At a lively gathering in a popular relaxation center in Ogba, Lagos, the usual banter about current affairs and social media celebrities took an unexpected turn. The air was filled with chatter, drinks flowed, and laughter echoed across the space until one woman, clearly exasperated by the latest controversy involving Nigeria’s most flamboyant social media personality, Bob Risky, screamed, “Chai, this Bob Risky dey take risk sha!”

Her exclamation sparked a fresh wave of conversation about the controversial influencer, whose daring lifestyle and risky public behavior have become a topic of national debate. Bob Risky, real name, Idris Okuneye, has never been a stranger to hullabaloo, and in recent weeks, he has found himself at the center of even more serious legal and societal scrutiny. From gender identity discussions to allegations of financial misconduct, Bob Risky seems to live perpetually on the edge, and people are beginning to wonder just how far he can go before things spiral out of control.

The woman’s outburst in Ogba captured a sentiment shared by many Nigerians, both admirers and critics alike. Bob Risky’s lifestyle, filled with displays of luxury, flamboyant fashion, and unrestrained social media posts, seems to thrive on risk. He pushes boundaries, both in terms of cultural norms and legal limitations, constantly daring the public and authorities to challenge him.

The phrase “taking risks” is particularly apt when describing Bob Risky’s approach to fame. In a country as conservative as Nigeria, where traditional values run deep and laws governing behavior are strictly enforced, Bob Risky’s audacious public persona challenges societal expectations. His gender-fluid presentation, which includes cross-dressing and sometimes identifying as female, stirs both admiration and disdain in equal measure. Many wonder how he manages to walk such a precarious line without facing severe consequences, at least until recently.

The risks Bob Risky takes are no longer just about his image or identity; they now extend into legal territory. Presently, he has found himself at the center of a controversy following the leak of a voice note by fellow influencer Very Dark Man (VDM). In the leaked audio, Bobrisky in the leaked voice note alleges that be bribed some yet to be known officials of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) with N15m to delete a particular case from his case file when he was in the commission’s custody some months prior to his imprisonment, and in a similar vein heard saying that a certain “Godfather” connived with some officials of the Maximum and Mininum Custodial Centres, Kirikiri, Lagos State to  give him an apartment outside the custodial centre.Being an act that is out rightly against the law, the Federal Government, on Thursday, suspended the officers in charge of the Maximum and Minimum Custodial Centres, Kirikiri, Lagos State.

The voice note has not only raised concerns about Bobrisky’s deepening notoriety but has also reignited debates about the responsibility that comes with fame, particularly on social media platforms.

It is deeply concerning that Bob Risky, a highly scandalous individual, was reportedly granted the privilege of staying in accommodation outside the prison premises during his legal ordeal. Such preferential treatment raises serious questions about the fairness and integrity of the justice system, especially in a country where many ordinary citizens face harsh conditions while awaiting trial or serving time. This discrepancy highlights the troubling issue of inequality in how justice is administered, where influence and celebrity status appear to grant undue favors, undermining the core principle that justice should be blind and applied equally to all.

It was this perception of untouchability that likely prompted the woman at the relaxation center in Ogba to exclaim in disbelief, “This Bob Risky dey take risk sha!” The risks he takes go beyond self-expression, they now extend into legal, financial, and even moral territory.

For many young Nigerians, Bob Risky’s boldness is seen as a form of self-expression, a rejection of societal limitations. However, this admiration can come with a dangerous consequence: the emulation of a lifestyle that glorifies materialism, controversy, and a disregard for consequences. While it is important for individuals to express themselves freely, there is a need for young people to understand that not all risks are worth taking.

In fact, his latest troubles serve as a cautionary tale. His conduct, though bold, comes with significant challenges that could derail anyone who seeks to follow in his footsteps. Living a life based on controversy and risk-taking may bring short-term fame and attention, but it could also lead to long-term damage, both to one’s reputation and legal standing.

Throughout the annals of human history, there have been individuals whose extraordinary presence, courage, and commitment to justice stand out as rare gifts to humanity. These figures often emerge in times of profound social or political turmoil, sent by what many believe to be divine providence, to fight for the oppressed, challenge the status quo, and right the wrongs that seem insurmountable. One such individual in our time is the personality known as Very Dark Man, acronymically known as VDM, whose battle against injustice and advocacy for the downtrodden has earned him widespread admiration and respect.

What sets such individuals apart is their deep sense of purpose, their resilience in the face of opposition, and their seemingly unshakable moral compass. These qualities are not commonplace, nor do they emerge frequently. Indeed, personalities like Very Dark Man come at long intervals in the course of human history, and when they do appear, they represent a kind of moral lighthouse, guiding the masses through the fog of injustice, corruption, and oppression.

Many believe that personalities like Very Dark Man are not merely products of circumstance or random chance, but rather, that they are sent by God during critical periods in humanity’s journey. Their emergence is often seen as part of a divine plan, meant to awaken society to the injustices that have been allowed to fester for too long. In biblical history, figures like Moses, David, and Esther were called upon by God to deliver their people from oppression. Similarly, in modern times, we have seen leaders like Martin Luther King Jr., Nelson Mandela, and Mahatma Gandhi rise to confront systemic inequality and guide their people toward justice.

Very Dark Man belongs to this lineage of extraordinary individuals. His purpose is not self-serving; rather, it is grounded in a deep sense of responsibility to those who are often voiceless and marginalized. He fights not for personal gain or recognition, but because he believes, deeply, that justice must prevail, no matter the cost. This kind of commitment is rare, and it is what makes Very Dark Man a unique and powerful figure in today’s world.

Very Dark Man has made it his mission to fight against the entrenched systems of injustice that pervade our society. In a world where inequality seems to grow wider every day, where the rich get richer, and the poor are left to fend for themselves, his voice has become a clarion call for those who suffer in silence. Whether he is confronting political corruption, social oppression, or economic exploitation, Very Dark Man stands as a fearless advocate for the people.

His activism goes beyond mere rhetoric. He has shown time and again that he is willing to take on the powerful, even when doing so puts him at great personal risk. His fearlessness in the face of adversity inspires others to stand up and speak out, and his leadership has galvanized many to join the fight for a more just and equitable society. Very Dark Man’s work is not just a reflection of his personal bravery, but a testament to his unwavering belief in the possibility of a better world.

Throughout history, we have seen that societies in turmoil require strong and visionary leaders to guide them through their darkest hours. These leaders are often rare, appearing only when they are most needed. Very Dark Man is one such leader. His leadership is not marked by authoritarianism or self-interest, but by compassion, empathy, and a deep commitment to the common good.

