NYSC and Ibrahim’s two years’ impactful leadership, By Leonard Aluor

By Leonard Aluor

A Congolese proverb says; “You do not teach the paths of the forest to an old gorilla.” The Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (DG-NYSC), Brigadier General Shuaibu Ibrahim is an old administrative gorilla in Nigeria. He has dispensed himself perfectly, both as a soldier and administrator per excellence. Anywhere he berths his feet, it leaves in its trail, remarkable accomplishments.

Like his brief sojourn at the Nigerian Army University (NAU), Biu, Borno state, as pioneer registrar, Gen. Shuaibu’s two years’ stint as the DG-NYSC have similarly ingrained his peculiar mark of excellence as a scholar, an astute administrator, innovator, reformer, team player and goal getter in administering the scheme.

 He has proven exceptionally, the ageless wisdom in the old Ghanaian adage that “All heads are the same, but not all thoughts are the same.” Gen. Shuaib’s thoughts bubbles with germinative ideas, which he monitors closely to fruition.

Gen. Shuaib has changed the fortunes of the NYSC from a wobbling, but sensitive agency of Government to a formidable youth scheme, through dexterous management.

NYSC is now amply meeting its core mandate of bridging the gulf between the years of academic work and the first practical experiences of young Nigerian graduates towards the ideals of ethnic inculturation, repulsion to religious prejudices’, self-reliance and personal development and national productivity.  

The DG-NYSC has determinedly faced and overhauled the hitherto dormant Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development programme of the scheme and turned its dwindling fortunes into harvestable gold for corps members. He has successfully utilized the one month’s practical skills training in the orientation course content for corps members during camps for expansion of personal knowledge in various trades; an antidote to personal development and self-reliance.   

Through faithfulness to this policy thrust, Gen. Shuaib is dialoging with The FGN and other relevant stakeholders to formally establish a legislation-backed   NYSC Trust Fund.  The NYSC Trust Fund envisages to source funding from a certain percentage of profits netted by some mega corporate bodies operating in the country; which in addition to financial empowerment of passing out corps members, would confer financial independence in funding NYSC projects such as expansion of orientation camps and renovation of dilapidate camp facilities.

Gen. Shuaib has tenaciously fought and purged the scheme of the menace of corruption in NYSC, evident in the admittance of prospective corps members with fake results. NYSC is no longer an abode for jobless Nigerians or roadside artisans, who never went to school, but dubiously sneaked into the scheme and became perpetual corps members, through his stern physical verification.

The NYSC boss, prioritizes the welfare of corpse members. Under his leadership, the Presidency approved an increment in the monthly allowance of corps members to N33,000, above the prescribed New National Minimum wage. It is intended to create a window for prudent NYSC members to save part of the stipends to invest into employable initiatives after service. And when the NYSC Trust Fund finally takes off, employment would have been dealt devastating punch in the country.   

The NYSC leadership is restless and relentless to gain its financial independence, by harnessing initiatives designed to increase revenue flow into the agency. Therefore, the scheme is aggressively pursuing its investments initiatives to boost its income generation, rather than depend on the mono-source of revenue which at the moment majorly falls on the FGN and intensifies its financial stress.

Consequently, the abandoned NYSC water and bakery factories at NYSC orientation camp Kubwa have been revived and functioning maximally.  The NYSC now uses its own water at orientation camps in many parts of the country and the products from these investments are competitively visible in the markets of neighboring states such as Abuja, Kogi, Nasarawa, Kaduna and, Niger among others.

Furthermore, Gen. Shuaib’s leadership, the NYSC   has constructed a two thousand bird capacity poultry farm at Kwali, FCT. And it has almost completed the resuscitation of the NYSC Poultry Farm, Ita Ogbolu, Ondo state. He is injecting life into moribund NYSC ventures, as the NYSC Rice Mill Ezillo in Ebonyi is nearing completion for full operations; likewise, the NYSC Feed Mill in Lagos state, which is primed and technologized for the production of animal feeds.

The highly innovative DG-NYSC, in alliance with stakeholders have dialogued and obtained the consent of the State Governors of Edo, Ekiti and Nasarawa states on support for the scheme’s investment drives. These State Governments have graciously donated land for the establishment of NYSC Garment Factories for South -South, Southwest as well as a whooping 16 hectares of land for crops production for revenue generation and platforms of training of more corps members in industrial and agricultural capacities.

And through the direction of the NYSC boss, the first time ever, NYSC Wood (Film Company) and NYSC National Cultural Troupe have been established.  And he has secured their thriving and sustenance by striking a smooth relationship with National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC) for the proper indoctrination, training of corps members and technical supports.

Gen. Shuaib has repositioned the NYSC to begin to disseminate and articulate its activities to the public. He has therefore secured an operational license for the scheme’s proposed radio station, where corps members will directly be empowered to speak to Nigerians wherever they are domiciled for the primary assignment.  

Partnership with relevant agencies, bodies and corporate organizations for the benefits of serving corps members is a focal policy of the Brigadier Gen. Shuaib’s administration.  So far, the NYSC under his directorship has partnered a dozen of such organizations for the personal development of corps members and national productivity.

Gen. Shuaibu recognized instantly that the diversification of the economy through agriculture was a central policy and obsession of the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari. He has spared no stone in ensuring corps members are trained on the latest farming techniques and encouraged to embrace agriculture as their contribution to national food security.  

In the pursuit of this laudable vision, as soon as Gen. Shuaib assumed duties at NYSC, he revamped the scheme’s four farm settlements across the country as part of efforts to key into the FGN’s agriculture diversification initiative. NYSC mega farms in Abuja, Bauchi, Kebbi and Oyo states have been activated.

Corps members have also been compelled to embrace the FGN’s rice policy programmes  and excitingly, the scheme massively  cultivated  rice in  its Abuja  and Kebbi farms in the 2020 cropping season; as in  the  2021 farming season,  its  rice farm at Ezillo, Ebonyi state, would join the fray of robust NYSC rice fields. And the hectarage of its farmland rose astronomically from 60 hectares to 160 hectares in the 2020 farming season.

To this end, the NYSC also partnered for the training of   68 corps members among the 269 pioneer graduates,  trained  as soil doctors and extension services workers,  by the National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA) in collaboration with the  Government of Borno state. It is a major step towards the rejuvenation of agricultural engagements in the country.

Additionally, the NYSC has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Leventis Foundation Nigeria on training of corps members in agricultural best practices.  The initiative is also to fully empower corps members with the relevant skills, bolster self-reliance and avail them incentives that would encourage the pursuit of food sufficiency in the country.

Similarly, the modalities’ have been worked out between the NYSC and the British American Tobacco Nigeria   Foundation for the training for corps members on agro-allied related ventures. And Gen. Shauib also induced corps member to enlist in the national battle against the raging Covid-19 pandemic, which they participated excellently.

The Ghanaians have also posited in a proverb that; “If we put a hammer in every person’s hand, could they all become blacksmiths?” But Gen. Ibrahim Shuaib has demonstrated his competence as a blacksmith, who has effectively applied the hammer in his hands in the management of NYSC. 

Aluor is a public affairs analyst and wrote from Oduduwa University, Ife.

Lawyer Writes Buhari, Calls For IGP Removal ...Cites Due Process

By Dansu Peter 

An Abuja based legal practitioner, Barrister Silas Onu has appealed to President Muhammadu Buhari to avoid the embarras sment of being documented as a serial law breaker in the court records by acting in accordance with the very law he assented to.

Barrister Onu also urged the President to avoid being misled into the destruction of State Institutions with unnecessary politics and influence peddling.

The legal practitioner said these in an open letter he wrote to President Buhari in respect of the appointment of Usman Alkali Baba as the acting Inspector-General of Police and the implication of appointing a legally unqualified person to such position.

Barrister Onu encouraged the 

President to heed his admonition in the overall interest of our nation, especially at this precarious time that legitimacy will go a long way in covering the gap created by obvious acts of nepotism at the expense of our law and national unity.

Barrister Onu in his open letter dated May 10, this year to the President, pointed out that Nigeria is currently going back to the same scenario of unnecessary distractions of lobbying and attempts to subverts the clear provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Nigeria Police Act, 2020 by desperate politicians who are only interested in 2023 elections and are out to impose an unqualified IGP who they believe will do their bidding.

The legal practitioner, in his open letter asked, "Why do we enjoy the destruction of State Institutions with unnecessary politics and influence peddling? 

