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  • What next?

    What next?

    • President Tinubu must point the way forward on Nigeria Air

    Nigerians who have been anxious to know the position of the Bola Tinubu administration on the country’s airline, Nigeria Air, may have to wait a little longer. But then, the ‘snippets’ given by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, tend toward reviewing the terms of the agreement signed with the airline’s private investors, Ethiopian Airline.

     Keyamo, who gave this hint while responding to questions on the status of the airline at the post-Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting at the State House, Abuja, said the agreement was skewed in favour of the investors, to the detriment of Nigeria. Hence, it had to be reworked and he had already made his observations known to the president who has the final say on the matter.  

    “I have deliberately not granted a full press interview, I have heard all kinds of things going on, all kinds of brickbats in the social media, but I cannot preempt my President. I cannot. All the documents, all the reports, everything, we have forwarded to Mr. President, the issues we’ve met on the ground”, Keyamo said.

    Nigeria Air was supposed to be Nigeria’s flag bearer. Its name and logo were unveiled at the Farnborough Air Show in the United Kingdom in July 2018. Not a few wondered why the unveiling had to be done in a foreign land. That it was billed to begin operations on May 26, 2023, three days to the exit of the Buhari administration, was another puzzle. 

     And, when, on the D-Day the airline was eventually launched, after several postponements, it turned out to be a bundle of embarrassment. But President Buhari launched the controversial Nigeria Air in equally controversial circumstances. Even though the Ministry of Aviation claimed the airline was only unveiled and not launched, we knew this was mere semantics. How many times would it be unveiled after the Fanborough unveiling? Anyway, the launching, or unveiling, was the highpoint of the shenanigans that had dogged the airline.

    In the first place, Nigeria Air had no aircraft of its own. It therefore had to get Ethiopian Airline to paint one of its aircraft in Nigeria’s logo, to make it look like an authentic Nigeria Air aircraft. Many Nigerians saw through the deception.

    Moreover, as at the time it was launched, the airline had also failed to secure Air Operating Certificate (AOC) from the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). To crown it all, the launching was done in spite of a court order that it be put on hold, pending the determination of the substantive suit on the project.

    After failing to fly despite the so-called unveiling, Ethiopian Airline gave a new take-off date of October, with eight aircraft and 12 wet-leased aircraft from Boeing.

    Read Also: MC Oluomo secures second term as Lagos NURTW chair

    Given the circumstances of its conception and ‘still-birth’, it would have been a miracle if the project, in which Ethiopian Airline had 49 per cent stake, Nigerian private investors — SAHCO, MRS and other institutional investors — 46 per cent, and the Federal Government, five per cent, had been able to fly. 

    We agree with the aviation and aerospace development minister that the five-year tax waiver which the airline got was unfair advantage over existing airlines. We also agree with him that ceding of the appointments of employees at all levels to the Ethiopian investors was detrimental to Nigeria’s interest. 

    We therefore urge President Tinubu to scrutinise the file passed to his table and, if necessary, bring in experts to advise him on the way forward. Nigeria has suffered too much embarrassment on this matter. Aside the ones already pointed out, Ethiopian Airline only recently came out to say that Nigeria came begging to get it involved in the project.

    Enough is enough. A country our size, with all the potential in air travel, does not need to be so ridiculed just because we want to have a flag bearer.

    As a matter of fact, we call for a thorough probe of everything that pertains to Nigeria Air. Nigerians want to know the truth, the whole truth on this project. Who played what role in the entire saga. It is only when these are ascertained that we can know fully the next step to take.

  • Saraki What would he do next?

    Saraki What would he do next?

    Predictably, the current travails of Senate President, Bukola Saraki, has brought to the fore the many undercurrents playing out within and outside the National Assembly, reports Remi Adelowo   

    Monday, September 21 was a particularly stressful day for embattled President of the Senate, Abubakar Bukola Saraki.

    In the early hours of the day, a large number of supporters and close political associates of the nation’s number three citizen had thronged his official guest house located in the highbrow Maitama area of Abuja. The sprawling structure shares the same fence with the official residence of the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Solomon Arase.

    Saraki’s supporters were on hand to show solidarity with him over his ongoing travails with the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB), which slammed a 13-count charge of false declaration of assets on the Senate President. Looking flustered and troubled while the session lasted, the number three citizen was, unarguably, a shadow of himself in spite of the brave face he tried to put up.

    About one hour later, the Senate President with his guests in tow, headed straight to the Asokoro residence of Alhaji Kawu Baraje, one of his closest political associates for another round of consultations.

    Curiously however, his retinue of security men comprising of operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) and policemen, stayed back at the guest house allegedly on Saraki’s instruction.

    The meeting at Baraje’s house was to deliberate on the ruling of the Court of Appeal and the Federal High Court in Abuja, which declined Saraki’s request to stall his trial at the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT).

    Sources disclosed that a top lawyer, who is a member of Saraki’s legal team, was on hand to brief the house on the imperative of obeying the ruling of the CCT, which had summoned the Senate President to appear before it unfailingly on September 22.

    The Senior Advocate of Nigeria hinged his position on the “unfavourable” rulings of the Appellate Court and FHC, which failed to stall Saraki’s trial at the CCT.

    But minutes before the meeting at Baraje’s house ended, a signal was dispatched to the security men who arrived well on time and escorted Saraki to the National Assembly complex.

    Arrival of Ekweremadu and other Senators

    Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu, arrived moments later and joined Saraki in his office. And in twos and threes, many senators loyal to the Senate President arrived to consult with him.

    Expectedly, the main agenda of the meeting that took place between Saraki and his loyalists centred on the appearance of the former in court the following day for the commencement of his trial at the CCT.

    Some of the lawmakers include Dino Melaye, Ben Murray-Bruce, Ighoyata Amori, Peter Nwaoboshi, Gilbert Nnaji, Emmanuel Paulker, Samuel Anyanwu, Gershom Bassey, Ibrahim Dambaba, Rafiu Ibrahim, Shaaba Lafiagi, to mention but a few.

    The Nation gathered that all the senators present pledged their unalloyed loyalty to Saraki, and also restated their resolve to stand by him in his ordeal.

    Shortly before the meeting drew to a close however, one of those present expressed worry by the relatively small number of senators present. The import of his statement was not lost on the gathering.

