‘Titanic’ can mean something that is very big, gigantic or enormous and it was also the name of a ship that sank on its maiden voyage.

When the Titanic sank in 1912 it sank due to a number of avoidable factors: a ship deemed unsinkable that wasn’t fitted with watertight compartments, a ‘unprofessional’ seasoned captain who was apparently bullied into going at full speed through known ice-berg strewn waters, lack of common binoculars for the deck watch and the unavailability of enough life boats for all the passengers.

This all put together, as they say, was a recipe for disaster. Red flags were ignored.

Translating this to President Tinubu’s modern-day Nigeria, the avoidable factors that can sink the country are way too obvious.

Nigerians have long enjoyed the benefits of fuel subsidy. Costly as it is to maintain it’s enabled the economy to keep running by keeping the cost of things low. It’s removal, as can be seen, has created a domino effect, as the experts predicted, resulting in the prices of even the basic commodities skyrocketing as everyone passes on the additional costs. With inflation currently at 32.7% and still rising, things are only going to keep on getting more and more expensive. As a result, the new minimum wage of N70,000 will have less purchasing power than the previous 2021 minimum wage of N30,000. If fuel subsidy removal was meant to boost the economy it has done the opposite and will stagnate any efforts to kickstart it.   

The governments inability to control corruption or severely punish corrupt officials which is robbing the country’s coffers of billions and billions of Naira every year is a stumbling block for development. If a corrupt government official who built 750 houses with stolen funds or an ex-governor accused of misappropriating 80 Billion Naira are allowed to walk around freely, supposedly on bail, without fear of eventual conviction it questions the message the government is sending out to future looters: if the culprits were in Russia or China the outcome will be totally different. 

Even though an austerity economic policy may seem harsh like it was designed to rob Peter to pay Paul, it should be short, sharp hardship with green pastures in the foreseeable future – not ever! A good start will be to cut down on the number of foreign loans being obtained every year as their repayment can take a huge chunk out of the country’s annual income.

The new tax laws are long overdue and it should include that VAT earned in a state stays in that state: so, if your state doesn’t generate any VAT (- such as from the sale of alcohol products) you don’t get to share in what other states have collected.

Insecurity in the country is not something that started yesterday. Previous governments have blood on their hands for not nipping these insurrections in the bud before they grew to become monstrosities. You don’t pat yourself on the back, like the Nigerian Army likes to do believing you have the threat ‘under control’ – you eliminate the threat completely using what ever means necessary. Unless the order [ given by ‘Somebody’] is not to destroy them completely and to quote the late Sani Abacha,”…any insurgency that lasts more than 24 hours, a government official has a hand in it..”, no wonder Boko Haram continues to flourish and bandits like Turji Bello continue to taut the government. When the armed robber Lawrence Anini did something similar in 1986 he was fished out within months, tried and executed.

As I’ve written before the Nigerian Police Force is long past its sell by date and considering the ever growing population of Nigeria with its associated acts of anti-social behaviour its time to seriously consider devolving the NPF into state-run outfits. The growing popularity of state-run security outfits, such as Amotekun, proves this is feasible and effective.

Considering the fact the country is going through severe economic hardship the President, himself, should curb frivolous spending where possible: no more new Presidential yachts or planes ( - that includes the new one for the VP), a cap on ridiculous-no-real-job SA and SSA appointments and most important of all a cap on ALL politicians salaries and perks ( - which is to say if politicians are patriotic enough they’ll agree to a pay cut, forgo some of their benefits and pay for their own jaunts abroad). Implementing the Steve Oronsaye Report which recommends merging and closing of ministries etc that has been passed over by every President since President Goodluck commissioned it in 2011 will cut government operating costs even further. This should not just be at Presidential level but extended to all the states: this will not just streamline the bloated and largely inefficient civil service but will also weed out ghost workers and white elephant project.

The ‘japa’ movement which the government is trying to discourage should be allowed to continue. It’s morally wrong for a government that can’t provide suitable employment for its citizens to try and prevent them from seeking opportunities abroad : ‘japa’ is not just limited to Nigerians, it’s a worldwide phenomenon. People, British, American ,Filipinos, are migrating worldwide to where ever there are opportunities for them to prosper. That’s the way the world works now: nobody is going to stay in a ‘sh*t-hole’ country if there are no opportunities for them to grow. Scr3w patriotism! It’s every man for himself! So, if a country can’t provide adequate employment opportunities people will pack their bags and ‘japa’! And if you restrict them from leaving the country what are they going to do? Get up to mischief – 419, cultism, kidnapping!

These same people send money back to their home countries all the time: Nigerians in diaspora in 2023 alone sent home more than $19.5 Billion Dollars. This is a huge injection of foreign currency for a country that desperately needs it.

So, just like the Titanic the warning signs are there and the inevitable that will happen should they be ignored. The question is which way is President Tinubu going to go. This is what I call the ‘Titanic Wahala’, ignore the obvious and the proverbial will hit the fan, sooner or later.

The government of Ghana recognised the Sahara Arab Democratic Republic led by the Polisario Front in 1979. Since then, the government and people of Ghana have joined progressive forces in the world to mount pressure on the Kingdom of Morocco to recognise the rights of the people of Western Sahara to self- determination.

Even though Morocco has not halted the illegal occupation of the territory of Western Sahara, the Government of Ghana was reported to have suspended relations with the Saharawi Arab Democratic Republic on January 6, 2024.

The decision is contemptuous of the judgment of the African Court on Human and Peoples Rights delivered on September 22, 2022. In the historic judgment, the Court upheld the rights of the people of Western Sahara to self -determination guaranteed by article 20 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights.

The Court also noted that, in view of the fact that part of the SADR’s territory was still under occupation by Morocco, there was no question that State Parties to the Charter have an obligation, individually and collectively, towards the people of SADR to protect their right to self-determination, particularly, by providing assistance in their struggle for freedom and by not recognising Morocco’s occupation and any human rights violation that might have resulted from such occupation.

The case was filed by Mr. Bernard Mornah, a national of the Republic of Ghana and the Chairman of the Convention of People’s Party (CPP). The Applicant had filed the case against eight (8) State Parties to the Protocol, that is, the Republic of Benin, Burkina Faso, Republic of Cote d’Ivoire, Republic of Ghana, Republic of Mali, Republic of Malawi, Republic of Tanzania, Republic of Tunisia (the Respondent States). Our law firm handled the case pro bono for the Applicant in solidarity with the colonised people of Western Sahara.

