₦airaland Forum

Tinubu’s Detribalised nature is second to none, TSG replies Abati

Pro Bola Ahmed Tinubu group, Tinubu Support Group(TSG)has launched a blistering response to allegations made against Asiwaju Tinubu by journalist and public affairs commentator, Reuben Abati.

Abati had on Monday accused Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu of having a totalitarian grip over Lagos and as well describing his presidential ambition dead on arrival.

The group who spoke through its Head of Media and Publicity, Oluwatosin Johnson, said it is unfortunate that some naysayers in the pen profession in our clime have made it a pastime to bring down any personality not in their good books at all costs no matter how good the personality is.

According to him, Tinubu’s detribalised nature is second to none, judging from the composition of his government as Lagos State Governor, which encompassed all tribes.

"If you critically take cognizance of Nigeria’s leaders and their contributions to human development, you would see that Tinubu believes that the true essence of leadership is mentoring others.

" Having served two-terms as Governor of Lagos state, Asiwaju Tinubu has the experience and expertise to restore peace in Nigeria’s troubled spots and make the country much more attractive for foreign investment.

"We understand that the thought of a formidable force as Tinubu scorned on many occasions by the haters, might have put the many camps in a panic mode, resulting into so many biased opinion by attention seekers and hack writers prowling the land.

" Tinubu has remained a unifying figure in Nigeria's political space, a fact most Nigerians know and are expectedly hoping for him to join the 2023 Presidential contest", the group declared.

An American-based Nigerian and Edo State-born Mr. Kenneth Iyobosa Osadiaye who is a Medical Practitioner in the United States of America has launched a mega filling station in Benin City Edo State Nigeria the heartbeat of the nation. 

The launch event which was held on the 3rd of April 2021,  was well attended by business mogul in the oil and gas sector and other prominent personalities in the state. 

The Chief Executive Officer Kidaye Oil Gas Limited Mr. Kenneth Iyobosa Osadiaye, while appreciating guest and well-wishers who turned out in their numbers to attend the grand opening of the mega filling station, said haven't spent so long in the United States of America it was time to also give back to his home state, he said his passion has always been to return home to contribute his quota in his state Edo and see that the residents are gainfully employed and help the youths to also shun social vices, as the grand opening of the mega filling station will see them gainfully employed.

The Chief Executive Officer Kidaye Oil Gas Limited Mr. Kenneth Iyobosa Osadiaye, while acknowledging the fact that this event was only made possible through the power of God Almighty and the hard work he has put in over the years in the United States of America.
Finally, He thanked all the guests, well-wishers, who attended the grand opening of the mega filling station.

By David Onmeje



Sometime in 2020, the Director- General of the World Health Organization (WHO), Dr. Tedros Adhanom, wisecracked; “Without health, people have nothing; without health, we have nothing as humanity.” Unmistakably, the global health specialist, again re-echoed the indispensability of an excited and happier humanity only when it is steeped in good health.

Nigeria is Africa’s most populous nation and with a population of over 200 million people, issues of public health have always been the concern of successive Governments in the country. Public healthcare delivery is also topmost on the cards of President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration. Firstly, Mr. President vowed to vacate Nigeria’s inglorious status as a nation still plagued by poliomyelitis (wild poliovirus) pandemic.

And after a painstaking search, President Buhari appointed Mr. Faisal Shuaib, a medical doctor; homebred and later, American-trained public health specialist as the Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer (CEO), National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) in January 2017. He parades unimpeachable records in management of public health issues globally. Dr. Shuaib spent productive time and years at the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF) Seattle USA, as a Senior Program Officer, where he excelled.

At BMGF, Nigeria’s NPHCDA boss now, mastered the rudiments of developing and implementing strategies on polio outbreak response in Africa. So, his 2017 job in Nigeria was like walking on a familiar terrain with a wave of the hand. Frankly, dealing with Nigeria’s largely rural based population and a citizenry with diverse cultures and religious beliefs were nightmares beyond the proverbial storm in a tea cup.

But the leadership of NPHCDA fell on a seedy soil in Dr. Faisal Shuaib. He was extremely worried at the dearth of quality Primary Health Care (PHC) services in Nigeria generally. He voiced it at several fora that Nigeria only takes care of about 20%, instead of at least 70% of primary healthcare delivery to the people. So, he sought to change the narrative and today, most State Governments in Nigeria have prioritized PHC services as the fulcrum of Government, thus lessening the burden on secondary and tertiary health institutions.

In spite of the difficulties, Dr. Faisal Shuaib braved the odds very courageously with a mind fixated on success to end the plaque of wild polio in Nigeria. Therefore, in June 2020, the Africa Regional Certification Commission, an independent body mandated by WHO to oversee and certify the African region as polio-free, declared Nigeria as absolutely exculpated from the endemic poliovirus.

Nigeria was the only country on the African continent which withheld WHO’s certification of polio eradication. But Dr. Shuaib untied the knot in the collaboration with USAID by strengthening national health infrastructure systems and immunization. He faithfully and victoriously battled the scourge of poliovirus.

Upon defeat of poliovirus, Dr. Shuaib heaved a sigh of relief and excitedly exclaimed; “An amazing moment in our history…The Nigeria team led by NPHCA and partners demonstrated evidence of our polio-free status.” It was a earth-shattering point in Nigeria’s public health history.

But the eradication of the troublesome and somewhat, disgraceful wild poliovirus was merely Dr. Shuaib’s litmus test. No one, including soothsayers had an inkling of an impending and more dangerously explosive public health issue, which manifested with the outbreak of the global COVID-19 pandemic. When COVID-19 broke out, it shuddered the world, massively spreading and killing. For the first time in a long while, even developed economies and nations with sophistry in medical technology bowed to the might of a deadly health scourge.

Luckily, through Dr. Faisal Shuaib’s astuteness and leadership ingenuity at NPHCDA, Nigeria has gone down in world history books as a country, which effectively controlled and managed the outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic. It shocked other nations of the world that Nigeria had a little over 157, 000 confirmed cases of COVID-19 and less than 2,000 deaths, from the pandemic; whilst other countries around the globe recorded millions of infected people and deaths.

However, Dr. Shuaib proved his leadership mettle more translucently when COVID-19 vaccine was developed and certified by WHO for the immunization of people to curb the spread of coronavirus globally. In Nigeria, regressive partisanship, cultural and religious beliefs or prohibitions combined to frustrate or stifle the vaccination of Nigerians.

Indeed, some skeptics and doomsayers predicted a failure of the Buhari Presidency to effectively administer the initial 3.92 million doses of the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine on the people. Mr. Cheta Nwanze, of the Lagos-based risk consultancy firm, SBM Intelligence, bluntly proclaimed through an email; “There are quite a number of factors that work against Dr Shuaib’s hopes. We don’t have the money, and the infrastructure to distribute this amount (sic) of vaccines.”

Impressively though, the NPHCDA boss has disappointed his critics and perpetual wailers. While his adversaries mouthed all manner of insanities, it least occurred to them that a famed horse rider was on the horse in Dr. Shuaib’s personage.

In 2014, Dr. Shuaib was the main pillar of Nigeria’s successful response to the outbreak of the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD), as the Head/Coordinator of the Ebola Emergency Operation Centre (EEOC). He established comprehensive structures that provided quality diagnostic, treatment, care and monitoring of EVD patients’ contacts with friends and family members.

Therefore, superintending on the administration of the COVID-19 vaccine immunization on Nigerians was another familiar turf and merely icing of his cake, unknown to his critics. When Nigeria took delivery of the initial 3.92 million doses of the COVAX facility on March 2nd 2021, trailing after Ghana and Cote d’Ivoire, Dr. Shuaib knew, another national assignment has beckoned on him to save humanity.

Faisal Shuaib rolled out a masterplan and procedures for the COVID-19 vaccination administration. The NPHCDA boss is steadily executing it and hopes to vaccinate 40% of Nigeria’s population of over 200 million by the end of the year 2021, and to achieve the feat of 70 % by 2022, with subsequent receipt of the doses of the COVAX facility.

Storage facilities and distribution of the COVID-19 vaccines throughout the federation, especially in rural communities were the haunting nightmares of Nigerians. The vaccines require a cold storage temperature of about 70 degrees Celsius in ultra-cold chain equipments, in a country still grappling with the problem of epileptic public power supply. But Dr. Shuaib perceived it as the least among the motley of problems confronting him. So, he engaged the services of the private sector for ultra-cold storage facilities for storage and distribution of the vaccines. So, no Nigerian has complained of an expired COVID-19 vaccine administered on him.

Dr. Shuaib set his targets and priorities perfectly. His first obsession was vaccinating medical doctors and public health workers as well as other publicly exposed workers. So, with vociferous public campaigns, preachments and involvement of all public health stakeholders, the NPHCDA boss has crossed the benchmark of success in the administration of COVID-19 vaccines in the country.

Nigerians have now broken the protocols and timelines Dr. Shuaib fixed for the gradual vaccination of different categories of people, depending on the delivery of the COVAX facility. COVID-19 vaccines are now crazily sought by Nigerians in every state and everywhere. A 42-year-old medical doctor, Mr. Ngong Cyprian, exclaimed after taking the vaccine; “I want everybody to be vaccinated. I am happy to be the first and I am happy I am not the last.”

But the best part of Dr. Shuaib’s leadership of NPHCDA is that has ensured every COVID-19 vaccine landing in Nigeria is duly tested, certified and approved by relevant local and international bodies as safe and effective for use by Nigerians. The agency is actively working with NAFDAC, and other sister agencies to ensure Nigerians get the best in protection of public health.

Therefore, President Buhari never made a mistake by reappointing Dr. Faisal Shuaib for a second term in January 2021. With him at NPHCDA, the coronavirus pandemic is no longer a mystery to Nigerians. #StaySafeCoronavirusIsReal!

Onmeje is a UK based public affairs analyst. Email: daonmeje@outlook

The Coalition for Truth and Justice (CTJ) has called on the Minister of Defence, Bashir Salihi Magashi, to clear his name from the controversial purchase of security equipment. 

The group noted that Magashi must explain how his ministry expended the $1billion approved by the Federal Government in April 2018. 

Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday in Abuja, national coordinator, Timothy Charles, described the minister's silence as "unholy" and an "embarrassment" to the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari. 

Charles said the group is alarmed that the Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen. Attahiru Ibrahim is carrying out acts to shield the minister.

The Coalition for Truth and Justice, therefore, advised the COAS to be bold enough to stand by the truth instead of being clever by half and attempting to insult the sensibilities of Nigerians. 

The group also urged all well-meaning Nigerians to demand that the minister comes out clear by providing facts and details on arms procurement under his watch. 

While absorbing the former service chiefs of any involvement, the Coalition for Truth and Justice added that Magashi must come clean for Nigerians to take the FG more seriously in its quest to address the security challenges in the country. 

Read the full statement below: 

The Coalition for Truth and Justice, a non-governmental organization in Nigeria dedicated to the entrenchment of transparency and accountability in governance in Nigeria, welcomes you all to this important press conference that is intended to address some of the pertinent issues that have surrounded the $1 billion released for the purchase of arms in the prosecution of the war against terrorism and other acts of criminalities across the country. 

We must agree that these issues are of great importance to the well-being of the country at large, given the country's security challenges in recent times as well as the government's efforts in addressing these challenges. 

It is common knowledge that the Muhammadu Buhari administration had in April 2018 approved the release of $1 billion to Nigerian Defence authorities for the purchase of security equipment to fight insecurity in the country under the purview of the Ministry of Defence. 

Thus, it is pertinent to state that since the coming of the Muhammadu Buhari administration, arms purchases have been domiciled with the Ministry of Defence and not individual services as erroneously projected in the public space. 

It is also succinct to state that the Honorable Minister of Defence, who is in charge of the Ministry of Defence, should provide answers to questions surrounding arms purchase in the country. It is thus despicable that there has been some well-orchestrated attempt by some vested interest to divert attention from the Minister of Defence. 

We are constrained to add that the statement credited to the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru, during his appearance before the House of Representatives is diversionary and an indication that he is carrying out the whims and caprices of the Honorable Minister of Defence. 

The Coalition for Truth and Justice views the recent happenings as a sad development in the sense that as a high ranking officer of the Nigerian Army and one who is conversant with the operational procedures in the Nigerian Military would elect to feign ignorance to an issue as sensitive as arms purchase in the prosecution of the war against terrorism in the country. 

We are aware that the Ministry of Defence is responsible for arms purchases and the unholy silence of the Honorable Minister of Defence in this regard leaves many questions unanswered. This is also an embarrassment of unimaginable proportion to the Muhammadu Buhari administration that the Honourable Minister of Defence cannot articulate a response to the questions surrounding the monies meant for arms purchase. 

The Coalition for Truth and Justice uses this medium to call on the Honorable Minister to come out clear by providing the much-needed information surrounding the $1billion released to purchase arms. 

If this is not the case, we then wonder why the Honorable Minister of Defence has elected to play to the gallery in a case as sensitive as this. More alarming is that the Chief of Army Staff has been carrying out acts that aim to shield the Honorable Minister of Defence. 

The Coalition for Truth and Justice frowns at such display and wishes to advise the Chief of Army Staff to be bold enough to stand by the truth instead of being clever by half and attempting to insult the sensibilities of Nigerians. 

We are constrained to add that if the Chief of Army Staff who has barely spent months in office would not be bold enough to call a spade a spade, we are afraid that his ability to lead the prestigious Nigerian Army is indeed questionable. 

It is also curious that the Chief of Army Staff could ask that the past service chief be invited to answer questions on arms procurement during their tenures. This is indeed an anomaly that all well-meaning Nigerians must resist.  

This also goes to the Honorable Minister of Defence, who, by his actions, has displayed that he does not have a grasp of the operational strategies of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.  

It is our considered opinion that the Honorable Minister of Defence must, as a matter of necessity and urgency, provide the general public details on how the $1billion was expended under his watch in the spirit of transparency and accountability. 

The Coalition for Truth and Justice calls on all well-meaning Nigerians to demand that the Honorable Minister of Defence come out clear by providing facts and details on arms procurement under his watch. 

Therefore, it would be inexcusable for the Honorable Minister of Defence to continue to shy away from his responsibilities by pushing a distractive narrative in the public space. And not until this is done, the government's seriousness in the prosecution of the war against terrorism would always be called to question. 

The general public must also be aware that the former service chiefs were never involved in arms procurement and must do good to ignore the well-orchestrated campaign in this regard. Consequently, the Honorable Minister of Defence must come out to clear the air if we are indeed serious in addressing the security challenges in the country.  

This is the position of the Coalition for Truth and Justice as critical stakeholders in the entrenchment of transparency and accountability in governance in Nigeria. 

We thank you for your time and charge all present to take this message to their various constituencies. 

God bless Nigeria. 

God bless the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. 

Thank you.