He added, "It is widely rumoured that so much money have and is being spent in the bid to retain the appointment of anyone as Inspector-General of Police, irrespective of the obvious lack of qualification – whether this is true or not, it should not be allowed to degenerate to this level before Mr. President does the right thing and act by the law.

"I am hopeful that Mr. President will heed to this kind admonition in the overall interest of our nation, especially at this precarious time that legitimacy will go a long way in covering the gap created by obvious acts of nepotism at the expense of our law and national unity.

"If Mr. President knew that he was not willing to abide by this law, why did he assent to it? 

"Is the application of law now subjected to political, ethnic and religious considerations? 

Continuing, Barrister Onu said, The subject matter of appointing a new Inspector-General for the Nigeria Police Force has been one that I saw as an opportunity for this great nation to rise above primordial cleavages and, for once, abide by the letters and spirit of our laws devoid of politics, nepotism and or religious and tribal sentiment. "That was my driving force when I challenged the tenure extension granted to the former Inspector-General, Adamu Muhammed upon his statutory retirement. 

"That case was due for judgment before Mr. President realized the error and effectively removed him from office.

"My action was not borne out of hatred for the former Inspector-General of Police, neither is my present resistance for the appointment of Usman Alkali Baba as the Acting Inspector-General borne out of tribalism or religious consideration. 

"My action is solely a passionate pursuit of justice for Nigerians and the need to uphold our laws as they are presently in effect. 

"My action is a patriotic public interest activism aimed at ensuring that our foremost internal security institution is insulated from politics and unnecessary favoritism in the appointment of its leadership.

"Mr. President will agree with me that the wrongful extension of the tenure of the former IGP led to an unnecessary distraction in the core responsibility of the police as the then IGP became pre-occupied with lobbying to secure his office rather than securing the lives and properties of Nigerians. 

"He hired lawyers to present bizarre argument on his behalf with the intention of turning the law on its head in order for him to remain in office beyond his mandatory statutory retirement age.

"Your Excellency, we are currently back to the same scenario of unnecessary distractions of lobbying and attempts to subverts the clear provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Nigeria Police Act, 2020 by desperate politicians who are only interested in 2023 elections and are out to impose an unqualified IGP who they believe will do their bidding.

"One wonders why the President of the Nigerian Senate whose chamber was involved in the enactment of the Police Act, 2020 will be silent when a clearly unqualified person is appointed as the IGP of Police at a time that our nation is in need of 100% lawful actions required for legitimacy in the security sector of our nation. 

"At least, the Nigeria Senate should be seen and heard insisting that the law they passed to reform and professionalize the Nigerian Police Force is strictly adhered to in implementation. 

"However, it seems the Senate is even in support of totally breaching that law for their political convenience.

"Also, it is greatly depressing to imagine that the Attorney-General of the federation might have advised in support of such an unlawful appointment as he has remained silent after openly defending the most illegal tenure extension of the former IGP. 

"The Attorney-General of the federation seems to be more interested in politics than upholding our laws. 

"There is no other reason for the Attorney-General to turn a blind eye over such an illegal appointment except politics or genuine lack of understanding of our laws – that is most unfortunate. In both circumstances", he said in the letter.

My Passion For Badagry's Development Beyond 2023 - Prince Sesi Whingan

By Dansu Peter 

A renowned business mogul and young philanthropist turned politician, Prince Sesi Oluwaseun Whingan has said his passion for Badagry's development is beyond politics and his 2023 Federal House of Representative ambition.

Sesi made the declaration while playing host to some political leaders, bigwigs and gladiator within the corridor of Badagry who recently met with him in his country home, Ikoga Zebbe Badagry Lagos State.

The renowned leaders, who preferred not to be named numbering about 22, representing all 11 wards in Badagry  Federal Constituency had visited him to pledge their supports for his ambition.

They declared that their resolved to support him was purely based on his antecedents. They said, they have been keenly monitoring and following his philanthropic and developmental gestures to various communities across the length and breath of Badagry for the past six years. According to them, no individual in the history of Badagry has done so much for the common people without holding any political power. They said if he could be doing that much to the people without being in power, how much more he would do if elected.? 

One of the leaders on behalf of others said, "... Sesi has rehabilitated some bad roads in some communities, he recently re-equipped  a Primary Healthcare Centre located in Pota, where the whole hospital was refurbished and re-equipped with both medical and non-medical equipment worths several millions. During the Covid-19 pandemic lockdown, when no one could go out to fend for our families for survival, when most of our political leaders were nowhere to be found, Sesi came to our rescue by regularly ditching out fantabulous relief materials;funds and foods packages to virtually all our communities in the three local government council. There are physically challenged individuals who have benefitted from his kindness, on every festive period, his welfare packages are second to none. On behalf of the other leaders, we are using this our visit to appreciate your kindness, philanthropic gestures and to also tell you that we are solidly behind you in your quest to contest for the Federal House of Representative seat to represent Badagry. You have our unalloyed support "

Sesi in response to the leaders' comment thanked them for the confidence repose in him and stated that he will by no means disappoint them. The young philanthropist further reiterated that he is passionate about Badagry and it's development. That either he is offered the honour to represent the constituent at lower chamber of the National Assembly or not, he would continue to do his best to develop Badagry. But given the opportunity to serve will make him serve them better with every available legislative powers.

Sesi, however concluded that his ambition is subject to the will of his people. He said no individual ambition is more than the collective will of the electorates. He said despite his passion to serve the people, his ambition is hinged basically on the will of the people. 

"No doubt, we are in democratic dispensation; democratically, you can't force or foist yourself on people. It's the people that must chose you, reason why I am seeking for your supports. My ambition to contest for Badagry Federal House of Representative is totally borne out of my passion to serve my people at that level, but if you don't want me there's nothing I can do, because your will come first. But I am assuring you, if you send me, it will not be business as usual. I will ensure Badagry's lost glory is restored. I will ensure we bridge the Socio-economic and infrastructural gap between Badagry and development at all cost. All I need is your genuine supports and prayers. " he concluded.

The meeting, which was well attended by his foundation team members led by Prince Wale Adesina, the former Secretary to the Local Council, Olorunda and several other leaders from his home ward, Ikoga ward.

MASSIVE PURCHASE OF APC NOMINATION FORMS FOR LOCAL GOVERNMENT ELECTIONS IS PLEASING - LAGOS APC SCRIBE

By Dansu Peter 

The Secretary of the Caretaker Committee of the All Progressives Congress in Lagos State Honourable Lanre Ogunyemi has described as pleasing, the massive response and show of interest in the purchase of nomination forms by aspirants willing to contest in the primary elections aimed at electing councillorship and chairmanship candidates to flag the ship of the party in the 2021 local government polls in the state.

Ogunyemi sees the large quest for nomination forms as an indication of continued public interest in the party.

According to him, the fact that as at the time of this report, close to One Thousand people have picked their nomination forms to jostle for the 57 Chairmanship and 377 Councillorship seats is a testament to the continued grassroots appeal, popularity and acceptance the party enjoys in Lagos State. 

He said sales of forms is still ongoing.

“Over the years, our party has remained the party to beat owing to our people-centred policies.“

“As you know, the local government is the closest tier of government to the people and our party is determined to produce credible hands who can further deliver on democracy dividends in these most challenging times”.

“We have also deliberately encouraged more youth, women and people living with disabilities to come on board by giving special consideration to them in our guidelines”, Ogunyemi concluded.

LG Polls 2021: Eko Youths Commend APC as Party Subsidizes Nomination Fee By 50% for Youths, Ask Other States to Follow Suit

By Dansu Peter 

Youths across the Centre of Excellence have commended the Lagos State chapter of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC for subsidizing the nomination fee of any youth within the age bracket of below forty years by 50%.

A youth leader in the state, who also doubles as the the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Sanwo-Olu on Youth Development, Akanbi A. Saheed Afonja made the commendation in a Press Statement made available to the media  on Friday, 7th May, 2021. 

Afonja said the youths in the state are very grateful to the ruling APC over what he described as harkening to the voice of the young people by subsidizing 50% of the party nomination fee for the forthcoming local government elections, just as it did to the female contestants. 

The youths in the party had earlier canvased and appealed to the leadership of the party, through the office of the Special Assistant to the Governor of Lagos State on Youth Development, to consider subsidizing the party's nomination fee charged for youths contestants, just as it did to the women. The plea, the party leadership obliged almost immediately. 

