President Bola Tinubu’s daughter and Iyaloja-General, Folasade Tinubu-Ojo, has been appointed Ambassador for the National Commission for Almajiri and Out-of-School Children’s Education.

The appointment was announced by the Commission’s Executive Secretary, Muhammad Sani Idris, during a visit to Tinubu-Ojo’s residence in Lagos.

In a statement by the Commission’s spokesperson, Nura Muhammad, on Sunday, Idris cited Tinubu-Ojo’s “passion for supporting disadvantaged communities, particularly Almajiri and out-of-school children,” as the basis for her selection.

Responding, Tinubu-Ojo expressed her appreciation, saying, “I am deeply honoured by this appointment and am committed to alleviating the plight of these vulnerable Nigerians.”

She also highlighted her father’s dedication to education, calling it “a lasting legacy for Nigerian children”.

“The president may change his team every hour like a child’s diapers. It won’t make his government work well unless he himself sits up. He should teach himself how to enlarge his vision beyond the narrow tunnel that opens at his backyard and ends inside his dockyard. We won’t stop telling him and the other owners of today that leadership is about service. It is not about how much they have locked up in their strong rooms and how many billions they spray in arrant oppression of the poor. We will keep reminding them of life after office. And that as they rule the town, they should endeavor to rule their homes also. Collapsing state affairs into the affairs of their home endangers the wellness of all”.

Patient walks unaided into the doctor’s consulting room. Patient soon suffers mismanagement. She goes pale and jerky, unconscious. Doctor gives his best shot – or so he claims. Patient is not responsive. Doctor strolls off, leaving the patient to sip his tea. Doctor comes back and sees worsening symptoms: Cold hands. Weak pulse. Fatigue. Incontinence. Dyspnea – respiratory distress. Restlessness. The clock ticks, and the patient’s condition deteriorates. Doctor sets up a symptom control team. Symptoms persist. Patient’s relatives accuse the doctor of incompetence and negligence. Doctor denies all charges and promises to do something. He ponders and sacks members of the symptom control team. A few other nurses also kiss the canvas. Doctor looks into anxious eyes and tells everyone that with that step he has taken, the sick should be well soon. The leader is the physician; the country they tend to is the patient.

Where vigilance tanks, a bad government is easily replaced with something worse. It is the same with team management. Where the leader is easily distracted or he distracts himself, a mortician calmly slips into the delivery team. In Ibn Butlan’s ‘Doctors’ Dinner Party’, we read of a certain gentleman who proclaims himself doctor after recovering from an illness. The story teller says: “God said to him: ‘Become a physician and destroy people! Take sick man’s money — that’s excusable — and send him to the grave.’” Doctor becomes rich, ostentatious and gilded. Author notes other things and prays: “God protect us and you from the misfortunes wrought by his hands…” A government with demonstrable lack of competence and empathy is a killer hospital. Its problem goes deeper than the names on its management list.

I refuse to join those whose drums are out because a cost-cutting president last week sacked five ministers and replaced them with seven. How is that oxymoronic step going to cure the nation of its chronic illness? I would rather seek therapeutic answers by asking why the sick fell into a coma. Was it the doctor’s fault? Or nurses’ wickedness? Or the consequence of the patient’s own life choices? Or the ailment is congenital? Or a combination of all of the above? If the fault lies with the caregivers, who then should sack whom? Who should be sacked? And, how is the sack of that someone going to correct the near-fatal error that has sent the country into this terrible distress?

Five ministers were fired last week by the big boss who hired them. I read celebratory posts from people mocking the sacked. Why should anyone be happy because someone fell from a height? People who inherited those widows danced and sharpened their teeth. The ones who lost their scepters sank into sofas of consolation: Every job must end one day either because the job takers are fired, retired or because they are hired elsewhere. Or as a consequence of death. I align with their logic. So, let no one rejoice that Tinubu asked five big men and women out of his powerhouse. Today’s hirer and the hired will also become ex one day. That is the solace of the dismissed.

As a consequence of that cabinet reshuffle, the government scrapped the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, and from its ashes has risen a humongous ministry in charge of regional development commissions. I call that new creation the ‘Ministry of Nigeria Affairs’ because virtually all regions will find rooms in its mansion. What sense does that make?

Certain big men in the Niger Delta are loudly condemning the scrapping of the Niger Delta ministry. One of them, Asari Dokubo, blames the whole of Bola Tinubu’s ethnicity for his government’s action. The agitator says in a purpose-made video that he would join forces with the North because “the Yoruba are betrayers.” Around the same time, I see the Muhammadu Buhari people loudly complaining about power outages in the North. They also throw innuendoes of the Yoruba as the cause and beneficiary of the darkness in the North. I saw all these and wondered why the angry wailers mistook the victim for the culprit. They are raining knocks on the head whereas it was the bottom that farted – Ìdí só, orí ni wón nkàn ní’kó.

Prolonged power outage is ongoing in the North. It is officially blamed on vandalism wreaked by bandits. The North can complain – and should complain if the state is failing them. But I find the Buhari people’s complaint particularly interesting – and galling. While in power, their principal was like Unoka, Okonkwo’s flute-loving father in Chinua Achebe’s ‘Things Fall Apart’. Achebe describes Unoka as a man famous “for the weakness of his machete and…hoe. When Unoka’s neighbours go out with their axe to cut down virgin forests,” the man sows his yams “on exhausted farms that take no labour to clear.” Such men, in Yorubaland, are identified with farming under the shade of palm trees. Where weeds do not grow, crops can’t do well there.