The Respondents were the member states of the African Union that had complied with article 34(6) of the Protocol of the establishment of the African Court on Human and Peoples Rights which allows individuals and NGOs to access the African Court. Mr. Bernard Mornah (the Applicant) The arguments of Ghana and other Respondents canvassed in favour of the Kingdom of Morocco were rejected by the African Court.

The Court reiterated that the Republic of Ghana and other Respondent States, and indeed, all State Parties to the African Charter and the Protocol, as well as all Member States of the AU, have the responsibility under international law, to find a permanent solution to the occupation and to ensure the enjoyment of the right to self-determination of the people of Western Sahara and not to do anything that would give recognition to such occupation as lawful ori impede their enjoyment of this right.

By suspending relations with the leadership of the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Party on the ground of the “good-faith efforts made by the Kingdom of Morocco to reach a solution accepted by all parties", the Government of Ghana has treated the valid and subsisting judgment of the African Court with absolute contempt.

We, therefore, urge the new John Mahama administration to reverse the contemptuous decision taken on the eve of the departure of the last regime. In the words of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, the a leading light of the independence movement in Africa: “The independence of Ghana is meaningless until it is linked to the total liberation of Africa.”
The independence of SADR will be a historical continuation of that total liberation envisioned by Nkrumah and other heroes of genuine freedom of Africa.

In every functional democracy, the role of opposition is sacrosanct. It is a critical pillar that ensures accountability, promotes debate, and provides alternative perspectives to governance. Without a strong and viable opposition, a democratic system risks descending into authoritarianism or unchecked governance. Against this backdrop, recent developments surrounding the alleged threat to the life of Mr. Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general election, raise serious concerns about the state of democracy in Nigeria.

Mr. Peter Obi’s allegation, made in a post on X (formerly Twitter), pointed to Mr. Felix Morka, the National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), accusing him of crossing the line and threatening dire consequences. Although Morka has since denied the allegation, stating that he neither threatened Obi nor any member of his family, the issue has ignited widespread commentary and skepticism. For many observers, the denial is far from reassuring. This incident not only puts the spotlight on the dangers of political intolerance but also highlights the indispensability of opposition in a democracy.

Opposition parties are the heartbeat of any democracy. They scrutinize government policies, hold the ruling party accountable, and provide alternative governance blueprints. They act as the voice of the people who do not align with the ruling party, ensuring that diverse perspectives are represented in the political discourse. The opposition’s freedom to operate without intimidation or threat is essential for maintaining a healthy balance of power.

When members of the opposition are silenced, threatened, or harassed, it creates an environment of fear that stifles dissent and undermines the democratic process. Such a scenario does not bode well for a country like Nigeria, where democracy is still maturing and political tensions often run high.

The allegation by Peter Obi and the subsequent denial by Felix Morka reflect the deep political divides in Nigeria. While it is important to approach such allegations with caution and a commitment to uncovering the truth, it is equally crucial to acknowledge the context in which they occur. Nigeria’s political landscape is often characterized by animosity and vitriol, making it imperative to address even the slightest hint of a threat with seriousness.

For many commentators, Morka’s denial has not quelled fears. The history of political intimidation in Nigeria provides ample reason for skepticism. Allegations of threats, whether substantiated or not, should prompt a thorough investigation to ensure that no one, regardless of their political affiliation, feels unsafe or marginalized for expressing their views or contesting elections.

Political intolerance is a cancer that eats away at the fabric of democracy. When opposition figures are labeled as enemies or threats to national stability, it creates a toxic environment where constructive criticism is equated with treason. This mindset is dangerous and counterproductive.

Threats, whether direct or implied, have far-reaching consequences. They not only endanger the lives of individuals but also discourage participation in the political process. Aspiring leaders who see the opposition as a death sentence may opt to stay away from politics altogether, depriving the nation of potential leaders with innovative ideas and genuine intentions to serve.

The alleged threat to Peter Obi’s life, if proven true, is a grim reminder of the dangers faced by opposition leaders in Nigeria. It underscores the urgent need for a shift in political culture, one that prioritizes dialogue over confrontation and mutual respect over hostility.

Given the gravity of the situation, it is expedient to call Felix Morka to order, not just to address Peter Obi’s allegation but to set a precedent that political intolerance will not be tolerated. Even if Morka’s denial is taken at face value, the mere fact that such an allegation was made should prompt introspection within the APC and other political parties.

The ruling party has a responsibility to create an environment where opposition figures can operate without fear. This responsibility includes holding its members accountable for their words and actions. Morka, as the National Publicity Secretary of the APC, holds a position of influence. His statements and conduct should reflect a commitment to democratic values, including respect for opposition leaders.

Calling Morka to order does not equate to vilifying him. Instead, it is a call for accountability and a reminder of the importance of upholding the principles of democracy. It is an opportunity for the APC to demonstrate that it is committed to fostering a political climate where all voices can be heard and respected.

The opposition is not a threat to democracy; it is its lifeblood. In countries where democracy thrives, opposition parties are seen as partners in governance, not adversaries to be silenced. Nigeria must embrace this perspective if it is to overcome its political challenges and build a more inclusive and participatory democratic system.

Peter Obi’s role as an opposition leader is critical to Nigeria’s democracy. His ability to challenge the status quo, propose alternative policies, and represent a segment of the population that feels marginalized by the ruling party is indispensable. Any attempt to undermine his efforts, whether through threats, intimidation, or other means, is an affront to democracy itself.

To address the current issue and prevent future occurrences, several steps must be taken. And the first step to be taken should be through investigation. Without resorting to taking sides on this issue in this context, the allegation by Peter Obi should be thoroughly investigated by independent and impartial authorities. This will not only establish the truth but also send a message that threats against opposition leaders will not be tolerated.

Again, another step to be taken is that of strengthening democratic institutions. In fact, Nigeria’s democratic institutions must be empowered to protect the rights of all citizens, including opposition figures. This includes ensuring that the judiciary, law enforcement agencies, and electoral bodies operate without bias or external influence.

In a similar vein, there is the need for the promotion of political tolerance. Given the foregoing backdrop, political parties and their members must be educated on the importance of tolerance and respect for opposing views. This can be achieved through workshops, public awareness campaigns, and stricter enforcement of rules governing political conduct.