According to Afonja, the commendation became necessary  considering the spontaneous positive response to the request by Youths to the party hierarchy in this regard. 

He said this uncommon gesture, will not only allow and encourage youths participation in politics, but will also enable the youths in governance to take decisions that will determine their future.

 He also argued that youths participation in governance, especially at the grassroots will reduce youths agitation and foster peace in our various communities. 

He, however urged the youths across the state to seize this golden opportunity and get themselves involved in the forthcoming local government elections in the state. 

He advised youth to shun all forms of violence and thuggery as the elections fast approaching.

“Is it difficult for the Govt. to identify the sources of supply of arms and other provisions to Boko Haram?” - The Expert Views

Independent Researchers Update: Security Expert Views 

BY NACT-PVS

Following up from NACT-PVS’ Article on the security situation in Nigeria entitled, “Constructive And Deconstructive Of Nigeria’s National Security Challenges: The Buba Galadima NACT-PVS’ Special Study, By Senu & Daranijoh.” We have been receiving updates from Nigerian security experts around the world and NACT-PVS will be analysing these experts’ comments as they emerge. 

To start with this debate, we gathered this comment from a renowned and talented Security Expert, Security Consultant and Training Director bestowed with many laurels and medals to his honour, educating divers security agents in Nigeria, Prince Fred Wilson Oribhabor. According to the expert: 

“The insecurity situation in Nigeria is beyond mere rhetorics. Government is just playing the ostrich as I find it extremely difficult to believe that the insecurity situation in Nigeria is beyond government capability to address. Is it difficult for govt to identify the sources of supply of arms and other provisions to the Boko Haram? If any country is found culpable there are international laws, treaties and conventions to deal with such. The question is has Nigeria taken their security challenges to international organisations for assistance? NO! I have been listening to Buba Galadima I am his fan. He is one of the few Nigerians who are still courageous enough to tell the government the truth but how are his views being perceived? I listened to him on channels TV few days ago. What we are seeing is Islamization and Fulanization of Nigeria agenda. If Buhari govt wants to solve the problem they know and have the solution.”

Considering Nkasi Wodu, a New Voices Fellow at the Aspen Institute, is a lawyer, peacebuilding practitioner, and development expert based in Port Harcourt, Nigeria statement, "the Nigerian minister of defence recently enjoined Nigerians to take up arms to defend themselves against marauding bandits in their communities. The minister’s statement aligns with the grim reality that Nigeria has a serious internal security problem—and nobody knows exactly how to solve it" (Council on Foreign Relations, 2021). 

Boko Haram in the north is just but one of the many security challenges faced by Nigerians and among others is the rise of the militancy in the Niger Delta, the rise of the violence between herders and farming communities emerging from the central belt southward, and separatist Biafra agitation in the Igbo, South east, and the Oduduwa nation. Notably is the terrorism by the Boko Haram insurgency, has displaced over two million people, resulting to uncontrollable humanitarian problems, and with this is the increase of civilian vigilante self-defence groups with new look into security structures, all of these are challenging for modern day Nigeria (see Crisis Group, 2021). Following this discussion, we bring the question raised in this Article to our readers quoting Prince Fred Wilson Oribhabor, “is it difficult for the government to identify the sources of supply of arms and other provisions to Boko Haram?”

Nigerian security experts at home and abroad with a shared determination have begun speaking out. Do not be left out in this conversation!

We’d love to hear from you. Engage with us with this conversation at:  https://www.facebook.com/nactpvs/posts/3904948652952394 or email us your thoughts at: [email protected] 

References

Council on Foreign Relations. (2021, February 26). Nigeria’s Internal Security Problem. Retrieved May 06, 2021, from https://www.cfr.org/blog/nigerias-internal-security-problem

Crisis Group. (2021). Nigeria. Retrieved May 06, 2021, from https://www.crisisgroup.org/africa/west-africa/nigeria

"KNOWLEDGE BREAKS BARRIERS…AFRICA CREATES BRIDGES"

To read our newly published academic articles, please follow these links: 

Access links here!

A critical assessment of anti‐corruption strategies for economic development in sub‐Saharan Africa: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/dpr.12442  First published: 18 May 2019

African school of thought: The missing ideology in finding a solution to sub‐Saharan African insecurity: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/dpr.12397 First published: 05 July 2018

Email us at: [email protected] 

Group kicks against plot to destabilise Buhari’s government, ... vows to defend nation’s democracy

By Dansu Peter 

The Nigeria First movement says it will resist any attempt by vested interests to destabilise President Muhammadu Buhari's administration. 

The pan-Nigerian organisation said it is aware of the plot by disgruntled elements hiding under the nomenclature of activism to perpetrate evil in the country through the sponsorship of acts of violence along ethnic and religious lines. 

Nigeria First which raised the alarm at a press conference on Thursday in Abuja, however, vowed to defend the country's democracy. 

The Department of State Services (DSS) had on Sunday alerted Nigerians on sinister moves by misguided elements to wreak havoc on the government, sovereignty and corporate existence of the country. 

The Presidency echoed this warning on Tuesday, adding that the intention is to eventually throw the country into a tailspin, which would compel a forceful and undemocratic change of leadership.     

And speaking on behalf of the group, National Secretary, 

Richard Augustine-Adie said urgent and proactive steps must be taken, else Nigeria would end up in ruins.  

He, therefore, called on all well-meaning Nigerians to "stay united in one spirit, body and soul, for it is neither East nor West, South or North but One Nigeria, and the Nigeria of our dreams which is within reach if we stay united". 

While commending security agencies for their efforts in addressing the security challenges in the country, the group further cautioned these "unscrupulous elements to channel their resources and time to more productive ventures". 

The Nigeria First added that it would mobilise Nigerians to the streets should they continue with their despicable attempt at destabilising the country. 

Read full statement below: 

The leadership of Nigeria First welcomes you all to the important press conference in light of the recent happenings in the country that portends grave danger if the relevant stakeholders do not take urgent and proactive steps in the country. 

Nigeria First, as a pan-Nigerian organization with membership across the country, is alarmed with the turn of events in the country regarding the activities of some disgruntled elements that are hell-bent on causing disaffection in the country through a nefarious plot to truncate our nascent democracy. 

It is consequently despicable that the harbingers of violence and destruction have perfected the plot to destabilize the country to fulfil their desire to see the country burn and seize to exist. 

Nigeria First is aware of the seriousness of the plot and, as such, wishes to inform members of the general public to be wary of individuals and groups hiding under the nomenclature of activism to perpetrate evil in the country through the sponsorship of acts of violence along ethnic and religious lines. 

These individuals and groups have been behind the religious and ethnic tension in the country in an apparent attempt to divide the country along these lines and eventually set the country at war at this critical point of our existence. 

We wish to state in unequivocal terms that should urgent and proactive steps not taken, these harbingers of violence and conflict would have their way, and Nigeria would end up in ruins to the chagrin of the vision of our founding fathers. 

This is indeed the time for all well-meaning Nigerians to stay united in one spirit, body and soul, for it is neither East nor West, South or North but One Nigeria, and the Nigeria of our dreams which is within reach if we stay united and resist overtures from these unscrupulous elements to destroy the country. 

Nigeria First, as an organization in the vanguard of promoting the ideals of good governance, peace and unity in Nigeria, is sending a clarion call to all religious and ethnic groups in Nigeria to see this trying period as an avenue to prove to the world that there is strength in our diversity. 

This is also an avenue to send a strong message to these unscrupulous elements to channel their resources and time to more productive ventures that would have a meaningful impact on the lives of ordinary Nigerians instead of promoting and sponsoring acts of violence across the country.

Nigeria First wishes to remind Nigerians that the pledge to Nigeria our country, to be faithful, loyal and honest. To serve Nigeria with all our strength, to defend her unity and uphold her glory, is indeed sacrosanct. 

It is, therefore, our considered opinion that this is indeed time to come together and defend the unity of Nigeria in this critical point of our existence. If we don't do this, nobody will do it for us. It consequently behoves us to ensure that those plotting the destabilization of Nigeria are put to shame.   

Nigeria First, as an organization, is also using this medium to inform all those that have been fueling religious and ethnic tension in the country that Nigerians shall indeed expose and reject them in totality. 

We shall also mobilize Nigerians to the streets should they continue with their despicable attempt at destabilizing the country. We shall march for the unity of Nigeria, and we shall ensure that Nigeria stays united as ever. 