Governor Obaseki's spurious, alarmist, untrue, and wicked claims on Nigeria's Economy

The Chairman, Caretaker Committee of the All Progressive Congress, APC, Edo State, Col David Imus has described as “spurious, alarmist, untrue and wicked”, the allegation by Governor Godwin Obaseki that Nigerians will soon wake up like the South American country, Argentina.

Col Imus in a statement by the Edo APC Assistant Publicity Secretary, Victor Osehobo also described as laughable, unwarranted, and unfounded claims, credited to Governor Obaseki last week, that the country's economic situation is more critical now because of the huge amount borrowed to service it, adding that the situation is a classic case of the Pot calling the Kettle black.

He said, " the true position is that under Governor Obaseki's watch, the economy of Edo state is in dire straits with the Governor bereft of ideas about how to get it out, with a foreign debt of $300million and a domestic debt including loans from commercial banks, the capital market, and other doubtful sources, approaching N120billion as at March this year, for non-existent projects"!

According to the Edo APC chairman, "In the past seven months, Governor Obaseki has plunged Edo state into higher debts by taking more loans which have seen a 67 percent increase in its debt profile. Edo state under Governor Obaseki has overtaken Rivers state as the state with the highest foreign and domestic debt in South-South Nigeria, and is on a steady course to displace Lagos as Nigeria's most indebted State".

Col Imuse added that Edo State now spends more money servicing debts than on education, healthcare, and infrastructure without a State Cabinet and an aged public service, whereas other states are working assiduously at reducing the debt burden on their citizens.

"Some state governments have embarked on the reduction of their domestic debts as of the end of September 2020 according to the Debt Management Office which lists Kogi state government as having reduced the state debt from a cumulative N132.5 billion it was as of December 31, 2019, to N73, 314,904,696.35", Col Imuse added

Col Imus said that the PDP Edo state government led by Governor Obaseki is right now holding tenaciously to straws, by personalizing his criticism of the Nigerian government, and urged the governor not to hide under the title of Investment Banker to earn cheap fame.

He admonished Governor Obaseki to, “use the form created by the National Economic Council, the Nigerian Governors Forum and the Nigerian Economic Summit, of which he is a member to offer useful ideas, if he has any, rather than singling himself out for pediatric applause, because the management of Nigeria's economy is not just the responsibility of one person, but that of the Nigerian government, of which he is a part".

“For the governor's puerile claims to hold water, which it cannot, it has to be backed with facts, not speaking blindly with a pocket of sycophants at his Benin office. Everybody today knows that since 2015 when APC came on the scene, Nigeria has been on the path of progress and things are much better than how PDP left it.”

The Tinubu Support Group( TSG)on Sunday, faulted and countered statements made by Farooq Kperogi, a newspaper columnist, casting aspersions on the state of health of the National Leader of the APC, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

In a statement issued in Abuja, Oluwatosin Johnson, Head Media and Publicity of TSG denied Kperogi's wild claims and urged him to uphold the ethics of journalism practice without being mischievous.

Oluwatosin condemned Kperogi's hypothetical submission, describing his narratives as fallacious and idiotic.

The group said it was shocked by Kperogi's “curious and spurious allegations” declaring that "Asiwaju Tinubu is medically sound and fit to undertake any National assignments whatsoever ".

"Kperogi appears to have his facts or information mixed up somewhere. He must be confusing someone else with Asiwaju,”
The National Leader has been enjoying and continues to enjoy sound health to the utter shame of his detractors".

While urging Nigerians to shun falsehood surrounding the state of Asiwaju's health, the group said Kperogi's mischief should be viewed from the prism of his planting of fake news about Asiwaju Tinubu's health in the cyberspace for the very intent of later citing same as the source of this information with the intent of misinforming Nigerians about Asiwaju’s health.

" We Admonish those playing evil politics with human health to repent and turn a new leaf as no human being has the key over any other's life or death except God!".

The Tinubu Support Group(TSG) has felicitated with Christians on the occasion of Easter Celebrations which commemorates the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

The group, in a statement by its Head Media and Publicity, Oluwatosin Johnson, urged citizens to imbibe the selfless attributes displayed by Jesus Christ.

“As we merry with friends, families and other loved ones on this occasion, we implore all and sundry to also remember the essence of Easter which is encapsulated in love, sacrifice and suffering that Jesus Christ personifies for humanity,” the group said.

The group counselled that love and tolerance should tower above violence, killings, agitations, and other divisive tendencies.

“In our collective efforts to progress as a nation, we must all rise above our perceived differences which pit brothers and sisters against themselves. Love and tolerance should be our watchwords.”

The group tasked Nigerians to use the occasion of Easter to pray for the safety and wellbeing of the Armed Forces and other security personnel that toil day and night in ensuring the safety of the citizenry.

It also used the opportunity to seek the continuous prayers and support of Nigerians for the Muhammadu Buhari-led administration.

*Lekki Massacre: Group wants Amnesty International, others sanctioned after US vindicates Nigerian Army*

Following a report by the United States Department of State on the alleged killing of protesters at the Lekki toll gate, the Centre for African Liberation and Socio-Economic Rights (CALSER) has called for sanctions on Amnesty International, Cable News Network (CNN) and others for misleading the world. 

The group said the US has vindicated the Nigerian Army of any wrongdoing during the protest in Lagos, exposing the conspiracy by Amnesty and its cohorts. 

The report tagged ‘2020 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices: Nigeria' released on March 30, 2021, said claims that Nigerian forces killed protesters were "unverified". 

It explained that accurate information on fatalities resulting from the shooting was not available at the end of the year.

And speaking on behalf of CALSER, Executive Director, Ayima Aluor, welcomed the U.S' report as it emphasises that the "bulk of the information in the public space was meant for mischief purposes and not a reflection of the events that transpired at the Lekki Tollgate". 

According to Aluor, AI acted in malaise and must be sanctioned to serve as a deterrent to others notorious for spreading fake news to the detriment of peace and unity in Nigeria. 

The group further called on the United States to identify and blacklist staff of AI behind the mischievous report, denying an entry visa to the country for the next 10 years.

While demanding an unreserved apology from the supposed human rights group to the Nigerian Army, CALSER warned sponsors of acts of political violence in Nigeria to desist from their nefarious activities. 

Read the full statement below: 

The leadership of the Centre for African Liberation and Socio-Economic Rights welcomes you all to the critical press conference in light of the United States Department of State's recent statement in its 2020 Reports on Human Rights Practices in Nigeria. 

It is instructive to state that the events that led to the infamous EndSARS protests across Nigeria indeed opened a Pandora’s Box on the various conspiracies against the Nigeria Army's efforts in protecting and preserving the nascent democracy in Nigeria. 

The Centre for African Liberation and Socio-Economic Rights views the statement as a welcome development for all lovers of democracy because it has indeed exposed the conspiracy against the Nigerian Army by Amnesty International and its cohorts. 

The report was quite elaborate and explicit. It stated that the claims made by some organizations such as Amnesty International regarding the number of casualties at the Lekki Tollgate could not be verified. 

It is thus our considered view that the Nigerian Army has been vindicated, which by and large reinforces the fact that the bulk of the information in the public space was meant for mischief purposes and not a reflection of the events that transpired at the Lekki Tollgate. 

It is said that the likes of Amnesty International indeed went to town with a disjointed narrative meant to mislead the members of the unsuspecting general public towards wiping up sentiments and discrediting the invaluable role towards addressing the mayhem that was unleashed in the polity by some vested interest. 

This is on the heels that the report explicitly stated that there is no evidence to back up the claims that, indeed, the Nigerian Army fired live bullets into the crowd of protesters at the Lekki Tollgate. We also wish to state that the conflicting numbers of casualties are the handiwork of paid political distractors hiding under human rights groups' nomenclature. 

The statement further highlighted that accurate information on fatalities resulting from the shooting was not available at year's end. Amnesty International reported ten persons died during the event, but the government disputed Amnesty's report, and no other organization was able to verify the claim.

The implication of the above stated is that Amnesty International acted in malaise and a reason why we are demanding an unreserved apology from Amnesty International and other unscrupulous groups for attempting to cause a crisis of unimaginable proportion.  

The Centre for African Liberation and Socio-Economic Rights uses this medium to call on the relevant authorities to impose sanctions on Amnesty International to deter other individuals and groups that are notorious for spreading fake news at the detriment of peace and unity in Nigeria. 

The likes of Amnesty International must be blacklisted for its mischievous narrative of a massacre at the Lekki Tollgate against the Nigerian Army. We are consequently demanding that Amnesty International and her staff and all persons behind the mischievous campaign against the Nigerian Army regarding the EndSARS protest in Nigeria be denied an entry visa to the United States of America for the next ten years.

This is especially important in light of the new revelation that has exposed the various conspiracies against the Nigerian authorities' efforts towards the preservation of nascent democracy in the country. 

The Centre for African Liberation and Socio-Economic Rights is also conscious that if such anomaly is allowed to thrive, the larger consequences might be too big for Nigeria to bear given the spate of politically motivated tension in the country. 

We also wish to use this medium to sound a note of warning to the sponsors of acts of political violence to desist from their nefarious activities as we shall not hesitate to mobilized Nigerians in their numbers to take to the street in a peaceful protest demanding an end to the activities of Amnesty International and other individuals and groups that are spreading fake news and misleading members of the unsuspecting general public. 

Thus, our desire that the United States Department of State's statement should indeed reawaken the consciousness in Nigerians that certainly Amnesty International does not mean well for the country. As such, all must be done to ensure that its highly misleading campaign against Nigeria is nipped in the bud. 

This message is also intended for all those acting as proxies for Amnesty International in the country to desist from any further campaign of deceit and illogical conclusions, as Nigerians are now more enlightened on issues of national interest. 

The Centre for African Liberation and Socio-Economic Rights would remain at the vanguard of ensuring that individuals and groups with ulterior motives are exposed in the quest for peace and sustainable growth and development. 

We thank you all for your time and attention. We desire that Nigeria shall overcome its adversaries within the shortest possible time. 

God bless Nigeria.

The National Inter-Faith Religious Organizations for Peace (NIFROP) is appalled by the anti-vaccine stance of the founder of Christ Embassy, Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, who has issued messages to discourage people from taking the COVID-19 vaccines.

NIFROP is concerned that “Oyakhilome has taken his showmanship too far without regard for how his campaign of misinformation impacts the lives of people who treat the utterances emanating from him as the dictate of God.”

According to the faith-based group, the sanctity of the pulpit should not be abused in this manner as it is totally unacceptable that persons who should minister healing are teaching rebellion.

NIFROP disclosed this in a statement by its Director of Media, Reverend Samson Edeh. It believes Oyakhilome got it wrong because COVID-19 vaccine saves lives.

The statement read, “It is our view that Jesus Christ could have healed the blind man as recounted in (Jn. 9:1-7) by merely declaring healing but still chose to use mud because the things created by God are meant for the use of mankind in all ramifications including in the restoration of health and prevention of ill health. The vaccines that Pastor Chris ignorantly canvassed against were researched, developed and produced by human beings created by God in addition to being sourced from sources created by God, so how can they be anti-faith as he proclaimed?

“We find it worrisome that Pastor Chris continues to exploit the people in Nigeria owing to the sectarian sensitivities that allow him to get away with capital murder. It is on record that the regulatory agency for broadcasting in the United Kingdom, Ofcom, slammed him with more than N65 million in fines for spreading the same falsehood through his Loveworld Television. Had the institutional framework in Nigeria being as robust as it is in the United Kingdom, this charlatan would have been slammed with fines in the vicinity of billions of naira, given the potential damage that his unsubstantiated claims would cause the populace.

“NIFROP encourages Nigerians irrespective of their creed to continue to take the vaccine and adhere to all guidelines and protocol for managing the spread of COVID-19 virus because it is right to do so.

“We appeal to the clergy not to shy away from exhorting their members to take the COVID-19 vaccine, which requires faith to be effective anyway. Those entrusted with being shepherds of the flock should not become the death of the flock entrusted to them in a bid to be populist compliant. The fact that some hardcore conspiracy theorists are demonizing vaccination against COVID-19 is not enough reason for people who call themselves men of God to go cheap.

“We further call for those who truly worship God to rise up in condemnation of the misleading campaign that Pastor Chris is waging to discourage people from being vaccinated and thus prevent themselves from falling ill or even dying. No true pastor will encourage his congregants to be suicidal irrespective of how attractive such an option appears to those who have become indoctrinated to not see the danger that their spiritual mentor poses to mankind.

“We demand that the relevant agencies in Nigeria follow the path of Ofcom and visit Pastor Chris Oyakhilome with the corresponding sanctions for all the infractions he has committed in Nigeria by putting out the wrong information about the vaccine.”

Recall that the United Kingdom government had fined Pastor Oyakhilome, £125,000 for unsubstantiated conspiracy theories about COVID-19.

In an effort to draft the National leader of the All Progressives Congress(APC), Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu into the 2023 Presidential race, a support group has started rallying support for him in Kano State and other parts of Nigeria. If you could Recal that Gazzete news blog first broke the news about the group's activities and office address situated in highbrow maitama in Abuja last year November.

The group called ‘Tinubu Support Group’(TSG) has expressed its desire to persuade the former Governor of Lagos State to heed the calls of Nigerians to serve the nation and also to rally support for him as a birthday gift.

Already, leaders of the group in Kano have appealed to all stakeholders to work and make sure that Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu is elected to Aso Rock Presidential Villa in 2023.

While demonstrating their love and support for Asiwaju, the group undertook a procession to rally support for him around Kano metropolis

The Arewa Youth Council (AYC) has expressed strong support for Governor Abdullahi Ganduje's plan to host the scheduled annual Bola Tinubu's Colloquium in Kano State Government House describing Arewa Youth Consultative Forum's (AYCF)attacks on the Governor as provocative, ill-advised and apparently sponsored.

Spokesman of the Arewa Youth Council, Mohammed Hussaini, in a statement in Abuja on Sunday affirmed that the forum was shocked to read statements from Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) against the hosting of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu Colloquium in Kano State Government House.

The group disssociated itself completely from the position of the AYCF.

“We reserve the right as critical stakeholders in the Northern Nigerian Project to dissociate our people from the strange position of the AYCF.
“As a people and as a movement formed to ensure, contribute and propel the development of our region, we hereby restate our unalloyed support for any personality in the mould of Asiwaju Tinubu who means so well for the North".

"It is impossible for us to be party to a sponsored campaign of calumny against such people that desire the well-being of our region just for political gains,” the group added.

COVID-19: Group clears air on Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine, urges citizens to support NPHCDA’s efforts


The National Vanguard for Covd-19 Vaccine Administration and Advocacy says there is no need for panic over the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine, assuring Nigerians that it is safe and effective for the cure of the coronavirus.

The group, which gave this assurance at a press conference on Thursday in Abuja, noted that the
benefits of the vaccine outweigh the risk or any side effects it may pose.