Also in a similar vein is the need of holding leaders accountable. Therefore, political leaders must be held accountable for their statements and actions. This includes taking disciplinary action against party members who engage in behavior that undermines democratic principles.

Added to the above highlighted steps is that of fostering dialogue. In fact, platforms for dialogue between ruling and opposition parties should be established to promote understanding and cooperation. Such platforms can help reduce tensions and create a more harmonious political environment.

The alleged threat to Peter Obi’s life and the subsequent denial by Felix Morka highlight the challenges facing Nigeria’s democracy. While the truth of the allegation remains to be determined, the incident underscores the need for political tolerance, respect for opposition, and a commitment to democratic values.

Opposition is not an enemy to be defeated; it is a partner in governance. Therefore, calling Morka to order is not just about addressing a specific allegation; it is about reaffirming the principles of democracy and ensuring that Nigeria remains a country where diverse voices can thrive. In a democracy, opposition is indispensable, and its survival is a testament to the strength of the system.

Nigeria has called on the United Nations to investigate the funding and training of the Boko Haram terrorists.

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, made the call in a recent interview he had with Al-Jazeera.

Musa said there was international flow of funding for the terrorists, stressing the need for the UN to come in to trace and track it.

The defence chief, who questioned how the insurgents had sustained themselves for 15 years, also fingered international conspiracy in providing the terrorists with funds, training and equipment.

Daily Trust reports that the CDS’ call on the international community for investigation came at the wake of a new trick by Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists who are now deploying drones for surveillance ahead of launching attacks on security operatives.

Responding to a question on why Boko Haram has kept regrouping despite the claims by the federal government that the sect has been degraded, the CDS said: “The problem is that I think we have talked to the international community. Let’s find out the funding. As we speak, over 120,000 Boko Haram members have surrendered, and most of them came with hard currency. How did they get it? How are they funded? How did they get the training? How did they get the equipment?

“The UN needs to come in because we need to trace the funding. It is international flow, and we don’t have control over that,” he said.

Asked what his suspicion was, the defence chief said: “Well, maybe an international conspiracy… How are they being able to sustain themselves for 15 years? That is one question I think everybody should ask themselves.”

The defence chief, however, said he did not know whose interest it is to see Nigeria destabilized.

He noted that Nigeria is not the only country dealing with the asymmetric warfare.

“West Africa, the Sahelian area, and in fact, if actions are not taken, it is going to engulf the entire world.

“We are just good guys just trying to make sure that our country is secured, and then, some individuals seem not to be happy about it, and doing everything possible to throw us under the bus for whatever reasons…I have been in service for almost 33 years. Anytime we seem to be succeeding, somebody throws something at us, and the question is: why? Is it because we are succeeding or you don’t want the country to move forward? What is the aim? What’s the intent? That is the question we are asking.”

He also stated that the difficulty in getting equipment was one of the reasons the insurgency had not been wiped out.

“We have a procurement procedure which is being followed. And to also state that even with our monies at times, we find it difficult getting equipment. And the question is: why? One of the reasons why this insurgency has been for this long is because we have been denied access to equipment. Even when we have our monies to get it, it is difficult,” he said.

On why the military had been denied access to equipment, he said: “Well, I really don’t understand. It is a question that we keep on asking, why are we being denied?

“Our government is doing the best it can. But as an international system, like I said, we don’t produce (equipment), we need to buy. So, going to buy is sometimes a bit difficult, getting these items.”

Asked whether Nigeria has any foreign bases on its soil, the CDS exclaimed: “Not at all! We do not encourage any foreign bases. We have the capacity to secure our country, to secure the sub-region and to assist Africa. We have that capacity.

“All we need is to continue to do joint training, which we do, get equipment that we need to help us project these wars,” he said.

FG should send probe request to global community – Expert

In an interview with Daily Trust yesterday, a security sector reform expert, Chukwuma Ume, urged the federal government to consider a formal application to the UN for an investigation into the terrorists’ funding.

He said the government must show the willingness to invited the international community for such an investigation.

“Nothing is wrong with the CDS said in seeking the support of the UN…World over, when any country has issues with man-made issues or natural disaster, you seek support, capacity, intervention and even intelligence from other members of the international communities.

“Yes, it is something in the right direction, but it shouldn’t just stop at that action, and I’m sure the CDS is more than capable, and very knowledgeable of how to go about this. Most senior officers in the Nigerian military have international exposure.

“They must have gone on a peacekeeping mission to one or two other international assignments. I believe they are very vast and knowledgeable on how to table something like this. It is a request that should be matched with actions.

“The international community would also want to see your actions, they would also want to be encouraged by your human rights compliance records vis-a-vis your ability or intention to put in place good governance.

“In other words, if the government is making this request, they (UN) would want the government to show demonstrable efforts in terms of good governance, in terms of human rights compliance, in terms of all rules of engagements, how much are they complying with rules of engagements?

Military confirms 6 soldiers, 34 terrorists killed in Borno attack

The military high command yesterday broke its silence on the Saturday’s attack on it Forward Operating Base, Sabon Gari Area in Damboa Local Government Area of Borno State.

It confirmed that six soldiers lost their lives during the encounter; while 34 terrorists, who had attempted to surprise the troops and retaliate the recent killing of their commander and combatants by troops, were also killed.

Responding to Daily Trust’s enquiry Wednesday morning, Director, Defence Media Operations, Major-General Edward Buba, said most of the bodies being recovered were those of the terrorists who were wasted by the gallant troops.

He said the terrorists were neutralised by the air component of Operation HADIN KAI when it conducted air interdiction on the fleeing terrorists.

He said the Battle Damage Assessment revealed that several terrorists were killed and their weapons recovered.

He said though the vigilante commander got injured when he stepped on Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), the timely arrival of reinforcement overpowered the terrorists.

He said: “On 4 January 2025, an unspecified number of ISWAP/BHT terrorists riding on motorcycles and gun trucks engaged troops deployed in Sabon Gari Village of Damboa LGA of Borno State in a fire fight.

“The terrorists had attempted to surprise troops and retaliate the recent killing of their commander and combatants by troops. The terrorists were taken unaware, when troops fighting patrol returning to the Base foiled their planned attack as soon as the attack commenced.