In a world where many leaders have become disconnected from the struggles of the people, Very Dark Man’s approach is refreshing and much needed. He understands the suffering of the marginalized, and he uses his platform to amplify their voices. His leadership is rooted in the belief that justice is not a privilege for the few, but a right for all. This is what makes him a rare and invaluable figure in today’s landscape of social activism.

While Very Dark Man’s fight against injustice is deeply personal, it is not a fight that he can, or should, take on alone. Individuals like him, who are willing to take on the systems of power and privilege, need the support and encouragement of the people. They face immense opposition from those who benefit from maintaining the status quo, and without the backing of the masses, their fight becomes exponentially harder.

As a society, we have a responsibility to stand with Very Dark Man. His fight is not just his own—it is our collective fight. By supporting him, we are supporting the cause of justice, equality, and fairness. We are sending a message that we will not allow injustice to go unchecked, and that we are willing to fight for a better future for all.

Encouraging Very Dark Man also means providing him with the moral and emotional support he needs to continue his work. The weight of fighting against injustice can be immense, and even the strongest of leaders need to know that they are not alone. By standing with him, we are ensuring that his fight continues and that the possibility of a more just society remains within reach.

One of the most important aspects of personalities like Very Dark Man is the legacy they leave behind. Their work is not just about addressing the injustices of the present, it is about laying the foundation for a better future. Very Dark Man’s fight against oppression, corruption, and inequality will serve as a blueprint for future generations, showing them that it is possible to stand up against injustice, no matter how powerful the forces of oppression may seem.

His story, like those of the great leaders who came before him, will be remembered for generations to come. He will be remembered not just as a fighter for justice, but as a beacon of hope, someone who believed in the possibility of a better world and was willing to risk everything to make that vision a reality.

Very Dark Man is a rare and extraordinary figure, whose presence in our time is nothing short of a gift from God. His relentless fight for justice, his unwavering commitment to the oppressed, and his fearless leadership make him a beacon of hope in an often unjust world.

However, his fight is not one that he can undertake alone. We must rally behind him, offer our support, and amplify his voice. By encouraging Very Dark Man in his noble quest, we are not only standing with him, but we are also standing for justice, equality, and humanity.

In the end, personalities like Very Dark Man do not come around often, and when they do, they must be cherished, supported, and celebrated. Let us not miss this opportunity to stand alongside him as he continues to fight for a better, fairer world for all.

World Tourism Day, celebrated annually on September 27, is a moment for countries across the globe to reflect on the power of tourism as a tool for socio-economic growth and cultural exchange. For Nigeria, a country blessed with diverse landscapes, vibrant cultures, and historical heritage, this day should be more than just a celebration. It should serve as a wake-up call to harness the vast, untapped potential that lies within its tourism sector.

With a population exceeding 200 million and over 250 ethnic groups, Nigeria boasts a rich cultural mosaic that is unrivaled in many parts of the world. From the picturesque Obudu Mountain Resort in Cross River State to the mystical Ogbunike Caves in Anambra State, Nigeria is home to numerous natural and historical attractions that can compete with global tourism destinations. Yet, these sites remain underdeveloped and under promoted, losing out on the massive economic benefits that tourism could bring. As the world celebrates this day, it is imperative for Nigeria to look inward, identify these opportunities, and take deliberate steps toward maximizing its tourism sector.

One of Nigeria’s greatest assets in tourism lies in its geographical diversity. From the sprawling savannahs of the North to the lush rainforests in the South, Nigeria’s natural landscape is a treasure trove waiting to be explored. The northern region, for instance, is home to the ancient city of Kano, with its historic walls and centuries-old markets. The Durbar festival held annually in Kano is a visual spectacle that draws visitors from around the world. However, despite its cultural richness, northern Nigeria is still not a major player in the global tourism scene.

In the southeast, the Arochukwu Long Juju slave route in Abia State is a poignant reminder of Nigeria’s role in the transatlantic slave trade. The route leads to a dark tunnel once used for human trafficking, and it holds deep historical significance. Yet, it is rarely visited by Nigerians or international tourists due to poor maintenance and lack of awareness. Similar historical and cultural landmarks can be found across the country, but they continue to languish in obscurity.

Nigeria also has natural wonders like the Olumo Rock in Abeokuta, the Erin Ijesha Waterfalls in Osun State, and the Idanre Hills in Ondo State, all of which are visually stunning and culturally significant. These destinations, though popular among locals, are largely unknown outside Nigeria. Infrastructure issues such as poor road networks, inadequate lodging facilities, and limited international flights make access to these sites difficult for foreign tourists.

Tourism is a major economic driver in many parts of the world, contributing billions of dollars to national economies and creating millions of jobs. According to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), tourism contributed over $8.8 trillion to the global economy in 2019, employing around 330 million people. In Nigeria, however, the contribution of tourism to the economy remains marginal, accounting for less than 5% of the country’s GDP. This is a stark contrast to countries like South Africa, where tourism contributes nearly 9% to the national economy, or Kenya, where the sector is a major pillar of economic growth.

With Nigeria grappling with high unemployment rates and over-reliance on crude oil revenues, tourism offers a viable alternative for economic diversification. The sector has the potential to create jobs, particularly for young people, who make up a significant portion of Nigeria’s population. From tour guides and hospitality workers to artisans and cultural performers, the ripple effect of tourism could generate employment in multiple sectors.

Additionally, tourism can foster the development of local communities. For example, rural areas where natural attractions like waterfalls and wildlife reserves are located can benefit from increased tourism through infrastructure development, such as better roads, schools, and healthcare facilities. The rise in eco-tourism and cultural tourism globally means that people are increasingly seeking authentic experiences that take them off the beaten path. Nigeria is well-positioned to tap into this trend, as many of its attractions are located in rural and semi-urban areas that offer rich, immersive experiences for travelers.

To fully unlock the potential of tourism, there needs to be a robust partnership between the government and the private sector. The Nigerian government must prioritize tourism as a strategic industry and allocate sufficient resources for its development. This includes improving infrastructure, ensuring security at tourist sites, and creating enabling policies that will attract both local and foreign investment.

One area where the government can make a significant impact is in simplifying the visa process. Currently, the bureaucratic hurdles for obtaining a Nigerian visa can be daunting for international tourists. Countries like Rwanda and Kenya have seen a surge in tourist arrivals after introducing visa-on-arrival policies or e-visa platforms. Nigeria should adopt similar initiatives to make it easier for tourists to visit the country.

The private sector also has a critical role to play in tourism development. From building hotels and resorts to offering transportation services and tour packages, private businesses can drive growth in the tourism sector. Public-private partnerships (PPPs) should be encouraged, where the government provides the enabling environment, and the private sector brings the necessary investment. Tourism operators, travel agencies, and hospitality entrepreneurs must also take the initiative to market Nigeria as a top destination for both leisure and business travel.