It also hailed the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), at the forefront of the distribution, administration and sensitisation of Nigerians on the vaccine.

Recall that several European countries recently stopped the administration of the vaccine over reports of blood clots in recipients.

The European Medicines Agency (EMA), World Health Organisation and other global health bodies have, however, dispelled fears against the shot which provides “100% efficacy over severe or critical disease and hospitalization.”

And after an independent analysis, the National Vanguard for Covd-19 Vaccine Administration and Advocacy also submitted that the vaccine is safe for Nigerians.

In his address, the group's Director of Publicity and Enlightenment, Nathaniel Agada, frowned at Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State over his approach to the contagion and vaccines.

Citing Covid-skeptic late Tanzanian President, Joseph Magufuli, as an reference, Agada said the governor is misguided and his "myopic decision" can only bring misfortune to him and his people.

While urging all patriotic citizens to show support for NPHCDA's efforts, the group added that everyone must be vaccinated for their own safety.

Read full statement below:

INTRODUCTION

Due to the effect of the Covid-19 pandemic across the globe, such concerns were raised, and lots of focus have been on the different Health sectors in expectant to come up with a resolute on tackling the threat.

The coronavirus is one of our modern day's greatest global, human challenge. Now more than ever, access to evidence about the health and socio-economic impact is key to inform the general public and decision-makers in a moment of crisis like this. The need for evidence-based decision-making has never been this greater.

The COVID-19 pandemic is presenting unprecedented challenges for us all, from its effects on our everyday lives to its impacts on the world’s economies. Beyond the tragic health hazards and human consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic, the economic uncertainties, and disruptions that have resulted come at a significant cost to the global economy concerning the demographic, social, and economic implications on the Nigerian population.

The Federal Government in partnership with the National Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) and other concerned Health sectors has taken a great step in saving the lives of Her citizens by administering the approved and safe Corona vaccine to every household.

Matters Arising

The arrival of the AstraZeneca vaccine into Nigeria has brought great relief upon the country that has been numbered with a load of tackling the Corona Virus epidemic. Thanks to the immense efforts of the Nigerian government, the horned demon also known as COVID-19 has been effectively arrested in the country. The mortality rate of the virus has been very low. Now, the Buhari led administration has taken the fight to another level by the importation of the COVID-19 vaccine into the country and distributing it to all the states in the country.

According to the Presidential Task Force  (PTF), no fewer than 8000 people have been vaccinated across the country. This is an incredible step towards ensuring a COVID-19 free country. We, the National Coalition for Vaccine Administration (NCVA) highly commend the president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and his administration and the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) for working tirelessly in ensuring the health and safety of the citizens of Nigeria. Now we can proudly say that Nigeria is headed in the right direction in maintaining a healthy and vibrant nation.

Several experts in the past had predicted that when the Cocid 19 pandemic hits African countries like Nigeria, it would bring with it a complete disaster. President Muhammadu led the administration and the NPHCDA worked hard to prove these experts wrong. The NCDC also contributed immensely to the fight against COVID-19.

The AstraZeneca-Oxford vaccine properly or AZD1222 vaccine is a vaccine used for the prevention of the novel Corona Virus in individuals aged 18 and above. It works by teaching the body how to fight the virus whenever it is infected.

It has been listed for emergency use by the World Health Organization and is safe and effective for use. This is based on findings from large-scale clinical trials around the world.

The AstraZeneca vaccine arrived in Nigeria on the 2nd of March and the vaccination campaign commenced on the 5th of March. The Nigerian government has stated that its goal is to vaccinate at least 70 per cent of the country's population.

Since the commencement of the vaccination campaign, a sundry of frontline health workers and government officials including President Muhammadu Buhari and several state governors have been vaccinated.

Amidst the vaccination campaign, there have been several concerns raised over the safety of the vaccine such as its effectiveness and possible side effects. These concerns have been the cause of several scepticisms thrown at the vaccine. Many people are afraid of being vaccinated including some healthcare professionals. This is a myopic mindset as it has been proven that the benefits of the vaccine far outweigh its side effects.

Since the creation of the vaccine, more than 15 countries, especially in Europe, have suspended the use of the vaccine over concerns raised of the vaccine causing blood clotting in some of its recipients.

Many Nigerians have voiced their concerns over why the Nigerian government hasn't put a stop to the use of the vaccine in the country despite the reports on side effects and the halting of the vaccination in several countries such as Germany, France, Spain and South Africa.

FINDINGS

Permit us to briefly analyze several findings and data that have proven that the worries raised over the use of the vaccine are utterly meaningless.

To clear the air, over 300 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines have been administered globally so far, and there has been no recorded death owing to the use of the vaccine.

The European Medicines Agency’s safety committee recently concluded its preliminary review of a signal of blood clots in individuals vaccinated with COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca at its meeting on the 18th of March 2021.

The Committee confirmed that:

The benefits of the vaccine in combating the COVID-19 virus outweigh the risk, or any side effects it may pose.

That the vaccine is not associated with an increase in the overall risk of blood clots in those who receive it.

That there is no evidence of complications related to specific batches of the vaccine or specific manufacturing sites.

That around 20 million people in the UK and the European Economic Area had received the vaccine as of the 16th day of March 2021 and the EMA had reviewed only 7 cases of blood clots in multiple blood vessels (disseminated intravascular coagulation, DIC) and 18 cases of Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST).

As we can all see, there should be no cause for alarm regarding the possible side effects of the AstraZeneca vaccine.

It is unfortunate that all state governors, aside from Kogi State governor, have launched vaccination programs in their states. This involved the public vaccination of the state governors and strategic leaders to underscore the confidence in the safety and effectiveness of the vaccine.

The Kogi state government has rejected the use of the vaccine claiming the vaccine is dangerous and meant to kill. This a blind decision made by the governor. It is a misguided myopic decision that only aims to bring possible misfortune. It makes me question what his advisers and members of his administration are thinking. Any wise leader should fully comprehend the risks of making such a decision upon his people. The people of Kogi State like every other Nigerians deserve to be kept safe and healthy, and their vaccination would be the right step towards achieving that.

Governor Yahaya Bello should get rid of his obnoxious obduracy and accept the vaccination of the people of his state.

The misfortune that befell Magufuli of Tanzania should serve as a deterrent to the Kogi State governor. Joseph Magufuli just like the governor of Kogi state failed to heed ceaseless warnings regarding his imprudent decisions and disaster came knocking soon. Governor Yahaya Bello's unwise decision might not only lead to his misfortune but also cause harm to a lot of people involved. He has no excuse for his decision. He has shown himself to be an incompetent leader in many regards.

He has failed to put the interests of the people of Kogi State first. The people of Kogi state are at a dangerously high level of risk by not being vaccinated. If peradventure another wave of the pandemic hits Kogi State, we might get an alarming increase in infection reports and the number of deaths in the state. It might end up being a case of had I known.

The Governor of Kogi state should learn from our dear president how he has the interests of the Nigerian Citizen first in his heart. He already set an example by also taking a jab of the vaccine. Now he can rest assured that he safe from the virus. This is a good example of a leader and Yahaya Bello will do well to emulate.  The governor must turn a new leaf and strive to protect the lives of the people of Kogi State

CONCLUSION

The National Coalition for Administration is very much aware of the fact that these rumours have a political undertone, and are laced with political inclinations and grievances.

We call on every patriotic citizen to dispel the rumours about the AstraZeneca Vaccine posing any threat to Health. It is believed that no vaccine can ever be administered in a state, country, let alone Globally, without it being screened, or has undergone series of lab tests to gain approval by the necessary Health bodies, stakeholders, agencies, and Ministry.

This is a vaccine that is administered globally; by gaining its acceptance and recommendation from relevant stakeholders, including the World Health Organization (WHO). This is the major reason why the federal government has chosen this particular vaccine.

The EU’s health authority and the WHO have maintained that the benefits of the vaccine far outweigh any risk it could ever pose.

The Federal Government, through the Presidential Taskforce on COVID - 19  on March 5  2021, has flagged - off a national COVID - 19 vaccination programme at the National Hospital  Abuja after the vaccine was tested and certified to be effective and safe for use in the country by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control ( NAFDAC).

RECOMMENDATION

We, therefore, urge every Nigerian to get vaccinated for their benefit, and the benefit of the people living around them. It is now a known fact that the health benefits outweigh any form of risk that may occur from being vaccinated, as this is known to be a deadly virus.

The National Coalition for Administration further urges the Governor of Kogi state to be a great leader to his people by not putting the life of Kogi people at risk. He advised removing the anti-political blindfold on his eyes.

Every life in this country is precious to our President. Ignorance and political hatred will not be excused or permitted to destroy President Muhammadu Buhari led administration.

God bless Nigeria,

God bless President Muhammadu Buhari.

PEF(M)B: Coalition clears Bobboi of nepotism allegations, lauds ES for transparent leadership


The Coalition of Human Rights Groups in Nigeria (CHRGN) has absolved the Executive Secretary of the Petroleum Equalization (Management) Board, Ahmed A. Bobboi of allegations of nepotism. 

The coalition noted that Bobboi has displayed an unalloyed commitment to achieving the mandate of the agency through the introduction of policies that promotes transparency and accountability. 

It said it came to this conclusion after an investigation to ascertain the veracity of the reports that border on workplace discrimination and favouritism. 

After a thorough probe, the CHRGN said it found no evidence to suggest the entrenchment of acts of nepotism and its likes in the operations of the agency. 

Speaking at a press conference on Thursday in Abuja through its President, Comrade Agibi Gabriel, the coalition also faulted the claim of lopsided recruitment in the agency. 

According to Gabriel, these allegations are acts of mischief propagated by some individuals and groups bent on puncturing the agency's smooth operation for reasons best known to them. 

Comrade Gabriel, however, warned individuals and groups bent on discrediting the ES efforts to desist from such unholy endeavours. 

He further said that the coalition shall not hesitate to identify and call out names of such individuals and organisations that are spreading mischief. 

While urging all Nigerians, particularly Civil Society Groups to back Mr Bobboi, the group urged the ES to continue to render selfless service to the country. 

Read full statement below: 

We welcome you all to the important press conference convoked to put issues in proper perspective given the recent events that suggest the entrenchment of acts of nepotism in the Petroleum Equalization (Management) Board. 

As a coalition of Human Rights Monitoring Groups in Nigeria, the various allegations levelled against the Executive Secretary of PEF (M)B attracted our attention. Consequently, we were duty-bound to examine the issues, carry out investigations to ascertain the veracity of such allegations that border on workplace discrimination and favouritism. 

The Coalition of Human Rights Groups in Nigeria sees this mandate as critical because Nigeria belongs to all and not a select few. As such, an act of nepotism and its likes would never be encouraged in all spheres of our social and economic lives. 

After a painstaking effort in analysing the issues with regards to the conduct of the executive secretary of PEF (M) B, we wish to inform the general public and other concerned stakeholders that there is no evidence to suggest the entrenchment of acts of nepotism and its likes in the operations of PEF (M) B. 

We also wish to state that there is considerable evidence indicating that the agency's recruitment processes have been founded on due process and with high regard for merit rather than religious or ethnic considerations as mischievously propagated in the media by some individuals and organisations. 

It is also instructive to mention that the agency's organisational structure is such that it cannot permit any act of nepotism as alleged. The institutional framework for recruitment and postings are such with multilayers of check and balances that involves constant scrutiny by various departments. 

We also wish to state that our findings also showed that the agency's work atmosphere is such that it speaks volumes of plurality and emphasises teamwork, accountability, and transparency. 

This much was further validated by staffer and union leaders who rated the executive secretary's leadership style as high on reward for hard work and with no room for any form of favouritism in the operations of the agency. 

The Coalition of Human Rights Monitoring Groups wishes to state in unequivocal terms that the allegations of nepotism are acts of mischief propagated by some individuals and groups bent on puncturing the agency's smooth operation for reasons best known to them. 

It is our considered opinion that such anomaly should not be allowed to thrive in Nigeria due to the country's plural nature and the consequent implication such might have on the country's overall peace and progress. 

The Coalition of Human Rights Groups in Nigeria is stating that the executive secretary of PEF(M)B has displayed an unalloyed commitment to achieving the mandate of the agency through the introduction of policies that promotes transparency and accountability, promotes cohesion amongst staffers as well as the emphasis placed on staff welfare. 

The leadership style of the executive secretary is indeed a lesson in leadership from all our findings. He is a stickler for time and one that abhors any form of ethnic or religious sentiments. He has also ensured that staffers remain productive in their work by creating an atmosphere that promotes devotion to duty by staff across all grades in the agency. 

We are consequently using this medium to warn individuals and groups that are bent on discrediting the executive secretary's efforts to desist from such unholy endeavours, which serves only to cause a distraction in the fulfilment of the strategic mandate of the agency.

The Coalition of Human Rights Groups in Nigeria shall not hesitate to identify and call out names of such individuals and organisations that are spreading mischief in the public space in the future in their puerile bid to score cheap political points. 

Our considered view is that such endeavours are unpatriotic and must be resisted by well-meaning Nigerians that are desirous of the progress of our country in all aspects of our socio-economic life. 

The Coalition of Human Rights Monitoring Groups in Nigeria is therefore calling on Nigerians to continue to extend their support to President Muhammadu Buhari's administration in that task of leading Nigeria on the path of greatness. 

It is also succinct to add that should Nigerians allow paid political distractors to thrive, we would have ourselves to blame as the task at hand requires all the concentration that it deserves. 

The Coalition of Human Rights Monitoring Groups in Nigeria wishes to encourage the executive secretary of PEF(M)B to continue to render selfless service to the country. We also encourage all relevant stakeholders in the country to extend their support to the executive secretary in this regard. 

I am thanking you all for your time and attention.

Nigeria’s military has taken delivery of VT-4 main battle tanks, SH-5 self-propelled howitzers and other equipment from China in an effort to strengthen its land forces in the battle against Boko Haram militants.

The equipment was acquired from China’s Norinco after being ordered last year under an apparent $152 million contract.

The equipment was unloaded on 8 April and included VT-4 main battle tanks, SH5 105 mm self-propelled artillery and other items.

Nigerian Army Chief of Policy and Plans Lieutenant General Lamidi Adeosun said, “The process of acquiring this has been on for some time but thank God they are coming in now. From this, you can see how serious the Federal Government of Nigeria is in making sure that the Nigerian Army is not only equipped, but contains problem of insecurity we are having across the country.

“This is being tackled with trained personnel and required equipment. What you are seeing here is just a tip of the iceberg. Others are still coming but it is very important that we all see that both the military and the government are really very serious to tackle the security problems across the nation.”

Adeosun said the delivery from China includes main battle tanks, light tanks and two types of artillery.

He added that personnel have been trained in China to operate the equipment.

According to Nigerian media, 17 vehicles were offloaded on Wednesday, including VT-4 main battle tank and ST1 light tanks.