The Buhari corridor and all who egged on his regime or pressed the mute button while he was here should not insult us with complaints of lack of electricity, and should not make any demand on even the Tinubu government. I recommend to them the wisdom of Achebe’s Obiako. This character is told by an oracle: “Your dead father wants you to sacrifice a goat to him.” And, Obiako replies the oracle with indignation: “Ask my dead father if he ever had a fowl when he was alive.” Those asking for light today, was it not darkness they sowed yesterday?

That is for the fox, our angry Unoka. And, back to the cock of this regime. Where is the light it promised? It pledged to sanitize and fumigate the nation, north to south. When is that going to be?

With this government, austerity means ostentation. It’s been churning out one regional commission after the other while wearing the lapel of a lean government. On 26 February, 2024, President Tinubu presided over a meeting of the Federal Executive Council. We were informed after that meeting that the president had ordered a full implementation of the Stephen Oronsaye report which demanded a reduction in the number of federal government agencies. In furtherance of that directive, we were told that the president had constituted a committee to effect certain agencies’ mergers, scrapping, and relocations within 12 weeks. Today is 28 October, 2024 – eight months, two days after that directive, nothing serious has been heard of that directive. Or did I miss something? Instead of doing what it announced and celebrated with pomp, what we had last week tells how the government rates our intelligence.

On June 5, 2000, despoiled Niger Delta was given a development commission as its balm of Gilead by the Olusegun Obasanjo government. Because that troubled region had that commission, insurgent-wracked North-East demanded its own from Buhari and got it in 2017. Because the North-East got it, the South-West demanded its own from Tinubu and got it last month. The South-East received its own; the North-West also has; the North-Central too – all from Tinubu. This is one government that actively sells laxative but sees nothing contradictory in its eating mountains of pounded yam. Why do we need regional development commissions? I recently asked an ègbón, an Emilokan, if he sincerely thought a South-West Development Commission would be of any usefulness to the people of the region. His response: “Create another opportunity for sleaze among Yoruba politicians and their business associates. I was fundamentally against it but aligned eventually on the basis of ‘what is good for the goose…’ If the other regions are being awarded cash cows for the boys, why not us? When Nigeria becomes serious about development, we’ll jointly scrap all such distractive wastage…” I am sure if you asked around the other regions and your subject is as truthful as mine above, you would get the same answer. Now, what kind of country is this? And what kind of government cuts costs by increasing them?

Hunger dusts up strange, dangerous ideas. People’s suffering is unremitting. If a government functions as people’s undertakers, why should the people desire it? Why do we even need a government? Because it was failing tragically, a radio station in Poland recently stopped using human beings for its operations. It sacked all its journalists and did something novel. Last week, it brought in Artificial Intelligence (AI)-generated presenters. The result has been magical. A Nobel Laureate who died in 2012 was made to present a popular programme on that radio station last Tuesday. The audience heard him and applauded the undead.

Now, should we really have ministers as many as the sands of the desert? Can’t we live without the hordes of overpaid, overfed officials of the state? Or sell them to buy what eludes us? Those extreme questions you may find in every mouth that hasn’t tasted food since yesterday. And, truly, a government that fails in fulfilling its social contract with the people is not a government; it is a gang of pirates like the one led by one-eyed, one-legged Long John Silver in ‘Treasure Island’. John Silver sails under The Jolly Roger – pirates’ flag with white skull and crossbones; the ones here are at sea with our Green White Green. That is the sole difference.

The president may change his team every hour like a child’s diapers. It won’t make his government work well unless he himself sits up. He should teach himself how to enlarge his vision beyond the narrow tunnel that opens at his backyard and ends inside his dockyard. We won’t stop telling him and the other owners of today that leadership is about service. It is not about how much they have locked up in their strong rooms and how many billions they spray in arrant oppression of the poor. We will keep reminding them of life after office. And that as they rule the town, they should endeavor to rule their homes also. Collapsing state affairs into the affairs of their home endangers the wellness of all.

Basorun is the second in command to the Alaafin of Oyo. He may not be king but he rules his corner like a king. And, because power is wine, sweet and strong, it intoxicates the entire royalty. There was a Basorun Gaa in Oyo history whose sons reigned more forcefully than even the Alaafin. Samuel Johnson, author of ‘The History of the Yorubas’, records an instance: “One of them once engaged a carrier to whom he gave a load too heavy for him to carry, but he dared not refuse to do so. He walked behind the man, amusing himself with the sight of the man’s suffering from the weight of the load. He remarked in jest that the man’s neck had become so thick that he doubted whether a sword could cut through it. He suited his action to his words, drew his sword, and actually tried it! The man was decapitated. His body was left wallowing in his blood, and another man was compelled to take up the load.”

Powerful people see nothing wrong loading helpless people with super excess luggage. They call it sacrifice. They also won’t mind trying their swords on the calcified neck of the burdened- just to prove the point of their almightiness. They swim in mindless insouciance yet they deceive themselves with silly assurances of permanence. To them, every warning is a dangling, swirling sword, an act of treason. There was a king in a Yoruba kingdom who came with a name that defies death. He was Oba Maku (Maku means Don’t-die). The king launched his despotism the very day he ascended the throne. Because he was a king whose ways were not his people’s ways, the people soon skirted death around his name and turned it into a song. From street to street, loud was the echo of ‘When will Don’t-die Not die?’ I say that in Yoruba: Ìgbàwo ni Maku kò níí kú sí? The man reigned for only two months.