We also wish to commend the efforts of our security agencies in their efforts at addressing the security challenges in the country. It is indeed a statement that they have been proactive and doing all within their means that Nigerians are protected across the country. 

We must also remind Nigerians that the task at hand requires all hands to be on deck in our quest to stay united as a people and as a country, for united we stand and divided we fall. 

Nigerians must also do well to realize that the gains recorded in critical sectors of our economy have rattled some vested interests. As such, they are hell-bent on throwing the country into chaos by all means necessary. 

Nigeria First shall continue to engage critical stakeholders in this regard, and we make this solemn pledge to ensure that Nigeria continues to enjoy peace and tranquillity. 

Our support for the strides of the Muhammadu Buhari administration remains unflinching. This much we have demonstrated over the years, and we shall continue to in the quest to translate the hopes and aspirations of Nigerians across the country into tangible realities. 

It is our firm belief that Nigeria shall overcome its adversaries, and we shall come out as one solid and indivisible entity. 

We thank you all for your time and attention and implore us to take this message of peace and unity to our various constituencies.

Lagos Assembly urged to suspend Somolu LG boss over abuse of office, nepotism, falsified certificate, others

By News Proof 

The Lagos State House of Assembly has been urged to suspend the chairman of Somolu Local Government Area, Hon. AbdulHamed Salawu, over gross abuse of office, nepotism, disregard for constituted authorities as well as falsified identity and certificate. 

The call was made by some well-meaning indigenes of the local government under the auspices of the United Somolu Congress (USC) after due consultation with some councillors.  

This follows the suspension of three local government council chairmen over alleged disregard for the guidelines governing their activities. 

The suspended chairmen include Ogidan Mukandasi Olaitan of Lekki LCDA, Suleiman Jelili of Alimosho local government area, and Tajudeen Ajide of Surulere local government area. 

Reacting to the news of the suspension, the group in a statement signed by its secretary-general, Jimoh Ibrahim, on Wednesday, expressed shock that Sawalu was exempted all along. 

According to him, Sawalu's "many sins can not be swept under the carpet because of his links to the forces at the top", noting that he has done worse than the crucified trio. 

Dullar, as he is fondly called, has ruled with nepotism and total disregard for those in his domain whom he was elected to govern, the group said. 

As chairman, the indigenes further revealed that Sawalu, at different points, had his family member in charge of juicy committees, thus aiding him to misappropriate funds without a trace.

" How can a sister of a sitting local government chairperson head almost all committees set up? Is it a family business? If she was that competent, why was she deported from the United States?" Ibrahim queried. 

"We have carried out extensive research and gathered enough evidence against Dullar. We also have the blessing of some councillors to demand the suspension of our local government chairman. Obviously, they are anonymous because of fear of their political future ". 

Ibrahim added that plans are underway to submit a petition to relevant authorities to nail Salawu who, he says, also had his identity and certificate falsified. 

Dullar who was based abroad is said to have switched his identity after being deported. 

The embattled chairman, was initially known as Abdulsalau Ogembe, but reportedly changed his name to Abdul Hamed Salawu without any legal document to back the change. 

A source, who pleaded anonymity told Sahara Reporters, "Dullar is living a fake life with a false identity. If he changed his name legally, he should provide a newspaper where he did so. I only pity Somolu people who know nothing about this fraudster.

"A man who can change his name, is there another fraud bigger than that? Please Salawu, clear your name, your people deserve to know the truth," he said.

This implies that the Somolu LG boss uses a false certificate which makes him illegible to hold any elected position according to the Constitution. 

In sections 66 (1) (i), 107 (1) (i), 137 (1) (j), and 182 (1) (j), the Nigerian Constitution disqualifies candidates from gaining a public seat under review if “he has presented a forged certificate to the Independent National Electoral Commission”.

The source, however, expressed hope that the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) will do due diligence in screening him out if eventually escapes the state Assembly. 

He said, "With Salawu seeking re-election, it is expected that the commission will put aside partisanship and the 'Dullar' effect and screen out the incumbent.

"We know that he enjoys the goodwill of national leader of the All Progressives Congress, Bola Tinubu, hence he may emerge the party's candidate. But we are hopeful that this rogue will be exposed. This German deportee is only using political office to evade prosecution.

“It is no longer news that Salawu's papers were seized in Europe and America. He has written to the German and Canadian governments to demand them but to no avail.”

Group asks Ortom to resign over poor governance in Benue State

By Dansu Peter 

The Coalition for Truth and Justice (CTJ) has called on Governor Samuel Ortom of Benue State to resign over poor performance and gross ineptitude. 

In a statement signed by its Secretary-General, Hwande Titus Akase, on Wednesday, the group said the governor has failed to provide credible leadership since assuming office in 2015. 

According to Akase, the state has been reduced to a "fiefdom controlled by Ortom's family, friends and cronies, so much so that this group of people has consistently siphoned the resources of the state".  

 

The coalition noted that the result is deteriorating infrasture, zero development and untold hardship in the state, especially with the governor owing pensions and salaries for 72 and 10 months respectively

Instead of concentrate on delivering the dividends of democracy to his people, Akase said Ortom has found solace in the media where he diverts attention. 

The group said Ortom amassed hundreds of hectares of land for his cattle rearing business, leading to farmer-herder clashes while arming militias to do his bidding. 

The Coalition for Truth and Justice, therefore, concluded that there is no moral justification for Governor Ortom to remain in office. 

It, however, called on all relevant stakeholders to join hands and rescue the state from the governor for sustainable growth and development. 

Read the full statement below:

We welcome you all to this press conference converged on the heels of the decadence in governance in Benue state, which has become a source of worry to all concerned stakeholders in the state and the country at large. 

Benue State, under Governor Samuel Ortom since 2015, has experienced an astronomical level of decadence. Governor Samuel Ortom has elected to play to the gallery at the expense of providing credible leadership. 

The Governor has over the years turned Benue State into a fiefdom and controlled by his family, friends and cronies, so much so that this group of people has consistently siphoned the resources of the state under the direction of Governor Samuel Ortom. 

The Coalition for Truth and Justice is indeed worried that a state governor who claims to be working for the interest of the people could go to bed at night and sleep comfortably when 72 months (6 years) pension arrears of retired local government workers in the state have not been paid. 

It is also despicable that under Governor Samuel Ortom, the state government also owes teachers ten months' salary arrears, nine months of local government workers, and five months salaries of state government workers. It is consequently foolhardy for Governor Samuel Ortom to blame insecurity for his administration's inability to be up-to-date in the payment of salaries and pensions.

Thus, it is our considered opinion that governance in Benue state has been thrown to the dogs, and there is no moral justification for Governor Samuel Ortom to continue to remain in office as Governor of Benue State. 

The Coalition for Truth and Justice uses this medium to inform members of the unsuspecting general public that Governor Samuel Ortom has been engaging in media grandstanding, all to take the attention from his woeful performance in governance in the state. 

The general public might wish to know that there is a dearth of infrastructures in Benue State. The roads are bad and littered with potholes, there is a lack of portable drinking water, and farmers do not have access to fertilizers, rural dwellers do not have access to necessities of life and other instances on how Governor Samuel Ortom and his cronies have succeeded in impoverishing the people of Benue State. 

The Coalition for Truth and Justice is also alarmed that Governor Samuel Ortom has over the years busied himself with amassing several hundreds of hectares of land for his cattle rearing business in Benue state and to a large extent; this has been responsible for the frequent conflict in the state between herders and farmers.  

It is also worrisome that a governor would stoop low to arming militia to go after peaceful herders in the state just because he wants to dominate the business. After such attacks are carried out, the Governor is quick to blame it on Fulani herders. In truth, the Fulani herders are the victims of Governor Samuel Ortom’s plot at ethnic cleansing in the state. 

Thus, our opinion is that Governor Samuel Ortom does not have any business remaining as Governor of Benue State. As such, he should tender his resignation for the peaceful and loving people of Benue state to have a breath of fresh air. 

This is also on the heels that democratic governance has been bestialized in Benue State, as so the people. This is unacceptable and a reason why Governor Samuel Ortom must, as a necessity, vacate office as Governor of Benue State. 

Governor Samuel Ortom has betrayed the mandate of the people. He has subjected the people to untold hardship. He has deprived the people, and he has set Benue State back some donkey years using all available indices of governance through his actions and inactions. 

