this is where majority of the people who voted for the ruling party are staying. Obviously, it’s so painful. You will hear people complaining about the state of roads in places like Ikorodu on a phone-in programme in Yoruba, on Eko FM. The chairmen of local governments have been in place for long. But, they are practically doing nothing. The state government is there, but it has never done anything to improve the state of roads in places where the masses live. What do you expect? When the roads are bad, commuter buses inflate their fares. In essence, the APC, which is supposed to be progressive, has not been living up to its name. You see, if you want to take care of the masses, you must go to the grassroots. It’s not a question of going to Ikoyi and make sure that their roads are in good shape. How many people live in Ikoyi? All these big buildings you see in Ikoyi, you just see about two/three people coming out of it. But, you get to all this local areas where the masses are, you will discover that within a bungalow of five rooms alone, you can get about 50 people coming out of it; if not more. So, my party, the Accord Party, stands for the masses. We know where the shoe pinches them and we are ready to make sure that everything is done the right way.

    What are the chances of the Accord Party in the forthcoming governorship in Lagos?

    We are yet to unfold our governorship aspirants in Lagos because we want to take our time, just like any other party. It is when we get to that stage that people will know that we seriously mean business. Most of us in the party are highly religious and have soft minds.

    So, how are you going to perform at the election?

    No doubt, we’re coming tops in the election because we have our machinery in place and everything is working out for us.

    How are you going to win the election, if your aspirants are not known at this stage?

    We have a lot of aspirants waiting in the wings. We know the people have a choice, so we are waiting to see the way things would unfold in other parties. In Accord Party, there is no godfatherism and no nepotism; we go all-out and let people make their choice.

    Small parties like yours have been accused of being an appendage of the PDP. What’s your reaction to this?

    We can never be an appendage; that’s a misinformation. Accord Party stands on its own. It strongly believes that the time has come for the emergence of a new leadership that can prepare Lagos and Lagosians for the new millennium. This is the time to focus on the restoration of the dignity of Lagosians, which has never been there. The elites are being looked upon, to the detriment of the poor masses. Most times, you’ll find that if there is any offence committed by any of these poor masses, like the danfo driver or whatever, the only thing you’ll hear is meet me in court. Can they afford to pay the bills in court? The poor cannot afford it. So, in the process, someone who is looking for his daily bread is punished unjustly. What I’m saying is that the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has become a money-making institution for government. It is like that outfit is even compelling people to steal or resort to armed robbery because they tell people to go and pay N10,000 or N20,000, when their income in a day is not more than N500 or N1,000.

    What positions is your party going to field candidates in next year’s general elections?                

    The Accord Party is still a young party; I hope you know that. We are not interested in the presidential election yet. But, aside from that, we are going to field candidates for all positions. We are interested in the governorship, the Senate, the House of Representatives, the House of Assembly and counselors too.

    How do you rate the preparations towards next year’s elections?

    As it is, we are ready, because we’ve never stopped working. Our own target is to take over Lagos State. The Accord Party is set to take over control of Lagos State. That’s my main aim and objective.

    We mean the preparations on the part of INEC. Are you satisfied with what INEC is doing?

    Of course, I’m satisfied with what INEC is doing so far. We can’t crucify INEC for doing what it is doing right now. But, if there is a kind of digression, definitely we will shout.

    What of the issue of the distribution of permanent voters’ cards, people have been complaining…

    INEC has not done well in that regard. Personally, I registered and voted in 2011, but they names were missing from the registered released this time around. They told me to go and register afresh. In the process, they mis-spelt my name,

    What is the future of small parties in Nigeria?

    Accord Party is the alternative to all the problems. You see, people have tasted the PDP and the APC and now they are tired of the two major parties. If you check, you will discover that the two parties are populated by the same people, who keep moving from one party to the other. I wonder why they are recycling themselves because of power. So, we are coming in to take control.

    There is unemployment in the land and there is hunger, yet people still vote on the basis of sentiments. What are you doing to convert this to an electoral asset?

    It is going to be different this time around. It is not the parties that people would vote for, but those people participating. The names of people participating are what matters to the electorates; not the parties.

  • Lagos 2015: Ope gets massive endorsement

    The people of Alimosho, Apapa, Ikorodu, Badagry and Eti-Osa local councils of Lagos State have endorsed the bid of Hon. Lanre Ope to become the next governor of the state, on the platform of All Progressives Congress (APC). This is coming on the heels of the ongoing state wide consultative tour of all local governments in the state by the aspirant.

    The tour is part of Ope’s engagement with stakeholders to solicit for their support for his aspiration. The aspirant’s efforts appear to be yielding positive results. Indications from various local councils suggest that the representatives of people have endorsed Ope’s bid to govern the state. The consensus is that “Ope is the only candidate with the right experience in both public and private sector that can sustain the drive to build Lagos State of our dream.”

    Hon. Ope’s political ascendancy and achievements preceded him. A successful private sector-driven reformer, he revolutionised security in the banking sector through the introduction of revolving security doors. The initiative, which has now become the norm in the industry, has mitigated armed attacks.  Ope is also a reputable real estate investor with over 400 housing units to his credit.

    He is also an accomplished public service innovationist with an impeccable track record. It is on record that he demonstrated strong leadership skills in the development and implementation of procurement and distribution strategies for fertilizers in Nigeria, as the Secretary of the Task Force on Fertilizer Distribution.

    As a member of the Lagos State Assembly, his vision of food security for Lagos State earned him the nickname ‘food security’ and he moved the motions that led to establishing the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) and the passage of the Child Rights Bill.

    In demonstration of his principled stand in the face of tyranny, Hon. Ope after due consultation with elders in his constituency, traditional rulers and seasoned politicians resigned from 1994 National Constitutional Conference. This move was hailed as a very principled position, as the issues he raised were real.

    According to representatives of Christian Coalition, “Hon. Lanre Ope is a Christian candidate with pedigree, a committed member of Mountain of Fire Ministries with over 20 years membership. We are however more interested in a Lagos State where everybody will have access to quality lifestyle, uniform development, security and highly improved infrastructure without prejudice to religious inclination.”

    The Christian Coalition also affirmed that they have the mandate of leadership of other Pentecostal and Orthodox Christian organisations to support Ope’s governorship aspiration without prejudice to those of other aspirants vying for the same position.

    Some of the party stalwarts at the various venue of the consultation were also unanimous in their view that the APC requires a candidate with a good dose of public and private sector experience, to present a formidable candidate with an impeccable track record in both public and private service as its candidate at the forthcoming election. This would help the party to consolidate on the achievement of the current administration.