The impermanence of nothing is the consolation. Every era, no matter how painfully long, will eventually end. General Francisco Franco ruled over Spain from 1939 until his death on November 20, 1975. He was a dictator with a vast network of spies home and abroad. He muzzled the press and muffled the gong. Because his reign was long and very eventful, he never believed it could end. And when death was drawing his curtain he denied it was his door death was knocking. Oriol Pi-Sunyer captures that moment well in his ‘Political Humour in a Dictatorial State’ (1977). He writes: “In the final hours of his life, Franco becomes aware that a crowd is forming in the street outside his chamber. The semiconscious dictator asks an attendant what the subdued sounds are – ‘It is nothing, Excellency, just some people passing.’

As the crowd grows and the noise increases, this fiction cannot be maintained.

Franco: ‘I insist you tell me what is going on outside.’

Attendant: ‘The people, Excellency.’

Franco: ‘The people?’

Attendant: ‘Yes, the Spanish people.’

Franco: ‘What are they doing?’

Attendant: ‘The Spanish people have come to say goodbye.’

Franco: ‘Oh, where are they going?'”

“Against excellence in another [person], there is no way of defending ourselves except love.” Johann Goethe, VBQ, p 51.

This is the third time I have fallen in love with an artist/philosopher long before meeting him. The first and ever abiding one was Uncle Sam; the second ever green Victor Attah. This one coming so late in the day is God’s parting gift to me, and on the way out. I have only felt so happy about meeting a person for the first time five times in my life before.

Meeting Mudiaga Enejemo, Mudi, might be the last time before curtain call. Just as well. He is absolutely unique; just as each of my heroes are in their own ways. Henceforth, I can never pass through Mudi Lane, Anthony Village, named after the fashion/artist, philosopher without having the thrill a deeply religious person experiences when gazing at the symbol of their fate. I adore great artists and philosophers.

It was providentially pre-ordained that we should meet eventually. For years, I have been curious to know who owns the most beautiful work of art, a building, in Anthony Village, and one of the best in Nigeria, when it was built at the spot.

Of one thing I was sure; an artist who owns it. The two always well-manicured and tantalisingly green lawns in front, neatly marked off with snow white boundaries; the walkway between the two with small artworks on both sides; leading to the glass and chrome front door reveal a soul that like all great artists is fanatical about details. In my wildest imaginations, I thought it was a Museum; but there was no sign to that effect. I would have found a clever reason in my younger and more adventurous years to walk up to the door and ask questions.

Old age has its drawbacks; among which is fear of being ridiculed for suffering from dementia. Yet, deep in my heart, I wanted to enter that building; to find out more of the treasures that I instinctively knew were hidden behind those exquisite light grey walls. On Wednesday and Thursday, October 18 and 19, 2024, all my prayers were answered. I met the owner of the mysterious building and the next day, I was admitted into the building by Mudi himself. Nobody who had won the lottery could have been happier than me on that day. Everything inside the building surpassed my expectations – including my quiet prayer the night before that he would use white for the interior. It was all white inside; spotlessly white against which other artworks were set.

Even the avocado green guitar, like paintings on the wall and other works, was obviously in the right place. The visitor is challenged to find a speck of dust on the floor or a dark mark on any white wall. It was like being in a great Cathedral. You are awed by the fanatical attention to all the other details before you realise that Mudi is one of the most successful fashion designers in Africa. Our meeting was indeed providential; and later, I intend to show how the interview cast some light on the gloom which had descended on the nation since the World Bank asked Nigerians to abandon hope.

I was at Uncle Sam’s place for a meeting with Barrister Adegbite, who now spends eighty five per cent of his time attending to fish matters instead of legal briefs. Uncle Sam, who once stumbled into fish business and was bundled out of the sector, wanted to help the lawyer – who was in a fix. I was also in the fish business; until the great flood in Ibadan destroyed the fish ponds and all the fish swam away, undoubtedly into cooking pots somewhere free of charge. Olu Domingo was also there. A Nigerian-Italian, who must leave other nationals puzzled. “Italians are rascals everywhere in the world”; as we have been told. Nigerians are hardly welcome anywhere in the world; even in Ghana, South Africa, Libya or Republic of Benin. But, just as chlorine and sodium are deadly when swallowed, the combination gives us common salt – indispensable. Olu is like a rough diamond which, with the smallest brush, reveals the glitter beneath the surface dirt. A delight to meet. He was there also to join the fish rescue effort.

REMARKABLE DAYS

“I hate ingratitude more in a man than lying, vainness, babbling drunkenness or any taint of vice whose strong corruption inhabits our frail blood.” William Shakespeare, 1564-1616, VBQ p 103.

Suddenly, two guys stormed the balcony. One was in conventional outfit; and he was carrying hampers. The other was dressed in black trousers with all the pockets out and a dark yellow designer shirt with several logos. He struck me as an artist. It was Mudi; the man I had been dying to meet. It was the 30th anniversary of his business and he had brought the gift to Uncle Sam – the man who had not only encouraged him, but who actually gave him 100 dollars on the first visit to his studio. I always fall for anybody who demonstrates gratitude to those who helped along the way to the top.

And, here was a winner coming to express appreciation to one of those who built his ladder of success in stead of kicking them in the head as we frequently observe among politicians. More than ever, I decided to know more about him. I called Uncle Sam after the fish business to request for his phone number; in order to do what the media worldwide is established to do. Among our duties is to discover and promote talented people whenever and wherever we find them for economic and social development. I called him and requested for an appointment; which he readily granted for the next day. For me, it will remain one of the most remarkable days since starting as a media person in 1987. I got more than expected. Very rare.

