The ongoing economic crisis has reached every corner of the nation, touching the rich and poor, urban and rural dwellers alike. With inflation rates climbing to about 33% as of August 2024, living costs have risen dramatically. Food prices alone have skyrocketed by more than 30%, placing a significant strain on household incomes. Families that were once able to get by are now struggling to afford necessities like food, fuel, and healthcare. 

This is not a crisis we can afford to ignore. 

Many Nigerians feel their government, both at the local and State levels, works against them rather than for them. Government institutions, law enforcement agencies, and tax offices are often seen as riddled with inefficiency and bribery. This makes navigating daily life even more difficult for average citizens, who must contend with constant bureaucratic hurdles. It’s the average citizen who bears the brunt of these systemic flaws. 

Amid these crises, Nigeria’s democracy itself is under threat. Citizens’ faith in democracy is fast eroding. When the economic, governance, and security systems fail, the public’s ability to participate in governance and enjoy basic rights promised by democracy is severely hampered. Nowhere is this more apparent than in Rivers State, a region whose political crisis has become a significant threat to Nigerian democracy.

Despite several attempts to stabilise the situation, the crisis deepens, creating nationwide concern. Due to its oil resources and geographical location, Rivers State, one of Nigeria’s most strategic states, has become a focal point for political conflict. The State’s political turmoil has far-reaching consequences for Nigeria’s democratic health, as instability in one of the nation’s most economically significant states sends shockwaves through the broader political landscape.

Efforts by political leaders and mediators to resolve the crisis in Rivers have so far proven unsuccessful. Tensions in the State are continuously high, making it a potential battleground for violence. This situation has become so concerning that democracy advocates across Nigeria worry about the ripple effects this crisis could have nationwide. If left unresolved, the unrest in Rivers may undermine the very foundation of Nigeria’s democracy, leading to a potential outbreak of violence.

One of the key reasons this crisis poses such a grave threat is its impact on democratic institutions. The judiciary, police, and security agencies,  which are meant to uphold the rule of law and protect citizens, were intensely scrutinised during the Rivers crisis. In particular, the judiciary has been accused of being politically influenced, leading to a loss of public trust in its impartiality. In Rivers, conflicting court rulings have further eroded confidence in the justice system. This manipulation of legal outcomes raises severe concerns about the future of democracy in the State and, by extension, the nation.

Similarly, the media’s role in shaping public perception and its potential impact on the crisis cannot be overlooked. The media, often accused of bias and sensationalism, can escalate or de-escalate the crisis through its coverage. Its influence on public opinion can either fuel or dampen the flames of political discord. This perception undermines the credibility of these institutions, making them seem like tools of political elites rather than defenders of public safety.

The perceived compromised stance of the Nigerian police on the Rivers crisis has increased the potential for violence, as citizens increasingly lose confidence in the capacity of police to be an impartial law enforcement institution. The general perception is that Nigerian police is an active participant in the crisis. 

The effect of this crisis is not limited to Rivers State alone. It also has broader implications for the national government, particularly the legislative and executive arms. Many Nigerians are now questioning the federal government’s ability to intervene and restore order in the State. The People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Nigeria’s main opposition party, also feels the strain. Because all the key actors profess to belong to the party, the party’s inability to resolve the political turmoil in Rivers is further damaging its public image. Already viewed by many as an ineffective opposition, the PDP risks losing even more public trust as the crisis drags on. A 2023 public opinion poll showed that only 34% of Nigerians had confidence in the PDP, compared to 42% in 2021. The internal divisions within the party, exacerbated by the conflict in Rivers, threaten to fracture it further, potentially weakening Nigeria’s democratic process.

At the core of the Rivers State crisis is a fierce power struggle for control over the State’s vast resources and a vague unknown entity called ” political structure”. Unfortunately, rather than focusing on the development of the State and the welfare of its people, political actors in Rivers are more concerned with personal gain. The fierce competition for political dominance has led to violence, instability, and the neglect of the State’s economic potential. Despite being one of Nigeria’s resource-endowed states, Rivers remains underdeveloped, with inadequate infrastructure and high unemployment. In 2023, the unemployment rate in the State was estimated to be 33%, reflecting the failure of successive governments in the last ten years to translate its natural resources into tangible benefits for its citizens.

Several factors have exacerbated the crisis, including personal ego clashes between political actors, a sense of imperial entitlement among the elite, and the combative nature of political discourse in the State. Political figures in Rivers often engage in inflammatory rhetoric with little regard for diplomacy or civil discourse, which does not represent the average Rivers man who is decent and polished. This toxic communication has only deepened the divisions, making resolution more difficult. However, there are potential solutions to this crisis. Dialogue, compromise, citizens’ action and focusing on the common good can help bridge the political divide. It’s essential for all stakeholders to unite against the crisis, setting aside personal ambitions for the greater good. None of the actors should assume the role of Emperor-in-Chief of Rivers State. It would only lead to self-destruct.

Rivers’ current political crisis bears a troubling resemblance to the events in Western Nigeria during the early 1960s. Known as the “Wild Wild West” era, that period of political instability, violence, and lawlessness culminated in Nigeria’s first military coup in 1966. The crisis in Western Nigeria showed how unchecked political impunity and violence could threaten the very fabric of democracy. Many fear a similar outcome could occur in Rivers if the political actors involved do not change course. The failure to learn from history may turn Rivers State into a ticking time bomb, threatening the country’s democratic future.

Democracy thrives on institutions that remain impartial and strong, but developments in Rivers State threaten critical guardrails like security agencies and the judiciary. Security forces, particularly the police, have been accused of aligning with political factions, eroding public trust and escalating violence. Former President Goodluck Jonathan has voiced concern that the conflicting judgments issued by the judiciary on political matters are eroding confidence in the justice system. The Chief Justice of Nigeria and the National Judicial Council must step in and save the judiciary from self-destruction arising from the Rivers’ crises. 