In May 2019, Minister of Defence, Brigadier General Mansur Dan-Ali, said the Nigerian government had provided funding for the acquisition of modern equipment for the Nigerian armed forces, with some in service and others on the way.

This included 35 main battle tanks, 25 Typhoon MRAPs (mine-resistant, ambush protected vehicles), 10 Spartan armoured personnel carriers, 20 Armoured Guard Booths, five armoured mine-clearing vehicles, 50 troop-carrying vehicles and 40 Buffalo vehicles, among others for the Nigerian Army.

In addition, four Ships, 182 rigid hull inflatable and Epenal boats, four inshore patrol craft, two STAN Patrol Vessels and one helicopter were procured for the Nigerian Navy.

The Nigerian Air Force has benefited from the acquisition of 25 fixed wing aircraft and 12 helicopters, Dan-Ali said at the time.

The VT-4 (MBT-3000) main battle tank was built by Norinco for the export market and unveiled internationally in 2012.

The 52-ton vehicle has a crew of three (commander, driver and gunner – an automatic loader reduces crew numbers).

It is armed with a 125 mm smoothbore cannon, a remotely operated 12.7 mm anti-aircraft machine gun and a 7.62 mm coaxial machine gun but can also fire guided missiles.

It can be fitted with a GL5 active protection system.

The vehicle’s fire control unit also comprises roof-mounted panoramic sights, a laser warning device, and a digital gun control system designed to support day and night operation.

A 1 200 hp turbocharged diesel engine gives a maximum speed of 70km/h and range of 500 km.

The SH5 self-propelled artillery system is a development of Norinco’s SH2. It is armed with a 105 mm gun on a 6×6 platform.

The gun has an elevation of zero to 70 degrees with traverse being 30 degrees left and right. Range of the weapon is around 18 km.

The SH5 is fitted with a computerized fire-control system, including GPS navigation and positioning, targeting, and communications systems.

The SH5 has an armoured crew compartment, which is protected again small arms fire and shell splinters.

The vehicle has a top speed of 100 km/h and range of 800 km.

Ekiti State Governor, His Excellency Dr. Kayode Fayemi has pledged that his administration will do more on the security and welfare of Corps members serving in the state. He made the promise when he received the Director General of National Youth Service Corps, Brigadier General Shuaibu Ibrahim in his office in Ado Ekiti, the state capital today 23rd March, 2021.

The governor who condemned in very strong terms the violence that erupted during a bye-election last Saturday at Unit 7, Ward 7 of Omuo Ekiti in Ekiti East Local Government Area of the state, which left Corps member Saidu Mohammed Adamu (EK/20B1251) wounded tendered an unreserved apology to the Corps member and the entire NYSC family over the unfortunate incident, and stated that his administration in conjunction with security agencies are doing everything possible to fish out the papetrators of the heinous crime.

"On behalf of the government and entire people of Ekiti state, I apologize unreservedly to the affected Corps member and the NYSC Scheme. I want to assure you that we will not leave any stone unturned until we apprehend the criminals behind this ugly development, and we will ensure they are severely punished so as to serve as deterrent to others" he emphasized.

Governor Fayemi equally eulogized the Director General of NYSC for the swift actions he took when the sad event happened.

He said "I appreciate and commend your prompt response, setting aside so many critical engagements to come here and see the injured Corps member in person despite the fact that you have capable hands on ground. This is a demonstration of pragmatic leadership".

He assured that the state government will foot the bill of the Corps member's treatment.

Earlier, the NYSC helmsman thanked the governor for visiting the affected Corps member personally in hospital.

He used the occasion to call on Nigerians to always protect Corps members, especially those who volunteer to participate in the conduct of elections as adhoc staff of Independent National Electoral Commission.

"Our Corps members are apolitical and patriotic. They are not indigenes of their states of service, as such their willingness to volunteer to deliver free, fair and credible elections goes a long way to show their patriotism" he added.

He also thanked the governor for standing by the NYSC at this period of pain.

By Bridget Agada

The newest assignment in Nigeria now for the multitude of idlers, detractors and covert saboteurs is the administration of the Oxford AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine in the country. It swirled like harmattan breeze with every frenzy.

The Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) took delivery of the 3.92 million doses of the highly priced and scare vaccine in the determined efforts of President Muhammadu Buhari to secure public health. Mr. President has his eyes fixated on curbing the spread of the global Coronavirus pandemic; but those who perpetually pray for misfortunes to strike the country had already perfected plans to frustrate the inoculation process.

All manner of contorted tales were churned out to incite public rejection of the AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine. There were those contracted to campaign against the vaccine as a killer stuff released to Africa by Western countries to cause mass deaths in the plot to reduce the over bloated population of African continent. Social media activists also aligned it to disease-causing or inducement drug which would permanently keep those who succumbed to its vaccination hospitalized to death.

Yet, others linked the AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine to some indiscernible prohibitive cultural practices or abominations. But all the narratives sounded plausible only to the dimwitted. In spite of the gang-up to falsely chorus the failure of the Buhari Presidency on public health care delivery, the administration of the Covid-19 vaccine is steadily on course in Nigeria. What appeared like an initial impediment in the exercise is fizzling out.

The only obstacle to the effective administration of Covid-19 vaccine in Nigeria now is the furtherance of this national sabotage by the evildoers with the manufacturing and circulation of fake Coronavirus vaccines. Those who have fallen prey to these antics by accepting Covid-19 vaccines from the black market have mortgaged their lives to the unconscionable actions of some fraudulent Nigerians. It has been timed to coincide with the administration of the World Health Organization’s (WHO) approved AstraZeneca vaccines to create confusion.

Recently, a miffed management of Nigeria’s National Agency for Food Drug and Administration Control (NAFDAC) had to issue a public caution about the largescale and disturbing presence of fake Covid-19 vaccines in circulation. NAFDAC was blunt that it has not approved any local Covid-19 vaccine as bandied in public and the varieties of fake Covid-19 vaccines in circulation are responsible for the “Covid-like illnesses or other serious diseases that could kill" in people who have used it.

That’s why it is advisable to take Oxford AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccines only in Government designated medical facilities or institutions. To be forewarned, is to be forearmed!

Therefore, the skeptics, cynics and twisters of the reality are eventually finding themselves standing against naked truth with the fleshless propaganda. If there is a conspiracy to kill Africans through the Covid-19 vaccine, it implies that Nigeria is not the only country to fall into the trap in Africa, nay the world.

African countries like Ghana, Core d’Ivoire and other nations on the continent are massively vaccinating their citizens with the AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccines. WHO alongside with other international health bodies have approved scores of Covid-19 vaccines certified as safe and healthy for global usage. But Oxford AstraZeneca which is in use in Nigeria is rated as one of the best from the fleet principally because it has the potency to also boost human immune system.

The British Prime Minister has also been inoculated with the Oxford AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine. In Nigeria, President Buhari; the Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo and other top Government functionaries have all been inoculated with the AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine in turns.

Nigerians are very complex people to handle on public issues. Some people tend more to embrace darkness than light. Had the Buhari Presidency failed to acquire the Covid-19 vaccines, there would have been a lot of blackmailing campaigns on his person and Government by the egoistic opposition or some disgruntled elements. Now that the vaccines have been acquired, the campaigns have tilted to dissuading Nigerians from taking the inoculations, basing the arguments on unfounded conspiracy theories.

But the Englishman says, “tough times don’t last, but tough people do.” President Buhari has found reliable allies in the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19. They are wonderful Nigerians who are spending sleepless nights in deflating the malicious campaigns against the AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine and, simultaneously working round the clock in ensuring effective distribution and inoculation of Nigerians against Covid-19 disease. Every member of the team has performed excellently and deserves national recognition and honours for the utmost commitment and hard work.

However, Dr. Faisal Shuaib, Executive Director/ CEO, National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) is an exceptional character on the team of the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19. He is a complete workman who knows how to execute the briefs of his office faultlessly in times of national public health emergency.

Dr. Shuaib is one individual who has been able to justify the mandate of his office especially in this tough time. Firstly, the choice of AstraZeneca vaccine, with zero medical complications, aside boosting body immunity and protecting the body against other diseases’ have busted the potency of the baseless conspiracy theories concocted against the vaccine from certain quarters.

It is a thing of exceeding joy that for the several weeks Nigerians are being inoculated with the AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine, no single incident of post-inoculation health complications to date. It is the worthiest proof of its efficacy and health guarantee. It is reason, even volunteers have enlisted in the persuasive campaigns which are fast gaining currency throughout the country.

The NPHCDA boss’s ingenuity is gleaned in the brilliant strategies he adopted to distribute the vaccines and the initial administration of the AstraZeneca on certain categories of Nigerians across the country. Dr. Faisal Shuaib, streamlined the first categories of Nigerians to be immunized to include, high profile leaders, military and paramilitary workers and health personnel whose jobs expose them to frequent contacts with multitudes every day.

The Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), the apex medical body in the country has also attested to the validity, safety and potency of the Covid-19 AstraZeneca vaccines as its members are massively inoculating themselves against the pandemic. The good tidings is that some branches of the NMA are now at the forefront of leading public awareness campaigns to dispel the misgivings and urging Nigerians to come out en masses for vaccination.

Only recently, the Chairman of the Delta state chapter of NMA, Dr. Emmanuel Nwose, led other executive members, on a ‘School COVID-19 Awareness Programme,’ at the Unity Model Secondary School, Agbarho in Ughelli North Council area of the state. Had AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine any defects, the medical experts and practitioners are in the best position to know and reject it; but certainly, not some roadside artisans.

And most pleasurably, the seamless distribution of the vaccine across the country by the NPHCDA in record time is an apt indication that things can rightly be done in the right manner in Nigeria under the right leadership. Dr. Shuaib has symbolized or perfectly demonstrated and expressed this leadership. Indirectly, the NPHCDA boss is messaging the generality of Nigerians that the problem of the country is not of scarce human or material resources, but of genuine and committed leadership which is ready accept the responsibility to deliver on all assignments.

Dr. Faisal Shuaib, unlike other heads of government agencies, is evidently a very brilliant physician who has deployed humility, maturity, clarity of purpose and understanding of the pandemic to convert some naysayers who never gave the NPHCDA a chance to do its job. Today, some of these earlier anti-vaccine activists are singing praises of the NPHCDA in hushed tones to cover their shame. Leadership is indeed what Nigerians need and that’s all Nigerians demand every day.

Agada is an administrator and wrote from Guzape, Abuja.

The Coalition of Oduduwa Descendants (COD) has called on the National Security Adviser (NSA) Babagana Monguno to resign with immediate effect over several allegations bordering on corruption, fraud and abuse of office. 

The South-West coalition, at a press conference on Friday in Lagos, vowed to mobilise other ethnic groups to embark on what it describes as "mother of all protests" should the NSA remain in office. 

According to COD's national secretary, Comrade Lawson Adeshina, Monguno must step aside for the country to make progress in its fight against terrorists, bandits and other criminal elements. 

Adeshina noted that the NSA is more focused on managing terrorism as a business from which he has been reaping at the expense of peace and security in Nigeria. 

Speaking further, the COD scribe revealed that Monguno allegedly marked up contracts and inflated procurements which hampered the acquisition of critical military hardware. 

Adeshina, though, admitted that the immediate service chiefs would have done even better than they did had Monguno not abused his office to deny the country the opportunities to buy weapons. 

Having shown a "lack of capacity to be decent", the group, however, urged President Muhammadu Buhari to sack Monguno who it says is "unfit to continue to occupy the office of the National Security Adviser or any other public office for that matter". 

Upon his sack, the COD further urged that Monguno be investigated and put on trial for sundry crimes committed as a result of his greed.

Read the full statement below:

Gentlemen of the press, you must have noticed how concerns have increased among Nigerians about the seeming degeneration in the nation’s security situation. This is despite the sterling efforts that the military chiefs have put into securing lives and property in the country. 

Tragically, the immediate past military chiefs were demonized by those who do not understand the intricacies and circumstances under which they served. We are afraid that the incumbent military service chiefs may just be walking into the same barrage of problems unless something drastic happens. 

These problems have a collective name called the National Security Adviser, Babagana Monguno, whom we now understand is more focused on managing terrorism as a business from which he has been profiteering at the expense of peace and security in Nigeria. 

It is most unfortunate that at a time when Monguno should have been focused on procuring weapons for prosecuting the war against Boko Haram and terrorism he was rather vested in marking up contracts and inflating procurements such that critical military hardware was not acquired as at when due. This bottleneck was responsible for many deaths as the delays or failure to get this equipment contributed to what people had thought was a lack of capacity on the part of the military. 

Gentlemen of the press, please note that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has secured a court order to freeze the properties linked to a former Director of Finance in the Office of the NSA, Brigadier-General Jafaru Mohammed, who is a confirmed crony of Monguno.

We are worried that Monguno’s treasonous tendencies were such that he sold the entire country out to his Emirati associates at the International Golden Group (IGG), which he fronted on many occasions as the choice company to secure government contracts including, even for the supply of Hilux Pickups that local firms can handle. 

It is now glaring that the entirety of Monguno’s crimes was concealed because he can abuse his office as the National Security Adviser (NSA) to sabotage investigation and prosecution. To the extent that Jafaru Mohammed has been nailed and have an asset forfeiture order secured against him, the man he ran errands for, the NSA should have by now been in a similar situation with him.

What we saw however was a Monguno, who was trying to soil the hard-earned reputation of men who diligently served the nation, the immediate past service chiefs. With the benefit of hindsight, we now believe that these men could have done even better than they did had Monguno not abused his office to deny the country the opportunities to buy weapons. Each time he inflated or marked contracts up, he made it impossible for the military and the Nigeria Police Force to buy the equipment that was desperately needed to fight crime and secure Nigeria against terrorists. We only wish that someone had called him out earlier. 

One can thus now categorically say that the problem of inadequate or in some instances the total lack of equipment to fight terrorism is responsible for the scenario where kidnappers, bandits and terrorists have become bold and are now holding the country buy the jugular was caused and aggravated by Monguno. This is the highest travesty possible: the man who should deploy his expertise for making Nigeria secure as National Security Adviser preferred to abuse his office to make Nigeria ungovernable and into a veritable killing field.

We do not want to believe at this point the theory in some quarters that Monguno orchestrated the explosive growth of terrorism, banditry and kidnapping to create a desperate condition that will allow him to carry out the fraudulent procurements that he has been eager to do but has been persistently blocked from doing by those who have the interest at heart. But the theory remains a genuine concern because nothing about the virulence of insecurity besetting appears normal. Nothing adds up, which makes it most likely that only someone so strategically positioned could have precipitated the kind of anomaly that is now tormenting the land. 