THE ESSENTIAL MUDI

“A well written life is almost as rare as a well-spent one.” Thomas Carlyle, 1791-1881, VBQ p 131.

I am not even pretending to be writing Mudi’s biography now. At 56, looking like 40, he would need that to be done. What follows is just a sketch of a life already well-lived at such a young age in a profession which most of us treat with disdain because there are hundreds of thousands of mediocre for each genius practising it. An hour in his place revealed to me how honourable the art going into fashion designing is compared to other aspects of art. Essentially, it is a matter of a man or woman exposing his soul through the medium in which he is gifted. Two great artists, in different areas, have helped me to write this section.

“We must grant the artist his subject, his ideas, his theme; our criticism is applied to what he makes of it.” Henry James, 1843-1916. VBQ p. 17.

To that profound statement about all artists by one of the greatest writers who ever lived, another master of the world of creative people wrote.

“Great artists have no country.” Alfred De Musset, 1810-1857.

Bob Marley, and Fela Anikulapo made music their subject; Bruce Onobrakpeya and Ben Enwonvu, 1917-1994 chose sculpture; Sa’adu Zungur, 1915-1958, Chinua Achebe, 1930-2013 opted for writing to achieve immortality; and to fly the national flag globally.

Mudi has embraced fashion designing heart and soul. And, he is already an artist without country; except perhaps continental in outlook. The light grey kaftan he had on during the interview could have been made by a gifted fashion designer in Pakistan, Azerbaijan or Mauritania. But, he created it. There was nothing conventional about it; yet it seemed absolutely appropriate for every place and occasion on earth. He brands his designs Afro-centric.

DESERVES A BOOK TO ELEVATE NIGERIAN FASHION GLOBALLY.

“If you want to live for ten years, invest in shares, if you want to live for thirty years, plant a tree; if you want to live for ever, write a book.” That was the advice of a sage from Asia. Let me add an amendment to the last – “if you want to live for ever write a book or have at least one written about you.” Then, you would not have lived in vain. Mudi provided me with the broad outline of his life and vision which cannot be reduced to one column. Here are a few. He was the first Nigerian/African designer to advertise on billboards and television; and the first to design clothes for four African Heads of States in three countries. His office/studio had been visited by the King of Morocco in 2019. He was the first to have shops outside Nigeria – in Ghana, Cote d’Ivoire and Kenya. His South African shop was closed down on account of xenophobia; copy cats trying to emulate his genius drove him out by attacking his place. There is no need to list seriatim all that this fellow, with only School Certificate has done for himself and nation in one article. I want him to become the first fashion designer to have a full length book written about him.

Want to join me? Come on board.

WORLD BANK AND FG; ABANDON HOPE

“With such friends, who needs enemies?”

The World Bank, while commending the Tinubu government has made three statements that have fundamentally damned the administration and dumped the RENEWED HOPE document into the dust bin. First, the bank declared that the world’s poor nations will need 100 years to escape poverty. Second, WB said that Emilokan’s reforms must be sustained for 10 to 15 years to achieve results. Third, the global financial executor announced that the Nigerian economy is running on three flat tires. So, no hope even if Tinubu gets two terms; the fourth tire has already fallen off and there’s no spare!!!! Safe trip Fellow Nigerians.

It was a triumphant occasion. The venue was the Muhammadu Buhari Cantonment, Giri, Abuja. The joyous occasion was the destruction of over 2,400 illicit arms. The chief celebrant was the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons, NCCSALW. The five-star guests included the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, members of the National Assembly, representatives of the service chiefs, heads of other security agencies and top military brass.

The man given the honour to set fire on the arms, was the National Security Adviser, NSA, Malam Nuhu Ribadu. He waxed lyrical as he carried out this task. However, his claims that soldiers and policemen were selling arms to terrorists, bandits and criminals, were within days, challenged by the Defence Headquarters.

It is incredible that a security-challenged and financially-strapped country that needs weapons to defend its citizenry and territory, would destroy the arms in its possession. The weapons destroyed on this occasion are enough to arm over two battalions.

Even if the argument were that the destroyed arms are not standard issue in the Nigerian military, they should have been given to other security forces like the Civilian Multination Joint Task Force, JTF, which has been battling Islamic terrorists in the North-East. There are also the militia established by state governments which need arms to combat the bandits rampaging across the country.

As General Musa complained, even when our-debt-crippled country was able to raise the funds to buy weapons, our Western suppliers are sometimes unwilling to sell us arms for various reasons. He had lamented that: “Even with our money, it is difficult getting (military) equipment.” The Defence Chief claimed that the: “The Nigerian Armed Forces can secure Nigeria (and) the entire region”, but that the lack of needed weapons limits its capacity to do so. So how come a General with such knowledge find it comfortable to sit at an occasion thousands of arms are being destroyed?

Denying Nigeria the freedom to purchase arms even after raising the necessary funds, is not new. During the 1967-1970 Nigeria Civil War, the West refused to sell us the arms necessary to keep the country as a single entity.

Even when in our current war against terrorists and other criminals, we were desperately in need of arms, many countries refused to sell us weapons. It became so frustrating that the Jonathan administration tried to bypass countries by procuring cash and, flying around the world trying to buy weapons directly from manufacturers and suppliers.

On September 5, 2014, South African security at the Lanseria International Airport, Johannesburg, seized an invoice for helicopters and armaments intended for Nigeria, along with our $9.3 million cash for the intended purchase. About three weeks later, the South Africans seized another $5.7 million arms money from Nigeria.