Governor Siminialayi  Fubara has a duty to steer Rivers towards stability. Having been elected to govern, he is responsible for driving the development of the State and should be allowed to provide leadership. His failure to discharge that responsibility of leadership will stain his legacy. Former Governor Nyesom Wike, now the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, must focus on his new role and allow the current governor to handle Rivers’ challenges.

As history has shown, violence is not a solution to democratic issues. The burning of Local Government Area secretariats and other violent acts break the rule of law. Such actions damage the State’s reputation, set her development in reverse gear, and undermine the very foundations of democracy. Political actors must recognise that self-help and violence are counterproductive in resolving democratic challenges. The Inspector General of Police has to live above board and act in the spirit and letter of the law to protect lives and properties. 

Political leaders involved in the Rivers crisis must urgently exercise restraint and responsibility. The people of Rivers deserve a break from the constant chaos and conflict that has plagued their State. Rivers’ people who bear the brunt of this crisis must rise to the occasion, foster discussions, express dissatisfaction with irresponsible politicians and demand good conduct.

As a stakeholder in Rivers’ politics and her development, speaking out is my moral duty. Silence is no longer an option in the face of such widespread destruction and lawlessness. 

I refrained from commenting on the crisis for nearly a year, hoping that reason would prevail. However, it has become clear that without solid voices defending democratic values, the state risks descending further into instability. Intellectuals and other thought leaders must step forward to provide reasoned discourse and help guide the State through these turbulent times. Rivers risks sliding into anarchy without these voices, and Nigeria’s fragile democracy could be at risk.

Nigeria has changed dramatically in the last few decades. Unfortunately, it is not for the better. Strange events and ugly developments that were hitherto unimaginable in this part of the world a few years ago have become our daily reality. Going through regular national news reports and commentaries, one finds it difficult to accept that this is still the same country we grew up in — with so much hope and expectations. A little while ago, many would have laughed off the idea of openly raising money through social media channels to pay ransom to kidnappers. When in the past we read reports of suicide bomb attacks and similar acts of terror in places like the Middle East and Afghanistan, did we not convince ourselves that such occurrences were impossible here? Today we know better. On the economic front, things have changed even more dramatically. Neighbours whose compatriots once flooded the streets of our urban centres in search of jobs and means of survival now mock us openly, deride our currency and make jest of us on social media platforms. Who could have thought this possible in the 1970s or even 2000s? Shall we talk about the alarming poverty and unemployment rates, the unmitigated collapse of public education, loss of faith in public institutions and all the other socio-economic problems that have forced many bright minds to pack their bags and move elsewhere (the ‘japa’ syndrome) because for them, there is just no other way to make it. How about millions of families for whom the bare necessities of life have become articles of luxury? It gets more alarming when one realises that majority of the families and individuals who would now think twice before buying a regular loaf of bread were until a few years ago, comfortable middle-income earners.

We were once a nation of optimists who held very strong hopes that we were on the ascent on the development ladder. It would have been very difficult to believe that we will still be struggling with electricity problems in 2024. The assurance was that by the dawn of the new millennium, the problem of perennial power failure would be a thing of the past.

The truth, and we must never be ashamed to admit it, is that we have failed to live up to the expectations of millions of people around the world who had imagined in the 1950s and early 1960s that this land will attain superpower status, or something very close, by the dawn of the new millennium. A lot has gone wrong in the last 64 years of our political independence but the least profitable way to use our time at this auspicious gathering is to devote any part of it to blame trading. We know of course that for many politicians and many public commentators, our worst setback was the incursion of the military in national politics. The military on their part had often cited “patriotic zeal” and failure of the “political class” for their unsolicited interventions. For the masses, however, there is no distinction between the military rulers and the political elites; both are simply lumped together as “leaders” and blamed for the seemingly unending woes of the country. These “leaders” include bureaucrats in the civil service, university administrators, judicial officers, community leaders and everyone else who exercises some form of authority in different jurisdictions. In a continuing cycle of blames, the “leaders” often point to the “system” for its failure and this is always supported by claims of coming to power with “very good intentions.” Unfortunately, there is no clarity on the “system” construct and how to interrogate its involvement in our national woes. The truth is that the people are tired of the regurgitation of excuses by those with access to public microphones. They just want things to work — their children going to schools where they are taught in a conducive environment by properly trained and motivated teachers; they want access to basic amenities including electricity, pipe-borne water and good roads. Our people want a community where the institutions of state are effective and responsive; they want the emergency services to respond as soon as they are contacted, without hindrances or excuses, they want to go to the courts and get justice in good time, they want to go to bed each night with both eyes closed, certain that they will not be jolted awake by masked gunmen, or find themselves in the middle of nowhere, surrounded by kidnappers for whom the sacredness of human life is an abstract idea that can only be scorned.  For our young ones, all that they ask is an opportunity to make a living and pursue their dreams without structural limitations. It is unfortunate that many of us are yet to fully appreciate the haemorrhage of human talent from our country fuelled by the ‘japa’ phenomenon but the situation has assumed an alarming proportion. As someone who has worked with hundreds of very smart young people in different capacities, it breaks my heart to see that so many of them have been forced by circumstances to take their talents and values to other places. We may not like what is happening but unfortunately, not much has been done to convince the younger generation of Nigerians that there would be light at the end of what has been a very long, dark tunnel. Our best brains in health sciences, software engineering, and finance could have stayed back to serve their fatherland if we had put our acts together.