One of Nigeria’s unique selling points is its vibrant cultural festivals, which take place throughout the year. Festivals like the Osun-Osogbo Festival, the Argungu Fishing Festival, and the Calabar Carnival have the potential to become global tourist magnets. The Calabar Carnival, for instance, is already regarded as “Africa’s Biggest Street Party,” attracting thousands of visitors every December. However, the promotion and management of these festivals need to be improved to draw even larger international audiences.

Partnerships with international cultural organizations and influencers can also help spotlight Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage on the global stage. Leveraging social media platforms, engaging travel bloggers, and collaborating with global tourism networks will help put Nigeria on the map as a must-visit destination.

Of course, no discussion about tourism in Nigeria would be complete without acknowledging the challenges. Issues like insecurity, poor infrastructure, and a lack of political will have held back the development of the tourism sector for years. The insecurity caused by insurgencies, kidnappings, and banditry in parts of the country has tarnished Nigeria’s image as a safe destination for travelers. The government must invest more in securing tourist sites and ensuring the safety of visitors.

Similarly, infrastructure development must be prioritized. Without good roads, reliable power supply, and modern amenities, even the most beautiful tourist destinations will remain inaccessible. The Federal Ministry of Works and Housing, in collaboration with state governments, must ensure that the necessary infrastructure is in place to support the tourism industry.

As the world marks World Tourism Day, Nigeria must seize this opportunity to reposition its tourism sector as a key driver of economic growth and cultural diplomacy. The time has come for Nigeria to look inward, recognize the wealth of opportunities within its borders, and take bold steps toward becoming a global tourism destination.

With the right investments, policies, and collaborations, Nigeria can unlock the untapped potential of its tourism sector, creating jobs, generating revenue, and preserving its rich cultural heritage for future generations. This World Tourism Day should mark the beginning of a renewed commitment to tourism in Nigeria, a commitment that will not only transform the sector but also uplift the entire nation.

President Bola Tinubu extends his heartfelt condolence to Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom state on the shocking passing of his beloved wife, Pastor Patience Umo Eno.

On behalf of the Federal Government, the President commiserates with the Eno family, the government, and the people of Akwa Ibom state during this grim time.

The President joins them in mourning the painful and profound loss of the state's First Lady, who has supported Governor Eno's administration.

The President affirms that Patience Eno, as the wife to a visionary governor and an ordained gospel minister, embodied humility, resilience, and loyalty.

President Tinubu acknowledges that through her 'Golden Initiative for All,' she demonstrated her passion for serving the people and residents of Akwa Ibom state with love, honesty, and dedication, leaving a positive impact that will continue to inspire future generations.

He trusts that her selfless service to improve the lives of women, children, and the vulnerable will forever remain an important part of Akwa Ibom’s history, a legacy that will continue to inspire and be appreciated by future generations.

President Tinubu commits the grieving family, friends, and relatives to the comfort of the eternal God, who is the source of life and holds the future of all creation in his hands. He expresses his trust in their resilience and strength during this challenging time, offering reassurance and support.

Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President
(Information & Strategy)

A serving Minister was quoted as saying, that the crisis in the country is being sponsored by those who wish to share power with the President. To me, there is nothing wrong with power sharing. It is only in a country like our own that it is a sin to lose an election. Much as it is wrong for the opposition to want to destroy the country because they are not in government, there is nothing bad in accommodating them in the government.

A coalition government is in no position an inferior government nor illegitimate. Power sharing is good for democracy. It helps to reduce the possibility of conflict between social groups. Power sharing makes people dependent and responsible. It is essential to avoid violent conflicts, tyranny of the majority and ensure political stability. Democratic rule and power sharing have close links. Power sharing is an integral component of the spirit of democratic rule. It is highly applicable in a diverse society as ours. Let’s face it, a united Nigeria is still a dream. Ethnicity is still the rule here, and if power sharing will help bring about progress and unity, let’s adopt it. Monopoly of power by group, a tribe, a political party, will lead to envy hatred, disunity and jealousy, no matter how that party got to power, even if they bought their way to power.

In some countries it is called coalition. In the first Republic we called it alliance, in the second Republic we called it accord.

In his inaugural address on May 29 last year, President Bola Tinubu GCFR, declared, “Today, Fate and Destiny join together to place the torch of human progress in our very hands. We dare not let it slip.

We lift high this torch so that it might shine on every household and in every heart that calls itself Nigerian. We hold this beam aloft because it lights our path with compassion, brotherhood, and peace. May this great light never EXTINGUISH.

Our administration shall govern on your behalf but never rule over you. We shall consult and dialogue but never dictate. We shall reach out to all but never put down a single person for holding views contrary to our own.

We are here to further mend and heal this nation, not tear and injure it.

In this vein, may I offer a few comments regarding the election that brought us to this juncture. It was a hard-fought contest. And it was also fairly won. Since the advent of the Fourth Republic, Nigeria has not held an election of better quality.

The outcome reflected the will of the people. However, my victory does not render me any more Nigerian than my opponents. Nor does it render them any less patriotic.

They shall forever be my fellow compatriots. And I will treat them as such. They represent important constituencies and concerns that wisdom dare not ignore”.

I remember in the first republic that there was an alliance between National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC) AND ACTION GROUP. There was also an alliance between Northern People’s Congress (NPC) and Chief Ladoke Akintola’s Nigerian National Democratic Party (NNDP).

While at Olofin Anglican Grammar School in Idanre in Ondo state in 1964, I remember the first time I saw Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s wife, Chief Hannah Dideolu Awolowo (25 November 1915 – 19 September 2015) was when she came to Idanre, my hometown, in company of Chief Michael Okpara (NCNC), the then Premier of the Eastern Region, for a political rally. Their alliance then was called United Progressive Grand Alliance (UPGA).

The alliance between NPC and NNDP, transformed into what was known then as the NNA. That alliance produced the following as Ministers on March 31, 1965. They were Mr. M.T. Mbu(Minister of State in the Ministry of Defence, Navy), Alhaji Nuhu Bamali (Minister of State in the Ministry of External Affairs), Mr. Jaja Nwachukwu (Minister of State in the Ministry of Finance, Alhaji Usman Maitambari( Minister of State, Transport), Alhaji Ibrahim Tako) Minister of State, Defence, Army), Alhaji Hashim Adaji(Minister of State, Works), Mr. T.E. Orodi (Minister of State, Lagos Affairs), Chief H.O. Davies (Minister of State, Industries), Chief A. Akerele( Minister of State, Information), Alhaji Abdul Rasaq(Minister of State, Transport) and Mr. D. Ibekwe, Minister of State, External Affairs).