So, given our experience and the fact that there are countries unwilling to sell us weapons, does it make sense for our security chiefs to destroy weapons in their custody?

Yes, the Director General of the Centre, retired DIG of Police, Johnson Kokumo, said the destroyed weapons comprised a mix of unserviceable, decommissioned and recovered arms that had been mopped up by security agencies across the country, but he also hinted that the next batch of weapons to be destroyed would be brand new ones.

He told the press that the National Centre has in its custody some seized weapons undergoing tracing, investigations and legal processes. Kokumo said: “These include the illicit weapons handed over to the Centre by the Nigeria Customs Service.” As is common knowledge, the weapons seized by the Customs and Excise are new manufactures imported into the country. He announced that: “These weapons categories would be destroyed upon completion of the proceedings during subsequent routine destruction exercises.”

So, what kind of thought process makes the security chiefs destroy weapons we need, but do not produce and, would need to buy?

Is it the same mentality that guides the propensity to award contracts for arms purchase rather than produce our needs and utilize what we have?

What is even more painful is that we have good pre-colonial and post-colonial skills in arms manufacture which have been conveniently repressed in preference for imported weapons and, dependence on imported arms.

In pre-colonial Nigeria, Awka was a major centre for arms production. The British colonialists set about destroying the home-forges for local gun production. So while the Europeans continued to improve their gun production like modernising those produced by the Danes which were known as the Dane gun, local gun manufacture was criminalised.

Although we became independent 64 years ago, all governments we have had continue to criminalise local gun production except that by the military.

But the local gun production knowledge in Nigeria has not only survived about two centuries of repression, but has also been vastly improved. This is to the extent that today, a wide variety of rifles, pistols, silencers and revolver shotguns recovered from criminals by the police, are locally made.

So, what stops government from organising such arms manufacturers into cooperatives, assisting them to improve their skills and, produce arms for the country?

The clearest evidence that we can manufacture world class weapons if only government would invest in local production rather than be stuck with an import mentality, was during the Civil War.

The Production Organisation of Biafra, RAP, headed by outstanding men like Colonel Ejike Ebenezer Aghanya, Gordian Obumneme Ezekwe, Felix Oragwu, Garrick B. Leton and Seth Nwanagu, produced wide variety weapons, including command detonation mines, rocket-propelled missiles, grenades, IEDs, landmines, surface-to-air and surface-to-surface missiles under a weapons system called Ogbunigwe.

Our attitude to arms production is like that to oil production, our principal means of economic survival; after 67 years we still export it in its crude form. For over 30 years, we have been unable to refine even for our local needs.

Now, what we are doing is to transfer state monopoly on fuel, to private monopoly.

This is why Dangote Refinery would go to court seeking N100bn from our collective wealth because the Nigeria Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, MDPRA, dared to issue licences for the importation of refined petroleum products. As far as Dangote is concerned, it is the only company in a country of over 200 million people that can sell these products. Dangote wants the courts to grant it monopoly. Isn’t it claimed that capitalism is about ‘choices’?

What kind of monkey business is it that the locally refined petroleum products system is afraid of the imported? Since the locally refined producer buys crude oil in Naira, does not incur freight, insurance, off-shore loading and port charges and, has no demurrage, why  is it not cheaper?

Doubtlessly, our thought process is faulty, we need realignment.

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has announced an investigation into the alleged abuse of a dispatch rider by a House of Representatives member from Abia State, following public outrage over claims that the lawmaker threatened to make the rider “disappear” for requesting payment for his services.

In a statement titled “Nigeria Police Reacts to the Humiliation of Dispatch Rider by Abia State House of Reps Member,” the FCT Police Command confirmed it was aware of the incident involving Hon. Alexander Ikwechegh and a Bolt driver, Mr. Stephen Abuwatseya, which took place on October 27, 2024, in the Maitama district of Abuja.

The statement detailed that “the FCT Command is actively handling the case following Mr. Abuwatseya’s official report at the Maitama Divisional Headquarters.”

The Police Force also cautioned the public against using the name or office of the Inspector-General of Police to intimidate citizens, emphasizing that such misuse of authority runs counter to the impartiality that the office of the IGP stands for.

The controversy began when a video surfaced online showing Ikwechegh allegedly berating and threatening Abuwatseya. In the video, the lawmaker purportedly questions the driver, saying, “Do you know where you are? Do you know who I am?” The driver, in response, simply asked to be paid for his service: “I don’t want to know, just pay me and let me go.”

The exchange escalated, with the driver insisting on his right to payment, stating, “I did a job for you, and you have to pay me, sir.” Reports indicate that the lawmaker refused to pay, allegedly calling the driver “very, very stupid” and issuing a chilling threat: “I can make this man disappear in the whole of Nigeria and nothing would happen.”

The video has sparked widespread outrage, with Nigerians condemning the alleged abuse of power. Human rights advocates have joined the calls for accountability, urging the police to thoroughly investigate the matter and ensure justice is served.

[Vanguard]

On October 26th, the final day of the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting in Samoa, the leaders approved the appointment of Hon. Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, currently Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration of the Republic of Ghana, as the incoming Secretary-General of the Commonwealth. Leaders further reaffirmed their commitment to tackling global economic, environmental and security challenges, while exploring ways to enhance resilience, sustainable trade and inclusive growth and emphasising the empowerment of youth and women.