 Commendations and appreciations are in order to the brave and courageous ones who have resisted the temptation to leave. Thank you for your patriotic services, that is if you are not waiting for an opportunity to leave! At any rate, it is depressing to observe that the opportunities we took for granted at the conclusion of our tertiary education in the 1970s and 1980s have disappeared for the majority, however brilliant they may be. So, we have clearly regressed. It may not be very pleasing to our ears but the truth is that all of us, in one way or the other, have contributed to this sorry state of affairs. For many of us who had the advantage of quality education in public schools, the idea of training our own children in private schools, or perhaps overseas for those who can afford the cost, tells a pathetic story of its failure. There is no mild way of saying it because we refused to pay attention to what was unfolding before us. What is happening today is that we are simply paying for our failure to read the signs and do what was needed to resist the destruction of the structures and institutions that helped us to fulfil our dreams forty, fifty years ago.

We must now become very desperate to undo whatever it was that dimmed the hopes and dreams of an entire generation. The theme of this Conference, Governance Reimagined: Mapping the Future, is very apt for a time like this because it invites us to reflect on where we are and then imagine where we could be if we made a few but very important foundational changes. As we had said on several platforms, getting out of the present quagmire requires a new paradigm because just like Albert Einstein said, “We cannot solve our problems with the same level of thinking we used when we created them.” The assignment before us is to evolve new ways of tackling the existential problems that confront us because we shall be doomed if we remain aloof and imagine that we shall be spared when the ship ultimately wrecks. The unfortunate truth is that there may be no life boats to jump into.

We are often not as powerless as we imagine especially in a democracy where the king has the same voting right as a commoner. The reality of the time invites us to gird our loins and get to work. The first step to progress is to believe that Nigeria is not beyond redemption and that we have within us, all that is required to fix it. It is also important to appreciate that there is very little we can do about the past but if we start doing the right thing today, we can remap the future as the theme of this Conference invites us to. The natural question to follow is: what is the right thing? How can a young accounting professional be the champion of the new paradigm that can turn things around for a country of about 220 million citizens? What new paradigm are we even talking about? Why is clarity of essence in this conversation? Simple: The days of empty jargons are long gone because we can no longer mask our failures with words that have no meaning to the ordinary person. It will therefore serve us well to understand what we seek to achieve, and what is expected of us as individuals and as a collective.

One, the right thing speaks to our obligations and duties as citizens. Thankfully, we learnt so much about citizenship even as pupils in primary school. The time to make the most of that knowledge might just be now. As accountants, I am certain that almost everyone in this room pays their taxes and other statutory fees to the government regularly so we may not have much of a problem in that area. How about being effective in our responsibilities as leaders, discharging our duties faithfully and to everyone, without ill-will or affection? How often and quickly do we contact the law enforcement agents when we are confronted with inordinate requests or presented with evidence of fraudulent transactions in the course of our duties? Do we see the wrong things and then choose the convenience of inaction? Do we seek to be part of the wrong thing for financial or other benefits? Do we still keep faith with our civic obligation of joining the process of electing leaders who will serve the best interest of the people or are we often too busy that we concede our rights to participate in the electoral process to persons who are easily manipulated — individuals who are only motivated by chants and lures of ethnicity and religious posturing? How many of us are active in the political circuit or do we only consider ourselves as ‘core professionals’ who have no business being in politics? Well, the evidence of the last 25 years of democratic practice has shown that politics should be everyone’s business because its outcome impacts everyone. Like Charles de Gaulle once said, “politics is too serious a matter to be left to the politicians.”

These are excerpts from the Lead Presentation by Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, the Executive Governor of Abia State at the 54th Annual Conference of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria on Tuesday October 8, 2024, at Abuja.

At least 1,000 members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kano State have defected to the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), aligning themselves with the Kwankwasiyya movement led by Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.

The defection took place in Tofa and Ghari Local Government Areas of the state.

They were welcomed by the state party chairman, Dr. Hashimu Suleiman Dungurawa, during a ceremony held at both locations.

Daily Trust reports that the event was marked by the flag-off of the NNPP’s chairmanship campaign ahead of the upcoming local government elections.

Among the notable attendees were the NNPP candidates for the elections, Yakubu Ibrahim Adis of Tofa and Hashimu Mai Sabulu of Ghari.

Both candidates voiced confidence in NNPP’s growing strength in the region, especially with the influx of new members.

The mass defection is seen as a significant boost for the party as it prepares for the elections, solidifying its foothold in Kano, a key base of Kwankwaso’s political influence.

[DailyTrust]

The Divisional Police Officer of Agbarho Police Station in Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State was ambushed and killed on Sunday night.

The Delta Police Command confirmed the incident to The Nation on Monday morning. 

Spokesman of the Command, SP Bright Edafe, said: “It is confirmed, the DPO Agbarho was killed and the Orerokpe DPO was injured. It was an ambush”.

The DPO was said to have resumed at the station just a few days ago.

According to sources, the DPO with his Orerokpe counterpart, CSP Paul and their men were ambushed around 1am at Owodokpokpo – the rail station axis of the town, while on their way for an operation. 

It was learnt that the Orerokpe DPO was rushed to an undisclosed hospital in critical condition. 

Several residents of the area who spoke with The Nation on Monday morning recounted their sleepless night as a result of the heavy sounds of gunshots.

[TheNation]

The Minister of Sports, John Enoh, has condemned the Libyan authorities’ treatment of the Super Eagles team ahead of its second leg match slated for Tuesday in the country.

The Nigerian contingent, who were billed to land in Benghazi for the second leg of their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Libya, scheduled for Tuesday, was unexpectedly diverted mid-flight to Al Abraq, a small airport typically reserved for hajj operations.

The unexpected diversion left the players and officials stranded without any assistance from the Libyan Football Federation, which failed to provide transportation.