Equally worrisome is the muted allegations that ethnic sympathies on the path of the NSA have made defeating Boko Haram/ISWAP difficult because persons of his ethnic stock are commanders of the terrorist group. The parochial manner in which Monguno is willing to make money at the expense of the country is however making one have a rethink as to the possibility of such cringe-worthy compromise on the part of someone that the nation relied on to defeat terrorists. 

We should not forget that Monguno’s first brush with integrity was the ill-fated Presidential Panel that investigated arms purchases. He was linked with several allegations of unsavoury comprises and extortion rackets manned by his associates. Given what we now know about his dealings, it is no surprise that he was able to coerce key witnesses into silence and swept that scandal under the carpet, or so he had thought. 

It is unthinkable that an appointee of President Muhammadu Buhari, who promised Nigerians improved security, could have jeopardized the military and the police force of the country with such impunity. Monguno has simply demonstrated that he has no sense of loyalty to either the country or his Commander-in-Chief. This is an untenable position.

In other climes, committing a tenth of the infractions alleged against Monguno would have seen the officeholder act honourably and resign, if only to allow for transparent investigation of the accusations made. The full array of Monguno’s infractions and their implications for national security make him. 

To the extent that he has shown a lack of capacity to be decent, we hereby demand that President Buhari immediately sacks Babagana Monguno as the National Security Adviser. He has to go for Nigeria to make progress in addressing the hydra security challenges that are daily defying the intense efforts at curtailing them simply because some dubious people have set up the system for the country to remain in trouble.  A failure to sack Monguno will see the Coalition of Oduduwa Descendants (COD) mobilizing other ethnic and community-based groups on the mother of all protests since Monguno’s greed has compromised the safety of all of us. 

We additionally demand that Monguno, upon his sack, must be further investigated and put on trial for sundry crimes he has committed as a result of his avarice. Nigeria is bigger than Monguno and it is time that he feels the full weight of the law for all the things he has done to put the country in the present dire strait it is in.

Senator Ifeanyi Ararume’s fresh hopes to be declared winner of the December 5th Imo North bye-election were dashed on Thursday day following a restraining order by a High Court in Owerri.
Presiding Justice E.O. Agada issued an interim order restraining the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from recognising Senator Ararume as the winner of the bye-election.
The suit brought by the All Progressive Grand Alliance  (APGA) and some of its members was brought pursuant to order 7 Rule 5 (1) , (2) and Order 39 Rule 1 of the High Court of Imo Court (Civil Procedure) Rules 2017.
Justice Agada further restrained INEC from issuing Ararume with Certificate of Return or any other instrument in his favour pending the hearing and determination of the Motion on Notice in the suit.
Ararume had earlier in the day obtained a court order issued by Justice Taiwo Taiwo of the Federal High Abuja declaring him as the authentic APC candidate for the December 5, 2020, Imo North Senatorial bye-election.
Thereafter, Justice Taiwo ordered INEC to issue a certificate of return to Ararume within 72 hours based on the INEC result declaring APC winner of the bye election.
Frank Ibezim had filed a notice of appeal and stay of execution at the appeal court challenging Taiwo’s judgement.
He decried the judgement declaring Ararume as the APC candidate as a travesty of justice since the Supreme Court has already decided the issue of who the APC candidate for the Imo North Senatorial bye election in his favour.
He expressed the view that it is a settled matter of law that Judges do not adjudicate further any case already before an appellate court.
On the issue of the High court disqualifying him as a candidate, Ibezim said he had already appealed the ruling before the Supreme Court.
He opined that Justice Taiwo ought to have exercised discretion and allowed the apex court to finally decide on the matter before arriving at a decision.

Justice Taiwo Taiwo of the Federal High Court Abuja has created what many judicial watchers referred to as confusion in the judiciary when he overruled the Supreme Court judgement which affirmed Sir Frank Ibezim as the authentic Senatorial candidate of the All Progressives Congress(APC) in Imo State.
Justice Taiwo today March 18, 2021
Ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission(INEC)to ignore the Supreme Court and issue Ararume Certificate of Return.
However, in a swift reaction to the judgement, Ibezim has gone ahead to file for Order of Stay of Execution at the Appeal Court.

Details shortly...

By Abba Gana

Pen merchants are unchallengeable kings in their respective domains. They operate like emperors; determining and twisting everything as it suits their evil designs. Its common to see them invent their own rules, redefine existing conventions separate from universally accepted norms and ethics of the profession.

They operate like soldiers by turning newsrooms into battle grounds against perceived enemies. Once contracted writers pencil down a word, it is to destroy a target or a stubborn client who has refused to “play ball;” a Nigerian phrasal euphemism for bribe or kick-backs.

SaharaReporters has really distinguished itself in the field of junk journalism. It publishes anything even where the verified contents or facts of the story resists or contradicts their demonic intentions. Commercialized reporters depend heavily on assumptions and sensationalism in reportage. Many of these folks have a comfortable tent in the online news portal, SaharaReporters. Every day, they come to work with knives and swords to strike any hapless person.

For some days now, an interview, the National Security Adviser (NSA) Major Gen. Babagana Monguno (rtd) granted the BBC Hausa Service generated national uproar. The top security chief falsely accused the immediate past Service Chiefs of diverting the $1 billion funds the FGN sourced from Excess Crude Account (ECA) in 2018, which he claimed was allegedly released to them for the purchase of weapons to fight terrorism and other insecurities in the country.

Within 24 hours, Gen. Monguno repudiated himself denying feverishly and vehemently of making such allegations against the past Service Chiefs. Monguno was enraged that he was misquoted or misunderstood. Yet, he had the option of claiming it as a slip of tongue. But he avoided this angle. Therefore, he replayed what he thought was his actual words at the BBC interview.

But torrents of counter-reactions to Gen. Monguno’s disease of verbal diarrhea sprouted. The Presidency was blunt that it is not possible to even contemplate embezzlement of $1billion released for the purchase of arms to fight insecurities under his watch.

Frankly, it made no enduring sense that President Muhammadu Buhari who is still prosecuting Monguno’s predecessor, Col. Sambo Dasuki (rtd) and others for diverting and embezzling $2.1 billion for the purchase of arms under the Jonathan Presidency would consent to the same act of sleaze under his Presidency. It didn’t blend with reality.

Even in President Buhari’s worse elements, it is bizarre to think he would have allowed the former Service Chiefs to embezzle $1billion for weapons procurement. And thereafter, prominent individuals and organizations publicly condemned Gen. Monguno insensitivity and naked display of incompetence on the fluid allegation.

But Nigerians have an entrenched mentality of destruction. Following the recant by Monguno, others felt he was cajoled into refuting himself. It was expected that those with such thoughts would have compelled Gen. Monguno to release details of his allegations or leak out the details to them secretly. But they were hesitant.

However, as the king of fake news in Nigeria, SaharaReporters’s publication of March 16, 2021, dazzled Nigerians with this sensational headline “REVEALED: How $1billion For Ammunition Under Buhari Was Secretly Released, Shared Among Buratai, Other Ex-Military Chiefs.” It was a captivating and attractive caption, except that the contents only derided the reputation of the medium.

On the periphery, many Nigerians thought the online publication has stumbled over amazing and exceptional facts on the “missing” $1billion arms procurement fund released to the ex-Service Chiefs under the Buhari Presidency. One expected a full disclosure of how the immediate past Service Chiefs cornered $1billion arms procurement fund silently.

Disappointingly though, a perusal of the publication showed an embarrassing emptiness and devoid of any modicum of detail. It misplaced common facts; but it was heavily embellished with fake fabrications and poorly aligned to screaming sensationalism by the constructors of the tales.

For instance, SaharaReporters wrote in the publication; “… the $1billion release, which was greeted with widespread criticisms when President Buhari announced so in April 2018, was approved by the National Assembly and shared with the military arms in 2019 without public knowledge to avoid more criticisms.” How could the money have been shared to the three arms of the Nigerian Military, in 2019?

Facts in public domain obstinately contracts the publication’s claim that the $496 million released to the Nigerian Airforce on the Super Tucano fighter jets was in 2019. Even Mr. President’s letter of anticipatory approval to the National Assembly was dated April 13, 2018; by which time, the $496 million was already paid directly into the treasury of the US Government. So, which Nigerian Airforce received the Super Tucano fighter jets funds; is it the Airforce operated by SaharaReporters?

Again, SaharaReporters defamed its corporate image by writing that the “…(former)Service chiefs received the funds but they deliberately chose not to make public knowledge of it.” What bemusing logic? How could the ex-Service Chiefs publicize funds which did not pass through their offices? This is journalist hooliganism!

And since SaharaReporters is famed for shamelessness and mercantile journalism; it quoted an unattributed source in the Defence Headquarters as saying; “The military chiefs were asked not to state to the public how the money was spent or when it was received. But it came and the three arms of the military got their shares.”

Are the news reporters in SaharaReporters telling the world that it does not know the basic channels of official communication? Is SaharaReporters expecting that the ex-Service Chiefs would have usurped the functions of the Defence spokesman? This is the personal damage blackmailing journalism does to its apostles; it keeps you blind to basic facts and trends.

SaharaReporters disgracefully pleasured in cooking and circulating imaginary figures just to force the impression that the former Service Chiefs received the $1 billion for the purchase of weapons. So, it baselessly wrote; “Also, about $381million was released to the army and navy for the purchase of critical equipment.” Why did its unnamed source in the Defence headquarters fail to disclose how the funds were released to the Army and the Navy? This vagueness only ascribes to sensational journalism.

Furthermore, the online medium narrated “… sources in the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation (said) that about $900million had since been released to the military.” So, it is no longer the whole $1 billion it initially canvassed as released to the three arms of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN)? Therefore, the conjectures as replayed by SaharaReporters only to reinforce a feeble and baseless impression that the ex-Service Chiefs allegedly embezzled weapons procurement fund.

Whilst Monguno has failed to tarnish the reputation of the past Service Chiefs by his unnecessary mouthing, SaharaReporters has refused to give up on its agenda to destroy Nigeria. The online medium has chosen to launch a war against the former Service Chiefs without any weapons to support its cause. It’s a display of confounding insanity.

Once more and for clarity’s sake, no former Service Chief got any monies to buy warfare equipment and this fact can still be verified. Their briefs in office does not include procurement of weapons. It is strictly the statutory responsibility of the Ministry of Defence. How and why, they are dragged into the picture is perplexing.

SaharaReporters, its masters and acolytes who hate the ex- Service Chiefs should look elsewhere to fart the hate and hide their faces in shame thereafter. Should these same people hurling meaningless darts at the former Service Chiefs be probed today, they will come out worse than their predecessor in the Dasukigate. Even tales by moonlight in the days of yore, had more entertaining value than the trash churned out by SaharaReporters and its co-conspirators.

Gana wrote this piece from Maitama, Abuja.

By David Onmeje

“Whenever you are confronted with an opponent. Conquer him with love.” - Mahatma Gandhi (former Indian Prime Minister)

The sudden re-engagement of Nigeria’s former Chief of Army Staff (COAS) and leader of anti-insurgency operations, retired Lt. Gen. Tukur Yusuf Buratai for another national assignment was a pleasant shock to his friends and admirers. But it certainly angered his enemies and foes.

Gen. Buratai (rtd) morphed into the diplomatic scene as one of Nigeria’s non-career ambassadors barely weeks after his resignation from active military service. Surely, Gen. Buratai was also consternated with his nomination as non-career ambassador-designate. He least expected that Nigeria would reward his hard work and loyalty to the country with another appointment. His allegiance to Nigeria is unquestionably translucent.

Expectedly, life is a mixture of good and sad moments. Throughout Gen. Buratai’s military career, spanning decades, Gen. Buratai’s most difficult moments were the near six years he served as Nigeria’s number one soldier and chief armour bearer of the country’s war against organized and armed criminal gangs terrorizing the nation. Gen. Buratai fought battles; he wrestled relentlessly with Nigeria’s internal and external enemies every day of the last six years of his military service.

Gen. Buratai fought Boko Haram insurgents and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists in the plains, caves and mountains of the Nigeria’s Northeast region. He defiantly pulled the trigger against armed bandits and other criminal elements in the Northwest. He crippled violent and bloody secessionists in the Southeast and descended his military might on sabotaging militants in the creeks of the Niger Delta; and simultaneously, confronted ethnic warlords and armed militias elsewhere in the country.

Gen. Buratai dispensed himself as a soldier with the strength of a lion. He provided enviable leadership and direction. He was calm, focused and calculative while battling Nigeria’s enemies. Gen. Buratai maximally deployed his military intelligence and brilliance to murder sleep in the camps of Nigeria’s enemies. Every day, his life was at risk, but it never bothered him. He had only one ambition; to conquer the foes and enemies of Nigeria using his endowed military strategies and tactics. In spite of the difficulties, he posted commendable results in these assignments.

He patriotically and dedicatedly stood up for his fatherland, where others faltered. Fate confined Gen. Buratai to fighting other peoples battles so that his compatriots would live in peace and security. And he loved the job and performed his very best.

But warring in the trenches were not the only battles Gen. Buratai actively fought. He wrestled with many other forces. So, ironically, whilst he devoted his strength and life to a just cause of liberating humanity; some of the same persons he laboured to set free anointed themselves as his enemies.

The enemies attacked, disparaged and distracted Gen. Buratai. He was maligned and persecuted for no reasonable cause. Others secretly wished him death or even cursed him. They played every antic under the sun to humiliate and disgrace him. The enemies wished his progress should be guillotined. Gen. Buratai personally knew most, if not all of his enemies and adversaries. He could conveniently predict their next plot against him.

Nonetheless, the spirit of patriotism and nationalism in Gen. Buratai surpassed any other consideration. He had absolute conviction in the national assignment given to him by President Muhammadu Buhari. Therefore, Gen. Buratai was more obsessed with its success, than any contemplated failure, should he allow adversaries divert his attention. So, he never chased the shadows of his enemies, but concentrated on his job.

Gen. Buratai understood perfectly the philosophy that true success does not come on a platter of gold. There must hindrances and encumbrances on the path. It is no easy ride anywhere and anytime. Famed American novelist, director and producer Sidney Sheldon once wrote that “To be successful you need friends and to be very successful you need enemies.”

Therefore, Gen. Buratai courted and befriended his enemies to tap from their wisdom. As a devout Muslim, Gen. Buratai drew inspiration from Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy, which said; “It is easy enough to be friendly to one's friends. But to befriend the one who regards himself as your enemy is the quintessence of true religion. The other is mere business.”

Today Gen. Buratai’s story is aptly reflective of the narrative of “grace to grace.” His Excellency, Ambassador Tukur Yusuf Buratai conquered his enemies with love and affection. He wiped their tears each time the opportunity rendered itself, instead of scolding them. He comforted them when they wailed and taught them the principles of universal brotherhood. It has been his greatest weapon of conquering or overcoming his enemies at all times.