    In the last few weeks, particularly after Saraki’s asset declaration saga became public knowledge, there have been fears that some lawmakers under the aegis of ‘Like Minds’ Senators, the group loyal to the Senate President, have become battle weary and toying with the idea of withdrawing their support.

    But the Senate President, a source said, reportedly responded that some of those absent are presently on pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia, adding confidently that he can still vouch for their loyalty to him.

    Saraki reaches out

    Though the Senate President has kept a stoic face that he is on top of the dire situation he is entangled in, a source disclosed that behind the scene, he has in the last couple of days reached out to three of the nation’s former leaders and other influential Nigerians to intercede on his behalf to the President.

    While one of the ex-leaders indeed spoke to the President on the issue, the two others allegedly declined and instead asked him to make peace with his party at “whatever cost.”

    The euphemism for “whatever cost”, according to a source is for Saraki to either step down or accede to his party’s position on the composition of principal offices in the Senate.

    An attempt by Saraki to also co-opt the Emir of Kano, Mohammed Sanusi (an old student of the prestigious Kings College like Saraki) was also futile as the monarch failed to extract any commitment from the President.

    Battle on many fronts

    The next few months will, no doubt, be the most trying period in the political career of the former Kwara State governor.

    Right now, he is currently entangled in four complex cases involving himself; his wife, Toyin; his business associate, Kennedy Izuagbe, a former Director of the defunct Societe Generale Bank and Managing Director of one of Saraki’s business concerns, Carlisle Properties and Investments Limited and the alleged forgery of the Senate Rules.

    Izuagbe was recently declared wanted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over the alleged discrepancies in Saraki’s asset declaration forms.

    The development, sources noted, suggest that the EFCC may also reopen the probe on the collapse of SGBN under Saraki’s watch.

    A statement by the Head of Media and Publicity of the EFCC, Mr. Wilson Uwujaren, said Izuagbe is wanted for alleged laundering of about N3.6 billion. Izuagbe has since got an injunction from a Federal High Court restraining the EFCC from effecting his arrest and interrogation.

    The EFCC is also investigating Toyin Saraki over alleged questionable business transactions during her husband’s tenure as Kwara State governor from 2003 to 2011 and may likely press charges against her once findings are concluded.

    The alleged forgery of Senate Rules, which the Police have reportedly concluded its investigations on, may also resume once the legal obstacle erected by Senator Gil Nnaji, a staunch Saraki loyalist, who some weeks ago, secured an injunction to stop the Police from pressing ahead with the case, is set aside.

    Would he fight back?

    Within the last four months that Saraki has been at daggers drawn with his party and the Presidency, he has proved that he is not one to be cowed easily.

    It would be recalled that after his controversial election as Senate President in June, an opportunity for Saraki to mend fences with the APC leadership soon presented itself on the selection of principal officers of the Senate.

    In a ‘no victor, no vanquished’ compromise that would have resolved the Senate leadership tussle, the APC National Chairman had written a letter to Saraki intimating him on the decision of the party to have Senator Ahmed Lawan (Yobe), Saraki’s main rival for the Senate Presidency picked as the Senate leader with Senator George Akume (Benue) as his deputy.

    For the position of the Chief Whip, Prof. Olusola Adeyeye (Osun) was the party’s choice, while Senator Abu Ibrahim (Katsina) was to serve as his deputy.

    In total defiance of his party, Saraki instead named Senator Ali Ndume and Bala Ibn Na’Allah as the Senate Leader and Deputy Senate Leader respectively, with Senator Francis Alimikhena picked as Deputy Chief Whip.

    He was, however, silent on the candidate of the South-West geo-political zone, who was expected to fill the Senate chief whip post. Saraki hinged his decision on the letters he received from the North-East, North-West and the South-South caucuses of APC. Curiously, he was silent on the position of Chief Whip that Senator Olusola Adeyeye was pencilled down to fill.

    Like in a movie thriller with several twists and turns, the Saraki saga took another dimension with the quizzing of Saraki’s wife, Toyin by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over alleged shady contracts during her husband’s tenure as the governor of Kwara State.

    EFCC acted on a petition allegedly written by the Kwara State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). But a few days after Toyin Saraki’s appearance at the anti-graft office in Abuja came the denial from Kwara PDP that it forwarded any petition against the former Kwara first lady to the EFCC. Insinuations were rife then that the volte face by the Kwara PDP was at the instance of its national headquarters.

    Again, Saraki refused to be beaten to submission. On August 25, the Senate Committee on Public Petitions and Ethics summoned the EFCC Chairman, Ibrahim Lamorde, to appear before it over allegations of N1trillion fraud.

    The invitation was sequel to a petition written by Dr. George Uboh, Chief Executive Officer, Panic Alert Security Services.

    Uboh had alleged that the EFCC boss diverted multi-billion naira funds, including the loot recovered from a former governor of Bayelsa State, Diepreye Alamieyeseigha and former Inspector-General of Police, Tafa Balogun.

    The petitioner had also alleged that EFCC operates accounts in banks to warehouse recovered funds, which do not reflect in EFCC’s audited accounts; doctoring and manipulation of bank accounts to conceal diversion of funds; release of recovered funds to unidentified persons and EFCC officials and movement of funds from its recovery accounts to the agency’s operations accounts from where it diverts same.

    Other allegations are that over 95 percent of EFCC’s recoveries in foreign currencies, other than those from multinational companies have been diverted; trading with recovered funds through bank deposits and placements; colluding with real estate companies in order to grossly undervalue seized assets before they are sold to cronies; non-accountability of offshore recoveries, while over half of the assets seized from suspects are not reflected in EFCC exhibit records.

    The petitioner and Lamorde were to appear before the Committee for questioning over the alleged fraud allegedly committed during Lamorde’s tenure as the Director of Operations of the EFCC between 2003 and 2007, as well as the Acting Chairman of the commission between June 2007 and May 2008.

    Lamorde failed to turn up at the Senate hearing, even as not a few believed that Uboh may have acted at Saraki’s behest to get back at EFCC for “the embarrassment meted to his person by his wife’s invitation.”

    The obstinacy displayed by the Senate President so far in his “war” with his opponents has raised fears that he may have some “jokers” up his sleeves in response to his arraignment at the CCT.

    Options before Saraki

    That Saraki is not willing to go down without a fight is becoming clearer every passing day.