Reacting to the development in a statement on Monday, Enoh said he had reported the incident to all necessary authorities, adding that the focus was the safety of the senior men’s team.

The minister described the current situation of the Super Eagles as an ‘almost hostage’ situation.

The statement reads, “I strongly condemn the obnoxious treatment meted out to players and officials of the Senior National Team, the Super Eagles, who arrived in Libya yesterday, the 13th of October, for the reverse version of the match played on Friday in Uyo, the AFCON 2025 Group D qualifiers.

“The National Team was en route to Benghazi but was diverted on approach the airport(with very scant attention to their safety) to Al Abaq Airport, which is hours away from Benghazi, where their match is slated to take place.

“All through the night, I have escalated the matter and involved all necessary authorities. From the Foreign Affairs Minister, the National Security Adviser, the DG NIA, Amaju Pinnick, our CAF Executive member. I have also remained in touch with both the president of the NFF, who is on the ground with the team and the Chairman of Value Jet, owners of the plane that airlifted the team to Libya.

“All hands must be on deck to protect our National Team. The Team have succinctly stated that they have been unattended to for upwards of about 15 hrs since arrival, with no food, no accommodation, left in a mosquito-infested environment and cordoned off by Libyan security not to step out of the airport, and they have access to nothing. To say the least, they face an almost ‘hostage’ situation. These are sportsmen set to compete in an AFCON qualifying match come Tuesday!

“For now, our primary concern is the safety of the members of our national team. With the events of the past hours, their safety is not guaranteed, and the team insists they’re unable to go ahead with the match not just because of the trauma and consequent psychological torture but also because of fear for their safety.

The minister stated that he had directed the Nigeria Football Federation President to lay a formal complaint to the Confederation of African Football to take action on the matter.

He said, “As Sports Minister, I have instructed the NFF president to lay a formal complaint to CAF without prejudice to any actions already taken. This must be on record and thoroughly addressed. This morning, I was on a conference call with the CAF President and CAF Secretary General.

“While the CAF President’s concern seems to be what to do to get the national team to participate in tomorrow’s match, I have instead informed CAF that the concern of the Government and people of Nigeria is first, the safety of the team and their safe return, urging that CAF should focus on working with us to achieve this. There must be a serious adverse conseqùence to the Libyan football federation for this unspeakable behaviour.

“This can not be done by insisting that Nigeria still takes part in this match, given the very obvious situation. I strongly condemn the obnoxious treatment meted out to players and officials of the Senior National Team, the Super Eagles, who arrived in Libya yesterday, the 13th of October, for the reverse version of the match played on Friday in Uyo, the AFCON 2025 Group D qualifiers.

“The National Team was en route to Benghazi but was diverted on approach the airport(with very scant attention to their safety), to Al Abaq Airport, which is hours away from Benghazi, where their match is slated to take place.”

Enoh stated that he has escalated the ill-treatment meted out to the Super Eagles by the Libyan authorities since they landed at the Al Abaq Airport on Sunday to all concerned authorities.

He added, “All through the night, I have escalated the matter and involved all necessary authorities. From the Foreign Affairs Minister, the National Security Adviser, the DG NIA, Amaju Pinnick, our CAF Executive member.

“I have also remained in touch with both the president of the NFF, who is on the ground with the team and the Chairman of Value Jet, owners of the plane that airlifted the team to Libya. All hands must be on deck to protect our National Team.

“The Team have succinctly stated that they have been unattended to for upwards of about 15 hrs since arrival, with no food, no accommodation, left in a mosquito-infested environment and cordoned off by Libyan security not to step out of the airport, and they have access to nothing.

“To say the least, they face an almost ‘hostage’ situation. These are sportsmen set to compete in an AFCON qualifying match come Tuesday! For now, our primary concern is the safety of the members of our national team.”

The world is in turmoil. Various peoples are planning, strategising and re-strategising. The Middle East is meeting, especially as war is being brought to its doorsteps. The Americans want their November elections quickly out of the way so they can focus on their domination the world, irrespective of who wins the elections.

Their European first cousins are quite busy with the same agenda, but also how to handle their domineering first cousin in the North. Some ask: should Europeans not abandon the unwinnable war in Ukraine just as Benjamin Netanyahu has abandoned the Israeli hostages in Gaza and, let President Zelensky fool himself around the world with his stupid “Victory Plan”?

Russia and China are fairly focused even as South America and the Caribbean are uniting to find solutions to their problems.

All are busy strategising, except Africa bogged down with an African Union, AU, which has impaired vision and a poor leadership at its Commission whose chair, Moussa Faki Muhammad, is beholden to a fumbling France. As the rest of the world prepares for a possible international conflagration, African leaders are busy hopping from one foreign capital to the other attending ‘summits’.

When African leaders fly to Washington attending US-Africa Summit, Beijing for China-Africa FOCAC, Tokyo for Japan-Africa TICAD, Moscow for Russia-Africa Summit, Istanbul for Turkey-Africa Summit, Seoul for South-Korea- Africa Summit, Brussels for EU-Africa ‘Partnership’ and is summoned by a confused Zelensky for an Ukraine-Africa Summit, what time would they have to govern? Are there no costs to the African countries for these travels with retinue of officials who must be paid Estacode? The 55 African countries are behaving like cows led by a foreign herder or his under-aged child, armed with nothing more than a stick.

 While we wait for the next African leaders’ summit, perhaps called by Kosovo, it is time we start thinking. For a start, why can’t African leaders have a common position at these endless summits rather than allow the host to pull individual African leaders into a side room for so called bilateral talks?