“Additionally, troops reinforcement team comprised of elements of Civilian Joint Taskforce, vigilante as well as hybrid forces timely arrived the scene to overpower the terrorists.

“Furthermore, the air component of Operation HADIN KAI conducted air interdiction on the fleeing terrorists.  Battle Damage Assessment revealed several killed terrorists and recovered weapons.

“On the whole, 34 terrorist were killed and 23 AK 47 weapons recovered. Troops also recovered with over 200 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunitions. Sadly, 6 personnel were killed in action.”

He appealed to the media and Nigerians to respect non-disclosure of the names of killed-in-action personnel to allow administrative procedures of notifying their Next of Kin.

He said on the whole, the Armed Forces of Nigeria was profoundly conscious of its role and responsibility in ending insurgency and terrorism in the nation, adding that troops remained committed to the course of defeating the terrorists.

[DailyTrust]

Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State has said he is not worried about being re-elected in 2027.

Yusuf said he would serve a second term as governor if it’s the will of Allah.

He spoke in Kano, where he warned against making inciting statements ahead of the 2027 general elections.

According to Yusuf: “What I am worried about is not re-election. I am more concerned about delivering the dividends of democracy on the mandate given to me in this first tenure.

“I want the good people of Kano to judge me by my performance at the end of this tenure.

“We know those people, who were massively rejected in both 2019 and 2023. We won against them at a time when we had no political office— not even a councillorship seat. But Allah made it possible for us to win with a landslide victory.

“I am destined to be a Governor. It is my total belief and submission to the will of Allah that if He so wills, I will serve a second term. If not, I won’t. So why should I bother myself.”

However, Yusuf vowed to resist pressure on his mandate, stressing that his work speak for him.

“My performance will speak for me, not political pressure,” he said.

[DailyPost]

Six months have passed since the Nigerian government vowed to tackle the country's soaring food prices. However, citizens are yet to see any tangible results from the promised intervention.

Despite assurances from officials, the cost of staple foods remains prohibitively high, leaving many Nigerians struggling to make ends meet.

The government's pledge to address the issue was welcomed with optimism, but as the weeks turned into months, hopes began to dwindle.

With no significant decrease in food prices, many are left wondering what became of the government's plan to ameliorate the situation.

As the wait continues, Nigerians are growing increasingly frustrated, calling on the government to take concrete action to address the crisis and provide relief to those struggling to afford basic necessities.

The Minister of Agriculture and Food security, Abubakar Kyari, announced the plans then on his verified X handle in July last year.

Kyari had stated that the measures would be implemented over the next 180 days with the expectation to reduce soaring prices of food items.

The Minister explained that the initiatives included a 150-day Duty-Free import window for food commodities, suspension of duties, tariffs, and taxes on imports of specific food commodities, including maize, husked brown rice, wheat, and cowpea, through land and sea borders.

“Our administration has unveiled a series of strategic measures aimed at addressing the high food prices currently affecting our nation. These measures will be implemented over the next 180 days.

“They include; 150-day Duty-Free Import Window for Food Commodities suspension of duties, tariffs, and taxes for the importation of certain food commodities through land and sea borders. These commodities include maize, husked brown rice, wheat, and cowpea,” the Minister said.

Ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo, a veteran of war, and proponent of ‘do or die politics’ that sees politics as war by other means, is set for war against NNPCL. Obasanjo, a formidable opponent with intimidating credentials is an adversary who says “nothing embarrasses him”, a warrior who routinely cuts deals with enemies of his enemies, or “an incredible opportunist” to borrow retired Brigadier General Alabi Isama’s phrase in his “Tragedy of Victory’. NNPCL must also be warned that Obasanjo is a fighter who in the words of his friend, Andrew Young, former US permanent representatives at the United Nations (UN), “pursues his goals with great tenacity without caring about who he made mad”.

But this is not to discourage NNPCL; I will in fact encourage NNPCL to accept Chief Obasanjo’s challenge. After all, it is not as if NNPCL, regarded by many as ‘a cesspool of corruption, an organization deficit in character and honour and the scourge of Nigerian fuel consumers has much to lose in a battle over honour. It was only  two days ago that the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) was asking through its letter dated January 4 that the Group Chief Executive Officer of the body, Mele Kyari, to explain the disappearance of over N825 billion and $2.5 billion allegedly deducted from crude oil sales between 2020 and 2021 ostensibly for refinery repairs.

All Obasanjo – who cannot stand being proved to be imperfect – wants is for NNPCL to stake its honour by confirming that Port Harcourt and Warri refineries are indeed working. And now with  a television station mischievously waking up trouble that was hitherto deep asleep, the die is cast. It is one more opportunity for a vindictive Obasanjo to prove he alone is infallible, the fact he tried hard to establish in his war memoir “My Command” and in his “Olusegun Obasanjo, The Presidential Legacy 1999-2007”.

His current battle is anchored on the following syllogism: He had as president invited Shell International to buy equity or run our refineries for us on its own terms, offers Shell turned down. Aliko Dangote, the apple of his eyes, was able to put a team together and offered government $750m to run the refineries on Public/Private Partnership basis (PPP) His successor, the late Umaru Yar’Adua refunded Dangote’s money following undertaking by NNPCL to manage the refineries. NNPCL ended up frittering away billons of naira without giving relief to Nigerians since he, Obasanjo left office. Therefore, NNPCL’s claim that both Port Harcourt and Warri refineries are now working cannot be true.

Obasanjo might have not provided enough empirical facts to validate its thesis beyond NNPCL’s past records which seem to provide additional ammunition to consolidate what Obasanjo considers as an unassailable position.

But that was until Femi Falana, the respected human rights lawyer, who besides Obasanjo who wears his “PDP’s award of ‘Father of Nigeria’ title like St Christopher’s cross, is in my opinion, one Nigerian, that is deserving of being called “Mr. Nigeria”, stepped in to provide the missing link.

According to him, the cancellation of the federal  government’ Public, Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement for the management of the Port Harcourt, Warri and Kaduna refineries approved by the Obasanjo government in 2007 was attributed to the questionable circumstances surrounding the deal. First, it was alleged that Obasanjo “in utter breach” of the Privatisation and Commercialisation Act, side-lined Vice President Atiku Abubakar, the chairman of the National Council on Privatisation (NCP), and “took over the privatisation of a number of public enterprises.”