    And he has loyal comrades in PDP Senators who are said to be absolutely angered by his trial at the CCT, and are poised to go for the broke with the Presidency, which they believe is behind Saraki’s travails.

    With the commencement of the trial of Saraki fixed for October 21, the Saraki camp, The Nation learnt, has returned to the drawing board to perfect its plot against the Presidency.

    One of the options being considered is that in the event that Saraki is convicted by the CCT, a new Senate President from the PDP would be elected to replace him. Security agencies are in the know of the plot, it was gathered. The PDP senators are banking on the support of the APC senators loyal to Saraki to achieve this plan, a source disclosed.

    There are also speculations that pro-Saraki lawmakers have “laid an ambush” for President Muhammadu Buhari’s ministerial list, which would be made public anytime soon.

    “The list may be rejected along with the previous appointments made by the President in protest against Saraki’s trial,” The Nation further learnt.  Some of these appointments include those of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Nigerian Customs Service (NCS), Assets Management Company of Nigeria (AMCON), Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), among others. The game plan, sources insist, is to frustrate the President.

    Though it is not clear yet how the PDP senators intend to frustrate the ministerial screening, but an APC senator who spoke to The Nation on condition of anonymity, said they may rely on a Senate rule, which stipulates that any ministerial nominee that fails to secure the endorsement of at least two Senators from his state would be not be cleared.

    When reminded that the rule was jettisoned by the 7th Senate in the clearance of Senator Musiliu Obanikoro, whose ministerial nomination by ex-President Goodluck Jonathan was vehemently opposed by the three senators from Lagos State- Mrs. Oluremi Tinubu, Ganiyu Solomon and Gbenga Ashafa-the PDP Senator replied, “You have forgotten that Obanikoro’s nomination scaled through, because the then Senate President, David Mark, was on the same page with the Presidency. But the scenario we have now is completely different, because Saraki, who is being frustrated by the APC, would remain on his seat when ministerial screening gets under way.”

    Beside the endorsement of two Senators from the state of origin to clear every ministerial nominee, another Senate rule stipulates that former lawmakers at state and federal levels would only be asked to “take a bow and go,” though it is not clear yet if these rules would be strictly enforced this time around.

    The powers of the Senate President, it was gathered, may be brought to bear in the clearance or rejection of the nominees. “David Mark could have acceded to the demands of the Lagos Senators to reject Obanikoro’s nomination, but he used his powers as the presiding officer to thwart that move. Trust Saraki to also deploy his powers for maximum effect,” said the PDP senator.

     

    Crack in Saraki’s camp

    While the plot to frustrate the Presidency is afoot, a seeming crack has reportedly ensued within the pro-Saraki group known as the ‘Like Minds Senators’ over the most feasible method to resolve the crisis.

    Some weeks ago, Senate Leader, Ali Ndume (a Saraki loyalist) paid separate visits to President Buhari and the National Leader of the APC, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu.

    Ndume’s visits to the two leaders were to seek for their “understanding and forgiveness” on the role he, in concert with others played in installing Saraki as the Senate President.

    But to Ndume’s shock, both Buhari and Tinubu reportedly restated their loyalty to the supremacy of the party and that the minimum irreducible condition for peace was for Saraki to obey the party’s position on the composition of the leadership of the National Assembly.

    Ndume’s peace initiative, however, allegedly did not go down well with Saraki, who was quoted to have boasted: “We (Senators) don’t need the President; he is the one who needs us.” This statement soon got to the ears of some trusted aides of the President and APC leaders, a source disclosed.

    Signs that all may not be well in the Saraki camp emerged last week during his appearance at the CCT, as many of his known supporters in the Senate were absent.

    Later that evening, Saraki’s Media Office issued a statement claiming that about 50 Senators accompanied the Senate President to the Tribunal in solidarity with him. But as it later turned out, only 25 senators were counted as having gone with him to the venue of his trial.

    Several excuses have been adduced as reasons for the senators’ absence. While some of them like Ndume were away in Saudi Arabia on pilgrimage, a few others particularly Dino Melaye (spokesman of Like Minds Senators), were believed to be battling with their cases at the Election Petition Tribunal, with others also believed to have stayed away in order not to be “caught in the crossfire between Saraki and his opponents.”

    Other (un)likely options

    In most political disputes where no idea for settlement is considered impossible or unlikely, a few options are presently being bandied to resolve the Saraki saga once and for all.

    The possibility of the “combatants” agreeing on a political solution is being talked about within the APC circles. And that would mean the President intervening to save Saraki from his ordeal.

    But sources in the party have dismissed this option, insisting that the President will not under any circumstance influence the wheel of justice in the spirit of his anti-corruption agenda.

    Political observers say another likely or unlikely option Saraki is faced with is to eat the humble pie, resign and make peace with his party leaders. That way, his trial at the CCT, which his sympathisers describe as “political,” may be thrown out.

    But this option has a major challenge. It would make nonsense of the President’s anti-corruption stance and rubbish his integrity.

    The third option is for the Senate President to enter into a plea bargain, and this way, gets a light or no conviction but forfeit his assets to the government. “That is very, very unlikely. The Leader (as Saraki is fondly addressed by his associates) would never agree to that,” said one of his loyalists, a former commissioner in Kwara State.

    The Nation gathered that none of these latter options sound as sweet music in the ears of both the pro and anti-Saraki camps.

    While the Saraki group believe accepting these options is akin to pleading guilty to the charges against him, his opponents are also sufficiently infuriated enough that they are not willing to give him any breather at this stage.

    The other option before the two camps is to dig in and allow the judicial process to run its full course.

    “He is not shaken,” said a source close to him, adding, “With majority of senators solidly behind him, the Senate President will retain his seat come what may.”

    But can Saraki retain the loyalty of his colleagues (some of whom are battling to save their skins) as his trial gets into full swing next month? Would he survive this battle which has undoubtedly been the most testing in his political career or get consumed in it?

    The next few months may well provide answers to the posers.

     

     

  • Femo, what next?

    Dear reader, Hardball hopes you don’t mind this rather cheeky opener this Monday morning, but the question really is: Femo, what next?

    Femo, of course, is the smooth-talking and sweet-tongued Femi Fani-Kayode, who seems to lay much store by the sweetness of his tongue and the smoothness of his elocution than the sense or nonsense of his subject.