Others were Alhaji Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa (Prime Minister and External Affairs), Alhaji Muhammadu Ribadu (Defence), Chief Festus Okotie-Eboh(Finance), Alhaji Shehu Shagari(Internal Affairs), Alhaji Mahammadu Inuwa Wada(Works), Alhaji Zanna Bukar Dipcharima(Transport), Mr. Raymond Njoku(Communications), Dr. Kingsley O. Mbadiwe(Trade), Mr. Jaja Wachukwu (Aviation), Chief Adeniran Ogunsanya (Housing and Surveys), Chief A.M.A. Akinloye (Industries), Chief Ayo Rosiji(Information), Mr. R.A. Akinjide(Education), Mr. Adeleke Adedoyin(Labour), Mr. Alade Lamuye (Natural Resources and Research), Alhaji Yusufu Maitama Sule 9Mines and Power, Alhaji Waziri A. Ibrahim(Economic Development), Dr. T.O. Elias (Attorney-General and Justice), Dr. M.A. Majekodunmi(Health) and Chief J.C. Obande (Establishments).

Still fresh in memory was the NPN-NPP accord under a Presidential System of Government.

On August 9, 1979 the then Chief Justice of the Federation, Sir Darnley Arthur Alexander (28 January 1920-10 February 1989) GCON, who was born in Castries, Saint Lucia in the Caribbean but came to Nigeria in 1957, on the invitation of the Premier of the Western Region, Chief Obafemi Awolowo GCFR, constituted elections tribunals that would give judgments on various petitions that may arise on the Senate, House of Representatives, Gubernatorial and State Assembly elections. He acted on the electoral decree 1977. The tribunals were for Imo, Gongola, Lagos and Kaduna zones.

For Imo zone, Justice Alexander named Honourable Justices A. A. Adeoba(chairman), F.I. E. Ukattuh and A.A. Ononuju as members. For Gongola zone Honourable Justices D.E.Y. Aghahowa (Chairman), M.U. Anisiobi and Alhaji Garba Alfa Tarfan as members while for Lagos zone Honourable Justices A. Allagoa, A. Desalu and A. O. Ejiwunmi were named. Kaduna zone included Honurable Justice S.E.J. Ecoma(Chairman), honourable Alhaji Bashir Sambo and Mr. S. A. Ibiyeye as members.

On the same day of August 9, 1979, Justice Alexander constituted the election tribunal on the Presidential election. Members of the tribunal were Justice Boonyamin Oladiran Kazeem (Chairman) while Justice A.I. Aseme and Justice A.B. Wali were members.

Justice Kazeem was born in Lagos on August 29, 1922. He had his education at the Government School, Lagos, Christ Missionary Society Grammar School, Lagos and the University of London, England. He was called to the Bar and as clerk, 1942-1950, crown counsel, 1954-1959, senior crown counsel, 1959-1961, principal crown counsel, 1961-1963, legal adviser, 1963-1964, deputy solicitor-general, 1964-1965, solicitor-general general and permanent secretary, 1965-1967, judge High Court, Lagos, 1967-1976, appointed judge, Federal Court of Appeal, 1977; member, Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, member and Nigerian Society of International Law.

Justice Kazeem was later elevated to the Court of Appeal and to the Supreme Court. On August 11, 1979, the Senate and Presidential elections were held throughout the country.

On August 17, 1979, the Federal Electoral Commission declared Alhaji Usman Aliyu Shehu Shagari as the winner of the Presidential Election.

In a two-page prepared statement read at a Press conference in Lagos by the returning officer, Mr. Fredrick Menkiti, the FEDECO said Alhaji Usman Aliyu Shehu Shagari GCFR (25 February 1925- 25 February 1925), satisfied the provision of section 34 (A), subsection (1)(C)(1) of the Electoral Decree No. 73 of 1977 by scoring the highest number of votes cast at the election. I attended the declaration on that day at Onikan, Lagos, almost forty-five years ago.

Mr. Menkiti declared “He also satisfied the provision of subsection (1) (c) (11) of the same section. He has not less than one-quarter of the votes cast at the election in each of at least two-thirds of all the states in the Federation.”

“The Electoral Commission considers that in absence of any legal explanation of guidance in the Electoral Decree, it has no alternative than to give the phrase at least two thirds of all the states in the Federation—in section 34(A) subsection 1 (c) 11 of the Electoral Decree the ordinary meaning which applies to it.

“In the circumstances, the candidate who scores at least one-quarter of the votes cast in 12 states and one-quarter of two-thirds, that is, at least one-sixth of the votes cast in the 13th state satisfies the requirement of the subsection.”

This is the full text of the Federal Electoral Commission’s statement on the presidential election on that day:

“I certify that having carried out my duties and the formalities required by the Electoral Decree 1977, the result of the poll carried out in the Federation on August 11, 1979, is as follows in order of the number of votes each candidate received: Candidate ALHAJI SHEHU SHAGARI 5, 698,857, Candidate CHIEF OBAFEMI AWOLOWO 4,916,651, Candidate DR. NNAMDI AZIKIWE 2,822,523, Candidate ALHAJI AMINU KANO 1,732,113, Candidate ALHAJI WAZIRI IBRAHIM 1,686,489.

Alhaji Shehu Shagari has satisfied the provision of Section 34 A subsection (i) (c) (i) of Electoral Decree No 13 of 1977, that is to say, he has the highest number of votes at the election.

From the details of the state-by-state results, this candidate has also satisfied the provision of sub-section (i) c) (ii) of the same election in each of at least two-thirds of all states in the Federation.

The Federal Electoral Commission considers that in the absence of any legal explanation or guidelines in the electoral decree, it has no alternative than to give the phrase “at least two-thirds of all states in the Federation” in section 34a subsection 1 (c) (ii) of the electoral decree the ordinary meaning which applies to it.

In the circumstances, the candidate who scores at least one-quarter of the votes cast in 12 states and one-quarter of two-thirds, that is, at least one sixth of the votes cast in the 13th state satisfies the requirement of the sub-section.

Accordingly, Alhaji Shehu Shagari GCFR is hereby declared elected President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria”.

After the declaration, Chief Obafemi Awolowo GCFR (25 February 1925- 9 May 1987) of the UPN went to the election tribunal headed by Justice Kazeem, who rejected his request.

Justice Alexander retired on August 21. The then Military Head of State, General Olusegun Obasanjo GCFR, invited Justice Atanda Fatai Williams (22 October1918-10 April 2002), then a Justice of the Supreme Court, to a meeting at the seat of power at Dodan Barracks, Lagos. At the meeting, Obasanjo offered Fatai-Williams the office of the Chief Justice of the Federation.