The Coalition for Truth and Justice is calling on all relevant stakeholders to join forces to rescue Benue State from the serpentine rule of Governor Samuel Ortom in the quest to restore the glory of the state. 

The Coalition for Truth and Justice wishes to emphasize that his antics must not deceive Benue State under Governor Samuel Ortom and the general public. We trust that those present at the press conference would take this vital message to our various constituencies. 

We thank you for your time and attention. We desire that Benue State experiences sustainable growth and development.

Constructive and Deconstructive of Nigeria’s National Security Challenges: The Buba Galadima NACT-PVS' Special Study, By Senu & Daranijoh

By Femi Senu & Folarin Daranijoh

(Independent Researchers at NACT-PVS) 

The security situation in Nigeria has gone beyond greed and grievance. Our research has forecasted that if this act of greed and grievance is not managed then Nigeria is heading for a civil war. Most significantly, the lack of human security, systemic corruption, and kidnapping all over the place just a few to mention. All these variables are fuelling civil war. Lastly, we have also gathered outstanding evidence that heavy use of coercive approaches against insurgencies without addressing the underlying causes will continue to fuel conflicts and more insecurity. These conflicts or violence will potentially, or gradually spread across the nation.

To enlighten on these subjects, we have gathered the extracts from the online video statement of Alhaji Buba Galadima on the Security Situation in Nigeria, dated 30 Apr 2021. We watched and observed this statement at the Nigerian Association of Criminology Terrorism and Political Violence Studies (NACT-PVS) with our team and experts and we have constructed the following analysis on the current security situation in Nigeria.  We ask our readers to watch this video with the following YouTube link:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mhJIIhSqa-E but pay close attention to our collective examination of Alhaji Buba Galadima’s statement and our analysis of Nigeria’s security challenges discussed in this matter. In this constructive and deconstructive article, you will be reading the following topics:

·         NACT-PVS’ Analysis Constructive and Deconstructive of Nigeria’s Security Challenges.

·         NACT-PVS’ Extracted Discourse of Alhaji Buba Galadima’s Statement.

·         Extracted Comments from Nigerians: Views on Nigeria’s Security Situation.

Nigeria’s security situation concerns everyone, but is Nigeria in a state of confusion right now? The kind of uprising seen with the Arab Spring that started on 17 December 2010 - can this happen in Nigeria (see Ruthven, 2016; Maleki, 2011)? Hold your thoughts and read our analysis, watch the video and observe what Nigerians are saying, analyse these comments and send us your reply.

NACT-PVS Analysis: Constructive and Deconstructive of Nigeria Security Challenges

Considering insecurity and security issues in Nigeria, there are many explanations to this and the current narratives on this matter has disconnected between Nigerian leaders and its citizens unwillingness to open doors to winning strategies or bring about a reduction to Nigeria’s security challenges. For example, Alhaji Buba Galadima has discussed that inviting Mercenaries to fight Boko Haram will be a solution to Nigeria’s Boko Haram, however, this discussion has not considered the negative impacts of foreign professional soldiers fighting a war or engaging in political violence related conflicts in another country. Case examples has shown that this will result in disaster and will worsen Nigeria’s situation; this is not a sustainable solution but rather will aggravate Nigeria’s existing insecurity situation. There are comparable data examples from around the world. Examples are seen in Libya, Syria, Yemen and many parts of the world and it would be reasonable for Nigeria’s leaders to learn from these. It is regrettable that Nigeria’s many talented individuals have been left out in the discourse of the country’s future and security.

Second, compliance with the rule of law in Nigeria is essential and this needs to be efficient and consistent. It is unnecessary for anyone to be above the law. Ministers, military gladiators, the senates and the president do not have to place themselves above the law. It is reasonable that Alhaji Buba Galadima in his discourse video stated that “no big head, all agencies of government, all tiers of government, to do their own proper jobs not sharing money alone” and that “we have taken loans running to billions of naira.”

Many Nigerians have shied away in the discourse of corruption. Nigerians need to wake-up to reality; there is no need to shy away from the reality that well known to all Nigerians that corruption is systemic in the country and corruption is at the heart of the reason why Boko Haram still exists and prospers today. Corruption is one of the prime reasons why many Nigerians, including mainstream journalists and some media organisations have failed to speak the truth about Nigeria’s insecurity situation. Corruption is at the heart of unemployment and the reasons why economic development is hampered. Corruption is the reason why Nigeria’s leaders have failed to use talented Nigerians and experts to help address insecurity situations and development matters in Nigeria. This includes exploring the talents of Nigerian scientists at home and abroad. And the fact remains that corruption has corrupted the corrupted and the corrupted have corrupted the uncorrupted. In this circumstance, it will be improper to discuss security with the corrupted. Incorruptibility has been corrupted in this matter, and engagement in this manner will resolve to a deep catastrophic insecurity phenomenon. To escape the consequences of these, such as seen in Libya, Yemen or Syria will be inevitable. The insecurity that Nigerians are witnessing today are the effects of corruption, mismanagement, incompetent leaders, a lack of ethical standards, of proactiveness and a conflict of interest at the edge of these levels amongst many more. It is not that Nigeria is lacking the strategies, laws or mechanisms to achieve all of these but it is corruption that has rendered inactive proactiveness, enforcement of laws and justice against corrupt leaders, and hampered genuine dialogue and strategic success (see Senu, 2019; Senu & Daranijoh, 2018). More political violence and civil wars are knocking at the door heavily and Nigerians need to wake up from their slumber before it is too late. There is already systematic political violence occurring in Nigeria every day and it is a matter of time before this escalates.

Are journalists’ part of Nigeria’s problem? This is in consideration to one of the comments extracted following Alhaji Buba Galadima’s video statement from one Nigerian who has watched the video. Our analysis on this is that, exploring the relationship between mainstream media or journalism into why some individual journalists or media organisations may or may not be part of Nigeria’s problems is crucial for Nigeria and our discussion above provided insight into these narratives. Notably of this is systemic corruption at all levels of Nigeria’s society and system. This has a part to play in the level of insecurity suffered by every single Nigerian today and in many cases, Nigerians themselves are part of the insecurity problems we face today, so no one is exempt. Corruption is at both the top and the bottom level of Nigerian society (see Senu, 2019; Senu & Daranijoh, 2018). 

Considering military solutions to Nigeria’s insecurity challenges, Nigeria needs to learn from other countries who love military solutions to every insecurity problem and the reason why human security concepts were introduced by the United Nations Development Programmes in the first place. Those who are taking the lead in Nigeria’s affairs need to be humble and educated into the national constraints in national security matters, the country’s citizens human security and state security needs and why political violence and civil wars occur. These discourses are essential and both Nigeria’s military and leaders needs a complete humble mind to understand deconstructive and constructive mechanisms of these variables. 

Extracted Discourse from Alhaji Buba Galadima Statement

By Buba Galadima, Elder Statesman

National Security Challenges in Search of Panacea

The security situation in Nigeria is scaring

There are:  Pressure 24/7 on security situation in Nigeria

The solution

“It is not arrogance, it is not big head. We have to subsume to the eventualities of the situation today in the country. The military is overwhelmed, the military is overstretched, the military is under-armed, and the military is not receiving any motivation. Their moral is low, they can not do what we expect them to do, which is supposed to do their job. We are sending our children directly into the gallous, that is what it means but there was a solution. Somebody tried it that we have accused and called the names. Dr. Ebele Goodluck Jonathan. When he came under pressure in 2015, he stopped the election by six weeks and imported mercenaries into the country after six weeks, election was able to be held in every polling-booth in this country and we promised the nation that we can stop the security challenge because we have experienced the people, tested people supportively, we can right the wrongs of the economy and this is where we found ourselves. There is something compounding this situation, which Nigeria don’t know and I want them to know because with the death of President Idriss Deby (additional information: the President passed away on 19 April 2021) we have become exposed, we have become vulnerable not only in Nigeria but in almost all the countries surrounding Nigeria, that is central Africa and West Africa. Idriss Deby has about two Southern strong armed, brave men that is holding (the) fort for Government in Niger Republic. Idriss Deby has got an unknown number of military people that is now probing the Government in Mali. So also, he has military people in Burkina-Faso. He is the one that is managing the security situation in Central African Republic. Then he is the one that is assisting Nigeria and Cameroon to stop the overtake of our territory by Boko Haram. Today Idriss Deby is no more. He was in Nigeria only five days to his death and signed a security memorandum with Nigeria for Nigeria’s Government. Yet, when this man died no Nigeria official, let alone a high-ranking person was sent for his burial. With this the government missed the opportunity to dialogue with other world leaders on surrounding insecurity challenges.”