    His principal, President Goodluck Jonathan, not the best in the land when the subject is elocution and the  gift of the gab, would appear well and truly wowed by Fani-Kayode’s oratorical talents, so much so he made him the chief spokesperson of his presidential campaign.  Ah, the president is entitled to his beloved choice!

    Still, it is amazing how Femo runs himself into a ditch — with his principal’s cause of course!

    Even after the unlamented burial — with full contempt — of a certificate scandal that was not, Femo is still waxing lyrical about a phantom “forgery”.

    Hear the son of Fani-Power talk as if only power, brazen power, matters; and never common sense: “We do not know who the authors and masterminds of this forgery are, but whoever they are, we urge them to come forward and be identified”.  “If they fail to come forward voluntarily,” he warned, “we hereby call on the Police and other security agencies to seek them out, find them, arrest them, interrogate them and prosecute them in accordance with the laws of the land.”

    Some talk, yak, yak!

    The Police and other security agencies — as in public security services in private vice-grip of his ruling federal party?  But thank God for small mercies, Femo barely escaped the late Augustus Aikhomu’s syndrome — Admiral Aikhomu, the Chief of General Staff (CGS) to Gen. Babangida as military “president.”

    The late naval officer threatened to gaol a certain group of citizens for alleged offences.

    “We will gaol them,” he thundered to the media — until somebody pinched him: “Your Excellency, you have not tried them …” “Yes” the gamesome marine soldier conceded, “we will try them and gaol them!”

    At least Femo still talks of prosecution “in accordance with the laws of the land”, even if his body language suggested more of the late Aikhomu stuff.  Thank God for small mercies!

    But the notorious fact is, as Femo continues to waste his time on a dead and buried scandal that was not, even the most gullible of his former riveting audience has moved on.

    Even as he huffed, puffed and threatened, Alhaji Isyaku Bello, the current principal of Buhari’s old school that made public the report, has invited the doubting Thomases to come see the original of the document, if only to purge them of their verbal diarrhoea!  But Fani, Hardball guesses, is far too gone, working himself into a lather!

    Well, Hardball’s sincere observation.  Fani and his party started phantom campaigns of spite and blackmail, and at every juncture, they have woefully failed. First, it was the opposition as Islamic party. Then, it was anticipation of a Muslim-Muslim ticket.  Then, the conjuring of Buhari being allegedly down with prostate  cancer. And now, it is the dead and buried certificate non-scandal.

    Meanwhile, as Femo and co waste precious time over inanities, they de-market their principal and give his opponent the bounce!

    So Femo, what’s next in your factory of mischief?

  • What next for Fashola?

    What next for Fashola?

    On May 29, Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola (SAN) will bow out of office, after completing two terms of eight years. Unlike some of his colleagues who are eyeing the Senate, he has declined to contest. What future awaits the performing governor? Group Political Editor EMMANUEL OLADESU asks.

    Seven and half years have passed like a flash of lightening since Mr. Babatunde Fashola (SAN) became the governor of Lagos State. On May 29 will bow out of office after a meritorious service.

    What role will he play when he vacates office? Will he return to his chamber? Many had expected that the governor will vie for the Senate in the Lagos West District, which hosts the seat of government. But, he did not show interest during the primaries. During the search for a running mate to the APC presidential candidate, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, his name came up. But, a Muslim/Muslim ticket is no more in vogue. If the party forms the next central government, would he make the cabinet list? Or will he set up a non-governmental agency (NGO) to pursue worthy causes in aid of humanity?

    For many years to come, Lagosians will recall the Fashola years with fondness. He will be remembered as an astute and hardworking administrator. In the governorship and presidential campaigns, references are made to his achievements in the Centre of Excellence. But, according to party chieftains, the governor will not be remembered as a strategic politician, powerful organiser and shrewd mobiliser.

    Two men, Akinwumi Ambode, the APC flag bearer, and Jimi Agbaje, the PDP candidate, are struggling to succeed him. Judging by the predictable disposition of Lagosians, the APC candidate will have an edge over his PDP rival at the general elections. Although many thought that Fashola did not support the former Accountant-General and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance at the primaries, Fashola has started campaigning for the chartered accountant. Many said that after the primaries, he has despelled the rumour. The governor said that Ambode was his preferred choice from the beginning. Some believed him, other did not, reality dawned on Fashola that he will be succeeded by the chartered accountant has urged the people to vote for Ambode for sustainability.

    At the flag off of the governorship campaigns in Ikeja recently, the governor justified Ambode’s candidature, saying that he is better than Agbaje. He said the former Accountant-General has youthful vigour and zest, which are required for the job.  “It is a tough job. I took the job at the age of 44. Now, I am 52. When I took the job, I could count the number of grey hairs I had. Now, I can’t count them again. I thank Lagosians for giving me the job. I thank Lagosians for also taking care of me. Akinwumi Ambode is younger than me. You need youthfulness to do this job. That man (the PDP candidate) is already 60. An old man cannot do the job. If you call him at midnight, he will not pick your call, “ he added.

    When he bows out, Fashola will not be on the same pedestal with his indomitable leader and predecessor, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu. Since he may not deploy deft political skill and political sagacity, as the outcome of the governorship shadow poll has shown, the legal luminary may play nominal roles in party affairs at the state level in post-2015 period. It was believed that the governor was either backing the aspiration of Works Commissioner Dr. Obafemi Hamzat or Supo Sasore (SAN), his former Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice. But, both aspirants could not fly.

    Few brilliant minds are as lucky as Fashola. When he succeeded Alhaji Layiwola Mohammed as the Chief of Staff in 2003, eyes were not on him. The lawyer from Surulere was a quiet, easy-going, and cigarette-smoking lefty-commissioner in the cabinet office. Before he joined the government, he was a promising lawyer in Kafaru Tinubu Chamber. Although he occupied a powerful and influential position in the Tinubu Administration, he did not see himself as a politician.

    Fashola was expected to be the link or liaison officer between the government and the ruling party. But, according to sources, he was not keen about the role. Therefore, when his boss nominated him for governorship, many party members were surprised. Tinubu’s Special Adviser-designate on Political and Legislative Matters, Hon. Lateef Raji, who broke the news to reporters, said the former governor had seen what many people could not see. “Our leader, Governor Bola Tinubu, is backing a particular aspirant. He described him as the SAN with a sound mind. I tell you, he will become the next governor,” he said.