In his memoirs, FACES, CASES AND PLACES, published in 1983, Justice Fatai Williams claimed that the offer “was totally unexpected, and, for the first time in my life, I was at a loss for words”, adding that General Obasanjo “watched my discomfiture with relish and delight.”

Chief Awolowo’s petition finally ended in the Supreme Court which endorsed FEDECO’s declaration on September 26, 1979, just five days before the inauguration of Alhaji Shehu Shagari as the President. The case was SUIT NO SC62/1979.

Justice Fatai Williams was assisted in his ruling by Justice Mohammed Bello, Justice Mohammed Uwais, Justice Chike Idigbe and Justice Gabriel Ayo Irekefe. Justice Andrew Otutu Obaseki (11 June 1926- 13 July 2017) partially disagreed with the majority judgment while Justice Kayode Eso (18 September 1925-16 November 2012) supported Chief Awolowo’s position.

Addressing a press conference after the FEDECO declaration in Lagos which I also attended, Alhaji Shehu Shagari said “I extend my hands of friendship to them and ask them to join me in the task of building a united, prosperous and virile nation of which we can all be justly proud. We need an atmosphere of friendship amongst all Nigerians. I believe that if our nation is to be truly great, we must come together as a family to solve our common problems. After all, the objectives of all the five political parties are similar. So let us work together in harmony towards the fulfilment of these objectives”.

Thereafter his party, the NPN struck an accord with the NPP of Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe (16 November 1904- 11 May 1996).

It was this accord that made it possible for Dr. Joseph Wayas of the NPN to be elected Senate President on October 9, 1979. He defeated the former Chief Judge of Bendel state, Justice F.O.M. Atake of the UPN by 53 to 42 votes. Dr. Wayas was nominated by Dr. Sola Saraki of the NPN (Ilorin/Asa) and seconded by Senator Garba Matta of NPP(Pankshin/Mangu/Kanam). Senator Atake was nominated by Senator E.I. Akpata of UPN (Bendel Central) and was seconded by Alhaji Idrisa Kadi of the GNPP (Borno North-Central).

The accord also enabled Senator John Wash Pam of the NPP to defeat Alhaji Sabo Barkin Zuwo of the PRP by 51 votes to 43 votes to become deputy Senate President. Senator John Wash Pam was nominated by Senator Jaja Nwachukwu, NPP (Aba) and was seconded by Senator Uba Ahmed—NPN (Bauchi South East), while Alhaji Ahmed Danbata of the PRP (Kano Central) nominated Senator Sabo Barkin Zuwo of the PRP and was seconded by Senator David Oke of the UPN (Ondo West).

In the election for the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mr. Edwin Ume Ezeoke of the NPP(Nnewi) defeated Mr. Hamza M. Ngadiwa of the GNPP(Borno) by 245 to 201 votes. Chief Ezeoke was nominated by Mr. Yunusa Kaltungo of the NPN (Tangale-Waja South) and seconded by Lieutenant Colonel(rtd) P.C. Amadi of the NPP (Owerri North). Mr. Ngadiwa was nominated Dr. Gordon J. Idang of the UPN (Etinam II) and seconded by Mr. M.A. Olukoya—UPN(Ijebu-Ode).

For the post of deputy speaker, Alhaji Idris Ibrahim, NPN(Minna) defeated Mr. Faji Fajobi of the UPN(Ekiti South) by 244 to 201votes. Colonel(rtd) Amadi (Owerri North) nominated Alhaji Idris Ibrahim while Mr. Kaltungo seconded his nomination. Alhaji Sidi Alli of the PRP(Kano–Danbatta) nominated Mr. Fajobi and was seconded by Mr. Olaiya Fagbamigbe of the UPN(Akure).

All the elections were conducted by the then Clerk of the National Assembly, Alhaji Gidado Idris GCON.

On October 18, 1979, Presidential Shagari submitted thirty-three ministerial nominees to the Senate, presided over by Dr. Joseph Wayas (21 May 1941 – 30 November 2021). Four of the nominees were Nigerian Peoples Party (NPP)members. They were Chief Paul Unongo (Benue), Professor Ishaya Audu (Kaduna), Chief Ademola Thomas (Lagos) and Chief Mrs Janet Akinrinade (Oyo).

Apart from the Presidency at that time, the NPN had seven governors out of nineteen namely Alhaji Shehu Kangiwa(Sokoto), Chief Melford Okilo(Rivers), Alhaji Awwal Ibrahim(Niger), Alhaji Adamu Attah(Kwara), Dr. Clement Isong(Cross Rivers), Mr Apar Aku(Benue), Alhaji Abubakar Tatari Alli (Bauchi) while UPN had five governors—Chief Bisi Onabanjo(Ogun), Chief Michael Adekunle Ajasin (Ondo), Chief Bola Ige(Oyo), Alhaji Lateef Jakande (Lagos) and Chief Ambrose Ali(Bendel). NPP had three governors— Chief Sam Mbakwe (Imo), Chief Jim Nwobodo (Anambra) and Mr. Solomon Lar (Plateau). The GNPP had two governors—Alhaji Abubakar Barde(Gongola) and Alhaji Goni(Borno). The PRP had two governors— Alhaji Abubakar Rimi(Kano) and Alhaji Balarabe Musa (Kaduna).

Even in the Senate elections, the NPN had 36 seats, UPN-28, NPP—16, GNPP—8 and PRP—7. In the House of Representatives NPN had 168, UPN—111, NPP—79, PRP—47 and GNPP—-44.

The following Senators were elected then—Prince Onyeabo Obi, Dr. Offia Nwali, Chief B.C. Okwu, Chief N.N. Anah and Mr. Isaiah N. Ani(Anambra)—-NPP; Alhaji A.D. Rufai, Alhaji Ibrahim Dimis, Alhaji Ibrahim Jalo Waziri, Alhaji Abdulkadir Yelwaji Saleh and Mr. Uba Ahmed(Bauchi)—NPN; Mr. D.O. Dafinone, Mr. Bardi Joe(both of NPN), Chief John Umolu, Chief E.O. Akpata and Justice Frankly O. Atake(UPN)—-Bendel; Mr. Andrew Abogede, Chief J.S. Tarka, Mr. Suemo Chia, Mr. B.A. Ebute and Colonel Ahmadu Ali (NPN)—Benue; Alhaji Idrisa Kadi, Mr Bukar Sanda, Mr. Jafaru Manga and Mr. Umaru Lawan Bama (GNPP) and Alhaji G. Lawan (UPN)—Borno; Mr. George Daniel and Prince Joseph Ansa(GNPP), Mr. Victor Akpan, Mr. Donald Etiebet and Dr. Joseph Wayas(all of the NPN)—-Cross River.