In a statement to the media, Hon. Shirley Botchwey, Commonwealth Secretary-General elect, who became the 7th Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, noted that the election, indeed, made her the second successive woman to take up the office of Commonwealth Secretary-General, after Baroness Patricia Scotland, the current office-holder. With this decision (reached by concensus), the Heads of Government have continued the tradition of making this organization one that makes history.

Thus, it is fitting, to pay tribute to the late Queen, Elizabeth the Second, the former head of the Commonwealth, whose legendary wisdom, and calm, yet courageous stewardship for 70 years exemplified the potential of women’s leadership. “But this is not to deny the stewardship prospects of King Charles the Third, under whose leadership I look forward to working, alongside that of the Heads of Government and Board, as well as with other Commonwealth affiliate organizations,” she stressed in her statement.

According to her, this occasion marks a new chapter in the shared journey towards deepening democracy, peace, prosperity, and economic progress.

As she takes up the role, she was inspired by the diversity and resilience of the member states. These different states have distinctive difference in political culture, but share a common wealth of values. Hon. Shirley Botchwey expressed her vision is to build on these strengths, promoting trade, education, skills development and innovation for the teeming numbers of young people across Commonwealth.

She, however, promised to provide leadership and work tirelessly with member-states, and in collaboration with other international multilateral institutions, towards addressing climate change which presents a clear existential threat to Commonwealth. Her responsibility also include systematic harnessing of existing opportunities for transformation, and enhance the organization’s global voice.

Hon. Shirley Botchwey further pledged to prioritize inclusive and effective decision-making, leveraging technology to bridge gaps and amplify marginalized voices, capitalizing on her extensive experience in diplomacy, trade, defense, security, and communications.

She recognizes the fact that she has to effectively mobilize resources and efficiently manage them for the benefit of the Commonwealth. “Together, we can achieve climate resilience, promote economic transformation, and leverage technology to create opportunities for our young people. We can deepen democracy, good governance, intra-Commonwealth trade, build resilient and thriving societies, and resource our organization better,” underlined Hon. Shirley Botchwey.

Hon. Shirley Botchwey finally expressed gratitude to all and sundry, particularly to the President of the Republic of Ghana, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, her immediate boss as Foreign Minister and who later appointed her Foreign Minister. It was also announced that Antigua and Barbuda will host the next Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting. The Commonwealth will gather there in 2026.

The Commonwealth is a voluntary association of 56 independent and sovereign states which include both advanced economies and developing countries. It supports member countries to build democratic and inclusive institutions, strengthen governance and promote justice and human rights. The secretariat helps to grow economies and boost trade, deliver national resilience, empower young people, and address threats such as climate change, debt and inequality.

The International Day for Rural Women, celebrated globally on October 15, brings into focus the invaluable contributions of rural women to food production, community health, and sustainable development. Yet, in Nigeria, this day passed with little mention of a figure who championed rural women’s empowerment in her lifetime: Mariam Babangida. Her remarkable legacy has profoundly shaped the lives of rural women in Nigeria and set a foundation for social and economic growth that remains relevant today. With the theme of this year’s celebration being “Rural Women Cultivating Good Food for All,” it is a glaring oversight that Mariam Babangida’s efforts were not acknowledged. Her devotion to rural women deserves a place of honor in the country’s history, and here is why her legacy must continue to be remembered and celebrated.

Mariam Babangida, Nigeria’s former First Lady and wife of military president General Ibrahim Babangida, pioneered the “Better Life for Rural Women” (BLP) program in 1987. This initiative was unprecedented in its scale, vision, and impact, representing the first time a Nigerian First Lady took on a large-scale program dedicated to improving the quality of life for women in rural communities. Recognizing the unique challenges that rural women face, limited access to education, healthcare, and economic resources, Mariam set out to transform these realities. She saw that empowering rural women was not only a social responsibility but a pathway to achieving national development goals.

The Better Life Program addressed multiple aspects of rural life, from healthcare and sanitation to education, skill acquisition, and micro-entrepreneurship. Through the establishment of cooperatives, cottage industries, and community centers, it opened doors for rural women to gain financial independence, access to health services, and opportunities for self-empowerment. Mariam Babangida’s program elevated the status of rural women from largely unrecognized contributors to active participants in the nation’s economy.

Mariam Babangida’s contributions went beyond charity; her work set the stage for future programs aimed at women’s development and poverty alleviation. The Better Life Program created an environment that encouraged rural women to take control of their economic circumstances. It was one of the first initiatives that addressed rural women’s issues holistically, looking at the interconnected needs of healthcare, education, and economic opportunities. As rural women gained skills and resources, they became more active in their communities, contributing to economic growth and fostering local development.

Through this program, Mariam Babangida also made a lasting impact on agriculture, as rural women were encouraged to form cooperatives and embrace modern agricultural practices. This not only increased productivity but also improved food security within local communities, a goal still relevant in the context of this year’s theme. By placing emphasis on rural women’s role in food production, the Better Life Program directly addressed the idea of “cultivating good food for all.” The program laid a foundation that rural women, with their increased productivity and economic empowerment, could carry forward, thus enhancing national food security.

A key aspect of the Better Life Program was its focus on skill acquisition and educational opportunities for women who had often been marginalized in traditional educational settings. Mariam Babangida realized that education was the primary avenue for rural women to gain agency and independence. She worked with government bodies and NGOs to create literacy programs tailored to rural women, enabling them to participate in the economic and social lives of their communities with confidence.