    When members of the State Executive Council got wind of Tinubu’s succession plan, there was a bitter opposition to it. The exception was Works Commissioner Rauf Aregbesola, who supported his boss.

    Other aspirants were envious. There was a sort of resentment. The aspirants-Otunba Olufemi Pedro, Prince Abiodun Ogunleye, Senator Tokunbo Afikuyomi, Mr. Jimi Agbaje, Dr. Tola Kasali, Mrs. Remi Adikwu-Bakare, Ganiyu Solomon, Hon. Oyinlomo Danmole-protested. When Fashola stormed the party secretariat on Acme Road, Ogba, Ikeja to collect the nomination form, drummers accosted him at the gate. He was not prepared for funfair. He waved at the crowd, baring the two-finger victory. Tinubu became Fashola’s coach. At the palace of the Ayangburen of Ikorodu, aspirants were spending money for drummers and party women. Fashola was indifferent. The former governor said: “Tunde, as a politician, you need to spend money too.”

    Before the primaries, there was a live television debate involving the aspirants. Fashola and Pedro nearly clashed at the event. Apparently in a bid to disparage the office of the Chief of Staff, the former deputy governor likened it to an inconsequential portfolio. Fashola fired back, saying that he allocated official duties on behalf of Tinubu to the members of the executive council.

    After the primaries, there was a revolt, although it was short-lived. Some aspirants ran to the Afenifere leaders for refuge. But, they later returned to the Action Congress (AC) when they discovered that their future was bleak there. Tinubu embarked on reconciliation. A party insider said, although the position of running mate was offered Adikwu Bakare, she rejected it. The circumstances surrounding Tinubu’s inability to return to the Senate in 2007 were also not in the realm of conjecture. The coast was not clear. The experienced politician saw the handwriting on the wall. The power loaded President, Olusegun Obasanjo, was not disposed to Tinubu’s senatorial ambition. The former governor therefore, stepped down and gave the ticket to an aggrieved governorship aspirant, Solomon.

    After assuming the reins, Fashola began to build on his predecessor’s achievement in a grand style. He cleared Osodi, to the surprise of people who thought that it was impossible. The Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) was already in the pipeline. Fashola implemented it faithfully. He also embarked on road construction, school rehabilitation and housing projects. Lagos became a huge construction site. Those who grumbled when Tinubu insisted on Fashola as the candidate said that the former governor has been vindicated. Governors, ministers and other foreign officials visited Lagos to commend the governor. Niger State Governor Babangida Aliyu described him as the best governor and a role model, urging other governors to emulate him.

    Despite his performance, it was relatively difficult for him to secure re-nomination in 2011. There were certain developments that made the second term race uneasy. Reality dawned on Fashola camp that the primaries was an exclusive party affair and certain things must be put right to secure re-nomination. A source said that the House of Assembly dangled the impeachment hammer. Although Fashola survived, the lessons were not lost on him and other apolitical figures in government. His former deputy, Sarah Sosan, was not that lucky. Her position was taken by another Awori, Mrs. Tawa Orelope-Adefulire, who was the Women Affairs Commissioner.

    In his second term, Fashola consolidated on the achievements of the first term. There has not been any lull in governance. Even, controversial steps and difficult decisions were taken in the interest of the state. An eloquent speaker, Fashola justified every action during the 100 days programme, where he rendered accounts.

    As preparations for the governorship gathered momentum, there was tension in the ruling party. Many chieftains, including Dr. Muiz Banire, the National Legal Adviser, raised an alarm that the party may be doomed because of its culture of imposition. Before then, Fashola had bared his mind on succession. At Tinubu’s birthday in Lagos, he publicly advised his leader not to be partial in political selection. An unruffled Tinubu, in his reply, reminded the governor of how he emerged. Stressing that he had no regret about his support for his candidature at the 2007 primaries, the former governor emphasised that, if he had not been partial, Fashola would not have become governor and Lagos would not have achieved the tremendous progress.

    Tinubu’s reply threw more light on the doctrine of party supremacy and the gerontocratic wisdom of elders as the guidance of the process. There are three characteristics of a political party-ideology, organisation and leadership. Although many will aspire, there is need for elders and leaders to brainstorm on what is suitable for the party and acceptable to the voting public.

    In fact, many politicians perceive political partiality as a loose concept. A legislator, Bisi Yusuf said: “When it does not favour them, it is imposition. When it favours them, they talk about party supremacy and party discipline.”

    Under normal circumstances, a governor will not be indifferent to the nature, tendency and sentiment of his successor. However, according to observers, the climate must be right. Thus, when Fashola attempted to assert personality, sources said he could not mobilise for the success of his preferred candidate at the primaries because he was not in control of the party machinery.

    In post-2015 period, Fashola may write his memoir. Many are of the view that the achievements of his administration should be documented. If he returns to his profession, he will not be the first lawyer-politician to do so. Shortly after his release from the prison and after serving as the Federal Commissioner for Finance, the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo picked up his wigs. Other politicians-Chief Richard Akinjide, Chief Kehinde Sofola, Chief Theophilus Benson, Chief Adeniran Ogunsanya-resumed the practice of law after leaving government.

    Fashola will remain a factor in Lagos for a long time because of his achievements. Many also believe that he will be a reference point in good governance.

     

  • ‘I’m prepared to move Abia to the next level’

    ‘I’m prepared to move Abia to the next level’

    Two-time deputy governor of Abia State, Eric Acho Nwakanma, is aiming at the coveted job of the state chief executive. In this interview with Agamnetochi Onoh, Nwakanma, who is chairman of the Federal Neuro-Psychiatic Hospital Enugu and former Deputy Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, argues that Governor Theodore Orji’s successor must be someone who has passed through the governor’s grill and is ready to run. Nwakanma says the cap fits him. Excerpts:

    Eric Acho Nwakanma’s well documented track record in the politics of Abia and his national assignments seem to be an advantage in his current quest to occupy Government House, Abia State.