Pastor Luka Zanyazing, Mr. Bitrus B. Kajal, Alhaji Mahmud Waziri(GNPP), Mr. Iliya Audu(NPN) and Mr. Gayus Gilama(UPN)—Gongola; Mr. Emeka P. Echeruo, Dr. Elijah E. Emezie, Dr. Jaja Nwachukwu, Chief Tony Anyanwu and Mr. Simeon Ojukwu(NPP)—Imo; Alhaji Abba Ali, Mr. Jacob Madawaki and Alhaji Yusuf Ali(NPN), Mr. Bello Bakori and Alhaji Ibrahim Barau(PRP); Alhaji Adamu Gaya, Alhaji Ahmed Zakari, Alhaji Hamisu Musa, Alhaji Usman A. Dambata and Alhaji Sabo B. Zuwo(PRP)—Kano; Alhaji Isa Abonyi Obaro, Mr. Aliyu Mohamadu Gan and Dr. Olusola Saraki(NPN); Mr. Justus Olu Olabode and Mr. C.O. Adebayo(UPN); Alhaji Sikiru Shitta-Bey, Dr. Femi Ayantuga, Alhaji M.A.O. Abiru, Mr. Abayomi Durosinmi and Mr. Adeyiga Ajai(UPN)—Lagos; Alhaji Abubakar Magaji, Alhaji Jubrin Salihu, Alhaji Ibrahim Kolo, Alhaji Abdullahi Mangu and Colonel Garba Dada Paiko(NPN)—Niger state.

Mr. Ladega Daniel Adetola, Mr. Oyero Kunle, Mr. S.O. Sogbein, Chief J.A.O. Adebiyi and Mr. A.A. Adesanya(UPN)—Ogun; Chief E.K. Ogunleye, Mr. Michael Onukun, Professor D.O. Oke, Mr. Ayo Fasanmi and Professor S.A. Akintoye(UPN)—Ondo; Chief Adeleke Ayoola, Dr. Christopher Ilori, Mr. Ademola Adegoke, Dr. Christopher Adeoye and Mr. Olalere Adesina(UPN)—-Oyo; Mr. Abubakar Ibrahim, Mr. Garba Matta, Mr. John Wash Pam, Mr. George Hookwap and Mr. Muhammadu Musa(NPP)—Plateau; Mr. P.J. Ella and Dr. Obi Wali(NPP); Dr. O. Eberewariye, Mr. C.N. Nunije and Mr. Amatari Zuofa(NPN); Mr. Otto Bugundu, Mr. Haruna Muza, Alhaji Garuba Gada, Alhaji Hassan Zuru and Alhaji Garba Kware(NPN)—-Sokoto.

The domination of NPN in 1979 was not in doubt. But for reasons best known to Alhaji Shehu Shagari, the then President, he decided to go into partnership with NPP. He was aware the Presidential Constitution does not allow for partnership or alliance.

Since 1999 to date, no President has ever accommodated members of other parties in government, although some were appointed to government on individual recognition and not as party members. Late Chief Bola Ige, the present Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Chief Nyesom Wike and others, are examples.

In Nigeria, if you lose an election, you are nothing but an orphan. The winner takes all policy as contained in our current Constitution will not bring about the desired unity. It is harmful. No political party or group or tribe or association can do it alone.

Diversity is our strength; unity is our power.

Japan is urging its citizens to leave Lebanon and has decided to prepare military flights for their possible evacuation, the government said Friday.

Israeli bombing has killed hundreds of people this week in Lebanon, particularly in Hezbollah strongholds while the militant group has retaliated with rocket barrages.

“We’re currently checking the safety of Japanese citizens living in Lebanon, as well as urging them to leave the country while regular commercial flights remain in operation”, chief cabinet secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi said Friday morning.

Hours later, the defence ministry said air force planes had been ordered to go to Jordan and Greece to be on stand-by in case Japanese nationals need to be transported out of the region.

The C-2 transport aircraft would be used to evacuate around 50 Japanese citizens currently in Lebanon, media outlets including Kyodo News said, citing unnamed government sources.

Yoko Kamikawa, Japan’s foreign minister, said Wednesday that Tokyo is “strongly concerned about the escalation of tensions between Israel and Hezbollah”.

Japan, she added, “strongly urges” all parties to “exercise the utmost restraint to avoid further escalation”.

Israel has rejected a push by allies for a 21-day ceasefire in Lebanon and has vowed to keep fighting Hezbollah militants.

AFP

The Edo election has confirmed what every discerning Nigerian knows: the Mahmoud Yakubu-led INEC is a fraud with no moral fibre to conduct free, fair and credible elections. If I were Asue Ighodalo, the latest victim of Nigeria’s soulless electoral mafia, I will not go to court. The matter will be settled on the streets of Edo. If that is what those inclined to being politically correct call anarchy, so be it. Truth be told, unless and until Nigerians show the capacity to resist the malfeasance of INEC and their enablers on the streets, not in courts, this impunity will not stop.

I had very instructive discussions with two A-list Nigerian politicians before and after the Edo State governorship election; the first being on Wednesday, three days before the poll. Both men have held positions of responsibility in government both at the state and federal levels.  

The first politician dismissed the optimism of those who believed that given the pedigree of the 18 candidates and sophistication of the Edo electorate, the odds favoured the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Dr. Asue Ighodalo.

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), he was unequivocal that the result of the election had already been written. “I don’t know why Nigerians are so naïve. They don’t seem to know what they are up against. Which election are they talking about? The same election which result had already been written?” he asked.

That was incredulous. I reminded him how the Edo electorate stepped up to the plate in the 2020 governorship election. He riposted that times have changed and INEC has become more brazen, emboldened by the unscrupulousness of the new kids on the leadership block.

We left it at that, but I hoped to prove him wrong. It turned out on Saturday that he was spot on and I was wrong. On Sunday, at exactly 2.33 pm, when INEC’s deviousness was on full parade, he sent me a text message: “I told you.”

Earlier on Sunday, at exactly 9.37 am, the second politician called to lament. What he said was spine-chilling. “Have you seen what is happening in Edo? These guys have become so brazen. This is unbelievable. What this means is that anyone contesting elections in Nigeria today will be doing so at his own risk.” He was hoping to run for the governorship of his state in 2027. Not anymore after the Edo electoral heist by the APC, he said.

None of them is from Edo. So, they had no dog in the fight, so to speak. But as stakeholders, they are as worried as every other well-meaning Nigerian. But I am more worried now because of what they said.

Before now, the risk we faced as a result of the insufferable duplicity of INEC was voter apathy. Over the years, as people came to the realization that their votes never counted, voter enthusiasm waned.