According to Alhaji Buba Galadima, Nigeria has missed the opportunity to discuss “security situation with the vacuum created by General Idriss Deby.”  It is a known fact that the Chadian Government is the eye and the ears and the heart of the French government in Africa. Right now, Chad is facing a rebellion, a civil war because of the tribes that killed him and currently, there are now four rebel groups heading to Capital of Chad (N'Djamena; based on the countries listed by Alhaji Buba Galadima, these groups are supported by proxy foreign powers). And the current discussion is the refusal of the current Chadian government claiming not to negotiate with the alleged groups to have killed Idriss Deby and that if the Nigerian government was there, they would have facilitated negotiation.

Why is Chad important to Nigeria’s National Security?

According to Alhaji Buba Galadima, “the Multi-National Joint Force uses Chadians military equipment, uses Chadians military personnel”, and “one thing you must give the Chadians soldiers, they are very brave, they are very courageous, they are very resilient, and they can work under any condition not even afraid to die and that is why Idriss Deby, a sitting president of Chad, left his comfort zone and flew to the war front where he met his death and that is the kind of soldiers that Chad has.” It was claimed by Alhaji Buba Galadima that civil war is imminent now as the various groups are not negotiating with others. The narrative here is that, when Chad pulls its forces from Niger, Burkina Faso, Mali and the Central African regions it would make the whole region vulnerable and Nigeria would suffer the most. According to Alhaji Buba Galadima, “all the Governments will fall to the Bandits” and “where do we go to” as the “military now overstretched.”

What is the solution then?

The solution is simple according to Alhaji Buba Galadima “for me, first, the president must establish the war cabinet, we are in war, where every morning at 9 o’clock, they will sit down to review the security situation in the past 24 hours in Nigeria.” According to him, “if the president is not disposed, to doing that, he should get the Vice President to chair that committee or get the national security adviser to do that every morning, review what has happened within 24 hours.” Second, “no big head, all agencies of government, all tiers of government, to do their own proper jobs not sharing money alone, taking loans running to billions of naira. Just last week the National assembly approved loans for Mr. President. Have they asked, all the trillions that they have approved in the last six years, show us what you have done with the money? I hear, they tell us that they are not corrupt, its ok, you are not corrupt. You borrow this, this, this, what have you done with it?”

According to Alhaji Buba Galadima, it was also discussed that some of the projects initiated in Nigeria such as the Niger bridge, “is not Federal Government money” and “railway from Lagos to Ibadan” and the “Kaduna” railway “was constructed by (Sani) Abacha (Nigerian General whose years of service ran from 1963–1998: this was one of the former military presidents in Nigeria), even the wagons brought in to the port were not cleared until Yarudua time (born 1951 and died 2010; this was also one of the former civilian presidents in Nigeria) for clearing. I know this because I have been a member of delegation that have gone to China several times.” Discoursing the rail ways issues, Alhaji Buba Galadima confidently claimed that, “we know history” and “they cannot do that” and that “No Nigerian trusts this government” (i.e., we analysed that this is resulting from the many unfulfilled promises considering the effects of corruption discussed). The question was raised concerning these issues according to Alhaji Buba Galadima:

·         Are we secure?

·         Is there employment?

What should be done and secure life?

According to Alhaji Buba Galadima,” advising this government, even though I know that they will never take it. Once you say anything, they classified you as: are you for us or against us. Even if you tell them the truth and give them the best of advice, they will not take.”

The way out

“We can see even the president is not strong enough to give 24 hours of his time for this work, let him please, appoint anybody, even if it is his son, somebody.” That (i.e., somebody) “is proactive and can act on his behalf so that people sit down and analyse all these issues every 24 hours and proffer solutions and one of the solutions is that, they must use intelligence and technology in order to defeat” all these problematic challenges of insecurity discussed and “lastly, since the military is overwhelmed, the best he could do is to hire mercenaries” and “it is going to be cheaper for us, to advice our military.”

Extracted Comments from Nigerians’ Views on Nigeria’s Security Situation following Alhaji Buba Galadima statement

Tony Akubue:  Journalist are part of the problem in Nigeria because some of them are covering up the truth. Why is the journalist pretending that all is well with Nigeria or is she not aware that Nigeria is bleeding?

Anthony Odo: So Chad president want to catch Shakau they start calling him name that is why we said Nigeria government is sponsor of Boko Haram, this man always said the truth,

Daniel Chukwu: What convinces you to believe that Buhari who has ludicrously showcased displayed his incompetence throughout his tenure will suddenly have the wherewithal to handle Nigeria’s worsening security challenges? None of this man’s suggestions address the fundamental issues that has led Nigeria to this point. Military solution is not the absolute answer.

Tony Obodoechina: Big shame. A country of 200m with about 50% unemployed are talking about recruiting mercenaries. Conscription is a great option. Absence of Law and order, population explosion is our urgent problem. Those who are taking the leads must often sort for help from outside the country.

Mimi Owoeye: He said Chad is the one holding Nigeria security.  Idiots everywhere.  Our soldiers are brave!! The Nigeria Generals are the ones stealing all resources needed for the soldiers. Buhari wants a Fulani caliphate. All these information is noise making. Buhari is a big mistake.

Valgie Odukwe: Nigeria can only be saved when they agree to admit the true identity of person in Aso Rock and condemn the killing of BIAFRANS/IGBOS/ODUDUWA.. You all talk about the killings in the North and never the killings in the Southern parts of Nigeria.

Olumide Martins: We don't need massinary to fight for Nigerians  we are better and stronger than that....the northerners are very week niger is done  God help us no more security sir galadima just said the truth...no more security be were. That is why you northerners sold us out...are you now telling me that Chad military is stronger than nigeria Amy miss management of nigeria security by the northerners. We are over 200milion I know you sir that is why I respect you.

Alfred Anakwe: This is very serious but our leaders don't seem to care. I don't understand why our president won't speak with Nigerians. If he continues like this there will be another civil war in Nigeria. Only God can save us.

We thank you for reading this article but most importantly we ask that you leave us your comments to help us serve you better. Thank you! 

References:

Maleki, A. (2011, September 2). Uprisings in the Region and Ignored Indicators. http://www.payvand.com/news/11/feb/1080.html.

Ruthven, M. (2016, June 23). How to Understand ISIS. Retrieved May 03, 2021, from https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2016/06/23/how-to-understand-isis/

SYMFONI (Director). (2021, April 30). Alhaji Buba Galadima Speaks on the Security Situation in Nigeria [Video file]. In Youtube. Retrieved May 3, 2021, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mhJIIhSqa-E

Senu, O. (2019). A critical assessment of anti‐corruption strategies for economic development in sub‐Saharan Africa. Development Policy Review. doi: 10.1111/dpr.12442  

Senu, O., & Daranijoh, F. (2018). African school of thought: The missing ideology in finding a solution to sub-Saharan African insecurity. Development Policy Review, 36. doi: 10.1111/dpr.12397

"KNOWLEDGE BREAKS BARRIERS…AFRICA CREATES BRIDGES"

To read our newly published academic articles, please follow these links: 

Access links here!

A critical assessment of anti‐corruption strategies for economic development in sub‐Saharan Africa: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/dpr.12442  First published: 18 May 2019

African school of thought: The missing ideology in finding a solution to sub‐Saharan African insecurity: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/dpr.12397 First published: 05 July 2018

Email us at: [email protected]

New Dawn in Lagos as Youth Get "Eko Youth Ramadam Package, Free UTME/JAMB Forms & Reg.

By Dansu Peter 

In an initiatives that is no doubt unprecedented and first of its kind, the youths in Lagos State have begun to get special recognition from the state government as the office of the Special Assistant to the Governor on Youth Developments, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, Comrade Saheed Akanbi Afonja has initiated a twin programs; the Eko Youth Free UTME/JAMB Form and Eko Youth Free Ramadan Package.

The first to come was 100 Free JAMB Forms and registrations for some selected lucky indigent youth seeking admission to the institutions of higher learning across the nation. The beneficiaries, according to the the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor, Comrade Afonja would be drawn from all the 20 Local Government and 37 Local Council Development Areas in the state. He said the criterias for selection of the beneficiaries includes; must be Lagosian or proof of residence in Lagos state and must be youth 

The beneficiaries will also enjoy free Computer Based Test trainings in some designated centres across Lagos State to prepare them for examination.