    Apart from a group of Abia indigenes seeking attention in faraway Washington DC in the US, through a press conference, giving the impression that Governor Theodore Orji and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) were advocating for power shift in favour of Abia South, the home of the Ukwa/Ngwas, the move is a done deal of the citizenry. The well-advertised press briefing by Engineer Nweke Ndineze under the umbrella of ‘Abia Progressives Union’ said the group was registering its concerns over the move, urging leaders of the National Secretariat of PDP to intervene and correct the purported zoning arrangement. Yet, the governor’s gesture and that of the party in favour of power shift have received the endorsement of all the senatorial zones in the state. And one of the beneficiaries of this political arrangement is Acho Nwakanma among the many aspirants squaring up to move into Orji’s big shoes. Nwakanma’s website has received thousands of visitors since he made an open declaration and intent to step into the gubernatorial contest. A twice deputy governor, Nwakanma’s learning curve in the art of governance and the political process of who gets what and what gets done took place under the watchful eyes of Governor Orji and he does not fail to acknowledge how this has changed his world view on many issues.

    Also equally important is his ability to adapt what he learnt in government into his private life and public service at the national level. A good example is his large farm which he sees as a practical response to Orji’s agricultural revolution in Abia, an agrarian state that suffered a somersault after the civil war. Another is the Acho Nwakanma Foundation, through which he is fighting the cause of the mentally ill, using his legislative experience to effectively bring this to the knowledge of a greater number of Nigerians through the passage of a bill at the National Assembly.

    For Nwakanma, governance and peaceful co-existence can only prosper when fairness and equity become the watchword. As he puts it: “When you look at equity, you concentrate on the intent not the content. The shift of power to the Ukwa/Ngwa axis is intended to give us a sense of belonging; we have qualified candidates in all ramifications from the axis.”

    Ukwa/Ngwa, he insists, houses the economic nerve centre of the state, the Enyimba City, called Aba, which if developed, will enhance the general economy of the state. Nwakanma acknowledges that even Aba has received a face-lift and tremendous infrastructure development, the previous administrations ignored.

    A mention of Kalu took him to memory lane when reminded the only way to steer the state to the next level beyond the legacy projects of the Orji administration was to have a rugged chief executive that must not wobble under the pressure of godfatherism and what in Abia is popularly called “mamcracy” both of which imply a political philosophy of mother and son dominating the state politics. Nwakanma reclines on his sofa and adds he knew where the reporter was coming from, which is the alleged rumour in many informed quarters that he was too soft to face Kalu’s ambition of regaining the political control of the state.

    First of all, he asks, how is it possible that Abians who suffered and experienced unparalleled economic regression for eight years plus under the former governor, would want to have him back? The elite was blamed for going to sleep because politics was considered to be dirty and that was how the state was hijacked by those who saw it as the easiest route to expand their economic empire. But that belongs to the past, he adds. Nwakanma will not let the argument rest, asking how he would go back to a man under whose service as deputy governor he suffered so much victimisation and neglect, reminding you that the entire Abia elite and the grassroots were unanimous in the rejection of Kalu and his style of politics.

    “When I have the mandate of the people how can I turn against them and bring him back? We are enjoying unprecedented unity and cohesion in the PDP because of the open-mindedness of the governor, the Ochendo. He brought everyone under one umbrella. We do not want any rabble-rouser in our midst. We will not change our position on this matter.”

    Nwakanma adds for the avoidance of doubt that he is dedicated to ensuring that the unity in PDP remains constant and that the party will continue to govern Abia State because “we have people-oriented programmes endearing the people to us. We are moving forward.”

    Nwakanma who is obviously thrilled with the huge network of infrastructure development known as the legacy projects of the Theodore Orji administration says he will ensure this prodigious assignment remains sustained and elevated to the next level. Legacies, he stresses, are meant for posterity and a critical study of these projects will tell you why they are called as such.  Hear him: “His Excellency, Governor T.A. Orji has invested in critical infrastructure, provision of security, good governance, and sustenance of the physical environment. I am particularly excited by the massive investment he has made in healthcare and youth empowerment.

    “Looking at the wider picture, he has made monumental accomplishments in providing optimum security and a business friendly environment, building critical infrastructure and uplifting education, creating wealth and employment through empowerment, strengthening governmental institutions and elevating the civil service while guaranteeing a clean environment for healthy citizens.”

    But his love for Orji’s agricultural revolution policy knows no bounds and he insists it is one sector the outgoing governor has done so well after infrastructure and health development. He adds: “Agriculture has been a sector the governor has done creditably well. With the establishment of Liberation Farms all over the state, the governor realised that there is a lack of modern skill, set amongst our farmers.

    “He has embarked on a comprehensive training programme in modern farming methods, using the Liberation Farms. Some stipends are also being paid these farmers as they undergo training. You see Abians are predominantly farmers although most of them are in the subsistence category of farmers.

    “However, the governor’s objective is to produce commercial farmers and drive up Abia’s rating, increase revenues, and make more people gainfully employed, injecting revenue and agro-inputs. But there are limitations given the funds and the resources available to Abia State.”

    Nwakanma says under his administration, agriculture will witness a tremendous patronage having practiced it and known what it takes to be a farmer at different levels adding he would aim at elongating the value-chain for most farm produce, identifying and focusing on the areas the state has comparative advantage.

    “My mission in agriculture will be to fashion out policies and programmes that will assist our farmers to produce all year round for the populace, market their produce, put more money into their pockets, and increase raw materials for our industries.

    “Key ingredients will be finding markets for our farmers and increasing the value chain through processing and finished products. I shall also propel a complete shift from the traditional farming methods and develop unique but modern approaches.”

    On the health angle closely followed by the gains in the education sector, Nwakanma says while working with Governor Orji, he saw the tremendous turn-around witnessed in both sectors. And when he was nominated to chair the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, he started crusading for improved healthcare package, amiable and better understanding of the mentally ill in society. That mindset, he explains, will come into play in the new dispensation.

    Beyond these pontifications, grabbing the power centre of Abia is the most important issue without which these aspirations will remain mere platitudes and it calls for a sense of urgency, he insists. The often-repeated question of what makes him think he is the best man to wear the cap is posed at him. Nwakanma says his period of learning and all that he learnt remain an indelible growth process needed about now to move Abia forward. “I have been exposed to an awesome and stimulating experience, walking the ropes and under the tutelage of Ochendo, the people’s governor.  It was worthwhile, especially in preparing me for the task ahead.”

    According to him, “it opened my eyes to the challenges that a governor would face, giving me a hands-on familiarity with the job. I would not entirely be a newcomer to the task of being the number one servant of the state. Let me give an example of something I learnt on that job.