These include Obasanajo’s sale on May 17, 2007 of a 51% stake in the Port Harcourt refinery to Bluestar Oil for US$561 million and on May 28, 2007, sales of 51% shares in Kaduna Refinery at a cost of $160m to the same Bluestar, a consortium of three domestic companies, including Dangote Oil, Zenon Oil and Transcorp in which Obasanjo had acquired large shares through ‘blind trust.’

Scandalously, the deals were consummated in the last days of the Obasanjo administration despite the four-day protests by National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) and the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) which also alleged that the nation had been short-changed as the shares acquired in the Port Harcourt refinery for $516 million were worth US$5 billion.

Obasanjo’s case is not helped by the National Assembly awful report on the privatization programme he supervised. The World Bank for instance had defined privatization as a programme for middle-income countries ‘with a competitive market, a market-friendly environment with a good capacity to regulate. But as victims of cultural imperialism that ape everything, including policy thrust that have no chance of survival in our own environment, our leaders sheepishly followed Britain and France’s privatisation of the eighties.

First to be launched was the Babangida’s Privatisation and Commercialisation Act of 1988, the Bureau of Public Enterprises Act of 1993 and Obasanjo’s Privatisation and Commercialisation Act of 1999. They were all doomed to fail.

We don’t need any other proof than the 7th Senate report of November 30, 2011 which directed that the National Council on Privatization rescind the sale of Abuja International Hotels Limited (Nicon Luxury Hotel) for failure of the core investor to deliver on  some of the fundamental provision of the Share Purchase Agreement/Post Acquisition Plan; that the sales of assets of Daily Times Nigeria Pic by Folio Communications Limited and its directors should be investigated by anti-graft agencies and the sold assets recovered; that the former Directors-General, Nasir El-Rufai, Julius Bala and Irene Nkechi Chigbue be reprimanded for seeking approval directly from the president instead of the NCP as stipulated in the Public Enterprises Act 1999; and that   the Director-General, BPE, Ms Bolanle Onagoruwa be relieved of her appointment for gross incompetence in the management of the Bureau of Public Enterprises and for illegal and fraudulent sale of the 5 % FGN residual shares in Eleme Petrochemicals Company Limited (EPCL).

Privatisation of the power sector by President Jonathan, his godson was also a rip-off. In August 2013, 15 companies made up of 10 Distribution Companies (DISCOs) and five Generation Companies (GENCOs) paid $2.238b to take over 60% of unbundled PHCN after an injection of between $8-$15b of tax payer’s money.

Commenting on this on the occasion of the 11th Bola Tinubu Colloquium that took place in Abuja, Tinubu had then observed that “The PDP administration shared our generation, distribution and transmission to their friends and cronies without very deep and thoughtful research and evaluation. It has now become pork chops. It was his view that “for a more constructive reform to improve generation, transmission and distribution, “the privatisation must be reviewed”.

Unlike our one-eyed kings who had no faith in themselves, it is on record that Obafemi Awolowo and his colleagues who laid the foundation for the Western Region, today regarded as the most educated part of Africa; Ahmadu Bello, who put together the biggest business conglomerate in Africa, south of Sahara and Michael Okpara and his group credited with running the fastest growing economy in the world in the early sixties, did not quarrel with  the economic model foisted on them by the colonial masters. All they did was to adapt mixed-economy model/public enterprises to the peculiarities of their own environment and the special needs of their people.

It was also unfortunately lost on our one-eyed kings that we have no capitalists in Nigeria but parasitic elites who have no stakes beyond taking whatever they can get from the state. We see this play out daily with importers of labour of other societies including substandard goods and drugs while thousands of our highly qualified youths scrambled abroad in search of greener pastures. We also see this among unpatriotic sponsors of violent armed immigrant herdsmen who illegally occupy our ungoverned forests in the north from where they visit periodic violence on subsistence farmers, killing, maiming and sending survivors to IDP camps while houses, farm lands and villages are forcefully taken over.

Whereas Western societies are owned by powerful individual capitalists who in early eighties under Margaret Thatcher decided that public enterprises had fulfilled its historical mission of repositioning the impoverished poor of the post World1 and 11 period as average workers  Their historic mission was to guarantee system survival without posing a threat to the highly stratified class social system by being able to build a house without mortgage or sending your children to the university without loan.

And for Obasanjo and his crusading colleagues who falsely claim ‘for our today they sacrificed their tomorrow’, we now know patriotism sometimes is not without altruism. It was Babangida, who annulled the most credible election in our nation’s history, in order to remain in power or swap position with Abacha, who put and sustained him in power through military coups. Obasanjo’s boys also spoke of alleged bribe with tons of naira stocked in ‘Ghana must go’ bags in pursuit of derailed third term agenda, Obasanjo has continued to deny.

BBNaija Season 9 winner Kellyrae has shared his journey through personal struggles and his bond with his wife, Kassia, in a heartfelt interview with Chude. 

Kellyrae disclosed that before entering the reality show, he had lost all his money to betting, which plunged him into depression and overwhelming guilt. 

During his darkest moments, he credited Kassia for standing by him and offering unwavering support that helped him regain hope and strength. 

Kellyrae’s story highlights the resilience and the power of a supportive partnership. 

He said: “I had some money, but because I wanted more, the money was not enough; I started gambling with it and then lost it all. I was depressed. Every night, I was awake, thinking. Then she was the one who came to my rescue.” 

However, he also considered breaking up with her due to his inability to provide adequately for her. 

“I was thinking one day; I called her and said, let’s just break up. I feel I don’t have what it takes to really care for you because I feel guilty most of the time that there are things I’m supposed to be doing,” he said. 

The reality TV star also discussed his time in the BBNaija house, admitting that he kept his marriage a secret but remained true to himself throughout the show. 

“Even if you lie on your bed for the rest of your life, trouble will still come. I think I prefer the trouble that comes with N60 million. The only thing I had to fake was that I was in the house with my wife; every other thing, I was just being myself,” he added. 

[TheNation]

Underlying the definitions of bullying in dictionaries is power imbalance. To bully someone is to direct aggressive behaviour at them, to intimidate or threaten them, to act cruelly towards someone, or to coerce them. For one to do these, there must be a power dynamic that makes the person at the receiving end vulnerable. Such a tilt of strength can either be embodied by an individual with a disproportionate physical or social power or a group of individuals converging on a weaker party to diminish them. Since the word “cyber-” got appended to bullying in Nigeria, it has acquired a new meaning that has virtually subverted the logic of power that underlies it.