Africa is suffering from such low esteem that after October 4, 2024 when the European Court of Justice, ECJ, ruled that European countries must stop stealing the fisheries and agricultural products of Western Sahara and, the European Union arrogantly vowed to continue, no African country raised a voice! Yet the Europeans are supposed to be our partners who for centuries have been lecturing the world about separation of powers and obeying court judgements. So, why don’t we have the courage to tell them to obey the final judgement of their own court?

A fundamental thing Africa lacks is leadership, and you do not need to be an elected or appointed leader of the AU, to provide that leadership. One of the most trying periods in Africa was in 1975-76 when the US insisted that the pro-people MPLA party in Angola, must be stopped from governing the new country. Rather, it instructed Africa to choose one of its two puppets: Holden Roberto of the FNLA or Jonas Savimbi of UNITA.

 When this was resisted, the US cobbled a force composed of the FNLA, UNITA, American mercenaries and Apartheid South Africa’s military to overrun Angola. When this was not working well, it sent its Secretary of State, Henry Kissinger, on a trip through Africa directly warning African countries not to recognise the MPLA government. But at the January 11, 1976, OAU, now AU, Summit in Addis Ababa, then Nigeria Head of State, General Murtala Muhammed, stood up to denounce the US. He declared that: “Africa has come of age. It’s no longer under the orbit of any extra continental power. It should no longer take orders from any country, however powerful.”

Nigeria was not holding any position in the continental organisation when it took that principled stand that swayed the continent and, led to the recognition of the MPLA government.

Today, 48 years later, Nigeria needs to once again, step out to lead Africa out of a quagmire. First, let me alert the African people that the joint statement by the EU President von der Leyen and High Representative/Vice-President Josep Borrell that Europeans will not obey the European Court ruling on resources being stolen from Western Sahara, is not so much about a wilful and pointed rejection of a decision of their own court. It is more a plan to ensure a type of unending Israeli-Palestinian conflict in Africa. The Palestinian conflict has its roots in the November 2, 1917 colonial Britain gift of Palestinian lands to European Jews and adherents of Judaism. Britain gave the lands it did not own, to other peoples.

This is what the United States also did in Africa. On December 4, 2022, it issued its infamous ‘Proclamation on Recognizing The Sovereignty Of The Kingdom Of Morocco Over The Western Sahara.’ It read in part: “I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim that, the United States recognizes that the entire Western Sahara territory is part of the Kingdom of Morocco.”

So, the US purports to give the Western Sahara lands it does not own, to Morocco. What the European Union is doing, is simply to implement the US proclamation which will ensure an unending conflict on the African continent.

Nigeria needs to step in and lead Africa out of this Euro-American trap. What we need to do is first to tell the EU it cannot be lawless in Africa. Two, that Europeans must obey their own court by stopping the theft of Western Sahara wealth. Three, drag the EU to the International Court of Justice, ICJ, over the matter just as South Africa, dragged Israel over the massacre in Gaza. Four, take the EU and its leadership before the United Nations. Five, demand that Morocco obeys the outstanding judgements of the ICJ, the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the European Court. Six, get the AU to sanction Morocco for its occupation of a member country, and assist the Saharawi to live in peace within secured borders.

To effect these, the Tinubu administration should immediately stop any trade with Morocco on products like phosphate and fisheries looted from Western Sahara. It should ban all sardines from Morocco unless the latter can prove that they are not from Western Sahara waters. Also, it should stop the Nigeria-Morocco gas pipeline passing through Western Sahara unless it gets the endorsement of the POLISARIO government.

Generally, Nigeria should help get Africa to reset so it is no longer played around like ball on the world field.

Super Eagles forward, Victor Boniface, has raised his voice after the team were left stranded at Al Abraq International Airport in Libya, ahead Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against the Mediterranean Knights.

Blueprint reports that Super Eagles players and officials were stranded at the airport after arriving in Libya on Sunday evening, a development which has prompted the NFF to mull boycotting the game.

Speaking on the incident via his X account on Monday morning, Boniface, a Bayer Leverkusen forward said the Nigerian team have been stranded at the Libyan airport for about 13 hours.

“Been at the airport for almost 13 hours no food no wifi nowhere to sleep. African we can do better,” Boniface wrote.

[blueprint]

Last week, I attended the book launch of renowned author and writer, Professor Tunde Olusunle. He launched two books. One of them is *Oriṣiriṣi: Vistas on contemporary politics in Nigeria.* In the book, the author noted how “Nigeria’s political class has perfected the art of recycling mediocrity,” One of the highlights of the book is “leadership ineptness”. I can bet that if the author had delayed the book launch, he would have added the proposed *Bola Ahmed Tinubu Federal University of Nigerian Languages* to the list of *Oriṣiriṣi!*

What God cannot do, does not exist. A bill seeking to establish the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Federal University of Nigerian Languages has passed its first reading in the House of Representatives. For the first time, Nigerian languages will be taught in a specialised university. The reason is simple. Nigerian languages are well sought after around the world, including my native *Igala* language in Kogi State. I am also glad because the *Ngas* language in Plateau State would also gain prominence and my wife would be happy. I can’t thank Rt. Hon Benjamin Kalu, the deputy speaker of the House of Representatives enough for sponsoring such an important bill in the country’s legislative annals.

From what I gathered, the school would be located in Aba, in Abia state, and aims to “promote the study and use of Nigerian languages and culture for national development.” The institution will offer academic and professional programmes, including diplomas, degrees, and postgraduate research with a focus on Nigerian languages and cultures. It aims to “produce socially mature persons with the capacity to communicate, understand, and use Nigerian languages for national development”. We indeed have great thinkers in the country.

The last time I checked, there are *62 federal universities in Nigeria.* This almost works out at two federal universities per state in the nation’s 36 state structure. This number is too low for Rt Hon Benjamin Kalu and his co-sponsors. They want it to be at par with state universities across the country and for the larger population to be “socially mature to communicate, understand and use the Nigerian languages for national development.” This is good because the only problem they have identified is that Nigerians are not socially mature in the use of national languages, and it has hindered sustainable growth and development in the country.