According to INEC records, only 28.63 per cent of all eligible voters participated in the 2023 Presidential and National Assembly elections. That was a new low in what has become a steady decline in the turnout of voters during elections. For instance, while as in 2011, voter turnout was an impressive 53.7 per cent, it dropped to 43.7 per cent in 2015 and 34.75 per cent in 2019.

After the 2023 elections, it was apparent that the voter apathy will intensify and the Edo governorship election where only about 22 per cent of the 2,629,025 registered voters voted has confirmed that. One would have thought that such embarrassing statistics will make the electoral umpire have a rethink. No! Instead of thinking of how to clamber out of the putrid hole of electoral malfeasance, the hardened enablers of electoral fraud are still digging.

Now, the consequence stares us in the face. Even politicians no longer have faith in INEC and if things remain the way they are, no credible Nigerian will waste his time and resources contesting elections again. The implication is that going forward, certificate forgers, age cheats, drug barons and sundry fraudsters will have the electoral field all to themselves.

The Edo election has confirmed what every discerning Nigerian knows: the Mahmoud Yakubu-led INEC is a fraud with no moral fibre to conduct free, fair and credible elections.

But by this brazenness, INEC has also finally overreached itself. As the legendary Chinua Achebe said in his book, A Man of the People, Yakubu now epitomizes that vile character, Josiah, the local shopkeeper, who tricked a blind beggar and stole his walking stick. As one of the villagers said, “Josiah has taken away enough for the owner to notice.” In the same vein, Yakubu and the INEC gang have crossed a line with the conduct of the Edo poll and longsuffering Nigerians have noticed.

Already, director of the Abuja school of social and political thought, Dr. Sam Amadi, has called for the disbandment of INEC as presently constituted, insisting that evidence abounds the electoral umpire was to blame for every bad election conducted in the country.

I agree in toto! And I make bold to say that the APC candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo, didn’t win last Saturday’s Edo governorship election. He lost woefully to the PDP candidate, Asue Ighodalo, no matter what the fraudulent INEC says. And this is not a speculation. Results announced at the polling booths confirm Ighodalo’s victory to the eternal shame of those who toy with the sovereign will of the people. What INEC did was a perpetuation of the electoral fraud that has made Nigeria a laughing stock in the comity of democratic nations.

If you are still in doubt, consider the fact that all the accredited civil society organizations (CSOs) that observed the poll have rejected the result, insisting that it lacks integrity. The problem, as it has always been the case, started at the point of result collation from the ward, local government to the state level, which flew in the face of the Electoral Act 2022.

A coalition of civil society groups, including Advocacy for Quality Leadership and Health Awareness Foundation; Grassroots Development and Peace Initiative; Citizens Rights and Leadership Awareness Initiative, etc., alleged on Sunday that INEC used two sets of result sheets — one used in the field and another that favoured the APC – during the collation in specific senatorial districts.

The Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room and some of its accredited member organisations, including Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD-West Africa), Yiaga Africa, Kimpact Development Initiative (KDI), Nigerian Women Trust Fund (NWTF), and TAF Africa, were even more scathing in their report.

In a statement on Monday, they noted that while as “the voting process was concluded in a relatively peaceful atmosphere, the results collation process in some LGAs were not peaceful and did not meet electoral integrity standards.”

Concerned that the Electoral Act and INEC guidelines on collation were wilfully compromised, particularly in Egor, Ikpoba Okha, Oredo, Esan West and Ovia South-West LGAs, they said: “Our observation of the collation process shows that it was neither transparent nor opened to representatives of the various candidates in some cases. In addition, it lacks transparency in the application of the provision of the Electoral Act and the INEC Guidelines on over-voting and cancellation of results from polling units.”

Bemoaning the over-voting that was reported from more than 370 polling units across the State, they returned a damning verdict: “It is our observation that the Edo State Governorship election 2024 failed to fulfil the requirement of the conduct of credible elections, and again, raises questions about election credibility in Nigeria. As with recent polls, INEC’s ability and willingness to conduct credible elections in Nigeria remains questionable.”

The big elephant in the room has always been collation and Yakubu knows. As a history professor, he is most likely aware of the admonition of the Soviet dictator, Joseph Stalin, to his party apparatchik in 1923 thus: “I consider it completely unimportant who in the party will vote, or how; but what is extraordinarily important is this — who will count the votes, and how” because, “Those who vote decide nothing. Those who count the vote decide everything.” The devil in Nigeria’s elections is always in the counting.

So, INEC allowed the electorate to vote in Edo and then willfully manipulated the counting to decide the “winner.” What is even more worrying is the impunity. For instance, as at 8:40 am on Sunday, results from 4455 out of the 4,519 polling units where elections were held – 98.58 per cent – had been successfully uploaded on the INEC Result Viewing Portal (IREV), which means that Nigerians knew as a fact who won the election. Yet, bypassing its own portal, the self-same INEC had the audacity to collate results from only God knows where that was totally at variance with what was uploaded.

Those who want to be diplomatic have called for calm, asking those holding the short end of the electoral stick to follow due process in seeking redress.

Due process would mean going to court. That will be foolhardy because it is another layer of the fraud. As Mr. Jibrin Samuel Okutepa, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), noted recently, “No matter the volumes of evidence, the judiciary appears to have taken stand and seems to be siding with the people who have no regard and respect for the sovereignty of the people.”

To be sure, no petitioner can successfully sidestep the daunting legal banana peels starting from dubious concepts of demonstration of documents, dumping of documents and calling of agents polling unit by polling unit, to the requirement that certified true copies of public documents must be tendered by the makers and the new, albeit impossible proviso that no subpoenaed witness can testify unless his or her frontloaded statements on oath are filed along with the petitions within 21 days.

Here, Okutepa’s advice, for me, suffices. “It is my proposal to all ‘losers’ of elections in Nigeria not to waste time and resources to file election petitions because it is easier for an elephant to go through the eyes of the needle than for anyone who was robbed of victories in our elections to get immediate remedies and electoral justice.”

If I were Asue Ighodalo, the latest victim of Nigeria’s soulless electoral mafia led by Prof Mahmoud Yakubu, I will not go to court. The matter will be settled on the streets of Edo. If that is what those inclined to being politically correct call anarchy, so be it. Truth be told, unless and until Nigerians show the capacity to resist the malfeasance of INEC and their enablers on the streets, not in courts, this impunity will not stop.

UNITED Nations Secretary General, Antonio Guterres, as usual, told us what we already know. On Wednesday, September 25, 2024, he announced that: “Hell is breaking loose in Lebanon”. But, sadly, he is behind the news because hell is not breaking, it has already broken loose in the Palestine, especially in the Gaza Strip, and has merely expanded its occupation into Lebanon.