Now, and no thanks to the police’s tendency to meddle in every matter in which a “big man” cries about being inconvenienced with public embarrassment activated by a previously unknown entity, a supposed victim of bullying these days is frequently someone who can commandeer the resources of the state. If you have enough clout to send the police on your errands, can you really claim to be a victim of cyberbullying?

Let us begin with the now infamous case of the singer Burna Boy (Damini Ogulu) at whose behest a singer cum comedian Darlington Okoye (Speed Darlington) has been reportedly incarcerated for months. As the story is told—and which Burna Boy has not denied—Speed Darlington is in jail because he taunted Burna Boy about his association with disgraced artiste Sean Combs (aka P Diddy). In December, the court ruled that his arrest and detention constituted “a gross violation” of his constitutional rights to dignity, liberty, expression, and movement. Despite a direct court order, the police have refused to release him. That makes you wonder, is Burna Boy really a “victim” if the police can sacrifice institutional integrity for his sake?

Meanwhile, the same insinuation Speed Darlington made about Burna Boy has been hurled at several US celebrities who as much as took a photograph with P Diddy. None has asked a man to be incarcerated indefinitely because they got butthurt. Please note that these are people whose reputation far outpaces that of an arriviste like Burna Boy. Yet, they will not take that track because they are self-assured enough to understand the price of celebrity. Unlike the quintessential African “big man”, they are also sensible enough to realise that power should have a more productive function than to abuse others cheaply.

Then, there is the case of Olamide Thomas, who was arrested and incarcerated for cursing the President’s son, Seyi Tinubu. This was another case of the police torturing logic just to satisfy a big man with small feelings. They claimed the curse “placed Seyi in fear of death, violence or bodily harm”. That would be hilarious if were not tragic. How does the law assess the effectiveness of a curse? If curses worked the way people who watch too many Nollywood films think they do, something should have happened to Seyi long ago, given that people have been cursing his father (and their family) since 1999! I am genuinely curious as to why Seyi would be so unsettled by curses that it would compel the police (and the court) to overreact to superstition.

Add to that the ongoing case of bloggers, Precious Eze, Olawale Olurotimi, Rowland Olonishuwa and Seun Odunlami, hauled before the Federal High Court in Lagos for “acts of cyberbullying” (some reports describe the allegation as “cyberstalking”) against the CEO of Guaranty Trust Holdings, Segun Agbaje, when they published uncomplimentary remarks about him. I am by no means defending those bloggers (who have long pulled down the publications anyway), but accusations of nepotism, power play, and self-enrichment are so commonplace in Nigeria that accusing a CEO will not elicit as much as a gasp. They certainly do not warrant holding people in custody for upward of three months. The police cannot fight cyberbullying with judicial bullying, sorry.

Even more laughable is the amended charge against them that states their alleged offence can potentially cause “a breakdown of law and order in the Nigerian banking system”? How can anyone cause a breakdown in law and order within the banking system when that sphere is not an extricable part of regular life? The officers who came up with that idea will surely have a profitable gig doing comedies in their police uniform. If they must know, the operational deficiencies and the decline of the high standards for which GTB used to be known (and renowned) will result in “a breakdown of law and order in the Nigerian banking system” faster than the opinion of a blogger no one would have otherwise read.

Add to the growing list of police overreach the case of Abraham Daniel, a former minister at Dunamis International Gospel Centre, Abuja. He was recently summoned for questioning regarding an “investigation” into “cyberbullying”’ following his accusations against his former principal, Pastor Paul Enenche, for reneging their “gentleman’s agreement.” While the police summons appeared civil enough, it is still intimidating, especially given that the issue at stake is a matter of personal differences between two individuals who should resolve their matter privately. If one party can get the police to act on his behalf even in a petty issue, can he still be “cyberbullied”?

These cases are worrisome because they show a growing pattern of judicial abuse that began under the previous administration and is becoming gradually routinised. Do not forget that under alleged civilian President, Maj. Gen. Muhammadu Buhari (rtd), the DSS arraigned a man for treason in the courts for, among other spurious offences, insulting the President. Buhari’s wife also had a young man stalked, arrested, detained, and later charged to court for basically calling her “fat”. What astounded me most was that the police spent six months tracking the guy before they apprehended him. If they demonstrate a similar diligence toward their responsibilities to Nigeria, the country will not be so insecure.

Look at all the spheres all the supposed victims of cyberbullying represent—popular culture, politics, industry, and religion—and understand why this pattern is worrisome. Figures representative of virtually every sphere of our socio-political life are one-trick ponies whose only recourse is to use their clout with the police to perpetrate abuse. That is not good for society by any measure. Even worse, at the rate the police are going with their trivialisation of the law by filing sensational charges over minor issues, they will turn every rabble-rouser into an anti-establishment hero. We should properly delineate what constitutes “cyberbullying” (or “cyberstalking”) so that it stops being exploited by anyone who has some money in their pocket and can purchase justice.

No matter what you think or how you feel about any of those people standing trial for cyberbullying, we should not be so numb that we fail to ask if the issue is about legal protections against malevolent speech or just an increasing pattern of intolerance for human rights. When people who have commensurate power say nasty things against each other on social media, the police never swoop in to “investigate”. Regardless of how vicious the exchange by the warring parties gets, the police never take sides to lament “injurious speech” that therefore warrants filing charges of cyberbullying, cyberstalking or even criminal defamation. It is when the matter becomes a case of the top dog vs an underdog that they become animated. Their conduct calls into question the whole idea of “bullying” as an act of aggression and intimidation. If bullying (cyber- or wherever else it takes place) is about a powerful person preying on a weaker party, what constitutes it when the supposed victim is the one who can afford to hire the police?

Despite the Federal Government’s multi-billion-naira border surveillance systems launched in 2019, illegal migrants, some of whom have been identified as bandits, terrorists and kidnappers, continue to cross into Nigeria from the Republics of Benin, Chad, Niger, Mali and Cameroon.

This is as the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, said e-border surveillance is now being mounted across the nation’s borders with its neighbouring countries.

“As we speak, more than half of our borders have been automated. There are visuals, and a lot of processes going on now. So, effectively, there is e-border surveillance now in our borders.