    Working as Deputy Governor, he adds, made him realise that Abia State did not have a long-term development plan. So each governor that came had to bring his own approach to governance and the delivery of democracy dividends but with Orji things began to take a turn for the best.

    “They each had their unique vision of what they wanted to give to the people of Abia by way of result-oriented governance. And I had the opportunity of understudying them. Now I am better equipped, having learnt from the mistakes of the past, the successes of the present and the challenges of the future. All rounds, the experience was strengthening, he said.

  • BOGOF: Circus Jona

    BOGOF — Buy One and Get One Free — it is Circus Jona, prime entertainment unlimited! Won’t you try us, with our money-back guarantee, should we fail to amuse and excite, with the most rib-cracking hilarity you ever saw?

    It’s confirmed: we are the world’s most entertaining couple!

    Enter, Show 1.

    I’m the man, the Nebuchadnezzar, the army general, the dictator and the “muscler”-in-chief, if I really want to be.  If I use even 50 per cent of my humongous power, the town would be a hubbub. But I don’t want to. I prefer to be humble and modest, you know, the debonair uncle next door.

    But how do they pay me back?  They feel my gentility is stupidity!  Imagine, the loud mouths.  Because a few blokes stole a few millions, ordinary stealing, they now shout and scream it is corruption!  Can you imagine?  To add insult to injury, they now say I should account for it: me, commander-in-chief!  Is it because I am so modest and humble?  Insult!

    Then, they say some lunatics stole some girls.  The names of the girls we don’t know.  Their pictures we don’t see.  Even their mothers sef, they probably are ghosts.  So, how can I start looking for something I’m not even convinced is lost?  Now, they have started a campaign: abusing me, spoiling my name and giving the enemy media of the West the temerity to call me names: clueless, distracted, incompetent.  Chai!  One even claimed I was “unfortunately named”!  What have I done to deserve all these?

    Anyway, my God is alive and my pastors, prayer warriors, are alive and praying hot prayers.  These newspapers and television and radio and wires and internet and online media will soon hear from my God.  After all, there was a paper, which they called NEXT, which did nothing but attack me.  But where is NEXT today?  My God be praised, where is NEXT today?  As dead as dodo!  So, others, beware!  Touch not the Lord’s anointed.

    Enter, Show 2.

    I am she, the Prime One, Mother of the Nation, ambassador of peace, water that kills the fire of war — war, from where they share blood, chai!

    My country people, see me see trouble o!  Wetin I do sef?  I tried to help them look for their missing daughters, and they say I no know grammar!  Chai!  What have I done wrong?

    All I know is: there is God.  Everything we do, there is God.  What did I do wrong?  Boko Haram thief girls.  They say my husband should go find the girls.  My husband be Boko Haram?  Chai!  There is God.

    I even tried, I tried to help them find their missing girls.  I tried, call prinspal: come tell us what you know.  I tried, call my daughter, mother of the girls, I am their grandmother.  Yet, she no come.  Even the prinspal, na only she waka come.  Chai!  There is God.

    They say my husband no try.  As I tried to help, they say my own too much!  Wetin I go do now?  There is God oooooo! Chai!

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • Wike is next Rivers governor, says Obuah

    Rivers State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Felix Obuah, yesterday said Minister of State for Education, Chief Nyesom Wike, will be the next governor of Rivers State.

    Wike, who is the grand patron of the Grassroots Development Initiative (GDI), also vowed not to return the Rivers State PDP structure to Governor Rotimi Amaechi. He said change had come to the state.

    The minister also said President Goodluck Jonathan would seek re-election in 2015, although the President has said he would not declare his 2015 plan until next year.

    Wike and Obuah who are leading the anti-Amaechi group in Rivers State, spoke at the inauguration of the Ahoada East Local Government and Ward (13) Executives of the GDI. The event was held at the playground of St. Peter’s Catholic Primary School, Ahoada.

    The inauguration was preceded by a thanksgiving service/dedication of the Ahoada East Local Government chapter of the GDI at the St. Paul’s Anglican Cathedral.

    But Amaechi said he would remain focused and committed to his administration’s transformation agenda and would not be distracted by the enemies of progress.

    Obuah said: “I want to appreciate the members of the GDI, for the wonderful work you are doing, especially with the crowd of this magnitude. If GDI, a socio-political organisation, can pull this crowd, what will happen when the PDP is campaigning in Ahoada East LG?

    “It is on this note I am calling on the would-be governor of this great state, who I believe, by God’s grace, is here in our midst (Wike), that we need a 50,000 capacity stadium in Ahoada. If PDP is coming for campaign, this arena (St. Peter’s Catholic Primary School, Ahoada) will be too small.

    “That is why I am calling that the ancient city of Ahoada, the headquarters of Orashi region, to have at least a 50,000 capacity stadium. I want to thank the GDI members for tremendously mobilising support for President Jonathan.”

    The Rivers PDP chairman, an indigene of Omoku, the headquarters of Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGA of the state and a former Chairman of the council also called on PDP members who would be at the party’s convention on August 31, to vote a former National Organising Secretary of the PDP, Uche Secondus, as the Deputy National Chairman of the party.

    Wike said: “I am very happy. I thank all of you who made today to be possible. God Almighty will bless you. GDI is for the emancipation of Rivers people. Change has come to Rivers state. Wherever you are, make a mark.

    “If we had allowed Chibudom Nwuche (former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives) to represent you (Rivers West Senatorial District), we would not have had a deaf and dumb representative (Senator Wilson Ake). What have they done? We have made a mistake. We shall correct that mistake.

    “They will not face reality. He (Wilson Ake) wants his elder brother (Chief Godspower Ake) to continue to be the Rivers chairman of the PDP, in order to continue in the Senate. God says it is not possible again and it will not happen again. I am not afraid of Wilson Ake. The truth must be told. “

  • It’s Umuahia next for Federation Cup — Eguma

    It’s Umuahia next for Federation Cup — Eguma

    Dolphins’ next competitive game will come up on Wednesday, July 17 at Umuahia in the Federation Cup Round of 32. The game will be against Akwa Starlets of Uyo.

    To get to this stage, Dolphins beat NAF Rockets of Abuja 3-1 in Benin while Akwa Starlets beat Kwara United via penalty shoot-out after full time ended 2-2.