Let me put it simply. The sponsors of this bill need to be chaperoned to Eagle Square in the “three arms zone” in Abuja and thoroughly flogged. The consultants who developed the concept notes should be conscripted into the Nigerian Army and deployed to the theatre of counter-insurgency operations in the North East. Let them use their conceptual “ingenuity” for the benefit of the country up there. This is what they have reduced the country to. It might be a political strategy as the proposed university would be cited in Aba, a city that is known for commerce and industry. However, what I know is that there is a *National Institute for Nigerian Languages (NINLAN),* also in Aba, Abia State. According to relevant information, “NINLAN is an Inter-University Centre for Nigerian Language Studies, under the regulation of the National Universities Commission (NUC) in Aba and established in 1993 as the apex institution for research, teaching, documentation, and coordination of studies in Nigerian languages.”

NINLAN’s mission is “to have accurate documentation of all Nigerian languages and develop standard orthographies for them by the year 2025, promote the study and use of Nigerian languages and to be the apex world-class centre for teaching, learning, and research into Nigerian languages, leading ultimately to a linguistic foundation for national unity, industrialization and socio-economic growth.” What I do not know is whether the plan is to change NINLAN to Bola Ahmed Federal University of Nigerian Languages. More so, NINLAN is a Federal Government tertiary institution and a unique and specialized tertiary educational Institution that runs a range of programmes. For example, the Institute currently runs three academic programmes. Its National Certificate of Education (NCE) programme is a combined honours programme in a Nigerian language and any other subject.

The Nigerian Language options include Efik, Fulfulde, Hausa, Ibibio, Igbo, Kanuri, Tiv, Urhobo and Yoruba. The Institute runs a Sub-Degree/Diploma Programme in Nigerian Languages, Communication Studies, Education, Linguistics, Library and Information Science, Translation Studies, and French, leading to the award of Diploma. It also runs Postgraduate diploma courses in Education (PGDE), Linguistics (PGDL), Translation Studies (PGDTS), Library and Information Science (PGDLIS), Communication Studies (PGDCOM); and a 12-month Graduate Conversion Programme for Graduates of disciplines other than Nigerian Languages.

Now here is the main gist. In August 2024, the federal government approved the upgrade of the National Institute for Nigerian Languages (NINLAN) into a degree-awarding institution to offer full-time degree programs in a range of disciplines that includes Bachelor’s degrees in Early Education, Business Education, Library and Information Science, Igbo and Community Studies, Igbo Language, Linguistics, and Mass Communication. Starting from the 2024/2025 academic session, NINLAN will deliver these courses in affiliation with Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka.

In the light of the above revelation, I do not know what Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu is up to with the quest to establish a Bola Ahmed Tinubu Federal University of Nigerian Languages in Aba again. Is it to rival the National Institute for Nigerian Languages? Because his proposal is a very obvious duplication. Maybe he wants to add to the list of federal universities in his home state as the deputy speaker of the House of Representatives. Maybe he wants to position himself for relevance in the political hierarchy of the state and the country. And the choice of name for the proposed institution is indicative. These are my assumptions and I stand to be corrected. Did I remind us that Nigerian language are thought in most conventional Nigerian universities? Have we forgotten the long existing *Institute for African Studies* at the University of Ibadan which is a repository of various Nigerian cultures?

However, I have a suggestion to help the bill scale second reading. The proposed university should be sited in the federal capital territory and with campuses in all states in the federation because the objective is to “promote the study and use of Nigerian languages and culture for national development.”. Please don’t get me wrong. I am excited because I am *Igala* and the *Igala* language would be studied across the country too. The “ingenuity” of Rt. Hon Benjamin Kalu and the co-sponsors of the bill must be commended and appreciated. This is another *Oriṣiriṣi.*

Ocheja, a military historian and doctoral researcher, is an alumnus of the Nigerian Defence Academy.

In a period of less than four weeks, representatives from 186 countries that confirmed their participation would be assembling in the splendid city of Baku, the Azerbaijani capital to showcase their efforts to limit global warming and host discussions to prepare for future climate change.

The expected delegates, numbering between twenty to forty thousand, coupled with about the same number of activists and other interested parties are expected to discuss the adaptation and mitigation efforts required to achieve significant positive outcomes in the coming years towards tackling climate change.

Each country has its nationally determined goals and priorities (NDCs), and these are also the points of dissonances.

Azerbaijan, speaking through their minister of environment Mansour Babayev, says they want this year’s summit to give attention to making climate finance more available, accessible and affordable to developing countries so that they can achieve their climate ambitions and implement their their NDCs.

Beyond the hackneyed issues of mitigation and adaptation, the hosts this year have stated the goal of working with others to find ways for an increase in financing climate mitigation by the Least Developed Countries, LDCs.

Determined to assist these African and other developing countries to prepare themselves well with platforms and the usual debates, Azerbaijan dispatched several teams to visit to hear the expectations and vulnerabilities of those countries.

If this works out well, Africa would be delighted with this vision and commitment of Azerbaijan’s long-serving national leader, President Haydar Aliyev and his people who have shown a rare willingness and commitment to climate positive actions much earlier than the growing, intense awareness of the climate action seen in recent years.
Azerbaijani capital, Baku (they say its historically correct name is Baki) is a repository of climate actions and policies for as long as the city had been in existence. A visit to the sprawling city would convince even the most disinclined critics that its choice as the host of COP29 global conference is not by accident.
When my hotel said at the point of check-in that their fitness centre was unfortunately out of use, I asked to be shown a public park runners could use.