Also at this Ramadan, the same office of the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has initiated Èkó Youths Ramadan Package. The initiative will see beneficiaries, which are going to be purely youths, drawn from the nooks and crannies of the state get packed luxury gift items to aide their prayers, fasting and supplication for the Holy month of Ramadan. According to Afonja, the distribution shall be done in batches.

No doubt, the appointment of Comrade Saheed Akanbi Ade Afonja as the Senior Special Assistant to Lagos State Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu is a birth of a new dawn for youths in the state.

Speaking with News Proofs, Afonja thanked the Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu,  the State's Commionssioner for Youths and Social Development, Mr. Olusegun Dawodu and other progressive stakeholders for their unflinching supports and encouragements since his appointment. He said those initiatives would not have been successful without them.

He, however reiterated that Governor Sanwo-Olu's administration is purely youths driven and poised to bring about the age long youth participatory in all sectors that has been lagging before now. He also hinted that there are more youths developmental initiatives backed by the State Government in the offing. He urged the youths in Lagos State to see this administration as an administrative for youth liberation and development. 

UVOBPI-TEAMCO: Monitoring-Observation-Advocacy Mission: "We are growing from strength to strength”

By Dansu Peter 

Mr. Femi Senu, a Security Expert and Political Violence Analyst Addressing members at the conference meeting 

The United Voice of Badagry People Initiative – Transparency Empowerment Accountability Management Communication and Organisation, Mission and Vision. This dedicated team has been working behind the scenes since October 2020 and has in last weekend held the 7th UVOBPI-TEAMCO Conference meeting. 

UVOBPI-TEAMCO members conference meeting entitled "We are growing from strength to strength” was held on Saturday 24th April 2021 as planned with members joining, include delegates in diaspora. The conference started at approximately 12:30pm - Nigeria and UK time and ended at 14.00pm with much positive feedback. Among the topics covered was an introductory module to a training section covering: The United Voice of Badagry People Initiative – Transparency Empowerment Accountability Management Communication and Organisation – Monitoring-Observation-Advocacy Mission (UTMOAM). This introductory module section explained UTMOAM’s System that the team has in place. This covered UTMOAM’s procedures and processes connecting TEAMCO at a National, State and local/community level in Badagry. Mr. Femi Senu, a Security Expert and Political Violence Analysist (an Author, Associate Researcher) Mr. Femi Senu, a Security Expert and Political Violence Analysist (an Author, Associate Researcher) explained in detail UTMOAM’s Quality Management System in relation to the procedures and processes connecting TEAMCO’s programmes and projects at a local level. 

The content highlighted many areas where UVOBPI – TEAMCO can collaborate with the United nation Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC) Chapters focusing on monitoring, observation and advocacy mission covering from: National to state, local and to community levels. The discussion highlighted the areas where UTMOAM can, and in many ways collaborate with UNCAC Chapters and Articles with focus to:

• UVOBPI – TEAMCO Civil Society Organisations (CSO) work

• Connecting local community and what the advocacy work will do, and explaining these in 4 steps using Chapter II - Preventive Measures (Covering articles 5-14), and Chapter III - Criminalisation and law enforcement (Covering articles 15-42)

Mr. Senu highlighted how UTMOAM targets these Chapters, and in particular Chapter III in line with UNCAC Articles such as bribery and corruption of public national officials; bribery of foreign public officials and officials of public international organizations; Embezzlement; trading in influence; illicit enrichment; abuse of functions; to mention a few. A detailed discussion covering the Articles summarised with UTMOAM Target specific in these areas and aspects of UNCAC Chapter III were discussed, such as: 

• Article 15. Bribery of national public officials

• Article 16. Bribery of foreign public officials and officials of public international organizations

• Article 17. Embezzlement, misappropriation or other diversion of property by a public official

• Article 18. Trading in influence

• Article 19. Abuse of functions

• Article 20. Illicit enrichment

• Article 21. Bribery in the private sector

• Article 22. Embezzlement of property in the private sector

Mr. Senu considered Chapter IV - International Cooperation (Covering articles 43-50), Chapter V - Asset Recovery (Covering articles 51-59). The discussion recognised the benefits which Chapter VI - Technical Assistance and information exchange (Covering articles 60-62); Chapter VII - Mechanism for Implementation (Covering articles 63-64) offered. Lastly, Chapter VIII - Final provision (Covering articles 65-71) was briefly discussed. 

It was recognised that UNCAC offered state parties who had signed to be part of these international laws an independent opportunity to use UNCAC’s instruments to better perform in their independent states but those states that have ratified the UNCAC have not effectively used                             UNCAC or vaguely used the law to improve domicile legislation performance. Nigeria has an excessive amount of legislation against corruption and an excessive amount of institutions and bodies in place to fight corruption but has failed to effectively enforce the rule of law against corruption. Nigeria has failed to reduce systemic corruption and failed to fight against factors connecting corruption to economic development, social justice, inequality and insecurity across the country. Notably, Boko Haram in northern Nigeria continues to be a threat.  

Nigeria signed the UNCAC on 9 December 2003 and ratified it on 14 December 2004. Nigeria deposited its instrument of ratification with the Secretary-General of the United Nations on 14 December 2004. Nigeria was reviewed for the first time in the fourth year of the first cycle in 2014.  This review focused on Chapter III – Criminalisation and Law Enforcement – and despite the second review cycle of 2016-2021 with focus to Chapter II articles 5-14 and 51-59 of the UNCAC there exists many questions to be addressed.  

Indeed, the conference held on Saturday 24 April 2021 by UVOBPI-TEAMCO members was without doubt remarkable and was designed with training sections to empower the team in their advocacy CSO work. This inspiring team looks forward to the next training conference that intends to cover the following heading: FROM NATIONAL TO STATE LOCAL TO COMMUNITY LEVELS with focus to procedures and processes, with aim to project realisation and how these would benefit at a local/community level in Badagry, Lagos’ communities, and Nigeria at large. Follows-up from pleasantries shared among the members of UVOBPI-TEAMCO are determined indeed.  

Who are the UVOBPI-TEAMCO and why should you join us? 

Visit UVOBPI-TEAMCO’s website at: https://www.thevoiceofbadagry.org/ to find out more about us.

For more about UVOBPI-TEAMCO CSO work with UNCAC, visit us at: https://uncaccoalition.org/anti-corruption-platforms/africa/nigeria/united-voice-of-badagry-people-initiative-uvobpi/ 

Why not email us at: [email protected] or [email protected] 

Appeal 

Appeal to Integral lawyers, judges and honourable men and women, youths, elites and ordinary members of society:

Insecurity in Nigeria is epidemic and it is good people in society who stand up against corruption and the injustices that emerge with it but if you take your stance against these, these insecurities will not continue to worsen. Corruption is systemic and is one of the major routes to many insecurities today not only in Nigeria but elsewhere in the world and developing countries such as Nigeria and others are most affected. Join us as we need your help, we cannot do this alone and without your support. 

Thank you! 

ANAMBRA 2021: Coalition of Civil Society Organizations Endorse Sen. Andy Uba

By Dansu Peter 

A coalition of civil society organisation,  under the auspices of Citizens Media Organization has endorsed former Senator, Andy Uba for the governorship election slated to be held later this year. 

The group made the declaration in a press statement signed by the trios of it Chairman, Comrade Larry suraj, the 

Secretary, Comrade ikechukwu albert

and the PRO, Comrade Ajibade samuel respectively. 

The group said it arrived at the decision to endorse the former Anambra South Senator, Uba, considering the enormity of the the task ahead of next Anambra State Governor, and who could be up to the task.

"Considering the task ahead for whoever will emerge as the Governor of Anambra by 2021, we have no doubt that it's only Senator Andy Uba who can face the challenges and face it squarely considering his antecedent and feats made both in politics, economic and social life. "

" Our decision was thoughtfully and fairly made considering other aspirants who have also signified interest to contest the election, but the seat of Anambra Governor needs a trusted and competent hand who could harness the potentials of the state for the gains of the good people of Anambra. And the only person who best fits the position is Senator Andy Uba. With Uba, we are very sure Anambra will be great again", the statement read in part. 

CALL FOR PANTAMI'S RESIGNATION: ATTEMPT TO DERAIL NIGERIA PROGRESS.