Skill acquisition centers became a vital part of the Better Life Program, teaching women skills such as weaving, tailoring, soap-making, and other crafts that could be turned into income-generating activities. These skills allowed women to start their own small businesses, which had a ripple effect on local economies, as women were now contributing to household incomes and raising standards of living.

One of Mariam Babangida’s notable contributions was her work in healthcare and sanitation for rural communities. Recognizing that poor health limited the potential of rural women, she incorporated healthcare initiatives into the Better Life Program. Through vaccination campaigns, maternity care, and family planning services, the program helped reduce mortality rates and improve general health among rural women and their families. The provision of clean water facilities and sanitation education promoted healthier living conditions, which directly impacted productivity and overall quality of life in these communities.

The Better Life Program’s efforts in healthcare also underscored the relationship between women’s health and national development. By ensuring that women in rural areas had access to basic healthcare, Mariam Babangida underscored the importance of physical well-being as a fundamental right and a cornerstone for economic and social participation.

Mariam Babangida’s work did not end with her tenure as Nigeria’s First Lady. The legacy she left through her tireless work for rural women’s empowerment has inspired generations of Nigerian women leaders and advocates who have continued to advance her vision. Programs initiated by successive First Ladies and other women leaders have drawn inspiration from her blueprint. In a country where political transitions often lead to abrupt changes in policies and programs, the fact that the Better Life Program’s principles have been incorporated into various modern initiatives is a testament to Mariam Babangida’s enduring influence.

As the nation reflects on the achievements and challenges faced by rural women, it is essential to remember the foundations laid by Mariam Babangida. Her legacy is not just about the Better Life Program; it is a story of resilience, vision, and the conviction that women, no matter their background, deserve equal opportunities to thrive. Mariam Babangida’s work demonstrated that empowering women is an investment in a country’s future, a lesson that remains crucial for Nigeria’s growth today.

Mariam Babangida’s contributions should be celebrated annually, especially on International Rural Women’s Day, to remind Nigeria of her pioneering role in championing rural women’s empowerment. Celebrating her legacy also provides a platform to educate future generations about her transformative work and inspire them to continue the pursuit of gender equality and rural development.

In a country where rural communities remain underserved and where gender disparity continues to hinder national development, Mariam Babangida’s legacy is more relevant than ever. The International Day for Rural Women, with this year’s theme of “Rural Women Cultivating Good Food for All,” highlights the critical roles that women play in food production and community well-being. Recognizing Mariam Babangida’s contributions on this day would remind Nigerians of the power of women-led development programs and underscore the importance of empowering rural women to achieve sustainable development goals.

Honoring Mariam Babangida is not just about recognizing her achievements; it is about acknowledging the potential of rural women and the transformative impact that can come when they are empowered. It is about reminding Nigeria that the well-being of rural women is tied to the well-being of the nation. Mariam Babangida’s vision for rural women should inspire Nigeria’s future, encouraging policy-makers, community leaders, and individuals to continue supporting the empowerment of women in every corner of the country.

The Nigerian Army is reportedly facing a significant manpower shortage due to a high number of voluntary retirements, with the Mechanical Engineering Corps particularly affected.

Recent data shows over 1,008 soldiers have resigned in the past four years, including 196 in August 2024 alone.

In a memo dated October 16, 2024, the Mechanical Engineering Corps expressed concern over the exodus, instructing commanding officers to contact discharged soldiers interested in returning.

Lt Col A. Muhammed, who signed the memo sighted by The PUNCH, emphasized the importance of experienced technical manpower for effective equipment support.

It partly read: “The deployment of technical manpower is essential for effective and efficient equipment support in the field which is based on trades/expertise of technicians. NAEME is currently experiencing an acute shortage of manpower.

“The dearth of manpower in the Corps is further compounded by the large number of voluntarily discharged soldiers in recent years. Consequently, I am directed to request Comds/COs to reach out to discharged skilled soldiers in their AOR who are willing to be re-engaged to the NA on a contract basis.

“I am to add that names of discharged personnel willing to be re-engaged should be forwarded to this Headquarters NLT 19 Oct 24 using the attached proforma. Grateful to treat and acknowledge.”

Retired Brig Gen Bashir Adewinbi supported the initiative, stating that retired officers returning to service is common in many nations, though he highlighted the importance of recruiting individuals genuinely committed to military service.

He noted that while the military offers numerous benefits, commitment is essential to retaining personnel.

He told The PUNCH, “It is not unusual for retired Army officers to come back and participate in the security architecture of a nation. This practice is common in other advanced countries.

“If there is a plan to implement this here, I believe it is a good idea.”

Asked what could be done to discourage soldiers from resigning from the service, Adewinbi said the military must ensure those enlisted were genuinely interested in the service.

He said, “As of today, the military is well-organised and well-structured. The welfare system is adequate, and the training we received was never a source of complaint. If, as you said, they are leaving in their numbers, it suggests that something might be wrong with recruitment.

“The focus should be on recruiting people who are genuinely interested in serving, rather than those simply looking for employment because they have no other options.

“Those truly dedicated to the military will remain regardless of the challenges or conditions. They won’t abandon their duty. Unfortunately, some people in this country are merely searching for jobs.”

Brig Gen Peter Aro (retd) pointed out that many soldiers leave early to secure a better future, citing concerns over inadequate post-service support and systemic injustices.

He mentioned that soldiers face uncertain futures after retirement, with few resources or support structures available.

Aro expressed frustration that highly qualified personnel are often forced into early retirement, stressing the need for systemic change to prioritize soldiers’ welfare and dignity.