Ambassador Buratai has mastered the act of letting his adversaries see the other side of his personage. He has enough dosage of the virtues of humaneness, kindness and compassion. Buratai is detribalized, selfless and a team player. He believes in a world which should be free for all to consummate their full potentials in fraternity.

Thus, he made friends indiscriminately all over the universe. His military training and exposure laid a template which taught him the wisdom of the British author, George Orwell who exclaimed in one of his novels “1984” that “We do not merely destroy our enemies; we change them.”

Gen. Buratai has changed his perception many souls who have personally come in contact with him. He has built bridges across tribes and religion. He has contributed immensely in cementing relationships amongst nations. But above all, Gen. Buratai is passionate about a world insulated from troubles and wherever peace is shattered, he mends broken fences. His newest assignment as Nigeria’s ambassador might just be the beginning of his further rise to greater stardom.

That’s why his words at the dinner organized in his honour by members of 29th Regular Course Association are very instructive; “It’s an honourable retirement and also an honourable appointment. I’m not a politician, so, I have no word for the opposition. I have done well.”

But most importantly, Gen. Buratai believes that whatever he achieved in his military career, every Nigerian was with him in the frontlines and in the trenches. And so, he sent his gratitude to all without exception; “I must appreciate all Nigerians, my well-wishers, the youths, elders, men and women for their continuous prayers, goodwill and support to the Nigerian Army and me in the course of our duties to bring about peace and security in our country.”

Onmeje wrote this piece from the United Kingdom.

Pan Yoruba Youth group, Igbimo Odo Yoruba has congratuled Chief Ayo Adebanjo over his emergence as the new leader of pan Yoruba socio cultural group, Afenifere. Chief Adebanjo becamethe new leader of our organization, Afenifere, after its former leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti stepped down due to old age.

In a statement issued in Ibadan on Wednesday and signed by it's Leader, Olufemi Lawson, the group said Afenifere remains the strongest voice in advancing the interests of the Yoruba race at the national stage and Chief Adebanjo represents the needed character, to uphold such responsibility.

"We are particularly delighted that our leaders in Afenifere, have continued to demonstrate commitments to the ideals of our founding fathers, as their decisions have continually re-energize us to pursue the common good, with an unbending commitment to ensure Nigeria is governed better."

"Pa Ayo Adebanjo is a brilliant and courageous leader, his audacity is unequalled, and we are convinced in his ability to sustain the legacies of his predecessors, most importantly, the aspiration of our people for a restructured, genuinely progressive and prosperous nation." the statement concluded.

A and T global services limited and Kaita integrated services limited in conjunction with National Drug Law Enforcement Agency have called on youths in Imo North senatorial district to shun drug abuse.

The group made this call on Thursday during a sensitization And awareness campaign organised by the group within Imo North Senatorial district.

According to the organizations head, led by babatunde Micheal and sulueiman Musa, they appeal to youths to stop engaging in sales of drugs around school premises. They equally appeal led to parents to monitor there children.

“ the increasing rate of drug abuse and alcohol consumption among youths of secondary schools in the state, which is one of the problems affecting school-age teenagers.

“ such an experiment with drugs, alcohol, and tobacco times started from elementary schools and reach a peak in high schools where its adverse effect is remarkably high on the students.

“ the unrestrained abuse of drugs, alcohol, tobacco and other prohibited drugs used by students hinder the achievements of their educational attainment and leverage to vices such as gangsterism, gang rape, and cultism”, he added.

“It is also concerned about the need to embark on sensitisation campaign programmes on the dangers of drugs, alcohol, and tobacco among the students and its harmful effects as schools resumes from forced closure occasioned by COVID-19 Pandemic,” he said.

Sourvenirs like T-shirt, biro, bags and exercise books with inscriptions of " say no to drug abuse were distributed amongst the youths during the sensitization

A leading pro-Nigeria civil society group, Nigeria First, has sued for peace and calm amongst citizens in the face of ongoing negotiations on the total deregulation of Nigeria’s oil industry.

Nigeria First whilst throwing its weight behind the Federal Government in its ongoing reforms in the Oil and Gas sector, blamed fake news and misinformation for the current misunderstanding over the yet to be concluded negotiations on PMS pump price between the Federal Government and other stakeholders in the sector.

Speaking at a press conference on Sunday in Abuja, Secretary-General, Comrade Augustine Richard Adie, accused manipulators in the petroleum industry of selling an agenda to the public by refusing to accept all clarifications made by the authorities. 

According to Adie, these " detractors and saboteurs have sold the inciting dummy to gullible Nigerians and the result is panic-buying, and deliberate hoarding of petroleum products to create artificial scarcity to satisfy their excessive quest for profits". 

Adie further noted that the aim is to undermine President Muhammadu Buhari's laudable reforms in the sector, knowing fully well that he does not determine the price of PMS in the international market. 

Adie added that neither the president, petroleum ministry,  Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation or the country's oil managers have added a penny to the current price regime of petroleum products. 

"There is an unconscionable linking of the Muhammadu Buhari led Federal Government with mindless price increments on petroleum products to further inflict hardships on Nigerians. The news is false in all accuracy of the realities on the ground!," the statement read partly. 

"But for days, the manipulators in the Oil and Gas industry and speculators of the fake news have been insistent on selling this agenda to the public by refusing to accept all clarifications made by the authorities . This is despite the officially repeated refutations by the Ministry of Petroleum, the NNPC, PPPRA and other subsidiary companies in the Oil and Gas sector.

"The detractors and saboteurs have sold the inciting dummy to gullible Nigerians and the result is panic-buying, and deliberate hoarding of petroleum products to create artificial scarcity to satisfy their excessive quest for profits. The intention is to discredit President Buhari, who does not determine the price of PMS in the international market which is strictly regulated by OPEC.     

"We wish to state categorically clear to all Nigerians that neither President Muhammadu Buhari nor the Petroleum Ministry or the NNPC, Nigeria’s oil managers have added a penny to the current price regime of petroleum products. There is enough supply of PMS all over Nigeria.

"What has happened is that through a consensus of Nigeria’s think-tank/ stakeholders, particularly in the Oil and Gas industry, including high profile leaders, a tentative consensus was reached that oil subsidy be dropped in 2021."

Nigeria First, however, urged Nigerians to remain calm as there is no price increase in PMS or any other petroleum product. 

It noted that the prevailing PMS price still stands until consultations are finally concluded and the decisions reached shall be officially communicated to all .

While assuring Nigerians of PMS supply for the foreseeable future, the group hoped that the subverts and greedy profiteers shall be caught and made to face the law. 

Adie further assured Nigerians that Mr. President is ready to protect their interests at all time, taking into account his extraordinary reforms and transparency in the Oil and Gas industry. 

"The transparency and accountability in the sector as experienced now are novel to Nigerians and we must all trust and repose full confidence in Mr President who doubles as the Petroleum Minister in ensuring that marketers are monitored and no arbitrary charges or profits are adopted by marketers and stakeholders in the industry to impose hardships on Nigerians," Adie said. 

"The current artificial scarcity which is occasioned by fake news and selfish manipulators in the industry is highly regretted. It is a conduct worthy of condemnation by all Nigerians". 

The Nigeria First, however, urged the key actors in the Oil and Gas sectors not to relent, but to compliment the President’s efforts in its accountability drive to continue to protect the interest of the masses in the Oil and Gas industry.

By Philip Agbese

The advertised reality of Nigeria as a terribly endangered country is quite unfortunate.  It clear to all of us that having vociferous characters like Babagana Monguno as the Nigeria’s National Security Adviser (NSA) have laid strong pillars of the country’s path to self-perdition. It is strange and a misnomer in Nigeria’s history to consistently see the effluxions of an NSA in the media.

With due respect, I don’t think Monguno has any scant regard for the high office of NSA. He is either briefing State House Correspondents on the outcome of meetings of the National Security Council (NSC) or granting reckless media interviews or even a suspicious stealthy romance with the Nigerian media divulging top security secretes. That’s the job of politicians; but certainly, it is outside the purview of the office of the NSA.

Monguno  is always publicly mouthy and observes no restrictions. This posture tells us, we no longer need to consult soothsayers to know the tormentors of Nigeria’s security are within. With Monguno’s constant public parroting, as a topnotch security aide to Mr. President , it means the terrorists, armed bandits and the conspirators need no special technology to decode our strategy. It can be found on Google, YouTube and Facebook.

I should not be the one informing Monguno that the power and efficacy of security management   resides substantially in secrecy and confidentiality, especially in this age of insurgency being faced by Nigeria. But sadly, he pays no attention to it. 

Monguno reportedly told the world in an interview with BBC Hausa Service last Friday that large chunk of monies Mr. President approved for the purchase of arms to fight terrorism or insecurity in the country have remained unaccountable by the Nigerian Military authority. He was ostensibly referring to the $1 billion sourced from the Excess Crude Account (ECA) in 2018 to pay the US Government for the purchase of 12 Super Tucano fighter jets when the former Service Chiefs held sway.

Monguno recanted these alleged utterances almost immediately when the news went viral. I have grudgingly accepted Monguno’s afterthought refutations of the statements credited to him and his claims of being quoted out of context.  But clearly, it was a deliberate gaffe, crafted and delivered by Monguno for reasons best known to him.

But the timing of this statement was sensitive and played effectively into national psyche. Before now, some mischievous  Nigerians raised eyebrows and questioned the utilization of the $1 billion for procurement of arms. Some even blended or likened it with all falsities to something akin with the Dasukigate scandal.  

That Monguno deemed it expedient to publicly comment on the matter, told me clearly, Nigeria has a “A Long Walk To Freedom.”  The counter-reaction from the Presidency, explained it all, by stating the known facts already in public domain on the $1billion from ECA, released in 2018 for the purchase of 12 Super Tucano fighter jets from America.

Whether it was a mistake or a misquote of Monguno, I don’t know how the excitement with media presence or voice has become the obsession of the NSA. It was not the culture of preceding Nigeria’s NSAs. The NSAs usual traits known to us are reticence and invisibility in public domain. They did not transform into media freaks or pundits. 

NSAs are not supposed to be heard or seen; but basically, confine themselves strictly to the arduous task of churning out initiatives and policies for the promotion and preservation of national security. Never before have NSAs become town-criers or vuvuzelas like it catches the fancy of Monguno now.

The best actions of NSAs are seen by the President and the people in terms of practical improvement in the security situation of the nation.  But now, it looks more like, we have a third presidential "spokesman" in this case, as exemplified by Monguno's media-hoopla disposition.

We have seen Monguno’s predecessors’ in the likes of  Aliyu Gusau, famed as the most dangerous covert spy master;  Abdullahi Sarki Muktar, Kayode Are, Owoye Andrew Azazi and even  Monguno’s  immediate predecessor, Dasuki Sambo. But never at any time did they morph into Presidential spokespersons on security matters. Their briefs started and ended with advising Mr. President or aiding to formulate workable initiatives on subsisting or emerging security threats to the country.   

However, in spite of the NSA’s rebuttal, he has already bruised many souls and the psychological damage is quite enormous. He has given mischief makers and detractors another opportunity to unnecessarily upbraid the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari because the  “wrong” news went viral before his confutation came.

Monguno is fond of this indulgence. Nigerians still recount the leaked memo saga between Monguno and Abba Kyari (of blessed memory), Buhari’s former chief of staff (Cos). Monguno wrote the memo to the Presidency complaining about the usurpation of his powers as NSA by the former Chief of Staff. Soon after, the official memo on security found its way into public space and became a subject of heated national discourses.

He has probably recanted himself in this instance because of the heat his statements generated. But it has not obviated the reality that Monguno is overstretching himself and his responsibilities or enfeebled by the workload of the office of NSA.

He shows more than passing interest or glibly switches on and tenaciously holds unto the boardroom politics of close aides of the Presidency in the Villa, than concentrate on his job of germinating ideas to improve national security. Monguno’s belated denials, notwithstanding, but his outbursts conveyed a sweeping vote of no confidence in the Commander-in-Chief, President Muhammadu  in public court  or at least, it has hinted of his intention to do so very soon.

I believe it is not the brief of the   NSA to always seek to be in the news or castigating other appointees of the President in the security sector. Or is it his responsibility to always engage the media with expositions on security policies, frameworks or its operationalization?

And for public clarity to eclipse some misconceptions, the former or serving Service Chiefs have no briefs to handle any special weapons procurement fund. The $1 billion from ECA  was paid directly to the Ministry of Defence. It was the Minister of Defence that did all the payments and procurements on behalf of the FGN in conjunction with other relevant Government financial institutions. And the transaction was paid directly to the treasury of the US Government as explicitly conveyed by the letter of anticipatory approval, Mr. President forwarded to the National Assembly (NASS) dated April 13, 2018.

Disappointingly, even the Monguno public statement of rebuttal betrayed him unwittingly; It read; “We would like to state that the NSA was quoted out of context as he did not categorically say that funds meant for arms procurement were missing under the former Service Chiefs as reported or transcribed by some media outlets from the BBC interview.”

By stating that he “…did not categorically say that funds meant for arms procurement were missing under the former Service Chiefs….,” Monguno either implied or conveyed some intentional ambiguity in the rebuttal; or uttered something close to the accusations, or nursed such feelings, but only shirked from saying it expressly. 

Even by his own admittance of what he confessed as saying, what relevance were the ideas canvassed to resolving the insecurities in Nigeria? It was absolutely unnecessary and added no scintilla of value to the ongoing counter-insurgency operations. Monguno must know, serving Military chiefs are not politicians.

Monguno’s presumed submission in the BBC Hausa Service interview would have been better disgorged by a politician, like may be, the Minister of Defence.  Monguno must learn to keep his tongue in cheek and purge himself from media excitement.

And did the phrase by Monguno which pledged; “…President Buhari’s continued commitment to provide all necessary support to the Armed Forces, including the provision of arms and equipment,” an indirect indictment of Mr. President or free information to the terrorists and bandits that “all necessary support to the Armed Forces, including the provision of arms and equipment,” have not been provided already by President Buhari to security agencies?

Monguno should be more circumspect next time and avoid public political comments on national security issues. Mr. NSA, in plain terms and based on your recent unpatriotic or outrightly  confused outings in Nigeria's top echelon of security leadership, it only tells me that you are fatigued on the job.


The most viable alternative at your disposal now is to throw in the gauntlet and honourably quit the scene or seek reposting to a suitable dormant sector. Mr. President in his usual magnanimity, might repost you to one of these docile establishment to leisure yourself out! The demands of the office of the NSA are clearly beyond your competence now.

Agbese is a Publisher with TheNigerian News and wrote this piece from the United Kingdom.

Some renowned Christian and Muslim clerics in the country have approved the Oxford/Astrazeneca coronavirus vaccine for all Nigerians irrespective of faith.  

Adopting the slogan 'Covid-19 Vaccine is Safe for Health and Life', the inter-faith group, under the auspices of National Inter-Faith and Religious Organizations for Peace (NIFROP) declared the vaccines safe and effective for Nigerians. 