By News Proof 

The Civil Society Forum has been inundated with calls and messages regarding the devious, blackmailing and political plots ongoing to oust the Minister of Communication and Digital Economy, Sheik Isa Pantami over religious views he expressed as a young cleric. Worse still, a minority opinion asked the Minister to resign over unsubstantiated allegations of links to Al-queda and other Islamic terrorist groups.

These allegations are figments of the imagination of desperate interlopers whose fears we are here to reveal to the public.

As a young cleric, Sheik Isa Pantami like other devoted clerics sermonised in favour of their religious beliefs. The research available as at then prompted those beliefs. As time progresses and his educational pursuits increases, he stoutly stood for humanity through various efforts at ensuring peaceful religious coexistence and harmonious relationships amongst all peoples. Suffice to say that Sheik Isa Pantami grew from an Islamic cleric to becoming a global peace enabler he is today.

The truth of the matter is that the blackmailers are playing a script prepared by the enemies of Nigeria. The Honourable Minister is been attacked for the genuine reforms being championed by him in the fight against insecurity with the NIN initiative linking citizens phone numbers capable of identifying major criminals and their sponsors. Both as a private and public citizen the honourable minister had displayed rare patriotism in ensuring the correctness and accuracy of the most important data which confirms who a Nigerian citizen is. Going further, the compulsory NIN registration is capable of identifying economic looters, political brigands, bandits, insurgents, kidnappers, internet fraudsters and all criminals alike.

This initiative is been rejected by elements who are in the business of profiting through crimes against the nation.

The huge cry about #PantamiMustGo is an attempt to derail President Muhammodu Buharis government from resolving the insecurity problems bedeviling Nigeria and Nigerians.

The Civil Society Forum haven seen through the plots wish to say that any attempt by anybody, group or organizations at removing Sheik Pantami through the backdoor is a well orchestrated agenda at festering insecurity, corruption and social vices.

As concerned Nigerians, we insist that nothing must be allowed to derail the well focused plan of putting Nigerians on a database that can detect who we all are and what we claim to be.

We urge President Buhari to resist the unholy media trial against Sheik Pantami. We hold in our minds and that of majority Nigerians that the Minister's initiative is one of the major solutions to solving the problems currently faced by Nigerians.

We have elected to resist the vile minds and remove their venom against the nation.

Any movement against the Minister is anti Nigeria. We must be bold to say this and ensure that the peace of our nation is not sacrificed on the alter of religious affiliation or criminal alliance of few who are hell bent in continuing their national sabotage for personal enrichment.

We seek the understanding of Nigerians and the international community to know that many of Nigeria's problems are internal. Those preparing for the fall of the Buhari government should know that the sacrifices and diligence of the last 6 years have shown that no nation can be above her citizens. In ensuring development, every Nigerian must rise about self and be patriotic to measures and policies that can lead to greatness.

In asking Nigerians to see beyond the #PantamiMustGo orchestra, it is important to state that we have already began mobilization to shot the evil mission down.

We aver that the Minister of Communication and Digital Economy, Sheik Isa Pantami is doing a great service to Nigeria and deserves every encouragement for the completion of his efforts at ridding the nation of all crimes. No amount of intimidation can stop him from achieving success.

Finally, we are not unaware of subterranean plans to deploy blackmail, propaganda and protests against the Minister. We assure the entire public that they cannot succeed.

We will jointly support the government of President Buhari to end crimes in our nation.

We warn those unpatriotic hirelings to desist.

Nigeria is ours and we must protect our nation.

Pastor Adeboye apologises to Fashola over 'false allegation' his ministry paid fraudulent road contractor #151m

By News Proof 

Pastor Pastor E. A. Adeboye of the Redeemed Christian church of God

through his Pastor Nìyí Adebanjo, who petitioned the Senate on behalf of the church has tendered an unreserved apology to the Ministry for claiming that the the N151m was paid to the contractors between 2016 and 2018, report according to Punch Newspaper detailed. 

According to our source, the pastor also apologised to the Minister and the Ministry that the Church did not inform them before rehabilitating the road and for not doing proper enquiry before petitioning the Senate.

But the Minister of Works and Housing, Mr Babatunde Fashola, on Thursday, according to Punch explained how his Ministry paid N151m to the Cartil Construction Nigeria Limited for the rehabilitation of the Ife-Ifewara Road.

The Redeemed Christian Church of God had in a petition filed by Pastor Niyi Adebanjo on behalf of the General Overseer, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, and dated 9th February, 2021, accused the ministry of making payment to the tune of N151m to Cartil Construction Limited for the rehabilitation of the road which the church rehabilitated as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility.

He had alleged that the ministry paid the money between 2016 and 2018 to the contractor that abandoned the road which was actually reconstructed by the church at a cost of N181m

The RCCG therefore urged the Senate to direct Cartil Construction Limited to refund the money and ensure its payment to government coffer.

The church had said, “If anyone is to be reimbursed for the rehabilitation of the road; it should be to the RCCG and not the contractor.”

But Fashola told the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions on Thursday that the money was not paid between 2016 to 2018 to the contractors.

 

He explained that the contract for the road was awarded to Cartil Construction in December 2010 for N662m as a constituency project executed under the Ministry of Works; five years before the regime of the President, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retd.).

He said based on Section 36 of the Public Procurement Act, the contractor was entitled to 15 per cent as mobilisation fee.

He said the then minister first approved the payment of  N99.4m to Cartil Construction Limited as 15 per cent mobilisation fee in 2011

He said having moved to site, a second payment of N52m was made on the 29th of December, 2011,  bringing the total to N151m

Fashola said contrary to the RCCG claims, the ministry under him did not pay any money to the contractors between 2016-2018.

He said there was no proof that an unjust claim was made by the contractor or made by the ministry and that there was no basis for the petition.

He also said there was no evidence to back up claims that the funds were not released in 2011 to Cartil Construction Limited.

Fashola said, “The Ife-Ifewara Road is not a federal road. It is a state road within Osun State in the South-West Nigeria.

“It is a 6.3m wide single carriageway, 15km long with 1.5m earth shoulders on either side.”

Fashola therefore demanded an apology from the petitioner for making false claims, hence forcing the Senate to spend tax payers money to organise the public hearing.

Pastor Niyi Adebanjo, who petitioned the Senate on behalf of the RCCG, tendered an unreserved apology to the Ministry for claiming that the the N151m was paid to the contractors between 2016 and 2018.

The pastor also apologised to the Minister and the Ministry that the Church did not inform them before rehabilitating the road and for not doing proper enquiry before petitioning the Senate.

Adebanjo said, “I like to state very clearly that the core of this petition is not against the Ministry of Works and Housing.

“The basis for this petition is to call Nigerians to the corruption that is going on especially on road construction in this country.

“When Pastor E.A. Adeboye intervened, it was because his people called him. That road became a den of thieves and kidnappers. And when he was summoned, of course, we have a part to apologise for not going through proper procedure for the intervention.

“But the point being made is that Cartil Construction Nigeria Limited should be made to refund (money paid to it).

“We did a little to resolve this thing within the constituency itself, unfortunately we did not go further because of pieces of information that got to us.

“And on the basis of that we felt, erroneously though, that the best place for the society to hear us is here and that is why we came to this honourable Senate.

“Now as to whether certain funds were released after 2011, we do not have claims. What we got to know was that certain steps were taken.

“I would like to say with due respect to the Minister, in view of what we have heard today, that steps are being taken to deal with construction companies in this country that through the back door deny this nation resources that should be made available to do great things that will benefit the common man.”

He added, “There is no doubting the fact that the Ministry of Works deserves an apology from us and because the whole world is listening to us, I tender that apology unreservedly before this Senate Committee.

“However, I am saying that those things he pointed out we agree point blank that it was our omission and it is not going to reccur on our future dealings on our interventions any moment we decide to do it.

“So, Honourable Minister, on behalf of Pastor E.A. Adeboye, I like to apologise to you for whatever this has brought to the government under your watch.

“However that apology does not in any way remove the fact which is the core of this petition that Cartil Construction Nigeria Limited should be made to refund every single kobo collected.”

The Chairman of the Senate panel, Ayo Akinyelure, and other members of the committee including Senators Smart Adeyemi, James Manager and Sam Egwu, however commended the General Overseer of the RCCG, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, for the timely intervention on the road.

Source : Punch Newspaper