He said, “Retirement in the army comes in many forms — whether it’s reaching the mandatory service age, being deemed medically unfit, or voluntary retirement. But for those choosing to retire voluntarily, it’s often not just about leaving on their terms; it’s about survival, about securing a better future before they end up like so many forgotten veterans before them.

“These men and women dedicated their youth, their strength, and in some cases, their lives to safeguard this nation. And what do they have to show for it? Only a privileged few, those who were fortunate enough to interact with civilians learned the ropes of life beyond the barracks.

“They gained the wisdom and exposure needed to find alternative ways to make a living, but most weren’t so lucky.”

He also alluded to the injustice in the system as being responsible for why soldiers were resigning.

Aro said, “We’ve seen this injustice play out time and again in our country. Remember when a former Chief of Army Staff, without strictly following the Terms and Conditions of Service, forced officers into retirement long before they were due?

“These men and women were left adrift, unprepared for life after service, and today, many of them are struggling to survive. It’s clear from the indifference of our political leaders that the welfare of military personnel is not a priority.

“This is especially true for soldiers — those whose daily lives are bound by the discipline and sacrifices of service, leaving little room for the kinds of civilian interactions that might prepare them for life after the Army.

“While police and paramilitary officers often have the chance to mingle, invest, and build civilian connections, our soldiers —the ones who stand on the front lines defending the sovereignty of our nation — return from years of service without the same opportunities.

“Many veterans who risked their lives for this country don’t even have basic life insurance. The poor conditions of service in the Nigerian Army, coupled with the unchecked power of leadership to “hire and fire” at will, have driven many to seek early retirement simply to protect their futures.”

[NaijaNews]

Traditional and community leaders in the Sokoto East Senatorial District have religingushed their titles and declared support for Senator Ibrahim Lamido representing the senatorial zone.

The leaders at a press conference in Sokoto, said they decided to support the senator because of his drive in curtailing insecurity in their villages.

Lamido and two other federal lawmakers  had accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) led administration in the state of not adequately addressing the people’s concerns.

The senator, who is also an APC member, accused the party and Governor Ahmed Aliyu of not doing enough to support internally displaced persons scattered across the state and fighting against banditry.

Sokoto has, in recent years, become an epicenter of bandits and terrorists atrocities.

However, the traditional and community leaders, who attended yesterday’s press conference to show solidarity with Lamido are Ubandoman Gatawa, Danmalan Ubandawaki, Salihu Dealer Katukan Gobir, Isah Haruna, Dangaladima Bashar, Hassan S Fada, Yakubu Maigari, Malam Haruna Village head of Kumbuli, Alhaji Ibrahim Gatawa and Mu’azu Mohammed Gatawa.

Others are Nasiru Angi, Masur Yanusa, Shamsu Ahmed PRO, Garba Saidu, Malam Addini Matasa, Aliyu Mohammed, Mubarak Idris Gatawa, Maigari Lawali Shuaibu, Maigari Bashar Kanwuri, Maigari Sale Danfaru, Maigari Haruna Tsalba, Maigari Nasiru Hande, Maigari Umaru Danfaru, Maigari. jadi Taketsaba, Maigari Samaila Jatau, Maigari Hassan Maifata, Maigari Ayuba Kwadare.

The rest are Murtala Ubandoman Gobir, Abdulahi Ima Exco, Aliyu Mahe Gobir , Hassan Mailafiya, Chairman Tylor, Malam Labbo Mai Dussa, Samaila Katambara, Lawali Sarkin Makera, Babangida Sodangi, Alhaji Bale Gajare and Alhaji Malami Katuma.

The mass resignation of traditional titles comes after the resignation of the District Head of Sabon Birni, Abdullahi Muhammad Bawa.

Bawa, in his resignation letter said he resigned his position as district head of Sabon Birni with effect from October 16, 2024.

In the letter which he personally signed, Bawa said he resigned to show  solidarity with Lamido who he said showed more concern for the people.

Lauwali Shuaibu, the ward head of Taka-Tsaba, said their decision to drop their titles was in appreciation of Lamido’s commitment towards improving their wellbeing, noting that he “always comes to our rescue whenever bandits attack our people.”

He continued, “Our support will encourage Senator Lamido to continue with the good work he has been doing to our people.”

Another traditional ruler, who resigned his position, Jamilu Gwanda Gobir who holds the title of Ubandoman Sarkin Gobir, said their decision was aimed at salvaging Gobir district.

Another community leader, Alhaji Murtala Ubandoman, who dropped his title of Gobir in Sabon Birnin local government, said the senator’s development initiatives and his quest to free the area from the shackles of banditry and kidnappings are commendable.

“It’s a well-known fact that Sen Lamido brought Civilian JTF all the way from Maiduguri to fight bandits in Isa and Sabon Birni local government areas worst hit by banditry, and they have been recording success. As communities, we are living comfortably with them.

“Imagine the majority of our village communities in Sokoto East; after investing so much on our farmlands, we cannot have access to harvest our crops due to banditry.

“I have paid so many ransoms for my brothers and my family members, and as I am talking to you, my son is in the hands of kidnappers; I have nothing to secure his freedom.”

Also speaking, Jamilu Gwanda Gobir and Lawali Shuabu Taketsaba also commended the senator’s push to free their communities from criminal elements.

“It is up to the government to decide whether to dethrone us or allow us to continue as community leaders, but we will continue to support the good will of the Senator. What we are doing is for the benefit of our communities, and we are doing it with their support and cooperation.”

[Leadership]