The group made these known on Tuesday in a communique issued at the end of its executive session on the public falsehoods and myths against the administration of the vaccines. 

In the communique co-signed by its President, Bishop Sunday Garuba and Assistant Secretary, Rev. Andelm Francis, the clerics also hailed the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) for the seamless arrival and roll out of the vaccines.

According to the NIFROP, NPHCDA's leadership has shown competence and expertise so far.  

The group, therefore, urged all Nigerians to ignore conspiracy theories and support the health agency in ridding the nation of the deadly contagion. 

Declaring the vaccines "good for all citizens irrespective of religious creeds or ethnicity identity", the NIFROP added that it should be embraced by all to enhance greater public health. 

The clerics, however, implored all Nigerians to be vigilant and report any act of impropriety or sharp practices by anybody to the nearest authority for appropriate actions.  

Read full communique below:

Preamble:   

After the FGN took delivery of the first consignment of the COVAX Covid-19 vaccines and the commencement of the immunization process, NIFROP met in an executive session in Abuja, deliberated and examined the public falsehoods and myths contrived against the expected administration of the vaccines on Nigerians.  Below are the observations, resolutions and recommendations by NIFROP;  

OBSERVATIONS:

The National Inter-Faith and Religious Organizations for Peace (NIFROP) profoundly thanked and appreciated the Federal Government, under the leadership of President Muhammadu Buhari; and the Presidential Task Force on Covid-19 for the collective and tireless efforts so far to contain Covid-19 in Nigeria. These measures have assisted enormously in curtailing the spread of the deadly Covid-19 pandemic, with comparatively lesser infection and casualties in Nigeria. 

NIFROP welcomed the arrival of the 3.94 million dosages of Covid-19 vaccine into the country, which we monitored from the point of flight-landing at the airport in Abuja; the discharge of the vaccines and its storage by prescribed medical standards.  This is commendable. 

We also observed the meticulous and highly professional job/work competence as exhibited by the team of experts at the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA). NIFROP observed with unquestionable clarity, the thorough job done by NPHCDA in the choice of the vaccines and the transparency in handling or management of the vaccination exercise across the country so far, including the logistics. It is also very commendable. 

NIFROP glowingly commended the President and the Vice President for leading by example, in kick-starting the inoculation exercise publicly. This will certainly encourage other Nigerians who are sceptical about the vaccine based on the false conjectures and conspiracy theories are woven around it by detractors to also get immunized. 

Finally, we observed the fake campaigns on alleged inflated logistics and condemned them.  We totally disowned the rumours that 10 billion naira have been earmarked to be spent on transportation of vaccines to different parts of the country. We, therefore, pleaded with Nigerians to give the Presidential Task Force in alliance with NPHCDA the benefit of hindsight to carry out its mandate without any campaign of falsehood or distractions of any sort. 

RESOLUTIONS: 

Therefore, NIFROP unanimously adopted the slogan of “Covid-19 Vaccine is Safe for Health and Life.” It is our public appeal, awareness message and campaigns throughout the country as a stamp of our endorsement and trust in the efficacy of the Covid-19 vaccines. 

By the declaration, NIFROP hereby, unequivocally states that the Covid-19 vaccines are good for all citizens irrespective of religious creeds or ethnic identity and should be embraced by all to enhance greater public health.  

Consequently, NIFROP resolved that all its affiliates, partners and their sister-partners, as well as friends, will be activated to support the campaign by NPHCDA in helping to make sure the vaccine is taken by a majority of vulnerable citizens. 

We also recommended that all traditional and community leaders who are members of this inter-religious body also domesticate our message and campaign slogan of “Covid -19 Vaccine is Safe for Health and Life” in their respective domains and persuade subjects to key into it through adequate sensitization.  

The Headteachers and teachers of all schools owned by the various religious communities under our large umbrella also transform into automatic agents and carriers of the NIFROP-supported message of Covid-19, wherever they are domiciled in Nigeria. They should strategize on how to gently persuade their pupils and students into actively participating in the inoculation exercise.     

CONCLUSION

With the distribution and formal commencement of the Covid-19 vaccine inoculation exercise, we implore all Nigerians to be vigilant and report any act of impropriety or sharp practices by anybody to the nearest authority for appropriate actions. 

NIFROP is reminding every Nigerian that the Covid-19 vaccine immunization is free-of-charge to all Nigerians. Everyone should therefore resist the temptation of paying a kobo to be vaccinated. #TogetherLetsChaseCovid-19OutOfNigeria! 

Thank You.

ITF: Coalition passes vote of confidence on Ari, dismisses MURIC's nepotism allegation

The Coalition for Good Governance and Rule of Law (CGGRL) has passed a vote of confidence on the leadership of the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) under Sir Joseph Ari for entrenching transparency and accountability in operations. 

The group, at a press conference on Tuesday in Abuja, refuted the allegations of nepotism by the Muslims Rights Concern (MURIC) against the Executive Secretary, describing it as unsubstantiated and lacking in merit. 

In his address, National President /Convener, Comrade Isaac Ikpa, said the Muslim group, in its typical manner, is out to cause an unnecessary distraction in the operations of the agency in an attempt to malign Sari's character. 

According to Ikpa, MURIC mistook the ITF for a religious organisation where religious considerations should be the yardstick for employment as against experience, qualification and suitability. 

Ikpa noted that the ITF carries out its employment in line with the federal character principle, hence there is no iota of favouritism or nepotism as being speculated.

The coalition, however, urged the general public to disregard MURIC's statement for lacking in objectivity to cause unnecessary tension in the polity. 

Read the full statement below:

The leadership of the Coalition for Good Governance and Rule of Law welcomes you all to this press conference convoked to set the record straight with regards to the allegations of nepotism against the Executive Secretary of the Industrial Training Fund, Sir, Joseph Ari in the operations of the ITF in Nigeria. 

As a start, the allegation of nepotism in the ITF is an attempt by MURIC to cause an unnecessary distraction in the operations of the agency in an attempt to malign the character of the executive secretary, who has been reputed to have entrenched a regime of transparency and accountability in the operations of the ITF since he assumed office. 

The Coalition for Good Governance and Rule in its numerous engagements with Ministries, Departments, and Agencies in the country indeed finds it worrisome that MURIC would elect to turn the truth on its head in a most brazen and despicable manner. 

We are constrained to add our voice to this narrative for the fact that the allegations are unsubstantiated. The allegations are also lacking in merit because it is obvious from all indications that MURIC relied on hearsays before making its position known in the public space. 

MURIC for inexplicable reasons alleged that 487 staff employed by the Executive Secretary of ITF in 2019, only 90 were Muslims and that this is just 18.48 per cent, while Christians were 81.52 per cent.

This is not only uncharitable, it is also an indication that the leadership of MURIC is not in tune with reality and the operational structure of the ITF that emphasizes meritocracy due to the sensitivity of its operations. 

It is our considered view that MURIC mistook the ITF for a religious organization where religious considerations should be the yardstick for employment as against experience, qualifications, and suitability for the job. 

It's succinct to add that the Coalition for Good Governance and Rule of Law has on several occasions continuously tasked agencies of government on good governance and the rule of law and it is instructive to state that the ITF remains one of the agencies of government that has displayed a high level of compliance to the extant laws guiding its operations, including recruitment at all cadres. 

It is also on record that the ITF as an agency boast of a cosmopolitan workplace where there are mutual respect and understanding amongst staffer, all courtesy of the leadership style of the Executive Secretary, who is a known apostle of creating a level playing ground for all devoid of religious or ethnic considerations.   

We are also aware that the ITF Board is known to have carried out its employment in line with the federal character principle and there is no iota of favouritism or nepotism as being speculated. We believe that MURIC was misled into its hasty conclusion without carrying out a detailed investigation. We, therefore, implore a respected organization like MURIC to do some research before making public statements on petitions before it and will encourage MURIC to continue to carry out its roles as a respected civil society organization, or at the risk of been labelled as a tool for inciting religious tension in the country. 

We wish to inform MURIC, that the said recruitment exercise of 2019 followed all due processes and was coordinated by the Federal Character Commission, which even issued a letter of compliance to the ITF after the exercise. Unless MURIC wants to state that the Federal Character Commission as an organization is populated by Christians and responsible for giving backing to a supposed lopsided recruitment exercise. 

This is indeed a sad episode in the sense that the actions of MURIC are capable of misleading unsuspecting members of the general public into believing that the ITF is a religious intolerant organization and the attendant consequences in the polity. It consequently behoves MURIC to be circumspect in its public utterances especially on issues it is ignorant of in the interest of peace and stability in Nigeria.  

The Coalition for Good Governance and Rule of Law wishes to state that the ITF under the leadership of Sir, Joseph Ari has complied with all the necessary due process and we unanimously passed a vote of confidence on the leadership of the ITF. 

We are using this medium to call on members of the general public to kindly disregard the statement by MURIC for it is lacking in objectivity and meant to cause unnecessary tension in the polity. 

This is on the heels that under the leadership of Sir, Joseph Ari, the ITF has recorded tremendous success in its operations in fulfilment of its mandate to set, regulate training standards and provide need-based human capital development interventions using corps of highly competent professionals in line with global best practices.

We must all agree that the allegations of nepotism by MURIC remain a figment of the imagination and must be disregarded by all well-meaning Nigerians.

By Samson Aboh

By my estimation, patience is not merely one of life’s fusillade of virtues. It means much more than such simplistic conclusions to me. And maturing with each passing day, I devout considerable time to gauge the actions and postures of others before sketching conclusions or pinning down judgements from informed perspectives. Therefore, patience is an enabler of so many things to me as a person, like it does for some other deep philosophical thinkers.

I am one person who restrains comments on anything until the end is seen. I am never in a hurry because time illuminates more profoundly, the mysteries of life than the undependable euphoria or gains of ephemeral quick-actions, largely susceptible to errors in verdict.

Days have gradually rolled into weeks now. So, its good time to reflect on the erstwhile Chief of Army Staff (COAS) and foreman of Nigeria’s anti-insurgency operations, retired Lt. Gen. Tukur Yusuf Buratai, whom I fondly relish his acronym of TYB. He gloriously bowed out of active service of the Nigerian Military and specifically, the Nigerian Army in 2021.

I can boldly assert that TYB ended his years of active service to his fatherland at Nigeria’s most tormenting time of consuming national insecurity threats. But I believe, together with his able lieutenants, TYB gave his heart and soul to this national assignment until the last day he bowed out gracefully.

Whilst he served us, there were differing perspectives from a wide spectrum of Nigerians or even foreigners on their perception of his contribution to the global anti-terrorism wars. Some outrightly dismissed and belittled his efforts; others extolled and commended him glowingly.

But also observed to date, a clan of others who were simply apathetic, aloof or neutral to whatever transpired in the warfront when TYB supervised the counter-terrorism operations. They never burdened themselves with the horrors, perfections or imperfections in the frontlines. I see it as normal.

But I belong to a different league of Nigerians on this score. That is, those who preferred to see the end of TYB’s actions to the last blast of the whistle to better be armed and positioned to deduce valuable interpretations or postulate informed public commentary.

Therefore, I deliberately refused to comment on the stewardship of TYB when the stakes were high and the field actions still very explosive against Nigeria’s enemy forces in the battlefield. My preferred time and hour have come. It is now safe to discuss him without any fear of contradictions.

In 2015, I was fascinated by the unusual chants of accolades and cheers, which welcomed TYB as Nigeria’s fresh warlord against the obstinate and resilient Boko Haram insurgents and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists in the Northeast region. TYB, an infantry combatant was relatively unpopular among Nigerians at the time of his appointment as COAS.

He had spent the best part of his military career in the trenches, fighting wars within Nigeria or in the assignments of UN Peace Keeping Missions in Angola and elsewhere. In the later years, TYB buried himself in the creeks of Niger Delta fighting incendiary militants, vandals, and economic saboteurs bred by the region in order to exculpate Nigeria from their foothold.

He was the Field Commander of the Multi-National Joint Task Force (MNJTF), the multi-nation military outfit conceptualized by Nigeria, Niger, Chad, Cameroun and later on, Benin republic to battle terrorism in the sub-region. In all these assignments, TYB bagged medals and awards for his exemplary and excellent performances. It also earned him accelerated promotions in recognition of his exceptional military exploits and results.

I am aware, it was from the MNJTF assignment that TYB earned another promotion to the rank of Lieutenant General and President Muhammadu Buhari deemed him fit to head the Nigerian Army as the numero uno soldier and chief armour bearer of the country’s war against terrorism. This was when I started to silently monitor his leadership of both the Nigerian Army and the counter-insurgency operations.

Boko Haram terrorism was a nagging national nightmare to us at the time TYB was mandated to take charge of the war. The irrational, bizarre and bloodthirsty jihadists absolutely enslaved and caged Nigeria by its confounding atrocities. We moaned and grieved endlessly. The might and hold of the terrorists group on Nigeria was choking, something, I decoded as a breathless hold on the country, a metaphor akin to the fabled tale of the Afro-American, George Floyd.

The dire situation of the country’s security at that time created excitement in the Boko Haram insurgents’ ranks and their foreign sponsors in the Middle East were also elated. Boko Haram’s internal agents and sympathizers in Nigeria also jubilantly and publicly scoffed at Nigerians. We were at the cusp of surrendering the sovereignty of Nigeria to terrorists.

The overwhelming insecurity challenges in Nigeria were complicated by a weak, docile and unwilling Army which flinched at the battlefront in the face of enemy forces. TYB’s predecessor, Gen. Ihejirika confessed this much on the day of his formal handover to Gen. Buratai (rtd).

Meanwhile, we became a bleeding country; a nation which demonstrated by the actions of its Army that it was incompetent to battle Boko Haram insurgents and the other variegated sects of terrorism feasting on Nigeria. In truth, we shamefully genuflected before terrorists unapologetically.

We endlessly screamed in blood, pains, and sorrows each time terrorists struck us. No part of Northern Nigeria was safe either for habitation or conduct of legitimate business. Nigerians dreaded traversing the North on journeys, as the phobia of terrorists engulfed the land.

Our most agonizing moments was when they turned Abuja, the nation’s capital into a chamber of serial deaths. Scared Nigerians who took refuge in Abuja eventually discovered, the notion of security in the Federal capital was merely an illusion. Frequent bombings of public buildings, security formations, the UN office, motor parks, shopping malls, and churches in the suburbs of Abuja clearly defined our most terrorizing and agonizing existential times as a nation.

We whined uncontrollably and overtly. We were helpless, ostensibly, waiting for another sound of bomb explosion, the resultant casualties and destructions to kick another round of wailing. The jihadi campaigners terribly compromised national security.