For those readers who would be there 11-22 next month, November for this event, they would see that virtually all the major city streets are characterized by greenery, designed as parks and gardens geared towards sustainable lifestyles. This is the city as it had always been, not a design change or make-believe to attract the hosting rights of the COP.

Away from capital, even the newly-recovered, Armenian-occupied territories around Nagorno-Karabakh in the latest round of war between the neighbouring countries have been designated as a “Green Energy Zone.”
With this, the region is set to witness a climate resilient development that would transport it to the future in terms of greenery and resilience.

The country’s passion for the green agenda is equally manifested by the achievements of two key sectors – oil and gas and electric energy sectors.

As is Nigeria, Azerbaijan is an oil and gas economy. They are not in OPEC but they are, like Russia -the world’s second largest oil producer- in a sort of community with the organization, working together to decide the price of oil and other oil commodity policies. Together, they make up what they call “OPEC plus.”

It then follows that the country would be concerned, as we are here, with the growing Western rhetoric of a hastened, total ban on the use of fossil fuels. Until the Russian war with Ukraine started, the developed economies of the West were taking a number of concretely aggressive measures to limit oil production and its uses, telling their banks to stop funding oil and gas development in countries such as ours.
Azerbaijan today produces between 700,000-800,000 thousand barrels a day and SOCAR, the fully state-owned national oil and gas company headquartered in Baku is currently making strategic shift as it evolves from a traditional oil and gas company to a comprehensive energy provider with medium and long-term decarbonization targets they would further unveil at COP29.

In October 2023, Azerbaijan completed a 230 MW solar plant in Garadagh, near Baku, sending another strong message of their passion for their green agenda. This was quickly followed by the laying of the foundation of two new stations to bring available capacity to 1GW (one gigawatt), marking a major step in the march to their energy transition.

In the medium term, Azerbaijan aims to generate 30 per cent of its energy from renewable sources by 2030.

While the country’s available electricity supply is put at 5 GW, regular consumption is currently at about 3.5G W, rising to a maximum of up to 4.5 GW.

Azerbaijani food culture is, as to be expected, significantly different from our own. But visiting Nigerians would have plenty to eat – and pleasantly 6 in the Old City, parts of which are designated as UNESCO heritage sites.

The French have a great reputation for being consumers of bread, but the Azerbaijanis eat on the average 100 per cent more bread than do the French citizens.

The Hausas will find themselves at home with their grilled meats-some of it much like our suya- and their Chay (tea), served freshly brewed, hot, and strong.

The Yorubas would not miss their hot peppered meals. Baku is not like other places where you ask them to give hot peppers, and they bring you curry powder or Tabasco. If they ask for it, they will

Although 90 per cent of them are Muslim, they don’t flock to the mosques as we do here. After 70 years of communist control under the Soviet system, many don’t remember how to pray five times in a day. Or even the direction of the Qibla. Yet, here and there, you can see women in their Hijab and a designated prayer place in public places. The city has beautiful mosques and a colourful orthodox-type cathedral.

When you see the free flow of alcohol and its consumption, you would think you are in a European capital or a major metropolis. In addition, they have a budding wine industry that has begun receiving global recognition.
In readiness for the climate conference, the host country has transformed the Baku stadium into a multi-venue meeting centre. The UN agencies alone have 120 meeting pavilions. There are several medical centres and a large number of fire trucks in the facility. The Green Zone has a setting to contain well-ordered demonstrations and protests, usually characterizing COP. Anything outside the approved protest guidelines will be met with a firm response. This country places law and order on a very high level, and a warning to our activists is that they should not take this lightly.
The city itself has prepared a list of 144 hotels in the third, fourth, and five-star categories, and the booking platforms are already released. A user-friendly, fast-track visas platform is available 24/7, and transportation would be available free of charge.

Baku, which is notorious for its slow movement of traffic, is promising transport management using mostly buses. Given the big inflow of people during the conference, this should mark a reduction of carbon imprint.
Negotiators at the Glasgow COP26 climate change summit agreed in November 2021 to create a global carbon credit offset trading market. By this, countries could emit a certain amount of carbon dioxide or other greenhouse gases (GHGs) and to sell the excess number of credits allowed them by the UN.

Africa, which in total is responsible for only two per cent of the world’s greenhouse emissions, is increasingly becoming more or less the shopping mall for carbon credits.
A growing number of African countries see a strategic opportunity to leverage the continent’s renewable resources to earn money while advancing global climate goals.
This is, however, being seen by the activist community as a precursor to a new colonial rule in Africa.

Rich countries, including some in the Middle East, are on a buying spree of swathes of African forests under the United Nations Framework Convention for Climate Change, UN-FCCC, to counter emissions by preventing deforestation.

Gabon, one of the most forested African countries, is on the record as the first country on the continent to make carbon credits available for sale.

Since then, others, including Kenya, Malawi, Togo, Burundi, and Rwanda, have entered the trade.

For example, a company called Blue Carbon, founded by Sheikh Ahmed Dalmook Al Maktoum, a member of the royal family of Dubai, has signed MOUs with the governments of Liberia, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe to manage huge swathes of their forests and produce carbon credits from conservation activities.
Notable carbon projects in Kenya include the Northern Rangeland Trust Carbon Project, the Kasigu Wildlife Corridor Project, and the Mikono Panuja Project.

These projects, in a way, give the wealthy countries and corporations a lisence to continue to pollute the planet.

Last year, the Vice President of Nigeria inaugurated a committee of experts to advise the government on the activation of a sustainable carbon market.

On the basis of this committee’s recommendations, the government is hoping to ensure the creation of “an efficient carbon market ecosystem” expected to fetch the country more than two thousand, five hundred million Dollars ($2.5 billion). Nigeria has a very hard decision to make.