“By October (2024), we will be done with the first phase of the e-border surveillance project, including our marine borders. Now, we have the command and control for air and land. You cannot secure your borders effectively without technology,” Tunji-Ojo said in a live national television programme in May 2024.

At the launch of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Technology Innovation Complex in early December 2024, the minister said about 250 trained Immigration Service personnel run 24-hour shifts at the e-border control centre.

However, some foreigners still crossed to Nigeria from the Republic of Benin through the Baruten/Kaiama border posts despite the closure of the border by the FG.

Checks by The PUNCH from residents of border communities in the Baruten Local Government Area of Kwara state revealed that illegal immigrants still crossed the border into the country daily.

The immediate past chairman of Baruten Local Government Council, Abdulrasheed Abdullahi, who spoke with one of our correspondents, said that citizens of the Benin Republic are still migrating into the country through several illegal routes.

Abdullahi said, “Although the border posts have been closed since 2020 during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari to beef up security, the border closure has not stopped citizens of Benin Republic who are our neighbours from coming into the country.”

“The e-border control system installed to stop the illegal immigrants from coming to the country had not stopped their citizens from entering Nigeria,” Abdullahi, who ended his tenure as the council chairman in September 2024, added.

The Federal Executive Council approved N52bn for the e-border surveillance system in 2019 to monitor and provide real-time information from major border posts nationwide.

However, the project faced delays due to funding challenges and did not commence until 2022. Nigeria’s extensive borders, covering approximately 5,330 kilometres, have numerous illegal entry points and present ongoing security challenges.

The Nigeria Immigration Service says it has since deployed advanced e-border solutions to over 80 crossing points nationwide, marking the project’s first phase. It says the e-border system offers real-time, 24/7 monitoring and intelligence, enabling better tracking and management of border activities.

Speaking in a telephone with The PUNCH on Monday, the Emir of Yashikira, a border community in Baruten LGA, Umoru Usman, said foreigners cross into the locality daily.

Usman explained, “Despite the border closure and the e-border control system installed by the Federal Government to stop illegal immigration into the country, which are all moves by the government to ensure security, the people from the Benin Republic who are our neighbours still crossed the border. Though we cannot give the figure, people are still crossing the borders on a daily basis.”

When reached for the comments, the Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Immigration Service, Kenneth Udo, did not respond to calls to his mobile line. Also, text messages sent to his mobile and WhatsApp number were not answered as of this report.

Meanwhile, the Eselu of Iselu, Ogun State, Oba Akintunde Akinyemi, on Monday, said that the purported N9bn e-border control system project initiated under the Buhari government has failed to check the influx of illegal migrants into the country.

The royal father said there has been a steady increase in the number of illegal migrants moving into the country from the Benin Republic due to the absence of tangible barricades or landmarks demarcating the borders of both countries.

He attributed the influx of illegal migrants for the surge in crime.

Oba Akinyemi said, “The N9bn e-border control system project is a white elephant project just like the botched Nigeria Airways” under the same government of President Buhari.

He expressed doubts about the existence of any e-border control system along the land border with neighbouring Benin Republic.

He noted, “This issue of N9bn e-border control system project is a white elephant project under Buhari’s administration just like the Nigeria Airways which newspaper reports said that some people went to borrow an aircraft somewhere, branded it and call it Nigeria Airways.

“Maybe the e-border control system is at the airport, I don’t know. But for the land border area, nothing like that exists here. In fact, there is a greater influx of Beninois into the country.

“If you come to our area, there nothing so visible demarcating the two countries, just as Nigerians are going into their country, the same way we are having them, the Beninois also coming in droves, it is like we are sharing the same country.”

“They are even laying claims to some of our lands. Maybe the border control system is somewhere in the North, but I have not seen anything like that here. I am one of the advocates for the border commission; where are they? What are they doing?” he queried.

The Eselu also decried the huge infrastructural deficit at border communities, saying that things are beginning to change with the interventions from the state government and the Senator representing Ogun West, Solomon Adeola, fondly called Yayi.

He explained, “I have said it countless times: all we see is the budget; we don’t know where the money goes. Maybe in the history of our area, they sank a borehole after PUNCH wrote about the plight of a community without water and all that.

“The infrastructural deficit at the border area is very high, and the children do not have access to basic education. Kudos to the state government for doing this anyway. The state took it upon itself to bring in some schools and build some infrastructure, but it is not enough.

“We also appreciate Senator Solomon Adeola for what he’s doing to enhance the development of the border communities. The reason we are also seeing crime going up is due to the influx of foreigners who come into the country without being checked; they could carry some weapons, they will come into the country, do whatever they like and move back to their country, that’s the problem.”

A resident of Ilara in Imeko-Afon Local Government, Mr Ade Raheem, also argued that there has been no change in the inflow and outflow of people between Nigeria and the Republic of Benin.

Taiwo said, “Our case is even peculiar because about 35 per cent of Ilara town is in the Republic of Benin while the remaining 65 per cent is in Nigeria. There is nothing so visible demarcating Nigeria and the Republic of Benin other than a crossbar, so people come into Nigeria without any hindrance. Likewise, Nigerians too, go into the Benin without any problem.

“I am not aware of any e-border control system; maybe that could be in the barrack of the immigration which is at the outskirts of the town, but people have continued to move freely into the country from the Benin Republic like it was from time immemorial.”

In a similar development, residents of Maigatari, a border community in Jigawa State, claimed that the system was ineffective.

Jigawa, a northern border state, has a unique dynamic with its neighbouring country, Niger Republic. Its proximity to Niger Republic has nurtured a long-standing relationship between residents of both countries.

In exclusive interviews with The PUNCH, some residents of Maigatari confirmed having family ties, business relationships and even own farms across the border.

According to them, this has created a sense of community and cooperation between the two nations.

A resident of Maigatari, Abdullahi Maiwada, stated, “Illegal immigrants from Niger Republic still find their way into Nigeria. We’ve lived with our Nigerien counterparts for generations.”

Maiwada added, “We have family ties, business relationships, and even own farms across the border. It’s impossible to separate us.”

Another town resident, Sani Dabo, pointed out that the weekly markets, where people from both countries gather to buy and sell goods, are still thriving.