In the Northeast region where Boko Haram controlled the five states of Borno, Adamawa, Yobe, Bauchi and Gombe, it was hell for Nigerians. No fewer than 21 LGAs were coercively seized and occupied by the terrorists in their quest for territorial expansion. The jihadists established their main Caliphate administrative center in Gwoza and other areas served as its subsidiaries. Emirs and other community leaders were either deposed or killed by the insurgents, who anointed their own leaders as replacements in the places they captured.

And over 20, 000 Nigerian hostages, including the Chibok schoolgirls were scattered in different locations of Boko Haram secret camps. I boldly admit now that the Northeast region was substantially closed to public or social life for dread of the atrocities of Boko Haram insurgents. We experienced insurgents gruesomely murder hundreds of Nigerians virtually every week in different locations.

Elsewhere in the Northwest, armed bandits, cattle rustlers and other armed criminal gangs unleashed a reign of terror on Nigerians and reigned like untouchable demigods. Whole villages were sacked; farmers were forced out of farm plantations; public markets, federal highways, schools and all which defined a meaningful life to the natives were shut down by the activities of bandits.

In the Southeast, incensed and armed IPOB criminal gangs, who camouflaged in the guise of secession agitations also imposed a reign of terror on people of the region. Arbitrary arrests and extra-judicial killings of innocent Nigerians; mass looting of public businesses and other criminalities committed by IPOB members ignited excessive conflagrations and wailings.

The Niger Delta militants were also a pain in the neck. They violently howled agitations for an independent “Niger Delta republic.” They blew up oil pipelines and other facilities, massively engaged in crude oil theft among other heinous crimes like kidnapping of foreigners. In Kaduna, ethno-religious crisis resonated in loud drums of war; just like in some states in the Middle Belt, where herdsmen/farmers skirmishes as well as communal clashes snatched peace and security, as hired mercenaries and ethnic militias became overlords.

TYB was faced with these daunting security challenges, with an Army with its internal problems which dampened morale. It stimulated rampant mutinies in the frontlines, “tactical withdrawal” at the battlefront; poor weaponry base, indiscipline, unprofessional conduct, disloyalty and unpatriotic posture of soldiers towards the counter-insurgency war.

It amazed me that TYB resolved the problems of soldiers within a short time and repositioned the Nigerian Army into a responsive and responsible institution alive to its constitutional responsibilities. Soldiers begun to face squarely the counter-insurgency operations; reclaiming all territories previously under the control of Boko Haram and halted the regime of bomb explosions in Abuja and other Northern cities and towns. Almost all the five states under Boko Haram have been rescued; thousands of Boko Haram captives have regained freedom.

TYB gallantly fought insurgents, bandits, terrorists, violent secessionists, armed militants, ethnic militias and other criminal gangs unflinchingly and to a standstill until the day, he bowed out of active military service.

More pleasurable to me were the TYB’s rare initiatives which transformed the Nigerian Army into an entirely new institution with his reforms and innovations. Nigerian Army today has new specialized Army schools; old and abandoned Army institutions have been revamped.

TYB returned Nigerian Army to its past glorious days of self-dependence where it manufactured some of its warfare equipment. The indigenous MRAP “Ezeugwu” war machine stands out distinctly as the conqueror of terrorists and protector of soldiers in the theatre of war in the Northeast. He visibly changed the narratives of the anti-insurgency combats in Nigeria progressively.

In fighting terrorism in Nigeria, TYB also established far reaching synergies with the Armies of other countries of the world both in the West African sub-region and foreign nations like India, Brazil, Bangladesh, Pakistan and so forth. Sensitive knowledge sharing and exchange of experiences on combating terrorism became a regular feature of his leadership. It accounted for his success in the anti-insurgency war.

I have no scintilla of doubt that TYB bowed out of military service, leaving Nigeria on a better anti-terrorism rating than he met it. His encounters and relationships with foreign countries, especially in the Francophone bloc would assist tremendously in his new assignment as Nigeria’s non-career ambassador.

It is my utmost conviction that Nigeria can better resolve its internal problems of insurgency, if the country strikes a strong diplomatic synergy with France and the francophone countries, most of which are our neighbours. Lt. Gen. TY Buratai (rtd) stands in good stead to anchor the Jise diplomatic relations between Nigeria and these francophone countries.

I am convinced that in the fullness of time, we will all agree that TYB was a man of the people. He really and whole heartedly fought terrorism while in active military service and poised to do it even better in retirement while on the diplomatic scene as an Ambassador.

Aboh wrote this piece from Federal University Lafia.

Group hails NPHCDA over arrival, distribution and administration of Covid-19 vaccines

The National Vanguard for Vaccine Administration and Advocacy (NVVAA) has commended the management of the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHCDA) for the seamless arrival, distribution and administration of coronavirus vaccines across the nation. 

The group, in a statement by its Secretary-General, Akor Oche, on Monday, said the agency has displayed a high sense of transparency and accountability so much so that Nigerians should expect the safety of the vaccines upon administration. 

Following the arrival of the first batch of Oxford AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccines in the country, the NPHCDA began the massive roll out on Friday with President Muhammadu Buhari and Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo subsequently receiving their first jabs. 

By setting up a website for Nigerians to register, the NVVAA noted that the health agency eradicated all forms of encumbrances that would have marred the successful rollout of the vaccines.  

The National Vanguard for Vaccine Administration and Advocacy, however, called on members of the general public to extend their support to the NPHCDA by disregarding the narratives against the suitability of the vaccine for humans. 

On its part, the group urged the NPHCDA not to relent in the task of ensuring that all Nigerians are vaccinated in the coming months. 

Read the full statement below:

The National Vanguard for Vaccine Administration and Advocacy is issuing this press statement to commend the management of the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHCDA) on the arrival and subsequent distribution and administration of the AstraZeneca COVID 19 Vaccine across the country. 

It is indeed commendable that the NPHCDA put in motion mechanisms that ensure that all states of the federation receive their doses of the vaccine in a timely and orderly manner that remains a disconnect from the norm whereby exercises such as this are always marred by poor logistics arrangements. 

The NPHCDA has by its actions in recent times displayed a high sense of transparency and accountability so much so that Nigerians should expect the safety of the vaccines upon administration. 

It is thus the considered opinion of the National Vanguard for Vaccine Administration and Advocacy that meeting the various timelines from the arrival to the country and its subsequent rollout is indicative of the sustainable efforts of the NPHCDA towards ensuring that the vaccines are safe for humans, as well as ensuring that there is an equitable distribution across the country. 

It is also commendable that the NPCHDA opened an online registration platform for Nigerians to register for vaccination. This is indeed an exemplary display of foresight by the management of the NPHCDA in the sense that it has successfully eradicated all forms of encumbrances that would have marred the successful rollout of the vaccines in Nigeria.  

The National Vanguard for Vaccine Administration and Advocacy calls on members of the general public to extend their support to the NPHCDA by disregarding the narratives against the suitability of the vaccine for humans. 

It also states that with the level of expertise displayed by the NPHCDA, Nigerians should be assured that there shall be equitable distribution of vaccines across the country and all Nigerians regardless of their status in the society shall be vaccinated in record time subject to availability. 

Nigerians are also enjoined to continue to support the efforts of the government towards ensuring that all Nigerians are vaccinated in the race to put COVID 19 behind us as quickly as possible. 

We also encourage the leadership of the NPHCDA not to relent in the task of ensuring that all Nigerians are vaccinated as the vaccines become available in large quantities in the coming months. 

The National Vanguard for Vaccine Administration and Advocacy as a critical stakeholder in the country is pledging its continuous support to the NPHCDA in ensuring that the vaccination programme is successfully implemented across the country. 

The NPHCDA has indeed displayed exemplary service to Nigeria and it behoves all mischief makers to desist from spreading negative information with regards to the safety of the COVID 19 vaccines been administered in Nigeria.

By Philip Agbese

One of Africa’s globally celebrated novelist and erudite scholar, Chinua Achebe spewed this timeless maxim in one of his novels; “The man of the people is not about Harvard or Cambridge degrees; but the man that speaks and understands the language of the people.” Achebe’s wisdom sparkles with a timeless relevance in leadership on the African continent and Nigeria today, just like yesterday when the words were uttered.

The Director-General (DG) National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brigadier General Shuaibu Ibrahim has indubitably discerned and applied the wisdom of Chinua Achebe wherever he has rendered service to his country. His admirable philosophy resonates in the extra premium he attaches to the people he serves. The NYSC boss is synonymous with selfless service and the development of others, a leadership trait, which hardly shadows in most Nigerian leaders.

Ibrahim, a pioneer Registrar of the Nigerian Army University, Biu is a famed Military historian, scholar, administrator, pragmatist, teacher, pacesetter, innovator and workaholic. He knows his leadership destination and how to excellently navigate his path to success. Ibrahim is a perfect example of one of Nigeria’s genuine and committed leaders.

When the ideal marksman for a job is located, it is easy to notice. Since Shuaibu Ibrahim, the Nasarawa state-born Army General sauntered on stage at NYSC headquarters Abuja, the shining ambience of performance has been inescapable and a cynosure of all eyes.

For the NYSC boss, his current assignment is merely the return to a familiar turf, having served as a Military Assistant (MA) to a former Director-General of the scheme years back. It implies, he has a vast knowledge and experience of the internal operations of the scheme, which has been converted to a rewarding leadership asset for the discharge of formidable service to young Nigerian graduates.

From North to South and from Sokoto to Bayelsa, NYSC members ululate in unanimous tongues their endearing delights and joys with Ibrahim’s persona in his barely two years leadership of the scheme. For the Nigerian youth corps members, Ibrahim is one unforgettable and outstanding administrator of the NYSC.

And like in the catchy aphorism of Achebe; the NYSC boss understands and speaks the language of the people. He does not dispense it from the prisms of bossiness; but the people are excited because he shadows in a unique servant-leader style for the present and future prosperity of the Nigerian youths.

The NYSC DG’s personage embodies a humane, kind-hearted, compassionate, loving and generous personality to a fault. He has a palpable and enduring affection for progress and development of the Nigerian youths. Barely weeks after his appointment in 2019, Brigadier Gen. Ibrahim’s instincts and passion for work manifested. He paid a surprise working visit to the NYSC’s Sagamu Permanent Orientation Camp, in Ogun state in the wee hours of the morning.

The NYSC boss inspected facilities at the camp to ensure they were up to a standard that can guarantee at least minimal comfort for corpers. He gave fatherly counsel on discipline and obedience to constituted authorities to the 2019 Batch B Stream One. But what amazed corp members most in the early morning visit by the NYSC boss was that he gifted various groups of the corps members with memorably fanciful gifts.

Ibrahim, a doctoral degree holder in history and a resourceful military researcher of repute is not a friend to failure. So, he launched a vigorous campaign to terminate the reign of temporary orientation camps for NYSC members as soon as he assumed office. He frowned at the subsisting practice of some states which have converted schools into camps.

Therefore, as part of his focus on welfare of corpers, he engaged State Governors still operating in temporary sites to build permanent, and standard NYSC Orientation Camps. Excitingly, the tide has started changing very rapidly, with NYSC permanent camps in almost 32 states of the federation now. In tandem with these campaigns, several states in the country with dilapidated structures in their Permanent Orientation Camps have had them renovated with upgraded facilities for the comfort of NYSC members.

Ibrahim has his mind fixated in attracting extra stipends for Corp members from all the states of the federation to complement what is uniformly paid all corpers by the Federal Government. He has worked assiduously to ensure; every State Government generally pays a token to corpers posted on national assignments in their respective states as incentive for the national service to fatherland.

And to smoothen the path, domesticate and deepen the campaigns, Gen. Ibrahim has persuaded and lured some Governors to crusade for better welfare for youth Corp members. The strategy is working rewardingly, as excited corpers in states that have complied endlessly glorify the NYSC boss.

Gen. Ibrahim is seen by by corpers and Nigerians as one NYSC DG, who immediately implemented a new Federal Government approved allowance for corps members, which stood at N30,000. But he also, magnanimously added an additional N3,000 on the FGN’s approved N30,000 per corper.

These welfare initiatives by Ibrahim are to provide an elaborate window for prudent serving corpers to save part of their allowances, which they could invest into productive ventures after the one-year mandatory service. It’s a very commendable philosophy and the best way of expressing fondness to secure the growth and development of young Nigerian graduates.

Also intricately linked to the welfare of serving NYSC members, Ibrahim has prioritized the security of corpers wherever they are posted in Nigeria for primary assignment. The NYSC boss is mindful of the pervading insecurities in some parts of the country and has adopted water-tight security strategies and administrative protection measures for corpers.

In Borno, like in other states, where insecurity as induced by Boko Haram insurgency is prevalent, the DG has given a standing order that no corper should be posted to volatile or potentially risky areas. He has sustained an evergreen collaboration with security agencies to ensure the safety, security of lives and property of corps members are neither threatened nor comprised in any circumstance.

To this end, the NYSC DG is very strict against night journeys by corpers and has consistently persuaded the sick to always report to the authorities for prompt medical attention by the handy Corps Medical Personnel of the scheme. He is also passionate about protection of female corpers from exploitation while serving the nation under the scheme. He has never failed to warn female corp members not to compromise their dignity and womanhood for gratifications and has contrived secret ways to monitor such blackmails which leads to abuses of the womenfolk either by NYSC staff or employers of corpers.

When the Coronavirus pandemic broke out in Nigeria and caused nationwide panic, Brigedier Gen. Ibrahim immediately swung into action to protect the beloved graduate children of Nigerians entrusted in his care. After a prolonged closure of NYSC camps; but the necessity to reopen them in order not to stagnate the future of Nigerian graduate youths, Gen. Ibrahim did the needful to secure the lives of the youths entrusted in his hands.

He immediately secured all NYSC orientation camps throughout the country by putting in place essential measures endorsed by the National Center for Disease Control (NCDC) to prevent Covid-19 from invading the camps. He traversed the country on surprise visits to ensure its implementation.

Instantly, NCDC officials were deployed to NYSC camps for testing of prospective corp members and the officials before admission into the orientation camps. Hand sanitizers and reduction in the number of admitted corpers for each stream of the orientation exercise; spacing of hostel beds in consonance with the prescribed physical distancing regulation, compulsory use of facemasks and all other ancillary protocols of Covid-19 were strictly enforced.

Undeniably, Gen. Ibrahim is demonstrating to youths of Nigeria a kind of special fatherly love, which those who passed through the scheme before now never had the luxury of the experience. Nigerian youth corp members are convinced and indeed, sing eulogies of the DG for a rare exhibition of leadership, which they have admitted as close to their hearts.

The NYSC DG speaks to corpers in a language they have clearly decoded. Only a few leaders in the ilk of Ibrahim are prodded to speak the language of the people in Nigeria. What has remained unique in Gen. Ibrahim’s leadership style is his mastery and implementation of the techniques capable of changing the life fortunes of Nigerian young graduates within a year of his encounter with them under the scheme.

Agbese is a human rights activist based in the United Kingdom.