With growing fears of such deals tending to
breach community land ownership and violate people’s rights to have a say in the development of their land, African governments are coming under increasing criticism from international NGOs, urging them to halt the relapses into colonialism by the way of foreign rule over their territories.

How all these play out – the pro and con- at COP29 – will have a significant impact on the African, nay world order.

Shehu, journalism and PR practitioner.

Our habits, when we buy groceries, we question what we buy. Is this flour pure, are there stones in the rice, does the soap lather well? If you buy a motorbike, or a fairly used car, you ask about the mileage, is the after sales good. Even when you buy a pencil you fuse over it and nothing. You question each and everything all the time. Except for one thing. When you chose your government. You ask so many questions over a mosquito coil that last five hours, does it give too much smoke or give out smell, will it kill mosquitoes. So, before you vote away four years ask how will they advance our country–Sharukh Khan

Abeg, Can I Get Some Answers?

My people, Nigerians! We are champions of interrogation when it comes to everyday things. We can sniff out a fake designer bag faster than a customs officer at Murtala Muhammed Airport. We inspect tomatoes like we’re performing surgery, and haggle over the price of pepper like our lives depend on it. But when it comes to those vying for the highest office or even the lowest offices in the land? We suddenly become shy.

Let’s face it, my fellow Nigerians, we’re masters of scrutiny when it comes to our daily lives. We can spot a fake N50 note from a mile away, but when it comes to our leaders, we suddenly turn a blind eye. It’s like buying a bag of rice without checking for stones – we’re setting ourselves up for disappointment. We need to ask the tough questions, like “Oga, how will you make our roads better than those in Dubai?” or “Madam, what’s your plan to make our hospitals rival those in the US?”

Think about it: We question the purity of our garri, the mileage on a ‘tokunbo’ car, even the sharpness of a pencil. But the folks who will be steering the ship of state for the next four years? We just…accept whatever they dish out? Haba! This is not the way of the wise Nigerian, and maybe we should even ask, who is a wise Nigerian?

We’re quick to complain about ‘bad governance’, but how can we expect good governance if we don’t ask the right questions BEFORE the ballot box becomes a magic show? It’s like buying a ‘pure water’ sachet without checking if it’s truly sealed – you’re just asking for trouble.

Beyond the ‘Owambe’ Politics

Yes, election season in Nigeria is a spectacle. Politicians transform into Father Christmas, promising everything but the kitchen sink. Music blares, crowds gather, and accusations fly faster than ‘suya’ at a barbecue. But amidst the fanfare, are we asking the tough questions?

Before we dance to the campaign jingles and collect the Ankara with their faces plastered on it, we need to ask:

• “Oga, how will you fix our schools so our pikin can learn better than us?” (Education)
• “Madam, what’s your plan for our hospitals? We don’t want to be traveling to India for every headache.” (Healthcare)
• “Sir, how will you tackle this ‘light’ situation? My generator is tired!” (Power supply)
• “Madam, this insecurity is giving us high blood pressure. What’s the plan?” (Security)
• “Oga, how will you fight corruption? We are tired of hearing stories that touch.” (Anti-corruption)

These are not ‘bonus’ questions. These are the ‘main exams’! We need to assess their track record, their vision, and their commitment to actually doing the work. It’s not about the loudest voice or the biggest crowd; it’s about the candidate with the best plan for our Nigeria.

Digging Deeper Than ‘Agbada’

We need to go beyond the ‘aso ebi’ and the fancy speeches. Let’s delve into the nitty-gritty:

• Economic policies: Will they create jobs for our graduates who are roaming the streets? Will they empower our market women and our farmers?
• Social agenda: Will they promote unity amongst all our tribes and religions? Will they ensure equal opportunities for our women and our youth?
• Leadership style: Will they be transparent and accountable, or will they disappear with our money like those before them?
• Foreign policy: Will they make Nigeria proud on the world stage, or will we be the butt of jokes at the UN?

We need leaders with integrity, competence, and a genuine passion for serving the people. Not those who see politics as a business venture or a path to personal enrichment.

Some say, “My vote doesn’t matter.” That’s like saying, “One grain of garri doesn’t make eba.” But my friend, it’s the collection of those grains that fills our stomach! Our votes are our power. We must:

• Register and guard our PVCs like it’s the key to Aso Rock.
• Come out en masse on election day and vote wisely.
• Hold our elected officials accountable. No more sleeping on the job!

Imagine if we applied the same level of skepticism we use when buying a second-hand phone to our politicians’ promises. “Is this really a 4G network or just 2G in disguise?” or “Will this ‘transformation agenda’ really bring change or just more of the same?” We mustn’t be satisfied with empty promises; we need concrete plans and tangible results. Our leaders should be held to the same standards as our favorite jollof rice – if it’s not up to par, we send it back!

We can’t keep doing the same thing and expecting different results. It’s time to break the cycle of apathy and take charge of our destiny.

The power to transform Nigeria lies within us. Let’s demand more from our leaders. Let’s make informed decisions. Let’s build a Nigeria where every citizen has a voice and a chance to thrive.

The next time you step into that voting booth, remember: You’re not just choosing a leader; you’re choosing the future of Nigeria. Ask the right questions, demand the right answers, and let’s create a Nigeria we can all be proud of. As it’s time to move beyond the politics of “my brother, my sister, my tribe” and focus on the issues that truly matter. We need leaders who’ll make Nigeria work for everyone, not just their cronies. So, let’s ask the right questions and demand real answers. Let’s make our votes count and hold our leaders accountable. As said in Igbo, “Onye aghala nwanne ya” – be your brother’s keeper. Let’s keep our leaders on their toes and build a Nigeria where everyone has a chance to thrive. Will Nigeria win—Only time will tell.