“These markets have been in existence for decades,” said Sani Dabo, a trader in the Maigatari market. “Nigeriens provide a vital source of income for many of us, and we can’t just shut them down,” he stated.

Dabo also highlighted that “the issue of illegal immigration in Jigawa State is complex, with deep-rooted historical and cultural ties between residents of Nigeria and Niger Republic.”

When contacted on the issue, the District Head of Maigatari, ‘Sarkin Dawakin Gumel’ Alhaji Muhammad Alhassan, noted that the historical and cultural ties between Nigeria and Niger Republic cannot be ignored.

“We’ve always had a cordial relationship with our neighbours from Niger. While we appreciate the government’s efforts to secure our borders, we must also consider the historical and cultural ties that bind us,” the district head said.

The monarch revealed, “We’re not just neighbours; we’re family. Therefore, his sentiment underscores the need for a nuanced approach towards addressing the issue of illegal immigration not only in this area but across all states that share a border with another country.”

According to the district head, the relationship between the people of Nigeria and Niger Republic in the border community of Maigatari has always been peaceful. ‘’We’ve lived together for generations, and our people have always coexisted peacefully,” he said.

“We have a strong tradition of hospitality and mutual respect, and we’ve never had any major conflicts,” he emphasised.

Alhassan also noted that the government authorities responsible for securing the border are doing their best to ensure that anyone crossing the border does so in accordance with the law.

“The immigration officials, customs officials, and other security personnel are all doing their jobs to ensure that the border is secure and that anyone crossing into Nigeria does so with the proper documentation and clearance,” he said, adding that “We’re grateful for their efforts, and we’re confident that they will continue to do their best to keep our borders secure.”

For his part, the Chairman of Maigatari Local Government Area, Usman Na’Allah, in a telephone call said that the e-border control system has helped reduce the influx of illegal immigrants, but more needed to be done.

“We need to strengthen our border security and provide economic opportunities for our people to reduce the temptation to cross the border illegally and this is a call to action for the government,” he stressed.

A member of the vigilante team in Maigatari, who spoke on condition of anonymity, revealed that despite the presence of security personnel, illegal immigrants still find ways into the country.

He noted, “We do our best to patrol the borders, but it’s a vast area, and we can’t be everywhere at once and this highlights the challenges faced by security personnel.”

Meanwhile, concerns continue to grow in Taraba’s border communities over illegal immigrants. Residents and stakeholders in Taraba State’s border communities who spoke to one of our correspondents said the illegal immigrants from Cameroon have continued to cross into the country, raising concerns about security and competition over resources.

Residents of the border towns in the state, including Abong in Kurmi Local Government, Kashimbilla in Takum and Hainare in Sardauna LGAs, said porous borders and inadequate security measures enable the influx of undocumented immigrants.

A local chief in one of the border towns in Kurmi, Danjuma Luka, expressed frustration over the persistent challenge.

“We are still seeing foreigners coming into our communities without any form of documentation. Many of them claim to be refugees, but some have been linked to criminal activities, which is alarming,” he said.

Another resident of Kurmi, who declined to identify himself for security reasons, confirmed the influx of undocumented migrants, attributing it to the challenging terrain of the border areas.

“Taraba State shares borders with Cameroon, and our rugged landscape makes it easy for people to cross undetected. We need more Federal Government support to monitor these areas effectively,” he said.

Leader of the vigilante group in Hinare, Umar Saidu, who said they are often the first line of defence in the communities, told one of our correspondents in a phone interview that they have intercepted undocumented immigrants on several occasions.

A vigilante leader in Ussa, Tanimu Hassan, said, “We work day and night to secure our communities, but the lack of resources and advanced technology hampers our efforts. We hand over illegal immigrants to immigration officers, but it’s a recurring problem.”

When reached for comments, the Jalingo Command of the Nigeria Immigration Service did not respond. Also, the chairmen of the affected local government councils in the border communities declined to comment on the issue.

However, sources in the command admitted that limited manpower and insufficient logistics continue to undermine effective border patrols.

“We are aware of the situation and are working to address it, but the challenges are enormous,” one of the sources in the agency said.

In the South-South state of Cross River, monarchs and youth leaders have pledged to support the fight against illegal migration.

Traditional rulers from Ekpri Ikang and Ikang Town of Bakassi Local Government Area unanimously pledged their unwavering dedication and commitment to fighting illegal immigration in the area.

The monarchs made the remarks in an interview with one of our correspondents, affirming their resolve to promote peace, security and development in the region.

The village head of Ikang Town community, Chief Antigha Cobham, commended the Federal Government for ensuring a strong security system in the Nigeria-Cameroon border.

Cobham noted that the security personnel deployed to the community are dedicated and committed to peacekeeping and surveillance.

He said, “Before now, we used to have cases and clashes of illegal immigration. This community has its border with Cameroon. We owe it a duty to do our best to protect our people by encouraging them to report all suspicions of illegal immigration to security. That is why all the cases of illegal immigration we used to hear are now things of the past.”

“Let me especially thank the Federal Government for the efforts in fighting these illegal immigrants. As traditional rulers, we are doing our very best to support the government and we shall report all forms of illegal immigration to the security agencies,” he disclosed.

He said that the royal fathers would continue collaborating with the security agencies to identify and report all illegal migration cases to the appropriate authorities.

Another member of the Ikang Traditional Rulers Council, Bassey Effiom, called for unity of purpose among all citizens and residents of the state to tackle illegal immigration.

He said, “We must all come together no matter our political leanings or religious inclinations because this issue of illegal migration does not know political party or religious orientation. It is only through collective and focused efforts that we can win the war to guarantee the safety of our people.”

He lauded the state governor, Bassey Otu, and President Bola Tinubu for their proactive leadership and support to the people in the border community, and advised the citizens to abide by the guidelines issued by the government on illegal migration.

A youth leader, Felix Egbe, said the Bakassi Border is closed and well-guarded by the security agencies, including the Nigerian Customs Service.

Egbe revealed, “Some of them who used to cross over here are not coming again because the border is closed. Today is a very big market day; unlike before, they used to cross over here to buy things.

“Some of them will mask themselves and cross the water just to come and buy stuff here. But for now, security has taken over all the places and there are no reports of such acts again.

“Some of them who used to cross to our community will come and buy Nigerian-made drinks like beer and alcoholic brands. But, we have not seen them for some time now because the security system is very tight.”

[Punch]