Guterres should know this because 220 UN staff in Gaza along with 174 of my colleagues in the journalism profession, have already been despatched from the hell that is Gaza.

Then he made a Freudian slip. As part of his suggestion to stop the war, he declared that the Lebanese state “must have full control of its weapons” throughout the country. He added: “We support all efforts to strengthen the Lebanese Armed Forces.”

What the UN chief is saying is that Hezbollah, the Lebanese party Israel claims it is fighting, should be disarmed. So, in whose interest will this be? In that of the Lebanese people who are being subjected to the type of genocide going on in the Palestine, or Israel which, without Hezbollah, would annex Lebanon as it did to East Jerusalem, or occupy it as it is occupying the Palestine and the Syrian Golan Heights?

This is not a theoretical conception as it has occurred twice. Israel had in 1982 invaded Lebanon in the name of cross-border pursuit of Palestinian fighters. This, in 1985, became a full-blown war in which it seized many parts of Lebanon, including its capital, Beirut. Although Israel later withdrew, but for 15 years, it continued to occupy parts of Lebanon which it called its “security zone”. It was forced to leave on May 24, 2000.

Then, six years later, it again invaded Lebanon, this time from July 12, 2006 to August 14, 2006. However, it could not continue its occupation due to the armed resistance of Hezbollah which had come to replace the collapsed Lebanese military. In other words, but for Hezbollah, Lebanon would have been another Gaza or West Bank under Israeli occupation with settlers from Europe building illegal settlements.

Gueterres is supposed to be a peace maker. But the mind-set of a peace maker should be to work for an immediate ceasefire, not advocate the disarming of one side of the conflict.

The Gueterres position of disarming Hezbollah does not tally with that of Lebanon which sees the Israeli attacks as a blatant violation of its sovereignty and human rights.

Mohammad Najib Azmi Mikati, President of Lebanon’s Council of Ministers, said Lebanon is the “victim of an electronic cyber aggression and of an air and maritime aggression that can turn into a ground aggression and can become an all-out regional war”.

US President Joe Biden, French President Emmanuel Macron along with Japan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates issued a joint statement saying: “We call for an immediate 21-day ceasefire across the Lebanon-Israel border to provide space for diplomacy towards the conclusion of a diplomatic settlement.”

It seems to me a matter of common sense that since the Israeli War in Palestine is linked with that in Lebanon, a ceasefire on all fronts is what is required. The question is: what happened to the UN Security Council, UNSC, June 2024 ceasefire resolution on the war in Gaza? Fourteen of the 15-Member UNSC had passed that resolution which the USA guaranteed Israel would obey, but the latter said the USA was talking nonsense.

So, the issue is not a ceasefire; the fact is that Israel operates outside international laws, resolutions and conventions because it has the solid backing of the USA. It gets away with whatever actions it carries out, including genocide. All attempts over the decades to make Israel obey international court rulings and UN resolutions have been foiled by the USA. The latter has used its Veto in the UN 85 times, 47 of them were to shield Israel from international resolutions, charges of crimes against humanity and genocide.

Coincidentally, the renewed war in Lebanon is coming when the world is discussing the expansion of the UNSC to accommodate more permanent members. The USA, claiming to love Africa, is campaigning that two of those seats should go the continent because as its Ambassador to the UN, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, said: “It’s what our African partners seek, and it’s what we believe is just.” But, trust the American establishment, there is a caveat: provided the new members would not have the Veto! It is like saying a person should be allowed to own a cannon provided he will not have balls. The magnanimous USA would tolerate Africans at the UNSC Permanent Security court provided they are eunuchs: castrated men.

The Veto power derives from Article 27 of the UN Charter which provides that: “Each member of the Security Council shall have one vote; Decisions of the Security Council on procedural matters shall be made by an affirmative vote of nine members (and) Decisions of the Security Council on all other matters shall be made by an affirmative vote of nine members, including the concurring votes of the permanent members…”

In other words, the power of the UN permanent members is principally based on their power to veto any issue in the organisation. To have the veto is to have the power to override any decision of the UN even if backed by the 192 other member countries.

Incredibly, some are debating whether this should be accepted or not since half bread is better than none; supposing the half-bread is poisoned?

The Veto in practice is used as a personal weapon by the permanent members which include three European countries: France, United Kingdom and Russia; one Asian, China and, one North American, USA. Shut out of this exclusive club are regions like Africa, the Caribbean and Pacific, the Middle East and Latin America.

The Veto, itself, is a violation of Article 2 of the UN Charter which states that: “The Organisation is based on the principle of the sovereign equality of all its Members.”

The most fundamental reform that can be carried out in the UN is to scrap the Veto power. The UNSC should, of course, continue its primary responsibility of maintaining international peace and security, provided it is democratised with no permanent seats.

The proposed reforms of the UN system are part of the “Pact for the Future” resolution passed on Sunday, September 22, 2024. The five planks of the Pact are international peace and security; sustainable development; youth and future generations; science and technology; and transforming global governance.

For the Pact to truly impact on humanity, the UN must be reformed and reoriented based on equality for all and social justice.

Japanese auto giant Toyota is to end their top-tier Olympics sponsorship, its chairman has said, citing the sporting showpiece’s “increasingly political” influence that puts athletes on the back burner.

Toyota struck a 10-year sponsorship deal in 2015 with the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

But now, with the Paris Games over, the carmaker decided to end the contract, chairman Akio Toyoda said during a podcast episode uploaded Thursday on the firm’s own YouTube channel.

“I’ve wondered for a while now whether the event is truly putting athletes first”, Toyoda said.

“It is also becoming increasingly political”.

The withdrawal means Olympics logos currently carried by Toyota products will be phased out, and its vehicles will no longer be provided to assist with the event, the chairman said.

Public broadcaster NHK said the company is also ending its Paralympics sponsorship deal.

“For me, the Olympics should simply be about watching athletes from all walks of life, with all types of challenges, achieve their impossible,” Toyoda told the US auto dealers.

Toyota follows another Japanese company Panasonic in ending their association with the Olympics.

Panasonic announced their withdrawal earlier this month citing “management considerations”.

The electronics giant said it agreed with the IOC not to extend their sponsorship agreement when the current contract expires in December.

Panasonic became an “official Worldwide Partner of the Olympic Games” in 1987 and expanded its sponsorship to the Paralympics from 2014.

But it decided to let the contract expire “as the Group continually reviews how sponsorship should evolve with broader management considerations”.

“As a result of this review, and after extensive consultation with the IOC, the parties agreed to refrain from renewing the Olympic and Paralympic Partner Agreement,” Panasonic said without offering details.

[Vanguard]