    Last season, Dolphins got knocked out in the Round of 64, their worst ever performance in the Federation Cup, but Eguma insists that will not happen this season.

    “The Federation Cup is different. It brings a lot of surprises and we work against any unforeseen thing.

    “By their name Akwa Starlets, people may want to underrate them but we won’t do that because they worked hard to get to this point. We will come out fully to fight with them and ensure we are not taken by surprise,” Eguma said.

    Dolphins have won the Federation Cup four times, in 2001, 2004, 2006 and 2007.

  • Who is next PDP BoT chair?

    Who is next PDP BoT chair?

    The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Board of Trustees (BoT) will pick its new chairman today in Abuja. Assistant Editor AUGUSTINE AVWODE writes on the contest.

    Today is the D-Day. For nine months, the position of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Board of Trustees (BoT) has been vacant. But it will be filled today. The position became vacant, following the sudden resignation of former President Olusegun Obasanjo in April, last year.

    PDP BoT secretary Senator Walid Jubrin disclosed a month ago that no fewer than 20 persons have indicated their interest in the position.

    According to Section 12(76) of the party’s constitution “a person shall be qualified for appointment into the Board of Trustees (BOT). If he or she is a registered card-carrying member of the party for not less than four years consecutively.

    Also, he must have been paying his annual subscription regularly. Besides, the person must have attained the age of 50 years. The person should be a man or woman of integrity.

    The constitution equally spells out the composition of the board in Section 12.76(1). It should be made up of all past and serving Presidents and Vice Presidents of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, who held or hold the respective posts as members of the party and who are still members of the party. Also, all past and serving national chairmen, deputy national chairmen and national secretaries of the party who are still members of the party are members. All past and serving Presidents of the Senate and Speakers of the House of Representatives, who are still members of the party are also members.

    The PDP constitution also states that two women should be selected from each of the six geo-political zones. Three members, at least, one of whom shall be a woman, from each of the six geo-political zones.

    It is from among these people that officers of the board which include the chairman and secretary, are to be elected as stipulated by Section 12.77 of the constitution.

    “The Board of Trustees shall elect a chairman and a secretary from members of the Board…The chairman, secretary and other members of the board are to enjoy a single term of five years”.

    The major responsiblity of the board, according to Section 12.80 of the party’s constitution, is to “ensure highest standards of morality in all the activities of the party by acting as the conscience of the party, with power to call to order any officer of the party whose conduct falls below the norms”.

    When Obasanjo was appointed as the BoT chairman, he was the only one eligible for the post. The constitution had been amended to permit his sole candidature being the only former president elected on the platform of the party. Obasanjo literally strolled into the office after he served out his second term as president. However, with the amendment of the constitution after Obasanjo’s exit, other members of the party who are interested can now vie for the office.

    Expectedly, the race for the chairmanship has attracted a lot of passion and interest within and beyond the party, not only because of the duty the BoT is expected to perform as the “conscience of the party,” but because of perceived political advantages the occupant of the post can swing in anybody’s favour.

    To many PDP leaders, whoever emerges as the chairman will play a crucial role during the 2015 general elections, particularly, the presidential election. That, perhaps, explains why almost every group of note within the party is doing everything possible to protect its interest and ensure that its preferred candidate clinches the chairmanship seat.

    As at the time of filling this report, those at the fore-front of the race include former Senate President Ken Nnamani; former Minister of Works, Chief Anthony Anenih, who once held the office; former PDP national chairman Dr. Ahmadu Ali; former Chairman of the All Nigeria People’s Party (ANPP) Board of Trustees (BoT) Chief Harry Akande; former PDP deputy national chairman Alhaji Shuaib Oyedokun, and PDP chieftain Chief Emmanuel Iwanyanwu.

    As it is often the case, the position and interest of the President will play a major factor in deciding who will eventually emerge as the winner. It would be recalled that notwithstanding the concerted opposition to the candidacy of Alhaji Bamanga Tukur as the national chairman from his Northeast geo- political zone, President Goodluck Jonathan’s insistence on having him as the chairman of the party brought all other contestants to their knees. But in this instance, it has been difficult to identify the President’s preference for the job.

    The appointment is not based on zoning. But, the agitation for equity reared it head last week when the Southwest caucus of the party demanded that the zone be allowed to produce the BoT chairman.

    Besides, indications are that for the first time, the chairman of the board may emerge through election, rather than the usual consensus method. Whatever the case is, the party will have a new BoT chairman today.

     

     

  • Bright Dike: I want to be at next year’s Nations Cup

    Bright Dike: I want to be at next year’s Nations Cup

    Super Eagles new call-up Bright Dike has told MTNFootball.com in an exclusive interview from Miami he is looking forward to making it to next year’s AFCON.

    Congratulations Bright on your invitation to the Super Eagles?

    Thank you.

    How did you receive the news of your invitation?

    I was very happy when I got the news, though I knew I would get a chance to play for Nigeria if I kept doing well, but I must say this was a dream come true. It’s every player’s dream to get chance to represent his country. I will do my best to justify this call-up.

    Tell us a little more about yourself.

    I’m 25 years old, an attacking midfielder who plays for Portland Timbers in the MLS.

    How much do you know about Nigerian football?

    I know about the national team and I do follow them. I know a lot about Nigerian players in their clubs.

    Based on your assessment, who is the best player ever from Nigeria?

    That has to be ‘Jay Jay’ Okocha. He was a wonderful player. He was so talented that he could do whatever he liked with ball.

    When was the last time you visited Nigeria?

    I was there last Christmas.

    Who is your role model?

    My parents. They showed me the way, they are always supportive and lead me through the right path.

    What are your dreams with the Eagles?

    I want to be a regular face in the team and get a chance to play at next year’s Nations Cup. That will be a great achievement for me. I would be honoured to be in South Africa to represent my country.

    What clubs have you played for?

    I played for University of Notre Dame. I also played for Indiana Invaders and Los Angeles Blues.

    What are your dreams as a footballer?

    I want to play at top level for both club and country. I want to play in the UEFA Champions League, Nations Cup and World Cup. I love the English Premier League and would be thrilled to play for Chelsea or Arsenal.

    When was the best moment of your career so far?

    That was when I scored my first-ever hat-trick as a professional. It was in the US Open Cup in 2010 against Kitsap Puma.